{"id": "PMC5307612", "abstract": " Background: Timely access to cardiovascular health services is necessary to prevent heart damages. The present study examined inequality in geographical distribution of cardiovascular health services in Iran.   Methods: Present study is a cross-sectional study conducted using demographic data from all Iranian provinces (31 provinces) from 2012 census by the Statistics Center of Iran (SCI). The Gini coefficients of CCU beds and cardiologists were used to assess equality in access to cardiovascular health services in Iran. MS Excel software was used to calculate Gini coefficients.   Results: The proportions of CCU bed and cardiologist per 100,000 population were 4.88 and 1.27, respectively; also the Gini coefficients were 0.129 and 0.045, respectively.   Conclusion: Descriptive statistics showed a skewness in distribution of pubic cardiovascular health services in Iran, though Gini coefficient revealed no significant inequality. However, equal distribution of CCU beds and cardiovascular specialists does not mean they are sufficiently available in Iran. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/8d/mjiri-30-420.PMC5307612.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3022338", "abstract": "Objectives The optimal treatment of latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is not established. We explored whether early insulin treatment, which has shown beneficial effects in rodents and in human pilot studies, would result in better preservation of β-cell function or metabolic control, compared with conventional treatment. Subjects and methods Glucagon-stimulated C-peptide and HbAlc were evaluated at baseline and after 12, 24 and 36 months in 37 patients recently diagnosed with diabetes, aged ≥30 years, non-insulin-requiring and GADAb and/or ICA positive. Twenty patients received early insulin and 17 received conventional treatment (diet±oral hypoglycaemic agents (OHA), metformin, some and/or sulfonylurea) and insulin when necessary. Results Level of metabolic control, HbAlc, was preserved in the early insulin treated, while it significantly deteriorated in the conventionally treated. There was no significant difference between the groups in C-peptide after 12, 24 or 36 months, or in the decline of C-peptide. Only baseline C-peptide predicted a C-peptide of ≥0.5 nmol/l at 36 months. Gender, body mass index, antibody titres or HbAlc did not influence the levels of C-peptide or HbAlc at baseline or end-of-study, or the decline in C-peptide. Among the diet±OHA-treated, 5/17 (30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5f/09/PMC3022338.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4273596", "abstract": " Purpose. This work aims to study the problems encountered with and the different epidemiological features of patients with fungal keratitis. Patients and Methods. All cases with keratitis attending the Outpatient Clinic of Ophthalmology Department at Tanta University Hospital during three years from the first of January 2011 to the end of December 2013 were selected and carefully examined and cases with mycotic keratitis were further examined and investigated. Results. From 66303 attendants during this period with different complaints, there were 361 cases (0.54", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/54/43/PMC4273596.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4905285", "abstract": "We recently reported that depletion of p62 in the background of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression sensitizes mammary tumor cells to amino acid deprivation, abolishes cellular transformation in vitro, and suppresses mammary tumorigenesis in vivo. Extensive investigation on the underlying molecular mechanisms has revealed a multifaceted role for p62 in HER2-associated mammary tumorigenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/42/kmco-02-03-975035.PMC4905285.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5175027", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to examine depression and anxiety related arrhytmia risk in fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). METHODS: Fifty-nine patients with the diagnosis of FMS and 20 control participants were included in the study. Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), Visual Pain Scale (VPS) surveys were applied to determine the severity of the disease. Beck Anxiety (BAS) and Beck Depression scales (BDS) were applied to all participants. Electrocardiograms were obtained from all participants. P-wave dispersions (Pd) were estimated to determine the risk of the atrial arrhythmia, and QT wave dispersion (QTd) and corrected QT(QTdd) values were used to predict the risk of ventricular arrhythmia. RESULTS: BAS and BDS results were significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group (p˂0001). In the patient group, Pd was significantly longer (p=0.034). Other clinical, and demographic data did not differ significantly between groups. CONCLUSION: In this study, the risk of arrhythmia in FMS was evaluated and increased Pd in patients with FMS compared to the control group was detected. This finding shows increased risk of atrial fibrilation (AF) in patients with FMS. If we consider that patients with fibromyalgia consist relatively of young patients together with the increased risk of AF with age, it is important to follow-up these patients in later ages for AF risk.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/28/NCI-1-6.PMC5175027.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2592736", "abstract": "Gastrointestinal dysfunction is an intuitively important, yet descriptively elusive component of the multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Reintam and colleagues have attempted to quantify this dimension using a combination of intolerance of enteral feeding, and the development of intra-abdominal hypertension. While they show that both parameters are associated with an increased risk of death (and therefore that, in combination, the risk of death is even greater), they fall short in developing a novel descriptor of gastrointestinal dysfunction. Nonetheless, and even with its shortcomings, their effort is a welcome contribution to the surprisingly complex process of describing the morbidity of critical illness.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/13/9d/PMC2592736.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3259140", "abstract": "Lumbar spinal stenosis is a commonly treated with epidural injections of local anesthetics and corticosteroids, however, these therapies may relieve leg pain for weeks to months but do not influence functional status. Furthermore, the majority of patients report no substantial symptom change over the repeated treatment. Utilizing balloon catheters, we successfully treated with three patients who complained persistent symptoms despite repeated conventional steroid injections. Our results suggest that transforaminal decompression using a balloon catheter may have potential in the nonsurgical treatment of spinal stenosis by modifying the underlying pathophysiology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f8/ea/kjpain-25-55.PMC3259140.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3219446", "abstract": "We report a case of recurrent epiretinal membrane (ERM) after spontaneous resolution of an idiopathic ERM. A 65-year-old female demonstrated a spontaneous improvement in visual acuity from 0.1 to 1.2 in her left eye attributable to spontaneous resolution of idiopathic ERM due to posterior vitreous detachment. Thereafter, however, her visual acuity again decreased to 0.2 because of the recurrence of ERM. Her visual acuity improved to 0.8 after surgical removal. A microscopic examination of the excised specimen showed a characteristic undulating internal limiting membrane (ILM) and a continuous sheet of cells overlying the inner surface of the ILM. This case report illustrates that although spontaneous ERM resolution is rare, there is a possibility of recurrence even after spontaneous ERM resolution.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/a2/cop0002-0055.PMC3219446.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2775856", "abstract": "To investigate the gender difference of early symptoms appearing before the onset of the psychotic symptoms in patients with first-episode schizophrenia, we reviewed the medical records of 63 patients (38 males, 25 females), who were hospitalized for first-episode schizophrenia. The frequency and duration of prodromal and psychotic symptoms, Clinical Global Impression scale scores, Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale scores at admission, and other clinical characteristics were recorded for all patients. Overall, the most common prodromal symptoms were attenuated positive symptoms (89", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6a/f8/jkms-24-1083.PMC2775856.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3200069", "abstract": "Squamous cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis is a rare neoplasm, often unsuspected clinically due to its rarity and ambiguous clinical and radiological features, and hence patients present at advanced stages resulting in poor prognosis. We report here four cases of incidentally diagnosed primary renal squamous cell carcinoma, treated at our hospital over a short span of one year, and review the relevant literature. Mean age of the patients (3 males, 1 female) was 60 years. All suffered from staghorn stones. Interestingly, renal carcinoma was unsuspected clinically in all patients. In one case, a computerised tomography scan showed a suspicious nodule. All underwent nephrectomy for nonfunctioning kidney. In just two cases, tumor was identified on gross examination, while the other two only showed thickened pelvis. Our series emphasises the need for pelvicalyceal biopsy during treatment for long-standing nephrolithiasis, and thorough sampling of the renal pelvis in nephrectomy specimen of such patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a3/a7/PMC3200069.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3139536", "abstract": "Objective: This study aimed to compare the glucose-lowering effect and glycemic variability of insulin glargine with those of insulin detemir. Material and methods: This was an open-label, single-center, randomized, two-way crossover study in patients with diabetes on basal-bolus insulin therapy, with neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin as basal insulin. Patients switched from NPH insulin to a course either of insulin glargine followed by insulin detemir, or insulin detemir followed by insulin glargine, continuing the same dose of the prior bolus of insulin. To evaluate the glucose-lowering effect, daily glycemic profiles were recorded for 72 hours by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in an outpatient setting. The mean amplitude of glycemic excursions, standard deviation (SD), and the mean of daily difference (MODD) were used to assess intraday and day-to-day glycemic variability. Results: Eleven patients were enrolled and nine completed the study. Mean blood glucose calculated from CGM values was significantly lower with insulin glargine compared with insulin detemir (9.6 ± 2.4 mmol/L versus 10.4 ± 2.8 mmol/L, P = 0.038). The SD was significantly lower with insulin glargine versus insulin detemir (2.5 ± 0.9 mmol/L vs 3.5 ± 1.6 mmol/L, P = 0.011). The MODD value was significantly lower with insulin glargine than with insulin detemir (2.2 ± 1.1 mmol/L vs 3.6 ± 1.7 mmol/L, P = 0.011). There was no significant difference between the two insulin analogs in terms of hypoglycemia. Conclusion: This study suggests that insulin glargine leads to more effective and more stable glycemic control than the same dose of insulin detemir.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/e9/PMC3139536.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4466004", "abstract": "Human and mouse skin accumulate senescent cells in both the epidermis and dermis during aging. When chronically present, senescent cells are thought to enhance the age-dependent deterioration of the skin during extrinsic and intrinsic aging. However, when transiently present, senescent cells promote optimal wound healing. Here, we review recent studies on how senescent cells and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) contribute to different physiological and pathophysiological conditions in the skin with a focus on some of the cell autonomous and non-autonomous functions of senescent cells in the context of skin aging and wound healing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/2c/PMC4466004.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2669292", "abstract": "Antibody mediated therapeutic strategies against human malignant tumors have been widely authorized and clinically applied to cancer patients. In order to develop methods to generate antibodies reactive to the extracellular domains of multipass plasma membrane proteins specifically expressed in malignant tumors, we examined the use of dendritic cells (DCs) for immunization. DCs were transduced with genes encoding the human six transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 1 (STEAP1), STEAP4, and seven transmembrane prostate specific G-protein coupled receptor (PSGR). Mice were immunized with these DCs and followed by repeated booster immunization with plasmids expressing each protein. The immunized mice produced significant amounts of antibodies against these proteins. Our results suggest that DC immunization is an effective method to produce antibodies reactive to extracellular regions of plasma membrane proteins with multiple-transmembrane domains, and may be useful to develop antibody mediated antitumor therapies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/95/97/PMC2669292.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4765001", "abstract": "Heritable ectopic mineralization disorders represent a phenotypically diverse group of conditions characterized by deposition of calcium phosphate complexes in soft connective tissues. The prototype of such conditions is pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE), and related conditions with overlapping clinical features include generalized arterial calcification of infancy (GACI) and arterial calcification due to CD73 deficiency (ACDC). Molecular genetic investigations have revealed mutations in the genes physiologically involved in generation of inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi) and phosphate (Pi), and the findings suggest a unifying pathomechanism relating to reduced PPi/Pi ratio. This hypothesis is based on the notion that PPi serves as a powerful inhibitor of mineralization while Pi is a pro-mineralization factor, and an appropriate PPi/Pi ratio is critical for prevention of ectopic mineralization under homeostatic conditions. PXE International, the premiere patient support organization, advocating on behalf of patients and families with PXE, sponsors regular research meetings evaluating the progress in this and related ectopic mineralization disorders. The latest meetings were held in September 2014 in Bethesda, MD and in September 2015 in Budapest, Hungary. This report summarizes the latest progress in research on PXE and related ectopic mineralization disorders, based on presentations and discussions in these meetings, with pharmacologic implications for currently intractable disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c7/a8/PMC4765001.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2817877", "abstract": "A novel filamentous fungus strain designated RB-1 was isolated into pure culture from Japanese rice field soil through an anaerobic role tube technique. The strain is a mitosporic fungus that grows in both aerobic and strict anaerobic conditions using various mono-, di-, tri-, and polysaccharides with acetate and ethanol productions. The amount of acetate produced was higher than that of ethanol in both aerobic and anaerobic cultures. The characteristic verrucose or punctuate conidia of RB-1 closely resembled those of some strains of the genus Thermomyces, a thermophilic or mesophilic anamorphic ascomycete. However, based on phylogenetic analysis with the small subunit (SSU) and large subunit (LSU) rDNA sequences, RB-1 was characterized as a member of the class Lecanoromycetes of the phylum Ascomycota. Currently, RB-1 is designated as an anamorphic ascomycete and is phylogenetically considered an incertae sedis within the class Lecanoromycetes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/34/bf/PMC2817877.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4498843", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Deferasirox, represents an effective iron chelator drug in lower risk myelodysplastic syndromes. Reduction in oxidative stress is responsible of the hematologic improvement but further explanation may impact on its benefit. Biological and clinical studies are necessary to better define mechanisms of action, assess toxicities, and predicting factors of response.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/06/01/ccr30003-0361.PMC4498843.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3259522", "abstract": "Precursor B-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (B-LBL) is an uncommon high-grade neoplasm of immature B cells. It occurs predominantly in childhood with extranodal involvement such as skin and bone. Therefore, primary cutaneous involvement in elderly adults is a very rare manifestation of B-LBL. Here, we report a 78-year-old man with B-LBL presenting as a single cutaneous lesion which was immunohistochemically positive for leukocyte common antigen (LCA), CD79a, paired box 5 (PAX5), B cell lymphoma-2 (bcl-2), and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) staining, but was without systemic involvement. The patient was treated using cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, vincristine, and prednisolone (CHOP), and achieved complete response (CR) at the first response assessment conducted after 3 CHOP cycles. After an additional cycle of CHOP treatment, radiotherapy was administered at a total dose of 3,600 cGy over 4 weeks. At the 21-month follow-up, he had maintained CR.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/0e/kjh-46-283.PMC3259522.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3662463", "abstract": "Background The harmful effects of medication and licit substance use during pregnancy may potentially constitute a major public health concern. Our study aims to assess risky exposure of Lebanese pregnant women to drugs, tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol, and to determine their effect on postnatal outcomes. Methods Women at term were addressed after delivery in five university hospitals of Beirut and Mount Lebanon between February and June 2012. A standardized questionnaire was administered to them. Moreover, medical files of both mothers and their respective newborns were checked to confirm information given by mothers, and to assess the health outcome of the babies. Results Among the interviewed 350 women, active and passive smoking of tobacco (cigarette or water pipe), and consumption of category C, D, and X drugs were common during pregnancy in Lebanon; they were shown to negatively affect the neonatal outcome in multivariate analyses: they significantly decreased Apgar scores and increased the risk of underweight and medical complications of babies (P < 0.05). Conclusion Our study demonstrated that Lebanese women were exposed during pregnancy to multiple medications and licit substances that affected the neonates’ health. Our findings have implications for clinical obstetric practice and prevention programs in Lebanon. Efforts should be made to decrease exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/76/8b/PMC3662463.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3556558", "abstract": "Renal cell carcinoma is an uncommon source of bladder metastases. Here we report a case of renal cell carcinoma that metastasized to the bladder. A 73-year-old woman complained of gross hematuria. Abdominopelvic computerized tomography showed a bladder mass and a heterogenous enhancing mass in the lower pole of the left kidney with left vein thrombosis. The pathological analysis of the resected bladder specimen revealed metastatic renal cell carcinoma of the clear cell type.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/99/kju-54-69.PMC3556558.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4533028", "abstract": "Background: Hepatitis E Virus (HEV), a zoonotic pathogen, uses several species of animal as reservoirs. Swine is considered as the major reservoir for HEV infection in humans. Genotype 4 HEV is the dominant cause of hepatitis E disease in humans in China. Objectives: Although many researches revealed that genotype 4 HEV is the main genotype that prevalent in eastern China, few researches have done to study the subtype of HEV in this area. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the subtype of HEV prevalent in eastern China. Materials and Methods: A total of 125 anti-HEV IgM positive human serum and 290 swine fecal samples were subjected to reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) screening of HEV RNA. Positive PCR products were sequenced and phylogenetically analyzed. Results: From a total of 125 human serum samples, 19.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/df/57/hepatmon-15-06-25367.PMC4533028.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3485825", "abstract": "“Are Chimpanzees synaesthetic?” An affirmative answer to this question appeared recently in a Nature commentary on a study by Ludwig, Adachi, and Matzuzawa that demonstrated crossmodal correspondences in both chimpanzees and humans. Here we question the claim that chimpanzees are synaesthetic. We also question the claim that certain crossmodal correspondences are innate. We suggest an alternative account for the crossmodal correspondence between auditory pitch and visual lightness in terms of the internalization of correlations present in the environment. We highlight the limitations of such natural correlation approaches to the study of crossmodal correspondences as well as how such claims could potentially be tested in future research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/44/i-perception-3-316.PMC3485825.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4877467", "abstract": "Background Acute respiratory infection plays an important role in hospitalization of children in developing countries; detection of viral causes in such infections is very important. The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common etiological agent of viral lower respiratory tract infection in children, and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is associated with both upper and lower respiratory tract infections among infants and children. Objectives This study evaluated the frequency and seasonal prevalence of hMPV and RSV in hospitalized children under the age of five, who were admitted to Aliasghar children’s hospital of Iran University of Medical Sciences from March 2010 until March 2013. Patients and Methods Nasopharyngeal or throat swabs from 158 hospitalized children with fever and respiratory distress were evaluated for RSV and hMPV RNA by the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Results Among the 158 children evaluated in this study, 49 individuals (31.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d5/be/jjm-09-03-32974.PMC4877467.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3724133", "abstract": "Purpose The aim of this study is to describe the management of cataract and refractory glaucoma in a case of congenital aniridia (AN)-1. Methods In an 18-year-old female patient affected by congenital AN, bilateral coloboma of the zonula and lens, cataract and glaucoma, pars plana vitrectomy, cataract extraction and subsequent transcorneal ciliary body argon laser photocoagulation were performed. Results Five years after laser treatment, the best-corrected visual acuity was 20/50 and the intraocular pressure was stable at 18 mm Hg with topical pharmacological management consisting of timolol 0.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4c/0b/cop-0004-0044.PMC3724133.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4176405", "abstract": "Objective The pathophysiology of migraine with aura is thought to be related to cortical spreading depression and cortical hypersensitivity, in which inhibitory interneurons may play a role. Persistent migraine aura (PMA) without infarction is defined as auras that last longer than 1 week in the absence of infarction. We describe a case of persistent aura with a small occipital cortical infarction and discuss implications of this case and PMA for pathophysiological concepts of migrainous auras. Methods We present a case and discuss the implications for pathophysiological concepts. Results The case presented cannot be diagnosed as PMA as the patient was found to have an occipital cortical infarction with hypoactivity on fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography. Nevertheless, the patient suffered from persistent aura (with infarction). We argue that the infarction may have been responsible for an increased imbalance in one of the primary visual cortex networks that was already hyperexcitable due to the migraine aura condition. Conclusion PMA with occipital infarction has not been reported previously. We believe the findings of the present case and PMA cases reported in the past may support the intracortical disinhibition hypothesis in migraine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/31/dd/crn-0006-0217.PMC4176405.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4198764", "abstract": "Purpose To assess the long-term follow-up results of laparoscopic pyeloplasty for ureteropelvic junction obstruction. Materials and Methods Sixty-five patients (mean age, 43.8 years) who underwent standard laparoscopic pyeloplasty by transperitoneal approaches were enrolled in this study. The chief complaint was flank pain (n=57 patients); the remaining cases were detected incidentally. Twenty-three patients had undergone previous abdominal surgeries, including open pyeloplasty and endopyelotomy. Mean stricture length was 1.06 cm. Grade 3/4 and 4/4 hydronephrosis was detected in 36 and 14 patients, respectively. An obstructive pattern was present on the renal scan in 53 patients (81.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f3/f6/kju-55-656.PMC4198764.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2734025", "abstract": "Pfeiffer Syndrome is as rare as Apert syndrome in the Western population. This condition is very rare in the Asian population and has not been previously reported in Korea. The authors report with a review of literature the case of a newborn baby with Pfeiffer syndrome, manifested by bicoronal craniosynostosis, broad thumbs, and big toes. The infant also had bilateral syndactyly of the fingers and toes, mild proptosis, choanal hypoplasia and maxillary hypoplasia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/6b/jkms-21-374.PMC2734025.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4439495", "abstract": "Insulin resistance and a progressive decline in functional β-cell mass are hallmarks of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Thus, searching for natural, low-cost compounds to target these two defects could be a promising strategy to prevent the pathogenesis of T2D. Here, we show that dietary intake of flavonol kaempferol (0.05", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f1/3e/PMC4439495.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3514485", "abstract": "Malignant mesenchymalneoplasms of the gallbladder are extremely rare with only 105 cases of primary gallbladder sarcoma having been described. It has a very aggressive behavior and is usually diagnosed at advanced stages. Therefore, curative surgical management may not be possible. We performed a radical cholecystectomy (S4b + S5 segmentectomy), omentectomy and small bowel resection in a 54-year-old patient with locally invasive leiomyosarcoma of the gallbladder. Further studies are needed to confirm the benefit of aggressive treatment for patients with leiomyosarcoma of the gallbladder.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/88/jkss-83-403.PMC3514485.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1761422", "abstract": "The AthaMap database generates a map of cis-regulatory elements for the whole Arabidopsis thaliana genome. This database has been extended by new tools to identify common cis-regulatory elements in specific regions of user-provided gene sets. A resulting table displays all cis-regulatory elements annotated in AthaMap including positional information relative to the respective gene. Further tables show overviews with the number of individual transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) present and TFBS common to the whole set of genes. Over represented cis-elements are easily identified. These features were used to detect specific enrichment of drought-responsive elements in cold-induced genes. For identification of co-regulated genes, the output table of the colocalization function was extended to show the closest genes and their relative distances to the colocalizing TFBS. Gene sets determined by this function can be used for a co-regulation analysis in microarray gene expression databases such as Genevestigator or PathoPlant. Additional improvements of AthaMap include display of the gene structure in the sequence window and a significant data increase. AthaMap is freely available at .", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/af/52/gkl1006.PMC1761422.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3272829", "abstract": "There is an urgent need for early diagnosis in medicine, whereupon effective treatments could prevent irreversible tissue damage. The special structure of the eye provides a unique opportunity for noninvasive light-based imaging of ocular fundus vasculature. To detect endothelial injury at the early and reversible stage of adhesion molecule upregulation, some novel imaging agents that target retinal endothelial molecules were generated. In vivo molecular imaging has a great potential to impact medicine by detecting diseases or screening disease in early stages, identifying extent of disease, selecting disease and patient-specific therapeutic treatment, applying a directed or targeted therapy, and measuring molecular-specific effects of treatment. Current preclinical findings and advances in instrumentation such as endoscopes and microcatheters suggest that these molecular imaging modalities have numerous clinical applications and will be translated into clinical use in the near future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d9/3c/PMC3272829.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2827703", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Individuals with sensorineural hearing loss are often able to regain some lost auditory function with the help of hearing aids. However, hearing aids are not able to overcome auditory distortions such as impaired frequency resolution and speech understanding in noisy environments. The coexistence of peripheral hearing loss and a central auditory deficit may contribute to patient dissatisfaction with amplification, even when audiological tests indicate nearly normal hearing thresholds. OBJECTIVE This study was designed to validate the effects of a formal auditory training program in adult hearing aid users with mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss. METHODS Fourteen bilateral hearing aid users were divided into two groups: seven who received auditory training and seven who did not. The training program was designed to improve auditory closure, figure-to-ground for verbal and nonverbal sounds and temporal processing (frequency and duration of sounds). Pre- and post-training evaluations included measuring electrophysiological and behavioral auditory processing and administration of the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB) self-report scale. RESULTS The post-training evaluation of the experimental group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in P3 latency, improved performance in some of the behavioral auditory processing tests and higher hearing aid benefit in noisy situations (p-value < 0,05). No changes were noted for the control group (p-value <0,05). CONCLUSION The results demonstrated that auditory training in adult hearing aid users can lead to a reduction in P3 latency, improvements in sound localization, memory for nonverbal sounds in sequence, auditory closure, figure-to-ground for verbal sounds and greater benefits in reverberant and noisy environments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e0/c4/PMC2827703.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4838595", "abstract": "The genets of Suillus granulatus in a Pinus strobus stand (13 m × 60 m) were identified using random amplified polymorphic DNA molecular markers and the DNA of mushrooms that fruited for two years, and variations in genet size and distribution were analyzed. From a total of 116 mushrooms, 73 genets were identified and were grouped into three locations. The genets of mushrooms in close proximity differed from each other. The genet sizes varied at any of the three locations. The lengths of the identified genets in the pine stand ranged from 0.09 to 2.90 m. The average number of mushrooms per genet was 1.2 to 2.3, and the percentage of genets that were represented by a single mushroom was 44", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f4/af/mb-44-7.PMC4838595.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4418004", "abstract": "Interferon- (IFN-) γ is an essential cytokine for immunity against intracellular pathogens and cancer. IFN-γ expression by CD4 T lymphocytes is observed only after T helper (Th) 1 differentiation and there are several studies about the molecular mechanisms that control Ifng expression in these cells. However, naïve CD8 T lymphocytes do not produce large amounts of IFN-γ, but after TCR stimulation there is a progressive acquisition of IFN-γ expression during differentiation into cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and memory cells, which are capable of producing high levels of this cytokine. Differential gene expression can be regulated from the selective action of transcriptional factors and also from epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA CpG methylation or posttranslational histone modifications. Recently it has been recognized that epigenetic modification is an integral part of CD8 lymphocyte differentiation. This review will focus on the chromatin status of Ifng promoter in CD8 T cells and possible influences of epigenetic modifications in Ifng gene and conserved noncoding sequences (CNSs) in regulation of IFN-γ production by CD8 T lymphocytes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/11/60/PMC4418004.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3990150", "abstract": " Blue Rubber Bleb Nevus Syndrome is a rare disorder that is characterized by multiple recurrent vascular malformations of skin and gastrointestinal tract. The affected patients may present with diverse manifestations including iron deficiency anemia.   We report this syndrome in a 22-year-old man that was referred to our hospital for iron deficiency anemia with unknown cause and vascular malformations in the skin and gastrointestinal tract. Because of stable hemoglobin level, we decided to treatment him by iron supplementation and close follow up. We report this case along with a review of literature. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/63/60/mejdd-5-235.PMC3990150.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3219477", "abstract": "Concurrence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare condition that is challenging to diagnosis, due to the relatively high prevalence of autoantibodies in NASH. It is also difficult to determine the most effective treatment as corticosteroids are likely to worsen NASH despite being effective in the treatment of AIH. In this case report, we present a female diagnosed with NASH-AIH overlap with accompanying diabetes mellitus, who successfully achieved normalization of serum alanine aminotransferase levels following prednisolone therapy and weight loss. A follow-up liver biopsy performed 40 months after the initial diagnosis showed only minimal inflammatory infiltrates in the portal area without any NASH histology. Resolution of NASH, in conjunction with a reduction in hepatic fibrosis, might suggest that prednisolone itself does not aggravate steatohepatitis, but rather prevents disease progression. Appropriate immunosuppressive treatment may therefore be an important component of the optimum therapy for NASH-AIH overlap.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/14/crg0005-0553.PMC3219477.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4838788", "abstract": " Objectives. To assess the extent to which new primary healthcare (PHC) models implemented in two regions of Quebec have improved patient experience of care, unmet needs, and use of services for individuals with and without chronic diseases, compared with other forms of PHC practices. Methods. In 2005 and 2010, we carried out population and organization surveys. We divided PHC organizations into new model practices and other practices and followed the evolution over time of patient experience of care. Results. Patients with chronic diseases had better accessibility but worse continuity of care in the new model practices than in the other practices at both time periods. Through the reform, accessibility decreased evenly in both groups, but continuity and perceived outcomes improved more in the other practices. Use of primary care services decreased more in the new model practices. Among patients without chronic disease, accessibility decreased much less in the new models and responsiveness increased more. There was no significant change in ER attendance and hospitalization. Conclusion. The evolution of patient experience of care has been more favorable for patients without chronic diseases. These findings raise concerns about equity since the aim of the PHC reform was targeting in priority individuals with the greatest needs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/33/PMC4838788.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3267536", "abstract": "In this case report, we describe a case of adult-onset bulbar ptosis in a patient with Joubert syndrome. Joubert syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder with malformations in cerebellum and brainstem. Many ocular abnormalities have been noted in Joubert syndrome, but the association of this syndrome with adult-onset ptosis has not been described to date. This 24-year-old Joubert patient developed a cerebrospinal fluid cyst in her midbrain. She had signs of bilateral third nerve palsy and abducens palsy in the left eye. The bilateral central third nerve palsy causing functional blindness secondary to severe bilateral levator palsy was treated successfully with silicone sling frontalis suspension, as the seventh nerve nucleus was not involved.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9d/09/PMC3267536.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4897078", "abstract": " Objective. A systematic scoping review of the literature to identify functional performance tests and patient reported outcomes for patients who undergo anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and rehabilitation that are used in clinical practice and research during the last decade. Methods. A literature search was conducted. Electronic databases used included Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, PEDro, and AMED. The inclusion criteria were English language, publication between April 2004 and April 2014, and primary ACL reconstruction with objective and/or subjective outcomes used. Two authors screened the selected papers for title, abstract, and full-text in accordance with predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The methodological quality of all papers was assessed by a checklist of the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). Results. A total of 16 papers were included with full-text. Different authors used different study designs for functional performance testing which led to different outcomes that could not be compared. All papers used a measurement for quantity of functional performance except one study which used both quantity and quality outcomes. Several functional performance tests and patient reported outcomes were identified in this review. Conclusion. No extensive research has been carried out over the past 10 years to measure the quality of functional performance testing and control stability of patients following ACL reconstruction. However this study found that the measurement of functional performance following ACL reconstruction consisting of a one-leg hop for a set distance or a combination of different hops using limb symmetry index (LSI) was a main outcome parameter of several studies. A more extensive series of tests is suggested to measure both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of functional performance after the ACL reconstruction. The KOOS and the IKDC questionnaires are both measures that are increasingly being used for ACL reconstruction throughout the last decade.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/17/f4/PMC4897078.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5129124", "abstract": "Right ventricular (RV) pacing has been reported to result in ventricular dyssynchrony, heart failure, and increased mortality. Pacing associated deterioration of left ventricular (LV) systolic function has been termed pacing-induced cardiomyopathy (PICM). While upgrading to biventricular pacing (BiVP) is an effective therapy for PICM, permanent His-bundle pacing (HBP) can be a physiological alternative to BiVP. We present a patient with PICM who responded dramatically to permanent HBP.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/9f/main.PMC5129124.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4736847", "abstract": "Background: It has been reported that several baseline polymorphisms of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) agents resistance-associated variants (RAVs) would affect the treatment outcomes of patients chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (CHC). The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of DAAs RAVs in treatment-naïve GT1b CHC patients. Methods: Direct sequencing and ultra-deep sequencing of the HCV NS3, NS5A, and NS5B gene were performed in baseline serum samples of treatment-naïve patients infected with genotype 1b hepatitis C virus (HCVs). Results: One hundred and sixty CHC patients were studied. Complete sequence information was obtained for 145 patients (NS3), 148 patients (NS5A), and 137 patients (NS5B). Treatment-failure associated variants of DAAs were detected: 56.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/22/CMJ-128-2625.PMC4736847.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3352504", "abstract": "The evolutionary processes that have enabled Bos taurus cattle to establish around the globe are at the core to the future success of livestock production. Our study focuses on the history of cattle domestication including the last 60 years of B. taurus breeding programmes in both favourable and unfavourable environments and its consequences on evolution and fitness of cattle. We discuss the emergence of ‘production diseases’ in temperate production systems and consider the evolutionary genetics of tropical adaptation in cattle and conclude that the Senepol, N'Dama, Adaptaur and Criollo breeds, among others with similar evolutionary trajectories, would possess genes capable of improving the productivity of cattle in challenging environments. Using our own experimental evidence from northern Australia, we review the evolution of the Adaptaur cattle breed which has become resistant to cattle tick. We emphasize that the knowledge of interactions between genotype, environment and management in the livestock systems will be required to generate genotypes for efficient livestock production that are both economically and environmentally sustainable. Livestock producers in the 21st century will have less reliance on infrastructure and veterinary products to alleviate environmental stress and more on the animal's ability to achieve fitness in a given production environment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/58/PMC3352504.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4321648", "abstract": "Purpose Physical exercises are employed as part of the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); however information regarding cardiac autonomic modulation after an acute session of resistance exercise (RE) is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardiac autonomic modulation, via heart rate variability after an acute session of RE applied at different intensities in COPD patients. Patients and methods Twelve COPD patients underwent an acute session of RE with an intensity of 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/34/copd-10-223.PMC4321648.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3059872", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe the probable mechanism of the volume increase of laparoscopically harvested omentum flaps used to treat breast deformities. METHODS: A histological analysis of omentum samples was performed to study the volume increase of laparoscopically harvested omentum flaps. Samples were harvested immediately after the transposition of the omentum from the abdominal cavity to the breast region and during the second surgical procedure for breast symmetrization of eight patients submitted to the transposition of the omentum flap. Changes in the morphometric measurements of the adipocytes (perimeter, diameter, and area), microvascular density (as measured by the CD31 endothelial marker), and immunohistochemical expression of VEGF were documented. RESULTS: The increases in adipocyte size and microvascular density were statistically significant (P ≤ 0.012). The expression levels of VEGF were lower in the second set of samples when compared to the first set, but the differences were not statistically significant (P < 0.093). CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate an increase in cellular volume as measured by adipocyte perimeter, diameter, and area. Moreover, the increase in the number of vessels in the second set of samples suggests that neoangiogenesis was stimulated by the initial increase in VEGF expression levels observed in the first set of samples. The increase in VEGF expression in the flap may have been caused by adipocyte hypertrophy resulting from neoangiogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ba/e9/cln-66-02-307.PMC3059872.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3236710", "abstract": "Purpose Previous reports have identified noninfectious uveitis as a potential sequela following both intravitreal bevacizumab and ranibizumab injections. We present two unique cases of acute anterior uveitis following intravitreal bevacizumab that did not occur with subsequent ranibizumab injections. Methods Case report. Conclusion These cases may reflect differences in the etiology of anterior uveitis following intravitreal bevacizumab and ranibizumab. Given these differences, it may be reasonable to offer ranibizumab to patients who have experienced presumed bevacizumab-induced anterior uveitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a1/47/PMC3236710.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4242940", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study investigated to determine whether the Sideways Stepping Test (SST) is a useful test to detect unilateral vestibular hypofunction (UVH). [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-eight subjects including both male and females between the ages of 25 and 55 who had been diagnosed with UVH were recruited for the study. All the subjects were tested with the SST and followed by the head-shaking nystagmus (HSN) test using video electronystagmography (VENG) to confirm the presence of UVH. The results of both tests were then compared with each other to determine the correlation, sensitivity, and specificity. [Results] The results showed that the SST is strongly correlated with the gold standard HSN test using VENG and is highly sensitive and specific. [Conclusion] The present study showed that the SST is a highly valid test that can be used as an alternative method to the gold standard HSN test using VENG in detecting UVH.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/64/39/jpts-26-1719.PMC4242940.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3038631", "abstract": "The term cardiorenal syndrome refers to the interaction between the heart and the kidney in disease and encompasses five distinct types according to the initial site affected and the acute or chronic nature of the injury. Type 4, or chronic renocardiac syndrome, involves the features of chronic renal disease (CKD) leading to cardiovascular injury. There is sufficient epidemiologic evidence linking CKD with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The underlying pathophysiology goes beyond the highly prevalent traditional cardiovascular risk burden affecting renal patients. It involves CKD-related factors, which lead to cardiac and vascular pathology, mainly left ventricular hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, and vascular calcification. Risk management should consider both traditional and CKD-related factors, while therapeutic interventions, apart from appearing underutilized, still await further confirmation from large trials.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7d/07/PMC3038631.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3485523", "abstract": "Protein clearance is critical for the maintenance of the integrity of neuronal cells, and there is accumulating evidence that in most—if not all—neurodegenerative disorders, impaired protein clearance fundamentally contributes to functional and structural alterations eventually leading to clinical symptoms. Dysfunction of protein clearance leads to intra- and extraneuronal accumulation of misfolded proteins and aggregates. The pathological hallmark of Lewy body disorders (LBDs) is the abnormal accumulation of misfolded proteins such as alpha-synuclein (Asyn) and amyloid-beta (Abeta) in a specific subset of neurons, which in turn has been related to deficits in protein clearance. In this paper we will highlight common intraneuronal (including autophagy and unfolded protein stress response) and extraneuronal (including interaction of neurons with astrocytes and microglia, phagocytic clearance, autoimmunity, cerebrospinal fluid transport, and transport across the blood-brain barrier) protein clearance mechanisms, which may be altered across the spectrum of LBDs. A better understanding of the pathways underlying protein clearance—in particular of Asyn and Abeta—in LBDs may result in the identification of novel biomarkers for disease onset and progression and of new therapeutic targets.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/ee/PMC3485523.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3679671", "abstract": "Use of genetically modified mice enhances our understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying several neurological disorders such as a spinal cord injury (SCI). Freehand manual control used to produce a laceration model of SCI creates inconsistent injuries often associated with a crush or contusion component and, therefore, a novel technique was developed. Our model of cervical laceration SCI has resolved inherent difficulties with the freehand method by incorporating 1) cervical vertebral stabilization by vertebral facet fixation, 2) enhanced spinal cord exposure, and 3) creation of a reproducible laceration of the spinal cord using an oscillating blade with an accuracy of ±0.01 mm in depth without associated contusion. Compared to the standard methods of creating a SCI laceration such as freehand use of a scalpel or scissors, our method has produced a consistent lesion. This method is useful for studies on axonal regeneration of corticospinal, rubrospinal, and dorsal ascending tracts.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/47/01/jove-75-50030.PMC3679671.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5096726", "abstract": "Aim of database The Danish National Penile Cancer Quality database (DaPeCa-data) aims to improve the quality of cancer care and monitor the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of all incident penile cancer cases in Denmark. The aim is to assure referral practice, guideline adherence, and treatment and development of the database in order to enhance research opportunities and increase knowledge and survival outcomes of penile cancer. Study population The DaPeCa-data registers all patients with newly diagnosed invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the penis in Denmark since June 2011. Main variables Data are systematically registered at the time of diagnosis by a combination of automated data-linkage to the central registries as well as online registration by treating clinicians. The main variables registered relate to disease prognosis and treatment morbidity and include the presence of risk factors (phimosis, lichen sclerosus, and human papillomavirus), date of diagnosis, date of treatment decision, date of beginning of treatment, type of treatment, treating hospital, type and time of complications, date of recurrence, date of death, and cause of death. Descriptive data Registration of these variables correlated to the unique Danish ten-digit civil registration number enables characterization of the cohort, individual patients, and patient groups with respect to age; 1-, 3-, and 5-year disease-specific and overall survival; recurrence patterns; and morbidity profile related to treatment modality. As of August 2015, more than 200 patients are registered with ∼65 new entries per year. Conclusion The DaPeCa-data has potential to provide meaningful, timely, and clinically relevant quality data for quality maintenance, development, and research purposes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2c/f4/clep-8-589.PMC5096726.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4421621", "abstract": "Oligomeganephronia is classified as a subgroup of renal hypoplasia, characterized by histopathologic abnormalities which progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) by school age. We describe three adult cases of oligomeganephronia who have not yet developed ESRD. We performed a renal biopsy in all of them. The pathological features, consisting of a reduced number of enlarged glomeruli, were diagnostic of oligomeganephronia. It was assumed that the condition had not progressed to ESRD in the patients because the degree of loss of glomeruli may have been milder than that in typical cases of oligomeganephronia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/83/sfq175.PMC4421621.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3964021", "abstract": "Objective To determine the efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts in pain reduction and functional improvement. Methods 367 primary knee osteoarthritis patients with a pain score of 5 or higher were randomized to receive ibuprofen 1,200 mg/day or C. domestica extracts 1,500 mg/day for 4 weeks. The main outcomes were Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) total, WOMAC pain, WOMAC stiffness, and WOMAC function scores. Adverse events (AEs) were also recorded. Results 185 and 182 patients were randomly assigned into C. domestica extracts and ibuprofen groups, respectively. The baseline characteristics were no different between groups. The mean of all WOMAC scores at weeks 0, 2, and 4 showed significant improvement when compared with the baseline in both groups. After using the noninferiority test, the mean difference (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/78/e7/cia-9-451.PMC3964021.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3748332", "abstract": "The chiropractic profession has struggled with how it is viewed and perceived by those within the profession and the powerful forces outside the profession. This commentary suggests that the vast majority of professional unrest is largely due to lines drawn upon philosophical boundaries and how we perceive what we know. For the profession to advance, it is imperative that unsubstantiated claims are eliminated from our justification for being and that we continue to test theories using scientific methods. Theories espoused must be able to be supported by valid research, and we must be ready to accept the results of these investigations and either build upon that body of research or accept the findings and move in alternative directions that science will take us. In doing so, we will contribute to the philosophy of health and perhaps help to change the health care paradigm from disease focused to wellness, which is based upon evidence and not emotion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/36/4b/PMC3748332.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3997131", "abstract": "The common aim of transcranial stimulation methods is the induction or alterations of cortical excitability in a controlled way. Significant effects of each individual stimulation method have been published; however, conclusive direct comparisons of many of these methods are rare. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of three widely applied stimulation methods inducing excitability enhancement in the motor cortex: 1 mA anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS), intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), and 1 mA transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) within one subject group. The effect of each stimulation condition was quantified by evaluating motor-evoked-potential amplitudes (MEPs) in a fixed time sequence after stimulation. The analyses confirmed a significant enhancement of the M1 excitability caused by all three types of active stimulations compared to sham stimulation. There was no significant difference between the types of active stimulations, although the time course of the excitatory effects slightly differed. Among the stimulation methods, tRNS resulted in the strongest and atDCS significantly longest MEP increase compared to sham. Different time courses of the applied stimulation methods suggest different underlying mechanisms of action. Better understanding may be useful for better targeting of different transcranial stimulation techniques.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/16/PMC3997131.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3531641", "abstract": "Purpose Although the measles-mumps-rubella vaccination covers most children against mumps in Korea, the development of mumps has been reported. However, the clinical manifestations of mumps orchitis in postpubertal vaccinated patients have never been investigated. Herein we report the clinical features of mumps orchitis in postpubertal vaccinated patients. Materials and Methods This study included a total of 62 postpubertal males who developed acute mumps orchitis from 2005 to 2010. The clinical manifestations such as the incubation period, febrile duration, and the mean duration of orchitis were retrospectively investigated. The laboratory and sonographic findings were also reviewed and compared with the features of previously reported cases of unvaccinated postpubertal mumps orchitis. Results The mean age of the 62 patients was 17.56 years (range, 15 to 29 years). All patients were serologically confirmed with acute mumps infection (positive immunoglobulin [Ig] M and negative or positive IgG). The mean incubation period was 5.39 days (range, 0 to 23 days), with a febrile duration of 1.8 days (range, 0.5 to 3 days), and a mean duration of orchitis of 4.96 days (range, 0 to 17 days). Sonography revealed unilateral orchitis in 58 patients (93.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/2d/kju-53-865.PMC3531641.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5038434", "abstract": "We describe clinical symptoms, case-fatality rates, and prevalence of sequelae during an outbreak of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C infection in a rural district of Niger. During home visits, we established that household contacts of reported case-patients were at higher risk for developing meningitis than the general population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/ab/PMC5038434.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4553185", "abstract": " Aim. To evaluate the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) changes in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients using spectral domain optic coherence tomography (Sd-OCT). Methods. We retrospectively examined medical records of forty-four eyes of twenty-two RP patients. The results were also compared with those of previously reported forty-four eyes of twenty-two normal subjects (controls). Records of average and four quadrants peripapillary RNFL thickness measurements using Sd-OCT were assessed. Results. In RP patients the mean RNFL thickness was 97.57 ± 3.21 μm. The RNFL in the superior, temporal, nasal, and inferior quadrants was 119.18 ± 4.47 μm, 84.68 ± 2.31 μm, 75.09 ± 3.34 μm, and 113.88 ± 4.25 μm, respectively. While the thinning of RNFL was predominantly observed in the inferior quadrant, the thickening was mostly noted in temporal quadrant. The differences between mean, superior, and nasal quadrant RNFL thicknesses were not statistically significant when compared with control group. The RP patients had thinner inferior quadrant and thicker temporal quadrant than control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Sd-OCT is highly sensitive and effective instrument to detect RNFL changes in RP patients. RNFL measurements can provide information about the progression of retinitis pigmentosa and may provide prognostic indices for future treatment modalities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/12/71/PMC4553185.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3573823", "abstract": "We report the case of a Japanese male with epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI)-sensitive lung adenocarcinoma, who had an EGFR mutation and presented in the emergency department with acute cardiac tamponade as the recurrence during EGFR-TKI therapy. We could detect a second mutation, T790M in exon 20 in the pericardial effusion. This is the first report to detect the resistant mutation T790M in pericardial effusion. We suggest that the pericardial effusion may therefore be useful as surrogate tissue for detecting EGFR mutation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/75/cro-0006-0015.PMC3573823.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2664129", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To describe and test a practical protocol to measure common carotid intima-media thickness that uses the combined values of two longitudinal examination angles to increase sensitivity. METHOD Between February and September 2005, 206 patients underwent duplex scan examination of carotid vessels, and the intima-media thickness of 407 common carotids were measured in three angles: transversal, longitudinal posterolateral, and anterolateral, with three intima-media thickness measurements for each near and far wall. In addition to numbers obtained from the three angles of measurement, a fourth visual perspective was obtained by combining the intima-media thickness results of posterolateral and anterolateral longitudinal views and considering the thickest wall measurement. RESULTS Two hundred seventy (66.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dc/24/PMC2664129.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4631926", "abstract": "The cystic appearance of both oesophageal duplications and pulmonary hydatid cysts can cause a misdiagnosis very easily due to rarity of cystic oesophageal duplications beside the higher incidence of hydatid cyst, especially in endemic areas. Here we report a 7-year-old girl with an oesophageal duplication cyst on the left side misdiagnosed as a hydatid cyst. The aim of the study is to report rare oesophageal duplications in the differential diagnosis of intrathoracic cysts.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/d4/KITP-12-25854.PMC4631926.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3589656", "abstract": "A 63-year-old man with esophageal achalasia for more than 20 years complained of respiratory distress. He was admitted as an emergency to the referral hospital three months previously. Computed tomography revealed tracheobronchial stenosis due to advanced esophageal cancer with tracheal invasion. He underwent tracheobronchial stenting and chemoradiotherapy. A large tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) developed after irradiation (18 Gy) and chemotherapy, and he was unable to eat. Thereafter, he was referred to our hospital, where we performed esophageal bypass surgery using a gastric conduit. A percutaneous cardiopulmonary support system was prepared due to the risk of airway obstruction during anesthesia. A small-diameter tracheal tube inserted into the stent achieved ordinary respiratory management. No anesthesia-related problems were encountered. Oral intake commenced on postoperative day 9. He was discharged on postoperative day 23 and was able to take in sustenance orally right up to the last moment of his life. Esophageal bypass under general anesthesia can be performed in patients with large TEF with sufficient preparation for anesthetic management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2d/e2/PMC3589656.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3543943", "abstract": "Purpose Actinomycosis is an uncommon chronic granulomatous disease that presents as a slowly progressive, indolent, indurated infiltration with multiple abscesses, fistulas, and sinuses. The purpose of this article is to report on a case of actinomycosis with clinical findings similar to periodontitis. Methods A 46-year-old female presented with recurrent throbbing pain on the right first and second molar of the mandible three weeks after root planing. Exploratory flap surgery was performed, and the bluish-gray tissue fragment found in the interproximal area between the two molars was sent for histopathology. Results The diagnosis from the biopsy was actinomycosis. The clinical and radiographic manifestations of this case were clinically indistinguishable from periodontitis. The patient did not report any symptoms, and she is scheduled for a follow-up visit. Conclusions The present study has identified periodontitis-mimicking actinomycosis. Actinomycosis should be included in the differential diagnosis in cases with periodontal pain and inflammation that do not respond to nonsurgical treatment for periodontitis. More routine submissions of tissue removed from the oral cavity for biopsies may be beneficial for differential diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/fb/jpis-42-256.PMC3543943.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1269447", "abstract": "Cardiac arrest in hospitals is usually preceded by prolonged deterioration. If the deterioration is recognized and treated, often death can be prevented. Medical emergency teams (MET) are a mechanism to fill this need. The epidemiology of patient deteriorations is not well understood. Jones and colleagues provide data regarding the temporal pattern of METs. They describe a diurnal variation to crises that strongly suggests hospital processes may systematically ignore (and find) patient deterioration. Hospitals in the future must develop methodologies to find more reliably patients who are in crisis, and then respond to them swiftly and effectively to prevent unnecessary deaths.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/21/01/PMC1269447.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4820281", "abstract": "Background The aim of this paper is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DLBS3233, a novel bioactive fraction derived from Cinnamomum burmanii and Lagerstroemia speciosa, in improving insulin resistance and preserving β-cell performance in patients with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Patients and methods Eighty adult subjects with IGT, defined as 2-hour postprandial glucose level of 140–199 mg/dL, were enrolled in this two-arm, 12-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled preliminary study. Eligible subjects were randomly allocated to receive either DLBS3233 at a dose of 50–100 mg daily or placebo for 12 weeks. The study mainly assessed the improvement of homeostatic model-assessed insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), the 15-minute and 2-hour plasma insulin levels, and the oral disposition index. Results After 12 weeks, DLBS3233 improved insulin resistance better than placebo as reflected by a reduced HOMA-IR (−27.04", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d1/3a/dddt-10-1279.PMC4820281.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3844254", "abstract": " Purpose. We evaluated the efficacy of arthrocentesis in the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Material and Methods. In this prospective clinical case series, 30 consecutive patients with TMJ disorders underwent arthrocentesis using saline and sodium hyaluronate injections. Outcome measures were TMJ pain, maximum mouth opening (MMO), joint noises, and anatomical changes in the TMJ architecture. Patients were evaluated using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the beginning of treatment and 60 days after the last arthrocentesis. Pretreatment and posttreatment clinical parameters were compared using paired and unpaired t-tests, and McNemar's test was used to evaluate CBCT and MRI changes (P < 0.05). Results. At 1-year follow-up examinations, visual analogue scale scores indicated that pain was reduced significantly and mean postoperative MMO was increased significantly. CBCT findings showed no significant change, and MRI showed only slight reductions in inflammatory signs.  Conclusions. Within the limitations of this study, we can conclude that arthrocentesis is a simple, minimally invasive procedure with a relatively low risk of complications and significant clinical benefits in patients with TMJ disorders. This trial is registered with NCT01903512.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0f/71/PMC3844254.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3245396", "abstract": "We report a case of central venous stenosis due to a structural deformity caused by a tuberculosis-destroyed lung in a 65-year-old woman. The patient presented with left facial edema. She had a history of pulmonary tuberculosis, and the chest X-ray revealed a collapsed left lung. Angiography showed leftward deviation of the innominate vein leading to kinking and stenosis of the internal jugular vein. Stent insertion improved her facial edema.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/8f/kjim-26-460.PMC3245396.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3323220", "abstract": "We report a fatal case of rickettsiosis in a woman from the United States living in Kenya, who had a history of tick exposure. Immunohistochemical staining of skin, kidney, and liver demonstrated spotted fever group rickettsiae. The clinical findings, severity, and fatal outcome are most consistent with Rickettsia conorii infection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/52/e9/PMC3323220.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3677335", "abstract": "The spatiochromatic properties of the red–green dimension of human colour vision appear to be optimized for picking fruit in leaves at about arms' reach. However, other evidence suggests that the task of spotting fruit from a distance might be more important. This discrepancy may arise because the task a system (e.g. human trichromacy) is best at is not necessarily the same task where the largest advantage occurs over the evolutionary alternatives (dichromacy or anomalous trichromacy). We tested human dichromats, anomalous trichromats and “normal” trichromats in a naturalistic visual search task in which they had to find fruit pieces in a bush at 1, 4, 8 or 12 m viewing distance. We found that the largest advantage (in terms of either performance ratio or performance difference) of normal trichromacy over both types of colour deficiency was for the largest viewing distance. We infer that in the evolution of human colour vision, spotting fruit from a distance was a more important selective advantage than picking fruit at arms' reach.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/c2/i-perception-4-84.PMC3677335.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2174003", "abstract": "The unfolded protein response (UPR) counteracts stress caused by unprocessed ER client proteins. A genome-wide survey showed impaired induction of many UPR target genes in xbp-1 mutant Caenorhabditis elegans that are unable to signal in the highly conserved IRE1-dependent UPR pathway. However a family of genes, abu (activated in blocked UPR), was induced to higher levels in ER-stressed xbp-1 mutant animals than in ER-stressed wild-type animals. RNA-mediated interference (RNAi) inactivation of a representative abu family member, abu-1 (AC3.3), activated the ER stress marker hsp-4::gfp in otherwise normal animals and killed 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/26/f9/200203086.PMC2174003.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3680605", "abstract": "Background Most traumatic tracheobronchial injuries are fatal and result in death. Some milder cases are not life threatening and are often missed at the initial presentation. Tracheobronchial rupture is difficult to diagnose in the evaluation of severe multiple trauma patients. We reviewed the traumatic tracheobronchial injuries at Konyang University and Eulji University Hospital and analyzed the clinical results. Materials and Methods From January 2001 to December 2011, 23 consecutive cases of traumatic tracheobronchial injury after blunt trauma were reviewed retrospectively. We divided them into two groups by the time to diagnosis: group I was defined as the patients who were diagnosed within 48 hours from trauma and group II was the patients who diagnosed 48 hours after trauma. We compared the clinical parameters of the two groups. Results There was no difference in the age and gender between the two groups. The most common cause was traffic accidents (56.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b5/fd/kjtcs-46-197.PMC3680605.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2651591", "abstract": "The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA) was recently enacted in the United States. Its supporters have applauded the passage of GINA, and they hope that it will alleviate public fear about genetic discrimination and facilitate genetic testing and participation in genetic research. Critics worry that GINA does not provide adequate protection because it fails to address discrimination on the basis of non-genetic health-related information, and it only regulates the use of genetic information in health insurance and employment. Despite these limitations, GINA represents a major step forward in US policy. Additional research is needed to assess the impact of GINA on industry practice and public opinion. In the mean time, education about GINA and its limitations can help individuals make more informed decisions about genetic testing and participation in genetic research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3c/c3/PMC2651591.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4755965", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study evaluated the effect of Bilevel Positive Airway (BiPAP) on the autonomic control of heart rate, assessed by heart rate variability (HRV), in patients hospitalized with decompensated heart failure. [Subjects and Methods] This prospective cross-sectional study included 20 subjects (age: 69±8 years, 12 male, left ventricular ejection fraction: 36 ±8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/06/01/jpts-28-001.PMC4755965.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5104863", "abstract": "Repeated concussion is common among football players; however, these minor blunt head trauma rarely result in serious complications. We report a case of a young college football player who presented acute subdural hematoma, cerebral edema, and seizure due to pseudoaneurysm rupture. The pseudoaneurysm, located at the cortical branch of the middle cerebral artery, was speculated to be formed by dural calcification and adhesion with the underlying brain, possibly due to repeated concussions. Following successful excision of the pseudoaneurysm and control of brain swelling, the patient recovered without sequelae and was discharged after a short while.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/07/jcen-18-322.PMC5104863.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3236001", "abstract": "Little data exists concerning the efficacy of the antiretroviral therapy in the Federal District in Brazil, therefore in order to improve HIV/AIDS patients’ therapy and to pinpoint hot spots in the treatment, this research work was conducted. Of 139 HIV/AIDS patients submitted to the highly active antiretroviral therapy, 12.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ce/c9/PMC3236001.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4214457", "abstract": "The main contributors to inequities in health relates to widespread poverty. Health cannot be achieved without addressing the social determinants of health, and the answer does not lie in the health sector alone. One of the potential pathways to address vulnerabilities linked to poverty, social exclusion, and empowerment of women is aligning health programmes with empowerment interventions linked to access to capital through microfinance and self-help groups. This paper presents a framework to analyse combined health and financial interventions through microfinance programmes in reducing barriers to access health care. If properly designed and ethically managed such integrated programmes can provide more health for the money spent on health care.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f5/13/PMC4214457.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5104830", "abstract": "For liver metastases (LM), image guided percutaneous ablative procedures such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), laser induced thermal therapy (LITT) and trans-arterial chemo-embolisation (TACE) are increasingly being used because they are relatively safer, less invasive and equally effective. CT scan guided interstitial brachytherapy (IBT) with a single large dose of radiation by high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy is a novel technique of treating LM and has shown good results. Positron emission tomography (PET) scan may provide better information for assessing the response to IBT procedures. We hereby report a case of LM that was treated by HDR IBT and PET scan was done in addition to CT scan for assessing the response.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/47/JCB-2-15496.PMC5104830.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3425264", "abstract": "A 50-year-old male presented with foreign body sensation, pain, and redness in left eye. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy revealed tiny larvae crawling around the conjunctival sac. The larvae, numbering 13, were mechanically removed under topical anesthesia and identified under light microscope as first-stage larvae of Oestrus ovis causing ophthalmomyiasis externa.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3d/5f/JLP-4-43.PMC3425264.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3515539", "abstract": "5-Methylcytosine (5-mC) is an epigenetic modification associated with gene repression. Recent studies demonstrated that 5-mC can be enzymatically oxidised into 5-hydroxymethylcytosine and further into 5-formylcytosine (5-fC) and 5-carboxylcytsine (5-caC). 5-caC has been found in embryonic stem cells and in mouse pre-implantation embryos but no detectable levels of this modification have been reported for somatic tissues to date. Whereas it has been suggested that 5-caC can serve as an intermediate in the process of active demethylation, the function of this form of modified cytosine remains obscure. Here we show that 5-caC is immunochemically detectable in somatic cells of axolotl ovary. We demonstrate that both 5-hmC and 5-caC are localized to the euchromatin in the nuclei of axolotl follicular cells with similar patterns of spatial distribution. Our results suggest that 5-carboxylcytosine may play a distinct functional role in certain biological contexts.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/01/86/nucl-3-565.PMC3515539.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2716485", "abstract": "MicroRNAs are small nonprotein-coding RNAs that regulate the expressions of a wide variety of genes by sequence-specific base pairing on the 3′UTR of mRNA targets resulting in mRNA degradation or inhibition of translation. Aberrant expressions of miRNAs have been linked to tumor development, metastasis, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy response in human breast cancer. Some miRNAs have been considered to have potential clinical applications as a tool for breast cancer prognosis and therapy. Here we describe and discuss lines of evidence supporting the important relationship between miRNAs and breast cancer, and its therapeutic strategies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/42/PMC2716485.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3582875", "abstract": "A twenty-year-old male visited our clinic with wrist and long finger metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint pain. Dynamic ultrasonography revealed sagittal band (SB) ulnar subluxation and extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) volar subluxation. Magnetic resonance imaging showed longitudinal splitting and dislocation of the volar half slip of the ECU tendon. The redundant radial SB was augmented and ECU sheath was advanced to the periosteum using suture anchors. He was able to perform his previous activities at the last follow-up. We encountered a case of \"simulateous\" ECU dislocation with extensor tendon subluxation of the long finger at the MP joint. Therefore, we report this case with a review of the relevant literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/54/cios-5-82.PMC3582875.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3201108", "abstract": "A 72-year-old gentleman presented to the hospital with progressively worsening dysphagia to soft foods and liquids. He was diagnosed with severe pharyngeal dysphagia by modified barium swallow. A CT scan of the neck with IV contrast showed anterior flowing of bridging osteophytes from C3–C6, indicative of DISH, resulting in esophageal impingement. He underwent resection of the DISH segments. Following the surgery, a PEG tube for nutrition supplementation was placed. However, the PEG tube was removed after five months when the speech and swallow evaluation showed no residual dysphagia. DISH is a rare non-inflammatory condition that results in pathological ossification and calcification of the anterolateral spinal ligaments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/1f/PMC3201108.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3153922", "abstract": "A number of advances have been made in the development of modified oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs), and chemical or physical properties of which are controlled by external stimuli. These intelligent ODNs are promising for the next generation of gene diagnostics and therapy. This paper focuses on the molecular design of artificial ODNs that are activated by X-irradiation and their applications to regulation of hybridization properties, conformation change, radiation-activated DNAzyme, and decoy molecules.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dc/53/PMC3153922.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2836737", "abstract": " Purpose. To report the outcomes after primary intravitreal pegaptanib sodium in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME).  Methods. We conduced a retrospective analysis of eyes with DME treated with primary intravitreal pegaptanib sodium (Macugen) (intravitreal pegaptanib group). The results were compared with the ones of eyes treated with intravitreal pegaptanib sodium associated with macular laser photocoagulation (combined treatment group), and the ones of eyes treated with primary macular laser photocoagulation (macular laser photocoagulation group).  Results. For the intravitreal pegaptanib group (13 eyes), we found significant changes in mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and reductions in mean central macular thickness (CMT) at the last follow-up visit (P = .0014 and P = .0001). For the macular laser photocoagulation group (15 eyes), we found no statistically significant changes in mean BCVA and CMT at the last follow-up visit (P > .05). For the combined treatment group (12 eyes), we found no significant changes in mean BCVA at the last follow-up visit (P > .05) despite significant reductions in mean CMT (P = .0188).  Conclusion. Intravitreal pegaptanib treatment alone may be superior to macular laser photocoagulation alone and to combined intravitreal pegaptanib treatment associated with macular laser photocoagulation in patients with DME.  ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/48/bc/PMC2836737.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2650713", "abstract": "Background Systematic reviews have found that luteinizing hormone–releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists are effective in treating premenopausal women with early breast cancer. Methods We conducted long-term follow-up (median 12 years) of 2706 women in the Zoladex In Premenopausal Patients (ZIPP), which evaluated the LHRH agonist goserelin (3.6 mg injection every 4 weeks) and tamoxifen (20 or 40 mg daily), given for 2 years. Women were randomly assigned to receive each therapy alone, both, or neither, after primary therapy (surgery with or without radiotherapy/chemotherapy). Hazard ratios and absolute risk differences were used to assess the effect of goserelin treatment on event-free survival (breast cancer recurrence, new tumor or death), overall survival, risk of recurrence of breast cancer, and risk of dying from breast cancer, in the presence or absence of tamoxifen. Results Fifteen years after the initiation of treatment, for every 100 women not given tamoxifen, there were 13.9 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/14/93/djn498.PMC2650713.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4902151", "abstract": "Background This retrospective, observational study of a routine clinical practice reports the feasibility and efficiency of home-based pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), including transcutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) or usual endurance physical exercise (UEPE), on exercise tolerance, anxiety/depression, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with COPD. Methods Seventy-one patients with COPD participated in home-based PR with NMES (Group NMES [GNMES]), while 117 patients participated in home-based PR with the UEPEs (Group UEPE [GUEPE]). NMES was applied for 30 minutes twice a day, every day. The endurance exercises in GUEPE began with a minimum 10-minute session at least 5 days a week, with the goal being 30–45 minutes per session. Three upper and lower limb muscle strengthening exercises lasting 10–15 minutes were also proposed to both the groups for daily practice. Moreover, PR in both the groups included a weekly 90-minute session based on an educational needs assessment. The sessions comprised endurance physical exercise for GUEPE, NMES for GNMES, resumption of physical daily living activities, therapeutic patient education, and psychosocial support to facilitate health behavior changes. Before and after PR, functional mobility and physical exercise capacity, anxiety, depression, and HRQoL were evaluated at home. Results The study revealed that NMES significantly improved functional mobility (−18.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/8b/copd-11-1189.PMC4902151.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2694378", "abstract": "This study was performed to develop and evaluate a semi-automatic seed localization algorithm from magnetic resonance (MR) images for interstitial prostate brachytherapy. The computerized tomography (CT) and MR images (3 mm-slice thickness) of six patients who had received real-time MR imaging-guided interstitial prostate brachytherapy were obtained. An automatic seed localization method was performed on CT images to obtain seed coordinates, and an algorithm for seed localization from MR images of the prostate was developed and tested. The resultant seed distributions from MR images were then compared to CT-derived distribution by matching the same seeds and calculating percent volume receiving 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/0c/jkms-22-S129.PMC2694378.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3919844", "abstract": "Balloon cell melanoma is a rare melanoma subtype, with only one previous case with dermatoscopy published. It is often non-pigmented, leading to diagnostic difficulty, and there is a tendency for lesions to be thick at diagnosis. We report a case of balloon cell melanoma on the forearm of a 61-year-old man with both polarized and non-polarized dermatoscopy and dermatopathology. It presented as a firm pale nodule with focal eccentric pigmentation. The clinical images evoke a differential diagnosis of dermatofibroma, dermal nevus, Spitz nevus and basal cell carcinoma as well as melanoma. This melanoma was partially pigmented due to a small, pigmented superficial spreading component on the edge of the non-pigmented balloon cell nodule, prompting further evaluation. In retrospect there was the clue to malignancy of polarizing-specific white lines (chrysalis structures) and polymorphous vessels, including a pattern of dot vessels. The reticular lines exclude basal cell carcinoma, polarizing-specific white lines are inconsistent with the diagnosis of dermal nevus and their eccentric location is inconsistent with both Spitz nevus and dermatofibroma. Excision biopsy was performed, revealing a superficial spreading melanoma with two distinct invasive components, one of atypical non-mature epithelioid cells and the other an amelanotic nodular component, comprising more than 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/5d/PMC3919844.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2795368", "abstract": "In 1999 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) published the landmark report “To err is human: building a safer healthcare system” highlighting critical deficiencies within the area of patient safety. As a consequence, safety culture evolved as a core component of quality management in medicine. Purpose of the investigation at hand was to find out to what extent this is reflected in standard quality reports issued by German hospitals providing maximum medical care. Reports issued for the year 2006 were analysed with respect to the appearance of indicators for the presence of a safety culture. Results suggest that despite the huge awareness for patient safety caused by the IOM report, the topic of safety culture does not get the anticipated attention within the quality reports. This may indicate that the current requirements for the quality reports do not facilitate transparency when it comes to the human factor of patient safety.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d7/b2/GMS-07-30.PMC2795368.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4438169", "abstract": "Microcystins (MCs) produced by toxic cyanobacteria cause serious water pollution and public health hazard to humans and animals. However, direct molecular mechanisms of MC-LR in vascular endothelial cells (ECs) have not been understood yet. In this study, we investigated whether MC-LR induces vascular inflammatory process in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Our data demonstrated that MC-LR decreased HUVECs proliferation and tube formation and enhanced apoptosis. MC-LR also induced intracellular reactive oxygen species formation (ROS) in HUVECs. The MC-LR directly stimulated phosphorylation of NF-κB. Furthermore, MC-LR also increased cell adhesion molecules (ICAM-1 and VCAM-1) expression in HUVECs. Taken together, the present data suggested that MC-LR induced vascular inflammatory process, which may be closely related to the oxidative stress, NF-κB activation, and cell adhesion molecules expression in HUVECs. Our findings may highlight that MC-LR causes potential damage to blood vessels.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/85/48/PMC4438169.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4157511", "abstract": "A 44-year-old pregnant female patient gave stillbirth while being treated for pneumonia. She developed acute respiratory failure, which resulted in mechanical ventilator support. Diagnostic lung biopsy revealed a cryptogenic organizing pneumonia. The patient’s condition deteriorated and a venous-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was placed. She was listed for lung transplantation. Because of her worsening condition lung transplantation was performed despite positive cross matching result. She was treated with rituximab, intravenous immunoglobulin, and plasmapheresis and recovered without event. There is no sign of rejection at the time of last follow-up.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/64/7f/kjtcvs-47-420.PMC4157511.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4099243", "abstract": "Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive and safe technique for motor cortex stimulation. TMS is used to treat neurological and psychiatric disorders, including mood and movement disorders. TMS can also treat several types of chronic neuropathic pain. The pain relief mechanism of cortical stimulation is caused by modifications in neuronal excitability. Depression is a common co-morbidity with chronic pain. Pain and depression should be treated concurrently to achieve a positive outcome. Insomnia also frequently occurs with chronic lower back pain. Several studies have proposed hypotheses for TMS pain management. Herein, we report two cases with positive results for the treatment of depression and insomnia with chronic low back pain by TMS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/db/4e/kjpain-27-285.PMC4099243.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2878238", "abstract": "We report an autochthonous human case of tickborne encephalitis (TBE) in the Bordeaux area, southwestern France. The patient was a farmer who had severe encephalomyelitis. ELISA and neutralization assay of serum and cerebrospinal fluid established the diagnosis. This potential new endemic focus for TBE virus should be further investigated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/55/be/PMC2878238.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4721459", "abstract": "Overall health has been linked to socioeconomic status, with the gap between social strata increasing each year. Studying the impact of social position on health and biological functioning in nonhuman primates has allowed researchers to model the human condition while avoiding ethical complexities or other difficulties characteristic of human studies. Using female cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis), our lab has examined the link between social status and stress for 30 years. Female nonhuman primates are especially sensitive to social stressors which can deleteriously affect reproductive health, leading to harmful consequences to their overall health. Subordinates have lower progesterone concentrations during the luteal phase of menstrual cycle, which is indicative of absence or impairment of ovulation. Subordinate animals receive more aggression, less affiliative attention, and are more likely to exhibit depressive behaviors. They also express higher stress-related biomarkers such as increased heart rates and lower mean cortisol. While no differences in body weight between dominant and subordinate animals are observed, subordinates have lower bone density and more visceral fat than their dominant counterparts. The latter increases risk for developing inflammatory diseases. Differences are also observed in neurological and autonomic function. A growing body of data suggests that diet composition may amplify or diminish physiological stress responses which have deleterious effects on health. More experimental investigation of the health effects of diet pattern is needed to further elucidate these differences in an ongoing search to find realistic and long-term solutions to the declining health of individuals living across the ever widening socioeconomic spectrum.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e8/1e/main.PMC4721459.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3666198", "abstract": "Advanced type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with significant morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular, nervous, and renal complications. Attempts to cure diabetes mellitus using islet transplantation have been successful in providing a source for insulin secreting cells. However, limited donors, graft rejection, the need for continued immune suppression, and exhaustion of the donor cell pool prompted the search for a more sustained source of insulin secreting cells. Stem cell therapy is a promising alternative for islet transplantation in type 2 diabetic patients who fail to control hyperglycemia even with insulin injection. Autologous stem cell transplantation may provide the best outcome for those patients, since autologous cells are readily available and do not entail prolonged hospital stays or sustained immunotoxic therapy. Among autologous adult stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy has been applied with varying degrees of success in both animal models and in clinical trials. This review will focus on the advantages of MSCs over other types of stem cells and the possible mechanisms by which MSCs transplant restores normoglycemia in type 2 diabetic patients. Sources of MSCs including autologous cells from diabetic patients and the use of various differentiation protocols in relation to best transplant outcome will be discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8f/0c/PMC3666198.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3166820", "abstract": "Extensive preoperative assessment of hepatic metastases is required in colon cancer patients. We report a case in whom the preoperative investigation by ultrasound scan and contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed numerous cystic lesions of the liver, suspicious of von Meyenburg complex. Magnetic resonance and magnetic resonance cholangiographic images demonstrated typical features of von Meyenburg complex. Further Resovist-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging detected two hemangiomas in addition to the multiple cystic lesions. So-called Kupffer cell imaging strongly helped the detection of these hemangiomas, and a combination of various magnetic resonance pulse sequences was of great value for the differential diagnosis of cystic lesions and hemangiomas. In cases in whom conventional imaging studies fail to give a definite diagnosis, such as in the present case, superparamagnetic iron oxide-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging is meaningful for adequate preoperative staging.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/16/crg0002-0509.PMC3166820.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5192336", "abstract": "Uric acid (UA) is the end product of purine metabolism and can reportedly act as an antioxidant. However, recently, numerous clinical and basic research approaches have revealed close associations of hyperuricemia with several disorders, particularly those comprising the metabolic syndrome. In this review, we first outline the two molecular mechanisms underlying inflammation occurrence in relation to UA metabolism; one is inflammasome activation by UA crystallization and the other involves superoxide free radicals generated by xanthine oxidase (XO). Importantly, recent studies have demonstrated the therapeutic or preventive effects of XO inhibitors against atherosclerosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, which were not previously considered to be related, at least not directly, to hyperuricemia. Such beneficial effects of XO inhibitors have been reported for other organs including the kidneys and the heart. Thus, a major portion of this review focuses on the relationships between UA metabolism and the development of atherosclerosis, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and related disorders. Although further studies are necessary, XO inhibitors are a potentially novel strategy for reducing the risk of many forms of organ failure characteristic of the metabolic syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8b/49/PMC5192336.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3122158", "abstract": "ABSTRACT A method for use in high-throughput screening of bacteria for the production of long-chain hydrocarbons and ketones by monitoring fluorescent light emission in the presence of Nile red is described. Nile red has previously been used to screen for polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and fatty acid esters, but this is the first report of screening for recombinant bacteria making hydrocarbons or ketones. The microtiter plate assay was evaluated using wild-type and recombinant strains of Shewanella oneidensis and Escherichia coli expressing the enzyme OleA, previously shown to initiate hydrocarbon biosynthesis. The strains expressing exogenous Stenotrophomonas maltophilia oleA, with increased levels of ketone production as determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, were distinguished with Nile red fluorescence. Confocal microscopy images of S. oneidensis oleA-expressing strains stained with Nile red were consistent with a membrane localization of the ketones. This differed from Nile red staining of bacterial PHB or algal lipid droplets that showed intracellular inclusion bodies. These results demonstrated the applicability of Nile red in a high-throughput technique for the detection of bacterial hydrocarbons and ketones. IMPORTANCE In recent years, there has been renewed interest in advanced biofuel sources such as bacterial hydrocarbon production. Previous studies used solvent extraction of bacterial cultures followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to detect and quantify ketones and hydrocarbons (Beller HR, Goh EB, Keasling JD, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 76:1212–1223, 2010; Sukovich DJ, Seffernick JL, Richman JE, Gralnick JA, Wackett LP, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 76:3850–3862, 2010). While these analyses are powerful and accurate, their labor-intensive nature makes them intractable to high-throughput screening; therefore, methods for rapid identification of bacterial strains that are overproducing hydrocarbons are needed. The use of high-throughput evaluation of bacterial and algal hydrophobic molecule production via Nile red fluorescence from lipids and esters was extended in this study to include hydrocarbons and ketones. This work demonstrated accurate, high-throughput detection of high-level bacterial long-chain ketone and hydrocarbon production by screening for increased fluorescence of the hydrophobic dye Nile red.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/68/30/mBio.00109-11.PMC3122158.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3568200", "abstract": "Globally, national pharmacovigilance systems rely on spontaneous reporting in which suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are reported to a national coordinating centre by health professionals, manufacturers or patients. Spontaneous reporting systems are the easiest to establish and the cheapest to run but suffer from poor-quality reports and underreporting. It is difficult to estimate rates and frequencies of ADRs through spontaneous reporting. Public health programmes need to quantify and characterize risks to individuals and communities from their medicines, to minimize harm and improve use, to sustain public confidence in the programmes, and to track problems due to medication errors and poor quality medicines. Additional methods are therefore needed to monitor the quantitative aspects of medicine safety, to better identify specific risk factors and high-risk groups, and to characterize ADRs associated with specific medicines and in specific populations. The present paper introduces two methods, cohort event monitoring and targeted spontaneous reporting, that are being implemented by the WHO, in its public health programmes, to complement spontaneous reporting. The advantages and disadvantages of these methods and how each can be applied in clinical practice are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/d6/40264_2012_Article_14.PMC3568200.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4327525", "abstract": "Alport Syndrome (AS) is an important hereditary disorder affecting the glomerular basement membrane. Diagnosis of AS is based on the presence of hematuric nephropathy, renal failure, hearing loss, ocular abnormalities and changes in the glomerular basement membrane of the lamina densa. The aims of this case report were to show the changes in the gingival tissues in a patient with AS under therapy with cyclosporin-A after renal transplantation and to discuss the possible role of type IV collagen in gingival basal lamina as an alternative approach for the diagnosis of AS. A 20-year-old male patient with AS underwent periodontal therapy including a series of gingivectomy surgeries. Gingival samples obtained during the second surgery were examined histopathologically and by transmission electron microscopy for further pathological examination. Gingivectomy procedures have been performed every 6 months over the last 4 years. The excessive and fibrous gingival enlargements resulted in migration of the anterior teeth, but no alveolar bone loss occurred. This is the first report to demonstrate the possible changes in the gingival tissues caused by AS. It is suggested that gingival biopsy can be an initial diagnostic tool instead of renal or skin biopsies. Proper dental and periodontal care and regular visits to the dentist could provide limited gingival hyperplasia to patients with AS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/0b/1678-7757-jaos-17-06-0623.PMC4327525.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3631784", "abstract": "Background Heart transplantation in elderly patients has raised concerns because of co-morbidities and limited life expectancy in the era of donor shortage. We examined the outcomes after heart transplantation in elderly patients. Materials and Methods From March 1994 to December 2011, 81 patients (male:female=64:17, 49.1±14.0 years) underwent heart transplantation. The outcomes after heart transplantation in the younger patients (<60 years; group Y, n=60) were compared with those in the elderly patients (≥60 years; group O, n=21). The follow-up duration was 51.8±62.7 months. Results Early mortality (≤30 days) occurred in 5.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e7/50/kjtcs-46-111.PMC3631784.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4660049", "abstract": "Parents will interact with a multitude of teams from various disciplines during their child's admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. Recognition of the emotional stressors experienced by these parents is a first step in working to provide the crucial support and parenting skills needed for bonding and caring for their infant from admission through discharge and beyond. Family-centered care involves time-sensitive two-way communication between parents and the multidisciplinary team members who coordinate care transition by providing emotional, educational, medical and home visitor support for these families. To do this well, a thoughtful exchange of information between team members and parents is essential to identify psychosocial stress and ameliorate family concerns. Parents will need emotional and educational support and follow-up resources. Establishing individualized, flexible but realistic, pre- and post-discharge plans with parents is needed to start their healthy transition to home and community.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/86/de/jp2015146a.PMC4660049.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3384956", "abstract": "More than a decade has elapsed since the link between the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) machinery and HIV-1 protein trafficking and budding was first identified. L domains in HIV-1 Gag mediate recruitment of ESCRT which function in bud abscission releasing the viral particle from the host cell. Beyond virus budding, the ESCRT machinery is also involved in the endocytic pathway, cytokinesis, and autophagy. In the past few years, the number of non-ESCRT host proteins shown to be required in the assembly process has also grown. In this paper, we highlight the role of recently identified cellular factors that link ESCRT machinery to calcium signaling machinery and we suggest that this liaison contributes to setting the stage for productive ESCRT recruitment and mediation of abscission. Parallel paradigms for non-ESCRT roles in virus budding and cytokinesis will be discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5c/e1/PMC3384956.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4603040", "abstract": "Abstract Multiple or second primary lung cancers can develop at any sites in the lung with same or different histologic types, synchronously and/or metachronously. In case of metachronous occurrence of the second primary lung cancer, it is easy to confuse with the primary lung cancer as a recurrence of precedent lung malignancy treated successfully or metastasis. Previous reports have demonstrated that majority of the second primary lung malignancies have same histologic types regardless of their developing time and location. However, the repeated occurrence of the second primary lung malignancy, in particular with the different histologic features, is a very rare condition. A 62-year-old male who had past history of squamous cell carcinoma treated with surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy and the recurrence of lung malignancy on the trachea, which was also resected successfully visited our hospital due to blood tinged sputum. Evaluation using bronchoscopy and chest computed tomography revealed the tracheal mass looked similar grossly to the previous recurred tracheal mass that was resected surgically. Unexpectedly, the newly developed tracheal mass was confirmed as small cell lung cancer, the different histologic type from previous ones. In this report, we describe an interesting case of subsequent occurrence of second primary lung cancers showing histologic shifting at different sites in trachea, suggesting that it is important for physician to make an effort to identify the histologic characteristics of second primary lung cancers for the correct and adequate treatment no matter what they exhibit similar gross morphology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/5e/medi-94-e770.PMC4603040.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4667716", "abstract": "Adeno-associated virus (AAV) has been developed as a promising human gene therapy vector. Particularly, recombinant AAV vector (rAAV) achieves its transduction of host cells by crossing at least three physiological barriers including plasma membrane, endosomal membrane, and nuclear envelope (NE). So far, the AAV transduction mechanism has not been explored thoroughly at the single viral particle level. In this study, we employed high-speed super-resolution single-point edge-excitation sub-diffraction (SPEED) microscopy to map the events of single rAAV2 particles infecting live human cells with an unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution of 9–12 nm and 2–20 ms. Data reveal that rAAV2 particles are imported through nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) rather than nuclear membrane budding into the nucleus. Moreover, approximately 17", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a6/cb/mtm201547.PMC4667716.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2682379", "abstract": "Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an ocular disease that causes damage to the retinal macula, mostly in the elderly. Normal aging processes can lead to structural and blood flow changes that can predispose patients to AMD, although advanced age does not inevitably cause AMD. In this review, we describe changes that occur in the macular structure, such as the retinal pigment epithelium and Bruch’s membrane, with advancing age and in AMD. The role of genetics in AMD and age-related changes in ocular blood flow that may play a role in the pathogenesis of AMD are also discussed. Understanding the pathophysiology of AMD development can help guide future research to further comprehend this disease and to develop better treatments to prevent its irreversible central vision loss in the elderly.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/0f/PMC2682379.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5292215", "abstract": "Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in most countries. The aim was to examine the quality of life and to determine the differences in the quality of life in patients one year after myocardial infarction and the relationship between quality of life and echocardiographic parameters in these patients. Material and Methods: The research was a prospective, clinical, epidemiological study and was conducted at the Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Center Sarajevo (UCCS). The research was conducted on a sample of 160 patients who had acute myocardial infarction, which are based on the therapeutic procedures divided into four groups. The average age in the total sample was 54.9±8.8 years (range 37-76 years). The research was conducted one year after myocardial infarction (I group of subjects) or 12 months after PCI therapeutic procedures (II and III group of respondents) or coronary artery bypass surgery (IV group of respondents). Results: Comparison of the mean scores of scales in SF-36 questionnaire showed that the highest total score had patients in the group II 67.3±15.2, and the lowest in the group I 57.8±21.4. The increase in ejection fraction leads to a statistically significant increase in quality of life scores at all subscales, in all groups, so that EF has the greatest impact on the quality of life in all respondents. Statistically significant differences in the effects of mitral regurgitation in particular groups have been recorded only in the case of the mental health scale. Conclusions: Ejection fraction has the greatest impact on the quality of life in all patients, regardless of the type of medical treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/16/00/MA-70-419.PMC5292215.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2447776", "abstract": "Recent technical advances in mass spectrometry (MS) have brought the field of metabolomics to a point where large numbers of metabolites from numerous prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms can now be easily and precisely detected. The challenge today lies in the correct annotation of these metabolites on the basis of their accurate measured masses. Assignment of bulk chemical formula is generally possible, but without consideration of the biological and genomic context, concrete metabolite annotations remain difficult and uncertain. MassTRIX responds to this challenge by providing a hypothesis-driven approach to high precision MS data annotation. It presents the identified chemical compounds in their genomic context as differentially colored objects on KEGG pathway maps. Information on gene transcription or differences in the gene complement (e.g. samples from different bacterial strains) can be easily added. The user can thus interpret the metabolic state of the organism in the context of its potential and, in the case of submitted transcriptomics data, real enzymatic capacities. The MassTRIX web server is freely accessible at http://masstrix.org", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/75/gkn194.PMC2447776.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4642174", "abstract": "The empirical distribution of the eigenvalues of the matrix XXT divided by its trace is evaluated, where X is a random Hankel matrix. The distribution of eigenvalues for symmetric and nonsymmetric distributions is assessed with various criteria. This yields several important properties with broad application, particularly for noise reduction and filtering in signal processing and time series analysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/5e/main.PMC4642174.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2692111", "abstract": "It is known that respiratory muscles undergo adaptation in response to overload stimuli during exercise training in stable COPD patients, thus resulting in significant increase of respiratory muscle function as well as the individual’s improvements. The present article reviews the most updated evidence with regard to the use of respiratory muscle training (RMT) methods in COPD patients. Basically, three types of RMT (resistive training, pressure threshold loading, and normocapnic hyperpnea) have been reported. Frequency, duration, and intensity of exercise must be carefully considered for a training effect. In contrast with the plentitude of existing data inherent to inspiratory muscle training (IMT), literature is still lacking in showing clinical and physiological studies related to expiratory muscle training (EMT). In particular, while it seems that IMT is slightly superior to EMT in providing additional benefits other than respiratory muscle function such as a reduction in dyspnea, both the effects and the safety of EMT is still to be definitively elucidated in patients with COPD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a9/c3/PMC2692111.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4720840", "abstract": "A 68-year-old man was admitted for a syncope workup. After routine evaluation, he was diagnosed with syncope of an unknown cause and was discharged from the hospital. He was readmitted due to dizziness. On repeated Holter monitoring, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia was detected during syncope. We performed intracoronary ergonovine provocation test; severe coronary spasm was induced at 70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9c/e2/kcj-46-102.PMC4720840.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4725261", "abstract": "Using a serotonin antibody and confocal microscopy, this study reports for the first time direct serotonergic innervation of the muscle sheath covering the secretory region of the salivary glands of adult tsetse fly, Glossina pallidipes Austen. Reports to date, however, note that up until this finding, dipteran species previously studied lack a muscle sheath covering of the secretory region of the salivary glands. Direct innervation of the salivary gland muscle sheath of tsetse would facilitate rapid deployment of saliva into the host, thus delaying a host response. Our results also suggest that the neuronal and abnormal pattern seen in viral infected glands by the Glossina pallidipes salivary gland hypertrophy virus (GpSGHV) is due to a compensatory increased branching of the neurons of the salivary glands, which is associated with the increased size of the salivary glands in viral infected flies. This study shows for the first time serotonin in the cell bodies of the brain and thoracico-abdominal ganglion in adult tsetse, G. pallidipes Austen (Diptera: Glossinidae). A hypothesis is proposed as to whether innervation of the muscle sheath covering of the secretory region of the salivary glands is present in brachyceran compared with nematoceran dipterans; and, a plea is made that more research is needed to develop a blood feeding model, similar to that in the blow flies, for elucidating the various mechanisms involved in production and deployment of saliva.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/90/PMC4725261.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3328849", "abstract": "Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is the most frequent AIDS-defining cancer worldwide. KS-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is the etiological agent of KS, and the virus is also associated with two lymphoproliferative diseases. Both KS and KSHV-associated lymphomas, are cancers of unique molecular composition. They represent a challenge for cancer treatment and an opportunity to identify new mechanisms of transformation. Here, we review the current clinical insights into KSHV-associated cancers and discuss scientific insights into the pathobiology of KS, primary effusion lymphoma, and multicentric Castleman’s disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/aa/fmicb-03-00141.PMC3328849.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4900734", "abstract": "Abstract Due to its rarity, experience with pregnancy in Budd–Chiari syndrome (BCS) is limited. With the advent of new treatment modalities, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in particular, numbers of affected women seeking pregnancy with BCS are expected to rise. Here, we use a case that ended lethal within 2 years after delivery to discuss the effect of pregnancy on BCS and vice versa, and to highlight the necessity of a multidisciplinary teamwork. Additionally, a risk classification is proposed which may serve as a framework for preconception counseling and assist in the establishment and evaluation of treatment algorithms; its criteria need to be defined and assessed for their applicability in further studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ba/75/medi-95-e3817.PMC4900734.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4024559", "abstract": "Cobalt-Chromium (Co-Cr) alloys are classified as predominantly base-metal alloys and are widely known for their biomedical applications in the orthopedic and dental fields. In dentistry, Co-Cr alloys are commonly used for the fabrication of metallic frameworks of removable partial dentures and recently have been used as metallic substructures for the fabrication of porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations and implant frameworks. The increased worldwide interest in utilizing Co-Cr alloys for dental applications is related to their low cost and adequate physico-mechanical properties. Additionally, among base-metal alloys, Co-Cr alloys are used more frequently in many countries to replace Nickel-Chromium (Ni-Cr) alloys. This is mainly due to the increased concern regarding the toxic effects of Ni on the human body when alloys containing Ni are exposed to the oral cavity. This review article describes dental applications, metallurgical characterization, and physico-mechanical properties of Co-Cr alloys and also addresses their clinical and laboratory behavior in relation to those properties.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/9c/jap-6-138.PMC4024559.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5419064", "abstract": "Severe hypercalcemia in infants is usually attributed to genetic etiologies and less commonly to acquired ones. An 8-week-old girl presented with failure to thrive, mild respiratory distress, and life-threatening hypercalcemia (23.5 mg/dL). Serum 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D (1,25(OH)2-D) level was elevated and parathyroid hormone undetectable. Evaluation for genetic mutations and malignant etiologies of hypercalcemia was negative. Treatment with intravenous hydration, loop diuretic, and calcitonin failed to correct the hypercalcemia, which was subsequently controlled with bisphosphonate therapy. Due to progressive respiratory deterioration, a bronchopulmonary lavage was done on day 17 of her hospitalization disclosing Pneumocystis jiroveci infection. The subsequent immunological investigation showed no abnormalities. She was treated with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole resulting in gradual clearing of her lungs and normalization of serum 1,25(OH)2-D level. A year later, she remains healthy with normal biochemical parameters of mineral metabolism. We conclude that in a child with hypercalcemia with suppressed parathyroid hormone and elevated 1,25(OH)2-D, once the genetic etiology for elevated 1,25(OH)2-D and malignancy are ruled out, one should investigate closely for a chronic granulomatous disease. Among the latter Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia infection should be considered even in an immunocompetent child.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/ee/10.1177_2333794X17705955.PMC5419064.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2893963", "abstract": "We report a microfluidic device for rapid and efficient concentration of micro/nanoparticles with direct current dielectrophoresis (DC DEP). The concentrator is composed of a series of microchannels constructed with PDMS-insulating microstructures for efficiently focusing the electric field in the flow direction to provide high field strength and gradient. The location of the trapped and concentrated particles depends on the strength of the electric field applied. Both ‘streaming DEP’ and ‘trapping DEP’ simultaneously take place within the concentrator at different regions. The former occurs upstream and is responsible for continuous transport of the particles, whereas the latter occurs downstream and rapidly traps the particles delivered from upstream. The performance of the device is demonstrated by successfully concentrating fluorescent nanoparticles. The described microfluidic concentrator can be implemented in applications where rapid concentration of targets is needed such as concentrating cells for sample preparation and concentrating molecular biomarkers for detection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/48/PMC2893963.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4027676", "abstract": "Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is frequently misdiagnosed as other Parkinsonism because of clinical heterogeneity of PSP. We present here a case of a 67-year-old male patient with frontotemporal dementia-like cognitive impairment including language difficulties and abnormal behaviors. He showed severe facial dystonia after the levodopa treatment. Herein, we describe an unusual case of a patient presenting with PSP which, we believe could contribute to our knowledge about atypical leveodopa-induced facial dystonia in PSP.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6f/7c/jmd-5-1-28-8.PMC4027676.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3965051", "abstract": "The computational detection of similarities between protein 3D structures has become an indispensable tool for the detection of homologous relationships, the classification of protein families and functional inference. Consequently, numerous algorithms have been developed that facilitate structure comparison, including rapid searches against a steadily growing collection of protein structures. To this end, NCBI’s Molecular Modeling Database (MMDB), which is based on the Protein Data Bank (PDB), maintains a comprehensive and up-to-date archive of protein structure similarities computed with the Vector Alignment Search Tool (VAST). These similarities have been recorded on the level of single proteins and protein domains, comprising in excess of 1.5 billion pairwise alignments. Here we present VAST+, an extension to the existing VAST service, which summarizes and presents structural similarity on the level of biological assemblies or macromolecular complexes. VAST+ simplifies structure neighboring results and shows, for macromolecular complexes tracked in MMDB, lists of similar complexes ranked by the extent of similarity. VAST+ replaces the previous VAST service as the default presentation of structure neighboring data in NCBI’s Entrez query and retrieval system. MMDB and VAST+ can be accessed via http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Structure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d1/82/PMC3965051.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3201113", "abstract": "Objective: To reduce adverse effects and improve efficacy of intravesical BCG for bladder cancer, alternative treatment options were investigated in an orthotopic rat tumor model. Methods: Superficial bladder cancer was established in syngeneic female rat bladders by instillation of AY-27 cells. Animals were randomly assigned to treatment groups including dose escalation of intravesical BCG with or without interferon-α (IFN-α) or interleukin-2 (IL-2); or graded doses of gemcitabine alone; or BCG plus gemcitabine. Treatments were given twice weekly for 3 weeks. Rats in control groups received saline instillations. Treatment response was monitored by animals’ well-being, survival days, tumor growth inhibition, and histological examination at necropsy. Results: Rats receiving monotherapy with intravesical BCG, gemcitabine, or IFN-α, attained significantly better survival and tumor reduction compared with control (P = 0.002; 0.001; 0.002, respectively, Log-rank Test). A dose-dependent treatment response was observed in animals with established bladder tumor receiving escalated BCG instillations. Only high-dose BCG significantly improved animal survival. Although high-dose BCG plus gemcitabine or IFN-α did not increase benefit over monotherapies, low-dose BCG plus IL-2 did show improved efficacy (P = 0.01). Conclusion: Intravesical monotherapies with gemcitabine and IFN-α were as effective as BCG for treatment of early non-muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer in this immune competent rat model. Combining these agents with high-dose BCG did not further increase efficacy. However, combining low-dose BCG with IL-2 enhanced BCG effectiveness.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/88/PMC3201113.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4191458", "abstract": "This article presents detailed analyses of the trends in Medicare expenditures for persons with end-stage renal disease. Program expenditures increased at an annual rate of 30.5 percent from 1974 to 1981. Three-fourths of this increase was a result of increases in enrollment. Per capita reimbursements for dialysis patients increased at a 5.2-percent annual rate and per capita reimbursements for transplant patients increased at a 10.5-percent annual rate. In 1979, per capita reimbursements for home dialysis patients were 5,000 less than for in-unit dialysis patients. Patient characteristics such as age, sex, race, and cause of renal failure were, for the most part, unrelated to the costs of dialysis and transplantation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7f/95/PMC4191458.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4077110", "abstract": "The presentation of synchronous primary tumours is rare and presents a difficult diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to primary care clinicians and hospital specialists. Increased life expectancy, improved radiological and biochemical investigation and more rigorous pre- and postoperative evaluation will lead to an increasing clinical trend for both metachronous and synchronous primary neoplasms. We report on a case of synchronous bladder and breast cancer in an elderly woman. We detail our investigation and management of the patient, review the literature and suggest the possible causative factors for the association of these synchronous tumours. We also highlight the extent of multiple primary cancers and discuss the diagnostic, treatment and preventative strategies for metachronous and synchronous primary tumours.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/0f/PMC4077110.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3084307", "abstract": "Chronic conditions such as heart failure (HF) place a tremendous strain on patients, their families, the community, and the health care system because there are no real “cures”. Adding to the burden are longer life expectancies and increased numbers of people living with multiple chronic conditions. Today, whether engaging in a health-promoting activity, such as exercise, or living with a chronic disease such as HF, the individual is responsible for actively managing day-to-day activities, a concept referred to as self-management. Self-management emerged as the cornerstone for chronic care models and multidisciplinary disease-management strategies in chronic illness care. Moreover, self-management has been prioritized as a central pathway for improving the quality and effectiveness of most chronic HF care. Adherence to self-management is vital to optimize the treatment outcomes in HF patients, but implementing chronic disease self-management (CDSM) strategies and identifying the difficulties in self-management has proved to be a challenge. Understanding both where we have been and the future direction of self-management in HF care is not only timely, but a crucial aspect of improving long-term outcomes for people with HF and other chronic diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/90/72/PMC3084307.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3095898", "abstract": " Background. The risks of occupational asthma (OA) from antibiotics are uncertain. We report 4 new cases and a systematic review of the literature. Methods. Cases were identified through a specialist clinic, each underwent specific provocation testing (SPT). We subsequently reviewed the published literature. Results. The patients were employed in the manufacture of antibiotics; penicillins were implicated in three cases, in the fourth erythromycin, not previously reported to cause OA. In two, there was evidence of specific IgE sensitisation. At SPT each developed a late asthmatic reaction and increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness. 36 case reports have been previously published, 26 (citing penicillins or cephalosporins). Seven cross-sectional workplace-based surveys found prevalences of 5–8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/51/PMC3095898.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5370295", "abstract": "Regional anesthesia for non-obstetric surgery in parturients is a method to decrease patient and fetal risk during general anesthesia. Thoracic interfascial nerve block can be used as an analgesic technique for surgical procedures of the thorax. The Pecs II block is an interfascial block that targets not only the medial and lateral pectoral nerves, but also the lateral cutaneous branch of the intercostal nerve. Pecto-intercostal fascial block (PIFB) targets the anterior cutaneous branch of the intercostal nerve. The authors successfully performed a modified Pecs II block and PIFB without complications in a parturient who refused general anesthesia for breast surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/e5/kjae-70-209.PMC5370295.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3031811", "abstract": "Purpose Social work (SW) practices are undergoing major transformations generated by change in the governance of health and social policies. These transformations are based on two logical performance, one managerial, resting on New Public Management principles, and another clinic, supported by evidence based practices. The implementation of integrated services is traversed by these two logics that shape it and call a relative standardization of clinical practice. Theory Standardization of practices should be conceived as bi-dimensional, like a normative system heterogeneous to practice of SW but also like a set of incorporated and collective routines sustaining the professional autonomy of SW. Methods Qualitative analysis of representations of standardization from a corpus of interviews with 10 case managers on two implantation sites of PRISMA-France pilot project. Results and conclusion Standardization appears weakly conceptualized in social workers practices. Managerial dimensions of standardization dominating in their representations. However, some forms of standardization associated to tools for information exchange and evaluation are seen by SW as vectors of efficiency in clinical practice. SW have a complex relationship to the multifaceted nature of the standardization that requires a nuanced analysis of its effects on their practices.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4d/8f/PMC3031811.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4557408", "abstract": "Background: Several studies are conducted on Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). However, a few herbal surveys exist on the treatment of PMS in Iran. Due to the sedative effects of Melissa officinalis (M. officinalis), this question comes to mind that “can it be used in the treatment of PMS symptoms?” Objectives: The current study aimed to assess the effect of M. officinalis capsule on the intensity of PMS in high-school girls. Materials and Methods: A double-blind randomized, placebo-controlled trial was performed on 100 high school girls from 2013 to 2014. The intervention group (n = 50) received 1200 mg of M. officinalis essence daily from the first to the last day of their menstrual cycle for three consecutive cycles. The second group (n = 50) received the placebo. The premenstrual symptoms screening tool was used to assess the intensity of PMS symptoms in the two groups before and one, two, and three months after the intervention. The data were analyzed using paired t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance. Results: The results of repeated measures test revealed a significant reduction (P < 0.001) in PMS symptoms. Overall, the mean score of PMS intensity in the intervention group was 42.56 + 15.73 before the intervention and changed to 32.72 ± 13.24, 30.02 ± 12.08, and 13.90 ± 10.22 at the three consecutive months after the intervention, respectively (P = 0.001). Conclusions: M. officinalis capsules were effective in reduction of the PMS symptoms. Yet, application of this medication requires further investigations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/a1/nms-04-27001.PMC4557408.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3485978", "abstract": "Primary cultures of hepatocytes are powerful models in studying the sequence of events that are necessary for cell progression from a G0-like state to S phase. The models mimic the physiological process of hepatic regeneration after liver injury or partial hepatectomy. Many reports suggest that the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) ERK1/2 can support hepatocyte proliferation in vitro and in vivo and the MEK/ERK cascade acts as an essential element in hepatocyte responses induced by the EGF. Moreover, its disregulation has been associated with the promotion of tumor cell growth of a variety of tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma. Whereas the strict specificity of action of ERK1 and ERK2 is still debated, the MAPKs may have specific biological functions under certain contexts and according to the differentiation status of the cells, notably hepatocytes. In this paper, we will focus on MEK1/2-ERK1/2 activations and roles in normal rodent hepatocytes in vitro and in vivo after partial hepatectomy and in human hepatocarcinoma cells. The possible specificity of ERK1 and ERK2 in normal and transformed hepatocyte will be discussed in regard to other differentiated and undifferentiated cellular models.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/1d/PMC3485978.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5080160", "abstract": "[Purpose] Respiratory physiotherapy is an effective approach to improving lung function in patient, including athletes with respiratory dysfunction caused by sports injury. The purpose of this study was to analyze the differences in the respirograms between taekwondo poomsae athletes and nonathletes according to the respirogram phase. [Subjects and Methods] Respiratory measurements for 13 elite taekwondo poomsae athletes were obtained. Respiratory function was measured using spirometry while the participant was seated. [Results] In respirogram phasic analysis, the inspiratory area of forced vital capacity were significantly increased in the athletes than in the nonathletes. The slopes of the forced vital capacity for athletes at slopes 1, 2, and 3 of the A area were significantly higher than those for the nonathletes. In correlation analysis, chest circumference was significantly correlated with slope 1 of the A area of the forced vital capacity. [Conclusion] Results indicate that differences in respirogram phasic changes between athletes and nonathletes may contribute to better understanding of respiratory function, which is important to sports physiotherapy research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/49/8d/jpts-28-2495.PMC5080160.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5301122", "abstract": "A 23-year-old male presented with a 3-month history of left purulent rhinorrhea, progressive nasal obstruction, and intermittent epistaxis. A fiberoptic examination revealed a large vascular polypoid mass completely filling the left nasal cavity. CT and MRI scans showed a large hypervascular mass involving the left nasal airway, maxillary antrum, and the anterior ethmoid cells. There was no bony erosion or contiguous spread, and the remaining sinuses, orbit, and cranial fossa were uninvolved. The patient underwent complete removal of the mass via an external lateral rhinotomy approach. The soft mass was large and vascular. A microscopic analysis revealed an undifferentiated tumor consisting of a solid sheet of small, round blue cells. Mitotic figures were also present. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells were strongly positive for CD99. Molecular studies using a PCR confirmed the chromosomal translocation of FLI1 (exon 6). These findings were considered diagnostic for Ewing's sarcoma. Postoperatively, the patient was treated with combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Adjuvant chemotherapy consisting of vincristine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide alternating with ifosfamide and etoposide (total: 7 cycles) was commenced. He also received radiation therapy for local control (total dose: 50.4 Gy). The patient is currently alive without any evidence of recurrence or metastasis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/bf/cro-0010-0091.PMC5301122.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3354458", "abstract": "The obstruction of the superior vena cava (SVC) of acute onset nature following surgery is a rare and serious condition. The tight closure of the pericardium over the heart during surgical procedures may cause external compression on the SVC. Echocardiography and Computed tomography (CT) scan aids in the diagnosis. Cutting open the pericardial stitches relieves the condition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/26/JCDR-3-135.PMC3354458.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4967700", "abstract": " Introduction. Sport presents a risk of ocular trauma and accounts for a significant number of eye injuries that require hospital admission. The sport of golf presents a risk to eyesight from fast moving objects such as golf clubs and balls. This study aims to investigate the associations of golf with eye injuries and the reasons that these injuries occur. Material/Methods. A literature search was conducted using the databases MEDLINE, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and PsycINFO. Grey literature was searched using the WHO international clinical trials registry platform, Google Scholar, and ProQuest. Data was extracted using a standardised form and summarised into a report. Results and Discussion. Twenty-three studies were found relating to eye injuries in golf. Injuries appear to be rare, but more frequent in men and children. Injuries resulted in high rates of enucleation and visual impairment. Children sustained more injury from golf clubs whereas adults sustained more injuries from golf balls. Conclusion. Efforts are needed to encourage golf participants to understand the risks of ocular and indeed other head injuries. Initiatives to provide appropriate supervision and education on this topic are merited. Further research is needed to investigate the circumstances of eye injury in golf and assess the effects of interventions aimed at reducing risk of injury. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/10/d9/PMC4967700.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5337456", "abstract": " Objective Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an emerging nosocomial pathogen that causes fatal infections in critically ill or immunocompromised patients. S. maltophilia bacteremia (SMB) is a rare condition, and its clinical characteristics in Japanese settings are not well known.   Methods The medical charts of patients with SMB were retrospectively reviewed at two medical facilities (Okayama University Hospital and Tsuyama Chuo Hospital) for seven years. The data were analyzed along with those previously reported from other Japanese facilities.   Result A total of 181 patients (110 men and 71 women) were evaluated. The major underlying diseases included hematologic malignancy (36.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cf/dc/1349-7235-56-0137.PMC5337456.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4284312", "abstract": " Descriptions of organosulfurs altering biologically relevant cellular functions began some 40 years ago when murine in vitro cell mediated and humoral immune responses were shown to be dramatically enhanced by any of four xenobiotic, sulfhydryl compounds—2-mercaptoethanol (2ME), dithiothreitol (DTT), glutathione, and L-cysteine; the most effective were 2ME and DTT. These findings triggered a plethora of reports defining 2ME benefits for a multitude of immunological processes. This in turn led to investigations on 2ME alterations of (a) immune functions in other species, (b) activities of other cell-types, and (c) in vivo diseases. In addition, these early findings preceded the identification of previously undefined anticarcinogenic chemicals in specific foods as organosulfurs. Taken all together, there is little doubt that organosulfur compounds have enormous benefits for cellular functions and for a multitude of diseases. Issues of importance still to be resolved are (a) clarification of mechanisms that underlie alteration of in vitro and in vivo processes and perhaps more importantly, (b) which if any in vitro alterations are relevant for (i) alteration of in vivo diseases and (ii) identification of other diseases that might therapeutically benefit from organosulfurs. As one means to address these questions, reviews of different processes impacted by thiols could be informative. Therefore, the present review on alterations of in vitro fertilization processes by thiols (mainly 2ME, since cysteamine alterations have been reviewed) was undertaken. Alterations found to occur in medium supplemented with 2ME were enhancement, no effect, or inhibition. Parameters associated with which are discussed as they relate to postulated thiol mechanisms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/21/83/jrd-60-399.PMC4284312.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5019135", "abstract": "Cataract is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Increasing evidence indicates that oxidative stress is an important risk factor contributing to the development of cataract. Moreover, the enhancement of the antioxidant defense system may be beneficial to prevent or delay the cataractogenesis. The term oxidative stress has been defined as a disturbance in the equilibrium status of oxidant/antioxidant systems with progressive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in intact cells. Superfluous ROS can damage proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, and nucleic acids within ocular tissues that are closely correlated with cataract formation. Therefore, prevention of oxidative stress damage by antioxidants might be considered as a viable means of medically offsetting the progression of this vision-impairing disease. Molecular hydrogen has recently been verified to have protective and therapeutic value as an antioxidant through its ability to selectively reduce cytotoxic ROS such as hydroxyl radical (OH). Hitherto, hydrogen has been used as a therapeutic element against multiple pathologies in both animal models and human patients. Unlike most well-known antioxidants, which are unable to successfully target organelles, hydrogen has advantageous distribution characteristics enabling it to penetrate biomembranes and diffuse into the cytosol, mitochondria, and nucleus. Consequently, we speculate that hydrogen might be an effective antioxidant to protect against lens damage, and it is important to further explore the biological mechanism underlying its potential therapeutic effects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/83/PMC5019135.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4376931", "abstract": "Introduction Orthostatic hypotension has long been recognised as a paraneoplastic effect of lung cancer. Lung cancer presenting with orthostatic hypotension and migraine-type headaches has not been previously described in the literature. Case Report A 62-year-old Caucasian male presented with headaches, typical of his migraine, after a 30-year migraine-free period. An examination revealed a significant postural drop in BP with reflex tachycardia and no other features of dysautonomia. Investigations showed a metastatic squamous cell lung cancer. Pharmacological treatment of orthostatic hypotension resolved the migraine-type headaches. Discussion Orthostatic hypotension is associated with lung cancer. Prompt pharmacological treatment in patients not responding to non-pharmacological therapy can provide relief from disabling symptoms of orthostatic hypotension. In this patient, this included symptoms consistent with migraine-type headaches.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4a/93/cro-0008-0142.PMC4376931.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4302352", "abstract": "Pituitary adenomas, monoclonal in origin, are the most common intracranial neoplasms. Altered gene expression as well as somatic mutations is detected frequently in pituitary adenomas. The purpose of this study was to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and biological processes during tumor formation of pituitary adenomas. We performed an integrated analysis of publicly available GEO datasets of pituitary adenomas to identify DEGs between pituitary adenomas and normal control (NC) tissues. Gene function analysis including Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks analysis was conducted to interpret the biological role of those DEGs. In this study we detected 3994 DEGs (2043 upregulated and 1951 downregulated) in pituitary adenoma through an integrated analysis of 5 different microarray datasets. Gene function analysis revealed that the functions of those DEGs were highly correlated with the development of pituitary adenoma.  This integrated analysis of microarray data identified some genes and pathways associated with pituitary adenoma, which may help to understand the pathology underlying pituitary adenoma and contribute to the successful identification of therapeutic targets for pituitary adenoma.  ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ff/3b/PMC4302352.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4135223", "abstract": " [Purpose] A wide variety of accelerometer tools are used to estimate human movement, but there are no adequate data relating to gait symmetry parameters in the context of knee osteoarthritis. This study’s purpose was to evaluate a 3D-kinematic system using body-mounted sensors (gyroscopes and accelerometers) on the trunk and limbs. This is the first study to use spectral analysis for data post processing. [Subjects] Twelve patients with unilateral knee osteoarthritis (OA) (10 male) and seven age-matched controls (6 male) were studied. [Methods] Measurements with 3-D accelerometers and gyroscopes were compared to video analysis with marker positions tracked by a six-camera optoelectronic system (VICON 460, Oxford Metrics). Data were recorded using the 3D-kinematic system. [Results] The results of both gait analysis systems were significantly correlated. Five parameters were significantly different between the knee OA and control groups. To overcome time spent in expensive post-processing routines, spectral analysis was performed for fast differentiation between normal gait and pathological gait signals using the 3D-kinematic system. [Conclusions] The 3D-kinematic system is objective, inexpensive, accurate and portable, and allows long-term recordings in clinical, sport as well as ergonomic or functional capacity evaluation (FCE) settings. For fast post-processing, spectral analysis of the recorded data is recommended.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/86/jpts-26-997.PMC4135223.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649630", "abstract": "Anastomotic leak after low anterior resection (LAR) in patients with rectal cancer who have received neoadjuvant chemoradiation can be challenging to treat and can lead to the creation of a permanent stoma. We report the case of a post-operative anastomotic leak after a Baker-type anastomosis during a low anterior resection was successfully managed with transanal endoscopic microsurgical (TEM) debridement and repair. TEM can be a successful endoluminal alternative treatment in the management of anastomotic leak after LAR and can prevent the morbidity associated with re-exploration and colostomy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fc/b1/PMC3649630.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5099337", "abstract": "Background and Objectives Endomyocardial biopsy is obligatory during the first year after heart transplant (HTx) for the surveillance of acute rejection. Previous attempts using cardiac biomarkers for the detection of rejection failed to show enough evidence to substitute endomyocardial biopsy. Therefore, this study sought the possibility of using soluble ST2 (sST2), a novel cardiovascular marker, as a surrogate marker for acute allograft rejection after HTx. Subjects and Methods A total of 494 blood samples acquired at the time of endomyocardial biopsy were analyzed in 67 HTx cases from September 2006 to August 2014. Significant rejection was defined as International Society of Heart and Lung Transplant (ISHLT) score ≥2R and humoral rejection accompanied by hemodynamic instability. Results Twenty cases of HTx with 22 blood samples showed significant rejection in endomyocardial biopsy at 4.0 (2.0-9.0) months after HTx. The level of sST2 showed positive correlation with cardiac troponin I, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (all p<0.001), and negative correlation with post-HTx months (p<0.001). The levels of sST2 according to the ISHLT scores were 36 (19-98), 28 (18-62), 15 (16-37), and 191 (85-343) ng/mL, consecutively 0R, 1R, 2R, and 3R+ (3R plus hemodynamically-unstable humoral rejection) (p=0.003). However, when we studied within-subject effects of sST2 using a mixed model, the sST2 level according to the predefined time point was not different according to the presence of significant rejection (p for interaction=0.94). Conclusion Although sST2 is known as a promising predictor for cardiovascular events, its role in HTx patients to predict acute allograft rejection seems to be limited.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/c1/kcj-46-811.PMC5099337.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4463782", "abstract": "An 81-year-old female consulted a local physician due to diarrhea. Since general fatigue and body weight loss were observed, she was admitted for detailed examination and treatment. Colonoscopy revealed a circumferential giant tumor with a maximum diameter of 10 cm in the rectum, and biopsy findings indicated villous adenoma. The tumor secreted a large amount of mucus, and a diagnosis of electrolyte depletion syndrome causing electrolyte disorders was made. We performed endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) as a less invasive procedure. The tumor was so big that the procedure had to be completed in two separate steps and it took 1,381 min in total. The tumor was histologically diagnosed as well-differentiated adenocarcinoma in high-grade adenoma located in the lower to upper rectum, invading into the mucosa without lymphatic or venous invasion. The stump of the resected specimen was negative for adenocarcinoma, however the horizontal stump was positive for adenoma. We administered steroid suppositories to prevent stenosis. After ESD, general fatigue and diarrhea disappeared and electrolyte disorders resolved. The patient had good clinical outcome without recurrence or stenosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/21/f9/crg-0009-0126.PMC4463782.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4296049", "abstract": "Various anomalies for the origin of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) have been described in the literature. However, origin of the MMA from the basilar trunk is an extremely rare variant. We report on a 54-year-old female who presented with frequent headaches; magnetic resonance imaging showed a right parietal meningioma. The abnormal origin of the middle meningeal artery from the basilar artery was diagnosed by angiography performed for preoperative embolization of the tumor. We report on the case with a review of the embryologic basis, possible explanations for this aberrant origin, and its clinical implications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c4/5e/jcen-16-364.PMC4296049.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2526411", "abstract": "Ionized hypocalcemia is a common finding in critically ill patients, but the relationship between ionized hypocalcemia and mortality risk in trauma patients has not been well established. The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of initial ionized calcium (iCa) in predicting mortality in the trauma population, and evaluate its superiority over the three other triage tools: base deficit, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) score, and triage-revised trauma score (t-RTS). A proand retrospective study was performed on 255 consecutive trauma patients admitted to our Emergency Medical Center from January to December, 2005, who underwent arterial blood gas analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed iCa (≤0.88 mM/L), low Glasgow coma scale score, and a large transfusion amount to be significant risk factors associated with mortality (p<0.05). The sensitivities of iCa, base deficit, SIRS score, and t-RTS were 82.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/12/86/jkms-23-700.PMC2526411.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3590343", "abstract": "Osseous hemangioma is a benign vascular tumor, and it usually occurs in the vertebrae and the skull. However, hemangiomas of flat bones are rare, and there are very few reports that describe the radiologic findings of osseous hemangioma of the ilium. We report a unique case of large cavernous hemangioma mimicking a chondrogenic malignant bone tumor originated from the ilium in a 22-year-old female. The mass showed stippled calcifications, heterogeneous enhancement with thick septa and enhanced soft tissue components on CT and MR, and also this mass demonstrated heterogeneous 2-fluoro [fluorine-18]-2-deoxy-D-glucose (18F-FDG) uptake on 18F-FDG PET/CT.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ff/d2/kjr-14-294.PMC3590343.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3560645", "abstract": "Summary Background There is a growing interest in examining death rates associated with different pregnancy outcomes for time periods beyond one year. Previous population studies, however, have failed to control for complete reproductive histories. In this study we seek to eliminate the potential confounding effect of unknown prior pregnancy history by examining mortality rates associated specifically with first pregnancy outcome alone. We also examine differences in mortality rates associated with early abortion and late abortions (after 12 weeks). Material/Method Medical records for the entire population of women born in Denmark between 1962 and 1991 and were alive in 1980, were linked to death certificates. Mortality rates associated with first pregnancy outcomes (delivery, miscarriage, abortion, and late abortion) were calculated. Odds ratios examining death rates based on reproductive outcomes, adjusted for age at first pregnancy and year of women’s births, were also calculated. Results A total of 463,473 women had their first pregnancy between 1980 and 2004, of whom 2,238 died. In nearly all time periods examined, mortality rates associated with miscarriage or abortion of a first pregnancy were higher than those associated with birth. Compared to women who delivered, the age and birth year adjusted cumulative risk of death for women who had a first trimester abortion was significantly higher in all periods examined, from 180 days (OR=1.84; 1.11 <95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ea/5f/PMC3560645.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5011406", "abstract": "Background Infections caused by Leishmania are becoming major public health problems on a global scale. Many species of Leishmania around the world are obtaining resistance levels of up to 15 folds, as estimated by the World Health Organization. Leishmania showing resistance is relatively difficult to observe and maintain in laboratory settings. Objectives The current study deals with the generation of Leishmania tropica strains that are resistant to amphotericin B (amp B). Materials and Methods The L. tropica strain was attenuated using continuous passaging 20 times. The infectivity of L. tropica was confirmed in BALB/c mice. The L. tropica resistant strain was produced in vitro using a continuous increase in drug pressure. The cross resistance of L. tropica to other drugs was also investigated. Results After 20 continuous passages, the BALB/c mice tested negative in the development of leishmaniasis. At a concentration of 0.1 µg/mL, L. tropica showed resistance to amp B. The newly developed promastigotes were 16 times more resistant compared to the resistance of the wild type promastigotes. The resistant L. tropica strain showed cross resistance to itraconazole and had a resistance index that was greater than five. The resistant strain displayed maximum stability for more than three months in the drug-free medium. Conclusions The resistant strain of L. tropica can be produced in laboratories using continuous drug pressure. The attenuated resistant strain has significant implications (both medically and academically) in the ability to overcome resistance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/ab/jjm-09-06-32159.PMC5011406.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3484723", "abstract": "This is the first case report of a superior segmental optic hypoplasia (SSOH) combined with normal-tension glaucoma accompanied by a progressive glaucomatous visual field defect. A 40-year-old man, incidentally diagnosed as having bilateral SSOH, had disc hemorrhage associated with expansion of the width of a retinal nerve fiber layer defect and deterioration of a visual field defect in the right eye during the follow-up period. His left eye showed a stable visual field. The diurnal variation in intraocular pressure (IOP) showed a higher mean IOP in his right eye compared with his left eye, although both IOPs remained under 21 mmHg.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/42/PMC3484723.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2858845", "abstract": "A seventeen-year-old female patient was admitted with sudden-onset of headache and vomiting. Brain magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a heterogeneously enhancing tumour in the left lateral ventricle. The tumour was removed and confirmed as a central neurocytoma (CN). For the residual tumour in the left lateral ventricle, gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery was done at fifteen months after the initial surgery. Tumour recurred in the 4th ventricle at 5 yr after initial surgery. The tumour was removed and proved as a CN. In vitro primary culture was done with both tumours obtained from the left lateral ventricle and the 4th ventricle, respectively. Nestin, a neuronal stem cell marker was expressed in reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction of both tumors. Both tumours showed different morphology and phenotypes of neuron and glia depending on the culture condition. When cultured in insulin, transferrin selenium and fibronectin media with basic fibroblast growth factors, tumour cells showed neuronal morphology and phenotypes. When cultured in the Dulbeco's Modified Essential Media with 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f2/fb/jkms-25-798.PMC2858845.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3375782", "abstract": "A new methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) clone related to pig and cattle farming was detected in the Netherlands. We investigated the extent of S. aureus presence in meat and found 36 S. aureus strains in 79 samples. Two strains were MRSA; 1 was multilocus sequence type 398, the clone related to farming.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/32/PMC3375782.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4241901", "abstract": "[Purpose] Vascular endothelial dysfunction is an early marker of atherosclerosis characterized by decreased nitric oxide bioavailability in the vascular endothelium and smooth muscle cells. Recently, some animal models and in vitro trials demonstrated that excessive superoxide production from mitochondria within vascular endothelial cells played a role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetes. This review provides a systematic assessment of the effectiveness of exercise to identify effective approaches to recognize diabetes risk and prevent progression to heart disease. [Methods] A systematic literature search was conducted to retrieve articles from 1979 to 2013 using the following databases: the MEDLINE, PubMed. Articles had to describe an intervention that physical activity and exercise to identify effective approaches to heart and vascular endothelium. [Results] Currently, physical activity and exercise guidelines aimed to improve cardiovascular health in patients with type 2 diabetes are nonspecific. Benefit of aerobic exercise training on vascular endothelial function in type 2 diabetic patients is still controversial. [Conclusion] it is necessary to demonstrate the mechanism of endothelial dysfunction from live human tissues so that we can provide more specific exercise training regimens to enhance cardiovascular health in type 2 diabetic patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/b1/jenb-18-3-239.PMC4241901.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5328423", "abstract": "Introduction An apnea episode is defined as the cessation of breathing for ≥15 seconds or as any suspension of breathing accompanied by hypoxia and bradycardia. Obtaining information about the respiratory system in a neonate can be accomplished using electromyography signals from the diaphragm muscle. Objective The purpose of this paper is to illustrate a method by which the respiratory and electrocardiographic signals from neonates can be obtained using diaphragmatic electromyography. Materials and methods The system was developed using single-supply, micropower components, which deliver a low-power consumption system appropriate for the development of portable devices. The stages of the system were tested in both adult and neonate patients. Results The system delivers signals as those expected in both patients and allows the acquisition of respiratory signals directly from the diaphragmatic electromyography. Conclusion This low-power system may present a good alternative for monitoring the cardiac and respiratory activity in newborn babies, both in the hospital and at home. Significance The system delivers good signals but needs to be validated for its use in neonates. It is being used in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital General de Medellín Luz Castro de Gutiérrez.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/3f/mder-10-047.PMC5328423.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4269314", "abstract": "This in vitro study evaluated the presence of voids in powder-liquid and capsulated glass ionomer cement. 40 cavities were prepared on root surfaces of maxillary incisors and divided into four groups. Cavities were conditioned with glass ionomer cement liquid (GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) in Groups 1 and 3 and with dentin conditioner (GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) in Groups 2 and 4. Conventional powder-liquid glass ionomer cement (GC Fuji II, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) was used as a restorative material in Groups 1 and 2. Capsulated glass ionomer cement (GC Fuji II, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) was used in Groups 3 and 4. Samples were sectioned and viewed under stereomicroscope to check for the presence of voids within the cement and at the cement-tooth junction. Data was analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests. Group 4 showed statistically significant results (P < 0.05) when compared to Groups 1 and 2 for voids within the cement. However, for voids at the margins, the results were statistically insignificant.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b7/59/PMC4269314.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4258374", "abstract": "We analyzed the OCT features of 24 eyes of 12 patients with Bietti crystalline dystrophy (BCD) with the Heidelberg HRA2-OCT. Seventeen of 24 eyes were in intermediate stage of the disease and seven in advanced stage of the disease at the time of latest OCT examination performed in 2014. Outer retinal tubulations and retinal hyperreflective dots were present in 20 of 24 eyes. The remaining four eyes had advanced disease with very thin retina. Appearance of bright plaque on top of RPE-Bruch membrane was present in all eyes. Choroidal hyperreflective spots were noted in 19 of 24 eyes. The remaining five eyes had advanced disease stage with very thin choroid. Mean central macular thickness was 163.08 μm ± 62.52 for all eyes (170.35 μm ± 56.46 in eyes with intermediate disease and 145.42 μm ± 77.2 in eyes with advanced disease). Mean subfoveal choroidal thickness was 95.37 μm ± 55.93 for the study eyes (116.47 ± 46.92 μm in eyes with intermediate disease and 44.14 μm ± 42.43 in eyes with advanced disease). Choroidal hyperreflective spots were noted in 21 of 24 eyes (87.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/f8/PMC4258374.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3242994", "abstract": "Purpose The aim of this study was to categorize concealed penis and buried penis by preoperative physical examination including the manual prepubic compression test and to describe a simple surgical technique to correct buried penis that was based on surgical experience and comprehension of the anatomical components. Materials and Methods From March 2007 to November 2010, 17 patients were diagnosed with buried penis after differentiation of this condition from concealed penis. The described surgical technique consisted of a minimal incision and simple fixation of the penile shaft skin and superficial fascia to the prepubic deep fascia, without degloving the penile skin. Results The mean age of the patients was 10.2 years, ranging from 8 years to 15 years. The median follow-up was 19 months (range, 5 to 49 months). The mean penile lengths were 1.8 cm (range, 1.1 to 2.5 cm) preoperatively and 4.5 cm (range, 3.3 to 5.8 cm) postoperatively. The median difference between preoperative and postoperative penile lengths was 2.7 cm (range, 2.1 to 3.9 cm). There were no serious intra- or postoperative complications. Conclusions With the simple anchoring of the penopubic skin to the prepubic deep fascia, we obtained successful subjective and objective outcomes without complications. We suggest that this is a promising surgical method for selected patients with buried penis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/f8/kju-52-787.PMC3242994.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3769413", "abstract": "Patients with diabetes mellitus are at increased risk from cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality as compared with healthy individuals. An association between the postprandial metabolic state and atherogenesis has been observed in patients with diabetes mellitus. In the Study to Prevent Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (STOP-NIDDM), treatment with an α-glucosidase inhibitor (α-GI) in patients with impaired glucose tolerance not only reduced the rate of conversion from impaired glucose tolerance to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but was also associated with a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events. These results suggested the importance of treating postprandial hyperglycemia in the early stages of T2DM. Glinides are rapid and short-acting insulin secretagogues that bind to the sulfonylurea receptors on pancreatic β-cells to facilitate rapid insulin secretion, restore postprandial early insulin secretion, and reduce the postprandial glucose spike. Moreover, α-GIs reduce postprandial hyperglycemia and insulin secretion by delaying the digestion of carbohydrates and polysaccharides in the small intestine. Then, both glinides and α-GI have beneficial effects for treating patients with T2DM and impaired glucose tolerance. Considering the ameliorating effects of these drugs on postprandial metabolic disorders, combinations of glinides and α-GI might constitute a promising therapeutic strategy for managing patients with T2DM, and also appear to be suitable for Japanese people, who consume more carbohydrates, such as polished rice, than Caucasians. It has recently been reported that combined use of mitiglinide and voglibose reduces postprandial insulin secretion and blunts diurnal glycemic changes in T2DM patients. This therapy can thus be regarded as being suitable for achieving strict postprandial glycemic control. In this report, we outline the effects of this combination therapy on postprandial plasma glucose and assess its safety.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/7b/dmso-6-317.PMC3769413.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4163315", "abstract": " Background. Premature infants are commonly subject to intestinal inflammation. Since the human small intestine does not reach maturity until term gestation, premature infants have a unique challenge, as either acute or chronic inflammation may alter the normal development of the intestinal tract. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) has been shown to acutely alter goblet cell numbers and villus length in adult mice. In this study we tested the effects of TNF on villus architecture and epithelial cells at different stages of development of the immature small intestine. Methods. To examine the effects of TNF-induced inflammation, we injected acute, brief, or chronic exposures of TNF in neonatal and juvenile mice. Results. TNF induced significant villus blunting through a TNF receptor-1 (TNFR1) mediated mechanism, leading to loss of villus area. This response to TNFR1 signaling was altered during intestinal development, despite constant TNFR1 protein expression. Acute TNF-mediated signaling also significantly decreased Paneth cells. Conclusions. Taken together, the morphologic changes caused by TNF provide insight as to the effects of inflammation on the developing intestinal tract. Additionally, they suggest a mechanism which, coupled with an immature immune system, may help to explain the unique susceptibility of the immature intestine to inflammatory diseases such as NEC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f5/68/PMC4163315.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3744268", "abstract": "Objective: To investigate the effect of teriflunomide on the efficacy and safety of seasonal influenza vaccine. Methods: The 2011/2012 seasonal influenza vaccine (containing H1N1, H3N2, and B strains) was administered to patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS) treated for ≥6 months with teriflunomide 7 mg (n = 41) or 14 mg (n = 41), or interferon-β-1 (IFN-β-1; n = 46). The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with influenza strain–specific antibody titers ≥40, 28 days postvaccination. Results: More than 90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/97/b3/WNL205272.PMC3744268.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4940556", "abstract": "Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) using autologous cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells is a promising treatment for metastatic carcinomas. In this study, we investigated the impact of RetroNectin on the proliferation, phenotype alternation, cytokine secretion, and cytotoxic activity of CIK cells from pancreatic cancer patients. Furthermore, we treated 13 patients with metastatic or locally advanced pancreatic cancer using autologous RetroNectin-activated CIK cells (R-CIK cells) alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Compared with only CD3 activated CIK cells (OKT-CIK cells), R-CIK cells showed stronger and faster proliferative ability, with a lower ratio of spontaneous apoptosis. Moreover, this ability continued after IL-2 was withdrawn from the culture system. R-CIK cells could also secrete higher levels of IL-2 and lower levels of IL-4 and IL-5 versus OKT-CIK cells. There was no difference between OKT-CIK and R-CIK cells in cytotoxic ability against lymphoma cell line K562. In patients who received auto-R-CIK cell infusion therapy, the overall objective response rate was 23.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/28/15/PMC4940556.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2975451", "abstract": "Krüppel-like factors (KLFs), members of the zinc-finger family of transcription factors capable of binding GC-rich sequences, have emerged as critical regulators of important functions all over the body. They are characterised by a highly conserved C-terminal DNA-binding motif containing three C2H2 zinc-finger domains, with variable N-terminal regulatory domains. Currently, there are 17 KLFs annotated in the human genome. In spite of their structural similarity to one another, the genes encoding different KLFs are scattered all over the genome. By virtue of their ability to activate and/or repress the expression of a large number of genes, KLFs regulate a diverse array of developmental events and cellular processes, such as erythropoiesis, cardiac remodelling, adipogenesis, maintenance of stem cells, epithelial barrier formation, control of cell proliferation and neoplasia, flow-mediated endothelial gene expression, skeletal and smooth muscle development, gluconeogenesis, monocyte activation, intestinal and conjunctival goblet cell development, retinal neuronal regeneration and neonatal lung development. Characteristic features, nomenclature, evolution and functional diversities of the human KLFs are reviewed here.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/03/PMC2975451.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4393048", "abstract": "The seeds of ten genotypes and twenty-nine wild relatives of okra were analysed for the presence of trypsin, chymotrypsin, and Helicoverpa gut proteinases (HGPs) inhibitors (HGPIs), with the aim to identify potent inhibitors of H. armigera gut proteinases. Proteinase inhibitors (PIs) obtained from wild relatives of okra exhibited stronger inhibition of HGPs than the genotypes of okra. In in vitro inhibitory assay against HGPs, A. tuberculatus 90396 and 90515 showed high tryptic inhibitory (71.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/57/e7/PMC4393048.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5376121", "abstract": "Objective This study was designed to evaluate the cardiotoxicity of a QX-314 analog (QX-OH) and a mixture of QX-OH and levobupivacaine (LL-1) and to compare the ability to resuscitate rats after asystole induced by levobupivacaine (Levo-BUP), QX-314, QX-OH, and LL-1. Methods First, we used the “up-and-down” method to determine median dose resulting in appearance of cardiotoxicity (CD50C) and asystole (CD50A) of Levo-BUP, QX-314, QX-OH, and LL-1 in rats. Safety index (SI; ratio of CD50C compared with 2-fold median effective dose needed to produce sensory blockade) of the 4 drugs was calculated. Isobolograms were used for drug interaction analysis. Second, rats received 1.2-fold CD50A in the 4 groups. When asystole occurred, standard cardiopulmonary resuscitation was started and continued for 30 min or until return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) with native rate–pressure product ≥30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/c5/jpr-10-737.PMC5376121.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4792243", "abstract": "Objectives  Bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA) occasionally cause soft tissue problems due to abutment. Because Sophono does not have abutment penetrating skin, it is thought that Sophono has no soft tissue problem relating to abutment. On the other hand, transcutaneous device’s output is reported to be 10 to 15 dB lower than percutaneous device. Therefore, in this study, Sophono and BAHA were compared to each other from surgical and audiological points of view. Methods  We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 9 Sophono patients and 10 BAHA patients. In BAHA cases, single vertical incision without skin thinning technique was done. We compared Sophono to BAHA by operation time, wound healing time, postoperative complications, postoperative hearing gain after switch on, and postoperative air-bone gap. Results  The mean operation time was 60 minutes for Sophono and 25 minutes for BAHA. The wound healing time was 14 days for Sophono and 28 days for BAHA. No major intraoperative complication was observed. Skin problem was not observed in the 2 devices for the follow-up period. Postoperative hearing gain of bilateral aural atresia patients was 39.4 dB for BAHA (n=4) and 25.5 dB for Sophono (n=5). However, the difference was not statistically significant. In all patients included in this study, the difference of air-bone gap between two groups was 16.6 dB at 0.5 kHz and 18.2 dB at 4 kHz. BAHA was statistically significantly better than Sophono. Conclusion  Considering the audiologic outcome, BAHA users were thought to have more audiologic benefit than Sophono users. However, Sophono had advantages over BAHA with abutment in cosmetic outcome. Sophono needed no daily skin maintenance and soft tissue complication due to abutment would not happen in Sophono. Therefore, a full explanation about each device is necessary before deciding implantation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1d/0b/ceo-2016-9-1-21.PMC4792243.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3216302", "abstract": "This paper summarizes two recent ALT studies from our institution focusing on the utility of colour flow Doppler's ultrasonography and volumetric changes with radiation. Lastly, we will discuss recommended changes to practice due to the aforementioned studies. Our findings suggest that special care should be made to identify patients at high risk for peripheral arterial disease, and, if the reconstructive surgeon has any concerns, preoperative colour flow Doppler's ultrasonography should be undertaken to better characterize the perforator anatomy and avoid inappropriate flap elevation in patients with silent claudication. Particular detail should be paid to flap thickness especially in patients with increased body habitus. Radiation therapy has on average 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/23/PMC3216302.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4175788", "abstract": " Objective. The main aim of this study was to comparatively analyze the recurrence and prognosis of this rare variant with the literature by analyzing the follow-up data of 5 patients diagnosed with papillary cancer macrofollicular variant. Methods. The demographic data, radiological and pathological data, and prognostic data of 5 patients who underwent surgery for thyroid cancer and were diagnosed with papillary cancer macrofollicular variant pathologically were retrospectively analyzed. Results. The mean age of patients whose mean follow-up period was determined as 7.2 years was 41, and the male/female ratio was 4/1. All patients underwent total thyroidectomy. The pathology report of 2 patients (40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/11/29/PMC4175788.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5371207", "abstract": "Case summary This case report describes the surgical technique used and clinical outcome of a 15-year-old neutered female cat that had a comminuted fracture of the right glenoid and scapular neck secondary to a gunshot injury that was treated with glenoidectomy. Relevance and novel information Good clinical outcomes are possible with removal of the glenoid for treatment of comminuted fractures of the scapulohumeral joint. Glenoidectomy is a viable alternative to amputation in cats with normal neurovascular supply to the affected limb. Persistent functional, pain-free lameness, muscle hypertrophy and changes in shoulder range of motion are to be expected.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b2/e8/10.1177_2055116915613816.PMC5371207.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4821674", "abstract": "Objectives: To describe response to treatment in a patient with autoantibodies against voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) who presented with autoimmune cerebellar degeneration and subsequently developed Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), and to study the effect of the patient's autoantibodies on Purkinje cells in rat cerebellar slice cultures. Methods: Case report and study of rat cerebellar slice cultures incubated with patient VGCC autoantibodies. Results: A 53-year-old man developed progressive incoordination with ataxic speech. Laboratory evaluation revealed VGCC autoantibodies without other antineuronal autoantibodies. Whole-body PET scans 6 and 12 months after presentation detected no malignancy. The patient improved significantly with IV immunoglobulin G (IgG), prednisone, and mycophenolate mofetil, but worsened after IV IgG was halted secondary to aseptic meningitis. He subsequently developed weakness with electrodiagnostic evidence of LEMS. The patient's IgG bound to Purkinje cells in rat cerebellar slice cultures, followed by neuronal death. Reactivity of the patient's autoantibodies with VGCCs was confirmed by blocking studies with defined VGCC antibodies. Conclusions: Autoimmune cerebellar degeneration associated with VGCC autoantibodies may precede onset of LEMS and may improve with immunosuppressive treatment. Binding of anti-VGCC antibodies to Purkinje cells in cerebellar slice cultures may be followed by cell death. Patients with anti-VGCC autoantibodies may be at risk of irreversible neurologic injury over time, and treatment should be initiated early.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/eb/NEURIMMINFL2015006254.PMC4821674.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3312279", "abstract": "Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is a causative agent in the vast majority of urinary tract infections (UTIs), including cystitis and pyelonephritis, and infectious complications, which may result in acute renal failure in healthy individuals as well as in renal transplant patients. UPEC expresses a multitude of virulence factors to break the inertia of the mucosal barrier. In response to the breach by UPEC into the normally sterile urinary tract, host inflammatory responses are triggered leading to cytokine production, neutrophil influx, and the exfoliation of infected bladder epithelial cells. Several signaling pathways activated during UPEC infection, including the pathways known to activate the innate immune response, interact with calcium-dependent signaling pathways. Some UPEC isolates, however, might possess strategies to delay or suppress the activation of components of the innate host response in the urinary tract. Studies published in the recent past provide new information regarding how virulence factors of uropathogenic E. coli are involved in activation of the innate host response. Despite numerous host defense mechanisms, UPEC can persist within the urinary tract and may serve as a reservoir for recurrent infections and serious complications. Presentation of the molecular details of these events is essential for development of successful strategies for prevention of human UTIs and urological complications associated with UTIs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/59/PMC3312279.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3030053", "abstract": "Rhabdomyolysis is a rare but potentially lethal clinical syndrome that results from acute muscle fiber necrosis with leakage of muscle constituents into blood. This devastating disease could be due to muscle compression caused by urologic positioning for a lengthy nephrectomy. In this regard, laparoscopic renal surgery may be a risk for the development of rhabdomyolysis. This phenomenon of massive muscle necrosis can produce secondary acute renal failure. The risk factors have to be managed carefully during anesthetic management. Here, we report a case of a patient with rhabdomyolysis that developed in the flexed lateral decubitus position during laparoscopic nephrectomy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/f1/kjae-59-S41.PMC3030053.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3310642", "abstract": "In Africa, incidence and prevalence of drug-resistant tuberculosis have been assumed to be low. However, investigation after a 2005 outbreak of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa, found that the incidence rate for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in KwaZulu-Natal was among the highest globally and would be higher if case-finding efforts were intensified.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e2/f4/PMC3310642.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4197917", "abstract": "Self-insertion of foreign bodies into the urethra and urinary bladder for autoerotic stimulation is a rather rare urological emergency condition. We present a case of 41-year-old lady who self-inserted a crochet needle into the urethra for sexual pleasure, which was successfully retrieved during examination under general anaesthetic and endoscopic bladder evaluation. Foreign bodies in the urinary bladder are rarely encountered yet represent a urological challenge that requires prompt management in view of possible sequellae if left untreated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b5/23/rju020.PMC4197917.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3658635", "abstract": " Background/Aims. Glucocorticoids may have adverse effects on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. The present study was conducted to investigate possible effects on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism of inhaled and oral glucocorticoids in children with asthma. Methods. Two randomised controlled trials with blinded crossover designs were performed. Active treatment was 400 μg inhaled budesonide or 5 mg prednisolone orally daily during one week. The budesonide trial included 17 and the prednisolone trial 20 school children. Serum fructosamine, total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein were assessed. Results. Serum fructosamine was increased during active treatment (prednisolone 252.3 μM versus placebo 247.3 μM; P = 0.03 and budesonide 228.1 μM versus no treatment 223.1 μM; P = 0.02). Total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein were not statistically significantly increased. Conclusion. Short-term treatment with oral prednisolone and inhaled budesonide may adversely affect mean blood glucose concentration. Possible long-term consequences require further investigations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/64/PMC3658635.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4620675", "abstract": "Introduction. Rapigest is an acid-labile detergent used in proteomics for the improvement of protein digestion. Materials and method. To test the efficacy of Rapigest for proteomics analysis of different sample types we used protein extracts from S9 cell line and mouse heart tissue and performed protein isolation, digestion and mass spectrometry analysis. Results For the S9 cell line, there was no significant difference concerning the number of identifications (peptides, proteins) between Rapigest and No Rapigest samples, though slightly more peptides and proteins were identified in the Rapigest samples. For the mouse heart tissue samples, Rapigest use resulted in the identification of a higher number of proteins. Rapigest did not modify the protein profile with respect to the biological compartments covered by the identified proteins in S9 cell line samples, but produced a small increase in the representation of cytoplasm proteins and a small decrease in the representation of membrane proteins in the mouse heart tissue samples. Discussions. Results are comparable to other studies that evaluated the efficacy of Rapigest for the analysis of tissue samples, recommending Rapigest for the improvement of protein digestion and implicitly identification, without the modification of the protein profile in the samples. Conclusion. Rapigest may be successfully used for the improvement of protein identification from heart tissue samples using mass spectrometry.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/ac/cm8704p258.PMC4620675.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3206829", "abstract": "Background Owing to frequent administration of a wide range of pharmaceutical products, various environmental waters have been found to be contaminated with pharmacologically active substances. For example, stanozolol, a synthetic anabolic steroid, is frequently misused for performance enhancement as well as for illegal growth promoting purposes in veterinary practice. Previously we reported stanozolol in hair samples collected from subjects living in Budapest. For this reason we initiated this study to explore possible environmental sources of steroid contamination. The aim of this study was to develop a method to monitor stanozolol in aqueous matrices using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results Liquid-liquid extraction using pentane was found to be an efficient method for the extraction of stanozolol from water samples. This was followed by direct detection using LC-MS/MS. The method was capable of detecting 0.25 pg/mL stanozolol when only 5 mL water was processed in the presence of stanozolol D3 as internal standard. Fifteen bottled waters analysed were found to be negative for stanozolol. However, three out of six samples from the Danube river, collected from December '09 to November '10, were found to contain stanozolol at concentrations up to 1.82 pg/mL. In contrast, only one sample (out of six) of urban tap water from Budapest city was found to contain stanozolol, at a concentration of 1.19 pg/mL. Conclusion The method developed is efficient, rapid, reproducible, sensitive and robust for the detection of stanozolol in aqueous matrices.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/80/7f/PMC3206829.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4968495", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study compared the effects of pilates and an exercise program on the craniovertebral angle, cervical range of motion, pain, and muscle fatigue in subjects with a forward head posture (FHP). [Subjects and Methods] A total of 28 sedentary females (age 20 to 39 years) with FHP were randomly assigned to pilates (n=14) and combined (n=14) exercise groups. The study was a randomized, controlled, double-blind study with the two groups performing exercise 50 min/day, 3 days/week, with an intensity of 11–15 rating of perceived exertion (RPE) for ten weeks. The main outcome measures were craniovertebral angle, cervical range of motion (ROM), pain levels assessed by visual analog scale (VAS), and neck disability index (NDI). Surface electromyography was also used to measure muscle fatigue. [Results] There were significant increases in craniovertebral angle and cervical ROM in the pilates group, but none in the control group. The only significant differences in muscle activity were recorded in the sternocleidomastoid muscle in the pilates group. Both exercise programs had positive effects on pain measures, as VAS and NDI were significantly decreased. [Conclusion] The results suggest that pilates could be recommended as an appropriate exercise for treatment of FHP in sedentary individuals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/13/jpts-28-2009.PMC4968495.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3658579", "abstract": "Peptide antibiotics possess the potent antimicrobial activities against invading microorganisms and contribute to the innate host defense. Human antimicrobial peptides, α-defensins (human neutrophil peptides, HNPs), human β-defensins (hBDs), and cathelicidin (LL-37) not only exhibit potent bactericidal activities against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, but also function as immunomodulatory molecules by inducing cytokine and chemokine production, and inflammatory and immune cell activation. Neutrophil is a critical effector cell in host defense against microbial infection, and its lifespan is regulated by various pathogen- and host-derived substances. Here, we provided the evidence that HNP-1, hBD-3, and LL-37 cannot only destroy bacteria but also potently modulate (suppress) neutrophil apoptosis, accompanied with the phosphorylation of ERK-1/-2, the downregulation of tBid (an proapoptotic protein) and upregulation of Bcl-xL (an antiapoptotic protein), and the inhibition of mitochondrial membrane potential change and caspase 3 activity, possibly via the actions on the distinct receptors, the P2Y6 nucleotide receptor, the chemokine receptor CCR6, and the low-affinity formyl-peptide receptor FPRL1/the nucleotide receptor P2X7, respectively. Suppression of neutrophil apoptosis results in the prolongation of their lifespan and may be advantageous for the host defense against bacterial invasion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/83/b3/PMC3658579.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3775639", "abstract": "Objective To evaluate the initial clinical performance of a prototype injection control device (ICD) to facilitate fat grafting by injection. Methods An ICD, which mechanically couples the act of withdrawing the cannula with the act of depressing the plunger, was fabricated for the purpose of facial fat grafting. The action of the device results in deposition of consistent threads of fat having a volume of approximately 33 uL per cm that the cannula is withdrawn, which is slightly less than the internal volume of a 12-gauge cannula. A total of 26 patients underwent 30 procedures, and the results were subjectively evaluated using pre- and postoperative photographs, with a minimum follow-up of 4 months. Results The desired degree of correction was more consistent, recovery was faster, and procedural efficiency was improved when performing the procedure with the ICD compared to historical use of the manual method of injection. Minor irregularities were the only complications encountered. Conclusion The ICD optimally distributes fat as a uniform thread along the withdrawal tract of the cannula, thereby eliminating clumping and minimizing tissue trauma, resulting in reduced recovery time as well as more consistent and predictable clinical results. Since the ICD automates the injection process, it provides a notable and easily attainable efficiency in procedural time and minimal learning curve for the user.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/6e/ccid-6-201.PMC3775639.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3095027", "abstract": "Introduction: Cancer stems from mutations in specific genes that induce uncontrolled cell proliferation. Dendritic cells (DCs) are important immunologic cells and play a crucial role in the induction of an antitumour response. Patients and methods: We examined the immune response mediated by T lymphocytes, helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells, and regulatory T cells, as well as the cytokines [interleukin (IL)-2, IL-12, interferon (IFN)-γ, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-10], produced by these cell populations, in cancer patients (N = 7) undergoing immunotheraphy with autologous DCs. Results: We observed an initial increase in T helper cells (CD4+) expressing IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-12, TNF-α, and IL-10 after initiation of treatment, with statistically significant for the cytokines IL-2, TNF-α and IL-10. A similar significant effect was observed for IL-2-expressing cytotoxic T cells (CD8+). The percentage of total T cells (CD3+) remained elevated throughout immunotherapy. Regulatory T cells (CD25+/FOXP3+) only showed high percentage of their maximum value when analyzed the pretreatment levels, with statistically significant. Conclusion: Immunotherapy with DCs stimulated the immune response, as evidenced by an increase in percent fluorescence of most cell populations investigated during the specified treatment period.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/ec/PMC3095027.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3506061", "abstract": "Iliopsoas muscle hematoma in a patient with alcoholic liver cirrhosis is rarely seen, however it has a high mortality. Thus we should cautiously make a diagnosis and treatment. This is the case of a 60-year-old male. He had a 15-year history of alcoholic liver disease and emphysema. He presented with low back pain after a fall that had happened 2 months before. Due to persistent back pain, he went to see a local physician who, after detailed examination, suspected rupture of bilateral common iliac artery aneurysms and transferred the patient to our hospital. The same presumptive diagnosis was made, and on this basis, an aortic bifemoral Y-graft was implanted. He developed aspiration pneumonia and hepatic and renal dysfunction postoperatively, which led to multiple organ failure and subsequent in-hospital death on postoperative day 62. This was believed to be a case of iliopsoas muscle hematoma developed in a patient with liver cirrhosis, and considering it was a case with poor surgical risk, a conservative treatment option such as transcatheter arterial embolization should also have been considered. Although iliopsoas muscle hematoma with alcoholic liver cirrhosis is rare, an appropriate treatment plan should be determined on a case-by-case basis despite its poor prognosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/3b/crg-0006-0704.PMC3506061.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3558307", "abstract": "Despite the high response rate to first-line treatment of advanced ovarian cancer, the vast majority of patients relapse. Maximal debulking surgery and chemotherapy with a platinum doublet have remained the standard of care for many years and new approaches are imperative. Recent clinical trials have given grounds for hope. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy, intraperitoneal delivery, and dose-dense strategies have all shown promising results, as has the targeting of angiogenesis. A greater understanding of the molecular landscape of ovarian cancer is helping to identify new treatment options. In this review, we will highlight the key trials and recent progress in these areas.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/ec/PMC3558307.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4329718", "abstract": "A 19-year-old male with congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy (CHED) presented with severe bilateral corneal clouding precluding any view of the intraocular structures. He underwent modified Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) technique including a suture pull-through technique to prevent lens damage. Surgery resulted in progressive clearing of the cornea and decreased corneal thickness. Visual acuity increased from hand motions preoperatively to counting fingers at 4 m after 4 months. DSAEK can be successfully performed in phakic eyes with CHED as an alternative to penetrating keratoplasty. It has the advantage of less wound problems and better preservation of globe integrity especially in children.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/51/JOVR-9-522.PMC4329718.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5086472", "abstract": "Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) has been reported as a rare cause of spinal cord compression, especially in children. Clinical features are usually nonspecific, although cervicothoracic location of hematoma could be presented with progressive paraplegia. Guillian-Barré syndrome (GBS) is clinically defined as an acute peripheral neuropathy causing progressive limb weakness. Because SSEH and GBS have very similar signs and symptoms, SSEH could be misdiagnosed as GBS. Nevertheless, they can be presented together. We describe a rare case of SSEH coexisting with GBS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7a/b4/kjs-13-167.PMC5086472.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3364563", "abstract": "Ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI) is a parameter obtained from ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) that correlates with clinical endpoints. The aim of this study was to compare AASI in nondiabetic hypertensive patients with and without chronic kidney disease (CKD). Subjects with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH, n = 30) with normal renal function, aged 40 to 75 years, were compared to hypertensive patients with CKD (n = 30) presenting estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min by MDRD formula. ABPM was carried out in all patients. In CKD group, eGFR was 35.3 ± 2.8 ml/min. The mean 24-hour systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) was similar in both groups. AASI was significantly higher in CKD group (0.45 ± 0.03 versus 0.37 ± 0.02, P < 0.05), positively correlated to age (r = 0.38, P < 0.01) and pulse pressure (r = 0.43, P < 0.01) and negatively correlated to nocturnal BP fall (r = -0.28, P = 0.03). These findings indicate the presence of stiffer vessels in CKD hypertensive patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/2a/PMC3364563.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2817867", "abstract": "Recently some have called for randomized controlled trials comparing RFA to hepatic resection, particularly for patients with only a few small metastases. The objectives were to compare local recurrence and survival following RFA and hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastases. This was a retrospective review of open RFA and hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastases between January 1998 and May 2007. All patients who had RFA were considered to have unresectable disease. 58 patients had hepatic resection and 43 had RFA. A 5-year survival after resection was 43", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/4e/PMC2817867.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4768566", "abstract": "Patients suffering from end-stage kidney disease often complain about pain. It is also known that the presence of chronic pain greatly impacts upon patients’ quality of life (QOL) and can play a crucial role in the co-morbidity of mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety. The main aim of this study protocol is the investigation of pain self-efficacy, QOL as well as their relation in patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment. The final sample size will be around 70-80 patients. Each subject’s QOL and pain self-efficacy will be measured using the following instruments: i) the Missoula- ITAS Quality of Life Index-15 and ii) the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire. QOL is expected to be related to pain self-efficacy scores. This probable association will be indicated performing regression as well as correlation analysis after controlling for gender, age, education and marital status.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/47/75/hpr-2013-3-e30.PMC4768566.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4942515", "abstract": "The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a commonly available basic diagnostic modality in in-patient, out-patient, and emergency departments. In patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), the presence of a fragmented QRS (f-QRS), which is an extra R wave (R′), notching of the single R wave, notching of the S wave in at least two contiguous leads on the 12-lead ECG, is associated with a myocardial scar from previous myocardial injury. Furthermore, the presence of f-QRS has been shown to be associated with adverse outcomes in CAD and non-CAD patients. In the present paper, we will solely focus on the usefulness and utilization of f-QRS in predicting ventricular tachyarrhythmia in many heart diseases, that is, ischemic cardiomyopathy, non-ischemic cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, Brugada syndrome, and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. In the majority of such cases, ventricular tachyarrhythmia results in sudden cardiac death. Diagnosing them beforehand can lead to prevention and/or early treatment of these arrhythmias to prevent potential morbidity and mortality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/f2/JCHIMP-6-31235.PMC4942515.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4219194", "abstract": "Stent thrombosis is a major limitation of stent-assisted coiling, which is an effective method for treating wide-necked aneurysms. Although early in-stent thrombosis has been reported, very late stent thrombosis (VLST) (>1 year) has not been reported following implantation of a single self-expandable stent designed for coiling. Herein, the authors present a case of VLST that occurred 14 months after single stent implantation in a large paraclinoid aneurysm with an ultra-wide neck involving the parent artery circumferentially. This case indicates the need for establishing guidelines regarding the optimal duration of prophylactic antiplatelet therapy following stent-assisted coiling, which remains undefined in the neuroendovascular field.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/6e/jkns-56-344.PMC4219194.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3310584", "abstract": "In October 2010, Hôpital Albert Schweitzer Haiti treated some of the first patients with cholera in Haiti. Over the following 10 months, a strategic plan was developed and implemented to improve the management of cases at the hospital level and to address the underlying risk factors at the community level.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c0/03/PMC3310584.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5077265", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to identify clinical and demographic factors associated with misalignment after first surgery performed on children affected by infantile esotropia to evaluate the reoperation rate. A retrospective study was carried out, analyzing data from 525 children who underwent bilateral medial recti recession, bilateral lateral recti resection, and inferior oblique recession and anteroposition by the same surgeon (AM). Postoperative evaluation included assessment of motor alignment at approximately 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years. Statistical analysis was performed with a logistical regression model in which the dependent variable was the presence/absence of reoperation. We found that late surgery (after 3 years of age) and a family history of strabismus are associated with a higher risk of reoperation, while some clinical factors, including some classically associated with worst motor outcome as preoperative angle, dissociated vertical deviation, and amblyopia, did not influence the incidence of reoperation in infantile esotropia. Male patients and patients with hyperopia in preoperative examinations have a significantly decreased reoperation rate.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/62/opth-10-2079.PMC5077265.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4608516", "abstract": "Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Professor Mark Peczuh at the University of Connecticut. The cover picture compares the rearrangement of a small molecule to the process of turning a stuffed animal inside out. The recycled, inside-out stuffed animals are both artistic and philosophically provocative. They capture the essence of the rearrangement reaction because the compounds themselves turn inside out over the course of the reaction, extending the diversity of products that can arise from simple starting materials. Small molecules often have functional groups with latent reactivity; under the appropriate conditions, those groups can react with other compounds (e.g., reagents) and also with other groups in the same molecule in an intramolecular reaction. The research team found that the epoxidation of some highly functionalized spiroketal compounds promoted rearrangements of their structures that turned them inside out. Some of the features of the products led them to use X-ray crystallography or a combination of computer-assisted structure elucidation, computation, and a new version of the 1,1-ADEQUATE NMR experiment to determine their structures. For more details, see the Communication on p. 577 ff.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/24/de/PMC4608516.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3751385", "abstract": "Marijuana is the most widely used recreational drug in the US. Hyperemetic hydrophilic syndrome is a previously described but infrequently recognized condition of cannabinoid abuse with hyperemesis and obsessive hot showering. We present a 47-year-old male known marijuana addict with intractable abdominal pain who could not wait for physical examination, meal, or medication, because of obsessive compulsive warm baths. He had a history of epilepsy and addiction to marijuana, which he took on the day of admission. He presented to the hospital with a seizure, complicated by nausea, vomiting, and severe abdominal pain. His examination was unremarkable, except for mild epigastric tenderness. His laboratory and radiological tests were within normal limits, except for a positive urine drug screen for marijuana and opiates. He took himself immediately to the bathroom and remained under a hot shower with the exception of two 15-minute breaks for the rest of the day. He stated that it made him feel better than medication. Receiving medication and even eating was a problem because of this compulsive showering. Abstinence from marijuana during the hospital stay made the patient’s nausea and vomiting resolve significantly. Cannabinoid hyperemesis is a differential diagnosis among patients with intractable nausea, vomiting, and obsessive hot bathing. The syndrome is an unmistakable indication of marijuana addiction. A thorough history and observation is very valuable. Recognition of this entity will reduce unnecessary testing and utilization of health care resources.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/f3/ijgm-6-685.PMC3751385.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3503306", "abstract": "Cardiac arrest has been described in children with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Aim. To evaluate QTc and QTd in type 1 diabetic children with DKA. Methods. Twelve-lead ECG was done to 30 type 1 diabetic children with DKA at presentation and recovery. Corrected QT interval and QT dispersion (QTd) were assessed. Results. QTc and QTd mean values were significantly decreased in patients after than before DKA recovery (P < 0.01). Procedure. Sixteen patients (53, 3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/6d/PMC3503306.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4731567", "abstract": "A 19-year-old man presented with long lasting significant back and bilateral leg pain, and hypoesthesia on the lateral side of both his thighs for which he had undergone several courses of medication and bouts of physical therapy treatment. His urodynamic parameters were normal and lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a low-lying conus at the L2-3 level with a thickened fatty filum, and he was diagnosed as having tethered cord syndrome (TCS). The patient underwent a fully endoscopic detethering through an interlaminar approach with intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring. The thickened filum terminale was located and then the filum was coagulated and cut. The patient showed a significant improvement in his preoperative symptoms, and reported no problems at 2-year follow-up. Detethering of the spinal cord in tethered cord syndrome using a fully endoscopic interlaminar approach provides the advantages of minimal damage to tissues, less postoperative discomfort, early postoperative recovery, and a shorter hospitalization.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d4/65/kjs-12-287.PMC4731567.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4255135", "abstract": "We present a unique presentation of Crohn's disease in a 25-year-old male with a 3-month history of progressive gastric outlet obstruction symptoms including reflux, vomiting, postprandial pain and weight loss, with no other symptoms. Multiple imaging investigations as well as gastroscopic biopsies revealed a non-specific prepyloric lesion, without evidence of malignancy. A distal gastrectomy was performed. Subsequent histological evaluation revealed gastroduodenal Crohn's disease. Follow-up revealed no evidence of disease elsewhere in the gastrointestinal system or systemically. While it is not uncommon for Crohn's disease to involve the stomach and duodenum, it is rare for gastroduodenal disease to be the initial presentation. Isolated gastroduodenal Crohn's disease typically presents with non-specific gastritis-like symptoms over a number of years. This patient had a unique course of Crohn's disease with rapid onset of symptoms, predominantly relating to gastric outlet obstruction and no prior or subsequent history of gastrointestinal symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/ef/rju128.PMC4255135.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4855031", "abstract": " Objective. Nondiabetic obese individuals have subclinical involvement of peripheral nerves. We report the factors predicting peripheral nerve function in overweight and obese nondiabetic Nepalese individuals. Methodology. In this cross-sectional study, we included 50 adult overweight and obese nondiabetic volunteers without features of peripheral neuropathy and 50 healthy volunteers to determine the normative nerve conduction data. In cases of abnormal function, the study population was classified on the basis of the number of nerves involved, namely, “<2” or “≥2.” Multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out to predict outcomes. Results. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) was the significant predictor of motor nerve dysfunction (P = 0.039, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cf/e6/PMC4855031.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2828091", "abstract": "Q fever is an emerging infectious disease among US soldiers serving in Iraq. Three patients have had atypical manifestations, including 2 patients with acute cholecystitis and 1 patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Providers must be aware of Q fever’s signs and symptoms to avoid delays in treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/13/PMC2828091.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4361751", "abstract": "Lipid apheresis is at present well established in routine treatment of diverse hyperlipoproteinemias refractory to conventional dietary and medical regimens, especially in countries with high medical and socioeconomic standards. Severe familial hypercholesterolemia with atherosclerotic vessel disease involving the coronary arteries is the most frequent indication for lipid apheresis as well as homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia before the development of cardiovascular complications. In hyperlipoproteinemia (a) with progressive vessel disease, lipid apheresis is regularly accepted in Germany. The indication of apheresis in Refsum’s disease and the chylomicronemia syndrome is described.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/41/c9/PMC4361751.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3065581", "abstract": "Objective: To compare treatment persistence and costs with 3 glaucoma treatment sequences (first-line/second-line): latanoprost/latanoprost–timolol (LLT), bimatoprost/bimatoprost–timolol (BBT), and travoprost/travoprost–timolol (TTT), derived from the UK General Practitioner Research Database (UK-GPRD). Methods: Patient records referring to ocular hypertension, topical glaucoma treatment, surgery, or laser therapy were extracted. Patients prescribed LLT, BBT, or TTT sequences were selected. Treatment failure was inferred from glaucoma prescription change (adding or removing a topical treatment, surgery, or laser therapy). Treatment durations preceding failure were compared by applying Wilcoxon’s test to survival curves. Adjustment on confounding variables was performed with a Cox model and a propensity score method. Unit costs were estimated from a UK National Health Service perspective. Results: A total of 1592 patients received LLT, 110 BBT, and 114 TTT. Their mean age was 68 years and the sex ratio almost 1 male:1 female. No significant demographic or comorbidity differences were observed between treatment sequences. Treatment persistence at 36 months was achieved in 60.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/81/PMC3065581.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3600296", "abstract": "Cancer is nowadays considered to be both a genetic and an epigenetic disease. The most well studied epigenetic modification in humans is DNA methylation; however it becomes increasingly acknowledged that DNA methylation does not work alone, but rather is linked to other modifications, such as histone modifications. Epigenetic abnormalities are reversible and as a result novel therapies that work by reversing epigenetic effects are being increasingly explored. The biggest clinical impact of epigenetic modifying agents in neoplastic disorders thus far has been in haematological malignancies, and the efficacy of DNMT inhibitors and HDAC inhibitors in blood cancers clearly attests to the principle that therapeutic modification of the cancer cell epigenome can produce clinical benefit. This paper will discuss the most well studied epigenetic modifications and how these are linked to cancer, will give a brief overview of the clinical use of epigenetics as biomarkers, and will focus in more detail on epigenetic drugs and their use in solid and blood cancers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3a/de/PMC3600296.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3929513", "abstract": " Introduction. Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive cancer arising from pleural mesothelium. Surgery aims to either cure the disease or control the symptoms. Two surgical procedures exist: extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) and pleurectomy/decortication (P/D). In this systematic review we assess current evidence on safety and efficacy of surgery. Methods. Five electronic databases were reviewed from January 1990 to January 2013. Studies were selected according to a predefined protocol. Primary endpoint was overall survival. Secondary endpoints included quality of life, disease-free survival, disease recurrence, morbidity, and length of hospital stay. Results. Sixteen studies were included. Median survival ranged from 8.1 to 32 months for P/D and from 6.9 to 46.9 months for EPP. Perioperative mortality was 0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/72/94/PMC3929513.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4062205", "abstract": "We report a case of cardiac rhabdomyosarcoma, with initial clinical features of “atrial rhythmic dysfunction”, which was concluded as a mediastinal tumor by computed tomography (CT) scan. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and EUS-FNA (fine needle aspiration) were initially conducted to diagnose the isolated mediastinal mass. In this case, EUS re-assessed the previous diagnosis as a cardiac tumor, and the patient eventually achieved a 17-month survival rate after chemotherapy. In this paper, EUS findings obtained in our case are described and a review of literatures is briefly discussed. We also describe the advantages and limitations of this technique compared with other image diagnosis alternatives.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/9a/EUS-1-56.PMC4062205.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3321480", "abstract": "The dichloromethane (DCM) extract of Andrographis paniculata Nees was tested for cardiovascular activity. The extract significantly reduced coronary perfusion pressure by up to 24.5 ± 3.0 mm Hg at a 3 mg dose and also reduced heart rate by up to 49.5 ± 11.4 beats/minute at this dose. Five labdane diterpenes, 14-deoxy-12-hydroxyandrographolide (1), 14-deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide (2), 14-deoxyandrographolide (3), andrographolide (4), and neoandrographolide (5), were isolated from the aerial parts of this medicinal plant. Bioassay-guided studies using animal model showed that compounds, (2) and (3) were responsible for the coronary vasodilatation. This study also showed that andrographolide (4), the major labdane diterpene in this plant, has minimal effects on the heart.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/73/PMC3321480.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC137378", "abstract": "Healthcare and prehospital workers involved in disaster response are susceptible to a variety of stress-related psychological and physical sequelae. Critical incident stress management, of which critical incident stress debriefing is a component, can mitigate the response to these stressors. Critical incident stress debriefing is a peer-driven, therapist-guided, structured, group intervention designed to accelerate the recovery of personnel. The attack on the World Trade Center, and the impact it may have on rescue, prehospital, and healthcare workers, should urge us to incorporate critical incident stress management into disaster management plans.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/32/a6/PMC137378.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649330", "abstract": "Intestinal Entamoeba Histolytica infection in the UK is rare but it can lead to colitis, abscess formation, colonic perforation and rarely amoeboma. Although most patients are asymptomatic, it can present with a wide range of gastrointestinal symptoms depending on the phase of the infection. We present a case of amoebic colitis that caused diagnostic uncertainty by mimicking a colonic carcinoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2b/13/PMC3649330.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3804664", "abstract": "Mycotic aneurysms are rare inflammatory neurovascular lesions. Ruptured mycotic aneurysm manifesting as subdural hematoma is extremely rare. A 72-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital with headache and drowsiness. Computer tomography (CT) of brain and CT angiography revealed subdural hematoma and an aneurysm located at the M4 segment of the left middle cerebral artery (MCA). Cerebral angiogram revealed 2 aneurysms; one located at the left distal MCA and the other at the bifurcation of left MCA. Laboratory studies showed leukocytosis and elevated inflammatory factors. The patent was treated with antibiotic therapy for 4 weeks. The follow-up CT and cerebral angiography showed that the mycotic aneurysm was completely resolved, and the patient was nearly free of symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/b9/jcen-15-235.PMC3804664.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3076567", "abstract": "PURPOSE This study investigated the influence of bone quality and surgical technique on the implant stability quotient (ISQ) value. In addition, the influence of interfacial bone quality, directly surrounding the implant fixture, on the resonance frequency of the structure was also evaluated by the finite element analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two different types of bone (type 1 and type 2) were extracted and trimmed from pig rib bone. In each type of bone, the same implants were installed in three different ways: (1) Compaction, (2) Self-tapping, and (3) Tapping. The ISQ value was measured and analyzed to evaluate the influence of bone quality and surgical technique on the implant primary stability. For finite element analysis, a three dimensional implant fixture-bone structure was designed and the fundamental resonance frequency of the structure was measured with three different density of interfacial bone surrounding the implant fixture. RESULTS In each group, the ISQ values were higher in type 1 bone than those in type 2 bone. Among three different insertion methods, the Tapping group showed the lowest ISQ value in both type 1 and type 2 bones. In both bone types, the Compaction groups showed slightly higher mean ISQ values than the Self-tapping groups, but the differences were not statistically significant. Increased interfacial bone density raised the resonance frequency value in the finite element analysis. CONCLUSION Both bone quality and surgical technique have influence on the implant primary stability, and resonance frequency has a positive relation with the density of implant fixture-surrounding bone.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/76/f3/jap-3-10.PMC3076567.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3414200", "abstract": "Ulcerative colitis (UC) is debilitating and carries a high colon cancer risk. Apoptosis of inflammatory cells is a key mechanism regulating UC. We have recently shown that American ginseng (AG), and to a greater extent, a Hexane fraction of AG (HAG) can cause apoptosis and suppress mouse colitis through a p53-mediated mechanism. Here, we tested the hypothesis that HAG suppresses colitis through a p53 mechanism. We found only a limited impact of p53 in the ability of HAG to induce inflammatory cell apoptosis and suppress mouse colitis in vitro and in vivo. Finally, we asked whether HAG could cause cell cycle arrest of HCT116 colon cancer cells in vitro. Interestingly, HAG caused a G1 arrest of such cells independent of p53 status. Findings are significant because HAG suppresses colitis and associated colon cancer, and mutation in p53 is observed in most colitis-driven colon cancers. Therefore, HAG might be very effective in targeting the inflammatory cells and cancer cells since it induces apoptosis of inflammatory cells and cell cycle arrest in both p53−/− and WT p53 colon cancer cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8e/21/PMC3414200.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4009596", "abstract": "Introduction Hypothermic circulatory arrest for adult aortic arch repair is still high-risk. Despite decades of clinical experience, significant practice variations exist around the world. These practice variations in hypothermic circulatory arrest may offer multiple opportunities to improve practice. The hypothesis of this study was that the current conduct of adult hypothermic circulatory arrest in Europe has significant variations that might suggest opportunities for risk reduction. Methods An adult hypothermic circulatory arrest questionnaire was developed and then administered at thoracic aortic sessions at international conferences during 2010 in Beijing and Milan. The data was collected, abstracted and analyzed. Results The majority of the 105 respondents were anesthesiologists based in Europe and China. The typical adult aortic arch repair in Europe was with hypothermic circulatory arrest at moderate hypothermia utilizing bilateral antegrade cerebral perfusion, typically monitored with radial arterial pressure and cerebral oximetry. Brain temperature was frequently measured at distal locations. The preferred neuroprotective agents were steroids, propofol and thiopental. Conclusions The opportunities for outcome improvement in this emerging European paradigm of tepid adult aortic arch repair include nasal/tympanic temperature measurement and adoption of unilateral antegrade cerebral perfusion monitored with radial artery pressure and cerebral oximetry. The publication of an evidence-based consensus would enhance these practice-improvement opportunities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/36/af/hlv-06-043.PMC4009596.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3700514", "abstract": "Ion beam therapy, as an emerging radiation therapy modality, requires continuous efforts to develop and improve tools for patient treatment planning (TP) and research applications. Dose and fluence computation algorithms using the Monte Carlo (MC) technique have served for decades as reference tools for accurate dose computations for radiotherapy. In this work, a novel MC-based treatment-planning (MCTP) tool for ion beam therapy using the pencil beam scanning technique is presented. It allows single-field and simultaneous multiple-fields optimization for realistic patient treatment conditions and for dosimetric quality assurance for irradiation conditions at state-of-the-art ion beam therapy facilities. It employs iterative procedures that allow for the optimization of absorbed dose and relative biological effectiveness (RBE)-weighted dose using radiobiological input tables generated by external RBE models. Using a re-implementation of the local effect model (LEM), the MCTP tool is able to perform TP studies using ions with atomic numbers Z ≤ 8. Example treatment plans created with the MCTP tool are presented for carbon ions in comparison with a certified analytical treatment-planning system. Furthermore, the usage of the tool to compute and optimize mixed-ion treatment plans, i.e. plans including pencil beams of ions with different atomic numbers, is demonstrated. The tool is aimed for future use in research applications and to support treatment planning at ion beam facilities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/40/rrt050.PMC3700514.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4432626", "abstract": "Photonic microsystems played an essential role in the development of integrated photonic devices, thanks to their unique spatiotemporal control and spectral shaping capabilities. Similar capabilities to markedly control and manipulate X-ray radiation are highly desirable but practically impossible due to the massive size of the silicon single-crystal optics currently used. Here we show that micromechanical systems can be used as X-ray optics to create and preserve the spatial, temporal and spectral correlation of the X-rays. We demonstrate that, as X-ray reflective optics they can maintain the wavefront properties with nearly 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ff/ee/ncomms8057.PMC4432626.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3210843", "abstract": "The present study was performed to describe 2 cases of human thelaziasis (HT) which occurred in Gyeongsangnam- do and to briefly review the previously reported Korean cases. A 58-year old woman, residing in Hadong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, came to Gyeongsang National University Hospital (GNUH) complaining of foreign body sensation and itching of the right eye in March 2000. Total 6 adult nematodes of Thelazia callipaeda (2 males and 4 females) were detected in her right eye. A 80-year old man, residing in Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, came to GNUH complaining of foreign body sensation, itching, and pain of the right eye in December 2007. A total of 5 worms (4 females and 1 degenerated) were removed from his right eye. We analyzed characteristics of the total 39 Korean HT cases reported to date, including the present 2 cases. Most of the cases (71.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/df/cd/kjp-49-265.PMC3210843.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3086286", "abstract": "Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is frequently characterized by obesity and metabolic diseases including hypertension, insulin resistance, and diabetes in adulthood, all leading to an increased risk of atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to evaluate serum and production of inflammatory markers in adolescent Sardinian PCOS. On the basis of HOMA findings, patients were divided into noninsulin resistant (NIR) and insulin resistant (IR), and were weight- and age-matched with healthy girls. Inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, Il-10, TGF-β) and lipokines (leptin, adiponectin), the reactant hs-CRP, and in vitro inflammatory lympho-monocyte response to microbial stimulus were evaluated. In healthy and PCOS subjects, leptin and hs-CRP were correlated with BMI, whereas adiponectin was significantly reduced in all PCOS groups. Although cytokines were similar in all groups, Interleukin-6 (IL-6) was significantly higher in IR PCOS. Moreover, in the latter group lipopolysaccharide-activated monocytes secreted significantly higher levels of IL-6 compared to NIR and control subjects. To conclude, IR PCOS displayed increased IL-6 serum levels and higher secretion in LPS-activated monocytes, whilst revealing no differences for other inflammatory cytokines. These results suggest that in PCOS patients an altered immune response to inflammatory stimuli is present in IR, likely contributing towards determining onset of a low grade inflammation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f2/a1/PMC3086286.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3670129", "abstract": "The level of transcription factor activity critically regulates cell fate decisions such as hematopoietic stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. The balance between hematopoietic stem cell self-renewal and differentiation needs to be tightly controlled, as a shift toward differentiation might exhaust the stem cell pool, while a shift toward self-renewal might mark the onset of leukemic transformation. A number of transcription factors have been proposed to be critically involved in governing stem cell fate and lineage commitment, such as Hox transcription factors, c-Myc, Notch1, β-catenin, C/ebpα, Pu.1 and STAT5. It is therefore no surprise that dysregulation of these transcription factors can also contribute to the development of leukemias. This review will discuss the role of STAT5 in both normal and leukemic hematopoietic stem cells as well as mechanisms by which STAT5 might contribute to the development of human leukemias.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e7/16/jkst-1-13.PMC3670129.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5089096", "abstract": "Abstract Introduction: Atrial-esophageal fistula (AEF) is a rare severe disease, which may be associated with radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) or intraoperative radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation (IRAAF). Clinical Findings: We reported a case of a 67-year-old man with AEF following RFCA of AF, who treated with esophageal stenting and surgical repair. Outcomes: He was attacked by out-of-control sepsis and infectious shock after surgery and died. Literature review: We analyzed 57 relevant articles about AEF from 2003 to 2015 by searching PubMed database. According literatures, the most common symptoms were fever, rigor, sepsis, and neurologic symptoms. Chest computer tomography (CT) and contrast enhanced CT may be the reliable noninvasive diagnosis methods because of high sensitive for AEF. Conclusion: Make a definition diagnosis in time with early primary surgical repair may save their lives. Conservative treatment or esophageal stenting alone may not be a better choice for AEF patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/c6/medi-95-e5134.PMC5089096.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4833998", "abstract": "Background: Depression is often comorbid with chronic somatic diseases. Few previous studies have investigated the prevalence of somatic diseases in depression or the prescription pattern of antidepressants in comorbidly depressed patients in Asia. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of somatic comorbidity (SC) in depression and compared the prescriptions of antidepressants in depressed patients with and without SC. Methods: A total of 2320 patients treated with antidepressants in 8 Asian countries were examined, and a diagnosis was based on the International Classification of Disease, 10th revision. We listed 17 common chronic somatic diseases. Patients’ socio-demographic and clinical characteristics and psychotropic drug prescriptions were recorded using a standardized protocol and data collection procedure. Results: Of the patients examined, 1240 were diagnosed with depression and 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/34/CMJ-128-853.PMC4833998.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4948176", "abstract": "Background: Numerous barriers and challenges can hinder the successful enrollment and retention of study participants in clinical trials targeting minority populations. To conduct quality research, it is important to investigate these challenges, determine appropriate strategies that are evidence-based and continue seeking methods of improvement. Methods: In this paper, we report such experiences in a registered clinical trial in an underserved minority population in the Southern part of United States. This research study is a randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial that tests the efficacy of higher-strength as compared to low-strength/standard of care folic acid to prevent fetal body and brain size reduction in pregnant women who smoke. A unique approach in this socio-behavioral, genetic-epigenetic clinical trial is that we have adopted the socio-ecological model as a functional platform to effectively achieve and maintain high participant recruitment and retention rates. Results: We highlight the barriers we have encountered in our trial and describe how we have successfully applied the socio-ecological model to overcome these obstacles. Conclusions and Global Health Implications: Our positive experience will be of utility to other researchers globally. Our fi ndings have far-reaching implications as the socio-ecological model approach is adaptable to developed and developing regions and has the potential to increase recruitment and retention of hard-to-reach populations who are typically under-represented in clinical trials.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/63/b3/IJMA-3-85.PMC4948176.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4701108", "abstract": "Introduction: Intraosseous ganglions, although share same pathology as the soft tissue ganglions are rare entities, further rare in carpals. Cases of intraosseous ganglions are reported in literature mostly in lower limbs and lunate among carpals, with treatment options ranging from curettage and grafting to calcium phosphate cement injection and finally to arthroscopic treatment. Case report: Here, we present a case of 2 years follow up of 40 years old female with nonspecific clinical finding of wrist and slight limitation of restriction of motion, diagnosed as intraosseous ganglion cyst of scaphoid. This case was treated with curettage and bone grafting having excellent results with visual and analog pain scores reduced from 68 to 11 and range of motion was 90° extension to 80° flexion and full grip strength. Conclusion: Intraosseous ganglion cyst should be considered in differential diagnosis of chronic dull wrist pain because they produce disabling symptoms which ceases once adequately treated by curettage and bone grafting.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/d0/JOCR-1-7.PMC4701108.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3523542", "abstract": "Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are multidisciplinary liver diseases that often accompany type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome, which are characterized by insulin resistance. Therefore, effective treatment of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome should target not only the cardiometabolic abnormalities, but also the associated liver disorders. In the last decade, it has been shown that metformin, thiazolidinediones, vitamin E, ezetimibe, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockers, and antiobesity drugs may improve hepatic pathophysiological disorders as well as clinical parameters. Accordingly, insulin sensitizers, antioxidative agents, Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1) inhibitors, RAS blockers, and drugs that target the central nervous system may represent candidate pharmacotherapies for NAFLD and possibly NASH. However, the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of long-term treatment (potentially for many years) with these drugs have not been fully established. Furthermore, clinical trials have not comprehensively examined the efficacy of lipid-lowering drugs (i.e., statins, fibrates, and NPC1L1 inhibitors) for the treatment of NAFLD. Although clinical evidence for RAS blockers and incretin-based agents (GLP-1 analogs and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors) is also lacking, these agents are promising in terms of their insulin-sensitizing and anti-inflammatory effects without causing weight gain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/95/08/PMC3523542.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5400191", "abstract": "Study Design: This study was a retrospective, multicenter cohort study. Objectives: Rare complications of cervical spine surgery are inherently difficult to investigate. Pseudomeningocoele (PMC), an abnormal collection of cerebrospinal fluid that communicates with the subarachnoid space, is one such complication. In order to evaluate and better understand the incidence, presentation, treatment, and outcome of PMC following cervical spine surgery, we conducted a multicenter study to pool our collective experience. Methods: This study was a retrospective, multicenter cohort study of patients who underwent cervical spine surgery at any level(s) from C2 to C7, inclusive; were over 18 years of age; and experienced a postoperative PMC. Results: Thirteen patients (0.08", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/ed/10.1177_2192568216687769.PMC5400191.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2738489", "abstract": "We used a dynamic hydrology model to simulate water table depth (WTD) and quantify the relationship between Saint Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV) transmission and hydrologic conditions in Indian River County, Florida, from 1986 through 1991, a period with an SLEV epidemic. Virus transmission followed periods of modeled drought (specifically low WTDs 12 to 17 weeks before virus transmission, followed by a rising of the water table 1 to 2 weeks before virus transmission). Further evidence from collections of Culex nigripalpus (the major mosquito vector of SLEV in Florida) suggests that during extended spring droughts vector mosquitoes and nestling, juvenile, and adult wild birds congregate in selected refuges, facilitating epizootic amplification of SLEV. When the drought ends and habitat availability increases, the SLEV-infected Cx. nigripalpus and wild birds disperse, initiating an SLEV transmission cycle. These findings demonstrate a mechanism by which drought facilitates the amplification of SLEV and its subsequent transmission to humans.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c9/a9/PMC2738489.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3962578", "abstract": "Endogenous endophthalmitis is a rare and severe intraocular infection which can be vision-threatening. We describe a case of bilateral fungal endogenous endophthalmitis in a 64-year-old male which was successfully treated with systemic administration of fluconazole followed by pars plana vitrectomy with an intravitreous injection of amphotericin B.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/95/a3/PMC3962578.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2911750", "abstract": "The interesting study by Davis and colleagues in the current issue of Critical Care expands on the increasingly recognized role of angiopoietins in human sepsis but raises a number of questions, which are discussed in this commentary. The authors describe an association between elevated angiopoietin (ang)-2 levels and impaired vascular reactivity, measured by the partly nitric oxide-dependent finger hyperemic response to forearm vascular occlusion, in patients with sepsis. This suggests that the ang-1/2-Tie2 system is involved in a number of pathophysiologic, phenotypic and perhaps prognostic alterations in human sepsis, on top of the effect on pulmonary endothelial barrier function. The novel inflammatory route may be a target for future therapeutic studies in human sepsis and acute lung injury, including those with activated protein C.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/46/PMC2911750.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4703933", "abstract": "Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the current management status of patients with urological issues and to examine the level of knowledge and practice behaviors regarding urinary incontinence (UI) among Korean healthcare providers in long-term care hospitals. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional descriptive design with a written questionnaire to assess knowledge and practice behaviors of 756 healthcare providers in 11 long-term care hospitals in Korean metropolitan areas. Results: A total 42.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/21/inj-19-4-259.PMC4703933.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4644776", "abstract": "PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the biaxial flexural strength (BFS) of one zirconia-based ceramic used with various veneering ceramics. MATERIALS AND METHODS Zirconia core material (Katana) and five veneering ceramics (Cerabien ZR; CZR, Lava Ceram; LV, Cercon Ceram Kiss; CC, IPS e.max Ceram; EM and VITA VM9; VT) were selected. Using the powder/liquid layering technique, bilayered disk specimens (diameter: 12.50 mm, thickness: 1.50 mm) were prepared to follow ISO standard 6872:2008 into five groups according to veneering ceramics as follows; Katana zirconia veneering with CZR (K/CZR), Katana zirconia veneering with LV (K/LV), Katana zirconia veneering with CC (K/CC), Katana zirconia veneering with EM (K/EM) and Katana zirconia veneering with VT (K/VT). After 20,000 thermocycling, load tests were conducted using a universal testing machine (Instron). The BFS were calculated and analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD (α=0.05). The Weibull analysis was performed for reliability of strength. The mode of fracture and fractured surface were observed by SEM. RESULTS It showed that K/CC had significantly the highest BFS, followed by K/LV. BFS of K/CZR, K/EM and K/VT were not significantly different from each other, but were significantly lower than the other two groups. Weibull distribution reported the same trend of reliability as the BFS results. CONCLUSION From the result of this study, the BFS of the bilayered zirconia/veneer composite did not only depend on the Young's modulus value of the materials. Further studies regarding interfacial strength and sintering factors are necessary to achieve the optimal strength.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/5c/jap-7-358.PMC4644776.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3722616", "abstract": "A cell-based high-throughput screen to identify small molecular weight stimulators of the innate immune system revealed substituted pyrimido[5,4-b]indoles as potent NFκB activators. The most potent hit compound selectively stimulated Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in human and mouse cells. Synthetic modifications of the pyrimido[5,4-b]indole scaffold at the carboxamide, N-3, and N-5 positions revealed differential TLR4 dependent production of NFκB and type I interferon associated cytokines, IL-6 and interferon γ-induced protein 10 (IP-10) respectively. Specifically, a subset of compounds bearing phenyl and substituted phenyl carboxamides induced lower IL-6 release while maintaining higher IP-10 production, skewing toward the type I interferon pathway. Substitution at N-5 with short alkyl substituents reduced the cytotoxicity of the leading hit compound. Computational studies supported that active compounds appeared to bind primarily to MD-2 in the TLR4/MD-2 complex. These small molecules, which stimulate innate immune cells with minimal toxicity, could potentially be used as adjuvants or immune modulators.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/79/c3/PMC3722616.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3265102", "abstract": "The cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) plays an important role in visual cortical plasticity that follows the disruption of sensory activity, as induced by dark rearing (DR). Recent findings indicate that the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) of thalamus is also sensitive to altered sensory activity. DR disrupts retinogeniculate synaptic strength and pruning in mice, but only when DR starts one week after eye opening (delayed DR, DDR) and not after chronic DR (CDR) from birth. While DR upregulates CREB in visual cortex, whether it also modulates this pathway in dLGN remains unknown. Here we investigate the role of CREB in the dLGN of mice that were CDR or DDR using western blot and immunofluorescence. Similar to findings in visual cortex, CREB is upregulated in dLGN after CDR and DDR. These findings are consistent with the proposal that DR up-regulates the CREB pathway in response to decreased visual drive.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/48/75/PMC3265102.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4141746", "abstract": "Twin studies, especially those involving monozygotic (MZ) twins, facilitate the analysis of factors affecting skin aging while controlling for age, gender, and genetic susceptibility. The purpose of this study was to objectively assess various features of facial skin and analyze the effects of environmental factors on these features in MZ twins. At the Osaka Twin Research Center, 67 pairs of MZ twins underwent medical interviews and photographic assessments, using the VISIA® Complexion Analysis System. First, the average scores of the right and left cheek skin spots, wrinkles, pores, texture, and erythema were calculated; the differences between the scores were then compared in each pair of twins. Next, using the results of medical interviews and VISIA data, we investigated the effects of environmental factors on skin aging. The data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The intrapair differences in facial texture scores significantly increased as the age of the twins increased (P = 0.03). Among the twin pairs who provided answers to the questions regarding history differences in medical interviews, the twins who smoked or did not use skin protection showed significantly higher facial texture or wrinkle scores compared with the twins not exposed to cigarettes or protectants (P = 0.04 and 0.03, respectively). The study demonstrated that skin aging among Japanese MZ twins, especially in terms of facial texture, was significantly influenced by environmental factors. In addition, smoking and skin protectant use were important environmental factors influencing skin aging.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/c3/jocd0013-0158.PMC4141746.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5347657", "abstract": "A newly developed short double-balloon enteroscope with a working channel enlarged to a diameter of 3.2 mm is a novel innovation in stent placement for patients with surgically altered anatomies. Herein, we report three patients in whom this new scope contributed to an efficient technique and ideal treatment. In the first case, the double guidewire technique was efficient and effective for multiple stent placements. In the second case, covered self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement, which is the standard treatment for malignant biliary obstruction, could be performed in a technologically sound and safe manner. In the third case, SEMS placement was performed as palliative treatment for malignant afferent-loop obstruction; this procedure could be performed soundly and safely using the through-the-scope technique. The wider working channel of this new scope also facilitates a smoother accessory insertion and high suction performance, which reduces procedure time and stress on endoscopists. Furthermore, this new scope, which has advanced force transmission, adaptive bending, and a smaller turning radius, is expected to be highly successful in both diagnosis and therapy for various digestive diseases in patients with surgically altered anatomies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/53/88/gnl-11-306.PMC5347657.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4710947", "abstract": "We previously showed a decreased expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR) mRNA/protein in a small group of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) tissues, suggesting the loss of a protective role of VDR against malignant cell growth in this cancer type. Downregulation of VDR gene expression may result from epigenetics events, that is, methylation of cytosine nucleotide of CpG islands in VDR gene promoter. We analyzed methylation of CpG sites in the VDR gene promoter in normal adrenals and adrenocortical tumor samples. Methylation of CpG-rich 5′ regions was assessed by bisulfite sequencing PCR using bisulfite-treated DNA from archival microdissected paraffin-embedded adrenocortical tissues. Three normal adrenals and 23 various adrenocortical tumor samples (15 adenomas and 8 carcinomas) were studied. Methylation in the promoter region of VDR gene was found in 3/8 ACCs, while no VDR gene methylation was observed in normal adrenals and adrenocortical adenomas. VDR mRNA and protein levels were lower in ACCs than in benign tumors, and VDR immunostaining was weak or negative in ACCs, including all 3 methylated tissue samples. The association between VDR gene promoter methylation and reduced VDR gene expression is not a rare event in ACC, suggesting that VDR epigenetic inactivation may have a role in adrenocortical carcinogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ba/70/PMC4710947.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3985936", "abstract": "Graphitic carbon nitrides are investigated for developing highly durable Pt electrocatalyst supports for polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs). Three different graphitic carbon nitride materials were synthesized with the aim to address the effect of crystallinity, porosity, and composition on the catalyst support properties: polymeric carbon nitride (gCNM), poly(triazine) imide carbon nitride (PTI/Li+Cl–), and boron-doped graphitic carbon nitride (B-gCNM). Following accelerated corrosion testing, all graphitic carbon nitride materials are found to be more electrochemically stable compared to conventional carbon black (Vulcan XC-72R) with B-gCNM support showing the best stability. For the supported catalysts, Pt/PTI-Li+Cl– catalyst exhibits better durability with only 19", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/43/PMC3985936.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5430286", "abstract": "[Purpose] To examine if the SPPB is higher with healthy subjects than outpatients, which was higher than inpatients and if the SPPB can be validated assessment tool for strength tests and lower extremity morphological evaluation in cardiovascular disease patients. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-four middle aged and older adults with cardiovascular disease were recruited from inpatient and outpatient facilities and assigned to separate experimental groups. Twelve age-matched healthy volunteers were assigned to a control group. SPPB test was used to assess balance and functional motilities. The test outcomes were compared with level of care (inpatient vs. outpatient), physical characteristics, strength and lower extremity morphology. [Results] Total SPPB scores, strength tests (knee extensor muscle strength), and lower extremity morphological evaluation (muscle thickness of anterior and posterior mid-thigh and posterior lower-leg) were greater in healthy subjects and outpatients groups compared with inpatients. To predict total Short Physical Performance Battery scores, the predicted knee extension and anterior mid-thigh muscle thickness were calculated. [Conclusion] The SPPB is an effective tool as the strength tests and lower extremity morphological evaluation for middle-aged and older adult cardiovascular disease patients. Notably, high knee extensor muscle strength and quadriceps femoris muscle thickness are positively associated with high SPPB scores.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/a1/jpts-29-748.PMC5430286.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4452000", "abstract": "Purpose of this study was to evaluate the lymphocyte populations' distribution changes in peripheral blood of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Lymphocyte populations' distribution changes in peripheral blood of pSS patients were investigated in 52 patients with pSS and in 28 healthy controls by flow cytometry. We found decreased absolute count of CD3+ T cell population in pSS patients. Analysis of CD4+ T cell population showed significant proportion and absolute count differences in pSS patient's blood with SSA/SSB antibodies (Abs) in comparison to controls. No significant differences were observed analyzing CD4+ and CD8+ Treg subpopulation. Proportion and absolute counts of Th17 cells were significantly lower in pSS patient's blood. Absolute counts of CD8+ T cells were significantly lower in pSS patients in comparison to controls and also impaired proportion and absolute counts of CD8+ subpopulations according to CD27+ and CD57+ were observed. Absolute counts of NKT and NK cells were decreased in pSS with Abs. B cells proportion was increased only in blood of pSS with Abs. Lymphocyte distribution impairment can be due to genetically determined lymphopenia or lymphocyte migration from periphery to inflammatory sites or/and increased susceptibility to apoptosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b9/f4/PMC4452000.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3560816", "abstract": "Summary Background Reconstruction of the pharynx and cervical esophagus has significantly progressed in the last 2 decades. A revolution in microvascular surgery has provided numerous choices for primary restoration, or in secondary reconstructions necessary for recurrences or complications of primary surgery. The goals of reconstruction after laryngopharyngoesophagectomy are to provide continuity of the alimentary tract, to protect major blood vessels, to heal the primary wound, and to restore the swallowing and breathing functions with minimal donor site and neck morbidity and deformation. Case Report We present 3 cases with complex defects of the laryngopharynx, cervical esophagus and trachea and anterior neck skin following central neck exenteration safely reconstructed with a single anterolateral thigh flap. No postoperative complications occurred in any of the 3 cases of reconstructions, each using a single anterolateral thigh flap. Conclusions This approach significantly simplified the reconstruction, with quick recovery, short hospital stay and excellent functional and aesthetic results.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/65/PMC3560816.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3529579", "abstract": "Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by weakness in specific muscle groups, especially the ocular and bulbar muscles. Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) presents with ascending paralysis and areflexia, often secondary to an infection. Several theories have been proposed regarding the etiology behind GBS, with many studies pointing to a possible autoimmune cause. If this is in fact true, it is also possible that the two diseases may develop concurrently. While this is unusual, several recently published studies highlight such cases of concurrent MG and GBS. This co-occurrence could involve certain common proteins, as the two diseases can present somewhat similarly. This is an unusual case of a patient with no significant past medical history, presenting with generalized weakness and symptoms of new-onset diabetes, who developed bilateral ptosis, distal weakness, and areflexia while in the hospital, raising the possibility of concurrent MG and GBS. Although the diagnosis of MG was confirmed by the positive anticholinesterase antibodies and tensilon test, several features, including sudden onset of ascending paralysis and areflexia, were more common in GBS than MG. It is possible, albeit rare, that these two syndromes could have developed concurrently and that the untreated diabetes mellitus could have contributed to the neurological symptoms. This case is reported because of the rarity of its features, diagnostic and management challenges.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/64/04/crn-0004-0137.PMC3529579.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3507083", "abstract": " Background. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is now a confirmed risk factor for kidney disease with an increased burden in persons of African descent. Method. We measured the serum cystatin C levels of 205 ART-naive, HIV-infected children by an ELISA technique and compared them with the levels of apparently healthy children. Result. The mean ± SD serum cystatin C level of children with HIV infection was 1.01 ± 0.44 mg/L, significantly higher than the mean value in the control group, that is, 0.72 ± 0.20 mg/L (P = 0.000). The mean ± SD cystatin C-based estimated GFR of children with HIV infection was 102.7 ± 31.0 mL/min/1.73 m2, significantly lower than 126.9 ± 28.5 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the control group, (P = 0.014). A significantly higher proportion of HIV-infected children compared to controls had eGFR < 90 mL/min/1.73 m2 (21.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/47/PMC3507083.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3304669", "abstract": "A 37-year-old male presented with fever and jaundice was diagnosed as hepatitis A complicated with progressive cholestasis and severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia. He was treated with high-dose prednisolone (1.5 mg/kg), and eventually recovered. His initial serum contained genotype IA hepatitis A virus (HAV), which was subsequently replaced by genotype IIIA HAV. Moreover, at the time of development of hemolytic anemia, he became positive for immunoglobulin M (IgM) anti-hepatitis E virus (HEV). We detected HAV antigens in the liver biopsy specimen, while we detected neither HEV antigen in the liver nor HEV RNA in his serum. This is the first report of hepatitis A coinfected with two different genotypes manifesting with autoimmune hemolytic anemia, prolonged cholestasis, and false-positive IgM anti-HEV.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/04/c7/kjhep-17-323.PMC3304669.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3040349", "abstract": "Patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and diabetes mellitus, as well as patients admitted with elevated blood glucose without known diabetes, have impaired outcome. Therefore intensive glucose-lowering therapy with insulin (IGL) has been proposed in diabetic or hyperglycaemic patients and has been shown to improve survival and reduce incidence of adverse events. The current manuscript provides an overview of randomised controlled trials investigating the effect of IGL. Furthermore, systematic glucose–insulin–potassium infusion (GIK) has been studied to improve outcome after AMI. In spite of positive findings in some early studies, GIK did not show any beneficial effects in recent clinical trials and thus this concept has been abandoned. While IGL targeted to achieve normoglycaemia improves outcome in patients with AMI, achievement of glucose regulation is difficult and carries the risk of hypoglycaemia. More research is needed to determine the optimal glucose target levels in AMI and to investigate whether computerised glucose protocols and continuous glucose sensors can improve safety and efficacy of IGL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/46/3a/12471_2010_Article_65.PMC3040349.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3322195", "abstract": "Numerous clinical trials of molecular targeted drugs for cancer have been conducted, with remarkable results for certain drugs and accumulation of \"negative data\" causing a hitch in the development plan for some other compounds. Five recent issues and problems of molecular targeted therapies were discussed critically. Drug discovery and effects against driver mutations (activating mutations) and problems: possibility for circumventing inherent and acquired resistance with the aim of achieving radical cure. Synthetic lethality: reasonable patient selection in individualized treatment strategy. Response rate and progression-free survival improvement with or without overall survival benefit and enhancement of toxicity in bevacizumab therapy: best endpoints for the evaluation of effect of antiangiogenic therapy. Negative data on small-molecule targeted therapy, primarily vascular endothelial growth factor tyrosine kinase inhibitors: loose GO or NO-GO decision criteria for further development of new compounds in early clinical trials. Effect of immunotherapy: difficulty to verify by proof of principle study. We are faced to many questions for the development of efficient personalized therapy. Accumulation of scientific global preclinical and clinical evidences is essential to use these new therapeutic modalities for the improvement of oncologic health care.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9d/76/crt-44-1.PMC3322195.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3748562", "abstract": "Background: Health measurement is one of the major challenges in today's researches. Various indicators including well-being are used to evaluate health. Many factors including culture, structures, and values can be effective on family health, quality of life, and well-being of family members that these elements themselves are effective on the whole society's health. One of other effective factors on these indicators is family function. Materials and Methods: The data collecting tools included Bloom's Family Function questionnaire and well-being questionnaire, whose validity and reliability have been already confirmed. This study is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study carried out on 300 subjects in Isfahan in 2011. The inclusion criteria were the families residing in Isfahan for more than 1 year and the women who were willing to cooperate with the project. Sampling method was in the form of cluster. Isfahan has 13 clusters of which 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/18/c6/IJNMR-18-9.PMC3748562.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2915527", "abstract": "Osteoporotic vertebral fractures are associated with considerable reduction of quality of life, morbidity, and mortality. The management of patients with vertebral fractures should include treatment for osteoporosis and measures to reduce pain and improve mobility. This article provides information for management and rehabilitation of vertebral fractures based on clinical experience and literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d9/66/PMC2915527.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3088857", "abstract": "We report here on the redistributed regional ventilation abnormalities after the administration of a bronchodilator and as seen on xenon-inhaled dual-energy CT in a patient with asthma. The improved ventilation seen in the right lower lobe and the decreased ventilation seen in the right middle lobe after the administration of a bronchodilator on xenon-inhaled dual-energy CT could explain a positive bronchodilator response on a pulmonary function test. These changes may reflect the heterogeneity of the airway responsiveness to a bronchodilator in patients with asthma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f1/44/kjr-12-386.PMC3088857.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2873777", "abstract": "The performance of sensory systems in many cases is limited by the physical nature of the stimulus. For vision, the quantal nature of light limits detection by dark-adapted observers; only now are we beginning to be aware of the subtleties in the biophysical mechanisms underlying this exquisite sensitivity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/5a/1757-594X-0001-0000000066.PMC2873777.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4539791", "abstract": "Background: Human T-cell lymphotropic virus types Ι and ΙΙ (HTLV-Ι and HTLV-II) are deltaretroviruses which may cause leukemia, lymphoma and HTLV-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). In addition, HTLV-1 may be related to thalassemia and hemophilia cases after blood transfusion. Objectives: The aim of this study was evaluation of the prevalence of HTLVs in patients with hematological disorders (leukemia, thalassemia, lymphoma and hemophilia). Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted during April to October 2012. A total of 101 serum samples were collected from patients and were stored at -20ºC. DNA was extracted from serum by an extraction kit. The extracted DNA was tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of HTLV-Ι and HTLV-II pol and tax gene sequences, respectively. Samples were collected from 67 (66.33", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b3/da/jjm-08-06-17201.PMC4539791.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4295349", "abstract": "Circular dichroism and 1H NMR were used to investigate the interactions of a series of synthetic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) isolated from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Previous CD studies with AMPs containing only three Tic-Oic dipeptide units do not exhibit helical characteristics upon interacting with small unilamellar vesicles (SUVs) consisting of LPS. Increasing the number of Tic-Oic dipeptide units to six resulted in five analogues with CD spectra that exhibited helical characteristics on binding to LPS SUVs. Spectroscopic and in vitro inhibitory data suggest that there are two possible helical conformations resulting from two different AMP-LPS binding mechanisms. Mechanism one involves a helical binding conformation where the AMP binds LPS very strongly and is not efficiently transported across the LPS bilayer resulting in the loss of inhibitory activity. Mechanism two involves a helical binding conformation where the AMP binds LPS very loosely and is efficiently transported across the LPS bilayer resulting in an increase in inhibitory activity. Mechanism three involves a nonhelical binding conformation where the AMP binds LPS very loosely and is efficiently transported across the LPS bilayer resulting in an increase in inhibitory activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d8/da/PMC4295349.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3672559", "abstract": "In the continuing dispute about the superiority of either intermittent or continuous renal replacement therapy for the critically ill, hybrid methods such as sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED) combining the advantages of both modalities - that is, excellent hemodynamic stability and low costs - receive growing attention. The study by Schwenger and colleagues is the first randomized trial indicating that there may be no significant difference in survival at 90 days between patients treated with SLED as compared with those treated with continuous veno-venous hemofiltration.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/3b/PMC3672559.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4852983", "abstract": "Though variations of intrahepatic biliary anatomy are quite common, duplication of the extrahepatic biliary system is extremely rare and reported infrequently in the literature. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most common general surgery procedures performed. Unfortunately, iatrogenic bile duct injuries can contribute to significant morbidity including hospital readmissions, infectious complications and death. Anomalous extrahepatic biliary anatomy may be one of the factors, which increases the likelihood of bile duct injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We present a case of an iatrogenic bile duct injury that occurred during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, in which a duplicated extrahepatic biliary system was identified intraoperatively during the definitive operative repair.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c1/33/rjw064.PMC4852983.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC395842", "abstract": "Background In patients with very severe dementia self-rating of quality of life usually is not possible and appropriate instruments for proxy-ratings are not available. The aim of this project is to develop an instrument of clinical proxy-ratings for this population. Methods Using electronic instruments, physicians and nurses recorded patient behaviour and changes of behaviour over a period of one year. Based on these data a list of 65 items was generated and subsequently allocated to 14 categories. This list was tested in 217 patients (61–105 yrs) with dementia diagnosed according to ICD-10 by both physicians and nurses. The severity of dementia was assessed by means of the Global Deterioration Scale (GDS) and the Brief Cognitive Rating Scale (BCRS). The Spitzer-Index (proxy-rating) was used as a global quality of life measure. Activity of daily living was rated using the Barthel Index. Results A factor analysis of the original 65 items revealed 5 factors (communication, negative affect, bodily contact, aggression, and mobility). By stepwise removing items we obtained satisfactory internal consistencies of the factors both for nurses' and physicians' ratings. The factors were generally unrelated. The validity of the instrument was proven by correlations of the factors communication and mobility with the Brief Cognitive Rating Scale (BCRS) and the Barthel-Index. Conclusion The results demonstrate the reliability and validity of the Vienna List as a proxy rating measurement of quality of life in patients with severe dementia. The psychometric properties of the scale have to be proved in further studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8d/59/PMC395842.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3797236", "abstract": "To deal with the suffering caused by childhood cancer, patients and their families use different coping strategies, among which, spirituality appears a way of minimizing possible damage. In this context, the purpose of the present study was to analyze the influence of spirituality in childhood cancer care, involving biopsychosocial aspects of the child, the family, and the health care team facing the disease. To accomplish this purpose, a nonsystematic review of literature of articles on national and international electronic databases (Scientific Electronic Library Online [SciELO], PubMed, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature [LILACS]) was conducted using the search terms “spirituality,” “child psychology,” “child,” and “cancer,” as well as on other available resources. After the search, 20 articles met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final sample. Our review showed that the relation between spirituality and health has lately become a subject of growing interest among researchers, as a positive influence of spirituality in the people’s welfare was noted. Studies that were retrieved using the mentioned search strategy in electronic databases, independently assessed by the authors according to the systematic review, showed that spirituality emerges as a driving force that helps pediatric patients and their families in coping with cancer. Health care workers have been increasingly attentive to this dimension of care. However, it is necessary to improve their knowledge regarding the subject. The search highlighted that spirituality is considered a source of comfort and hope, contributing to a better acceptance of his/her chronic condition by the child with cancer, as well as by the family. Further up-to-date studies facing the subject are, thus, needed. It is also necessary to better train health care practitioners, so as to provide humanized care to the child with cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e7/f8/ndt-9-1539.PMC3797236.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2718186", "abstract": "Malignant transformation of teratoma in the anterior mediastinum is rare; the mass usually has a long history and is seen in older patients. We report a case of teratoma with malignant transformation in the anterior mediastinum, complicated by rupture. CT revealed a lobulated, inhomogeneous cystic mass with a fat component and wall calcifications. The lateral wall was disrupted and consolidation in the adjacent left upper lobe was noted, suggesting rupture. A heterogeneously enhanced solid portion, obliterating the fat plane between the mass and the great vessels was present in the medial aspect of the mass, and pathologic examination demonstrated the presence of adenocarcinoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/49/f6/kjr-1-162.PMC2718186.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3422902", "abstract": "We describe a 73-year-old male patient with left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) who was diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction (MI), three-vessel coronary artery disease, a fresh intraventricular thrombus, and mitral regurgitation. He was treated with full anticoagulant therapy, coronary artery bypass grafting, and mitral valve repair. This case adds to a small but growing literature showing association between LVNC and MI and/or coronary artery disease. We suggest that patients with LVNC could be considered at heightened risk for MI, and the two conditions might have a common genetic underpinning in some cases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/72/60/PMC3422902.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3279908", "abstract": "The Asian cheetah is known as Iranian panther. A four years old female cheetah was killed in a road accident by a truck in Abbas Abad (Biarjamand) County around Shahrood City in Semnan Province, central part of Iran. Two days after the accident the carcass of animal was autopsied and only five cestodes were obtained from its intestine. In inspection of other organs no other helminth was observed. Cestod samples were fixed and stained by carmine acid. Characterization of the cestodes using morphological standard key, identified the cestodes as Taenia acinonyxi.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d4/c2/IJP-6-105.PMC3279908.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3864140", "abstract": "Considering that downregulation of HLA expression could represent a potential mechanism for breast carcinogenesis and metastasis, the aim of the present study was to use immunohistochemical methods to analyze the expression of HLA-Ia, HLA-DR, HLA-DQ, HLA-E, and HLA-G in invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) of the breast and to relate this HLA profile to anatomopathological parameters. Fifty-two IDC from breast biopsies were stratified according to histological differentiation (well, moderately, and poorly differentiated) and to the presence of metastases in axillary lymph nodes. The expression of HLA molecules was assessed by immunohistochemistry, using a computer-assisted system. Overall, 31 (59.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/53/bf/PMC3864140.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3764947", "abstract": "Pancreatic fistula is a known complication of distal pancreatectomy. Endotherapy with pancreatic duct stent placement and pancreatic sphincterotomy has been shown to be effective in its management; however, experience of endotherapy in the management of this complication has not been extensively reported from the United States. Preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with pancreatic stent placement has also been proposed to prevent this complication after distal pancreatectomy. In our cohort of 59 patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy, 13 (22", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/af/crg-0007-0332.PMC3764947.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3552548", "abstract": "Aim The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Thai version of the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS) for the evaluation of depression in patients with schizophrenia. Methods: Sixty patients with schizophrenia according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: Fourth Edition; Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria were recruited to the study The Thai version of the CDSS, the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, 17-item version (HDRS-17), and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) were administered. A major depressive episode diagnosed by a psychiatrist according to the DSM-IV-TR was used as a gold standard. Results: The internal consistency of the Thai version of the CDSS was very good (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.869). The inter-rater reliability was found to be in substantial agreement with the intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.979. The test-retest reliability over a period of 3 days was high, with an intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.861. The Thai version of the CDSS showed significant correlations with the MADRS (r = 0.887), the HDRS-17 (r = 0.865), and the depression item of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS-G6) (r = 0.833). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the CDSS, MADRS, HDRS-17, and PANSS-G6 against the DSM-IV-TR criteria for major depressive episode were 0.993, 0.954, 0.966, and 0.933, respectively. The optimal cut-off score to discriminate between depressed and non-depressed patients was 6/7, with a sensitivity of 92.31", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/68/PMC3552548.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3466857", "abstract": "There are many treatment modalities available to acutely terminate incessant ventricular tachycardia with variable success rates, but some cases tend to prove refractory to all of them. We report a 59-year-old woman presenting with incessant ventricular tachycardia. Echocardiography revealed a large true apical aneurysm and severe left ventricular dysfunction. The arrhythmia was controlled in the operating room after off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery and plication of the apical aneurysm.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/ce/jthc-5-205.PMC3466857.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4667149", "abstract": "Premature infants requiring an ophthalmic examination or even surgery for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) have a high prevalence of co-existing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Reactive airway is one of the clinical presentations of BPD. We report two cases of bronchoconstriction following instillation of mydriatic eye drops. One occurred during induction of anesthesia for laser photocoagulation and the other before screening of ROP. The most likely cause in each case was phenylephrine eye drops. We recommend that the minimal dosage of phenylephrine needed to attain proper mydriasis should be instilled to infant patients, and the possibility of bronchoconstriction occurrence kept in mind, especially for infants with low body weight with BPD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/a0/kjae-68-613.PMC4667149.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3913429", "abstract": "In diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), recurrence of hyperostosis after surgical removal is common. While both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and radiotherapy have been used in the prevention of heterotopic ossification, only NSAIDs have been applied for prophylaxis in DISH. As a previously undescribed prophylaxis of recurrence in DISH, we report a case treated with local radiotherapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/90/59/rjt124.PMC3913429.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3345582", "abstract": "The idea of “receptor mosaics” is that proteins may form complex and dynamic networks with respect to time and composition. These have the potential to markedly expand the diversity and specificity of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) signaling, particularly in neural cells, where a few key receptors have been implicated in many neurological and psychiatric disorders, including addiction. Metabotropic glutamate type 5 receptors (mGlu5) can form complexes with other GPCRs, including adenosine A2A and dopamine D2 receptors. mGlu5-containing complexes have been reported in the striatum, a brain region critical for mediating the rewarding and incentive motivational properties of drugs of abuse. mGlu5-containing complexes and/or downstream interactions between divergent receptors may play roles in addiction–relevant behaviors. Interactions between mGlu5 receptors and other GPCRs can regulate the rewarding and conditioned effects of drugs as well as drug-seeking behaviors. mGlu5 complexes may influence striatal function, including GABAergic output of striatopallidal neurons and glutamatergic input from corticostriatal afferents. Given their discrete localization, mGlu5-[non-mGlu5] receptor interactions and/or mGlu5-containing complexes may minimize off-target effects and thus provide a novel avenue for drug discovery. The therapeutic targeting of receptor–receptor functional interactions and/or receptor mosaics in a tissue specific or temporal manner (for example, a sub-population of receptors in a “pathological state”) might reduce detrimental side effects that may otherwise impair vital brain functions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/37/fphar-03-00084.PMC3345582.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4882462", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to compare kinetic differences of static balance between female dancers (D) with at least seven years of dance experience and female non-dancers (ND) who were typical college students. Participants were tested in single-leg stance. Both the dominant leg (DL) and non-dominant leg (NDL) were tested with the participants shod (S) and barefoot (BF). Kinetic variables (vertical, medio-lateral [ML], antero-posterior [AP] maximum ground reaction forces (GRF), and center of pressure (COP) ML and AP) were measured by a Bertec force platform at 1000 Hz with participants S and BF. Each subject’s stance was measured over 3 × 30-second intervals. No significant differences (p≥0.05) existed between groups for height, body mass, or age. Significant differences existed between groups for balance time, AP GRF in both BF and S conditions for both DL and NDL, and ML GRF in BF NDL and S DL and NDL conditions. D and ND in BF and S conditions with DL and NDL static stance demonstrate different AP and ML GRF when balancing over a 30-second time interval. Data may suggest that ND are more prone to lose their balance. Further investigation is warranted to understand whether individuals in the rehabilitative field and athletic populations can use dance therapy for injury prevention and rehabilitation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ea/0b/PMC4882462.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3466881", "abstract": "Background: Differences in the quantity and distribution of coronary veins between patients with ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathy might affect the potential for the left ventricular (LV) lead targeting in patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In the current study, we assessed and compared the suitability of the coronary venous system for the LV lead placement in ischemic and dilated cardiomyopathy. Methods: This single-centre study, performed at our hospital, retrospectively studied 173 patients with the New York Heart Association class III or IV who underwent CRT. The study population was comprised of 74 patients with an ischemic underlying etiology and 99 patients with a non-ischemic etiology. The distribution of the veins as well as the final lead positions was recorded. Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of the position of the available suitable vein with the exception of the posterior position, where the ischemic group had slightly more suitable veins than did the dilated group (48.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/b6/jthc-7-10.PMC3466881.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5011587", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study investigated the association between floating toe and toe grip strength. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 635 Japanese children aged 9–11 years participated in this study. Floating toe was evaluated using footprint images, while toe grip strength was measured using a toe grip dynamometer. All 1,270 feet were classified into a floating toe group and a normal toe group according to visual evaluation of the footprint images. Intergroup differences in toe grip strength were analyzed using the unpaired t-test and logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, gender, and Rohrer Index. [Results] There were 512 feet (40.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/56/jpts-28-2322.PMC5011587.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3226148", "abstract": "The safety of the blood supply has been a concern over the past 20–30 years because of the transmission of infectious diseases. Blood is still routinely tested for viruses, and leukoreduction is an effective strategy to reduce the transmission of cell-associated viruses. Clinically, the benefits of leukoreduction include decreases in transfusion reactions, HLA alloimmunization, infections, fever episodes, and antibiotic use. Although leukoreduction will add cost to a unit of blood, projections indicate that leukoreduced blood will become the standard of care.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/a0/PMC3226148.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4444586", "abstract": " Objective. Magnetic seizure therapy (MST) is a novel, experimental therapeutic intervention, which combines therapeutic aspects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and transcranial magnetic stimulation, in order to achieve the efficacy of the former with the safety of the latter. MST might prove to be a valuable tool in the treatment of mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder. Our aim is to review current literature on MST. Methods. OVID and MEDLINE databases were used to systematically search for clinical studies on MST. The terms “magnetic seizure therapy,” “depression,” and “bipolar” were employed. Results. Out of 74 studies, 8 met eligibility criteria. There was considerable variability in the methods employed and samples sizes were small, limiting the generalization of the results. All studies focused on depressive episodes, but few included patients with bipolar disorder. The studies found reported significant antidepressant effects, with remission rates ranging from 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/17/06/PMC4444586.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3471261", "abstract": "Rapid reduction of a large acute subdural hematoma has been frequently reported. In my knowledge, however, it was rarely reported that rapid spontaneous reduction occurred in large volume of spontaneous intracerebral hematoma (sICH). We describe a patient with a rapid spontaneous decrease in the volume of a large hematoma. A 73-year-old man presented semi-comatose mentality. Initial brain computed tomography (CT) revealed the huge sICH. An emergency operation was planned, but was not performed due to the refusal of patient's family. Therefore, we decided to treat with conservative therapy. However, follow-up brain CT 16 hours after initial scan showed a remarkable reduction of previous sICH. The mechanism involving the spontaneous rapid decrease of the hematoma is presumed to occur through redistribution in brain atrophy, compression effect from the increased intracranial pressure and dilution through a wash out by the cerebrospinal fluid.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/eb/jcen-14-104.PMC3471261.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3517858", "abstract": "Satellite cells can maintain or repair muscle because they possess stem cell properties, making them a valuable option for cell therapy. However, cell transplants into skeletal muscle of patients with muscular dystrophy are limited by donor cell attachment, migration, and survival in the host tissue. Cells used for therapy are selected based on specific markers present in the plasma membrane. Although many markers have been identified, there is a need to find a marker that is expressed at different states in satellite cells, activated, quiescent, or differentiated cell. Furthermore, the marker has to be present in human tissue. Recently we reported that the plasma membrane α2δ1 protein is involved in cell attachment and migration in myoblasts. The α2δ1 subunit forms a part of the L-type voltage-dependent calcium channel in adult skeletal muscle. We found that the α2δ1 subunit is expressed in the majority of newly isolated satellite cells and that it appears earlier than the α1 subunits and at higher levels than the β or γ subunits. We also found that those cells that expressed α2δ1 would differentiate into muscle cells. This evidence indicates that the α2δ1 may be used as a marker of satellite cells that will differentiate into muscle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/da/a2/PMC3517858.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5221113", "abstract": "Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the association between CKD and CVD risk in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in China has not yet been well investigated. This study aimed to determine the association of CKD with the risks of coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke in a Chinese population with T2DM. Methods: A total of 1401 inpatients with T2DM at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine between April 2008 and November 2013 were included in this study. The CKD-Epidemiology Collaboration equation for Asians was used to classify CKD. The UK Prospective Diabetes Study risk engine was used to estimate the risks of CHD and stroke. Results: CHD risk was significantly increased with CKD stage (20.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ee/65/CMJ-130-57.PMC5221113.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4237540", "abstract": "Insulin degludec (IDeg) is a new basal insulin with an ultra-long and stable glucose-lowering effect. We compared once-daily IDeg and insulin glargine (IGlar), both in combination with metformin ± dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, in a 52-week, open-label, treat-to-target trial in patients with type 2 diabetes followed by a 52-week extension trial in which subjects [n = 725/1030 (70.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/23/dom0016-0869.PMC4237540.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4483406", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study evaluated the changes in balance ability and obstacle gait after lumbar stabilization exercise and Nintendo WiiTM Sports in elderly at risk for falls. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-four elderly women with at risk for falls were randomly divided into the control, lumbar stabilization exercise, and Nintendo Wii Sports groups. Static balance was measured by the Berg Balance Scale and functional reach test, dynamic balance by the timed up-and-go test, and obstacle negotiation function by crossing velocity and maximum vertical heel clearance. [Results] Both the lumbar stabilization exercise and Nintendo Wii Sports groups showed significant improvements in obstacle negotiation function after the exercise compared to the control group. Berg Balance Scale and functional reach test scores were greater in the lumbar stabilization exercise group, while the timed up-and-go test time was significantly better in the Nintendo Wii Sports groups. [Conclusion] Lumbar stabilization exercises and Nintendo Wii Sports improve falling related balance and obstacle negotiation function in elderly women at risk for falls.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/21/86/jpts-27-1397.PMC4483406.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4789435", "abstract": " Aim. To determine the diabetic foot ulcer incidence and examine its association with microangiopathy complications, including diabetic retinopathy (DR) and albuminuria (Alb), in type 2 diabetes patients. Methods. This was a retrospective cohort study of 1,305 patients with type 2 diabetes who were assigned to the following groups: Category 1, normoalbuminuria without DR (n = 712); Category 2, Alb without DR (n = 195); Category 3, normoalbuminuria with DR (n = 185); and Category 4, Alb with DR (n = 213). Cox proportional hazard models were used to compare the risks of developing diabetic foot ulcers across the categories. Results. During 14,249 person-years of follow-up, 50 subjects developed diabetic foot ulcers, with incidence rates of 1.6/1,000, 1.5/1,000, 3.4/1,000, and 12.5/1,000 person-years in Categories 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. After adjusting for the presence of diabetic neuropathy and macroangiopathy, the hazard ratios and 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9a/90/PMC4789435.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4323796", "abstract": "Background Left ventricular (LV) diameter is routinely measured on the echocardiogram but has not been jointly evaluated with the ejection fraction (EF) for risk stratification of sudden cardiac death (SCD). Methods and Results From a large ongoing community‐based study of SCD (The Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study; population ≈1 million), SCD cases were compared with geographic controls. LVEF and LV diameter, measured using the LV internal dimension in diastole (categorized as normal, mild, moderate, or severe dilatation using American Society of Echocardiography definitions) were assessed from echocardiograms prior but unrelated to the SCD event. Cases (n=418; 69.5±13.8 years), compared with controls (n=329; 67.7±11.9 years), more commonly had severe LV dysfunction (EF ≤35", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c6/76/jah3-3-e001193.PMC4323796.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3215999", "abstract": "The state of non-REM sleep (NREM), or slow wave sleep, is associated with a synchronized EEG pattern in which sleep spindles and/or K complexes and high-voltage slow wave activity (SWA) can be recorded over the entire cortical surface. In humans, NREM is subdivided into stages 2 and 3–4 (presently named N3) depending on the proportions of each of these polygraphic events. NREM is necessary for normal physical and intellectual performance and behavior. An overview of the brain structures involved in NREM generation shows that the thalamus and the cerebral cortex are absolutely necessary for the most significant bioelectric and behavioral events of NREM to be expressed; other structures like the basal forebrain, anterior hypothalamus, cerebellum, caudal brain stem, spinal cord and peripheral nerves contribute to NREM regulation and modulation. In NREM stage 2, sustained hyperpolarized membrane potential levels resulting from interaction between thalamic reticular and projection neurons gives rise to spindle oscillations in the membrane potential; the initiation and termination of individual spindle sequences depends on corticothalamic activities. Cortical and thalamic mechanisms are also involved in the generation of EEG delta SWA that appears in deep stage 3–4 (N3) NREM; the cortex has classically been considered to be the structure that generates this activity, but delta oscillations can also be generated in thalamocortical neurons. NREM is probably necessary to normalize synapses to a sustainable basal condition that can ensure cellular homeostasis. Sleep homeostasis depends not only on the duration of prior wakefulness but also on its intensity, and sleep need increases when wakefulness is associated with learning. NREM seems to ensure cell homeostasis by reducing the number of synaptic connections to a basic level; based on simple energy demands, cerebral energy economizing during NREM sleep is one of the prevalent hypotheses to explain NREM homeostasis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/88/7f/PMC3215999.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5261557", "abstract": "Purpose Long-acting β2-agonists (LABAs) have demonstrated efficacy in patients with COPD in clinical trials. The purpose of this study was to assess the comparative efficacy of all available dosages of all LABA monotherapies using a network meta-analysis. Methods A systematic literature review identified 33 randomized controlled trials of LABA monotherapies (salmeterol 50 μg twice daily [BID]; formoterol 12 μg BID; indacaterol 75, 150, and 300 μg once daily [OD]; olodaterol 5 and 10 μg OD, and vilanterol 25 μg OD). Clinical efficacy was evaluated at 12 and 24 weeks in terms of trough forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), transition dyspnea index focal score, St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire total score, and rate of COPD exacerbations. The relative effectiveness of all LABA monotherapies was estimated by Bayesian network meta-analysis. Results At 12 and 24 weeks, indacaterol 300 and 150 μg OD were associated with statistically significant improvement in trough FEV1 compared to all other LABA monotherapies; vilanterol 25 μg OD was superior to formoterol 12 μg BID. At 12 weeks, indacaterol 75 μg OD was associated with significant improvement in trough FEV1 compared to formoterol 12 μg BID and olodaterol (5 and 10 μg OD); salmeterol 50 μg BID was superior to formoterol 12 μg BID and olodaterol 5 μg OD. Indacaterol 300 μg OD was also associated with significant improvement in transition dyspnea index focal score compared to all other LABAs at 12 or 24 weeks. Indacaterol 150 μg OD had significantly better results in exacerbation rates than olodaterol 5 μg and olodaterol 10 μg OD. Conclusion Indacaterol 300 μg, followed by 150 and 75 μg, were the most effective LABA monotherapies for moderate to severe COPD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/31/1e/copd-12-367.PMC5261557.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3013644", "abstract": "The MIPS Fusarium graminearum Genome Database (FGDB) was established as a comprehensive genome database on one of the most devastating fungal plant pathogens of wheat, barley and maize. The current version of FGDB v3.1 provides information on the full manually revised gene set based on the Broad Institute assembly FG3 genome sequence. The results of gene prediction tools were integrated with the help of comparative data on related species to result in a set of 13.718 annotated protein coding genes. This rigorous approach involved adding or modifying gene models and represents a coding sequence gold standard for the genus Fusarium. The gene loci improvements results in 2461 genes which either are new or have different structures compared to the Broad Institute assembly 3 gene set. Moreover the database serves as a convenient entry point to explore expression data results and to obtain information on the Affymetrix GeneChip probe sets. The resource is accessible on http://mips.gsf.de/genre/proj/FGDB/.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/e7/gkq1016.PMC3013644.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5388345", "abstract": "The use of egg protein preparations in clinical trials to reduce the incidence of egg allergy among infants includes a number of preparations of egg. These include whole egg, egg white protein, and egg yolk preparations. The study of the differential immune responses to these allergenic proteins in comparison is suggested as a future research area of investigation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/41/jaa-10-109.PMC5388345.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4575805", "abstract": "Background: Testicular torsion (TT), or twisting of the testicle resulting in a strangulation of the blood supply, occurs in men whose tissue surrounding the testicle is not well attached to the scrotum. It is important to emphasize that testicular torsion is a medical emergency. Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the second look exploration and outcomes in TT. Patients and Methods: Seventy boys out of 124 patients underwent early exploration and 48 hours later second look exploration due to TT. All patients were checked with preoperative color-doppler ultrasonography (CDU) and intraoperative bleeding test. Data included age at admission, side of pathology, relation of TT with season of year, duration of preoperative history, degree of testicular torsion, CDU findings, and degree of bleeding; results of second look exploration, follow-up, and outcomes were analyzed. Results: Totally 70 patients were included in this study within five years, of which mean age was 28.6 ± 32.9 months (range 1 to 144), 48", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/8a/ijp-25-528.PMC4575805.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649191", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to examine the association between body mass index and weight changes on disability transitions and mortality among Brazilian older adults. Longitudinal data from the Health, Well-Being, and Aging in Latin America and the Caribbean Study conducted in São Paulo, Brazil (2000 and 2006), were used to examine the impact of obesity on disability and mortality and of weight changes on health transitions related to disability. Logistic and multinomial regression models were used in the analyses. Individuals who were obese were more likely than those of normal weight to have limitations on activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activity of daily living (IADL), and Nagi's limitations. Obesity was associated with higher incidence of ADL and IADL limitations and with lower recovery from Nagi's limitations. Compared to those who maintained their weight, those who gained weight experienced higher incidence of ADL and Nagi's limitations, even after controlling for initial body mass index. Higher mortality among overweight individuals was only found when the reference category was “remaining free of Nagi limitations.” The findings of the study underline the importance of maintaining normal weight for preventing disability at older ages.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/9b/PMC3649191.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4777227", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to investigate the neuropathological features of the spinal cord in patients suffering with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Spinal cord tissue collected from three AD patients and eight controls was selected for the study. Data were collected at T2, T8, T10, L4, and S2 spinal levels. The sections were subjected to hematoxylin and eosin and Gallyas–Braak staining methods and then were immunostained with antibodies such as phosphorylated tau protein (AT8), α-synuclein, Aβ, amyloid precursor protein, ubiquitin, and TDP-43. Pathological changes exhibited by the biomarkers were detected by microscopy. Neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) were detectable in spinal anterior horn motor neurons in two of the three AD patients. AT8-positive axons or axon-like structures and AT8 expression in glial cells were detected in all three AD cases. Hyperphosphorylation of tau protein was detected in spinal anterior horn cells, glial cells, and axons, and its severity was associated with NFTs in the brain tissue. α-Synuclein-positive Lewy bodies and scattered Lewy-like neuritis were detected in the medial horn of the thoracic spinal cord and ventral sacral gray matter, respectively, in one patient who had AD with Lewy bodies. Neither amyloid deposition nor amyloid precursor protein and TDP-43 expression was detected in the spinal cord of AD patients. Spinal cord of AD patients was observed to contain phosphorylated tau protein and α-synuclein immunoreactive structures, which may play a role in dyskinesia and autonomic dysfunction in advanced AD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/a6/ndt-12-445.PMC4777227.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3975182", "abstract": "Once considered a taboo topic or stigma, cancer is the number one public health enemy in the world. Once a product of an almost untouchable industry, tobacco is indisputably recognized as a major cause of cancer and a target for anticancer efforts. With the emergence of new economic powers in the world, especially in highly populated countries such as China, air pollution has rapidly emerged as a smoking gun for cancer and has become a hot topic for public health debate because of the complex political, economic, scientific, and technologic issues surrounding the air pollution problem. This editorial and the referred articles published in this special issue of the Chinese Journal of Cancer discuss these fundamental questions. Does air pollution cause a wide spectrum of cancers? Should air pollution be considered a necessary evil accompanying economic transformation in developing countries? Is an explosion of cancer incidence coming to China and how soon will it arrive? What must be done to prevent this possible human catastrophe? Finally, the approaches for air pollution control are also discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e8/88/cjc-33-04-173.PMC3975182.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3955622", "abstract": " Objective. To profile a sample of gouty patients treated with allopurinol, benzbromarone, or a combination of these two drugs and to describe the impact of this therapy in reducing uric acid levels. Methods. An observational, transversal study was performed. We evaluated 48 patients diagnosed with gout who were seen at the Outpatient Rheumatology Clinic of the Federal University of Paraná between January 2009 and November 2010. Clinical data, creatinine serum levels, and basal and posttreatment levels of serum urates, transaminases, and bilirubins were recorded. Uric acid levels were measured in a 24-hour urine sample. Patients were divided into three groups: patients given only allopurinol (A), only benzbromarone (B), and both in combined therapy (A + B). Results. The average age of these patients was 56.6 ± 11.4 years, varying from 35 to 81 years. The entire patient group experienced a significant drop in serum urate levels, from 8.5 ± 1.8 mg/dL (0.472 ± 0.1 mmol/L) to 6.7 ± 2.1 mg/dL (0.372 ± 0.116 mmol/L) (P < 0.001), regardless of the prescribed medication. The number of patients taking both drugs whose serum uric acid values fell within normal range (men <7 mg/dL (0.38 mmol/L) and women <6 mg/dL (0.33 mmol/L)) was 85.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ce/24/PMC3955622.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4335956", "abstract": "The aim of this report is to present a technical detail of use in the management of an anorectal malformation (ARM). A boy with ARM and a fistula to the urethra was operated on with a posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP). Before the PSARP operation, a videoendoscopy was performed through the distal stoma down to the distal end of the rectum. The rectourethral fistula was identified and a guidewire was passed through the endoscope, through the fistula, and out through the urethra. The endoscopically placed rectourethral guidewire was used as a landmark and facilitated the PSARP operation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6b/22/PMC4335956.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4941683", "abstract": "The order Magnaporthales comprises about 200 species and includes the economically and scientifically important rice blast fungus and the take-all pathogen of cereals, as well as saprotrophs and endophytes. Recent advances in phylogenetic analyses of these fungi resulted in taxonomic revisions. In this paper we list the 28 currently accepted genera in Magnaporthales with their type species and available gene and genome resources. The polyphyletic Magnaporthe 1972 is proposed for suppression, and Pyricularia 1880 and Nakataea 1939 are recommended for protection as the generic names for the rice blast fungus and the rice stem rot fungus, respectively. The rationale for the recommended names is also provided. These recommendations are made by the Pyricularia/Magnaporthe Working Group established under the auspices of the International Commission on the Taxonomy of Fungi (ICTF).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/51/c1/ima-7-1-155.PMC4941683.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2878674", "abstract": "Gallstone ileus of the colon is an exceedingly rare cause of large-bowel obstruction. It is usually the result of fistula formation between the gallbladder and large bowel facilitating entry of the stone into gastrointestinal tract. Contrast enhanced abdominal computed tomography is an important diagnostic aid. Surgical management is the treatment of choice to prevent the disastrous complications of large-bowel obstruction. We describe the case of a 92-year-old man who presented with symptoms and signs of large-bowel obstruction. Radiological investigation showed a large gallstone impacted in the sigmoid colon. Open enterolithotomy was undertaken relieving the obstruction and the patient made a full recovery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/de/PMC2878674.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2929421", "abstract": "Severe late toxicity following chemoradiotherapy in esophageal cancer, especially cardiac toxicity, is sometimes difficult to treat and is associated with mortality. However there is little published information with regard to patients with delayed pericardial effusion following chemoradiotherapy and its management. We herein report the case of a 63-year-old man with advanced synchronous esophageal and gastric cancers. This patient presented with pericardial effusion with cardiac tamponade after definitive chemoradiotherapy and was successfully treated with corticosteroid after pericardiocentesis. No instances of pericardial and pleural effusions were observed during the 2-year follow-up period until his death from cancer relapses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/00/dd/crg0004-0229.PMC2929421.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4641926", "abstract": "A stability-indicating method was validated for the determination in pharmaceutical forms of idebenone a coenzyme Q10-like compound. The assay was achieved by liquid chromatography analysis using a reversed-phase C18 column and a detector set at 480 nm. The optimized mobile phase consisted of isocratic flow rate at 1.0 mL/min for 3 min with methanol. The linearity of the assay was demonstrated in the range of 3.0 to 8.0 mg/mL with a correlation coefficient r 2 > 0.998. The limits of detection and quantification were 0.03 and 0.05 mg/mL, respectively. The intraday and interday precisions were less than 1.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/68/de/PMC4641926.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4983449", "abstract": "Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined as either kidney damage or a decline in renal function as determined by a decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) for three months or longer. CKD is an important risk factor for mortality. Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of CKD on renal-hepatic functional indices and blood pressure in 5/6 nephrectomized (5/6 Nx) rats over the course of nine months. Materials and Methods Male Wistar rats were subjected to either 5/6 Nx or sham operations (n = 8). Members of the sham group underwent the same procedure without surgical reduction of the kidney mass. For all animals, body weight (BW), serum creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) levels were measured before and after surgery. After two-, three-, six-, and nine-month intervals, blood was collected to assay renal and hepatic functional indices. Tail-cuff blood pressure was recorded in each month after surgery. Results BW was lower for the 5/6 Nx group rats after the operations compared with the BW of those in the sham operation group. Furthermore, the 5/6 Nx group showed elevations in blood pressure, Cr, BUN, ALT, and AST levels compared with the sham group over the course of time. Conclusions In summary, CKD induced by the 5/6 Nx model caused hypertension and increased serum levels of Cr, BUN, ALT, and AST. These changes are augmented by the progress of time.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/0c/num-08-03-37840.PMC4983449.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3131151", "abstract": "Here we present evidence that native speakers of a tone language, in which pitch contributes to word meaning, are impaired in the discrimination of falling pitches in tone sequences, as compared to speakers of a non-tone language. Both groups were presented with monotonic and isochronous sequences of five tones (i.e., constant pitch and intertone interval). They were required to detect when the fourth tone was displaced in pitch or time. While speakers of a tone language performed more poorly in the detection of downward pitch changes, they did not differ from non-tone language speakers in their perception of upward pitch changes or in their perception of subtle time changes. Moreover, this impairment cannot be attributed to poor musical abilities since the impairment remains unchanged when individual differences in musical pitch-based processing is taken into account. Thus, the impairment appears highly specific and may reflect the influence of statistical regularities of tone languages.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a5/37/PMC3131151.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3854577", "abstract": "Diabetes insipidus (DI) is described following penetrating spinal cord trauma but rarely following instrumented spinal fusion. More commonly, hyponatremia is seen following spine surgery, which may be iatrogenic, attributed to the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone release. The authors present a case of a 57-year-old woman who underwent a planned two-stage operation for scoliotic deformity correction. On the third postoperative day, the patient developed hypernatremia (sodium levels of 157 mmol/L) and polyuria. In conjunction with endocrinology, the patient was diagnosed with central DI. The patient was treated with desmopressin acetate (DDAVP), which led to resolution of her symptoms. DDAVP was temporary and eventually weaned off. Central DI is a possible cause of hypernatremia following significant spine surgery. Correct diagnosis is paramount for rapid and appropriate treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4b/2d/PMC3854577.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3745833", "abstract": "We examined 33 hypertensive (22 with comorbid type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)) and 29 normotensive (8 with T2DM) middle-aged and elderly adults, comparable in age and education. Relative to normotensive participants, those with hypertension, in addition to a higher prevalence of periventricular white matter (WM) lesions, had significantly lower WM microstructural integrity of major fiber tracts as seen with MRI-based diffusion tensor imaging. Among participants with hypertension, those with co-morbid T2DM (n = 22) had more widespread WM pathology than those without T2DM (n = 11). Furthermore and consistent with previous research, both hypertension and T2DM were related to decreased retinal arterial diameter. Further exploratory analysis demonstrated that the observed retinal arteriolar narrowing among individual with hypertension was associated with widespread subclinical losses in WM microstructural integrity and these associations were present predominantly in the frontal lobe. We found that T2DM adds to the damaging effects of hypertension on cerebral WM, and notably these effects were independent of age and body mass index. Given that the decrease in retinal arteriolar diameter may be a biomarker for parallel pathology in cerebral arterioles, our data suggest that the frontal lobe may be particularly vulnerable to microvascular damage in the presence of hypertension and T2DM.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/6c/PMC3745833.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4360848", "abstract": "Interpreting an abnormal serum calcium level in subjects with chronic kidney disease (CKD) requires the simultaneous evaluation of various clinical and laboratory parameters. An excessive intake of calcium salts and vitamin D overdosing may be the most common etiologies of hypercalcemia in individuals with advanced CKD. Nevertheless, it should be noted that such patients are susceptible to all diseases that may cause hypercalcemia in subjects without renal disease. In this report, we describe the case of a male chronic hemodialysis patient who developed asymptomatic hypercalcemia associated with polyarticular swelling. On the basis of the findings of systemic workup, he was finally diagnosed as having multiple myeloma. The so-called shoulder pad sign, which is pathognomonic for light chain amyloidosis, although its detection remains a challenge for physicians, was a clue leading to the prompt diagnosis of the disease in the current case. The impact of articular manifestations on the diagnostic strategy for assessing multiple myeloma is also discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f7/f1/PMC4360848.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5436014", "abstract": "Infrared thermography (IRT) is a real-time non-contact diagnostic tool with a broad potential for neurosurgical applications. Here we describe the intraoperative use of this technique in a single patient with newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). An 86-year-old female was admitted in the clinic with a 2-month history of slowly progressing left-sided paresis. Neuroimaging studies demonstrated an irregular space-occupying process consistent with a malignant glioma in the right fronto-temporo-insular region. An elective surgical intervention was performed by using 5-aminolevulinic acid fluorescence (BLUE 400, OPMI) and intraoperative IRT brain mapping (LWIR, 1.25 mRad IFOV, 0.05°C NETD). After dura opening, the cerebral surface appeared inconspicuous. However, IRT revealed a significantly colder area (Δt° 1.01°C), well corresponding to the cortical epicenter of the lesion. The underlying tumor was partially excised and the histological result was GBM. Intraoperative IRT seems to be a useful technique for subcortical convexity brain tumor localization. Further studies with a large number of patients are needed to prove the reliability of this method in GBM surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/93/cro-0010-0350.PMC5436014.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3999397", "abstract": " Sperm cryopreservation has been widely adopted for maintenance of the genetically engineered mouse (GEM). The cryopreserved sperm are being exchanged among many institutes worldwide. However, the recipients are not always able to obtain high fertilization rates with the frozen sperm shipped from senders. In this study, we cryopreserved mouse sperm via various methods and performed in vitro fertilization (IVF) in which the combination of methyl-beta-cyclodextrin for sperm preincubation and reduced glutathione for insemination was used (the MBCD-GSH IVF). In addition, frozen sperm sent from the Jackson Laboratory (USA) were thawed and used for IVF in the same manner. The fertilization rates of both the sperm cryopreserved via the methods applied in some countries and the cryopreserved GEM sperm improved when used with the MBCD-GSH IVF method. Therefore, we strongly believe that the MBCD-GSH IVF method brings about relatively high fertilization rates with any strain of frozen mouse sperm.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/1f/jrd-60-168.PMC3999397.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3608198", "abstract": "Correlation between intensity of free radical processes estimated by biochemiluminesce parameters, content of lipoperoxidation products, and changes of glutathione peroxidase (GP, EC 1.11.1.9) and glutathione reductase (GR, EC 1.6.4.2) activities at rats liver injury, after 12, 36, 70, 96, 110, and 125 hours     tetrachloromethane administration have been investigated. The histological examination of the liver sections of rats showed that prominent hepatocytes with marked vacuolisation and inflammatory cells which were arranged around the necrotic tissue are more at 96 h after exposure to CCl4. Moreover maximum increase in GR and GP activities, 2.1 and 2.5 times, respectively, was observed at 96 h after exposure to CCl4, what coincided with the maximum of free radical oxidation processes. Using a combination of reverse transcription and real-time polymerase chain reaction, expression of the glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase genes (Gpx1 and Gsr) was analyzed by the determination of their respective mRNAs in the rat liver tissue under toxic hepatitis conditions. The analyses of Gpx1 and Gsr expression revealed that the transcript levels increased in 2.5- and 3.0-folds, respectively. Western blot analysis revealed that the amounts of hepatic Gpx1 and Gsr proteins increased considerably after CCl4 administration. It can be proposed that the overexpression of these enzymes could be a mechanism of enhancement of hepatocytes tolerance to oxidative stress.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/77/PMC3608198.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3786537", "abstract": "Reproductive function is regulated by a plethora of signals that integrate physiological and environmental information. Among others, metabolic factors are key components of this circuit since they inform about the propitious timing for reproduction depending on energy availability. This information is processed mainly at the hypothalamus that, in turn, modulates gonadotropin release from the pituitary and, thereby, gonadal activity. Metabolic hormones, such as leptin, insulin, and ghrelin, act as indicators of the energy status and convey this information to the reproductive axis regulating its activity. In this review, we will analyse the central mechanisms involved in the integration of this metabolic information and their contribution to the control of the reproductive function. Particular attention will be paid to summarize the participation of GnRH, Kiss1, NPY, and POMC neurons in this process and their possible interactions to contribute to the metabolic control of reproduction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7e/f1/PMC3786537.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3820199", "abstract": " [Purpose] The aim of the present study was to perform a systematic review of the literature on the effect of different insoles on postural balance. [Subjects and Methods] A systematic review was conducted of four databases. The papers retrieved were evaluated based on the following inclusion criteria: 1) design: controlled clinical trial; 2) intervention: insole; 3) outcome: change in static postural balance; and 4) year of publication: 2005 to 2012. [Results] Twelve controlled trials were found comparing the effects of different insoles on postural balance. The papers had methodological quality scores of 3 or 4 on the PEDro scale. [Conclusion] Insoles have benefits that favor better postural balance and control.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/6c/jpts-25-1353.PMC3820199.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5419235", "abstract": " Background: In-service training courses are one of the most available programs that are used to improve the quantity and quality level of the staff services in various organizations, including libraries and information centers. With the advent of new technologies in the field of education, the problems and shortcomings of traditional in-service training courses were replaced with virtual ones. This study aimed to evaluate the virtual in-service training courses from the librarians' point of view in libraries of state universities of medical sciences in Tehran.   Methods: This was a descriptive- analytical study. The statistical population consisted of all librarians at libraries of universities of medical sciences in Tehran. Out of 103 librarians working in the libraries under the study, 93 (90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/3b/mjiri-30-458.PMC5419235.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3255294", "abstract": "Cross-linking of corneal collagen (CXL) is a promising approach for the treatment of keratoconus and secondary ectasia. Several long-term and short-term complications of CXL have been studied and documented. The possibility of a secondary infection after the procedure exists because the patient is subjected to epithelial debridement and the application of a soft contact lens. Formation of temporary corneal haze, permanent scars, endothelial damage, treatment failure, sterile infiltrates, and herpes reactivation are the other reported complications of this procedure. Cross-linking is a low-invasive procedure with low complication and failure rate but it may have direct or primary complications due to incorrect technique application or incorrect patient's inclusion and indirect or secondary complications related to therapeutic soft contact lens, patient's poor hygiene, and undiagnosed concomitant ocular surface diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/23/bb/PMC3255294.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3698427", "abstract": "Dietary glutamate (Glu) stimulates to evoke the umami taste, one of the five basic tastes, enhancing food palatability. But it is also the main gut energy source for the absorption and metabolism for each nutrient, thus, only a trace amount of Glu reaches the general circulation. Recently, we demonstrated a unique gut sensing system for free Glu (glutamate signaling). Glu is the only nutrient among amino acids, sugars and electrolytes that activates rat gastric vagal afferents from the luminal side specifically via metabotropic Glu receptors type 1 on mucosal cells releasing mucin and nitrite mono-oxide (NO), then NO stimulates serotonin (5HT) release at the enterochromaffin cell. Finally released 5HT stimulates 5HT3 receptor at the nerve end of the vagal afferent fiber. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (f-MRI, 4.7 T) analysis revealed that luminal sensing with 1 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d3/3a/PMC3698427.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4898751", "abstract": "Context The objective of the present review was to collect published spiritual needs questionnaires and to present a clear image of the research condition of this domain. Evidence Acquisition First, an electronic search was conducted with no limits on time span (until June 2015) or language in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, ProQuest and Google Scholar. All derivations of the keywords religion and spiritual alongside need and its synonyms were included in the search. Researches that introduced new tools was then selected and included in the study. Due to the limited quantity of questionnaires in this domain and with no consideration given to the existence or lack of exact standardization information, all of the questionnaires were included in the final report. Results Eight questionnaires were found: patients spiritual needs assessment scale (PSNAS), spiritual needs inventory (SNI), spiritual interests related to illness tool (SpIRIT), spiritual needs questionnaire (SpNQ), spiritual needs assessment for patients (SNAP), spiritual needs scale (SNS), spiritual care needs inventory (SCNI), and spiritual needs questionnaire for palliative care. Conclusions These questionnaires have been designed from a limited medical perspective and often involve cultural concepts which complicate their cross-cultural applicability.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/43/61/ijpbs-10-01-4011.PMC4898751.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5198759", "abstract": "Editor’s Note: While early research focused on the political roots of terrorism, many of today’s investigators are probing the psychological factors that drive adherents to commit their deadly deeds. Are terrorists mentally ill or do they rationally weigh the costs and benefits of their actions and conclude that terrorism is profitable? Our author traces recent advances in using imaging and experimental research to determine what motivates monstrous acts.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7f/c6/PMC5198759.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3503305", "abstract": "Two hundred and 91 patients showing signs and symptoms of bacterial vaginosis (BV) were randomized to receive topical treatment with Fitostimoline (vaginal cream and vaginal ovules + vaginal washing) or benzydamine hydrochloride (vaginal cream + vaginal washing) for 7 days. Signs (leucorrhoea, erythema, oedema, and erosion) and symptoms (burning, pain, itching, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, and dysuria) (scored 0–3) were evaluated at baseline and at the end of treatment; the total symptoms score (TSS) was also calculated. In 125 patients, a bacterial vaginosis was confirmed by vaginal swab test. The primary efficacy variable analysis, that is, the percentage of patients with therapeutic success (almost complete disappearance of signs and symptoms), demonstrated that Fitostimoline ovules and vaginal cream were therapeutically equivalent and that pooled Fitostimoline treatment was not inferior to benzydamine hydrochloride. All the treatments were well tolerated, with only minor local adverse events infrequently reported. The results of this study confirmed that gynaecological Fitostimoline is a safe and effective topical treatment for BV.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/69/67/PMC3503305.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2607050", "abstract": " Introduction. Posttraumatic psychopathology (PTP) describes the spectrum of conditions that can complicate the recovery from commonly occurring musculoskeletal trauma. There is a clear association with the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPAA), and we wished to examine the predictive value of proinflammatory markers of the HPAA and of the GABA, which acts as an inhibitory regulator. Methods. Levels of proinflammatory markers and GABA were measured in 84 patients who had suffered musculoskeletal injuries requiring hospitalisation. PTP was assessed by the use of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) at presentation and again at two- and six-month reviews. Results. Significant psychological disturbance was noted in 39", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9c/04/PMC2607050.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4536643", "abstract": "IN BRIEF For the goals of reducing diabetic kidney disease (DKD) onset and progression, approaches to nutritional therapy are a subject of much debate. This article discusses selected nutrients that have a role in affecting DKD outcomes and introduces application of newer, individualized concepts for healthful eating, as supported by clinical evidence relevant to patients with DKD. Selected aspects of management of advanced DKD are also reviewed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/21/83/181.PMC4536643.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3621751", "abstract": "The nuclear envelope forms a cocoon that surrounds the cellular genome keeping it out of harm’s way and can be utilized by the cell as a means of functionally regulating chromatin structure and gene expression. At the same time, this double-layered membrane system constitutes a formidable obstacle to the unimpeded flow of genetic information between the genome and the rest of the cell. The nuclear pore has been long considered the sole passageway between nucleus and cytoplasm. A new report challenges this view and proposes a novel mechanism by which RNA transcripts destined for localized translation in highly polarized cell types, cross both inner and outer nuclear envelope membranes and reach the cytoplasm without utilizing the nuclear pore route.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4a/ba/nucl-4-95.PMC3621751.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4983306", "abstract": "Objectives:  Anterior maxilla, known as the esthetic zone, plays an important role in facial and smile esthetics. This study assessed the frequency of implant treatments in the esthetic zone of patients presenting to Dental Implant Department of Tehran University during 2002–2012. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on dental records of patients receiving implant treatment during 2002–2012. Patient records were retrieved from the archives and patient demographics, implant characteristics, failure rate, prevalence of complications and implant systems were collected. The data were reported as frequency and percentage. Results: Of a total of 2,381 implants placed in the mentioned time period, 492 (20.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d4/55/PMC4983306.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3401568", "abstract": " Objective. To determine the dose response and toxicity threshold of micro-collimated X-rays delivered to porcine maculae by a stereotactic radiosurgical system after 270 days. Methods. Twelve eyes of six Yucatan mini-swine were randomized to receive up to 90 Gy to the retina, using an office-based trans-pars plana delivery system. To determine the safety profile of this radiation delivery, ophthalmic examination, fundus photography, fluorescein angiography (FA), and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were obtained at multiple time points up to 270 days post treatment. Results. No abnormalities were noted on external examination. Cataracts were noted in 4 of 12 eyes. Dose and time-dependent changes were noted on fundus examination, FA, ICG and SD-OCT. No significant abnormalities were seen in the control, 16 Gy or 24 Gy groups using any modality. Histopathology revealed a dose response effect with no discernable lesions in the 16 Gy group. Conclusion. The X-ray delivery system precisely targets the porcine retina in vivo with little effect on surrounding structures. No ophthalmic or intracranial adverse effects were noted at clinically relevant doses at 270 days following radiation delivery.  ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/97/PMC3401568.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2775699", "abstract": "Both the clinical and the histopathological diagnostic difficulties of oxyuriasis in unusual sites and their importance from a clinical point of view are pointed out. The authors report two ectoptic cases of enterobiasis observed in Northern Italy, one located in a fallopian tube of a 57-year-old woman and the other in a perianal subcutaneous tissue of a 59-year-old man, mimicking tumor-like lesions. The authors take advantage of the occasion to focus the attention of the medical world on this subject, lamenting the scarce importance given to this parasitosis in university courses of medical schools and in medical textbooks as it is incorrectly considered “out-of-fashion.”", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ed/f2/PMC2775699.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3088521", "abstract": "Background Conventional medicine and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are merging into the broader field of “integrative medicine.” Massage is no longer considered complementary or alternative in some conventional medical circles today. Purpose We aimed to determine the prevalence of massage use among children with cerebral palsy (CP) in the Pacific Northwest in the United States, the reasons that massage is being used, and the limits of recruitment for a future randomized controlled trial. Methods This study, the first step in a three-stage research plan, was conducted at the Neurodevelopmental and Neurology clinics at Seattle Children’s Hospital, a tertiary pediatric hospital that provides service to patients primarily from Washington, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho. As a feasibility study (stage one), it precedes a planned pilot study (stage two), and subsequently, a full-scale randomized controlled trial (stage three) of whether massage can improve the health of children with CP. The study subjects—104 families with a child with CP ranging in age from 17 months to 21 years—were surveyed by the principal investigator and a research assistant in exam rooms at the hospital. Results In the families surveyed, 80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ef/2d/PMC3088521.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5019261", "abstract": "Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are major causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In order to assess the relative contribution of HBV and HCV to HCC worldwide, and identify changes over time, we conducted a systematic review of case series published up to the year 2014. Eligible studies had to report seroprevalence of both hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibodies to HCV (anti‐HCV), alone and in combination, for at least 20 adult HCC cases. Studies using a first‐generation enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay test for HCV were excluded. A total of 119,000 HCC cases in 260 studies were included from 50 countries. Most European and American countries show a preponderance of HCV over HBV and a substantial fraction of viral marker–negative cases. Asian and African countries generally show a predominance of HBV. The fraction of HCV‐positive HCC cases is substantial in Taiwan, Mongolia, Japan, and Pakistan as well as in Western‐Central Asia and Northern Africa. No eligible studies were available in Oceania, large parts of Africa, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia. The United States, Brazil, and Germany show evidence of higher prevalence of HCV in HCC since the year 2000. Conversely, Japan and Italy show a decline in the proportion of HCV‐positive HCC. Conclusion: HBV and HCV are predominant causes of HCC in virtually all world areas, with a growing fraction of HCC cases in several countries attributable to HCV. (Hepatology 2015;62:1190‐1200)", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f1/d6/HEP-62-1190.PMC5019261.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4002128", "abstract": "Genomic integrity is constantly challenged by DNA damaging agents such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Consequently, DNA damage can compromise the fidelity and efficiency of essential DNA metabolic processes, including replication and transcription, which may contribute significantly to the etiology of many human diseases. Here, we review one family of DNA lesions, the epimeric 2-deoxyribose lesions, which arise from the improper chemical repair of the 2-deoxyribose radicals. Unlike most other DNA lesions, the epimeric 2-deoxyribose lesions are indistinguishable from their corresponding unmodified nucleosides in both molecular mass and chemical reactivity. We placed our emphasis of discussion on the formation of these lesions, their impact on the structure and stability of duplex DNA, their biological consequences, their potential therapeutic relevance, and future research directions about these modified nucleosides.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b4/ec/PMC4002128.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3180592", "abstract": "There is increasing evidence that the same brain reward circuits involved in perpetuating drug abuse are involved in the hedonic urges and food cravings observed clinically in overweight and obese subjects. A polymorphism of the D2 dopamine receptor which renders it less sensitive to dopamine stimulation has been proposed to promote self-stimulatory behavior such as consuming alcohol, abusing drugs, or binging on foods. It is important to determine how this polymorphism may interact with other well-known candidate genes for obesity including polymorphisms of the leptin receptor gene and the opiomelanocortin gene. Leptin is a proinflammatory cytokine as well as a long-term signal maintaining body fat. Upper-body obesity stimulates systemic inflammation through the action of multiple cytokines including leptin throughout many organs including the brain. The association of numerous diseases including diabetes mellitus, heart disease, as well as depression with chronic low-grade inflammation due to abdominal obesity has raised the possibility that obesity-associated inflammation affecting the brain may promote addictive behaviors leading to a self-perpetuating cycle that may affect not only foods but addictions to drugs, alcohol, and gambling. This new area of interdisciplinary research holds the promise of developing new approaches to treating drug abuse and obesity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c4/af/12035_2011_Article_8180.PMC3180592.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3891162", "abstract": "We report here on a case of double-orifice mitral valve with mitral regurgitation in a 75-year-old female who had complaints of mild dyspnea. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography showed two orifices that were supplied by their own chordae from a different papillary muscle. Color Doppler echocardiography revealed moderate to severe mitral regurgitation due to the flail posterior leaflet of the anterolateral orifice. Except for the persistent left superior vena cava, no other congenital anomaly was demonstrated. The patient became asymptomatic with the administration of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor and diuretics, and she has been scheduled for long term follow-up.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/78/kjim-20-251.PMC3891162.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3666070", "abstract": "Objective: Accurate delivery of torque to implant screws is critical to generate ideal preload in the screw joint and to offer protection against screw loosening. Mechanical torque-limiting devices (MTLDs) are available for this reason. In this study, the accuracy of one type of friction-style and two types of spring-style MTLDs at baseline, following fatigue conditions and sterilization processes were determined. Materials and Methods: Five unused MTLDs were selected from each of Straumann (ITI), Astra TECH and CWM systems. To measure the output of each MTLD, a digital torque gauge with a 3-jaw chuck was used to hold the driver. Force was applied to the MTLDs until either the friction styles released at a pre-calibrated torque value or the spring styles flexed to a pre-calibrated limit (target torque value). The peak torque value was recorded and the procedure was repeated 5 times for each MTLD. Then MTLDs were subjected to fatigue conditions at 500 and 1000 times and steam sterilization processes at 50 and 100 times and the peak torque value was recorded again at each stage. Results: Adjusted difference between measured torque values and target torque values differed significantly between stages for all 3 systems. Adjusted difference did not differ significantly between systems at all stages, but differed significantly between two different styles at baseline and 500 times fatigue stages. Conclusion: Straumann (ITI) devices differed minimally from target torque values at all stages. MTLDs with Spring-style were significantly more accurate than Friction-style device in achieving their target torque values at baseline and 500 times fatigue.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/43/fa/jod-10-112.PMC3666070.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5098594", "abstract": "Objective To study the incidences of and risk factors for chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) retinopathy in Thai rheumatologic patients. Methods A retrospective cohort study of 234 rheumatologic patients receiving either CQ or HCQ was conducted. Patients were divided based on whether or not they developed retinopathy as retinopathy-positive or negative groups. Medical records giving details regarding age, gender, body weight, underlying diseases, daily doses, and cumulative doses of CQ or HCQ were reviewed. CQ and HCQ retinopathy were diagnosed by indirect ophthalmoscopy, Humphrey visual field test, and optical coherence tomography. The main outcome measures were incidences and risk factors of CQ and HCQ retinopathy. Results The CQ retinopathy was detected in 14 of 173 patients (8.09", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/29/opth-10-2179.PMC5098594.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5022797", "abstract": "We present a case report of a 52-year-old man who was hospitalized for right leg pain due to a relevant hemorrhagic effusion. He was on dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT): acetylsalicylic acid and ticagrelor, a reversible P2Y12 receptor antagonist. Signs, symptoms, and laboratory blood tests led to the diagnosis of acquired hemophilia A (AHA). Ticagrelor therapy-associated AHA was hypothesized due to the fact that, before adding this drug, all laboratory and clinical examinations were repeatedly normal. Prednisone and cyclophosphamide treatment was started without DAPT interruption due to the high risk of stent thrombosis. After 10 days, prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time dropped from 107 to 49 seconds, the patient’s factor VIII (FVIII) levels gradually normalized over the following few weeks, and FVIII inhibitor titer was negative. Recently, some reports have established a link between the development of AHA and treatment with clopidogrel, an irreversible P2Y12 receptor antagonist. However, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that a link between AHA and ticagrelor has been reported.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0f/59/PMC5022797.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4830188", "abstract": "Objective: To identify the genetic defect for adult-onset primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) in a family with 5 patients. Methods: Whole-exome sequencing was performed to identify the shared genetic variants in 3 affected members in a PLS family with 5 affected individuals. Sanger sequencing was used for validation of the variants and for cosegregation analysis. Mitochondrial activity for both patients and unaffected siblings was measured using a SeaHorse metabolic analyzer. Results: Whole-exome sequencing and subsequent cosegregation analysis demonstrated that compound heterozygous missense variants L695P and I743T in SPG7 were the only mutations cosegregating with the disease in an autosomal recessive fashion in this family. The parents and siblings are genetically heterozygous and clinically unaffected. Functional studies suggested that the PLS-associated SPG7 mutants affect mitochondrial function when glucose is reduced. Conclusions: Compound heterozygote mutations in SPG7 are associated with adult-onset PLS, extending the spectrum of SPG7-linked neurologic diseases. Patients with the PLS phenotype should have genetic testing for paraplegin, especially when the condition is familial.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/05/59/NG2015001404.PMC4830188.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3894761", "abstract": "Objectives  This in vitro study evaluated the effectiveness of three carbamide peroxide concentrations used for tooth bleaching treatments.  Material and Methods  Sixty bovine dental slabs (6x6x3 mm) were obtained, sequentially polished, submitted to artificial staining (baseline) and randomized into four groups (n=15), according to the bleaching agent concentration: distilled water (control), 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5f/d4/jaos-20-02-0186.PMC3894761.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897465", "abstract": "In order to identify the presence of lead in glazed ceramic pots in a Mexico-US border city, 41 clay pots were sampled. The pots were purchased in several establishments located in different geographical areas of the city. The presence of lead was determined using LeadCheck Swabs. Most (58.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a8/1a/PMC4897465.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3016037", "abstract": "Background: Bleeding is a major complication in contemporary gynecological surgery. We discusses this rare, albeit potentially serious, unexpected complication. The authors mean by “reactionary,” hemorrhage that occurs within the first 24 hours after surgery. More or less, all gynecological surgeons have had to deal with this situation at some stage of their career. The seriousness of this complication stems from the fact that often the surgeon is not in the immediate vicinity to promptly step in and treat the patient. Nevertheless, the key to successful management is prompt diagnosis, immediate resuscitation, and operative intervention. Methods: By using the collective hospital database, we reviewed 719 patient records. The authors operated on these patients between November 1990 and March 2007 (inclusive) in one hospital, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, the main teaching hospital in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. The procedures performed in the 719 patients comprised 476 vaginal hysterectomies and 243 laparoscopic hysterectomies. Both public and private patients were included. The objective of the review was to establish the incidence of postoperative reactionary hemorrhage following the initial operation, as defined by the number of patients returning to the operating theatre (OT) because of postoperative hemorrhage within 24 hours of the initial hysterectomy. Results: Of the 719 patients, 6 experienced reactionary postoperative hemorrhage, 3 each in the vaginal hysterectomy and laparoscopic hysterectomy groups. That would make the incidence of postoperative reactionary hemorrhage 0.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ee/2f/jsls-12-1-81.PMC3016037.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3502206", "abstract": "We previously reported the transient appearance of an actin superstructure, called the zipper-like structure, during the primary fusion (fusion of mononuclear precursors) and the secondary fusion (fusion of multinucleated cells) of osteoclasts. Here, we focus on the actin-based superstructures that link two precursor cells during the secondary fusion event. In one type of secondary fusion, the osteoclasts transformed the podosome belts into the zipper-like structure at the site of cell contact and the apposed plasma membranes in the zipper-like structure attached to each other via a discontinuous interface. In another type of secondary fusion, the osteoclasts used a filopodium-like protrusion that linked the two cells. Both types of cell fusion required a lag period between the adhesion of the cells and the fusion of cell bodies. Thus, the secondary fusion of osteoclasts uses actin-based superstructures for cell-cell interactions before the definitive fusion of the plasma membranes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/24/cib-5-453.PMC3502206.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4344546", "abstract": "Tumor-infiltrating leukocytes are often induced by the cancer microenvironment to display a protumor, proangiogenic phenotype. This “polarization” has been described for several myeloid cells, in particular macrophages. Natural killer (NK) cells represent another population of innate immune cells able to infiltrate tumors. The role of NK in tumor progression and angiogenesis has not yet been fully investigated. Several studies have shown that tumor-infiltrating NK (here referred to as “TINKs”) and tumor-associated NK (altered peripheral NK cells, which here we call “TANKs”) are compromised in their ability to lysew tumor cells. Recent data have suggested that they are potentially protumorigenic and can also acquire a proangiogenic phenotype. Here we review the properties of TINKs and TANKs and compare their activities to that of NK cells endowed with a physiological proangiogenic phenotype, in particular decidual NK cells. We speculate on the potential origins of TINKs and TANKs and on the immune signals involved in their differentiation and polarization. The TINK and TANK phenotype has broad implications in the immune response to tumors, ranging from a deficient control of cancer and cancer stem cells to an altered crosstalk with other relevant players of the immune response, such as dendritic cells, to induction of cancer angiogenesis. With this recently acquired knowledge that has not yet been put into perspective, we point out new potential avenues for therapeutic intervention involving NK cells as a target or an ally in oncology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/bd/dju200.PMC4344546.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3891421", "abstract": "Most broncholiths are related to infection with fungus or tuberculosis and they involve the lymph nodes; those cases that are caused by silicosis are rarely seen. Broncholith might lead complication such as bronchial rupture into the mediastinum, which can result in hemoptysis, cough, repeated pneumonia and so on. Flexible bronchoscopy plays an important part in the diagnosis of broncholithiasis, but its therapeutic application in the clinical setting is controversial. We report here on two cases of broncholith removal without complication with the use of a balloon catheter and tripod forceps using flexible bronchoscopy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c5/ea/kjim-20-90.PMC3891421.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4427769", "abstract": "Low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of the unaffected hemisphere (UH-LF-rTMS) in patients with stroke can decrease interhemispheric inhibition from the unaffected to the affected hemisphere and improve hand dexterity and strength of the paretic hand. The objective of this proof-of-principle study was to explore, for the first time, effects of UH-LF-rTMS as add-on therapy to motor rehabilitation on short-term intracortical inhibition (SICI) and intracortical facilitation (ICF) of the motor cortex of the unaffected hemisphere (M1UH) in patients with ischemic stroke. Eighteen patients were randomized to receive, immediately before rehabilitation treatment, either active or sham UH-LF-rTMS, during two weeks. Resting motor threshold (rMT), SICI, and ICF were measured in M1UH before the first session and after the last session of treatment. There was a significant increase in ICF in the active group compared to the sham group after treatment, and there was no significant differences in changes in rMT or SICI. ICF is a measure of intracortical synaptic excitability, with a relative contribution of spinal mechanisms. ICF is typically upregulated by glutamatergic agonists and downregulated by gabaergic antagonists. The observed increase in ICF in the active group, in this hypothesis-generating study, may be related to M1UH reorganization induced by UH-LF-rTMS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/50/da/PMC4427769.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4346008", "abstract": "Background Nephrotoxicity is a serious adverse effect of calcineurin inhibitor therapy in patients after heart transplantation (HTX). Aim In this retrospective registry study, renal function within the first 2 years after HTX in patients receiving de novo calcineurin inhibitor treatment, that is, cyclosporine A (CSA) or tacrolimus (TAC), was analyzed. In a consecutive subgroup analysis, renal function in patients receiving conventional tacrolimus (CTAC) was compared with that of patients receiving extended-release tacrolimus (ETAC). Methods Data from 150 HTX patients at Heidelberg Heart Transplantation Center were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were continuously receiving the primarily applied calcineurin inhibitor during the first 2 years after HTX and received follow-up care according to center practice. Results Within the first 2 years after HTX, serum creatinine increased significantly in patients receiving CSA (P<0.0001), whereas in patients receiving TAC, change of serum creatinine was not statistically significant (P=not statistically significant [ns]). McNemar’s test detected a significant accumulation of patients with deterioration of renal function in the first half year after HTX among patients receiving CSA (P=0.0004). In patients receiving TAC, no significant accumulation of patients with deterioration of renal function during the first 2 years after HTX was detectable (all P=ns). Direct comparison of patients receiving CTAC versus those receiving ETAC detected no significant differences regarding renal function between patients primarily receiving CTAC or ETAC treatment during study period (all P=ns). Conclusion CSA is associated with a more pronounced deterioration of renal function, especially in the first 6 months after HTX, in comparison with patients receiving TAC as baseline immunosuppressive therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/d3/dddt-9-1217.PMC4346008.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2814231", "abstract": "HIV-infected pregnant women with undetectable plasma HIV RNA concentrations at delivery pose a minimal risk of vertical transmission. We studied the kinetics and the determinants of the virologic response to antiretroviral therapy in 117 consecutive pregnancies. Patients who initiated therapy during pregnancy had a VL decrease of 2 and 2.5 log10 after 4 and 24 weeks, respectively. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of the protease inhibitors administered in doses recommended for nonpregnant adults resulted in below-target concentrations in 29", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f4/5c/PMC2814231.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649535", "abstract": "Persistent Mullerian duct syndrome (PMDS) with transverse testicular ectopia (TTE) is a rare syndrome. We report a case of PMDS associated with TTE in a 38 year old male discovered during surgery for a left inguinal hernia. Hernioplasty with excision of the persistent mullerian duct structures was done and the excised structures sent for histopathologic examination (HPE) which revealed PMDS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9a/d3/PMC3649535.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5315218", "abstract": "Background Thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) comprises a spectrum of well-recognized clinical signs including exophthalmos, eyelid retraction, soft tissue swelling, ocular misalignment, keratopathy as well as a number of less common manifestations. Subconjunctival fat prolapse is a rare clinical condition occurring typically spontaneously in elderly patients with a mean age of 65–72 years. We describe subconjunctival prolapse of orbital fat as an uncommon clinical association of TAO. Materials and methods Observational study of six patients presenting with a subconjunctival protrusion under the lateral canthus in a series of 198 consecutive cases with TAO examined at a tertiary care referral center. Results A superotemporally located yellowish, very soft, freely mobile subconjunctival protrusion developed unilaterally in two and bilaterally in four patients with TAO (incidence 3.03", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/68/ac/cia-12-359.PMC5315218.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4305579", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of the BSID-III through the comparison of results from the BSID-III and KICDT and analyzing the correlation for each item. [Subjects] The subjects of the study were 27 children diagnosed with delayed development who had visited a pediatric rehabilitation care facility between January 2012 and October 2013. They are younger than 42 months of age. Other children with a congenital lesion or other conditions revealed by brain CT or MRI were excluded. [Results] The cognitive and fine motor categories among the lower categories of the BSID-III demonstrated strong correlations with the lower categories of the KICDT; however, the social-emotional category did not show any correlation. As a result, the BSID-III may be a useful testing tool for screening or for identification of developmental stages in children with delayed development. [Conclusion] Studies with various groups and ages should be done in the future, and there should be the Korean standards for the BSID-III.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d3/75/jpts-27-269.PMC4305579.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4171765", "abstract": "In this study, we investigated the influence of two SNPs (rs846910 and rs12086634) of the HSD11B1 gene that encodes 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1(11β-HSD1), the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of cortisol to cortisone, on variables associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome in 215 individuals of both sexes from southern Brazil. The HSD11B1 gene variants were genotyped using the TaqMan SNP genotyping assay. Glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol were measured by standard automated methods. Significant results were found in women, with carriers of the G allele of SNP rs12086634 having higher glucose levels than non-carriers. Carriers of the A allele of SNP rs846910 had higher levels of HDL-cholesterol. The involvement of both polymorphisms as independent factors in determining the levels of glucose and HDL-cholesterol was confirmed by multiple regression analysis (β = 0.19 ±0.09, p = 0.03 and β= 0.22 ± 0.10, p = 0.03, respectively). Our findings suggest that the HSD11B1SNPs studied may indirectly influence glucose and HDL-cholesterol metabolism in women, possibly through down-regulation of the HSD11B1 gene by estrogen.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d5/f2/PMC4171765.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4330817", "abstract": "Diffraction limit is usually a thorny problem in an optical inspection system. In this investigation, a model-based deconvolution technique was developed to recover diffraction-limited images, where images with sizes smaller than the diffraction limit could be recognized. Experiments were carried out with a traditional microscope at 200× magnification coupled with a halogen light source for a series of line width samples. The point spread function of the imaging optics was first obtained from an estimated model and then combined with a nonlinear deconvolution algorithm to calculate the full width at half maximum and reconstruct the line widths. Experimental results indicate that a measurement error below one pixel size of the measurement system is achievable. Accordingly, the target of nanoscale line width inspection based on a low cost and real-time image processing technique can be fulfilled, which greatly increases the ability of nanoscaling on optical microscopes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/42/e2/PMC4330817.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4823566", "abstract": "Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a frequent life-threatening condition in emergency departments. Careful diagnosis is important, and different diagnostic tests such as electrocardiogram (ECG), biochemical markers, echocardiogram, and computed tomography are required. Although ECG is a cheap and rapid diagnostic test for pulmonary embolism, it has some limitations in the differential diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome and acute PE. Herein, we report ECG results of a patient diagnosed with acute PE mimicking acute coronary syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/f9/main.PMC4823566.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2814094", "abstract": " Aim. To describe the retention rates for biological therapies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in a clinical setting. Methods. All patients managed in a dedicated biological therapy clinic in a teaching hospital in Australia were assessed for continuation on biological treatments and reasons for switching to an alternative biological agent or cessation of treatment. Results. There was a lower retention rate for RA patients on biological therapies compared to PsA and AS patients and the retention rate for RA patients was lower than that reported in RCTs. Conclusions. The retention rate on biological therapies for RA patients was lower in the clinic setting than what is reported in RCTs. The reasons for the lower retention rate in the clinical setting are discussed but no clear determinants for nonresponse to biological agents were identifiable. These agents have very limited steroid sparing effects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7e/62/PMC2814094.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3488634", "abstract": "Objective Microvascular decompression (MVD) for hemifacial spasm (HFS) is a safe and effective treatment with favorable outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of delayed cranirve ( VI, VII, and VIII ) palsy following MVD and its clinical courses. Methods Between January 1998 and December 2009, 1354 patients underwent MVD for HFS at our institution. Of them, 100 patients (7.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9d/37/jkns-52-288.PMC3488634.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4272474", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Aim of the work: Examine clinical characteristics of aerobic vaginitis and mixed infection for the purpose of better diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficiency. Materials and methods: Prospective research has been conducted at Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department for Microbiology and Pathology at Polyclinic for laboratory diagnostic and Gynecology and Obstetrics Department at Health Center Sapna. Examination included 100 examinees with the signs of vaginitis. Examination consisted of: anamnesis, clinical, gynecological and microbiological examination of vaginal smear. Results: The average age of the examinees was 32,62±2,6. Examining vaginal smears of the examinees with signs of vaginitis in 96", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/86/MA-67-428.PMC4272474.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3561602", "abstract": "Purpose This study aims to retrospectively evaluate dosimetric parameters calculated as biological effective dose in relation to outcome in patients with cervical cancer treated with various treatment approaches, including radiotherapy with and without surgery. Material and methods Calculations of biological effective dose (BED) were performed on data from a retrospective analysis of 171 patients with cervical carcinoma stages IB-IIB treated with curative intent, between January 1989 and December 1991. 43 patients were treated only with radiotherapy and 128 patients were treated with a combination of radiotherapy and surgery. External beam radiotherapy was delivered with 6-21 MV photons from linear accelerators. Brachytherapy was delivered either with a manual radium technique or with a remote afterloading technique. The treatment outcome was evaluated at 5 years. Results The disease-specific survival rate was 87", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/72/JCB-4-19995.PMC3561602.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4025119", "abstract": "Objective Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) is a pathogenic E. coli that may cause hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) after diarrheal disease through Shiga toxins. Management of the patients with STEC infection is different from that of other diarrheal diseases due to increase in frequency of HUS after antibiotic administration. Few studies were conducted in Iran and epidemiology of STEC remains obscure; this necessitates examination of stools especially in young children for this bacterium. Methods We determined the frequency of STEC in 947 E. coli strains isolated from diarrheal stools of children less than 14 years in Tehran with conventional culture methods and multiplex-PCR via determining the STX1 and STX2 genes, between October 2008 and September 2009. We also evaluated the association between stool exam findings and presence of STEC. Findings Twenty seven (2.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/31/da/IJPD-23-637.PMC4025119.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3786521", "abstract": " Background. Hypertensive disorder generally complicates 5–10 percent of all pregnancies. Angiogenic growth factors may be helpful for the diagnosis and prediction of preeclampsia. Therefore, in this study we attempted to determine the serum levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and nitric oxide (NO) metabolite (nitrite) in preeclampsia patients and compared the levels with those obtained from normal pregnant women. Methods. Ninety pregnant women (19–33 years old) in two groups of preeclampsia and normal were considered during 2012. The levels of ADMA, VEGF, and nitrite were measured in maternal serum samples using ELISA kits. Results. Significant increase of VEGF and nitrite levels was observed in preeclampsia patients when compared with other groups (P < 0.05). The serum level of ADMA demonstrated a similar increased trend in preeclampsia patients; however, the increase was not statistically significant (P = 0.08). Conclusion. The findings reveal that the elevation of serum levels of VEGF and nitrite and possibly ADMA may be involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/46/0c/PMC3786521.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3810439", "abstract": "Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of caprylic triglyceride (CT) in patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in routine clinical practice via review of medical records and caregiver questionnaires. Methods Participants were outpatients aged ≥50 years with a diagnosis of probable mild-to-moderate AD who had received CT for ≥6 months. The primary outcome was change from baseline in the patient’s condition as rated by the treating physician using a physician’s overall assessment. Results A total of 55 patients were included. The physician’s overall assessment indicated that  80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ad/d7/ndt-9-1619.PMC3810439.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5240318", "abstract": "Purpose Cephalomedullary nail (CM nail) in the treatment of femoral intertrochanteric fractures is in the lime light in recent years. The purpose of this study is to compare surgical outcomes between experienced surgeon and non-experienced surgeons in respect of CM nail for femoral intertrochanteric fractures. Materials and Methods The 129 patients underwent CM nail for femoral intertrochanteric fracture more than six months of follow-up from April 2011 to March 2014 in Seoul Medical Center (Seoul, Korea) were participated in this study. For this study, group A consisted of experienced surgeons who performed more than 500 times of CM nail, and group B consisted of non-experienced surgeons who performed less than 50 times of CM nail. Clinical and radiologic outcomes, complications and the need for reoperation between both groups were compared in the study. Results According to clinical result, both the mean operation time and transfusion volume were significantly longer and greater in group B (P<0.05). In the radiologic outcomes, adequacy of reduction, tip-apex distance and numbers of case placed in the Cleveland zones 5, 6 and 8; there was no statistical difference between both groups. Moreover, rate of complication and reoperation had same results as radiologic outcomes. Conclusion There was no significant difference with statistical data in complications from CM nail for femoral intertrochanteric fractures between experienced surgeon and non-experienced surgeon. Although the operation time and transfusion volume were significantly longer and greater in the case of operation by non-experienced surgeon, satisfactory performance was seen in the complications and the need for reoperation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/22/hp-28-225.PMC5240318.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5217773", "abstract": "65 year-old-male presented with a one-week history of high grade fever, fatigue and confusion which began abruptly two days after a cystoscopy procedure. Past medical history included pulmonary sarcoidosis diagnosed by mediastinal lymph biopsy, diabetes and hypertension. On admission he was febrile and confused with stable vital signs. Initial workup included negative Head CT and lumbar puncture. Blood work revealed normal metabolic and liver function tests with progressive anemia, thrombocytopenia and atypical lymphocytosis of 15–20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ce/ec/main.PMC5217773.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3984195", "abstract": "Statistical analysis of data is crucial in cephalometric investigations. There are certainly excellent examples of good statistical practice in the field, but some articles published worldwide have carried out inappropriate analyses. Objective The purpose of this study was to show that when the double records of each patient are traced on the same occasion, a control chart for differences between readings needs to be drawn, and limits of agreement and coefficients of repeatability must be calculated.  Material and methods Data from a well-known paper in Orthodontics were used for showing common statistical practices in cephalometric investigations and for proposing a new technique of analysis.  Results A scatter plot of the two radiograph readings and the two model readings with the respective regression lines are shown. Also, a control chart for the mean of the differences between radiograph readings was obtained and a coefficient of repeatability was calculated.  Conclusions A standard error assuming that mean differences are zero, which is referred to in Orthodontics and Facial Orthopedics as the Dahlberg error, can be calculated only for estimating precision if accuracy is already proven. When double readings are collected, limits of agreement and coefficients of repeatability must be calculated. A graph with differences of readings should be presented and outliers discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/bb/jaos-19-05-0488.PMC3984195.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3388698", "abstract": "The aviation industry has made significant progress in identifying the skills and behaviors that result in effective teamwork. Its conceptualization of teamwork, development of training programs, and design of assessment tools are highly relevant to the intensive care unit (ICU). Team skills are important for maintaining safety in both domains, as multidisciplinary teams must work effectively under highly complex, stressful, and uncertain conditions. However, there are substantial differences in the nature of work and structure of teams in the ICU in comparison with those in aviation. While intensive care medicine may wish to use the advances made by the aviation industry for conceptualizing team skills and implementing team training programs, interventions must be tailored to the highly specific demands of the ICU.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8f/72/PMC3388698.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1796954", "abstract": "Substantial data suggest that flavonoid-rich food could help prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer. Cocoa is the richest source of flavonoids, but current processing reduces the content substantially. The Kuna living in the San Blas drink a flavanol-rich cocoa as their main beverage, contributing more than 900 mg/day and thus probably have the most flavonoid-rich diet of any population. We used diagnosis on death certificates to compare cause-specific death rates from year 2000 to 2004 in mainland and the San Blas islands where only Kuna live. Our hypothesis was that if the high flavanoid intake and consequent nitric oxide system activation were important the result would be a reduction in the frequency of ischemic heart disease, stroke, diabetes mellitus, and cancer – all nitric oxide sensitive processes. There were 77,375 deaths in mainland Panama and 558 deaths in the San Blas. In mainland Panama, as anticipated, cardiovascular disease was the leading cause of death (83.4 ± 0.70 age adjusted deaths/100,000) and cancer was second (68.4 ± 1.6). In contrast, the rate of CVD and cancer among island-dwelling Kuna was much lower (9.2 ± 3.1) and (4.4 ± 4.4) respectively. Similarly deaths due to diabetes mellitus were much more common in the mainland (24.1 ± 0.74) than in the San Blas (6.6 ± 1.94). This comparatively lower risk among Kuna in the San Blas from the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in much of the world, possibly reflects a very high flavanol intake and sustained nitric oxide synthesis activation. However, there are many risk factors and an observational study cannot provide definitive evidence.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/2b/PMC1796954.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4848414", "abstract": " Background. Software guided optic nerve assessment can assist in process automation and reduce interobserver disagreement. We tested depth analysis software (DAS) in assessing optic nerve cup-to-disc ratio (VCD) from stereoscopic optic nerve images (SONI) of normal eyes. Methods. In a prospective study, simultaneous SONI from normal subjects were collected during telemedicine screenings using a Kowa 3Wx nonmydriatic simultaneous stereoscopic retinal camera (Tokyo, Japan). VCD was determined from SONI pairs and proprietary pixel DAS (Kowa Inc., Tokyo, Japan) after disc and cup contour line placement. A nonstereoscopic VCD was determined using the right channel of a stereo pair. Mean, standard deviation, t-test, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICCC) were calculated. Results. 32 patients had mean age of 40 ± 14 years. Mean VCD on SONI was 0.36 ± 0.09, with DAS 0.38 ± 0.08, and with nonstereoscopic 0.29 ± 0.12. The difference between stereoscopic and DAS assisted was not significant (p = 0.45). ICCC showed agreement between stereoscopic and software VCD assessment. Mean VCD difference was significant between nonstereoscopic and stereoscopic (p < 0.05) and nonstereoscopic and DAS (p < 0.005) recordings. Conclusions. DAS successfully assessed SONI and showed a high degree of correlation to physician-determined stereoscopic VCD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/21/PMC4848414.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4878976", "abstract": "Purpose To investigate the properties of angiogenin (ANG) as a potential tool for the diagnosis and grading of dry eye syndrome (DES) by analyzing tear protein profiles. Methods Tear samples were collected with capillary tubes from 52 DES patients and 29 normal individuals as controls. Tear protein profiles were analyzed with an immunodot blot assay as a screening test. To confirm that the tear ANG levels were in inverse proportion to the disease severity grade, the ANG and lactoferrin (LF) tear contents of normal controls and DES patients were compared in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results In the immunodot blot assay, the ANG area was lower in patients with grades 3 and 4 DES than in normal controls. The areas of basic fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor β2, and interleukin 10 were significantly greater than those of normal controls only in grade 4 DES patients, but these proteins were not linearly correlated with dry eye severity. Upon enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis, the mean concentrations of ANG and LF decreased significantly as dry eye severity increased, except between grades 1 and 2. In addition, the ratios of ANG and LF to total tear proteins were correlated significantly with DES severity. Conclusions ANG level was significantly lower in DES patients than in normal controls, and was significantly correlated with the worsening severity of DES, except between grades 1 and 2, as was LF. Therefore, ANG may be a useful measure of DES severity through proteomic analysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/60/kjo-30-163.PMC4878976.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4017734", "abstract": " Background. The exact nature of learning curve of totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernia and the number required to master this technique remain controversial.  Patients and Methods. We present a retrospective review of a single surgeon experience on patients who underwent totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair.  Results. There were 42 hernias (22 left- and 20 right-sided) in 39 patients with a mean age of 48.8 ± 15.1 years. Indirect, direct, and combined hernias were present in 18, 12, and 12 cases, respectively. The mean operative time was 55.1 ± 22.8 minutes. Peritoneal injury occurred in 9 cases (21.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/3a/PMC4017734.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4285028", "abstract": "Abdominal obesity is associated closely with insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Waist circumference (WC) is a useful surrogate marker commonly used for abdominal adiposity. The determination of WC cutoff levels is important in the prevention and treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and related cardiovascular diseases. Recent epidemiological evidence suggested that appropriate optimal cutoffs for Koreans ranged over 80 to 89.8 cm in males and 76.1 to 86.5 cm in females. We analyzed the data from two large cohorts using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis with the incidences of diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cerebrovascular disease, myocardial infarct, angina, coronary artery disease, and multiple metabolic risk factors as outcome variables. Optimal WC cutoff points for Koreans were 85 cm in males and 80 cm in females. However, considering the prevalence of abdominal obesity and the health costs for its prevention and management, 90 cm in males and 85 cm in females are probably more appropriate thresholds for abdominal obesity. These values may be modified once better research is performed through prospective studies using representative populations, common health outcomes, and proper analytical approaches.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/0e/enm-29-418.PMC4285028.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4938264", "abstract": "Editor’s Note: Compared to the money dedicated to cancer and cardiology, funding for neuroscience research has lagged behind for decades. But things are starting to change. From the White House’s Brain Initiative to the Ice Bucket Challenge for ALS to some recent sizeable gifts to universities, money for brain research appears to be on the rise. But, as our author explains, research and development funding from private and corporate lenders for cognitive neuroscience—an area that he has spent years tracking—is also vital to the quality of life for millions of people.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7c/6d/PMC4938264.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2707582", "abstract": "Introduction SINTEF Health Services Research is part of the SINTEF Foundation. Research areas are evaluation of health and welfare services. The health and welfare authorities are the main commissioners of our research. Policy practice SINTEF is the main supplier of research on health and social service reports to the authorities. The institute has competence on hospital and outpatient services to somatic and psychiatric patients (acute treatment, rehabilitation and joint efforts from different agencies). The same principles apply to delivery of services, irrespective of whether it is disability or old age: hospitals provide specialist competence in diagnostics and treatment. Rehabilitation is provided both by specialists and community services. Long-term care is provided in the person’s home as long as possible, both for people with disabilities and people of old age. Conclusion Independent research and evaluation are used by policy makers to continually evaluate and improve services. Discussion Health and welfare policies in Norway are generally the same for both elderly persons and persons with disabilities, provided by hospitals and community services.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/96/PMC2707582.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4948135", "abstract": "Background: India is home to the highest number of adolescents in the world. Adolescents in India suffer from lack of knowledge and empowerment to make informed sexual and reproductive health decisions. This paper analyses the prevalence of reproductive tract infections and sexually transmitted infections (RTI/STI) and treatment seeking behavior among married adolescent women in India aged 15-19 years. Methods: Data from the District Level Household Survey (DLHS, 2007-08) of India were used. The prevalence of RTIs symptoms and treatment seeking behavior among women by different socio-demographic characteristics was analyzed. Factor analysis was utilized to create an index using information about 11 symptoms of RTI/STI collected in the survey. Linear and binary logistic regressions were used to know the association between infections and treatment seeking behavior with socio-demographic factors. Results: About 15 percent of adolescent women reported having any symptoms of RTI/STI. The main symptoms reported were low backache, pain in the lower abdomen, pain during intercourse and itching or irritation around the vulvar region. Factor analysis showed the concentration of diseases in three clusters - infection in around the vulva, other reproductive infection and abnormal discharge; and intercourse related problems. Major predictors of both symptoms of reproductive infections and treatment seeking behavior from multivariate analysis are age, education, wealth, region and awareness about RTI/STI. Conclusions and Public Health Implications: Knowledge and treatment seeking behavior is poor among adolescent women in India. There is need for programmatic and policy emphasis on increasing knowledge and awareness through family life education including in educational curriculum at school level.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4d/95/IJMA-2-103.PMC4948135.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2717398", "abstract": "Psoriasis is recognized as a complex disease for which multiple genetic and non-genetic factors influence susceptibility. The major susceptibility locus resides in the MHC class I region and, until relatively recently, evidence for non-MHC loci was inconsistent. Like many common diseases, knowledge of the genetic basis of this condition has been advanced dramatically in recent times with the advent of genome-wide association studies using single nucleotide polymorphisms. Here, we give an overview of current knowledge of genetic risk factors for psoriasis and consider emerging studies that may further add to our understanding of the genetic basis of the disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/2b/PMC2717398.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5435666", "abstract": "There are few reports on the surgical treatment of secondary malignancy arising from an osteochondroma on the lateral side of the proximal tibia. From March 2008 to December 2011, 3 patients were treated for a secondary chondrosarcoma from an osteochondroma of the proximal tibia involving the fibula. The operative procedure can be summed up as follows: (1) resection of the tumor including the fibula; (2) preservation of the peroneal nerve and the fibular head; and (3) arthrodesis of the proximal tibiofibular joint. Serial radiological studies showed successful fusion in the proximal tibiofibular joint in all patients. The Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional scores were excellent in all 3 patients. No patients showed instability of the ipsilateral knee joint in any direction. All 3 patients could return to sports activities. Until the last follow-up, there was no evidence of disease recurrence. We suggest that the operative procedure described in this article would provide satisfactory oncological and functional outcomes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/bd/cios-9-249.PMC5435666.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2745136", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION It is important to know the reasons for resubmitting research projects to the Research Ethics Committee in order to help researchers to prepare their research projects, informed consent forms and needed research documentation. OBJECTIVES To verify the reasons for resubmitting projects that were previously rejected by the Ethics Committee. METHOD This is a cross-sectional study that evaluated research projects involving human beings. Research projects were submitted in 2007 to the Research Ethics Committee of the Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. RESULTS One thousand two hundred and fifty six research projects were submitted to the ethics committee and the average time for evaluating the research projects and related documents until a final decision was reached was 49.95 days. From the total, 399 projects were reviewed in 2 or more meetings until a final decision was reached. Of these, 392 research projects were included in the study; 35 projects were subsequently excluded for involving animals. Among the research projects included, 42.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cb/67/PMC2745136.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4919495", "abstract": "PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate the demographic patterns of maxillofacial prosthetic treatment to identify the characteristics and geographic distribution of patients with maxillofacial prosthetics in the capital region of Korea. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective analytical multicenter study was performed by chart reviews. This study included patients who visited the department of prosthodontics at four university dental hospitals for maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation. Patients with facial and congenital defects or with insufficient medical data were excluded. The patients were classified into three categories based on the location of the defect. Patients' sex, age, and residential area were analyzed. Pearson's chi-square test with a significance level of 0.05 was used to analyze the variables. RESULTS Among 540 patients with maxillofacial prosthetics, there were 284 (52.59", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/00/09/jap-8-229.PMC4919495.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3296446", "abstract": " Introduction. Experiments on genetically modified animals have discovered a complex cross-regulation between adipokines (leptin, adiponectin) and osteocalcin. The relationships between these molecules in human osteoporosis are still unclear. We evaluated the hypothesis of a bidirectional link between adipokines and osteocalcin. Materials and Methods. In a cross-sectional study of 294 older patients with osteoporotic hip fracture, we estimated serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, resistin, osteocalcin, parameters of mineral metabolism, and renal function. Results. After adjustment for multiple potential confounders, serum osteocalcin concentration was inversely associated with resistin and positively with leptin, leptin/resistin ratio, and adiponectin/resistin ratio. In multivariate regression models, osteocalcin was an independent predictor of serum leptin, resistin, leptin/resistin, and adiponectin/resistin ratios. Conclusions. Our data support the bidirectional regulation between osteocalcin and adipokines, but contrary to the genetically modified animal models, in older subjects with osteoporotic hip fracture, serum osteocalcin is positively associated with leptin and inversely with resistin.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/3d/PMC3296446.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3556843", "abstract": "Macropathogens, such as multicellular helminths, are considered masters of immunoregulation due to their ability to escape host defense and establish chronic infections. Molecular crosstalk between the host and the parasite starts immediately after their encounter, which influences the course and development of both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune response. Helminths can modulate dendritic cells (DCs) function and induce immunosuppression which is mediated by a regulatory network that includes regulatory T (Treg) cells, regulatory B (Breg) cells, and alternatively activated macrophages (AAMs). In this way, helminths suppress and control both parasite-specific and unrelated immunopathology in the host such as Th1-mediated autoimmune and Th2-mediated allergic diseases. However, certain helminths favour the development or exacerbation of allergic responses. In this paper, the cell types that play an essential role in helminth-induced immunoregulation, the consequences for inflammatory diseases, and the contrasting effects of Toxocara and Trichinella infection on allergic manifestations are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/35/55/PMC3556843.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2854328", "abstract": "Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine color changes and surface roughness of composites when they were subjected to in-office bleaching. Methods: 12 discs 15 mm in diameter and 2 mm thick were prepared from two shades (A2     A4) of two composites, Durafil VS (DF) and TPH3 (TPH). Specimens were polished and stored in distilled water for 24 hours at 37°C before being subjected to bleaching, staining, and re-bleaching. Each of the groups of specimens (DF-A2, DF-A4, TPH-A2 and TPH-A4) were subdivided into three subgroups (n=4) and bleached with Beyond, LumaWhite-Plus, and Opalescence-Boost. Specimens were then stained by immersing them in a coffee solution for 48 hours at 37°C, and then they were re-bleached. Colorimetric measurements were performed at baseline, after bleaching, after staining, and after re-bleaching. Surface roughness was determined with environmental SEM before and after bleaching. Data were statistically-analyzed. Results: None of the bleaching systems notably changed the color of composites (delta-E<2). Coffee staining affected DF specimens more than TPH. Stained specimens showed variable responses to whitening with no significant color change observed with TPH (delta-E<2) and significant changes observed with DF. Surface roughness significantly changed with bleaching, but the degree varied according to composite shade and bleaching agent. Conclusions: Three in-office bleaching agents had no significant color changes on two composites. DF showed more color change than TPH when immersed in coffee. Stained composites showed different degrees of whitening, with DF showing more response. Bleaching may adversely affect the surface texture of composites. Dentists should take into consideration that composite restorations may not respond to bleaching in the same way that natural teeth do.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/0f/PMC2854328.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4898859", "abstract": " Background: The consumption of low quality foods is common in low socioeconomic areas; and according to epidemiological studies, the density of nutrients often proves the quality of diet. This study aimed to compare the density of macronutrients and micronutrients in various parts of Tehran.   Methods: This was a cross-sectional study performed from September to December 2007 in all the 22 districts of the municipality of Tehran including 1,807 households. Experienced interviewers completed a 24-hour recall questionnaire. To estimate the nutrient densities, nutrient intake (grams or milligrams) was calculated per 1,000 kcal energy intake. To calculate the density of energy intake, energy intake (kcal) was divided by 100 g of foodstuff. The 22 districts of Tehran were divided into five zones of north, center, east, west and south. ANOVA and Tukey tests were used.   Results: The highest density of protein and fat intake was observed in the north of Tehran, while carbohydrate density was highest in the west, east and south zones, and energy density was highest in the south zone (p<0.05). Calcium and vitamin C had the highest density in the north of Tehran, and vitamin A and riboflavin had the highest density in the north and center of Tehran, and the lowest level in the south of Tehran (p<0.05).   Conclusion: Despite the high density of energy in the south of Tehran, a deficiency of micronutrient intake was obvious, reflecting the importance of the impact of socioeconomic factors. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/52/mjiri-30-340.PMC4898859.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2974970", "abstract": "We report an extremely rare case of small intestinal cancer metastasized to the urinary bladder, presenting a urologic symptom. A 41-year-old man first presented with nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Based on the clinical diagnosis of jejunal cancer, he underwent a partial resection of the jejunum with lymph node dissection. The pathological diagnosis was moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma of the jejunum, pT4N0. Seventeen months after surgery, he presented with a gross hematuria. Computed tomographic scan showed wall thickening of the posterior wall of the urinary bladder. No tumor was found in other organs or lymph nodes. Based on histological and immunohistochemical analysis, the diagnosis of urinary bladder metastasis from jejunal adenocarcinoma was made. This is the first report of urinary bladder metastasis from small intestinal cancer. Although very rare, the possibility of metastatic small intestinal cancer should be considered in differential diagnosis in patients with adenocarcinoma involving the urinary bladder.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ef/05/cro0003-0334.PMC2974970.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2647165", "abstract": "Our objective is to describe the characteristic CT findings of gastrointestinal (GI) tract perforations at various levels of the gastrointestinal system. It is beneficial to localize the perforation site as well as to diagnose the presence of bowel perforation for planning the correct surgery. CT has been established as the most valuable imaging technique for identifying the presence, site and cause of the GI tract perforation. The amount and location of extraluminal free air usually differ among various perforation sites. Further, CT findings such as discontinuity of the bowel wall and concentrated free air bubbles in close proximity to the bowel wall can help predict the perforation site. Multidetector CT with the multiplanar reformation images has improved the accuracy of CT for predicting the perforation sites.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d8/8e/kjr-10-63.PMC2647165.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3796693", "abstract": "Objective Heavily calcified left-main coronary diseases (LMCA) remain a formidable challenge for percutaneous interventions (PCI). This study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of using rotational atherectomy (RA) in treating such lesions in actual practice. Methods From February 2004 to March 2012, all consecutive patients who received RA for heavily-calcified LMCA lesions in our cath lab were enrolled. The relevant clinical and angiographic characteristics at the time of index PCI, as well as the clinical follow-up outcomes, were retrieved and analyzed. Results A total of 34 consecutive patients were recruited with a mean age 77.2 ± 10.2 years. There were 82.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/fd/jgc-10-03-217.PMC3796693.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3413952", "abstract": "Uncertainty around the value of and appropriate regulatory models for direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing underscores the importance of tracking public awareness of these services. We analyzed nationally representative, cross-sectional data from the Health Information National Trends Survey in 2008 (n = 7, 674) and 2011 (n = 3, 959) to assess population-level changes in awareness of DTC genetic testing in the U.S. and to explore sociodemographic, health care, Internet use, and population density correlates. Overall, awareness increased significantly from 29", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/92/16/PMC3413952.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4852367", "abstract": " Objective. The introduction of protease inhibitors telaprevir and boceprevir in 2011 had extended the antiviral treatment options especially in genotype 1 infected hepatitis C relapsers and nonresponders to interferon/ribavirin therapy. The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term treatment efficiency of telaprevir-based triple therapy for patients with hepatitis C reinfection after orthotopic liver transplantation. Patients and Methods. We included 12 patients with histologically confirmed graft fibrosis due to hepatitis C reinfection. The treatment duration was scheduled as 12 weeks of telaprevir-based antiviral triple therapy followed by 36 weeks of dual therapy with pegylated interferon/ribavirin. The patients were followed up for two years after the end of triple therapy. Results. Of the 12 patients, 6 (50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d3/e3/PMC4852367.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3744385", "abstract": "In this study, we assess the accuracy of fertility estimates that stem from the retrospective information that can be derived from an existing cross-sectional population. Swedish population registers contain information on the childbearing of all people ever registered as living in Sweden, and thus allow us to avoid problems of selectivity by the virtue of survival or nonemigration when estimating the fertility measures for previous calendar periods. We calculate two types of fertility rates for each year in 1961–1999: (i) rates that are based on the population that was living in Sweden at the end of 1999, and (ii) rates that also include information on people who had died or emigrated before the turn of the twentieth century. We find that the omission of information on individuals who had emigrated or died, as the situation would be in any demographic survey, most often have negligible effects on fertility measures. However, first-birth rates of immigrants gradually become more biased as we move back in time from 1999 so that they increasingly tend to over-estimate the true fertility of that population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/d5/PMC3744385.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3323237", "abstract": "This study found infrequent transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus to healthcare workers involved in the care of the first five case-patients in Taiwan, despite a substantial number of unprotected exposures. Nonetheless, given that SARS has been highly transmissible on some occasions, we still recommend strict precautions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/92/03/PMC3323237.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5124677", "abstract": " Background. Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a serious complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We designed a functional assay for assessment of individual risk for acute GVHD. Study Design and Methods. Blood samples were collected from patients and donors before HSCT. Two groups of seven patients each were selected, one in which individuals developed acute GVHD grades II–IV and one in which none showed any clinical signs of GVHD. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from donors were incubated in mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLCs) with recipient PBMCs. The cells were characterized by flow cytometry before and after MLC. Results. Samples from donors in the GVHD group contained significantly lower frequencies of naïve γδ T-cells and T-cells expressing NK-cell markers CD56 and CD94. Donor samples in this group also exhibited lower frequencies of naïve CD95+ T-cells compared to controls. After MLC, there were dissimilarities in the CD4/CD8 T-cell ratio and frequency of CD69+ T-cells between the two patient groups, with the non-GVHD group showing higher frequencies of CD8+ and CD69+ T-cells. Conclusion. We conclude that a thorough flow cytometric analysis of donor cells for phenotype and allogeneic reactivity may be of value when assessing pretransplant risk for severe acute GVHD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/01/PMC5124677.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2956885", "abstract": "Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a common cause of mortality worldwide. Liver transplantation has emerged as the optimal treatment for cirrhotic patients with HCC; however, the shortage of donor organs leaves waitlisted patients at risk for disease progression beyond transplant criteria. Prevention of waitlist dropout has fueled investigation into a wide array of locoregional therapies for the management of HCC in candidates awaiting liver transplantation. We present a patient with HCC who underwent treatment with sorafenib, which resulted in a remarkable reduction in tumor burden to allow for liver transplant listing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/6a/12029_2010_Article_9163.PMC2956885.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4327301", "abstract": "Introduction: The Apert syndrome is a rare disorder of autosomal dominant inheritance caused by mutations in the FGFR2 gene at locus 10q26; patients with this syndrome present severe syndactyly, exophthalmia, ocular hypertelorism and hypoplastic midface with Class III malocclusion, besides systemic alterations. Most investigations available on the Apert syndrome address the genetic aspect or surgical management, with little emphasis on the oral aspects. Objective: to investigate the oral findings, including dental anomalies, ectopic eruption of the maxillary permanent first molars and soft tissue alterations, in subjects with Apert syndrome. Material and methods: clinical and radiographic examination of nine patients with Apert syndrome, aged 6 to 15 years, not previously submitted to orthodontic or orthognathic treatment. Results: dental anomalies were present in all patients, with one to eight anomalies per individual. The most frequent anomalies were tooth agenesis, mainly affecting maxillary canines, and enamel opacities (44.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/50/1678-7757-jaos-14-06-0465.PMC4327301.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3462384", "abstract": "The transition from student to working nurse has long been recognized as challenging. This paper presents the findings of research into the opportunities and limitations encountered by newly qualified nurses when taking on the nursing role. The study had an ethnographic design. Observation, interviews, and document analysis were used to gain insight into nurses' daily work from the perspective of recently graduated nurses. Thirteen nurses were monitored closely during their first year in a hospital setting in Norway. These new nurses generally entered the field with empathy for their patients, enthusiasm for the profession, and readiness to learn more about being a good nurse. However, their more experienced colleagues seemed to neither respect nor nurture this attitude. The new nurses experienced heavier responsibilities than expected, fragmentation of patient care, and stressful interactions with colleagues. The lack of a supportive work environment and role models increased the new nurses' experience of overwhelming responsibility in their daily work situations. The nurses learned to cope the hard way, despite the organizational culture, not because of it. Adjusting the profession's expectations of new nurses, and offering good role models and more comprehensive support programmes, would markedly ease the transition for new nurses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e9/f3/PMC3462384.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4033430", "abstract": " Aims. To evaluate the vascularization in basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) of the skin. Methods. We performed CD31 (i.e., panendothelial marker) and CD105 (i.e., proliferating endothelium marker) immunostaining on samples of 70 SCCs and 70 BCCs of the skin. We evaluated the relative blood vessel area using the Chalkley counting method in each histologic subtype of these tumours. We calculated the degree of proliferation of blood vessel endothelium dividing CD105-Chalkley score by CD31-Chalkley score. Results. We found significantly higher peritumoral and intratumoral blood vessel area in SCC when compared to BCC (both with CD31 and CD105). Chalkley counts differed significantly between groups with different BCC histologic subtypes and SCC with different grade of differentiation. Surprisingly, the degree of proliferation of blood vessel endothelium was higher in BCC when compared to SCC. Conclusions. While SCC exhibited significantly higher intratumoral and peritumoral blood vessel areas compared to BCC, the relatively low rate of proliferating endothelium in this tumour type suggests the existence of endothelial-sprouting-independent mechanisms of vascularization in SCC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9e/44/PMC4033430.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5417287", "abstract": "The aim of this retrospective single-institution observational study was to identify whether the frequency of hospitalizations for pneumonia would change before and after the initiation of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation in children with neurological conditions. Included patients were 1 to 18 years old with an underlying neurological disease and had been prescribed nocturnal noninvasive positive pressure ventilation. The authors excluded patients with a tracheostomy or those who used noninvasive positive pressure ventilation solely for obstructive sleep apnea. A total of 14 patients were included in the study, among whom there was no significant change in the mean number of pneumonias 2 years before versus after the initiation of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (mean difference = −0.714, standard deviation = 2.4, P = .312). These findings suggest that while noninvasive positive pressure ventilation may not reduce absolute pneumonia frequency, it may have the beneficial value of preventing an increase in the frequency of pneumonias over time, especially in children with progressive respiratory compromise.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/5b/10.1177_2329048X16689021.PMC5417287.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2423417", "abstract": "Compared to the conventional linkage mapping, linkage disequilibrium (LD)-mapping, using the nonrandom associations of loci in haplotypes, is a powerful high-resolution mapping tool for complex quantitative traits. The recent advances in the development of unbiased association mapping approaches for plant population with their successful applications in dissecting a number of simple to complex traits in many crop species demonstrate a flourish of the approach as a “powerful gene tagging” tool for crops in the plant genomics era of 21st century. The goal of this review is to provide nonexpert readers of crop breeding community with (1) the basic concept, merits, and simple description of existing methodologies for an association mapping with the recent improvements for plant populations, and (2) the details of some of pioneer and recent studies on association mapping in various crop species to demonstrate the feasibility, success, problems, and future perspectives of the efforts in plants. This should be helpful for interested readers of international plant research community as a guideline for the basic understanding, choosing the appropriate methods, and its application.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f4/58/PMC2423417.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3941777", "abstract": "Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are ubiquitous and well-known commensal bacteria in the human and animal microflora. LAB are extensively studied and used in a variety of industrial and food fermentations. They are widely used for humans and animals as adjuvants, probiotic formulation, and dietary supplements and in other food fermentation applications. In the present investigation, LAB were isolated from raw milk samples collected from local dairy farms of Haryana, India. Further, the isolates were screened for simultaneous production of biosurfactants and bacteriocins. Biosurfactant produced was found to be a mixture of lipid and sugar similar to glycolipids. The bacteriocin obtained was found to be heat stable (5 min at 100°C). Further, DNA of the strain was extracted and amplified by the 16S rRNA sequencing using universal primers. The isolate Lactobacillus casei MRTL3 was found to be a potent biosurfactant and bacteriocin producer. It seems to have huge potential for food industry as a biopreservative and/or food ingredient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/50/be/PMC3941777.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3371355", "abstract": "Heavy smoking can induce airway inflammation and emphysema. Macrolides can modulate inflammation and effector T-cell response in the lungs. However, there is no information on whether erythromycin can modulate regulatory T-cell (Treg) response. This study is aimed at examining the impact of erythromycin on Treg response in the lungs in a rat model of smoking-induced emphysema. Male Wistar rats were exposed to normal air or cigarette smoking daily for 12 weeks and treated by gavage with 100 mg/kg of erythromycin or saline daily beginning at the forth week for nine weeks. The lung inflammation and the numbers of inflammatory infiltrates in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were characterized. The frequency, the number of Tregs, and the levels of Foxp3 expression in the lungs and IL-8, IL-35, and TNF-α in BALF were determined by flow cytometry, RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. Treatment with erythromycin reduced smoking-induced inflammatory infiltrates, the levels of IL-8 and TNF-α in the BALF and lung damages but increased the numbers of CD4+Foxp3+ Tregs and the levels of Foxp3 transcription in the lungs, accompanied by increased levels of IL-35 in the BALF of rats. Our novel data indicated that erythromycin enhanced Treg responses, associated with the inhibition of smoking-induced inflammation in the lungs of rats.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b6/24/PMC3371355.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3372969", "abstract": "Background The objectives of this community-based study were to examine the overall and changing (1990–2007) frequency and impact on 30-day and 1-year death rates from multiple cardiovascular comorbidities in adults from a large central New England metropolitan area hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods The study population consisted of 9581 patients hospitalized with AMI at all 11 medical centers in the metropolitan area of Worcester, MA, during 10 annual periods between 1990 and 2007. The comorbidities examined included atrial fibrillation, diabetes, heart failure, hypertension, and stroke. Results Thirty-five percent of participants had a single diagnosed cardiovascular comorbidity, 25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/85/7f/PMC3372969.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4590917", "abstract": " Objective. To assess whether or not there was any change in the dental caries and rate of salivary flow of patients with Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM) and the contribution of salivary flow to caries risk in IDDM. Setting. Department of Endocrinology, MS Ramaiah Hospital, Bangalore, India. Design. A comparative cross-sectional descriptive type. Materials and Methods. The sample consisted of two groups: 140 diabetic group (mean age 14.8 yr) and 140 nondiabetic group (mean age 13.7 yr). Dental caries by dmf(t) and dmf(s) indices for primary dentition and DMF(T) and DMF(S) indices was used in permanent dentition to assess the dental caries experience. Both stimulated and unstimulated salivary flow rate were assessed after collection of saliva. Results. In diabetic group 76", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ba/0c/PMC4590917.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3964687", "abstract": "Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease (VKH) and sympathetic ophthalmia (SO) are types of T-cell mediated autoimmune granulomatous uveitis. Although the two diseases share common clinical features, they have certain differences in gender predilections. VKH classically has been reported as more prevalent in females than males, yet some studies in Japan and China have not found differences in gender prevalence. Male patients have a higher risk of chorioretinal degeneration, vitiligo, and worse prognosis. Conversely, the changing levels of estrogen/progesterone during pregnancy and the menstrual cycle as well as higher levels of TGF-β show a protective role in females. Potential causes of female predilection for VKH are associated with HLA-DR and HLA-DQ alleles. SO, a bilateral granulomatous uveitis, occurs in the context of one eye after a penetrating injury due to trauma or surgery. In contrast to the female dominance in VKH, males are more frequently affected by SO due to a higher incidence of ocular injury, especially during wartime. However, no gender predilection of SO has been reported in postsurgical cases. No clinically different manifestations are revealed between males and females in SO secondary to either ocular trauma or surgery. The potential causes of the gender difference may provide hints on future treatment and disease evaluation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/da/b8/PMC3964687.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5103533", "abstract": "Background: A systemic skeletal disease is characterized by low bone mass and micro-architectural deterioration with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. Asia has the highest increment in the elderly population; therefore, osteoporotic fracture should be a noticeable health issue. The incidence rate of hip fractures in Asia could rise to 45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/a2/IJMS-41-27.PMC5103533.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4412547", "abstract": "The addition of trace molecules into membranes can significantly alter the morphology of the co-existing liquid phases and lipid phase transition temperature. Membrane additives may affect lipid phase dynamics through preferentially partitioning to the boundary between lipid phases or preferentially mixing into one lipid phase. The characteristic differences between these mechanisms are demonstrated here in a minimalistic nearest neighbor model to provide a framework for how slight changes to membrane composition may affect lipid-phase-dependent processes, such as lipid-raft formation, immunological signaling, and molecular sorting preceding endocytosis with coexisting liquid phases. Within the low mole fractions explored here (≤3 mol", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/03/PMC4412547.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3223696", "abstract": "Huntington's disease (HD) is a complex and severe disorder characterized by the gradual and the progressive loss of neurons, predominantly in the striatum, which leads to the typical motor and cognitive impairments associated with this pathology. HD is caused by a highly polymorphic CAG trinucleotide repeat expansion in the exon-1 of the gene encoding for huntingtin protein. Since the first discovery of the huntingtin gene, investigations with a consistent number of in-vitro and in-vivo models have provided insights into the toxic events related to the expression of the mutant protein. In this review, we will summarize the progress made in characterizing the signaling pathways that contribute to neuronal degeneration in HD. We will highlight the age-dependent loss of proteostasis that is primarily responsible for the formation of aggregates observed in HD patients. The most promising molecular targets for the development of pharmacological interventions will also be discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b4/af/cddis2011112a.PMC3223696.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2893925", "abstract": "Structure and electronic properties of two unusual boron clusters obtained by fusion of borozene rings have been studied by means of first principles calculations based on the generalized-gradient approximation of the density functional theory. Moreover, a semiempirical tight-binding model has been appropriately calibrated for transport calculations on these clusters. Results show that the pure boron clusters are topologically planar and characterized by (3c–2e) bonds, which can explain, together with the aromaticity (estimated by means of NICS), the remarkable cohesive energy values obtained. Such feature makes these systems competitive with the most stable boron clusters to date. The energy gap values indicate that these clusters possess a semiconducting character, while when the larger system is considered, zero-values of the density of states are found exclusively within the HOMO–LUMO gap. Electron transport calculations within the Landauer formalism confirm these indications, showing semiconductor-like low bias differential conductance for these structures. Differences and similarities with carbon clusters are highlighted in the discussion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/39/28/PMC2893925.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5406081", "abstract": "Abstract Rationale: Crystalglobulinemia is a rare disease caused by monoclonal immunoglobulins, characterized by irreversible crystallization on refrigeration. It causes systemic symptoms including purpura, arthralgia, and vessel occlusive conditions to be exacerbated by exposure to cold. We report a patient with crystalglobulinemia associated with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) manifesting as chronic arthralgia and recurrent acute arterial occlusion. Presenting concerns: A 61-year-old man, who had been diagnosed with MGUS and who had arthralgia of unknown origin, presented with recurrent acute limb ischemia after surgical thromboembolectomy. Refrigeration of his serum formed precipitates that looked like needle-shaped crystals. These crystals did not dissolve with warming, which is not a characteristic of cryoglobulins. Skin biopsy results showed crystal-liked eosinophilic bodies in small vessels and we diagnosed crystalglobulinemia. Intervention and outcomes: Although he underwent above-knee amputation, he was treated with a bortezomib and dexamethasone-based chemotherapeutic regimen, following lenalidomide maintenance therapy. Finally, he achieved complete remission and serum crystalglobulins diminished. Lessons: Monoclonal gammopathy, previously diagnosed as MGUS, can cause systemic symptoms and thrombotic conditions by producing pathologic immunoglobulins, such as crystalglobulins. In such situations, MGUS, even when it has not progressed to multiple myeloma, can be a target of aggressive chemotherapy. Crystalglobulinemia should be considered for patients with monoclonal gammopathy manifesting as systemic and thrombotic symptoms exacerbated by cooling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/9d/medi-96-e6643.PMC5406081.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4762978", "abstract": "Background Human leech infestation is a disease of the poor who live in rural areas and use water contaminated with leeches. Like any other body orifices, vagina can also be infested by leech when females use contaminated water for bathing and/or douching. Although this condition is very rare in postmenopausal women, it causes morbidities and mortalities. Case Details A 70 year old Para X (all alive) abortion I mother, postmenopausal for the last 20 years, presented with vaginal bleeding of 3 weeks duration to Gimbie Adventist Hospital, Western Ethiopia. On examination, she had deranged vital signs and there was a dark moving worm attached to the cervical os. She was admitted with the diagnosis of hypovolumic shock and severe anemia secondary to postmenopausal vaginal bleeding. After the patient was stabilized with intravenous crystalloids, the leech was removed from the vagina. She was then transfused with two units of whole blood and discharged with good condition on the 3rd post procedure day with ferrous sulphate. Conclusion Vaginal leech infestation in postmenopausal woman can cause hypovolumic shock and severe anemia. Therefore, in order to decrease morbidities from failure or delay in making the diagnosis, health care providers should consider the possibility of vaginal leech infestation in postmenopausal woman from rural areas and those who use river water for drinking, bathing and/or douching and presented with vaginal bleeding. In addition, the importance of using clean water and improving access to safe water should be emphasized.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/8b/PMC4762978.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3836931", "abstract": "Objective Major complaints of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) are sensory components. However, motor deficit also impedes functional status of hand. Contrary to evaluation of sensory function, the objective, quantitative evaluation of median nerve motor function is not easy. The motor function of median was evaluated quantitatively using load cell and its correlation with findings of electrodiagnostic study (EDS) was evaluated. Methods Objective motor function of median nerve was evaluated by load cell and personal computer-based measurement system. All of the measurement was done in patients diagnosed as having idiopathic CTS by clinical features and EDS findings. The strength of thumb abduction and index finger flexion was measured in each hand three times, and the average value was used to calculate thumb index ratio (TIR). The correlation of TIR with clinical, EDS, and ultrasonographic findings were evaluated. Results The TIR was evaluated in 67 patients (119 hands). There were 14 males and 53 females, mean age were 57.6 years (range 28 to 81). The higher preoperative nerve conductive studies grade of the patients, the lower TIR was observed [p<0.001, analysis of variance (ANOVA)]. TIR of cases with thenar atrophy were significantly lower than those without (p<0.001, t-test). TIR were significantly lower in patients with severe median nerve swelling in ultrasonography (p=0.042, ANOVA). Conclusion Measurements of median nerve motor function using load cell is a valuable evaluation tool in CTS. It might be helpful in detecting subclinical motor dysfunction before muscle atrophy develops.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c4/8f/jkns-54-232.PMC3836931.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3418521", "abstract": "Alterations in dendritic spines have been documented in numerous neurodevelopmental disorders, including Rett Syndrome (RTT). RTT, an X chromosome-linked disorder associated with mutations in MECP2, is the leading cause of intellectual disabilities in women. Neurons in Mecp2-deficient mice show lower dendritic spine density in several brain regions. To better understand the role of MeCP2 on excitatory spine synapses, we analyzed dendritic spines of CA1 pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus of Mecp2tm1.1Jae male mutant mice by either confocal microscopy or electron microscopy (EM). At postnatal-day 7 (P7), well before the onset of RTT-like symptoms, CA1 pyramidal neurons from mutant mice showed lower dendritic spine density than those from wildtype littermates. On the other hand, at P15 or later showing characteristic RTT-like symptoms, dendritic spine density did not differ between mutant and wildtype neurons. Consistently, stereological analyses at the EM level revealed similar densities of asymmetric spine synapses in CA1 stratum radiatum of symptomatic mutant and wildtype littermates. These results raise caution regarding the use of dendritic spine density in hippocampal neurons as a phenotypic endpoint for the evaluation of therapeutic interventions in symptomatic Mecp2-deficient mice. However, they underscore the potential role of MeCP2 in the maintenance of excitatory spine synapses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/73/PMC3418521.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5203680", "abstract": "Background Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder associated with hepatitis C. Objectives This study aimed to survey the prevalence rate of depression in patients with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) before they were aware of their HCV test result. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on all blood donors with confirmed positive HCV test results who donated blood between March 21, 2012 to March 21, 2013 at Fars blood transfusion center in Iran as case group and age- and sex-matched blood donors with negative screening test results as control group. A semi-structured interview based on DSM IV-TR depressive disorder criteria and Beck depression inventory (BDI) was conducted. BDI contained 21 items, each scored from 0 to 3 and total score of 0 to 63 for the whole scale computed by summing up all the items. A cut-off score of ≥ 19 indicated clinically significant depressive symptoms. The prevalence rate and risk factors of depression were determined. Results The most frequent risk factors for HCV infection were intravenous drug abuse (59.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/94/hepatmon-16-11-31080.PMC5203680.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5342976", "abstract": "Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is characterized by mucocutaneous tenderness and typical hemorrhagic erosions, erythema and epidermal detachment presenting as blisters and areas of denuded skin. SJS is often observed after drug use as well as after bacterial or viral infections. Several drugs are at high risk of inducing SJS, but there are no cases in the English literature regarding anabolic steroid use triggering SJS. In our paper, we describe a case in which use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) was associated with SJS. The patient participated in competitive body-building and regularly took variable doses of AAS. Initial symptoms (headache, weakness, pharyngodynia, and fever) were ignored. After a week he presented to the Emergency Department with a burning sensation on the mouth, lips, and eyes. Painful, erythematous, maculopapular, and vesicular lesions appeared all over the body, including on the genitals. During hospitalization, he also developed a cardiac complication. The patient had not taken any drugs except AAS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/4d/jkaoms-43-57.PMC5342976.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3104166", "abstract": "The present study aimed at analyzing the genetic variability of indigenous goat breeds (Capra hircus) using the MHC-associated microsatellite markers BF1, BM1818, BM1258, DYMS1, and SMHCC1. The following breeds were included: Chinese Xuhuai, Indian Changthangi and Pashmina, Kenyan Small East African (SEA) and Galla, and Albanian Vendi. To examine genetic variability, the levels of heterozigosity, degrees of inbreeding, and genetic differences among the breeds were analyzed. The mean number of alleles ranged from nine in the Galla to 14.5 in the Vendi breed. The mean observed heterozygosity and mean expected heterozygosity varied from 0.483 in the Vendi to 0.577 in the Galla breed, and from 0.767 in the SEA to 0.879 in the Vendi breed, respectively. Significant loss of heterozygosity (p < 0.01) indicated that these loci were not in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The mean FIS values ranged from 0.3299 in the SEA to 0.4605 in the Vendi breed with a mean value of 0.3623 in all breeds (p < 0.001). Analysis of molecular variance indicated that 7.14", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/16/a9/PMC3104166.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4234335", "abstract": "Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of tribochemical silica coating and silane surface conditioning on the bond strength of rebonded metal and ceramic brackets. Material and Methods Twenty debonded metal and 20 debonded ceramic brackets were randomly assigned to receive one of the following surface treatments (n=10 for each group): (1) sandblasting (control); (2) tribochemical silica coating combined with silane. Brackets were rebonded to the enamel surface on the labial and lingual sides of premolars with a light-polymerized resin composite. All specimens were stored in distilled water for 1 week and then thermocycled (5,000 cycles) between 5-55°C. Shear bond strength values were measured using a universal testing machine. Student's t-test was used to compare the data (α=0.05). Failure mode was assessed using a stereomicroscope, and the treated and non-treated bracket surfaces were observed by scanning electron microscopy. Results Rebonded ceramic brackets treated with silica coating followed by silanization had significantly greater bond strength values (17.7±4.4 MPa) than the sandblasting group (2.4±0.8 MPa, P<0.001). No significant difference was observed between the rebonded metal brackets treated with silica coating with silanization (15±3.9 MPa) and the sandblasted brackets (13.6±3.9 MPa). Treated rebonded ceramic specimens primarily exhibited cohesive failure in resin and adhesive failure at the enamel-adhesive interface. Conclusions In comparison to sandblasting, silica coating with aluminum trioxide particles followed by silanization resulted in higher bond strengths of rebonded ceramic brackets.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cb/77/jaos-19-03-0233.PMC4234335.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4632564", "abstract": "Background: Breast cancer is one of the most encountered cancers in women. Detection and classification of the cancer into malignant or benign is one of the challenging fields of the pathology. Objectives: Our aim was to classify the mammogram data into normal and abnormal by ensemble classification method. Patients and Methods: In this method, we first extract texture features from cancerous and normal breasts, using the Gray-Level Co-occurrence Matrices (GLCM) method. To obtain better results, we select a region of breast with high probability of cancer occurrence before feature extraction. After features extraction, we use the maximum difference method to select the features that have predominant difference between normal and abnormal data sets. Six selected features served as the classifying tool for classification purpose by the proposed ensemble supervised algorithm. For classification, the data were first classified by three supervised classifiers, and then by simple voting policy, we finalized the classification process. Results: After classification with the ensemble supervised algorithm, the performance of the proposed method was evaluated by perfect test method, which gave the sensitivity and specificity of 96.66", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e4/2e/iranjradiol-12-03-11656.PMC4632564.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4193093", "abstract": "In this article, data are presented on trends in the use of and program payments for inpatient short-stay hospital services to Medicare beneficiaries. The data on the services used by aged and disabled Medicare beneficiaries are presented for the years 1972 through 1988. The discussion is focused on trends in utilization and program payments resulting from the implementation of the Medicare prospective payment system. The State data for 1988 consist of utilization and program payment statistics by the residence of the beneficiaries in urban and rural areas. This is the first time that inpatient hospital data have been presented in this manner.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/75/PMC4193093.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3874371", "abstract": "Background: During off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB), the heart is subjected to ischemic and reperfusion injury. Preconditioning is a mechanism that permits the heart to tolerate myocardial ischemia. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of Adenosine preconditioning with ischemic preconditioning on the global ejection fraction (EF) in patients undergoing OPCAB. Methods: In this single-blind, randomized controlled trial, sixty patients undergoing OPCAB were allocated into three equally-numbered groups through simple randomization: Adenosine group, ischemic group, and control group. The patients in the Adenosine group received an infusion of Adenosine. In the ischemic group, ischemic preconditioning was induced by the temporary occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery twice for a 2-minute period, followed by 3-minute reperfusion before bypass grafting of the first coronary vessel. The control group received an intravenous infusion of 0.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3a/f3/jthc-8-127.PMC3874371.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3075177", "abstract": "A 69-year-old cholecystectomized female with known total situs viscerum inversus presented recurrent colicky pain in the left upper abdominal quadrant and jaundice. Laboratory parameters showed increased neutrophils and coniugated bilirubin of 5.53 mg/dl. US and MRCP confirmed total situs viscerum inversus and a dilatation of the intra- and extrahepatic ducts with a peripapillary 13 mm stone. ERCP, sphincterotomy and successful common bile duct stone extraction were performed in the conventional way. ERCP was carried out successfully despite situs inversus maintaining the patient in the prone position with the endoscopist on the right side of the table. Some authors have reported similar cases in whom ERCP was performed in other positions, while this report shows that an experienced endoscopist can achieve the same results in the conventional way as it is possible when anatomical changes, Billroth II or Roux-en-Y, or different positions of the patient, supine or on the left side, are present.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/b4/crg0002-0116.PMC3075177.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4791665", "abstract": "Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common and chronic condition that impacts patients' daily activities and quality of life. Pharmaco-therapy for OAB is a mainstay of treatment. Antimuscarinics and β3-adrenoceptor agonists are the two major classes of oral pharmacotherapy and have similar efficacy for treating the symptoms of OAB. Owing to the chronic nature of OAB, long-term use of medication is essential for OAB symptom control and positive health outcomes. However, many patients elect to stop their medications during the treatment period. Unmet expectations of treatment and side effects seem to be the major factors for discontinuing OAB pharmacotherapy. Furthermore, the short- and long-term persistence and compliance with medication management are markedly worse in OAB than in other chronic medical conditions. Improvement in persistence and compliance with OAB pharmacotherapy is a hot topic in OAB treatment and should be an important goal in the treatment of OAB. Effective strategies should be identified to improve persistence and compliance. In this review, we outline what is known about persistence and compliance and the factors affecting persistence with pharmacotherapy in patients with OAB.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/55/icu-57-84.PMC4791665.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4447048", "abstract": "Compared with normal cells, cancer cells show alterations in many cellular processes, including energy metabolism. Studies on cancer metabolism started with Otto Warburg's observation at the beginning of the last century. According to Warburg, cancer cells rely on glycolysis more than mitochondrial respiration for energy production. Considering that glycolysis yields much less energy compared with mitochondrial respiration, Warburg hypothesized that mitochondria must be dysfunctional and this is the initiating factor for cancer formation. However, this hypothesis did not convince every scientist in the field. Some believed the opposite: the reduction in mitochondrial activity is a result of increased glycolysis. This discrepancy of opinions is ongoing. In this review, we will discuss the alterations in glycolysis, pyruvate metabolism, and the Krebs cycle in cancer cells and focus on cause and consequence.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/84/b1/biolrep-07-41.PMC4447048.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5239647", "abstract": "Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the presence of antimicrobial resistance / susceptibility strains of Escherichia coli in inpatients and outpatients. Materials and methods: It is a retrospective study carried out at the Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Virology Faculty of Medicine, University of Sarajevo. In cooperation with the Microbiological laboratory of the Cantonal Hospital Zenica and the Microbiological laboratory of the General Hospital Tesanj, 3863 urine samples were processed in the period from March 1st to March 31st 2016. Results: Our study showed that E. coli had the highest antimicrobial resistance to trimethoprim / sulfamethoxazole (38.61", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cb/1a/MSM-28-416.PMC5239647.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4322659", "abstract": "Host genetic background is known as an important factor in patients' susceptibility to infectious diseases such as viral hepatitis. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of genetic polymorphisms of interleukin-16 (IL-16) cytokine on susceptibility of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infected patients to develop chronic HBV infection. Genotyping was conducted using PCR followed by enzymatic digestion and RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphism) analysis. We genotyped three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Il-16 gene (rs11556218 T>G, rs4778889 T>C, and rs4072111 C>T) to test for relationship between variation at these loci and patients' susceptibility to chronic HBV infection. Allele frequency of Il-16 gene rs4072111 and rs11556218 was significantly different between chronic HBV patients and healthy blood donors. Genotype frequency of rs4778889 polymorphism of Il-16 gene was significantly different when chronic HBV patients and HBV clearance subjects were compared. Our results showed that Il-16 gene polymorphisms are considerable host genetic factors when we chase biomarkers for prognosis of HBV infected patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/06/e9/PMC4322659.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2374579", "abstract": "Continuous control of tracheal tube cuff inflation using a pneumatic device resulted in severe tracheal wall damage in ventilated piglets. This damage was similar in piglets managed with manual control of cuff inflation. The periodic hyperinflation of the tube cuff used in both groups of this study may explain these results. This manoeuvre should be avoided in clinical practice.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/6e/PMC2374579.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2800177", "abstract": "Purpose To identify MRI characteristics that may predict the functional effect of selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) in children with bilateral spastic paresis. Methods We performed SDR in a group of 36 patients. The gross motor functioning measure-66 (GMFM-66) was applied before and after SDR. Available cerebral MRIs were retrospectively classified into three diagnostic groups: periventricular leucomalacia (PVL; n = 10), hydrocephalus (n = 2), and normal (n = 6). In patients with PVL, we scored the severity of the MR abnormalities. We compared the changes in the GMFM-66 after SDR in the diagnostic groups. In patients with PVL, we correlated the severity of the MR abnormalities with the changes in the GMFM-66. Results The mean follow-up period was 5 years and 4 months (range, 1 year and 1 month to 9 years). The best improvement in gross motor function was observed in patients with normal MRI, and the slightest improvement was observed in patients with hydrocephalus. The severity of the PVL did correlate with the GMFM-66 score before SDR but not with the functional effect of SDR. Conclusion We conclude that with respect to gross motor skills, the improvements after SDR are good in patients with no MRI abnormalities. In the patients with hydrocephalus, the improvements after SDR were insignificant. In patients with PVL, the improvements were intermediate and did not correlate with the degree of PVL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/b2/381_2009_Article_999.PMC2800177.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2896644", "abstract": "National Longitudinal data of thoracolumbar fracture incidence, trends or mortality rates are lacking. The correlation between admissions and operations of thoracolumbar vertebral fractures has not been investigated. The aim of our nationwide population-based epidemiological study was to analyse the incidence, admissions, operations, and case fatality rate among patients with thoracolumbar vertebral fractures admitted to hospital in Sweden. The Swedish Hospital Discharge Register (SHDR) and the Cause of Death Register (CDR) were linked to determine the incidence of surgical interventions, trends, characteristics of the patients, and case fatality rate for thoracolumbar vertebral fractures based on comprehensive national data. The annual incidence of thoracolumbar fractures was on average 30 per 100,000 inhabitants and did not change considerably during the study period. Among patients younger than 60 years of age the annual incidence was 13 per 100,000 and was twice as high in men compared to women. The proportion operated on was 15", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/ae/10654_2010_Article_9461.PMC2896644.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3374458", "abstract": "Hantaviruses are rodentborne, emerging viruses that cause life-threatening human diseases in Eurasia and the Americas. We detected hantavirus genome sequences in an African wood mouse (Hylomyscus simus) captured in Sangassou, Guinea. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses of the genetic material demonstrate a novel hantavirus species, which we propose to name \"Sangassou virus.\"", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/01/PMC3374458.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4202211", "abstract": "Margin analysis in breast surgery is an important predictor of local recurrence and can have vital impact on the postoperative treatment planning. Objective. The aim was to assess the mean reduction in the closest tumor-free surgical margin in millimeters of breast cancer specimens following formalin fixation. Materials and Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional study at the Aga Khan University Hospital from March 30, 2010 to January 20, 2011. One hundred consecutive breast tumour surgical specimens which had macroscopically visible tumour were included. The cancer type included both in situ and invasive cancers. Excluded were the patients who had previous surgery or systemic/radiation therapy. The closest tumor-free margin was recorded and compared with the margin after formalin fixation. P value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results. The mean age of our 100 patients was 53 years with the majority of the patients having undergone mastectomy for predominantly invasive ductal carcinoma. Following formalin fixation, the mean reduction of the closest tumor-free margin was noted as 2.14 mm which was found statistically significant. Conclusion. Considerable shrinkage of tumor-free surgical margins of breast cancer specimen was noted after formalin fixation. This inference can have implications on the postoperative management plan.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/34/PMC4202211.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2859685", "abstract": "Here, we present the algorithm and validation for OMEGA, a systematic, knowledge-based conformer generator. The algorithm consists of three phases: assembly of an initial 3D structure from a library of fragments; exhaustive enumeration of all rotatable torsions using values drawn from a knowledge-based list of angles, thereby generating a large set of conformations; and sampling of this set by geometric and energy criteria. Validation of conformer generators like OMEGA has often been undertaken by comparing computed conformer sets to experimental molecular conformations from crystallography, usually from the Protein Databank (PDB). Such an approach is fraught with difficulty due to the systematic problems with small molecule structures in the PDB. Methods are presented to identify a diverse set of small molecule structures from cocomplexes in the PDB that has maximal reliability. A challenging set of 197 high quality, carefully selected ligand structures from well-solved models was obtained using these methods. This set will provide a sound basis for comparison and validation of conformer generators in the future. Validation results from this set are compared to the results using structures of a set of druglike molecules extracted from the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD). OMEGA is found to perform very well in reproducing the crystallographic conformations from both these data sets using two complementary metrics of success.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/75/de/PMC2859685.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5332978", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to determine the effect of stair task training on gait abilities by conducting stair task training. In this training, step training is applied in various directions with hemiplegia patients. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty-six patients with stroke were selected on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria, and they were randomly divided into eighteen patients in the experimental group and eighteen patients in the control group via draw. [Results] In this study, the Dartfish program was used to measure gait capabilities. Experiment group showed a statistically significant improvement in the swing phase time of the affected lower extremity compared to control group. [Conclusion] It was found that the stair task training group had effective results in the swing phase time of the affected lower extremity compared with the group that applied weight support on the affected lower extremity and balance training.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/b8/jpts-29-235.PMC5332978.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5103544", "abstract": "Background: Diabetes is known as one of the most common diseases in the world and its treatment is one of the most important healthcare issues. Consequently, different treatment methods of complementary medicine and recent medicine have been used by scientific communities to control and predict the disease. This article considered the effects of dry cupping and wet cupping, based on traditional medicine and recent studies. Methods: At first, the benefits of dry cupping and wet cupping were taken from some original books of Iranian traditional medicine, such as Canon of Medicine, Kholasat-al-hekma, Tib-e-Akbari and Exir-e-Azam. Then, the information about scientific articles was obtained by studying some of the Iranian traditional medicine journals and searching through PubMed, SID and Google Scholar. Results: In traditional medicine, Hijama is divided into two kinds, namely wet cupping (with sharat, with incision, and blood giving) and dry cupping (without sharat, without incision). Dry cupping causes organ blood absorption, organ warming, and loss of organ humidity. The texts of Iranian traditional medicine refer to the Ziabites disease that its symptoms are like diabetes. This disease is divided into two types including warm and cold ziabetes. The treatments that are recommended for both types are dry cupping for cold ziabetes and wet cupping for warm ziabetes. In addition, according to scientific studies, dry cupping and wet cupping have been recommended for diabetes treatment. Conclusion: Dry cupping and wet cupping can be introduced as the complementary treatment methods beside other treatment methods.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/44/IJMS-41-37.PMC5103544.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3658231", "abstract": "Gaucher disease (GD) is characterized by reduced activity of glucocerebrosidase leading to complications in the reticuloendothelial system. N396T, a rarer mutation of the glucocerebrosidase gene, has been encountered in Portuguese populations and has generally been associated with milder phenotypes. This report presents brief histories of two Portuguese sisters, both with homozygous N396T mutations. These patients are phenotypically very different despite the fact that in both patients residual enzyme activity is very low. The case of patient 1 is complicated by comorbid diabetes mellitus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) improved this patient’s clinical picture sufficiently to enable antiretroviral treatment to proceed for the HIV. This report demonstrates the poor correlation of clinical GD with genotype as well as with residual enzyme activity. It further illustrates how treatment of the underlying GD with ERT improved symptoms allowing for antiretroviral therapy thereby improving both the GD and HIV.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/dc/PMC3658231.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3403123", "abstract": "This review summarizes our present knowledge about elderly people's problems with walking. We highlight the plastic changes in the brain that allow a partial compensation of these age-related deficits and discuss the associated costs and limitations. Experimental evidence for the crucial role of executive functions and working memory is presented, leading us to the hypothesis that it is difficult for seniors to coordinate two streams of visual information, one related to navigation through visually defined space, and the other to a visually demanding second task. This hypothesis predicts that interventions aimed at the efficiency of visuovisual coordination in the elderly will ameliorate their deficits in dual-task walking.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3c/2e/PMC3403123.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3066733", "abstract": "Breast is an uncommon and rare site for metastasis. Primary and secondary tumors of the breast need to be differentiated as management is different. We present a 67 year old female patient with two breast lumps and an axillary lymph node, 5 years after nephrectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC). Mammogram report showed a dense spiculated mass at right upper outer quadrant and a retroareolar mass associated with clustered micro calcifications. Fine Needle Cytology and trucut biopsy were inconclusive. Computer Topography (CT) abdomen did not show evidence of RCC recurrence. After discussion with the patient, she underwent mastectomy with axillary clearance and the final histopathology report was consistent with metastasis from RCC. The management of this case is discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0b/db/LJM-4-120.PMC3066733.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4073335", "abstract": "ABSTRACT The hair microstructures of Korean terrestrial mammals from 23 species (22 wild and one domestic) were analyzed using light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to construct a hair identification key. The hairs were examined using the medulla structures and cuticular scales of guard hairs from the dorsal regions of mature adult animals. All cuticular scale structures in the hair of Rodentia, Lagomorpha, Carnivora and Insectivora showed the petal pattern, and those of Artiodactyla and Chiroptera showed the wave pattern and coronal pattern, respectively. Rodentia, Lagomorpha and Carnivora showed multicellular, and Insectivora and Artiodactyla showed unicellular regular, mesh or columnar in the medulla structures, respectively. Chiroptera did not show the medulla structures in their hair. We found that it is possible to distinguish between species and order based on general appearance, medulla structures and cuticular scales. Thus, we constructed a hair identification key with morphological characteristics from each species. This study suggests that hair identification keys could be useful in fields, such as forensic science, food safety and foraging ecology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b3/38/jvms-76-667.PMC4073335.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3930803", "abstract": "A set of exposure factors that reflects the characteristics of individual behavior capable of influencing exposure is essential for risk and exposure assessment. In 2007, the Korean Exposure Factors Handbook was, therefore, issued, driven by the need to develop reliable exposure factors representing the Korean population. The purpose of this study was to overview the development process of the Korean Exposure Factors Handbook and major recommended exposure values for the Korean population to allow information exchanges and comparison of recommended values among nations. The researchers reviewed the domestic data that could be used in the development of exposure factors, confirmed a knowledge gap, and set a priority of development by phases. A methodology to measure exposure factors was established to develop measuring techniques and test their validity. Data were processed or a survey was conducted according to the availability of data. The study thus produced recommended values for 24 exposure factors grouped by general exposure factors, food ingestion factors, and activity factors by setting up a database of exposure factors and carrying out statistical analysis. The study has significantly contributed to reducing the potential uncertainty of the risk and exposure assessment derived by the application of foreign data or research findings lacking representativeness or grounds by developing a set of exposure factors reflecting the characteristics of the Korean people. It will be necessary to conduct revisions in light of the changing statistical values of national data and the exposure factors based on Korean characteristics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b4/6b/jpmph-47-1.PMC3930803.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3652192", "abstract": "Since the first description of the Merkel cell carcinoma by Cyril Toker in 1972, the number of studies has significantly increased over the last 4 decades. In this review, we will illustrate the historical background of the Merkel cell carcinoma beginning with the 19th century, the first description of the Merkel cell to the finding of the CK20 as a highly specific diagnostic marker and finally to the recently detected Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). Moreover, we will highlight the beginning of adjuvant therapeutic regimens with radiotherapy and chemotherapy and discuss the diagnostic work-up including imaging and histology of patients with Merkel cell carcinoma. Another very rapidly growing and interesting field of research is the development of patients' specific and tailored targeted therapy, in particular in patients with distant metastatic disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/f6/PMC3652192.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2921060", "abstract": "The sleeping sickness parasite, Trypanosoma brucei, must differentiate in response to the changing environments that it encounters during its complex life cycle. One developmental form, the bloodstream stumpy stage, plays an important role in infection dynamics and transmission of the parasite. Recent advances have shed light on the molecular mechanisms by which these stumpy forms differentiate as they are transmitted from the mammalian host to the insect vector of sleeping sickness, tsetse flies. These molecular advances now provide improved experimental tools for the study of stumpy formation and function within the mammalian bloodstream. They also offer new routes to therapy via high-throughput screens for agents that accelerate parasite development. Here, we shall discuss the recent advances that have been made and the prospects for future research now available.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/3d/109_2010_Article_637.PMC2921060.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3636968", "abstract": "Systemic mastocytosis is characterized by abnormal growth and accumulation of mast cells in various organs. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common disease manifestations in this disease and can significantly impair the quality of life. Signs of GI systemic mastocytosis include steatorrhea, malabsorption, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, portal hypertension, and ascites. Acute appendicitis as a presenting feature in systemic mastocytosis has not been reported in the literature previously. In this report, we discuss the case of a female patient with systemic mastocytosis (c-KIT D816V (+)) who was admitted for right-sided acute abdominal pain. Laboratory study revealed an normal white blood cell count with eosinophilia and an elevated serum tryptase level of 23 μg/l. CT of the abdomen and pelvis showed an enlarged appendix of 12 mm in diameter, with minimal wall enhancement. Laparoscopic appendectomy was performed. The appendix was found to be hyperemic and firm, and it was densely adherent to the posterior cecum, the surrounding peritoneal wall, and the overlying mesenteric fat. Pathology revealed acute appendicitis with greater than 30 mast cells per high-power field by immunoperoxidase studies with mast cell tryptase and CD117. The patient subsequently improved and was discharged home. This case is the first reported case with a histological diagnosis of acute appendicitis resulting from mast cell infiltration. Physicians should be aware of acute appendicitis as a manifestation of systemic mastocytosis. Prompt diagnosis and management may prevent potentially fatal complications of appendiceal perforation and peritonitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7b/a4/cro-0006-0174.PMC3636968.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4541560", "abstract": "Background Epidural injections of anesthetic with or without steroids are widely used for treating lumbar spinal stenosis, a common cause of chronic low back pain, but there is a lack of rigorous data comparing the effectiveness of epidural injections of anesthetic with and without steroids. This meta-analysis presents a current, comprehensive picture of how epidural injections of anesthetic with steroids compare with those using local anesthetic alone. Methods PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from their inception through February 5, 2015. Weight mean difference, risk ratio, and 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f7/99/dddt-9-4657.PMC4541560.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3986288", "abstract": "Self-amplifying RNA or RNA replicon is a form of nucleic acid-based vaccine derived from either positive-strand or negative-strand RNA viruses. The gene sequences encoding structural proteins in these RNA viruses are replaced by mRNA encoding antigens of interest as well as by RNA polymerase for replication and transcription. This kind of vaccine has been successfully assayed with many different antigens as vaccines candidates, and has been shown to be potent in several animal species, including mice, nonhuman primates, and humans. A key challenge to realizing the broad potential of self-amplifying vaccines is the need for safe and effective delivery methods. Ideally, an RNA nanocarrier should provide protection from blood nucleases and extended blood circulation, which ultimately would increase the possibility of reaching the target tissue. The delivery system must then be internalized by the target cell and, upon receptor-mediated endocytosis, must be able to escape from the endosomal compartment into the cell cytoplasm, where the RNA machinery is located, while avoiding degradation by lysosomal enzymes. Further, delivery systems for systemic administration ought to be well tolerated upon administration. They should be safe, enabling the multiadministration treatment modalities required for improved clinical outcomes and, from a developmental point of view, production of large batches with reproducible specifications is also desirable. In this review, the concept of self-amplifying RNA vaccines and the most promising lipid-based delivery systems are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/84/d8/ijn-9-1833.PMC3986288.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2861929", "abstract": "We report a case of paraneoplastic retinopathy associated with a retroperitoneal liposarcoma. A 42-year-old man was referred to our hospital with complaints of night blindness and blurred vision in the peripheral field. Electroretinograms showed a progressive amplitude reduction in his both eyes. Abdominal magnetic resonance imaging showed a large retroperitoneal mass, and pathologic examination revealed a dedifferentiated liposarcoma. Western blot analysis showed an antiretinal antibody in the serum of our patient, and his serum reacted with the photoreceptors of a bovine retina. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of paraneoplastic retinopathy associated with a liposarcoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/63/30/PMC2861929.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4245865", "abstract": "Objective The objective this work was to assess the friction coefficient between brackets and wires of different materials under conditions simulating the oral environment. Material and Methods Stainless steel (SS) and titanium-molybdenum alloy (TMA) wires of 0.019x0.025-in diameter (American Orthodontics) and polycarbonate bracket (American Orthodontics), ceramic bracket (American Orthodontics), and metal bracket (3M Unitek) with slots of 0.022x0.030-in were used. The friction coefficient was assessed by means of mechanical traction with the system immersed in artificial saliva. The mean roughness of both wire surface and bracket slots was evaluated by using a surface profilometer. Results The system using TMA wire and polycarbonate bracket had the highest roughness (p<0.05). SS wire with ceramic bracket had the highest friction coefficient, whereas the use of metallic bracket yielded the lowest (p<0.05). However, it was observed a statistically significant difference in the system using TMA wire and ceramic bracket compared to that using TMA wire and polycarbonate bracket (p=0.038). Conclusion Ceramic brackets in association with SS wire should be judiciously used, since this system showed a high friction coefficient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/28/4b/jaos-19-01-0057.PMC4245865.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4987117", "abstract": "In a recent interdisciplinary study, Das et al. have attempted to trace the homeland of Ashkenazi Jews and of their historical language, Yiddish (. Localizing Ashkenazic Jews to Primeval Villages in the Ancient Iranian Lands of Ashkenaz. Genome Biol Evol. 8:1132–1149). Das et al. applied the geographic population structure (GPS) method to autosomal genotyping data and inferred geographic coordinates of populations supposedly ancestral to Ashkenazi Jews, placing them in Eastern Turkey. They argued that this unexpected genetic result goes against the widely accepted notion of Ashkenazi origin in the Levant, and speculated that Yiddish was originally a Slavic language strongly influenced by Iranian and Turkic languages, and later remodeled completely under Germanic influence. In our view, there are major conceptual problems with both the genetic and linguistic parts of the work. We argue that GPS is a provenancing tool suited to inferring the geographic region where a modern and recently unadmixed genome is most likely to arise, but is hardly suitable for admixed populations and for tracing ancestry up to 1,000 years before present, as its authors have previously claimed. Moreover, all methods of historical linguistics concur that Yiddish is a Germanic language, with no reliable evidence for Slavic, Iranian, or Turkic substrata.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/09/f3/evw162.PMC4987117.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3854587", "abstract": "We sought to determine the optimal placement and screw length for C2 pedicle screw fixation to compare with recommendations in literature. Nine patients were included in this study and underwent C2 pedicle instrumentation either for a hangman's fracture as part of C2 pedicle–C3 lateral mass fixation or for C2–C3 subluxation. All nine patients had good postoperative improvement with satisfactory fracture consolidation. Mediolateral and rostrocaudal angulations of the inserted screws were not consistent with the traditional angulations of 20 degrees in each plane due to the fracture lines and the anatomical variations. Because the frequent observation of the bony anatomical variations and the lines of fractures brought about by trauma, a shift from the classic 20 degrees of angulation in both trajectories has been concluded. But still fixed angles of angulations cannot be generalized. As a consequence, accurate preoperative planning can be obtained by computed tomography with three-dimensional images so that it gives the surgeon a good prediction of the best length of utilized screws in the procedure and the best angulations for safety of the neighboring neurovascular structures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/04/14/PMC3854587.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5228690", "abstract": "Abstract Background: Simultaneous multiple myeloma (MM) and pulmonary adenocarcinoma is a rare occurrence, and thus, treatment is a challenge. This study reports on 1 such case of MM with concurrent lung cancer, where an accurate diagnosis was made and the patient underwent treatment for both cancers. Case summary: A 68-year-old man presented with 2 months of progressive lower back pain. Visualization with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed multiple collapsed vertebrae from T12 to S3, as well as an altered signal intensity at the T3 vertebra. The patient was diagnosed with MM upon examination. A chest computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a round mass in the left lower lobe of the lungs, and a CT-guided needle biopsy uncovered a moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma. There were no additional notable findings in the left lung using positron emission tomography computed tomography (PET-CT). Therefore, a diagnosis of MM with pulmonary adenocarcinoma was made. Surgery was performed to excise the lung cancer. Bortezomib was used as first-line induction therapy against both tumors and lenalidomide was used for maintenance. The patient went into complete remission. Using this combined chemotherapy, the patient has survived for over 3 years since a diagnosis was made despite relapsing twice after the first year. Conclusion: This report clearly delineates the diagnosis and treatment of a rare case of synchronous MM and pulmonary adenocarcinoma, as well as depicts a potentially positive outcome for the patient. It also overviews some diagnostic and therapeutic implications for clinicians.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/87/80/medi-96-e5787.PMC5228690.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4834769", "abstract": "Background: Previous studies have indicated that the cognitive deficits in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) may be due to topological deteriorations of the brain network. However, whether the selection of a specific frequency band could impact the topological properties is still not clear. Our hypothesis is that the topological properties of AD patients are also frequency-specific. Methods: Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 10 right-handed moderate AD patients (mean age: 64.3 years; mean mini mental state examination [MMSE]: 18.0) and 10 age and gender-matched healthy controls (mean age: 63.6 years; mean MMSE: 28.2) were enrolled in this study. The global efficiency, the clustering coefficient (CC), the characteristic path length (CpL), and “small-world” property were calculated in a wide range of thresholds and averaged within each group, at three different frequency bands (0.01–0.06 Hz, 0.06–0.11 Hz, and 0.11–0.25 Hz). Results: At lower-frequency bands (0.01–0.06 Hz, 0.06–0.11 Hz), the global efficiency, the CC and the “small-world” properties of AD patients decreased compared to controls. While at higher-frequency bands (0.11–0.25 Hz), the CpL was much longer, and the “small-world” property was disrupted in AD, particularly at a higher threshold. The topological properties changed with different frequency bands, suggesting the existence of disrupted global and local functional organization associated with AD. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the topological alterations of large-scale functional brain networks in AD patients are frequency dependent, thus providing fundamental support for optimal frequency selection in future related research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/e4/CMJ-128-602.PMC4834769.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4887962", "abstract": "Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major blood-borne infection which imposes high economic cost on the patients. Objectives The current study aimed to evaluate the total annual cost due to chronic HCV related diseases imposed on each patient and their family in Southern Iran. Patients and Methods Economic burden of chronic hepatitis C-related liver diseases (chronic hepatitis C, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma) were examined. The current retrospective study evaluated 200 Iranian patients for their socioeconomic status, utilization (direct and indirect costs) and treatment costs and work days lost due to illness by a structured questionnaire in 2015. Costs of hospital admissions were extracted from databases of Nemazee hospital, Shiraz, Iran. The outpatient expenditure per patient was measured through the rate of outpatient visits and average cost per visit reported by the patients; while the inpatient costs were calculated through annual rate of hospital admissions and average expenditure. Self-medication and direct non-medical costs were also reported. The human capital approach was used to measure the work loss cost. Results The total annual cost per patient for chronic hepatitis C, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) based on purchasing power parity (PPP) were USD 1625.50, USD 6117.2, and USD 11047.2 in 2015, respectively. Conclusions Chronic hepatitis C-related liver diseases impose a substantial economic burden on patients, families and the society. The current study provides useful information on cost of treatment and work loss for different disease states, which can be further used in cost-effectiveness evaluations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1e/04/hepatmon-16-04-32654.PMC4887962.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4912643", "abstract": "Background: Providing care to a disable relative at home exposes the caregiver to a potentially higher risk of physical and mental problems. We measured health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and its determinants among the caregivers of the Iranian survivors of the Iran-Iraq war (1980–1988) with bilateral lower-limb amputation. Methods: Data were collected from 464 individuals comprising war-related bilateral lower-limb amputees (n=232) and their caregivers (n=232) in January 2015 in Shiraz, Iran. The 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire was used to evaluate the caregivers’ QOL. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the most significant contributing factors. Results: The mean age of the caregivers and the amputees was 39.4±6.2 and 42.5±6.2 years, respectively. The mean duration of disability was 22.8±3.9 years in the amputees. Most of the caregivers were reported to be in their first marriage. The highest and lowest mean scores of the SF-36 domains in the sample population were observed for physical function (76.65±21.97) and bodily pain (53.54±24.95). QOL in the caregivers was significantly lower than that in a sample of the general Iranian female population (P<0.05). History of hospitalization during the preceding year of the study (OR: 2.23, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/48/IJMS-41-257.PMC4912643.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5340455", "abstract": "Abstract There are limited data regarding factors affecting outcomes among acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients presenting with varying degrees of left ventricle (LV) dysfunction. We aimed to identify factors associated with mortality according to LV ejection fraction (LVEF) at 1st admission in ACS patients. A total of 8983 ACS patients prospectively enrolled in the Acute Coronary Syndrome Israeli Survey (2000–2010) were categorized according to their LVEF at admission: severe LV dysfunction (LVEF < 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/da/5a/medi-96-e6226.PMC5340455.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3074323", "abstract": "To determine the pattern of drug prescription by consultants in a private hospital in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 1190 prescriptions were collected from the hospital's pharmacy over 30 days. In total, 2659 drugs were prescribed. The mean number of drugs per encounter was 2.2. Only 4.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/ec/LJM-3-010.PMC3074323.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4504606", "abstract": "Abstract We report a rare case involving a patient with C3 vertebral body metastasis secondary to adenoid cystic carcinoma of the tongue. Five years after local resection of the primary tumor, magnetic resonance imaging showed a metastasis located in the left posterior border of the C3 vertebral body. Additionally, multiple pulmonary metastases were identified by computed tomography. Based on these findings, the patient underwent C2–3, C3–4 discectomy; C3 corpectomy; and titanium mesh fusion with a Zephir plate. The diagnosis was confirmed by the pathology findings. During 6 months of follow-up, the patient showed improvement and return of function of the cervical vertebrae, with no serious complications. Because of the scarcity of cases of vertebral metastases from tumors of the tongue in the literature, we have reported this case to add to the available evidence regarding this rarely encountered condition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/db/medi-94-e1135.PMC4504606.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4514661", "abstract": "This paper relates the quantum–mechanical equilibrium isotopic fractionation correction to the radiocarbon dating method by Eq. 9, and also shows the significant influence of temperature on the method. It is suggested that the correction is a function of the frequencies and temperature of a specific sample and these two variables can be evaluated theoretically by the ab initio quantum calculations and experimentally by analyzing the clumped-isotope ratios in it, respectively. This paper also suggests that the 14C/12C ratio in the atmosphere in geological time can be calculated by Eq. 10.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/03/10967_2011_Article_1563.PMC4514661.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4923468", "abstract": "Objective(s): In the present study, our aim was to investigate the possible protective effects of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced hepatotoxicity by using Hep3B human hepatoma cells. Specifically, the study examines the role of some proinflammatory markers and oxidative damage as possible mechanisms of LPS-associated cytotoxicity. Consequently, the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line Hep3B was chosen as a model for investigation of LPS toxicity and the effect of EGCG on LPS-exposed cells. Materials and Methods: The Hep3B human hepatoma cells were used for this study. The cytotoxic effects of chemicals (EGCG and LPS), AST and ALT levels, SOD and CAT activities, GSH-Px level and TNF-alpha and IL-6 levels were detected by using different biochemical and molecular methods. LPS and EGCG were applied to cells at various times and doses. Results: The highest treatment dose of EGCG (400 µM) led to a dramatic decrease in SOD level and increase in CAT and GSH levels. Additionally, the highest dose of EGCG also led to a dramatic increase in TNF-alpha and IL-6 levels. On the other hand, effective doses of EGCG (200 and 100 µM) normalized all related parameters levels. Conclusion: LPS caused hepatotoxicity, but interestingly, a high dose of EGCG was found to be a cytotoxic agent in this study. However, other two doses of EGCG led to a decrease in both inflammatory cytokine levels and antioxidant enzyme levels. Further studies should examine the effect of EGCG on secondary cellular signaling pathways.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/76/IJBMS-19-483.PMC4923468.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3250601", "abstract": "Central venous catheters (CVCs) are regularly used in intensive care units, and catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) remains a leading cause of healthcare-associated infections, particularly in preterm infants. Increased survival rate of extremely-low-birth-weight infants can be partly attributed to routine practice of CVC placement. The most common types of CVCs used in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) include umbilical venous catheters, peripherally inserted central catheters, and tunneled catheters. CRBSI is defined as a laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection (BSI) with either a positive catheter tip culture or a positive blood culture drawn from the CVC. BSIs most frequently result from pathogens such as gram-positive cocci, coagulase-negative staphylococci, and sometimes gram-negative organisms. CRBSIs are usually associated with several risk factors, including prolonged catheter placement, femoral access, low birth weight, and young gestational age. Most NICUs have a strategy for catheter insertion and maintenance designed to decrease CRBSIs. Specific interventions slightly differ between NICUs, particularly with regard to the types of disinfectants used for hand hygiene and appropriate skin care for the infant. In conclusion, infection rates can be reduced by the application of strict protocols for the placement and maintenance of CVCs and the education of NICU physicians and nurses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/60/kjped-54-363.PMC3250601.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3284270", "abstract": "Diabetes mellitus can cause devastating foot problems including loss of protective sensation with subsequent ulcerations and amputations. The natural history and pathophysiology of diabetic foot ulcers is best understood and managed by a multiprofessional team approach. The main factors for prevention and treatment of these devastating diabetic foot conditions are shown, with special attention to education of the patient. This approach decreases the morbidity of the disease, besides its economical and social feasibility.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/aa/DFA-1-5203.PMC3284270.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1891653", "abstract": "Urban health promotion is not simply a matter of the right interventions, or even the necessary resources. Urban (and indeed global) health depends to an important extent on governance, the institutions and processes through which societies manage the course of events. This paper describes the concept of governance, distinguishing between reforms aimed at improving how government works and innovations that more fundamentally reinvent governance by developing new institutions and processes of local stakeholder control. The paper highlights strategies urban governors can use to maximize their influence on the national and international decisions that structure urban life. It concludes with some observations on the limitations of local governance strategies and the importance of establishing a “virtuous circuit” of governance through which urban dwellers play a greater role in the formation and implementation of policy at the national and global levels.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9b/79/PMC1891653.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3471227", "abstract": "Dependence of basal cell carcinomas and medulloblastomas on the Hedgehog pathway provides an opportunity for targeted or “personalized” therapy. The recent effectiveness and FDA approval of the first Smoothened inhibitors validates this class of agents, but has revealed drug-resistant tumor variants that bypass Smoothened inhibition. Here, we summarize the effectiveness of Hedgehog pathway inhibitors and highlight promising areas for the development of next generation drug antagonists for Hedgehog-dependent cancers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/48/JCB_201207140.PMC3471227.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3687501", "abstract": " Purpose: To evaluate the outcomes of the hybrid technique of posterior lamellar keratoplasty (DMEK-S). Materials and Methods: 71 eyes of 55 patients enrolled in a single-center study underwent posterior lamellar keratoplasty with a hybrid lamella DMEK-S implanted using a solution implantation technique, owing to endothelial dysfunction. The outcome measures studied were visual acuity and endothelial cell density. Results: The rate of endothelial cell loss caused by surgery was 43.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/bc/PMC3687501.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4927869", "abstract": "Background: Timely diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) refers to a diagnosis at the stage when patients come to the attention of clinicians because of concerns about changes in cognition, behavior, or functioning and can be still free of dementia and functionally independent. Objectives: To comprehensively review existing scientific evidence on the benefits and potential challenges of making a timely diagnosis of AD. Methods: Relevant studies were identified by searching electronic databases (Medline, Embase) and bibliographies for studies published in English between 1 January 2000 and 2 June 2014 on the consequences of a timely diagnosis of AD. Results: Nine studies were identified that investigated the consequences of diagnosing AD at the initial stages; none were specifically focused on prodromal AD. A timely diagnosis potentially offers the opportunities of early intervention, implementation of coordinated care plans, better management of symptoms, patient safety, cost savings, and postponement of institutionalization. Barriers to making a timely diagnosis include stigma, suicide risk, lack of training, diagnostic uncertainty, shortage of specialized diagnostic services, and the reluctance of healthcare providers to make a diagnosis when no effective disease-modifying options are available. Conclusions: Despite its potential benefits, few published studies have explored the advantages or risks of a timely diagnosis of AD. In light of the cultural shift toward diagnosis at the initial stage of the disease continuum, when the patient does not yet have dementia, more investigations are needed to evaluate the benefits and address the barriers that may impede making a timely AD diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/b0/jad-49-3-jad150692.PMC4927869.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3291452", "abstract": "Necrotizing pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus strains carrying the Panton-Valentin leukocidin gene is a newly described disease entity. We report a new fatal case of necrotizing pneumonia. An S. aureus strain with an agr1 allele and of a new sequence type 377 was recovered, representing a new, emerging, community-acquired methicillin-resistant clone.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/64/76/PMC3291452.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2710432", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine predictors of in-hospital mortality among older patients admitted to a geriatric care unit. INTRODUCTION: The growing number of older individuals among hospitalized patients demands a thorough investigation of the factors that contribute to their mortality. METHODS: This was a prospective observational study implemented from February 2004 to October 2007 in a tertiary university hospital. A consecutive sample of 922 patients was evaluated for possible inclusion in this study. Patients hospitalized for palliative care, those who declined to participate, and those with incomplete data were excluded, resulting in a group of 856 patients aged 60 to 104 years. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine associations between in-patient mortality and gender, age, length of stay, number of prescribed medications and diagnoses at admission, history of heart failure, neoplastic disease, immobility syndrome, delirium, infectious disease, and laboratory tests at admission (serum albumin and creatinine). RESULTS: The overall mortality rate was 16.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1e/b3/PMC2710432.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3665658", "abstract": "Acute renal infarction is still an underdiagnosed pathology. Most cases are secondary to arterial embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation or other cardiac illnesses; however, a less known etiology is the vascular affection of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Renal infarction in lupus patients normally appears with positive antiphospholipid antibodies or lupus anticoagulant in the context of an antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). This is characterized by a state of hypercoagulability potentially affecting all segments of the vascular bed with thrombosis. A differential diagnosis with lupus nephritis, a very common pathology in SLE patients, must be carried out. We have to suspect this pathology in patients with SLE and APS who come to the emergency department complaining of abdominal pains or a renal colic. We present the case of a 69-year-old woman who was diagnosed of bilateral segmental renal infarction in the context of recently diagnosed SLE with no other vascular manifestations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/83/PMC3665658.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4563334", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to assess the quality of evidence for the efficacy of tendon and nerve gliding exercises in the management of carpal tunnel syndrome. [Subjects and Methods] Four electronic databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials on the efficacy of tendon and nerve gliding exercises for carpal tunnel syndrome. Quality assessment was conducted using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. [Results] Four trials were identified and included in the review. The results of critical appraisal of quality ranged between low and moderate risk of bias. The available data could only be included as a narrative description. Symptom severity decreased and functional status improved with combined treatment, involving a tendon or nerve gliding exercise group plus conventional treatments, compared with the use of conventional treatments alone. [Conclusion] Evidence from 4 randomized controlled trials suggests that tendon and nerve gliding exercises, when combined with conventional treatments, may have a favorable effect in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. However, further randomized controlled trials designed to assess the effect of tendon and nerve gliding exercises alone are required to investigate the hypothesis that such exercises alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome, and to confirm and further elucidate the efficacy of standardized physical exercise programs in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/a7/jpts-27-2645.PMC4563334.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4282874", "abstract": "When insects communicate by sound, or use acoustic cues to escape predators or detect prey or hosts they have to localize the sound in most cases, to perform adaptive behavioral responses. In the case of particle velocity receivers such as the antennae of mosquitoes, directionality is no problem because such receivers are inherently directional. Insects equipped with bilateral pairs of tympanate ears could principally make use of binaural cues for sound localization, like all other animals with two ears. However, their small size is a major problem to create sufficiently large binaural cues, with respect to both interaural time differences (ITDs, because interaural distances are so small), but also with respect to interaural intensity differences (IIDs), since the ratio of body size to the wavelength of sound is rather unfavorable for diffractive effects. In my review, I will only shortly cover these biophysical aspects of directional hearing. Instead, I will focus on aspects of directional hearing which received relatively little attention previously, the evolution of a pressure difference receiver, 3D-hearing, directional hearing outdoors, and directional hearing for auditory scene analysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ae/9d/PMC4282874.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4257835", "abstract": "West Nile virus (WNV) is becoming more widespread and markedly effecting public health. We sequenced the complete polyprotein gene of a divergent WNV strain newly detected in a pool of Uranotaenia unguiculata mosquitoes in Austria. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that the new strain constitutes a ninth WNV lineage or a sublineage of WNV lineage 4.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/13/44/PMC4257835.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3489134", "abstract": "Economies of size refer to the ability of a farm to lower costs of production by increasing production. Agriculture production displays an L-shaped average cost curve where costs are lower initially but reach a point where no further gains are achieved. Spreading fixed costs, bulk purchases, and marketing power are cited as reasons for economies of size. Labor-reducing technologies may be the primary reason. Most studies do not include the external costs from prophylactic antibiotic use, impact on rural communities, and environmental damage associated with large-scale production. These can contribute to the economies of size.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e3/8e/PMC3489134.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4516346", "abstract": "Background Ocular manifestations of the dengue fever virus include bilateral panuveitis that can occur after the acute systemic infection has resolved. In most reported cases, the inflammation resolves with topical or systemic steroid therapy. We report a case of chronic, refractory bilateral panuveitis and uveitic glaucoma that began during the acute phase of the systemic infection and required treatment with oral steroids, multiple steroid-sparing agents, and surgical therapy for glaucoma. Findings A 22-year-old male with acute systemic dengue fever presented with bilateral pain and decreased vision. Clinical examination revealed bilateral panuveitis with elevated intraocular pressures. Management required oral steroids, mycophenolate mofetil, cyclosporine, and bilateral glaucoma valve implantation. Conclusion This case highlights the fact that dengue-associated panuveitis can begin in the acute stage of systemic infection and persist long after convalescence with progression to chronic bilateral panuveitis and uveitic glaucoma. Dengue-associated chronic panuveitis with uveitic glaucoma may be effectively managed with a combination of steroid-sparing oral immunosuppression and glaucoma surgery. This is, to our knowledge, the first case of bilateral refractory dengue-associated panuveitis from the Caribbean treated with combination steroid-sparing oral immunosuppression and bilateral glaucoma valve implantation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/d7/imcrj-8-151.PMC4516346.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4860443", "abstract": "Rehabilitation may be helpful in the prevention of complications associated with the treatment of patients with pectus excavatum who are subjected to surgery using the Ravitch and Nuss methods. This paper presents the case of a patient who underwent successful physical rehabilitation after 8 weeks from the surgery using the combined method. As part of the Nuss procedure, two plates were implanted to form a scaffolding for the patient's chest, which had previously been corrected with the Ravitch method. The plates were to be removed after 24 months of treatment. After the procedure, in spite of the favorable cosmetic effect of the repair, there was a significant decrease in the spirometric values and physical fitness of the patient. He underwent an individual physiotherapy program, which lasted four weeks. The streamlining of the respiratory system has significantly improved the spirometric values and raised the overall performance of the patient's organism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1e/7a/KITP-13-58973.PMC4860443.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4649733", "abstract": "Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) dissection without aortic dissection is a rare condition, and its diagnosis is considered to be difficult. Intestinal infarction is a severe complication of the disease, which may require resection of the intestine. We present a case of isolated SMA dissection. A 53-year-old man experienced sudden pain in the abdomen while playing Japanese pinball and was admitted to our hospital due to acute abdominal symptoms of uncertain cause. Enhanced CT revealed a defect of the root of the SMA, while angiography and intravascular ultrasound findings showed dissection of the SMA wall. Conservative treatment was chosen at the time, while a part of the small intestine was eventually resected because of progressive ischemia. Although SMA dissection is a rare occurrence in cases with acute abdominal symptoms, awareness of the condition is important for differential diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/da/crg-0009-0341.PMC4649733.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4352370", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message A 66-year-old man with rectal cancer was found to have an incidental ring-like lesion in the left rectovesical pouch. Histology revealed an encapsulated fat necrosis. Intraperitoneal encapsulated fat necroses are postulated to be a result of infarcted epiploic appendages resulting in a free-floating lesion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0c/b7/ccr30003-0131.PMC4352370.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5276781", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to evaluate the amount of physical activity of the patients with critical limb ischemia consecutively in order to clarify the characteristics of physical activity of critical limb ischemia. [Subjects and Methods] Twelve patients who were eligible for the 2 months of consecutive evaluation of the amount of physical activity were enrolled in the study (men: 11; woman: 1; mean age: 64.4 [range: 44–80]). A pedometer with an accelerometer was used for the measurement of the number of steps walked as an index of the amount of physical activity. Participants were asked to lead a regular life and no instruction was given as to the number of steps. [Results] The average number of daily steps walked was 2,323 steps (range: 404–6,505). There was no clear tendency in the number of amputation site-specific steps walked. There was also no correlation between the number of steps walked and age as well as the maximum strength of the knee-extension muscle, skin perfusion pressure of the sole and the dorsum, and QOL scores. [Conclusion] The number of steps walked of the patients with critical limb ischemia was remarkably low and no significant association with health-related QOL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/18/1a/jpts-28-3454.PMC5276781.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4579277", "abstract": "Background: There is increasing interest in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) expressing “stemness”-related markers, as they have been associated with aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. In this study, we investigated the usefulness of Sal-like protein 4 (SALL4), a recently proposed candidate marker of “stemness.” Methods: Immunohistochemical stains were performed for SALL4, K19, and epithelial cellular adhesion molecule (EpCAM) on tissue microarrays constructed from 190 surgically resected HCCs, and the results were correlated with the clinicopathological features and patient survival data. Results: Nuclear SALL4 expression was observed in 39/190 HCCs (20.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/4b/jptm-49-5-373.PMC4579277.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5134867", "abstract": "Abstract Introduction: Progressive hemifacial atrophy (PHA) is a rare disorder characterized by unilateral facial atrophy affecting the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and fat, muscle, and osteocartilagenous structures creating a sunken hemiface appearance. Etiopathogenesis of PHA is poorly understood; no definitive treatment is currently available. Clinical Findings: We report a 41-year-old woman with PHA who showed an uncharacteristic “relapsing–remitting” evolution of brain lesions and was seropositive for hepatitis B virus (HBV). She presented with a history of recurrent tonic-clonic seizures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed progressive atrophy and multiple white matter lesions in the left side of the brain. Interestingly, the serial MRI examination (4 MRI scans over a period of 9 years) showed a “relapsing–remitting” pattern of brain lesions akin to that observed in a subtype of multiple sclerosis. Autoimmune-related investigations revealed increased serum levels of immunoglobulin (Ig) G, anti-nuclear antibody (ANA), and γ-IgG. Infection is considered as one of the possible causes of PHA. However, the association of peripheral infection such as HBV infection with PHA has not been reported. Conclusion: Our experience with this case suggests that PHA may have a relapsing–remitting disease course. Autoimmune inflammatory response to chronic HBV infection may have triggered the relapse in this case. This case underlines a novel etiopathogenetic mechanism of PHA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/32/medi-95-e5390.PMC5134867.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3525115", "abstract": "The rapid accumulation of mutation data has led to the creation of nearly 300 locus-specific mutation databases. These sites may contain a few dozen to almost 20,000 mutations for a given gene. Many of the mutations are uncharacterised and have no known effects on the gene product, the 'variant of uncertain significance'. Here, the statistics of mutation distribution are examined for six different gene databases: BRCA1 and BRCA2, haemoglobin-beta (HBB), HPRT1, CFTR and TP53. The percentage of all possible point mutations for a protein (the mutation space) is calculated for each gene and the question 'How much mutation data is enough?' is raised.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/07/PMC3525115.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC514271", "abstract": "Predictive medicine, utilizing the ProteinChip® Array technology, will develop through the implementation of novel biomarkers and multimarker patterns for detecting disease, determining patient prognosis, monitoring drug effects such as efficacy or toxicity, and for defining treatment options. These biomarkers may also serve as novel protein drug candidates or protein drug targets. In addition, the technology can be used for discovering small molecule drugs or for defining their mode of action utilizing protein-based assays. In this review, we describe the following applications of the ProteinChip Array technology: (1) discovery and identification of novel inhibitors of HIV-1 replication, (2) serum and tissue proteome analysis for the discovery and development of novel multimarker clinical assays for prostate, breast, ovarian, and other cancers, and (3) biomarker and drug discovery applications for neurological disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/e3/PMC514271.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3830808", "abstract": "Despite the benefits of HAART, HIV-infected patients are increasingly affected by different malignancies. We compared a 5-year-period survival time and prognostic factors for HIV-1-infected individuals diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) in a nested case-control study, with non-HIV-infected individuals in Salvador, Brazil. Survival time and prognostic factors were compared to HIV-negative patients. 31 cases (versus 63 controls) had a significantly more advanced NHL at diagnosis and lower mean CD4 count (26 cells/mm3) than controls. Mean overall survival (OS) was 35.8 versus 75.4 months, for cases and controls, respectively (P < 0.001), while mean event-free survival time (EFS) was 34.5 months for cases, versus 68.8 for controls (P = 0.002). Higher IPI, increased LDH levels, bone marrow infiltration, lower absolute lymphocyte counts (<1,000 cells/mm3), and type B symptoms were associated with a shorter survival time for cases. Although patients without poorer prognostic factors at baseline had an OS comparable to controls, the mean CD4 cell count for cases was similar for patients with favorable and nonfavorable response to therapy. Our findings suggest that HIV-1 infection is significantly associated with a shorter survival time for patients with NHL, independently of other predictive factors and of disease stage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c7/aa/PMC3830808.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3587897", "abstract": "Background Latent adenocarcinoma of prostate refers to cases who present no obvious sign or symptom during their life spans and the tumor is incidentally found at postmortem examination. Its frequency can be very important in epidemiologic investigations, prevention and treatment. No previous study has been done in this regard in Iran and the studies performed in other countries show various results. The aim of present study is to determine the frequency of latent prostate carcinoma by studying the corpora of men above 50 years old referred to forensic medicine organization in Tehran in 2008 and 2009. Methods In this study, 149 men aged above 50 who had died of different reasons and undergone autopsy were examined. Their prostates were excised and the slides were studied for the presence of adenocarcioma and prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN). In each case, age, weight of prostate, location of lesion, and grading according to Gleason's system were determined and the results were analyzed by SPSS software (version 16). Results Out of 149 cases, 34(22.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/69/62/MJIRI-26-73.PMC3587897.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4921635", "abstract": " Background. A subgroup of MS patients present with “euphoria.” Classical authors describe this symptom as the predominant mood state of these patients, while contemporary authors regard it as rare. Objective. This study aimed to address these discrepancies and investigate the contributions made by varying operational definitions and measurement instruments. Methods. One hundred MS patients and 100 matched controls completed the classical interview of Cottrell and Wilson and the modern Neuropsychiatric Inventory in a once-off interview. Results. The MS group demonstrated high frequencies of euphoria using the classical measure but low frequencies using the contemporary measure and definition. The matched control group demonstrated significantly higher rates than the MS group using the classical measure and lower rates than the MS group using the contemporary measure. Conclusion. The discrepancies in incidence rates of euphoria noted in the literature do not reflect a change in the incidence of euphoria in MS, but rather in the definition and operationalisation of “euphoria.” Furthermore, these results highlight the importance of characterising what represents pathological euphoria as well as the need for better definitions and instruments of measure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a8/b3/PMC4921635.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649527", "abstract": "Tonsilloliths are calcified concretions that originate within the palatal tonsil crypts. Moreover, development of these concretions into giant tonsilloliths is exceptionally uncommon. We present a 17-year-old female with a two-year history of increasing dysphagia, persistent oral cavity swelling and speech alteration. Clinical examination of the oral cavity revealed a large solid left tonsil with no obvious neck masses. Computer tomography demonstrated a well-defined, large calcified left tonsillar fossa mass of uncertain underlying cause. This patient subsequently underwent surgical excision for histology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7e/12/PMC3649527.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3333834", "abstract": "A 43-year-old Caucasian homosexual man with AIDS presented with blurring of vision, change of personality, and memory loss in March 1999. He had first been admitted 2 months previously for treatment of Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia. A magnetic resonance imaging scan on admission showed multiple white matter lesions involving both subcortical cerebral hemispheres and cerebellar regions, with no mass effect or surrounding edema. JC virus was detected by nested polymerase chain reaction in the cerebrospinal fluid. These findings were diagnostic of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). His CD4 count was 34 cells/mL, and his HIV ribonucleic acid level was 800,789 copies/mL. He was treated with a combination antiretroviral therapy. He was last reviewed in October 2011. He was fully independent socially and mentally, but he still had some residual neurologic signs with right-sided homonymous hemianopia and visual agnosia. His HIV ribonucleic acid level was undetectable, and his CD4 count was 574 cells/mm3. Although the median survival of patients with PML was poor before the antiretroviral therapy era, our patient, who is now aged 55 years, is still alive 12 years after the diagnosis. The diagnosis of PML and differential diagnosis of focal neurologic signs in HIV-positive patients are discussed in this case report.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a3/ab/PMC3333834.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4316564", "abstract": "Background The differentiation between acute and latent forms of the Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection is still considered as a complicated issue. This study was aimed to elucidate the status of infection in the blood donors and the probable importance of blood transfusion in the transmission of the infection through detecting both immunological and genetic markers of acute and latent infection. Methods Totally 235 blood samples from blood donors were collected. The levels of anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies were examined by specific ELISA kits. cDNA were synthesized from total extracted mRNA molecules from the serum samples and SAG1 gene, specific for tachyzoite form, were amplified using Real-Time PCR technique. Demographic information of study subjects including their gender, age, job, and habitat were recorded. Results Out of 235 serum samples, 80 (34.04", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/42/0f/PMC4316564.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC137311", "abstract": "Following intravenous administration, vancomycin is poorly metabolized and is mainly excreted unchanged in urine. Total body clearance is thus dependent on the kidney, and is correlated with glomerular filtration rate and creatinine clearance. Accumulation of vancomycin in patients with renal insufficiency may therefore occur, and this may lead to toxic side effects if dosage is not modified according to the degree of renal failure. Furthermore, vancomycin easily diffuses through dialysis membranes. The aim of the present review is to establish guidelines for handling this drug in such patients. We indicate how and when plasma concentrations of vancomycin should be determined in dialysis patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/de/df/PMC137311.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3362844", "abstract": "Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are a rather heterogeneous group of diseases, with either sporadic or genetic origin or both, all characterized by the progressive degeneration of motor neurons. At the cellular level, MNDs share features such as protein misfolding and aggregation, mitochondrial damage and energy deficit, and excitotoxicity and calcium mishandling. This is particularly well demonstrated in ALS, where both sporadic and familial forms share the same symptoms and pathological phenotype, with a prominent role for mitochondrial damage and resulting oxidative stress. Based on recent data, however, altered control of gene expression seems to be a most relevant, and previously overlooked, player in MNDs. Here we discuss which may be the links that make pathways apparently as different as altered gene expression, mitochondrial damage, and oxidative stress converge to generate a similar motoneuron-toxic phenotype.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/65/d2/PMC3362844.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3952375", "abstract": "Islet cell tumors (ICTs) are rare tumors of the pancreas. Association of this type of tumor with tuberous sclerosis is extremely rare. Only 13 cases of pancreatic ICT with tuberous sclerosis have so far been documented in the literature. However, awareness of the association of tuberous sclerosis and ICT is important for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of this condition. This article presents the case of a 63-year-old female with angiomyolipoma (AML) of the kidney and liver, calcified subependymal nodules and a large mass in the pancreas, which was proven to be an ICT on histopathological examination.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/dd/JCIS-4-3.PMC3952375.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2779316", "abstract": "Sturge-Weber syndrome can be associated with facial port-wine stains and intracranial calcification, and concurrent Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome has been reported. Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome is a rare congenital mesodermal phakomatosis characterized by cutaneous hemangiomas, venous varicosities and soft tissue or bone hypertrophy of the affected extremities. This report is presented a rare case of the Sturge-Weber syndrome in combination with the Klippel-Trennaunay syndrome and phakomatosis pigmentovascularis in a 4-month-old infant. He showed nevus flameus on the right leg and both part of the face and back, leptomeningeal angiomatosis on right hemisphere, hypertrophy of the right leg, hemiconvulsion on the left and also evidences of congenital glaucoma and nevus of Ota. Very rare case combined with these three kinds of phakomatosis has been reported.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4a/f6/jkms-20-1082.PMC2779316.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5410906", "abstract": "Introduction Hospital websites are important tools in establishing communication and exchanging information between patients and staff, and thus should enjoy an acceptable level of quality. The aim of this study was to identify proper models and criteria to evaluate the quality of hospital websites. Methods This research was a systematic review study. The international databases such as Science Direct, Google Scholar, PubMed, Proquest, Ovid, Elsevier, Springer, and EBSCO together with regional database such as Magiran, Scientific Information Database, Persian Journal Citation Report (PJCR) and IranMedex were searched. Suitable keywords including website, evaluation, and quality of website were used. Full text papers related to the research were included. The criteria and sub criteria of the evaluation of website quality were extracted and classified. Results To evaluate the quality of the websites, various models and criteria were presented. The WEB-Q-IM, Mile, Minerva, Seruni Luci, and Web-Qual models were the designed models. The criteria of accessibility, content and apparent features of the websites, the design procedure, the graphics applied in the website, and the page’s attractions have been mentioned in the majority of studies. Conclusion The criteria of accessibility, content, design method, security, and confidentiality of personal information are the essential criteria in the evaluation of all websites. It is suggested that the ease of use, graphics, attractiveness and other apparent properties of websites are considered as the user-friendliness sub criteria. Further, the criteria of speed and accessibility of the website should be considered as sub criterion of efficiency. When determining the evaluation criteria of the quality of websites, attention to major differences in the specific features of any website is essential.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/7c/epj-09-3786.PMC5410906.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3283789", "abstract": "Myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma (MIFS) is a recently defined rare tumor. It is mainly found in the upper and lower extremities of adults. Due to its high local recurrence rate and low metastatic rate, it is classified as a low grade-malignancy. Accurate diagnosis and early, wide excision are important for prognosis. Herein, we report a case of MIFS in a 35-year-old male patient that presented in an unusual location, the left chest wall. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of MIFS in Korea and the second case to be reported within the global scientific literature involving the chest wall.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/be/d5/kjtcs-45-65.PMC3283789.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3092580", "abstract": "We studied changes in apathy among 77 community-dwelling older persons with mild memory loss in a randomized clinical trial comparing two nonpharmacological interventions over four weeks. The study used a pre-post design with randomization by site to avoid contamination and diffusion of effect. Interventions were offered twice weekly after baseline evaluations were completed. The treatment group received classroom style mentally stimulating activities (MSAs) while the control group received a structured early-stage social support (SS) group. The results showed that the MSA group had significantly lower levels of apathy (P < .001) and significantly lower symptoms of depression (P < .001). While both groups improved on quality of life, the MSA group was significantly better (P = .02) than the SS group. Executive function was not significantly different for the two groups at four weeks, but general cognition improved for the MSA group and declined slightly for the SS group which produced a significant posttest difference (P < .001). Recruitment and retention of SS group members was difficult in this project, especially in senior center locations, while this was not the case for the MSA group. The examination of the data at this four-week time point shows promising results that the MSA intervention may provide a much needed method of reducing apathy and depressive symptoms, while motivating participation and increasing quality of life.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2d/35/PMC3092580.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4228200", "abstract": "A 70-year-old woman presented with a short history of a spontaneous enterocutaneos fistula in the left inguinal region. A laparotomy revealed a fistulizing Richter's hernia. The fistulizing small bowel segment was resected and the femoral hernia repaired from below. Although rare, a complicating Richter's hernia should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a groin fistula.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5f/0c/rju121.PMC4228200.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4414780", "abstract": "Chiari type I malformation is a tonsillar herniation more than 3 mm from the level of foramen magnum, with or without concurrent syringomyelia. Different surgical treatments have been developed for syringomyelia secondary to Chiari's malformations: craniovertebral decompression with or without plugging of the obex, syringo-subarachnoid, syringo-peritoneal, and theco-peritoneal shunt placement. Shunt placement procedures are useful for neurologically symptomatic large-sized syrinx. In this paper, authors define the first successful treatment of a patient with syringomyelia due to Chiari type I malformation using a pre-defined new technique of syringo-subarachnoid-peritoneal shunt with T-tube system.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4b/b2/jkns-57-311.PMC4414780.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4130960", "abstract": "Hypertrophic pachymeningitis is an uncommon disorder that causes a localized or diffuse thickening of the dura mater. Recently, the possibility that IgG4-related sclerosing disease may underlie some cases of intracranial hypertrophic pachymeningitis has been suggested. We herein report the tenth case of IgG4-related intracranial hypertrophic pachymeningitis and review the previous literature. A 45-year-old male presented with left-sided focal seizures with generalization. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a diffuse thickening and enhancement of the right convexity dura matter and falx with focal nodularity. The surgically resected specimens exhibited the proliferation of fibroblast-like spindle cells and an infiltration of mononuclear cells, including predominantly plasma cells. The ratio of IgG4-positive plasma cells to the overall IgG-positive cells was 45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cc/c8/jkns-55-300.PMC4130960.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2627412", "abstract": "Breast cancer developing from a surgical scar is rare; this type of malignancy has been reported in only 12 cases to date. Herein, we report on a 52-year-old female who developed infiltrating ductal carcinoma in a surgical scar following excision of a benign mass. Two years previously, the patient underwent surgery and radiotherapy for invasive ductal carcinoma of the contralateral breast. The initial appearance of the scar was similar to fat necrosis; it was observed to be progressively shrinking on follow-up sonography. On the two year follow-up ultrasound, the appearance changed, an angular margin and vascularity at the periphery of the scar were noted. A biopsy and subsequent excision of the scar were performed; the diagnosis of infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the scar was confirmed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/06/f0/kjr-8-254.PMC2627412.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4333323", "abstract": " Purpose. To describe and explore an alternative approach for sulcus intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in the absence of capsular support. Methods. The commonly available one-piece poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) lens is stabilized in the sulcus by two intraocular horizontal strings of 10/0 polypropylene suture passed through the lens dialing holes in opposite directions to achieve a mechanical balance. The horizontal strings of 10/0 polypropylene work as a rail track for the IOL optics, allowing some side to side lens adjustment even following wound closure. The stability of the IOL was tested in vitro. Six aphakic patients underwent in-sulcus IOL secondary implantation using the balanced two-string technique. Patients were followed up for a minimum of six months. Best spectacle corrected vision was assessed. Lens centration and lens tilt were measured by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). Results. All patients had successful lens insertion. Best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) improved in all patients. Lens decentration ranged between 0.21 mm and 0.9 mm (average 0.53 mm). Lens tilt ranged between 1.2° and 2.8° (average 2.17°). Conclusion. The mechanically balanced two-string technique is an alternative option for sulcus IOL implantation in absence of capsular support, allowing lens centration adjustment with no additional risks.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c4/e6/PMC4333323.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3658504", "abstract": "The expression of allergic phenotypes involves complex inter-relationships among several Th2 and Th1 cytokines as well as the regulator cytokine interleukin (IL)-10. These direct or indirect interrelationships may distort the true associations of cytokine responses with these phenotypes. In this study, we aimed to clarify the effects of the regulatory cytokine IL-10 and Th1 cytokine interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) on allergic phenotypes after adjusting for the correlations with Th2 cytokines. After adjusting for Th2 cytokines, IL-10 and IFN-γ were protective against atopy. Adjusted levels of IL-10 and IFN-γ stimulated with house-dust mite (HDM) were significantly lower in atopics than non-atopics, for IL-10 adjusting for IL-5 (P = 0.002), IL-13 (P = 0.012), IL-9 (P = 0.016), and IL-4 (P = 0.043), and for IFN-γ adjusting for IL-5 (P = 0.005), IL-13 (P = 0.005), and IL-9 (P = 0.037). IL-10 and IFN-γ levels stimulated with phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) and staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) exhibited a similar pattern. The adjusted levels of IL-10 and IFN-γ stimulated with HDM, PHA or SEB were all significantly negatively correlated with total serum IgE, except for IFN-γ stimulated with SEB. Levels of Th2 cytokines distort the associations of IL-10 and IFN-γ with allergic phenotypes. Removing the covariance with Th2 cytokines, both IL-10 and IFN-γ were protective against atopy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f8/7b/PMC3658504.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC280736", "abstract": "The pathology of humans, in contrast to that of inbred laboratory animals faces the challenge of diversity addressed in genetic terms as polymorphism. Thus, unsurprisingly, treatment modalities that successfully can be applied to carefully-selected pre-clinical models only sporadically succeed in the clinical arena. Indeed, pre-fabricated experimental models purposefully avoid the basic essence of human pathology: the uncontrollable complexity of disease heterogeneity and the intrinsic diversity of human beings. Far from pontificating on this obvious point, this review presents emerging evidence that the study of complex system such as the cytokine network is further complicated by inter-individual differences dictated by increasingly recognized polymorphisms. Polymorphism appears widespread among genes of the immune system possibly resulting from an evolutionary adaptation of the organism facing an ever evolving environment. We will refer to this high variability of immune-related genes as immune polymorphism. In this review we will briefly highlight the possible clinical relevance of immune polymorphism and suggest a change in the approach to the study of human pathology, from the targeted study of individual systems to a broader view of the organism as a whole through immunogenetic profiling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dc/82/PMC280736.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3668800", "abstract": "We report the case of a patient with an intramural hematoma of the esophagus. This rare condition is more common in elderly women and can be misdiagnosed as cardiovascular or other digestive emergent disease. The classical clinical triad includes chest pain, sudden dysphagia or odynophagia and minor hematemesis. Known precipitating factors are Valsalva maneuver, blunt, direct or iatrogenic injuries, but spontaneous cases have also been described. Chest imaging including computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging as well as upper gastrointestinal endoscopy are useful tools for diagnosis. The treatment is conservative and the prognosis usually excellent with complete resolution within a few weeks.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/00/crg-0006-0510.PMC3668800.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2831502", "abstract": "Hand hygiene is the most important measure to protect against the spread of nosocomial infections. With the development of in vitro und in vivo test methods for evaluation of the effect of hand hygiene, there has been a sharp increase over the past 50 years in the body of knowledge relating to effective methods for removal from the hands or killing and inactivation of pathogens. In 1958 the German Society of Hygiene and Microbiology (DGHM) published a first “Guidelines for Testing Chemical Disinfectants” and included only those hand disinfection products on its “List of Tested Chemical Disinfectants Found To Be Effective” that had been tested as per the methods cited in the guidelines. The American Society of Testing and Materials (today: ASTM International) was next, with the first test protocols for hand disinfection products, which in 1974 were adopted by the US Food and Drug Agency as “Guidelines” in a “Tentative Final Monograph” (TFM) and in 1994, having revised it to incorporate new insights, it was published once again.  Where the user is concerned, guidelines for hand disinfection containing information on indication and implementation are of course more important than methods dealing with efficacy testing of products. Such guidelines are compiled within the hospitals by the infection control teams set up during the 1970s. Written guidelines were also published by several healthcare institutions, scientific societies and associations. The guidelines formulated by the World Health Organisation (WHO), in an expert committee under the direction of Didier Pittet, proved to be the most successful of the attempts undertaken at global level to enhance hand hygiene. The most remarkable changes appear to be the efforts aimed at improving compliance among medical personnel and the increasing international acceptance of hand disinfection by using alcohols in the form of rubs; whether this will be with lotions or gels remains to be seen.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/e1/KHI-02-07.PMC2831502.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3715714", "abstract": "A 16-year-old female presented with dribbling of urine along with voluntary voiding since birth. Renal imaging revealed hydroureteronephrosis on the right side; the uterus and ovary were normal. A radionuclide scan showed a left nonfunctional kidney. On cystovaginoscopy, the urethra was shown to be normal and the urinary bladder was tubular with small capacity and an absent trigone. Although the vagina was capacious, no ureteric orifices were found. Computed tomography corroborated the diagnosis of bilateral, single ectopic ureters draining into a grossly dilated vagina. This case is unique because it is a bilateral single-system ureteral ectopia in a completely differentiated female genital tract that presented late in adolescence. To the best of our knowledge, this is the second such ureteral abnormality reported in the literature so far. The patient underwent ileocystoplasty with right ureteric reimplantation and nephroureterectomy for the left nonfunctional kidney, which histopathology showed to be tuberculosis. The patient is continent with cystometric capacity of more than 300 mL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/8c/kju-54-482.PMC3715714.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4807141", "abstract": "Background and Aims: All-oral interferon-free antivirals are highly effective in treating recurrent hepatitis C (HCV) infection in liver transplant (LT) recipients. The aim of the study was to assess immunosuppression needs after achieving a sustained viral response (SVR). Methods: We compared immunosuppression needs before and after achieving a SVR in adult LT recipients treated for recurrent HCV infection with all-oral direct acting agents. Results: We identified 52 liver LT treated recipients who achieved a SVR. The median (25th and 75th percentile interquartile range [IQR]) age was 62 years (57.75, 65). Most recipients received tacrolimus (TAC) for their immunosuppressant regimen. After achieving SVR, there was no statistically significant difference in daily dose of TAC unadjusted per weight (p > 0.05). However, there was a statistically significant decrease in daily dose of TAC adjusted per weight, serum levels of TAC, and the product of glomerular filtration rate and TAC. No statistically significant differences in cyclosporine unadjusted/adjusted per weight daily dose or serum levels were noted. Conclusions: Immunosuppression needs were increased for those patients treated with TAC but not cyclosporine. LT recipients prescribed TAC require close monitoring after treatment completion to avoid potential risk of acute rejection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/90/f6/JCTH-4-032.PMC4807141.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2893903", "abstract": "Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were fabricated by using well-crystallized ZnO nanocombs directly grown onto the fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) via noncatalytic thermal evaporation process. The thin films of as-grown ZnO nanocombs were used as photoanode materials to fabricate the DSSCs, which exhibited an overall light to electricity conversion efficiency of 0.68", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/63/95/PMC2893903.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3226033", "abstract": "Histone modifications are thought to control the regulation of genetic programs in normal physiology and cancer. Methylation (mono-, di-, and tri-methylation) on histone H3 lysine (K) 27 induces transcriptional repression, and thereby participates in controlling gene expression patterns. Enhancer of zeste (EZH) 2, a methyltransferase and component of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), plays an essential role in the epigenetic maintenance of the H3K27me3 repressive chromatin mark. Abnormal EZH2 expression has been associated with various cancers including breast cancer. Here, we discuss the contribution of EZH2 and the PRC2 complex in controlling the H3K27 methylation status and subsequent consequences on genomic instability and the cell cycle in breast cancer cells. We also discuss distinct molecular mechanisms used by EZH2 to suppress BRCA1 functions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c6/75/ijbsv08p0059.PMC3226033.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2755117", "abstract": "Infections still remain one of the most devastating complications in hip joint surgery. Classification of these infections help the orthopaedic surgeon to identify the acuteness or chronicity of the infection, predict the complexity of the treatment procedure and ensure that all necessary device are available at the time of the revision surgery. The present article reviews the actual literature and provides an overview of clinical, arthroscopic, microbiological and radiological staging systems.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/dd/ijmsv06p0227.PMC2755117.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4045295", "abstract": "Thai food is one of the healthiest foods. In fact, several Thai dishes, such as Tom Yum soup, are currently under scientific study for their incredible health benefits. Limited data are available on the effects of egg consumption with Thai food in hyperlipidemic patients. To assess the effects of daily egg consumption with Thai food, which is known as low fat diet, on serum lipids profiles in hyperlipidemic subjects without medication treatment, the randomized crossover trial of 71 hyperlipidemic adults (8 men, 63 women) were randomly to one of the two sequences of one and three eggs/day for 4 weeks. Each treatment was separated by a four-week washout period (egg-free). Our data indicated that one or three eggs/day consumption were significantly increases total serum cholesterol (221.54 ± 42.54 and 225.31 ± 45.06 versus 211.57 ± 39.98 mg/dL) and LDL-C levels (141.38 ± 38.23 and 145.48 ± 39.33 versus 133.44 ± 34.52 mg/dL) as compared to egg-free period. No significant change of serum TG, HDL-C, TC/HDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C levels was observed after 1 or 3 eggs consumption daily in this study.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/63/PMC4045295.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4110133", "abstract": " Background Intracranial dermoid cysts are rare tumors of congenital origin. We report a case of a large dermoid tumor arising in the infratemporal fossa (ITF) with erosion into the middle cranial fossa. After reviewing the literature, we believe this represents the first reported dermoid tumor of the ITF with extension into the middle cranial fossa.  Results A 21-year-old women presented with a large cystic mass involving the left infratemporal fossa and middle cranial fossa that was discovered following a motor vehicle collision. Neurologic examination was normal. The mass was resected through a frontotemporal extradural approach with endoscopic assistance. Imaging studies, gross findings, and histopathology were consistent with a dermoid tumor.  Conclusion This is the first report of a dermoid cyst arising in the ITF with extension into the middle cranial fossa. We suggest including dermoid tumor in the differential diagnosis of cystic abnormalities in this region. Complete resection of the cyst remains the preferred treatment with surgical approach guided by preoperative imaging.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ee/fd/PMC4110133.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5052825", "abstract": "Increased awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis and an emphasis on the importance of early treatment have helped to improve survival rates from this serious and frequent condition in recent years. With no specific, effective anti-sepsis therapies available, management focuses on early source control with adequate and appropriate antibiotics and removal of any source of infection, rapid resuscitation, hemodynamic stabilization and organ support. Use of dedicated teams to care for patients with sepsis can help optimize early management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/df/ceem-14-005.PMC5052825.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4131785", "abstract": "It has been reported that patients with progressive tuberculosis (TB) express abundant amounts of the antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) cathelicidin (LL-37) and human neutrophil peptide-1 (HNP-1) in circulating cells, whereas latent TB infected donors showed no differences when compared with purified protein derivative (PPD) and QuantiFERON®-TB Gold (QFT)-healthy individuals. The aim of this study was to determine whether LL-37 and HNP-1 production correlates with higher tuberculin skin test (TST) and QFT values in TB household contacts. Twenty-six TB household contact individuals between 26-58 years old TST and QFT positive with at last two years of latent TB infection were recruited. AMPs production by polymorphonuclear cells was determined by flow cytometry and correlation between TST and QFT values was analysed. Our results showed that there is a positive correlation between levels of HNP-1 and LL-37 production with reactivity to TST and/or QFT levels. This preliminary study suggests the potential use of the expression levels of these peptides as biomarkers for progression in latent infected individuals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ba/2d/0074-0276-mioc-109-03-00330.PMC4131785.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5381831", "abstract": "Hepatogastric fistula following a pyogenic liver abscess is extremely rare, and only a handful of cases have been reported. An 88-year-old female presented with generalized weakness, fever and chills. An abdominal computed tomography scan revealed a 5cm-sized hypodense lesion with internal septa in the left lateral section of the liver. Due to initial suspicion of early liver abscess, she was treated with empirical intravenous antibiotics. Initially, aspiration or drainage of the liver abscess was not performed due to immature lesion characteristics. An ultrasonography-guided percutaneous drainage of the liver abscess was performed 17 days after hospitalization due to a more mature lesion appearance on follow-up imaging. On tubography, contrast media leakage through the fistulous tract was visualized. Surgical management was performed, and she was discharged 2 weeks after surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6e/ab/cmh-2016-0029.PMC5381831.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3901981", "abstract": "Given the associations between obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD), we evaluated a related but less well-established association between waist circumference and brachial artery reactivity (BAR), a functional measurement of subclinical CVD, where lower levels indicate dysfunction. Regression models examined trends in mean BAR across waist circumference tertiles in police officers, a high-stress occupational group with increased risk for CVD. Mean BAR decreased across increasing waist tertiles among men, but not women, and this association was stronger among officers who consumed more alcohol. Larger waist circumference may be associated with lower BAR, providing an opportunity for intervention prior to disease development.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/91/c4/PMC3901981.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4717365", "abstract": "Objective The assessment of potentially confounding factors affecting colon microbiota composition is essential to the identification of robust microbiome based disease markers. Here, we investigate the link between gut microbiota variation and stool consistency using Bristol Stool Scale classification, which reflects faecal water content and activity, and is considered a proxy for intestinal colon transit time. Design Through 16S rDNA Illumina profiling of faecal samples of 53 healthy women, we evaluated associations between microbiome richness, Bacteroidetes:Firmicutes ratio, enterotypes, and genus abundance with self-reported, Bristol Stool Scale-based stool consistency. Each sample’s microbiota growth potential was calculated to test whether transit time acts as a selective force on gut bacterial growth rates. Results Stool consistency strongly correlates with all known major microbiome markers. It is negatively correlated with species richness, positively associated to the Bacteroidetes:Firmicutes ratio, and linked to Akkermansia and Methanobrevibacter abundance. Enterotypes are distinctly distributed over the BSS-scores. Based on the correlations between microbiota growth potential and stool consistency scores within both enterotypes, we hypothesise that accelerated transit contributes to colon ecosystem differentiation. While shorter transit times can be linked to increased abundance of fast growing species in Ruminococcaceae-Bacteroides samples, hinting to a washout avoidance strategy of faster replication, this trend is absent in Prevotella-enterotyped individuals. Within this enterotype adherence to host tissue therefore appears to be a more likely bacterial strategy to cope with washout. Conclusions The strength of the associations between stool consistency and species richness, enterotypes and community composition emphasises the crucial importance of stool consistency assessment in gut metagenome-wide association studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/ba/gutjnl-2015-309618.PMC4717365.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4668188", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study aimed to investigate the effect of ankle proprioceptive training on static body balance. [Subjects and Methods] In this randomized-controlled, single-blind study, 59 university students (35 females, 24 males) were randomized into study (n=29) and control (n=30) groups. The study group received a foot and ankle proprioceptive exercise program including stretching, strengthening (plantar and dorsi-flexors, invertor and evertor muscles), and balance board exercises, each with 10 repetitions per session, 5 days a week, for a total of 10 sessions. The control group did not receive any intervention. Static body balance was evaluated by a kinesthetic ability trainer, which showed the balance index scores under both single foot and both feet conditions. This evaluation was repeated at the end of two weeks for both groups. [Results] Outcome measures of the groups were similar at the baseline. Balance index scores of both groups improved at the end of two weeks, and the study group had significantly lower index scores than those of the control group, indicating better balance. [Conclusion] Ankle proprioceptive training had positive effects on static body balance parameters in healthy individuals, and it is worth investigating the effects of this type of training in patients with balance disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ef/db/jpts-27-3299.PMC4668188.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4206971", "abstract": "Objective Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is an emerging treatment modality for malignant spinal tumors. After SRS, some patients suffered from pain aggravation due to development of vertebral compression fracture (VCF). In these cases, surgery should be considered. Methods This study consisted of 72 patients who underwent SRS due to spinal tumors. In them, whether post-SRS VCF developed or not was investigated. We retrospectively analyzed their medical records and radiological imaging data. VCF was diagnosed with X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The incidence, time to development and risk factors for VCF were investigated. Age, sex, whole vertebral body involvement rate, vertebral body osteolysis rate, pre-SRS spinal deformity, spinal instability neoplastic score (SINS), spinal canal encroachment, lesion level, and radiation dose were analyzed as potential risk factors. A multi-variate logistic regression model was used for statistical analysis. Results In our study population, VCF was observed in 26 patients (36", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/0c/kjs-11-103.PMC4206971.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4908945", "abstract": "Mucormycosis is a rare infection caused by the ubiquitous filamentous fungi of the order Mucorales and class Zygomycetes. These species are vasotropic, causing rapid onset of tissue infarctions and necrosis and subsequent thrombosis by invading vascular bed. The disease spectrum ranges from involvement of skin, sinuses, lung, and brain to disseminated and mostly fatal infections, especially in immunocompromised hosts. Here, we present a case of a fatal disseminated mucormycosis in a 56-year-old female who had deceased donor renal allograft transplantation  2 weeks prior to presentation. She presented with shortness of breath and dry cough. Despite being on broad-spectrum antibiotics/antifungals and proper management by transplant, infectious disease, and primary team, she died within 3 weeks of admission. Autopsy showed disseminated mucormycosis of lungs and thyroid. Disseminated infection within 2 weeks of solid organ transplantation in this patient was one of the rare features of mucormycosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/b2/imcrj-9-139.PMC4908945.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3690742", "abstract": "A prime objective of welfare state activities is to take action to enhance population health and to decrease mortality risks. For several centuries, poverty has been seen as a key social risk factor in these respects. Consequently, the fight against poverty has historically been at the forefront of public health and social policy. The relationship between relative poverty rates and population health indicators is less self-evident, notwithstanding the obvious similarity to the debated topic of the relationship between population health and income inequality. In this study we undertake a comparative analysis of the relationship between relative poverty and mortality across 26 countries over time, with pooled cross-sectional time series analysis. We utilize data from the Luxembourg Income Study to construct age-specific poverty rates across countries and time covering the period from around 1980 to 2005, merged with data on age- and gender-specific mortality data from the Human Mortality Database. Our results suggest not only an impact of relative poverty but also clear differences by welfare regime that partly goes beyond the well-known differences in poverty rates between welfare regimes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/85/PMC3690742.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3118783", "abstract": "Background Assessment of health related quality of life (HRQL) has become central to assessing the self-perceived impact of physical and mental impairment on patient's health. Studies have reported a high rate of psychological disturbances among asthmatics; however, the impact of these psychological factors on HRQL remains unexplored. Objectives To assess the health related quality of life among a sample of asthmatics and to identify the psychological and clinical variables that affect quality of life among asthmatics. Method A total of 81 patients attending the clinic were assessed using the Mini-Asthma Quality of Life questionnaire (Mini-AQLQ), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Sociodemographic and clinical variables were also obtained from the patients, the lung function was assessed using Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR). Results Mean age of all the patients was 35.22 (SD±14.36) with a mean duration of asthma symptoms of 17.5 (SD±14.4) years. Mean peak expiratory flow was 336 l/min (SD±74.12). Anxiety was present in 44.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/78/LJM-6-5846.PMC3118783.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2546480", "abstract": "Osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of disability in the elderly. The changes in the lubricating properties of synovial fluid lead to significant pain and loss of function. More than ten years have passed from the first studies. Up till now many authors have supported intra-articular hyaluronan (HA) therapy as not only a symptom-modifying therapy but also a treatment which may significantly decrease the rate of deterioration of joint structure. In this review we report data relative to knee and hip treatment. The ongoing studies continue to further our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms that likely underlie the therapeutic benefits of this treatment but, despite recent progress, many unresolved issues require further study. Large scale double blind controlled studies must be carried out to confirm these promising data and produce meaningful guidelines.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/b2/PMC2546480.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4579687", "abstract": "The assessment of the body fluid status is one the most challenging tasks in clinical practice. Although there are many methods to assess the body fluid status of patients, none of them is fully satisfactory in contemporary medical sciences. In the article below, we compare the results of measurements performed by experienced and inexperienced examiners based on the inferior vena cava/aorta diameter index in a sonographic hydration assessment. The study enrolled 50 young students at the age of 19–26 (the median age was 22.95) including 27 women and 23 men. The volunteers were examined in the supine position with GE Logiq 7 system and a convex transducer with the frequency of 2–5 MHz. The measurements were performed in the longitudinal and transverse planes by two inexperienced examiners – the authors of this paper, following a four-hour training conducted by an experienced sonographer. The longitudinal values of the inferior vena cava/aorta diameter index obtained in this study were similar to those found in the literature. The reference value for the inferior vena cava/aorta index determined by Kosiak et al., which constituted 1.2 ± 2 SD, for SD = 0.17, was similar to the values obtained by the authors of this paper which equaled 1.2286 ± 2 SD, for SD = 0.2. The article presented below proves that measuring the inferior vena cava/aorta diameter index is not a complex examination and it may be performed by physicians with no sonographic experience. Furthermore, the paper demonstrates that the inferior vena cava/aorta diameter index measured in the transverse plane is similar to the inferior vena cava/aorta diameter index determined in the longitudinal plane. Thus, both measurements may be used interchangeably to assess the hydration status of patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/74/a0/PMC4579687.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3407631", "abstract": " Purpose. To perform an overview about the role of positron emission tomography (PET) or PET/computed tomography (PET/CT) using different radiopharmaceuticals in recurrent medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) based on biochemical findings (increased tumor marker levels after primary surgery). Methods. A comprehensive literature search of studies published in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Embase databases through February 2012 regarding PET or PET/CT in patients with recurrent MTC was performed. Results. Twenty-nine studies comprising 714 patients with suspected recurrent MTC were retrieved. Twenty-seven articles evaluated the role of fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET or PET/CT in recurrent MTC with conflicting results. Diagnostic accuracy of FDG-PET and PET/CT increased in MTC patients with higher calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen values, suggesting that these imaging methods could be very useful in patients with more advanced and aggressive disease. Eight articles evaluated the role of fluorine-18-dihydroxyphenylalanine (FDOPA) PET or PET/CT in recurrent MTC reporting promising results. Overall, FDOPA seems to be superior but complementary compared to FDG in detecting recurrent MTC. Few studies evaluating other PET tracers are also discussed. Conclusions. PET radiopharmaceuticals reflect different metabolic pathways in MTC. FDOPA seems to be the most useful PET tracer in detecting recurrent MTC based on rising levels of tumor markers. FDG may complement FDOPA in patients with more aggressive MTC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/9d/PMC3407631.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3303918", "abstract": "PURPOSE The aim of this in-vitro investigation was to describe the effect of reinforcement with different fibers on impact strength of heat polymerized polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base resin and to analyze the effect of surface treatment of the fibers on the impact strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS The specimens were fabricated from the dies formed as per standard ASTM D4812. 2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/46/59/jap-4-30.PMC3303918.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4476223", "abstract": " Background: Epidemiological changes leading to chronic diseases are becoming more important day by day. Hypertension is also known as a chronic disease. Worldwide prevalence of hypertension have caused serious complications. The disease has become a health problem in all communities. This research aims at analyze the correlation between compliance with the treatment regimen and health locus of control in hypertension patients.   Methods: In this study, 130 patients diagnosed with high blood pressure have been included using convenience sampling. Information has been gathered including demographic data, compliance with the treatment regimen and health locus of control. The patient's blood pressure was measured twice and the mean was compared with the first blood pressure recorded in medical records. Data were analyzed using SPSS 17.   Results: The results showed that there is a direct correlation between the adherence to the treatment regimen with internal health locus of control. In patients with internal health locus of control, better compliance with treatment regimen was detected.   Conclusion: Health locus of control is associated with treatment regimen. Considering health locus control can help nurses and managers in their health programs and also can motivate patients to participate in their self-care and improve patients care quality. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/54/ce/MJIRI-29-194.PMC4476223.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4341192", "abstract": "PURPOSE To assess function by identifying changes in swallowing and masticatory performance in maxillary obturator prosthesis wearers. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty subjects were recruited for the study, of which 20 were obturator wearers, 20 were completely dentulous and 20 had removable partial/complete dentures with similar Eichner's Index. Swallowing ability was evaluated with and without obturator using the \"Water Drinking Test\"; Masticatory performance was evaluated with the Sieve test; and maximum occlusal force was recorded with the help of a digital bite sensor. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science version 15.0 with a confidence level at 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/49/9d/jap-7-8.PMC4341192.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5214915", "abstract": "Hyperglycemia is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. It has been demonstrated that chronic exposure to high glucose impaired endothelial functions. However, specific effects of short-term exposure to high glucose on vascular reactivity are controversial. Moreover, the combined effects of other metabolic substrates such as free fatty acids (FFA) on vascular reactivity remain poorly understood. Here we investigate the effects of short-term exposure to high glucose with or without other metabolic substrates including FFAs termed “nutrition full” (NF) solution, on mesenteric (MA) and deep femoral arteries (DFA) of rats. Arterial ring segments were mounted in a double-wire myograph. Contraction in response to phenylephrine (PhE) was determined in control (5 mM) and high glucose (23 mM, HG) environments over a 30 min period. In both arteries, PhE-inducedvasocontraction was enhanced by pre-incubation of HG solution. A combined incubation with HG and palmitic acid (100 µM) induced similar sensitization of PhE-contractions in both arteries. In contrast, high K+-induced contractions were not affected by HG. Interestingly, pre-incubation with NF solution decreased PhE-induced contraction in MA but increased the contraction in DFA. In NF solution, the HG-induced facilitation of PhE-contraction was not observed in MA. Furthermore, the PhE-induced contraction of DFA was attenuated by HG in NF solution. Our results demonstrate that the sensitization of PhE-induced arterial contraction by HG is differentially affected by other metabolic substrates. The conversation of skeletal arterial contractility by HG in NF solution requires careful interpretation of the previous in vitro studies where only glucose is included in physiological salt solutions. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanism underlying the inconsistent effect of NF solution on MA and DFA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e9/6f/kjpp-21-91.PMC5214915.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3368362", "abstract": " Objective. To evaluate whether the length of time of rupture of membranes (ROM) in optimally managed HIV-positive women on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) with low viral loads (VL) is predictive of the risk of mother to child transmission (MTCT) of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Study Methods. A retrospective case series of all HIV-positive women who delivered at two academic tertiary centers in Toronto, Canada from January 2000 to November 2010 was completed. Results. Two hundred and ten HIV-positive women with viral loads <1,000 copies/ml delivered during the study period. VL was undetectable (<50 copies/mL) for the majority of the women (167, 80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/15/5c/PMC3368362.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3865936", "abstract": "This article aims to explain why the notion of mania puerperalis, or puerperal insanity, was not used in the Netherlands to exonerate women accused of infanticide, in contrast to other countries. It applies the concept of ‘travelling knowledge’ as an approach to the history of forensic medicine, pointing to the fields of medicine and law as contact zones inviting, promoting or barring the transmission of knowledge. Although the notion of mania puerperalis was known in the Netherlands from 1822 on, psychiatric expertise was not requested in actual court cases of infanticide for several reasons. First, physicians and legal scholars continued to doubt the existence of this form of mania. Moreover, it was not always directly connected to infanticide. Also, the specific formulation of the law strongly determined what medical evidence was needed in court cases. Not only did the Code Pénal generally emphasise material evidence, the laws on infanticide specifically mentioned fear and therefore an additional reference to the mental condition of the accused was not needed. Most importantly, the article argues that the existing vocabulary on emotion, both vernacular and medical, already allowed for an analysis of psychic components.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/8f/PMC3865936.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2671766", "abstract": "Objectives Our goal was to determine the effectiveness of using the auditory steady state response (ASSR) as a measure of hearing thresholds in infants who are suspected of having significant hearing loss, as compared with using the click-auditory brainstem response (C-ABR). Methods We retrospectively analyzed the audiologic profiles of 76 infants (46 boys and 30 girls, a total of 151 ears) who ranged in age from 1 to 12 months (average age: 5.7 months). The auditory evaluations in 76 infants who were suspected of having hearing loss were done via the C-ABR and ASSR. In addition, for reference, the mean ASSR thresholds were compared to those of 39 ears of infants and 39 ears of adults with normal hearing at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz. Results The highest correlation between the C-ABR and ASSR thresholds was observed at an average of 2-4 kHz (r=0.94). On comparison between the hearing of infants and adults at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz, the mean ASSR threshold in infants was 12, 7, 8, and 7 dB higher, respectively, than that in adults. Conclusion ASSR testing may provide additional audiometric information for accurately predicting the hearing sensitivity, and this is essential for the management of infants with severe to profound hearing loss.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/ab/ceo-1-184.PMC2671766.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5344096", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate mouthpiece ventilation (MPV) in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) who are noncompliant with noninvasive ventilation (NIV).  Methods: We evaluated four young patients with DMD who had previously refused to undergo NIV. Each patient was reassessed and encouraged to try MPV.  Results: The four patients tolerated MPV well and were compliant with NIV at home. MPV proved to be preferable and more comfortable than NIV with any other type of interface. Two of the patients required overnight NIV and eventually agreed to use a nasal mask during the night.  Conclusions: The advantages of MPV over other types of NIV include fewer speech problems, better appearance, and less impact on the patient, eliminating the risk of skin breakdown, gastric distension, conjunctivitis, and claustrophobia. The use of a mouthpiece interface should be always considered in patients with DMD who need to start NIV, in order to promote a positive approach and a rapid acceptance of NIV. Using MPV during the daytime makes patients feel safe and more likely to use NIV at night. In addition, MPV increases treatment compliance for those who refuse to use other types of interfaces. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/de/1a/1806-3713-jbpneu-42-06-00453.PMC5344096.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3626320", "abstract": " Introduction. Epidemiological studies on medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) have shown that neither a change in stage at diagnosis nor improvement in survival has occurred during the past 30 years. In patients with detectable serum calcitonin and no clinically apparent disease, a careful search for local recurrence, and nodal or distant metastases, should be performed. Conventional imaging modalities will not show any disease until basal serum calcitonin is at least 150 pg/mL. The objective of the study was to present the first experience with labelled glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue [Lys40(Ahx-HYNIC-99mTc/EDDA)NH2]-exendin-4 in the visualisation of MTC in humans. Material and Method. Four patients aged 22–74 years (two with sporadic and two with MEN2 syndrome-related disseminated MTC) were enrolled in the study. In all patients, GLP-1 receptor imaging was performed. Results. High-quality images were obtained in all patients. All previously known MTC lesions have been confirmed in GLP-1 scintigraphy. Moreover, one additional liver lesion was detected in sporadic MTC male patient. Conclusions. GLP-1 receptor imaging with [Lys40(Ahx-HYNIC-99mTc/EDDA)NH2]-exendin-4 is able to detect MTC lesions. GLP-1 scintigraphy can serve as a confirmatory test in MTC patients, in whom other imaging procedures are inconsistent.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0d/51/PMC3626320.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4762509", "abstract": "On too many occasions researchers conduct public health and/or epidemiological studies in low-income countries without the appropriate in-country ethical approval. This article reflects on some of the underlying reasons for not applying for ethical approval. The piece concludes that we need to start by educating our (junior) researchers and research students about the importance of research ethics. We conclude with a number of recommendations for researchers, scientific journal editors and reviewers and ethical committees in high-income countries to bring the message home to researchers that ethical approval should be sought in low-income countries if and when required!", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b4/22/nje-05-511.PMC4762509.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5444256", "abstract": "Abstract  Background: Injury morbidity data are collected through hospital-based surveillance in many countries. We assessed the extent of non-fatal injures treated outside a hospital. Methods: Data from the first provincial health household interview survey of Hunan, China, conducted in 2013, were used. Injury events were identified and included as medically significant when any of the following circumstances occurred in the prior 14 days: (i) receiving medical treatment from a doctor at a hospital following an injury; (ii) receiving medical treatment by self or others outside a hospital following an injury (e.g. taking medications, or receiving massage or hot compress); and/or (iii) being off work or school, or in bed for more than 1 day, following an injury. The 2-week prevalence of non-fatal injuries and 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4d/b0/ckw114.PMC5444256.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4694664", "abstract": "Four percent articaine local anesthetic has been successfully used to attain local anesthesia for dental procedures. Mandibular block anesthesia may consume longer time to attain and have a higher failure of local anesthesia compared to infiltration. Mandibular facial infiltration has been reported to successfully attain effective local anesthesia for dental procedures. This study involved only several tooth sites and found that 1.8 cc of 4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/f3/lra-9-001.PMC4694664.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3903807", "abstract": "Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is one of the most difficult pain syndromes to treat. Invasive treatments may be considered when patients fail to obtain adequate pain relief from noninvasive treatment approaches. Here, we present three cases of PHN in the mandibular branch treated with ultrasound-assisted mental nerve block and pulsed radiofrequency treatment. None of the patients had adequate pain relief from the medical therapy, so we performed the mental nerve block on the affected side under ultrasound assistance. Two patients showed satisfactory pain relief continuously over 12 months without any further interventions, whereas one patient only had short-term pain relief. For the patient had short-term pain relief we performed pulsed radiofrequency treatment (PRFT) on the left mental nerve under ultrasound assistance. After PRFT, the patient had adequate pain relief for 6 months and there was no need for further management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/71/kjpain-27-81.PMC3903807.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2655652", "abstract": "To develop and evaluate new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of human cancers, well-characterised preclinical model systems are a prerequisite. To this aim, we have established xenotransplantation mouse models and corresponding cell cultures from surgically obtained secondary human liver tumours. Established xenograft tumours were patho- and immunohistologically characterised, and expression levels of cancer-relevant genes were quantified in paired original and xenograft tumours and the derivative cell cultures applying RT-PCR-based array technology. Most of the characteristic morphological and immunohistochemical features of the original tumours were shown to be maintained. No differences were found concerning expression of genes involved in cell cycle regulation and oncogenesis. Interestingly, cytokine and matrix metalloproteinase encoding genes appeared to be expressed differentially. Thus, the established models are closely reflecting pathohistological and molecular characteristics of the selected human tumours and may therefore provide useful tools for preclinical analyses of new antitumour strategies in vivo.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ea/1b/PMC2655652.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4689981", "abstract": "High-salt has been shown to play a role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease. In this study, we investigated the effect of high-salt on the production of inflammatory mediators by ARPE-19 cells and the possible mechanisms involved. ARPE-19 cells were cultured with LPS in DMEM to which extra NaCl had been added (20 mM and 40 mM). NaCl had no influence on the apoptosis and proliferation of ARPE-19. Addition of 40 mM NaCl significantly induced IL-6 and MCP-1 production but had no effect on IL-8 secretion. High mannitol, as an osmotic stress control, did not affect the secretion of inflammatory mediators by ARPE-19 cells indicating that the effect was not mediated by osmolarity. Coculture of ARPE-19 cells with NaCl resulted in significant increases in the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, Akt, and NF-κB and an upregulation of the transcription factors NFAT5 and SGK1. High-salt significantly promotes IL-6 and MCP-1 production by ARPE-19 cells and is associated with activation of the p38 MAPK, Akt, and NF-κB pathway and NFAT-SGK1 pathways.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/df/f6/PMC4689981.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3159019", "abstract": "High incidence of HCC is mostly due to the combination of two major risk factors, chronic infection with hepatitis B (HBV) and/or C (HCV) viruses and exposure to the mycotoxin aflatoxin B1, which induces a particular mutation at codon 249 in TP53 (R249S). Eight genotypes of HBV are diversely found in high and low incidence areas. Regardless of documented strong associations between TP53 R249S mutation and HBV genotypes B, C, A or E, there is no report of such association for genotype D despite of the presence of aflatoxin in areas with high prevalence of HBV genotype D. In Iran, 3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/44/8e/PMC3159019.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2893840", "abstract": "A new method for preparing magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles coated by organic dye-doped silica shell was developed in this article. Iron oxide nanoparticles were first coated with dye-impregnated silica shell by the hydrolysis of hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HTMOS) which produced a hydrophobic core for the entrapment of organic dye molecules. Then, the particles were coated with a hydrophilic shell by the hydrolysis of tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS), which enabled water dispersal of the resulting nanoparticles. The final product was characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, and vibration sample magnetometer. All the characterization results proved the final samples possessed magnetic and fluorescent properties simultaneously. And this new multifunctional nanomaterial possessed high photostability and minimal dye leakage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/45/PMC2893840.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2808973", "abstract": "MINT (http://mint.bio.uniroma2.it/mint) is a public repository for molecular interactions reported in peer-reviewed journals. Since its last report, MINT has grown considerably in size and evolved in scope to meet the requirements of its users. The main changes include a more precise definition of the curation policy and the development of an enhanced and user-friendly interface to facilitate the analysis of the ever-growing interaction dataset. MINT has adopted the PSI-MI standards for the annotation and for the representation of molecular interactions and is a member of the IMEx consortium.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/7f/gkp983.PMC2808973.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4963559", "abstract": "We work on the assumption that four major specialities or sectors of medical laboratory assays, comprising clinical chemistry, haematology, immunology, and microbiology, embraced by genome sequencing techniques, are routinely in use. Medical laboratory markers for inflammation serve as model: they are allotted to most fields of medical lab assays including genomics. Incessant coding of assays aligns each of them in the long lists of big data. As exemplified with the complement gene family, containing C2, C3, C8A, C8B, CFH, CFI, and ITGB2, heritability patterns/risk factors associated with diseases with genetic glitch of complement components are unfolding. The C4 component serum levels depend on sufficient vitamin D whilst low vitamin D is inversely related to IgG1, IgA, and C3 linking vitamin sufficiency to innate immunity. Whole genome sequencing of microbial organisms may distinguish virulent from nonvirulent and antibiotic resistant from nonresistant varieties of the same species and thus can be listed in personal big data banks including microbiological pathology; the big data warehouse continues to grow.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/11/PMC4963559.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3263554", "abstract": " Objective. To obtain a psychosocial profile of patients with poststroke fatigue (PSF), which could aid in optimizing treatment strategies. Methods. Eighty-eight outpatients with severe PSF measured with the Checklist Individual Strength-fatigue subscale (CIS-f) and the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) were selected. Depression and anxiety, psychological distress, coping, social support, and self-efficacy of this group were compared to reference groups of healthy controls and patients with other chronic diseases. Associations between psychosocial characteristics and fatigue were calculated. Results. Compared to healthy controls, patients with PSF reported more psychological distress, less problem-focused coping, and more positive social support. Minor or no differences were found in comparison with other chronic patients. The CIS-f correlated with somatic complaints and the FSS with cognitive complaints. Conclusion. Patients with PSF show a psychosocial profile comparable to patients with other chronic disease. Implications for diagnosis and treatment are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/d0/PMC3263554.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3974313", "abstract": "The presence of enteric viruses in biosolids can be underestimated due to the inefficient methods (mainly molecular methods) used to recover the viruses from these matrices. Therefore, the goal of this study was to evaluate the different methods used to recover adenoviruses (AdV), rotavirus species A (RVA), norovirus genogroup II (NoV GII) and the hepatitis A virus (HAV) from biosolid samples at a large urban wastewater treatment plant in Brazil after they had been treated by mesophilic anaerobic digestion. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for spiking experiments to compare the detection limits of feasible methods, such as beef extract elution and ultracentrifugation. Tests were performed to detect the inhibition levels and the bacteriophage PP7 was used as an internal control. The results showed that the inhibitors affected the efficiency of the PCR reaction and that beef extract elution is a suitable method for detecting enteric viruses, mainly AdV from biosolid samples. All of the viral groups were detected in the biosolid samples: AdV (90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d4/0e/0074-0276-mioc-108-01-0077.PMC3974313.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3262319", "abstract": "Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a clinical disorder characterized by a deficiency of C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH). HAE has traditionally been divided into two subtypes. Unique among the inherited deficiencies of the complement system, HAE Types I and II are inherited as an autosomal dominant disorder. The generation of an HAE attack is caused by the depletion and/or consumption of C1-inhibitor manifested as subcutaneous or submucosal edema of the upper airway, face, extremities, or gastrointestinal tract. Attacks can be severe and potentially life-threatening, particularly with laryngeal involvement. Despite the availability of C1-INH for the treatment of HAE since the 1980s in Europe and other countries, HAE treatment in the United States was limited to androgen therapy. The human plasma-derived C1 esterase inhibitor (Cinryze™), distributed by Lev Pharmaceuticals, was approved in October 2008 for the prevention of HAE attacks based on the results of a phase III clinical trial. This review aims to describe the history of C1-INH replacement in HAE as well as the pharmacology, efficacy and safety of C1-INH, concentrating on Cinryze as the first approved chronic replacement treatment for the prophylaxis of HAE attacks.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/9a/PMC3262319.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4349533", "abstract": "The effects of various selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors on carbachol (CCh)-induced contraction in the bovine abomasum were investigated. Various selective PDE inhibitors, vinpocetine (type 1), erythro-9-(2-hydroxy-3-nonyl) adenine (EHNA, type 2), milrinone (type 3), Ro20-1724 (type 4), vardenafil (type 5), BRL-50481 (type 7) and BAY73-6691 (type 9), inhibited CCh-induced contractions in a concentration-dependent manner. Among the PDE inhibitors, Ro20-1724 and vardenafil induced more relaxation than the other inhibitors based on the data for the IC50 or maximum relaxation. In smooth muscle of the bovine abomasum, we showed the expression of PDE4B, 4C, 4D and 5 by RT-PCR analysis. In the presence of CCh, Ro20-1724 increased the cAMP content, but not the cGMP content. By contrast, vardenafil increased the cGMP content, but not the cAMP content. These results suggest that Ro20-1724-induced relaxation was correlated with cAMP and that vardenafil-induced relaxation was correlated with cGMP in the bovine abomasum. In conclusion, PDE4 and PDE5 are the enzymes involved in regulation of the relaxation associated with cAMP and cGMP, respectively, in the bovine abomasum.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/05/jvms-77-015.PMC4349533.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3130493", "abstract": "Abstract We describe the case of a male patient who presented with anisocoria, and was initially diagnosed with an acute Adie's tonic pupil. On subsequent laboratory testing, he was found to have neurosyphilis. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated enhancement of the right oculomotor nerve. This case underscores the importance of considering this diagnosis in patients with acute onset internal ophthalmoplegia and hypersensitivity to dilute pilocarpine, even in the absence of other oculomotor nerve findings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7a/cd/cop0002-0205.PMC3130493.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC138848", "abstract": "The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe are as different from each other as either is from animals: their ancestors separated about 420 to 330 million years ago. Now that S. pombe is poised to join the post-genome era, its evolutionary position should become much clearer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/87/d0/PMC138848.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4651992", "abstract": "Objective The goal of this study was to assess the effect of high-dose simvastatin on cerebral vasospasm and its clinical outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in Korean patients. Methods This study was designed as a prospective observational cohort study. Its subjects were aneurysmal SAH patients who had undergone aneurysm clipping or coiling. They were assigned to 1 of 3 groups : the 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg simvastatin groups. The primary end-point was the occurrence of symptomatic vasospasm. The clinical outcome was assessed with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score after 1 month and 3 months. The risk factors of the development of vasospasm were assessed by logistic regression analysis. Results Ninety nine patients with aneurysmal SAH were treated and screened. They were sequentially assigned to the 20 mg (n=22), 40 mg (n=34), and 80 mg (n=31) simvastatin groups. Symptomatic vasospasm occurred in 36.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/39/jkns-58-328.PMC4651992.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3936566", "abstract": "Otologists and audiologists care for patients and conduct clinical research to find more effective treatments that benefit patients. Institutional Review Board (IRB) permission is necessary for conducting clinical trials on humans. Furthermore, many bioethical conflicts are encountered while conducting research. However, few otologists and audiologists in Korea know bioethics and the principles and regulations of IRBs in detail. This paper reviews the history of ethics in clinical research and current bioethical principles and IRB regulations. We outline what you need as otologists or audiologists to get IRB approval while considering the principles of bioethics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/ef/kja-16-43.PMC3936566.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3246751", "abstract": "Nursing education programs may face significant difficulty as they struggle to prepare sufficient numbers of advanced practice registered nurses to fulfill the vision of helping to design an improved US healthcare system as described in the Institute of Medicine's “Future of nursing” report. This paper describes specific challenges and provides strategies to improve advanced practice nursing clinical education in order to ensure that a sufficient number of APRNs are available to work in educational, practice, and research settings. Best practices are identified through a review of classic and current nursing literature. Strategies include intensive interprofessional collaborations and radical curriculum revisions such as increased use of simulation and domestic and international service work. Nurse educators must work with all stakeholders to create effective and lasting change.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/77/93/PMC3246751.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3157868", "abstract": "The function of mitochondria in generation of cellular ATP in the process of oxidative phosphorylation is widely recognised. During the past decades there have been significant advances in our understanding of the functions of mitochondria other than the generation of energy. These include their role in apoptosis, acting as signalling organelles, mammalian development and ageing as well as their contribution to the coordination between cell metabolism and cell proliferation. Our understanding of biological processes modulated by mitochondria is based on robust methods for isolation and handling of intact mitochondria from tissues of the laboratory animals. Mitochondria from rat heart is one of the most common preparations for past and current studies of cellular metabolism including studies on knock-out animals. Here we describe a detailed rapid method for isolation of intact mitochondria with a high degree of coupling. Such preparation of rat heart mitochondria is an excellent object for functional and structural research on cellular bioenergetics, transport of biomolecules, proteomic studies and analysis of mitochondrial DNA, proteins and lipids.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/39/jove-43-2202.PMC3157868.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4476427", "abstract": "Background The purpose of this study was to determine and compare the test-retest reliability of quadriceps isokinetic endurance testing at two knee angular velocities in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods After one familiarization session, 14 patients with moderate to severe COPD (mean age 65±4 years; forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) 55", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/d0/copd-10-1163.PMC4476427.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3227510", "abstract": "The majority of dental carie studies over the course of historical period underline mainly the prevalence evolution, the role of carbohydrates consumption and the impact of access to dietary resources. The purpose of the present investigation was to compare population samples from two archaeological periods the Chacolithic and Middle Age taking into account the geographical and socio economical situation. The study concerned four archaelogical sites in south west France and population samples an inlander for the Chalcolithic Age, an inlander, an costal and urban for the Middle Age. The materials studied included a total of 127 maxillaries, 103 mandibles and 3316 teeth. Data recorded allowed us to display that the Chalcolithic population sample had the lowest carie percentage and the rural inlander population samples of Middle Age the highest; in all cases molars were teeth most often affected. These ones differences could be explained according to time period, carious lesions were usually less recorded in the Chalcolithic Age than the Middle because of a lesser cultivation of cereals like in les Treilles Chacolithic population sample. In the Middle Age population samples, the rural inland sample Marsan showed the highest frequency of caries and ate more cereal than the coastal Vilarnau and the poor urban St Michel population samples, the first one ate fish and Mediterranean vegetal and fruits and the second one met difficulties to food access, in both cases the consumption of carbohydrates was lesser than Marsan population sample who lived in a geographical land convice to cereals cultivation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/22/88/PMC3227510.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3013783", "abstract": "ParameciumDB is a community model organism database built with the GMOD toolkit to integrate the genome and biology of the ciliate Paramecium tetraurelia. Over the last four years, post-genomic data from proteome and transcriptome studies has been incorporated along with predicted orthologs in 33 species, annotations from the community and publications from the scientific literature. Available tools include BioMart for complex queries, GBrowse2 for genome browsing, the Apollo genome editor for expert curation of gene models, a Blast server, a motif finder, and a wiki for protocols, nomenclature guidelines and other documentation. In-house tools have been developed for ontology browsing and evaluation of off-target RNAi matches. Now ready for next-generation deep sequencing data and the genomes of other Paramecium species, this open-access resource is available at http://paramecium.cgm.cnrs-gif.fr.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/ff/gkq918.PMC3013783.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4448075", "abstract": "We report on the case of 5-year-old girl with severe tricuspid regurgitation following previous repair of double outlet right ventricle with subaortic ventricular septal defect, performed through trans-atrial approach using detachment of tricuspid valve leaflet. The severe tricuspid regurgitation was found to be due to dehiscence at the site of the previous detachment and was repaired using a pericardial patch. In this report, we discuss the relative merits and risks of using this technique.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8e/a8/PMC4448075.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4798843", "abstract": "A 72-year-old woman presented with symptomatic anemia without abdominal symptoms. She had no history of abdominal surgery or use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen revealed swelling of multiple intraperitoneal lymph nodes and a high density of mesenteric adipose tissue. Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG-) positron emission tomography showed high FDG accumulation at the intraperitoneal lymph nodes. Double-balloon enteroscopy detected severe stenosis with an annular ulcer in the lower ileum. She was diagnosed with ileal follicular lymphoma based on histologic examination and fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis of the biopsy specimen. The ileal ulcer was successfully treated by chemotherapy with rituximab and bendamustine for 1 year. We strongly recommend consideration of gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma in the differential diagnosis of annular ulcers in the small intestine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/02/8f/PMC4798843.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3713563", "abstract": "Orbital emphysema is usually caused by trauma and fracture of an orbital bone, allowing air to pass from the sinuses into the orbit. Orbital emphysema without any significant trauma is rare. We present a case of a 67-year-old-woman who complained of left exophthalmos without any history of trauma, sneezing, or sinus surgery. Computed tomography scanning showed left orbital emphysema protruding the eyeball forward. The left frontal sinus was remarkably enlarged associated with a partial defect of the orbital roof, allowing air entry into the orbit. In addition, the frontal sinus ostium was occluded with the mucocele that served as a one-way valve between the frontal and the ethmoidal sinuses. We performed frontal craniotomy and removed the mucocele and the inner table of frontal bone to communicate the frontal sinus with the nasal cavity. After operation, her exophthalmos was improved.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b8/dc/PMC3713563.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4105386", "abstract": "Non-traumatic, spontaneous urinary bladder rupture is a rare complication of urethral stricture. Furthermore, its symptoms are often nonspecific, and misdiagnosis is common. The authors experienced a case of urethral stricture with spontaneous bladder rupture and bilateral hydronephrosis, mimicking obstructive uropathy attributed to cancer metastasis. A 55-year-old woman was admitted with abdominal pain and distension, oliguria, and an elevated serum creatinine level. She had undergone radical hysterectomy for uterine cervical cancer and received post-operative concurrent chemoradiation therapy 13 years previously. Non-contrast enhanced computed tomography showed massive ascites and bilateral hydronephrosis. The initial diagnosis was acute kidney injury due to obstructive uropathy caused by malignant disease. After improvement of her renal function by bilateral percutaneous nephrostomy catheterization, contrast-enhanced computed tomography and a cytologic examination of ascites showed no evidence of malignancy. However, during retrograde pyelography, a severe urethral stricture was found, and subsequent cystography showed leakage of contrast into the peritoneal cavity and cystoscopy revealed a defect of the posterior bladder wall. After urethral dilatation and primary closure of the bladder wall, acute kidney injury and ascites were resolved.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9d/b8/ebp-12-26.PMC4105386.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2999736", "abstract": "We report the case of a 52-year-old woman with advanced colorectal cancer who was treated with oxaliplatin on a FOLFOX schedule. After 3 cycles of chemotherapy, she started to complain of visual loss, altered color vision and neurological symptoms. Due to the suspicion of ocular and neurological toxicity, antineoplastic treatment was stopped. Her visual field showed a concentric bilateral scotoma and the electrooculogram test revealed severe impairment of the retinal pigment epithelium. Visual acuity, color vision and visual field recovered completely 8 months later, although electrooculogram remained abnormal. Ocular toxicity has been reported as an infrequent adverse event of oxaliplatin. Findings in this case indicate toxicity of this chemotherapeutic agent on the retinal pigment epithelium, which has not been reported before. This damage could be permanent, and it thus differs from previously described oxaliplatin-induced ocular toxicities, which are usually transient and reversible. With increasing use of oxaliplatin as first-line treatment in advanced colorectal cancer, we have to be aware of this possible toxicity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/54/d6/cro0003-0423.PMC2999736.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3296175", "abstract": "Caries and obesity are two common conditions affecting children in the United States and other developed countries. Caries in the teeth of susceptible children have often been associated with frequent ingestion of fermentable sugars such as sucrose, fructose, glucose, and maltose. Increased calorie intake associated with sugars and carbohydrates, especially when associated with physical inactivity, has been implicated in childhood obesity. Fortunately, nonnutritive artificial alternatives and non-/low-caloric natural sugars have been developed as alternatives to fermentable sugars and have shown promise in partially addressing these health issues. Diet counseling is an important adjunct to oral health instruction. Although there are only five artificial sweeteners that have been approved as food additives by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are additional five non-/low caloric sweeteners that have FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) designation. Given the health impact of sugars and other carbohydrates, dental professionals should be aware of the nonnutritive non-/low caloric sweeteners available on the market and both their benefits and potential risks. Dental health professionals should also be proactive in helping identify patients at risk for obesity and provide counseling and referral when appropriate.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c6/e4/PMC3296175.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4591496", "abstract": "Inflammatory pseudotumors (IPT) are rare tumors that occur in various organs and tissues. The clinical picture varies from the more frequent benign lesions to rare malignant tumors with distant metastases. IPTs associated with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is rarely reported. In this article, we review the reports of IPT after HSCT. We also review the possible factors involved in the pathogenesis. IPT may be rare but they are a potentially serious complication of HSCT. A knowledge of these entities and insistence on a definitive biopsy of mass lesions in the post-HSCT period can avoid unnecessary treatment such as radical surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dc/1c/hr-2015-3-5848.PMC4591496.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4706391", "abstract": "Key clinical message Short QT syndrome carries the risk for inappropriate therapies using transvenous ICD because of overdetection of the ample T wave. SQT syndrome may also benefit from subcutaneous ICD, although additional cases are needed to affirm the safety of such device in this setting.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0c/b3/CCR3-4-035.PMC4706391.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3671295", "abstract": " Background. The current study examined parental factors related to risk of adolescent obesity within the context of a family systems framework. Methods. Seventy predominantly African American, low-income caregiver-adolescent dyads participated in the study. Validated measures of parental perceived child risk for development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, parental limit setting for sedentary behavior, and parental nurturance were evaluated as predictors of adolescent body mass index. Results. In this cross-sectional study, multiple linear regression demonstrated that parents of adolescents with higher zBMI reported worrying more about their child's risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Parent limit setting was also a significant predictor of adolescent zBMI. Contrary to expectations, higher levels of nurturance were associated with higher adolescent zBMI. Post hoc analyses revealed a trend towards a significant interaction between nurturance and limit setting, such that high levels of both parental nurturance and limit setting were associated with lower adolescent zBMI. Conclusions. Current findings suggest the importance of authoritative parenting and monitoring of adolescent health behaviors in the treatment of obesity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/34/cf/PMC3671295.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3460671", "abstract": "Migraine is a chronic, painful, and often disabling primary headache disorder, typically presenting with recurrent attacks that may be accompanied by a variety of neurological, gastrointestinal, and autonomic symptoms. Gastrointestinal symptoms in association with migraine including, nausea, vomiting, and gastroparesis, affect a large proportion of migraine sufferers. These symptoms may result in delays or inconsistencies in the absorption of oral treatments. Hence, the necessity for an innovative, non-invasive, parenteral delivery formulation for quick and effective treatment of migraine attacks is evident. Iontophoresis utilizes minimal amounts of electrical potential to support the fast transfer of ionized medication transdermally and into the general circulation. Two pharmacokinetic clinical trials have shown that iontophoretic delivery of sumatriptan through the skin produces quick and reproducible therapeutic plasma concentrations. A randomized, double-blind, multicenter, phase III study demonstrated superior efficacy versus placebo and excellent tolerability, with no triptan-related adverse events. The proportion of patients that were pain-free at 2 h post-treatment was 18", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/25/32/PMC3460671.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4810756", "abstract": "The thermal conductivity of solid biomass fuels is useful information in the investigation of biomass combustion behavior and the development of modeling especially in the context of large scale power generation. There are little published data on the thermal conductivity of certain types of biomass such as wheat straw, miscanthus, and torrefied woods. Much published data on wood is in the context of bulk materials. A method for determining the thermal conductivities of small particles of biomass fuels has been developed using a custom built test apparatus. Fourteen different samples of various solid biomass fuel were processed to form a homogenized pellet for analysis. The thermal conductivities of the pelletized materials were determined and compared against each other and to existing data.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9d/93/PMC4810756.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3056263", "abstract": "Conventional radiation therapy (RT) is a widely recognized treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, conventional RT plays only a limited role in HCC treatment because of its low efficacy and the low tolerance of the liver for this modality. Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) was recently developed and represents the most advanced radiation therapy technique currently available. It can deliver a high dose in a short time to well-defined hepatic tumors, with rapid dose fall-off gradients. We believe that SBRT with transarterial chemolipiodolization (TACL) may prove promising as a combined treatment modality for HCC due to its precision and relative safety. Here we present a case of successful treatment of advanced HCC with obstructive jaundice using this combined modality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2f/d6/PMC3056263.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4670672", "abstract": "Endophilin isoforms perform distinct characteristics in their interactions with N-type Ca2+ channels and dynamin. However, precise functional differences for the endophilin isoforms on synaptic vesicle (SV) endocytosis remain unknown. By coupling RNA interference and electrophysiological recording techniques in cultured rat hippocampal neurons, we investigated the functional differences of three isoforms of endophilin in SV endocytosis. The results showed that the amplitude of normalized evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents in endophilin1 knockdown neurons decreased significantly for both single train and multiple train stimulations. Similar results were found using endophilin2 knockdown neurons, whereas endophilin3 siRNA exhibited no change compared with control neurons. Endophilin1 and endophilin2 affected SV endocytosis, but the effect of endophilin1 and endophilin2 double knockdown was not different from that of either knockdown alone. This result suggested that endophilin1 and endophilin2 functioned together but not independently during SV endocytosis. Taken together, our results indicate that SV endocytosis is sustained by endophilin1 and endophilin2 isoforms, but not by endophilin3, in primary cultured hippocampal neurons.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b0/e8/PMC4670672.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2789962", "abstract": "A 17-year-old man presented to us with a chief complaint of decreased visual acuity accompanied by central scotoma. There was nothing unusual in his medical history other than a recent oratorical contest. At the time of initial diagnosis, the corrected visual acuity was 20/20 in the right eye and 20/100 in the left eye. No significant findings were apparent on ophthalmic evaluation. On fundoscopy, there was a dumbbell-shaped macular bleed with a well-defined margin in the left eye. The clinical course was closely monitored along with drug therapy. Four weeks post presentation, the pre-retinal hemorrhage had nearly resolved. On fluorescein angiography, no significant findings were observed. In the left eye, the corrected visual acuity had improved to 20/25. Valsalva retinopathy is a pathology that occurs when a sudden increase in intra-thoracic pressure or abdominal pressure occurs in an otherwise healthy person. Here we report a case of Valsalva retinopathy occurring following an oratorical contest along with a review of the relevant literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/09/kjo-23-318.PMC2789962.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4129158", "abstract": "The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is increasingly being utilised as a nonhuman primate model for human disease, ranging from autoimmune to infectious disease. In order to fully exploit these models, meaningful comparison to the human host response is necessary. Commercially available reagents, primarily targeted to human cells, were utilised to assess the phenotype and activation status of key immune cell types and cytokines in naive and infected animals. Single cell suspensions of blood, spleen, and lung were examined. Generally, the phenotype of cells was comparable between humans and marmosets, with approximately 63", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/50/86/PMC4129158.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3337468", "abstract": "Hemorrhage remains a major cause of mortality following traumatic injury in both military and civilian settings. Lower body negative pressure (LBNP) has been used as an experimental model to study the compensatory phase of hemorrhage in conscious humans, as it elicits central hypovolemia like that induced by hemorrhage. One physiological compensatory mechanism that changes during the course of central hypovolemia induced by both LBNP and hemorrhage is a baroreflex-mediated increase in muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), as assessed with microneurography. The purpose of this review is to describe recent results obtained using microneurography in our laboratory as well as those of others that have revealed new insights into mechanisms underlying compensatory increases in MSNA during progressive reductions in central blood volume and how MSNA is altered at the point of hemodynamic decompensation. We will also review recent work that has compared direct MSNA recordings with non-invasive surrogates of MSNA to determine the appropriateness of using such surrogates in assessing the clinical status of hemorrhaging patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6f/53/fphys-03-00110.PMC3337468.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3464066", "abstract": "Diabetic foot infections are a high risk for lower extremity amputation in patients with dense peripheral neuropathy and/or peripheral vascular disease. When they present with concomitant osteomyelitis, it poses a great challenge to the surgical and medical teams with continuing debates regarding the treatment strategy. A cohort prospective study conducted between October 2005 and October 2010 included 330 diabetic patients with osteomyelitis mainly involving the forefoot (study group) and 1,808 patients without foot osteomyelitis (control group). Diagnosis of osteomyelitis was based on probing to bone test with bone cultures for microbiological studies and/or repeated plain radiographic findings. Surgical treatment included debridement, sequestrectomy, resections of metatarsal and digital bones, or toe amputation. Antibiotics were started as empirical and modified according to the final culture and sensitivities for all patients. Patients were followed for at least 1 year after wound healing. The mean age of the study group was 56.7 years (SD = 11.4) compared to the control group of 56.3 years (SD = 12.1), while the male to female ratio was 3:1. At initial presentation, 82.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4c/c2/DFA-3-18809.PMC3464066.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3915172", "abstract": "Objective The aims of this study were to evaluate the relationship between the detachment force and bonding resin surface are and to determine the resin bonding surface area that would provide adequate bonding strength with minimum resin volume. Methods One hundred and sixty human premolars were randomly divided into 4 groups of 40 teeth each. The diameter of the resin surface area in each group was as follows: group 1, 1.5 mm; group 2, 2.5 mm; group 3, 3.5 mm; and group 4, 4.5 mm. Respond Dead Soft straight (length 0.0175 inch) was used to fabricate the retainers, and Transbond™ XT was used to fix the retainers to the tooth surfaces. A pair of teeth was embedded in acrylic blocks for each specimen. Thus, each group comprised 20 samples. Fixed retainers were bonded to the teeth, and vertical force was applied at the middle of wire. The force was measured using a universal testing machine. Results The mean value of detachment force was the highest for group 4 (102.38 ± 2.92 N), followed by group 3 (63.54 ± 2.21 N), group 2 (51.95 ± 1.61 N), and group 1 (24.14 ± 1.38 N). Conclusions The detachment force of lingual fixed retainers was significantly affected as the area of the resin bonding surface increased. Considering the minimum bonding strength of brackets, a resin bonding surface area with a diameter of 3.5 mm would provide adequate bonding strength.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/47/kjod-44-20.PMC3915172.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3409553", "abstract": "The rapid expansion of minimally invasive techniques for corpectomy in the thoracic spine provides promise to redefine treatment options in this region. Techniques have evolved permitting anterior, lateral, posterolateral, and midline posterior corpectomy in a minimally invasive fashion. We review the numerous techniques that have been described, including thoracoscopy, tubular retraction, and various instrumentation techniques. Minimally invasive techniques are compared to their open predecessors from a technical and complication standpoint. Advantages and disadvantages of different approaches are also considered, with an emphasis on surgical strategies and nuance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/11/a1/PMC3409553.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4644538", "abstract": " Purpose. To evaluate the variations in macular thickness in young Chinese myopic persons and the association with axial length (AL), spherical equivalence refraction (SE), age, intraocular pressure, and sex. Methods. In total, 133 young Chinese myopic subjects between 18 and 30 years of age were selected. The macular thickness was assessed using third-generation optical coherence tomography. AL, intraocular pressure, and SE were also measured. Results. The mean central foveal thickness was 191.1 ± 15.3 µm. The macula was consistently thinner in women than in men. Central foveal thickness had a significant positive correlation with AL and a negative correlation with SE. In the inner and outer regions, the macular thickness had a positive correlation with SE and negative correlation with AL. Conclusions. The retina was thinner in women than in men. Associated with myopic progression and AL extension, the central foveal thickness increased, while the retinal thickness of the inner and outer regions decreased.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/4a/PMC4644538.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4307107", "abstract": "Paratesticular sarcomas have happened rarely. Due to the infrequency of this malignant disease and its diverse histopathologic subtypes, no standard treatment would be available. Multiple treatments have reported in literature with different results. We have reported a 55 years old man with a 30 years history of paratesticular mass. After multiple operations, radical orchiectomy has revealed liposarcoma. The patient has been receiving 50 Gy radiation to the scrotum and inguinal area. After 18 months follow up, the patient was well and disease free. He has shown good response to surgery and radiotherapy, so we have reported the disease and its clinical course.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/77/IJCP-07-239.PMC4307107.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3224447", "abstract": "Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) following a centipede bite has been very rarely reported. Here, we describe a 22 year-old man who had ST-segment elevation AMI after a centipede bite. He presented with typical chest pain, electro and echocardiographic abnormalities, and elevated cardiac enzymes with normal coronary angiography. The probable mechanisms were described. Practitioners treating centipede bites shall not consider it lightly, as centipede envenomation may produce a variety of systemic and local manifestations in susceptible individuals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/04/JCDR-2-244.PMC3224447.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5358958", "abstract": "Purpose Prevention, early detection and effective rehabilitation of dysphagia are important issues to be considered in an aging society. Previous studies have shown conflicting findings regarding the association between dysphagia and its potential risk factors, including age, malnutrition, oral conditions, lifestyle and medical history. Herein, we assessed the prevalence and association of dysphagia with potential risk factors in 50- to 79-year-old adults dwelling in a community in Japan. Patients and methods In this study, there were 532 participants (185 males and 347 females). Participants who responded positively to the question “Do you sometimes choke on drinks/food such as tea and soup?” or those who presented with abnormal repetitive saliva swallowing test findings were diagnosed with dysphagia. The data collected from these participants included the following: number of teeth, occurrence of oral dryness, age, body mass index, serum albumin concentration, smoking, drinking and exercise habits, presence of diseases, such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension, and questions from the Mini–Mental State Examination. Results Dysphagia was observed in 33 males (17.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3d/22/cia-12-515.PMC5358958.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4013990", "abstract": "Percentile growth curves are often used as a clinical indicator to evaluate variations of children’s growth status. In this study, we propose empirical percentile growth curves using Z-scores adapted for Japanese Thoroughbred horses, with considerations of the seasonal compensatory growth that is a typical characteristic of seasonal breeding animals. We previously developed new growth curve equations for Japanese Thoroughbreds adjusting for compensatory growth. Individual horses and residual effects were included as random effects in the growth curve equation model and their variance components were estimated. Based on the Z-scores of the estimated variance components, empirical percentile growth curves were constructed. A total of 5,594 and 5,680 body weight and age measurements of male and female Thoroughbreds, respectively, and 3,770 withers height and age measurements were used in the analyses. The developed empirical percentile growth curves using Z-scores are computationally feasible and useful for monitoring individual growth parameters of body weight and withers height of young Thoroughbred horses, especially during compensatory growth periods.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/81/jes-24-063.PMC4013990.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5056269", "abstract": "The purpose of the research was to explore the associations between the characteristics of schools' vicinity and the risk of sugar sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption in elementary students. Findings exposed an important variation in student's SSB consumption between schools. Schools with a lower socioeconomic status or in a densely built environment tend to have higher proportion of regular SSB drinkers. These characteristics of the school's vicinity partly explained the variation observed between them. We estimated that a student moving to a school with a higher proportion of SSB drinkers may increase his/her chances by 52", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/39/69/PMC5056269.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2964961", "abstract": "Purpose The toxicity of antiglaucoma medications to ocular surface cells has been evaluated extensively; however, the toxicity to corneal endothelial cells (CECs) remains elusive. Our aim is to evaluate the toxicity of antiglaucoma medications to CECs using an in vitro toxicity assay. Methods Primary cultures of human (H) CECs derived from eye bank specimens were established. Following exposure of HCECs to test solutions for 10, 30, or 60 minutes, or 48 hours, we measured cell viability using a WST-1 assay. Test solutions were diluted in culture media and included 0.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5c/47/PMC2964961.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3149393", "abstract": "Reported lack of efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments in clinical trials is often not due to inefficacy of the treatment itself, but arises from inadequacies of trial design. This paper argues that trials of Ayurvedic interventions should exclusively use its multi-component, individualized and inherently holistic approach, and that general guidelines for rigorously reporting such clinical trials should be developed. Holistic Ayurvedic clinical trials, rigorously conducted and with high standards of reporting should translate into good clinical science, and may be expected to generate higher credibility for clinical studies of the Ayurvedic knowledge system.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/94/64/JAIM-1-52.PMC3149393.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4014382", "abstract": "Background The objective of this study was to validate the novel integration of oscillometric (Vasotens®) technology into a BPLab® ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring system to measure central BP, the aortic augmentation index, and pulse wave velocity (PWV) compared with the recommended and widely accepted tonometric method. Methods The ARTERY Society guidelines for comparison of PWV measurement techniques were used as the basis for recruitment of 99 individuals (mean age 44±19 years, 52 males). The standard for comparison was the conventional “classic” SphygmoCor device. Results Accordance of the two methods was satisfactory (r=0.98, mean difference of 2.9±3.5 mmHg for central systolic BP; r=0.98, mean difference of −1.1±2.3 mmHg for central diastolic BP; r=0.83, mean difference of −2.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/72/mder-7-091.PMC4014382.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4844659", "abstract": "A 32-year-old man presented with gradually increasing bilateral buttock pain. He had intermittent claudication. Multiple, homogenously enhanced intradural extramedullary lesions at L2-L3 and L5-S1 levels were observed on magnetic resonance imaging. The tumors were debulked and were removed in piecemeal pattern until they had completely been resected. Histopathological examination of the surgical specimens confirmed that both tumors were myxopapillary ependymomas (MPE). MPE presenting as concomitant double tumor at conus-cauda-filum level are very rare. This kind of presentation could not be directly considered as dissemination, since both tumors were in the site of classical origin of MPE. Ten cases of double spinal MPEs have been reported to date. Including the present case, analysis of the 11 patients revealed some facts. There is a male predominance, which is opposite to the ependymomas that are commonly observed in females. Median age at presentation is 15 years. Most pronounced symptom is low back pain that sometimes radiates to lower extremities. Surgical approach was aimed in all tumors, which could be succeeded in all tumors except one. Adjuvant radiation therapy was applied in 5 patients. No recurrences have been reported after surgery or surgery + radiotherapy regimens.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/68/kjs-13-33.PMC4844659.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2994132", "abstract": "Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is an uncommon inherited disorder caused by mutations in any of the genes encoding subunits of the superoxide-generating phagocyte NADPH oxidase system, which is essential for killing catalase producing bacteria and fungi, such as Aspergillus species, Staphylococcus aureus, Serratia marcescens, Nocardia species and Burkholderia cepacia. In case of a history of recurrent or persistent infections, immune deficiency should be investigated. Particularly, in the case of uncommon infections such as aspergillosis in early life, CGD should be considered. We describe here a case of CGD that presented with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in a 2-month-old girl. We confirmed pulmonary aspergillosis noninvasively through a positive result from the culture of bronchial alveolar lavage fluid, positive serological test for Aspergillus antigen and radiology results. She was successfully treated with Amphotericin B and recombinant IFN-γ initially. Six weeks later after discharge, she was readmitted for pneumonia. Since there were infiltrates on the right lower lung, which were considered as residual lesions, voriconazole therapy was initiated. She showed a favorable response to the treatment and follow-up CT showed regression of the pulmonary infiltrates.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/5e/kjped-53-722.PMC2994132.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5127539", "abstract": "In the present study, quids from La Cueva de los Muertos Chiquitos (CMC) were subjected to ELISA tests for 2 protozoan parasites, Toxoplasma gondii (n=45) and Trypanosoma cruzi (n=43). The people who occupied CMC, the Loma San Gabriel, lived throughout much of present-day Durango and Zacatecas in Mexico. The known pathoecology of these people puts them into at-risk categories for the transmission of T. gondii and T. cruzi. Human antibodies created in response to these 2 parasites can be detected in modern saliva using ELISA kits intended for use with human serum. For these reasons, quids were reconstituted and subjected to ELISA testing. All test wells yielded negative results. These results could be a factor of improper methods because there is no precedence for this work in the existing literature. The results could equally be a simple matter of parasite absence among those people who occupied CMC. A final consideration is the taphonomy of human antibodies and whether or not ELISA is a sufficient method for recovering antibodies from archaeological contexts. An additional ELISA test targeting secretory IgA (sIgA) was conducted to further examine the failure to detect parasite-induced antibodies from quids. Herein, the methods used for quid preparation and ELISA procedures are described so that they can be further developed by future researchers. The results are discussed in light of the potential future of quid analysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/37/kjp-54-5-605.PMC5127539.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4555212", "abstract": "A 65-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital for the evaluation of rapidly progressive renal dysfunction with serum creatinine of 2.7 mg/dl and urinary protein of 1.5 g daily. C-reactive protein (CRP) was 0.1 mg/dl. Kidney-limited intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVL) localized to the glomerular capillaries was diagnosed because the intraglomerular cells were positive for CD20 and CD79a, while there was no positivity in the extraglomerular kidney and extrarenal organs. Treatment with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, hydroxydaunomycin, vincristine, and prednisolone was started, and the patient has since been doing well. When IVL is limited to the intraglomerular capillaries, CRP may not be elevated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/da/c3/cnd-0005-0173.PMC4555212.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3638268", "abstract": "Objective The introduction and development of the embolic protecting device (EPD) has resulted in a decreased rate of stroke after carotid artery stenting (CAS). The authors performed a retrospective study to investigate the risk factors for developing large emboli after CAS which can lead to ischemic events. Methods A total of 35 consecutive patients who underwent CAS between January 2009 and March 2012 were included in this study. Patients were divided into two groups including those with small emboli (group A; grade 1, 2) and those with large emboli (group B; grade 3, 4). The size and number of emboli were assigned one of four grades (1=no clots, 2=1 or 2 small clots, 3=more than 3 small clots, 4=large clots) by microscopic observation of the EPD after CAS. We compared demographic characteristics, medical history, and angiographic findings of each group. Results Thirty-five patients underwent CAS, and technical success was achieved in all cases. Twenty-three patients were included in group A and 12 patients in group B. Our results demonstrated that advanced age [odds ratio (OR) 1.24; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/c5/jkns-53-155.PMC3638268.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4273510", "abstract": "There is a lack of research on the everyday lives of older people in developing countries. This exploratory study used structured observation and content analysis to examine the presence of older people in public fora and considered the methods' potential for understanding older people's social integration and inclusion. Structured observation occurred of public social spaces in six cities each located in a different developing country and in one city in the United Kingdom, together with content analysis of the presence of people in newspaper pictures and on television in the selected countries. Results indicated that across all fieldwork sites and data sources, there was a low presence of older people, with women considerably less present than men in developing countries. There was variation across fieldwork sites in older people's presence by place and time of day and in their accompanied status. The presence of older people in images drawn from newspapers was associated with the news/non-news nature of the source. The utility of the study's methodological approach is considered, as is the degree to which the presence of older people in public fora might relate to social integration and inclusion in different cultural contexts.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9c/d9/PMC4273510.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4626005", "abstract": "We describe the case of a 16 year-old female with mixed phenotype acute leukemia B/myeloid, NOS (formerly biphenotypic leukemia) with masked hypodiploidy and somatic TP53 and CDKN2A/B deletions. She achieved morphologic remission with lymphoid-directed multi-agent chemotherapy, but experienced an early medullary relapse 11 months from initial diagnosis. Her case details the unusual finding of hypodiploidy in a patient with ambiguous lineage leukemia and highlights the complexity of therapy selection for these high-risk patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/cd/nihms704716.PMC4626005.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5040810", "abstract": " Aims and Objective. To investigate the relatives' satisfaction and involvement on a general surgery ward regarding the critically ill patient. Introduction. Relatives to critically ill patients are affected both physically and mentally during the hospitalization of a family member. Research has shown that relatives do not always receive the attention they need from health professionals. There is a lack of studies that focus on relatives' satisfaction and involvement during their family members' hospitalization. Design. A mixed methods design was chosen. Methods. A quantitative study was conducted with 27 relatives to critically ill patients. All participated in a questionnaire and out of the 27 relatives, six participated in qualitative in-depth interviews. Results. The questionnaire revealed that relatives were dissatisfied with care and involvement. For further exploration of the dissatisfaction, a qualitative approach was used and the in-depth interviews revealed three themes: lack of continuity and structure, responsibility of coordination, and relatives feeling left on their own with no guiding and support. Conclusion. Health professionals' key role in relation to relatives must be guidance and support. Thereby, relatives can gain a sense of coherence during the hospitalization of a critically ill patient, which can lead to a greater satisfaction and thereby better support for the patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/85/66/PMC5040810.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3188721", "abstract": "Here we report the first Korean case of a girl who developed noninvasive squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva at the age of 16 years. She was taking tacrolimus, an immunosuppressive agent, after living-related liver transplantation. The vulvar masses were microscopically proved as vulvar intraepithelial neoplasm II and III, even squamous cell carcinoma in situ. Human papillomavirus subtypes (69 and 73) and human papillomavirus types (66, 70, 73, and 43) were detected in the vulvar mass and the cervicovaginal smear, respectively. The outcome of liver transplantation for children has been markedly improved during the last several decades. However, the present case highlights the need to perform periodic genital examinations for the adolescents after liver transplantation. In addition to the high risk and probable high subtypes, uncommonly found human papillomavirus subtypes were extracted from her vulvar cancer. The present case is the first to show the possible relationship between previously unknown and uncommon human papillomavirus subtypes and pediatric post-transplant vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. More attention should be paid to the vulvar and cervical surveillance of pediatric transplant recipients by both medical specialists and general physicians.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d5/10/jgo-22-207.PMC3188721.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4636751", "abstract": "Background: Stressful situations and life-threatening issues such as preeclampsia can lead to Post-traumatic stress disorders [PTSD]. It seems that within social supports, family support has more effect on mental health. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the association between family supports in the postpartum period with occurrence of post-traumatic stress disorder following preeclampsia. Patients and Methods: In this descriptive longitudinal study, 100 women with preeclampsia admitted in government hospitals of Mashhad were selected using convenience sampling. Post-traumatic stress disorder was diagnosed by psychiatrist interview and perinatal posttraumatic stress questionnaire (PPQ) in sixth week postpartum and family support was measured by family support scale (FSS) in second and sixth weeks postpartum. Data analyzed by SPSS 16 using Spearman correlation coefficient, paired sample T-test and Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: A reverse significant association was found between family support in weeks 2 and 6 (92.6 ± 22.6, 83.7 ± 21.6, respectively) and PTSD (mean score of 4.8 ± 2.5) (respectively, P = 0.010 and P =0.011). The most important variables affecting PTSD with presence of family support in weeks 2 and 6 were postpartum depression in week 6 as well as trait anxiety at the time of admission. Conclusions: The more support in weeks 2 and 6 postpartum, the less PTSD occurs. Therefore, it is suggested to health care providers who face mothers after delivery to evaluate the support received by mothers and help those with inadequate or inappropriate support.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c7/c8/ircmj-17-10-17865.PMC4636751.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4971148", "abstract": "Focal myositis, a benign myositis which mostly occurs at lower extremity, is a disease that is spontaneously improved by conservative treatments such as bed rest and administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Focal myositis is known to occur mostly at lower extremity, but we could not find a report of occurrence around hip. Therefore, authors attempt to report clinical progression along with the literature review.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/1a/hp-26-198.PMC4971148.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3262370", "abstract": "Adrenocortical insufficiency occurs when there is inadequate release of cortisol from the adrenal cortex. Disturbances of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis are common following trauma, surgical stress, and critical illness. While this is often a protective mechanism, these responses may become “uncoupled” or maladaptive resulting in an exacerbation of organ failure and higher mortality rates. In these clinical settings, the patient presents with a persistent systemic inflammation state, a hyperdynamic cardiovascular response, and vasopressor dependent shock. As such, the occurrence of adrenal insufficiency in the setting of critical illness is most appropriately termed critical illness-related corticosteroid insufficiency. In these settings, recent data suggests that these patients may benefit from a short course of low-dose steroid replacement therapy. Cosyntropin, a synthetic derivative of adrenocorticotropic hormone, is being used with increased frequency in the evaluation and diagnosis of adrenocortical insufficiency in this patient population. A random cortisol level is checked before a 250-μg injection of cosyntropin and then 30–60 minutes later. The cortisol levels and response to cosyntropin may be interpreted to identify an insufficient adrenal response. Of note, the setting of critical illness can greatly affect the cosyntropin test sensitivity on identifying adrenal insufficiency. Changes in the stress response during critical illness combined with the resuscitation and management of these patients greatly disturbs serum protein levels, especially those of albumin and transcortin. Common intensive care unit (ICU) diagnoses such as sepsis and malnutrition can increase baseline levels and blunt the cortisol response to cosyntropin stimulation, respectively. As well, numerous pharmacological agents routinely used in the ICU have been shown to interfere with cortisol levels and cosyntropin responsiveness. While steroids have a place in the ICU, specific dosing and length of administration remain inconsistent", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/02/3f/PMC3262370.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3078235", "abstract": "A 35-year–old man with pre-existing rheumatic heart disease and aortic regurgitation (AR) presented with intermittent fever, ankle swelling and clinical evidence of endocarditis. Transoesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) revealed vegetations and destruction of the aortic valve (AV). Blood cultures grew a gram positive coccobacillus which was phenotypically identified as Abiotrophia defectvia (A.defectiva). A diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE) due to A.defectiva was made. Treatment, with penicillin and gentamicin, was administered for 4 weeks. Mechanical valve replacement was required few days after starting the antibiotic therapy. The patient had a favorable outcome on follow up. Although A.defectiva is an uncommon cause of endocarditis, early and correct identification of this pathogen is important to improve the outcome and the prognosis of patients with IE due to this organism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/10/LJM-2-043.PMC3078235.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3323863", "abstract": "Mitochondrial dysfunction is the most fundamental mechanism of cell damage in cerebral hypoxia-ischemia and reperfusion. Mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) is increasingly recognized as a source for reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the postischemic tissue. Potentially, ROS originating in MRC can contribute to the reperfusion-driven oxidative stress, promoting mitochondrial membrane permeabilization. The loss of mitochondrial membranes integrity during reperfusion is considered as the major mechanism of secondary energy failure. This paper focuses on current data that support a pathogenic role of ROS originating from mitochondrial respiratory chain in the promotion of secondary energy failure and proposes potential therapeutic strategy against reperfusion-driven oxidative stress following hypoxia-ischemia-reperfusion injury of the developing brain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/62/PMC3323863.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3383296", "abstract": "We describe the case of a 39-year-old woman with signs and symptoms suggesting cauda equina syndrome. Lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated no lesion at this level, while cervical MRI showed a T2-hyperintense lesion in the middle-right anterolateral region of the cervical spinal cord, which may explain the symptoms by involving the anterior spinothalamic tract. We suggest that in cases with cauda equina syndrome presentation and normal lumbosacral MRI, a cervicodorsal lesion should be considered during diagnostic assessment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/da/12/crn-0004-0097.PMC3383296.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5234337", "abstract": "Cardiac metastasis from renal cell carcinoma (RCC) without inferior vena cava (IVC) involvements is extremely rare with few reported cases. Sarcomatoid RCC with rhabdoid feature is a rare pathologic type of RCC having aggressive behavior due to great metastatic potential. Here, we report a case of rapidly growing cardiac metastasis of RCC which brought on right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) obstruction without IVC and right atrial involvement in a 61-year-old woman. Cardiac arrest occurred during radical nephrectomy and echocardiography revealed mass nearly obstructing the RVOT which was not recognized by preoperative echocardiography 1 month ago. Postoperative immunohistochemical evaluation of renal mass revealed sarcomatoid RCC with rhabdoid feature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/3b/jcu-24-329.PMC5234337.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5070274", "abstract": "Background Continuous androgen deprivation therapy (CADT) is commonly used for patients with non-metastatic prostate cancer as primary therapy for high-risk disease, adjuvant therapy together with radiation or for recurrence after initial local therapy. Intermittent ADT (IADT), a recently developed alternative strategy for providing ADT, is thought to potentially reduce adverse effects, but little is known about practice patterns relating to it. We aimed to describe factors related to physicians’ ADT use and modality for patients with non-metastatic prostate cancer. Methods A 45 min online survey was completed by urologists and oncologists responsible for treatment decisions for non-metastatic prostate cancer from 19 countries with high or increasing prevalence of non-metastatic prostate cancer. Results There were 441 treating physicians who completed the survey which represented 99 177 patients with prostate cancer under their care, of which 76 386 (77", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/77/b3/esmoopen-2016-000040.PMC5070274.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4620674", "abstract": "Aims and background. The circadian pattern of stroke occurrence variation has been recognized with certain differences between authors and stroke types. The underlying reason may be related to exogenous factors (cyclic physical activity, including sleep–awake cycles and assuming the up-right posture) and endogenous factors, with their diurnal variation (blood pressure, hemostatic balance, autonomic system activity). The aims of the present study are to investigate the existence of a circadian variation of stroke and the possible differences between stroke subtypes in the Cluj Napoca area. Materials and method. The stroke event data were acquired from the Patient Records of a consecutive series of 1083 patients admitted through the Emergency Room at Neurology Departments I and II of the District Hospital of Cluj Napoca, between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2012. The classifiable onset time was assigned to one of four six-hour intervals: 00.01–06.00 (night), 06.01–12.00 (morning), 12.01–18.00 (afternoon) and 18.01–24.00 (evening). Demographic data and vascular risk factors were recorded. Results. All three stroke types (ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke and subarachnoid hemorrhage) have shown a circadian variation regarding their occurrence, with the peak of incidence in the morning and the nadir during nighttime. This circadian pattern is independent by demographic factors and vascular risk factors. Conclusion. Our study confirmed the circadian variation of onset occurrence for all stroke subtypes. Some triggering factors promote ischemic stroke and prevent hemorrhagic stroke. The diurnal pattern of variation with the higher incidence in the morning and the lower in the night may lead to chrono-therapeutic and preventive approach (chrono-therapy of the risk factors), which targets the period of the highest vulnerability after awaking.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c5/15/cm8704p240.PMC4620674.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2447725", "abstract": "CS23D (chemical shift to 3D structure) is a web server for rapidly generating accurate 3D protein structures using only assigned nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) chemical shifts and sequence data as input. Unlike conventional NMR methods, CS23D requires no NOE and/or J-coupling data to perform its calculations. CS23D accepts chemical shift files in either SHIFTY or BMRB formats, and produces a set of PDB coordinates for the protein in about 10–15 min. CS23D uses a pipeline of several preexisting programs or servers to calculate the actual protein structure. Depending on the sequence similarity (or lack thereof) CS23D uses either (i) maximal subfragment assembly (a form of homology modeling), (ii) chemical shift threading or (iii) shift-aided de novo structure prediction (via Rosetta) followed by chemical shift refinement to generate and/or refine protein coordinates. Tests conducted on more than 100 proteins from the BioMagResBank indicate that CS23D converges (i.e. finds a solution) for >95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/91/gkn305.PMC2447725.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3619442", "abstract": "This work evaluated activity levels in a group of healthy older adults to establish a target activity level for adults of similar age after total joint arthroplasty (TJA). With the decreasing age of TJA patients, it is essential to have a reference for activity level in younger patients as activity level affects quality of life and implant design. 54 asymptomatic, healthy older adults with no clinical evidence of lower extremity OA participated. The main outcome measure, average daily step count, was measured using an accelerometer-based activity monitor. On average the group took 8813 ± 3611 steps per day, approximately 4000 more steps per day than has been previously reported in patients following total joint arthroplasty. The present work provides a reference for activity after joint arthroplasty which is relevant given the projected number of people under the age of 65 who will undergo joint arthroplasty in the coming years.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6c/99/PMC3619442.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2694025", "abstract": "Purpose To report a case of visually significant band keratopathy associated with ocular inflammation and systemic hypercalcemia which markedly decreased in severity after treatment of these underlying factors. Methods Retrospective case report. Results A 53-year-old Asian female with granulomatous panuveitis in the left eye presented with diffuse band keratopathy through the central cornea. The serum calcium was elevated. The patient was treated with topical prednisolone acetate 1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/6f/PMC2694025.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4745829", "abstract": "Objectives The study aims at applying pharmaceutical nanotechnology and D-optimal fractional factorial design to screen and optimize the high-risk variables affecting the performance of a complex drug delivery system consisting of glimepiride–Zein nanoparticles and inclusion of the optimized formula with thermoresponsive triblock copolymers in in situ gel. Methods Sixteen nanoparticle formulations were prepared by liquid–liquid phase separation method according to the D-optimal fractional factorial design encompassing five variables at two levels. The responses investigated were glimepiride entrapment capacity (EC), particle size and size distribution, zeta potential, and in vitro drug release from the prepared nanoparticles. Furthermore, the feasibility of embedding the optimized Zein-based glimepiride nanoparticles within thermoresponsive triblock copolymers poly(lactide-co-glycolide)-block-poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) in in situ gel was evaluated for controlling glimepiride release rate. Results Through the systematic optimization phase, improvement of glimepiride EC of 33.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/27/ijn-11-543.PMC4745829.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4937947", "abstract": "Abstract We report on a patient who survived cardiac arrest and showed recovery of consciousness and an injured ARAS at the early stage of hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HI- BI) for 3 weeks, which was demonstrated by diffusion tensor tractography (DTT). A 52-year-old male patient who had suffered cardiac arrest caused by acute coronary syndrome was resuscitated immediately by a layman and paramedics for ∼25 minutes. He was then transferred immediately to the emergency room of a local medical center. When starting rehabilitation at 2 weeks after onset, his consciousness was impaired, with a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 8 and Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (GRS-R) score of 8. He underwent comprehensive rehabilitative therapy, including drugs for recovery of consciousness. He recovered well and rapidly so that his consciousness had recovered to full scores in terms of GCS:15 and GRS-R:23 at 5 weeks after onset. The left lower dorsal and right lower ventral ARAS had become thicker on 5-week DTT compared with 2-week DTT (Fig. 1B). Regarding the change of neural connectivity of the thalamic ILN, increased neural connectivity to the basal forebrain and prefrontal cortex was observed in both hemispheres on 5-week DTT compared with 2-week DTT. Recovery of an injured ARAS was demonstrated in a patient who survived cardiac arrest and his consciousness showed rapid and good recovery for 3 weeks at the early stage of HI-BI.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b4/77/medi-95-e4041.PMC4937947.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2971713", "abstract": "Despite ongoing therapeutic innovations, metastatic breast cancer (MBC) remains a treatable but incurable disease. In the developed world, a diagnosis of MBC without a preceding diagnosis of early stage disease is a rare event. However, approximately one-third of women with early stage breast cancer ultimately experience a distant recurrence. Because the majority of breast cancers express estrogen and/or progesterone receptors and are accordingly considered hormone-sensitive, therapeutic strategies that interfere with hormone-mediated tumorigenesis have been a cornerstone of the breast cancer management paradigm for decades. Historically, the selective estrogen receptor modulator tamoxifen has been the most extensively studied and widely used hormone maneuver in breast cancer. However, a recent therapeutic innovation, namely the successful development of third-generation aromatase inhibitors (AIs), has had a dramatic impact on the treatment paradigm for women with hormone-sensitive MBC. Because of the demonstrated efficacy in postmenopausal breast cancer patients, the generally favorable side-effect profile, and the convenience of oral administration, AIs are now in widespread clinical use. Currently, there are three clinically available third-generation AIs: two reversible, nonsteroidal AIs, letrozole and anastrozole; and one irreversible, steroidal AI, exemestane. All three agents are at least as efficacious as tamoxifen as monotherapy for postmenopausal women with hormone-sensitive MBC. Current clinical research aims to improve upon existing strategies by evaluating AIs in combination with systemic chemotherapy regimens and/or novel targeted agents. It is hoped that these therapeutic innovations will lead to ongoing improvements in quality of life parameters and ideally survival for women with hormone-sensitive MBC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/19/PMC2971713.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4814690", "abstract": "Neurorehabilitation effective delivery for stroke is likely to be improved by establishing a mechanistic understanding of how to enhance adaptive plasticity. Functional electrical stimulation is effective at reducing poststroke foot drop; in some patients, the effect persists after therapy has finished with an unknown mechanism. We used fMRI to examine neural correlates of functional electrical stimulation key elements, volitional intent to move and concurrent stimulation, in a group of chronic stroke patients receiving functional electrical stimulation for foot-drop correction. Patients exhibited task-related activation in a complex network, sharing bilateral sensorimotor and supplementary motor activation with age-matched controls. We observed consistent separation of patients with and without carryover effect on the basis of brain responses. Patients who experienced the carryover effect had responses in supplementary motor area that correspond to healthy controls; the interaction between experimental factors in contralateral angular gyrus was seen only in those without carryover. We suggest that the functional electrical stimulation carryover mechanism of action is based on movement prediction and sense of agency/body ownership—the ability of a patient to plan the movement and to perceive the stimulation as a part of his/her own control loop is important for carryover effect to take place.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d4/9d/PMC4814690.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4846714", "abstract": "Introduction To describe the urologic outcomes of contemporary adult spina bifida patients managed in a multidisciplinary clinic. Material and methods A retrospective chart review of patients seen in our adult spina bifida clinic from January 2004 to November 2011 was performed to identify urologic management, urologic surgeries, and co-morbidities. Results 225 patients were identified (57.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/99/CEJU-69-00596.PMC4846714.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2694461", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE: To analyze concentric and eccentric strength and endurance in patients with unilateral intermittent claudication. INTRODUCTION: Basic motor tasks are composed of concentric, isometric, and eccentric actions, which are related and contribute to physical performance. In previous studies of patients with intermittent claudication, the disease-related reduction in concentric and isometric muscular strength and endurance resulted in poorer walking performance. To date, no study has evaluated eccentric muscle action in patients with intermittent claudication. METHODS: Eleven patients with unilateral intermittent claudication performed isokinetic concentric and eccentric actions at the ankle joints to assess peak torque and total work in both symptomatic and asymptomatic legs. RESULTS: Concentric peak torque and total work were lower in the symptomatic than in the asymptomatic leg (80 ± 32 vs. 95 ± 41 N/m, P = 0.01; 1479 ± 667 vs. 1709 ± 879 J, P = 0.03, respectively). There were no differences in eccentric peak torque and total work between symptomatic and asymptomatic legs (96 ± 30 vs. 108 ± 48 N/m; 1852 ± 879 vs. 1891 ± 755 J, respectively). CONCLUSION: Strength and endurance in the symptomatic leg were lower during concentric compared to eccentric action. Future studies are recommended to investigate the mechanisms underlying these responses and to analyze the effects of interventions to improve concentric strength and endurance on functional limitations in patients with intermittent claudication.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/19/47/PMC2694461.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2233838", "abstract": "In the presence of a low pH environment, the channel-forming T domain of diphtheria toxin undergoes a conformational change that allows for both its own insertion into planar lipid bilayers and the translocation of the toxin's catalytic domain across them. Given that the T domain contributes only three transmembrane segments, and the channel is permeable to ions as large as glucosamine+ and NAD−, it would appear that the channel must be a multimer. Yet, there is substantial circumstantial evidence that the channel may be formed from a single subunit. To test the hypothesis that the channel formed by the T domain of diphtheria toxin is monomeric, we made mixtures of two T domain constructs whose voltage-gating characteristics differ, and then observed the gating behavior of the mixture's single channels in planar lipid bilayers. One of these constructs contained an NH2-terminal hexahistidine (H6) tag that blocks the channel at negative voltages; the other contained a COOH-terminal H6 tag that blocks the channel at positive voltages. If the channel is constructed from multiple T domain subunits, one expects to see a population of single channels from this mixture that are blocked at both positive and negative voltages. The observed single channels were blocked at either negative or positive voltages, but never both. Therefore, we conclude that the T domain channel is monomeric.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/f4/8468.PMC2233838.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3965114", "abstract": "The laminin (LM)-database, hosted at http://www.lm.lncc.br, was published in the NAR database 2011 edition. It was the first database that provided comprehensive information concerning a non-collagenous family of extracellular matrix proteins, the LMs. In its first version, this database contained a large amount of information concerning LMs related to health and disease, with particular emphasis on the haemopoietic system. Users can easily access several tabs for LMs and LM-related molecules, as well as LM nomenclatures and direct links to PubMed. The LM-database version 2.0 integrates data from several publications to achieve a more comprehensive knowledge of LMs in health and disease. The novel features include the addition of two new tabs, ‘Neuromuscular Disorders’ and ‘miRNA-–LM Relationship’. More specifically, in this updated version, an expanding set of data has been displayed concerning the role of LMs in neuromuscular and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as the putative involvement of microRNAs. Given the importance of LMs in several biological processes, such as cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, migration and cell death, this upgraded version expands for users a panoply of information, regarding complex molecular circuitries that involve LMs in health and disease, including neuromuscular and neurodegenerative disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/7d/gkt901.PMC3965114.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3557413", "abstract": "Formation of plant virus membrane-associated replication factories requires the association of viral replication proteins and viral RNA with intracellular membranes, the recruitment of host factors and the modification of membranes to form novel structures that house the replication complex. Many viruses encode integral membrane proteins that act as anchors for the replication complex. These hydrophobic proteins contain transmembrane domains and/or amphipathic helices that associate with the membrane and modify its structure. The comovirus Co-Pro and NTP-binding (NTB, putative helicase) proteins and the cognate nepovirus X2 and NTB proteins are among the best characterized plant virus integral membrane replication proteins and are functionally related to the picornavirus 2B, 2C, and 3A membrane proteins. The identification of membrane association domains and analysis of the membrane topology of these proteins is discussed. The evidence suggesting that these proteins have the ability to induce membrane proliferation, alter the structure and integrity of intracellular membranes, and modulate the induction of symptoms in infected plants is also reviewed. Finally, areas of research that need further investigation are highlighted.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a6/6b/PMC3557413.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2671794", "abstract": "Objectives The melanoma antigen gene (MAGE) and synovial sarcoma on X chromosome (SSX) gene families are silent in most normal adult tissues, but are expressed in a variety of malignant lesions. Therefore, detection of MAGE and SSX transcription may be useful for the diagnosis of head and neck cancers. The aim of this study is to detect MAGE and SSX gene transcripts of head and neck cancers using the MAGE 1-6 assay and the SSX 1-9 assay. Methods The transcripts of MAGE 1-6 and SSX 1-9 genes were detected by the MAGE 1-6 assay and the SSX 1-9 assay respectively, in cancer cell lines, cancer tissue, and induced sputum specimens from head and neck cancer patients. Results The transcripts of MAGE 1-6 and SSX 1-9 genes were detected in 82.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/55/ceo-1-97.PMC2671794.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3172985", "abstract": "This pilot study investigated the possibility that metabolomic differences exist in second trimester of women delivering at term (≥37 weeks, n = 216) and preterm (≤35 weeks, n = 11). For this retrospective study, biobanked AF samples underwent near-infrared (NIR) spectral analysis using wavelengths from 700 to 1050 nm. Spectral data was compressed then optimized by multilinear regression to create a calibration model. The resultant model was able to classify term and preterm births based on differing AF metabolomic profiles with a sensitivity and specificity of 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/76/PMC3172985.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3529245", "abstract": "Eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EGE) is an uncommon disease characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract, which is usually associated with abdominal pain, diarrhea, ascites, and peripheral eosinophilia. Steroids remain the mainstay of treatment for EGE, but symptoms often recur when the dose is reduced. Macrolides have immunomodulatory effects as well as antibacterial effects. The immunomodulatory effect results in inhibition of T-lymphocyte proliferation and triggering of T-lymphocyte and eosinophil apoptosis. Macrolides also have a steroid-sparing effect through their influence on steroid metabolism. We report a rare case of EGE, which relapsed on steroid reduction but improved following clarithromycin treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/cd/kjim-27-451.PMC3529245.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3502217", "abstract": "Septins are a family of GTP-binding, membrane-interacting cytoskeletal proteins, highly conserved and essential in all eukaryotes (with the exception of plants). Septins play important roles in a number of cellular events that involve membrane remodeling and compartmentalization. One such event is cytokinesis, the last stage of cell division. While cytokinesis is ultimately achieved via the mechanical contraction of an actomyosin ring at the septum, determination of the location where cytokinesis will take place, and recruitment of factors involved in signaling events leading to septation requires the activity of septins. We are working towards dissecting the properties of septins from the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, where they were first discovered as cell cycle mutants. In our studies we have employed several complementary electron microscopy techniques to describe the organization and structure of septins both in vitro and in situ.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/61/cib-5-503.PMC3502217.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5430252", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the differential effects of fixation of the thoracolumbar junction on the activity of the thoracic and lumbar muscle groups with and without the abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM). [Subjects and Methods] The participants were 40 healthy adults. During trunk extension, thoracic and lumbar muscle activities were assessed using surface electromyography when fixing the pelvic and popliteal areas and the thoracolumbar junction, with and without the ADIM. [Results] The activity of the thoracic extensors at the T9 level applying thoracolumbar fixation with ADIM was significantly higher than with only pelvic fixation or pelvic fixation with ADIM during prone trunk extension. However, the activity of the lumbar extensors at the L3 level with pelvic fixation alone, without ADIM, was significantly higher than pelvic fixation with ADIM or additional thoracolumbar fixation with ADIM during prone trunk extension [Conclusion] This study demonstrated that fixation of the thoracolumbar junction with ADIM during trunk extension was more effective at eliciting thoracic extensor and minimising lumbar extensor activity than other conventional fixation methods.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/28/06/jpts-29-581.PMC5430252.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3004400", "abstract": "This study aimed to determine the prevalence of  metabolic syndrome (MeS) and its individual components in Jordanian children and adolescents aged 7–18 years and determine the factors that are associated with clustering of metabolic abnormalities. MeS was defined using the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) definition. The prevalence of MeS was estimated from 512 subjects who had complete information on all MeS components. The prevalence of MeS according to IDF criteria was 1.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/78/07/PMC3004400.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4278918", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of cancer treatment on bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar spine (LS) and femur in the postmenopausal women with cervical or endometrial cancer without bone metastasis compared to normal control postmenopausal women. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the BMD data in the LS, femur neck (FN) and trochanter (FT) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and laboratory data of bone turnover markers at baseline and after one year in 130 patients with cervical cancer, 68 patients with endometrial cancer, and 225 healthy controls. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the T-scores of basal BMD in LS and femur between patients with endometrial cancer and controls, and only T-score of basal BMD at the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4) was significantly lower in patients with cervical cancer compared to controls. One year later, T-scores of BMD at all LS sites and FN in patients with cervical cancer and T-scores of BMD at L3, L4, FN, and FT in those with endometrial cancer after cancer treatment were significantly lower compared to controls. Lower proportions of normal BMD at all skeletal sites except L2 in patients with endometrial cancer and those at L1, L4, and FN in patients with cervical cancer were observed compared to controls after cancer treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that cancer treatment increase bone loss in postmenopausal women with cervical and endometrial cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/b0/jcav06p0082.PMC4278918.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3881873", "abstract": "Objective: This study evaluated the variation of conversion degree (DC) in the 12 hours following initial photoactivation of a low-shrinkage composite resin (Venus Diamond). Material and Methods: The conversion degree was monitored for 12 hours using Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) F-TIR Spectroscopy. The composite was placed in 1 or 2 mm rings and cured for 10 or 20 seconds with a LED lamp. ATR spectra were acquired from the bottom surface of each sample immediately after the initial photoactivation (P=0), 30 minutes (P=0.5) and 12 hours after photoactivation (P=12) in order to obtain the DC progression during the post-curing period. Interactions between thickness (T), irradiation time (I) and post-curing (P) on the DC were calculated through ANOVA testing. Results: All the first order interactions were statistically significant, with the exception of the T-P interaction. Furthermore, the shift from P=0 to P=0.5 had a statistically higher influence than the shift from P=0.5 to P=12. The post-curing period played a fundamental role in reaching higher DC values with the low-shrinkage composite resin tested in this study. Moreover, both the irradiation time and the composite thickness strongly influenced the DC. Conclusions: Increased irradiation time may be useful in obtaining a high conversion degree (DC) with a low-shrinkage nano-hybrid composite resin, particularly with 2 mm composite layers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/7e/jaos-21-02-0190.PMC3881873.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4877402", "abstract": "The emergence of resistance to multiple antimicrobial agents in Gram-negative bacteria is a significant threat to public health, as it restricts the armamentarium of the clinician against these infections. The aim of this study was to determine the burden of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) and pandrug-resistant (PDR) Gram-negative bacteria at a tertiary-care centre. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of 1240 clinical isolates of Gram-negative bacteria obtained from various clinical samples during the study period was carried out by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Minimum inhibitory concentration of all antibiotics including tigecycline and colistin was determined by Vitek-2 automated susceptibility testing system. Out of 1240 isolates of Gram-negative bacteria, 112 isolates (9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/0a/main.PMC4877402.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5417034", "abstract": "We describe a case of neuro-Behçet disease diagnosed in a 12-year-old girl. This patient presented with recurrent oral ulcers, incontinence, spastic gait, blurry vision, and asymmetrical lower extremity hypertonia. Extensive testing revealed punctate lesions through the central nervous system, vitritis, papillitis, and uveitis. A thorough infectious and neoplastic workup was negative. She was treated with pulse steroids and azathioprine with gradual improvement in her gait and ophthalmologic findings. Although rare, primary neuro-Behçet should be considered in pediatric patients with neurologic abnormalities and recurrent aphthous ulcers without other explanation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cb/78/10.1177_2329048X14550505.PMC5417034.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2690764", "abstract": "Although uncemented cup implants frequently are used in young patients, we believe long-term survival rates of cups in these patients are somewhat disappointing, and therefore we have continued to use cemented cups in primary THA, even in young patients. However, in cases of acetabular bone stock defects, we also use bone impaction grafting. We prospectively followed 130 patients with 175 cemented cups; no patients were lost to followup. The mean age of the patients at surgery was 31 years (range, 16–39 years). An acetabular reconstruction with bone impaction grafting was performed in 84 hips (48", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e2/68/PMC2690764.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5147478", "abstract": "A 53-year-old man arrived at the trauma center with a steel bar penetrating from the epigastrium to the right scapula. He was hypotensive and hypoxic, and immediate resuscitation and basic evaluation were performed. An emergency operation was performed due to an unstable hemodynamic state. Multiple injuries were confirmed in the right lower lobe, posterior chest wall, diaphragm, and liver lateral segment. Right lower lobectomy and liver lateral sectionectomy were performed following removal of the bar. The patient recovered without additional hemorrhage after the surgery, and was transferred to a rehabilitation institution with periodic follow-up.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/7c/kjtcv-49-481.PMC5147478.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3342807", "abstract": "Objective The appropriate role for chiropractic in US health care has not been established, but third-party payors and public policy makers must make decisions about the appropriate role for chiropractors in health care systems and for the services that chiropractors provide. Appropriateness studies for chiropractic may inform those decisions. The purpose of this article is to discuss the implications and limitations of appropriateness studies for chiropractic. Discussion We reviewed the general context for assessment of the appropriateness and the application of appropriateness studies to chiropractic in particular. We evaluated the implications and limitations for chiropractic of methods of small area analysis and the RAND-UCLA Appropriateness Method. The RAND-UCLA Appropriateness Method has been applied to the evaluation of spinal manipulation. Regional variations in chiropractic utilization have yet to be described through small area analysis, but these methods appear to hold some potential for assessing the appropriateness of chiropractic care. Both small area analysis and the RAND-UCLA method offer limited possibilities for the assessment of chiropractic appropriateness. Conclusion Future assessment of the appropriate role for chiropractic in US health care will raise issues beyond the scope of previous appropriateness studies. Studying the appropriate role for chiropractic will require consideration of the clinical discipline in its entirety, rather than individual consideration of specific interventions. A fair assessment of chiropractic appropriateness will require new evidence and perhaps new research methodologies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/09/PMC3342807.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2712839", "abstract": "Honey has been used since long time both in medical and domestic needs, but only recently the antioxidant property of it came to limelight. The fact that antioxidants have several preventative effects against different diseases, such as cancer, coronary diseases, inflammatory disorders, neurological degeneration, and aging, led to search for food rich in antioxidants. Chemoprevention uses various dietary agents rich in phytochemicals which serve as antioxidants. With increasing demand for antioxidant supply in the food, honey had gained vitality since it is rich in phenolic compounds and other antioxidants like ascorbic acid, amino acids, and proteins. Some simple and polyphenols found in honey, namely, caffeic acid (CA), caffeic acid phenyl esters (CAPE), Chrysin (CR), Galangin (GA), Quercetin (QU), Kaempferol (KP), Acacetin (AC), Pinocembrin (PC), Pinobanksin (PB), and Apigenin (AP), have evolved as promising pharmacological agents in treatment of cancer. In this review, we reviewed the antiproliferative and molecular mechanisms of honey and above-mentioned polyphenols in various cancer cell lines.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/89/PMC2712839.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4913961", "abstract": "For targeted delivery of colloids to the lymphatic system, the colloids should efficiently reach and remain in the lymphatics for a considerable period of time. As per the current knowledge, diffusion and phagocytosis are the two mechanisms through which colloids reach the lymphatic system. Several parameters including particle size and charge have been shown to affect the direct uptake of colloids by the lymphatic system. Although many researchers attached ligands on the surface of colloids to promote phagocytosis-mediated lymphatic delivery, another school of thought suggests avoidance of phagocytosis by use of carriers like polyethylene glycol (PEG)ylated colloids to impart stealth attributes and evade phagocytosis. In this perspective, we weigh up the paradoxical theories and approaches available in the literature to draw conclusions on the conditions favorable for achieving efficient lymphatic targeting of colloids.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/9f/ijn-11-2867.PMC4913961.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3582095", "abstract": "The concept of high-urgency (HU) renal transplantation was introduced in order to offer to patients, who are not able to undergo long-term dialysis treatment, a suitable renal graft in a short period of time, overcoming by this way the obstacle of the prolonged time spent on the waiting list. The goal of this study was to evaluate the patient and graft survivals after HU renal transplantation and compare them to the long-term outcomes of the non-high-urgency renal transplant recipients. The clinical course of 33 HU renal transplant recipients operated on at our center between 1995 and 2010 was retrospectively analyzed. The major indication for the HU renal transplantation was the imminent lack of access for either hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis (67", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/79/2c/PMC3582095.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2685038", "abstract": "Objective The purpose of our study was to assess whether a review of multiphasic helical CT combined with the previous serial CT images could be helpful to depict a viable tumor in hepatocellular carcinoma treated with transarterial chemoembolization. Materials and Methods Twenty-four consecutive patients with 35 hepatocellular carcinomas underwent transarterial chemoembolization followed by hepatic resection. First, three radiologists independently analyzed the last CT images taken before resection for the presence of viable tumor. A second analysis was then performed using the last CT combined with the previous serial CT images. The CT analyses were then compared with the pathologic results. The added value of the review of the previous serial CT images was evaluated by performing a receiver operating characteristic analysis. The sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy for the depiction of viable tumor were also assessed, and the characteristics of the false-negative lesions were pathologically evaluated. Results The mean diagnostic accuracies (Az values) for the depiction of viable tumor with using the last CT alone and with the review of the previous serial CT images for all observers were 0.885 and 0.901, respectively, which were not significantly difference (p > 0.05). However, the additional review of the previous serial CT images allowed the observers to render a correct diagnosis for three lesions that had been incorrectly diagnosed with the review of last CT alone. The sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of the last CT along with the review of the previous serial CT images were 78", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/d3/kjr-6-153.PMC2685038.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1892643", "abstract": "Ischemic stroke is one of the most common causes of death worldwide and is most often caused by thrombotic processes. We investigated the changes in hsCRP and homocysteine levels, two of these risk factors, during the acute period of ischemic stroke and evaluated the relationship between these levels and the short-term prognosis. HsCRP and homocysteine levels were measured at the 2nd, 5th, and 10th days in forty patients admitted within second of an ischemic stroke. The clinical status of the patients was simultaneously evaluated with the Scandinavian stroke scale. The results were compared with 40 healthy control subjects whose age and sex were matched with the patients. The mean hsCRP levels of the patients were 9.4 ± 7.0 mg/L on the 2nd day, 11.0 ± 7.4 mg/L on the 5th day, and 9.2 ± 7.0 mg/L on the 10th day. The mean hsCRP level of the control subjects was 1.7 ± 2.9 mg/L. The mean hsCRP levels of the patients on the 2nd, 5th, and 10th days were significantly higher than the control subjects (P < .001). The patients' mean homocysteine levels were 40.6 ± 9.6 μmol/L on the 2nd day, 21.7 ± 11.1 μmol/L on the 5th day, and 20.7 ± 9.2 μmol/L on the 10th day. The mean homocysteine level of the control subjects was 11.2 ± 1.1 μmol/L. The homocysteine levels of the patients were higher than the control subjects at all times (P < .01). In conclusion, patients with stroke have a higher circulating serum hsCRP and homocysteine levels. Short-term unfavorable prognosis seems to be associated with elevated serum hsCRP levels in patients with stroke. Although serum homocysteine was found to be higher, homocysteine seems not related to prognosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b2/26/PMC1892643.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3451752", "abstract": "We describe the case of a patient with atypical hemiplegic migraine and associated basilar symptoms, where a large patent foramen ovale (PFO) and hypoplasia of basilar artery were found. The longer period of 4-year remission of the headache attacks was coincident with the percutaneous PFO closure. When 5 years after, hemiplegic migraine attacks relapsed, with more relevant basilar symptoms, a mild re-opening of PFO was found. The atypical presentation of attacks with basilar symptoms and prolonged hemiplegia does not strictly fit the diagnostic criteria of ICHD-II.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/71/2a/PMC3451752.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3447287", "abstract": "Influenza A viruses cause acute respiratory disease in swine. Viruses with H1 hemagglutinin genes from the human seasonal lineage (δ-cluster) have been isolated from North American swine since 2003. The objective of this work was to study the pathogenesis and transmission of δ-cluster H1 influenza viruses in swine, comparing three isolates from different phylogenetic subclusters, geographic locations, and years of isolation. Two isolates from the δ2 subcluster, A/sw/MN/07002083/07 H1N1 (MN07) and A/sw/IL/00685/05 H1N1 (IL05), and A/sw/TX/01976/08 H1N2 (TX08) from the δ1 sub-cluster were evaluated. All isolates caused disease and were transmitted to contact pigs. Respiratory disease was apparent in pigs infected with MN07 and IL05 viruses; however, clinical signs and lung lesions were reduced in severity as compared to TX08. On day 5 following infection MN07-infected pigs had lower virus titers than the TX08 pigs, suggesting that although this H1N1 was successfully transmitted, it may not replicate as efficiently in the upper or lower respiratory tract. MN07 and IL05 H1N1 induced higher serum antibody titers than TX08. Greater serological cross-reactivity was observed for viruses from the same HA phylogenetic sub-cluster; however, antigenic differences between the sub-clusters may have implications for disease control strategies for pigs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/c0/PMC3447287.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3672587", "abstract": "A meta-analysis of parenteral fish oil in 23 studies in intensive care unit (ICU) and non-ICU patients reported a reduced infection rate (significant in ICU patients) and shorter lengths of ICU and hospital stays (both non-ICU and ICU patients). Parenteral fish oil reduced inflammation and improved oxygenation index and liver function. The findings of the meta-analysis are discussed in this report.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/b6/PMC3672587.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4905253", "abstract": "Tumor cells manage their energy to support aberrant proliferation by reprogramming their cellular metabolism, for example through the Warburg effect. Although AMPK is a major regulator of energy homeostasis, its role in cancer metabolic adaptation is unclear. We recently identified the tumor suppressor folliculin as a new regulator of AMPK-dependent metabolic transformation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/19/kmco-01-02-961819.PMC4905253.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3917184", "abstract": "Background: The purpose of this qualitative exploratory study was to explore the views of nursing trainers and students about nursing students’ clinical evaluation problems and drawbacks in Shiraz Nursing and Midwifery School. Materials and Methods: A qualitative exploratory approach was used in this study at Shiraz Nursing and Midwifery School in 2012. A purposeful sample of 8 nursing instructors and 40 nursing students was interviewed and the data on their opinions about the problems of the clinical evaluation were collected through semi-structured deep interviews. Initially, four open-ended questions, which were related to the clinical evaluation status, problems, were used to stimulate discussions in the interview sessions. Content analysis was employed in order to analyze the transcribed data. The recorded interviews were initially transcribed, read, and reread on a number of occasions to get an overall feeling of what the participants were saying. Each line or incident was described, and then a code, which reflected the essence of the participants’ comments, was given. Results: The codes were compared for similarity and differences, merged together, and categorized. Finally, five themes emerged: In appropriate clinical evaluation method, problems of clinical evaluation Process, problems related to clinical instructors, unsuitable programming of clinical education, and organizational shortcomings. Conclusion: Besides focusing on upgrading the current clinical evaluation forms, nursing trainers should improve their knowledge about a complete and comprehensive clinical evaluation. They should also apply other appropriate and objective clinical evaluation methods and tools, and perform a formative and summative clinical evaluation. Also, workload adjustment of the nursing trainers needs revision. Therefore, despite using traditional and sometimes limited evaluation methods for assessing nursing students, a co mprehensive and appropriate evaluation of nursing students’ clinical competencies seems necessary.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/8d/IJNMR-19-41.PMC3917184.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4003551", "abstract": "Objective: Clinical laboratory test data obtained prior to treatments were previously analyzed from the standpoint of susceptibility to hypersensitivity reactions in patients treated with the platimun anticancer agent, oxaliplatin (L-OHP). In the present study, the time course from the first to last cycle of the treatment was additionally analyzed to determine a better predictor of these reactions. Methods: A total of 20 laboratory test data were obtained from 108 Japanese patients with advanced colorectal cancer who were treated with the L-OHP-containing regimens, FOLFOX4 and/or mFOLFOX6. The averages and variation coefficients (CV", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/af/18/ijmsv11p0641.PMC4003551.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4964705", "abstract": "abstract The introduction of combination vaccines plays a significant role in increasing vaccine acceptance and widening vaccine coverage. Primary vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis and Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) diseases has been implemented in Vietnam. In this study we evaluated the safety and reactogenicity of combined diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis-inactivated polio (DTPa-IPV)/Hib vaccine when administered as a booster dose in 300 healthy Vietnamese children <2 years of age (mean age: 15.8 months). During the 4-day follow-up period, pain (31.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/46/khvi-12-03-1084451.PMC4964705.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3885850", "abstract": " [Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of different types of bridging exercises on the activities of the trunk muscles. [Methods] Twenty-four students participated in this experiment. The activities of the internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO), rectus abdominis (RA), and erector spinae (ES) muscles were measured in four different bridging exercises. [Results] There were significant differences in the IO, EO, RA, and ES among the four kinds of bridging exercise. The activities of IO, EO and RA were the highest in prone bridging (exercise 4), followed by unilateral bridging (exercise 3), and supine bridging on balance pads (exercise 2). In conventional bridging (exercise 1), the activities of IO, EO, and RA were the lowest. The activity of ES was the highest in exercise 3 followed by exercises 2 and 1. The activity of ES was the lowest than in exercise 1. [Conclusions] Bridging exercise in the prone position may be a more effective method of enhancing trunk muscle activities exercises in other positions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/9c/jpts-25-1609.PMC3885850.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2797981", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To compare recent U.S. and U.K. guidelines on gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The guidelines from the American Diabetes Association, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) in the U.K. were collated and compared using a general inductive approach. RESULTS There are substantial differences in the recommendations between the U.K. and the U.S. guidelines. Of particular note are the reduced sensitivities of the early and later antenatal and postnatal screening and diagnostic criteria. NICE undertook a cost-effectiveness analysis using lower prevalence estimates and limited outcomes and still showed screening for GDM to be cost-effective. CONCLUSIONS The latest NICE recommendations appear to reduce access to proven, cost-effective management of GDM, an issue relevant in the current U.S. health care policy debate.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4f/29/zdc34.PMC2797981.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3317078", "abstract": " Objective. We assessed adolescent anthropometry, lipids, insulin, glucose, and blood pressures to identify factors associated with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and its tracking in young adults. Methods. Ten-year prospective study of 589 schoolgirls, 321 black, 268 white. Results. HsCRP did not differ (P > .08) by race or oral contraceptive use. HsCRP tracked from age 16 to 25 (r = 0.77), 16 to 26 (r = 0.50), 24 to 26 (r = 0.66), and 25 to 26 (r = 0.71), all P ≤ .02. By stepwise regression, at age 16, waist circumference accounted for 44.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1d/79/PMC3317078.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4860450", "abstract": "Diffuse increased fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) avidity on positron emission tomography (PET) scans has been demonstrated in patients with chronic thyroiditis, likely secondary to increased inflammatory cell glucose uptake. A complex association has been demonstrated between breast cancer and thyroid disease, although the mechanism remains elusive. Development of chronic thyroiditis and/or goiter in breast cancer patients has been suggested to convey a more favorable prognosis. Goiter extension is almost exclusively into retrosternal space, with only a handful of cases reported with superior extension into retropharyngeal space. We present a rare case of a diffusely enlarged goiter extending superior and posterior into the retropharyngeal space with an associated intense 18F-FDG avidity standardized uptake value maximum (SUVmax) of 16.1 in a patient with invasive ductal breast cancer. To our knowledge, this represents the first published case of diffusely 18F-FDG avid goiter with retropharyngeal extension.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/44/JCIS-6-13.PMC4860450.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4452340", "abstract": " Objective. To evaluate whether serum titers of second-generation anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP2) are associated with the severity and extent of interstitial lung disease in rheumatoid arthritis (RA-ILD). Methods. In across-sectional study, 39 RA-ILD patients confirmed by high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were compared with 42 RA without lung involvement (RA only). Characteristics related to RA-ILD were assessed in all of the patients and serum anti-CCP2 titers quantified. Results. Higher anti-CCP2 titers were found in RA-ILD compared with RA only (medians 77.9 versus 30.2 U/mL, P < 0.001). In the logistic regression analysis after adjustment for age, disease duration (DD), smoke exposure, disease activity, functioning, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and methotrexate (MTX) treatment duration, the characteristics associated with RA-ILD were higher anti-CCP2 titers (P = 0.003) and + RF (P = 0.002). In multivariate linear regression, the variables associated with severity of ground-glass score were anti-CCP2 titers (P = 0.02) and with fibrosis score DD (P = 0.01), anti-CCP2 titers (P < 0.001), and MTX treatment duration (P < 0.001). Conclusions. Anti-CCP2 antibodies are markers of severity and extent of RA-ILD in HRCT. Further longitudinal studies are required to identify if higher anti-CCP2 titers are associated with worst prognosis in RA-ILD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/9b/PMC4452340.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4344651", "abstract": "Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease has become a worldwide challenge. Liver biopsy remains the single most reliable approach to determine the severity of this disease. As patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease require close follow-up, performing this invasive method repeatedly seems impractical; therefore, designing a noninvasive system to follow up patients has become a common interest. Objectives: We intended to investigate the association between platelet counts of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and the severity of their disease based on serum levels of liver enzymes and grade of fatty liver on ultrasonography. Patients and Methods: One thousand, three hundred and five patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease were included in this descriptive study. Serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and platelet counts of patients were measured. The grade of fatty liver was determined by abdominal ultrasonography. Results: Of our study population, 54.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/22/hepatmon-15-01-24449.PMC4344651.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3161263", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE In vitro evidence suggests insulin glargine promotes tumors; observational human studies are conflicting. We aimed to expand understanding of this potential treatment risk. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This retrospective cohort study of type 2 diabetic patients >68 years old used Medicare inpatient, outpatient (2003–2008), and prescription data (2006–2008). Adjusting for patient characteristics, dose, and metformin use, Cox models yielded hazard ratios (HRs) for incident cancer (breast, prostate, pancreas, colon, any site) associated with three forms of insulin: nonglargine, glargine, or glargine plus nonglargine (combination). RESULTS Overall, 81,681 patients were followed for a mean of 23.1 months. Mean age was 77.4 years. Treatment group distribution was 20.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c8/f3/1965.PMC3161263.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3481990", "abstract": "Objective The purpose of this study was to develop superimposition method on the lower arch using 3-dimensional (3D) cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images and orthodontic 3D digital modeling. Methods Integrated 3D CBCT images were acquired by substituting the dental portion of 3D CBCT images with precise dental images of an orthodontic 3D digital model. Images were acquired before and after treatment. For the superimposition, 2 superimposition methods were designed. Surface superimposition was based on the basal bone structure of the mandible by surface-to-surface matching (best-fit method). Plane superimposition was based on anatomical structures (mental and lingual foramen). For the evaluation, 10 landmarks including teeth and anatomic structures were assigned, and 30 times of superimpositions and measurements were performed to determine the more reproducible and reliable method. Results All landmarks demonstrated that the surface superimposition method produced relatively more consistent coordinate values. The mean distances of measured landmarks values from the means were statistically significantly lower with the surface superimpositions method. Conclusions Between the 2 superimposition methods designed for the evaluation of 3D changes in the lower arch, surface superimposition was the simpler, more reproducible, reliable method.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/af/kjod-42-169.PMC3481990.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4327642", "abstract": "Objective: The time of contact between the product and enamel surface is important in ensuring the efficacy of fluoride varnishes. Thus, some alternatives could avoid fluoride loss to saliva and improve the anticariogenic action of the product. This study evaluated the effect of an experimental coat on the anticariogenic action of fluoride varnishes. Material and Methods: Enamel bovine blocks were selected by evaluating surface microhardness and randomized into five groups (n=24): placebo, Duraphat™, Duraphat™ with coat, Duofluorid™ and Duofluorid™ with coat. Twelve blocks from each group were used to analyze calcium fluoride (CaF2) formed on enamel after treatment. The other 12 blocks were subjected to pH cycling for 7 days. The varnishes were kept on enamel for 6 h. Next, the percentage change of surface microhardness (", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dc/62/1678-7757-jaos-17-04-0280.PMC4327642.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2874335", "abstract": "Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS) is a triad of total external ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and areflexia, while botulism has the usual clinical presentation of involvement of cranial muscles and palsies with blurred vision, diplopia, ptosis, dilated pupils, and facial paralysis, caused by a bacterial neurotoxin which attacks proteins involved in presynaptic vesicle release. In this report, we needed to make the differential diagnosis between MFS and botulism in a patient who presented with acute ophthalmoparesis and a history of diarrhea three days before, which started two days after consuming tinned food. Routine laboratory, neurophysiologic, and imaging investigations were normal. A clinical diagnosis of Miller Fisher syndrome was reached by anti-ganglioside GQ1B and GM1 Ig G and M antibody investigations which proved positive. The patient was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin two weeks after (in the late period) the symptoms started and he has recovered completely. Systemic autoimmune diseases should be considered in patients with bilateral ophthalmoparesis. As in the present patient, the evaluation of specific antibodies helps in the diagnosis and thus early effective treatment is possible.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/6e/PMC2874335.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3060391", "abstract": "We report a case of tectonic corneal transplantation for impending corneal perforation to preserve anatomic integrity using cryopreserved donor tissue. An 82-year-old woman exhibiting impending corneal perforation suffered from moderate ocular pain in the left eye for one week. After abnormal tissues around the impending perforation area were carefully peeled away using a Crescent blade and Vannas scissors, the patient received tectonic deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty using a cryopreserved cornea stored in Optisol GS® solution at -70℃ for four weeks. At six months after surgery, the cornea remained transparent and restored the normal corneal thickness. There were no complications such as corneal haze or scars, graft rejection, recurrent corneal ulcer, and postoperative rise of intraocular pressure. Cryopreserved donor lamellar tissue is an effective substitute in emergency tectonic lamellar keratoplasty, such as impending corneal perforation and severe necrotic corneal keratitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0d/f8/kjo-25-132.PMC3060391.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2832872", "abstract": "The plasma proteins of the complement system are essential in the innate immune response against bacteria. Complement labels bacteria with opsonins to support phagocytosis and generates chemoattractants to attract phagocytes to the site of infection. In turn, bacterial human pathogens have evolved different strategies to specifically impair the complement response. Here, we review the large arsenal of complement inhibitors produced by the gram-positive pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Group A Streptococcus. We discuss how these bacterial molecules provide us with new tools to treat both infectious and inflammatory disease conditions in humans.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b4/66/109_2009_Article_572.PMC2832872.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2731532", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE SH2B1 is a SH2 domain-containing adaptor protein expressed in both the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. Neuronal SH2B1 controls body weight; however, the functions of peripheral SH2B1 remain unknown. Here, we studied peripheral SH2B1 regulation of insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We generated TgKO mice expressing SH2B1 in the brain but not peripheral tissues. Various metabolic parameters and insulin signaling were examined in TgKO mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). The effect of SH2B1 on the insulin receptor catalytic activity and insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1/IRS-2 dephosphorylation was examined using in vitro kinase assays and in vitro dephosphorylation assays, respectively. SH2B1 was coexpressed with PTP1B, and insulin receptor–mediated phosphorylation of IRS-1 was examined. RESULTS Deletion of peripheral SH2B1 markedly exacerbated HFD-induced hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and glucose intolerance in TgKO mice. Insulin signaling was dramatically impaired in muscle, liver, and adipose tissue in TgKO mice. Deletion of SH2B1 impaired insulin signaling in primary hepatocytes, whereas SH2B1 overexpression stimulated insulin receptor autophosphorylation and tyrosine phosphorylation of IRSs. Purified SH2B1 stimulated insulin receptor catalytic activity in vitro. The SH2 domain of SH2B1 was both required and sufficient to promote insulin receptor activation. Insulin stimulated the binding of SH2B1 to IRS-1 or IRS-2. This physical interaction inhibited tyrosine dephosphorylation of IRS-1 or IRS-2 and increased the ability of IRS proteins to activate the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway. CONCLUSIONS SH2B1 is an endogenous insulin sensitizer. It directly binds to insulin receptors, IRS-1 and IRS-2, and enhances insulin sensitivity by promoting insulin receptor catalytic activity and by inhibiting tyrosine dephosphorylation of IRS proteins.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/68/zdb2039.PMC2731532.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3860145", "abstract": " Aim. To compare the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness between women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and healthy women. Materials and Methods. The study included 88 eyes of 44 women (group 1) with PCOS and 84 eyes of 42 healthy women (group 2). In all subjects, the RNFL and ganglion cell complex (GCC) thicknesses were measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT). In addition, visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), refractive errors, central macular thickness (CMT), central corneal thickness (CCT), and excavation of optic disc were evaluated in all subjects. Results. Mean values of GCC, IOP, VA, CMT, CCT, and refractive errors were similar between the 2 groups. The average RNFL, superior average RNFL, and inferior average RNFL thicknesses were higher in subjects with PCOS than in healthy subjects (P = 0.003, P = 0.012, and P = 0.009), respectively. Conclusion. The average RNFL, superior average RNFL, and inferior average RNFL thicknesses in women with PCOS were significantly higher than in healthy women.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/44/a9/PMC3860145.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4147660", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Long term survivors of breast cancer are at risk of developing distant metastasis years after the initial treatment. We report a case of breast adenocarcinoma with colonic polyp metastases, as well as synchronous primary colonic adenocarcinoma and a gastric GIST. PRESENTATION OF CASE An 83 year old female underwent colonoscopy for rectal bleeding. This showed a primary colonic adenocarcinoma, a pedunculated polyp in the ascending colon and two polyps in the sigmoid colon. A staging CT scan did not show distant metastasis, but revealed a small gastric GIST which was managed conservatively. A right hemicolectomy showed a T3N0 colonic adenocarcinoma and a polyp contained metastatic adenocarcinoma from a breast primary. The patient had undergone surgery 30 years ago for an invasive lobular carcinoma. Further clinical assessment demonstrated an impalpable grade II Invasive ductal carcinoma in the contralateral breast. She was started on hormonal treatment and at 18 months follow-up, she was well with stable disease. DISCUSSION Invasive lobular cancer is the most common histological type of breast cancer that metastasizes to the colon. There is no consensus on the management of breast cancer metastasis to the gastrointestinal tract. Co-existence of a GIST and an adenocarcinoma at two separate locations is uncommon. These are two different cancer entities and it is unclear whether these two are related by as causal relationship. CONCLUSION This is a rare case of three distinct tumours; association between them is unlikely. However, the case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7a/24/main.PMC4147660.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3246723", "abstract": " Objectives. This paper focuses on current diagnostic and treatment options for Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EE). Study Design. literature review. Results. EE can be suspected on history and endoscopy although definitive diagnosis is strictly based on histopathology. It is a relatively new entity and is often misdiagnosed as gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). Eosinophilic infiltration of the esophageal mucosa is responsible for esophageal symptoms which can range from mild to debilitating dysphagia and food impaction, when untreated. In fact recurrent foreign body and food impaction can often be blamed for undiagnosed EE. There seems to be a strong familial component and association with allergy. The introduction of transnasal esophagoscopy in adult laryngology has enabled otolaryngologists to readily diagnose EE and promoted awareness of this often difficult to recognize entity. Conclusions. Despite higher awareness, the literature suggests that EE remains a commonly misdiagnosed condition especially in the otolaryngology community. Genetic studies are required to unfold the true familial and genetic component of this fascinating entity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bc/e6/PMC3246723.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3417368", "abstract": "Since the 1980s, the incidence of severe pulmonary hemorrhage caused by Leptospira spp. infection has increased. The mild, non-specific symptoms or the more classical form of severe disease with hepatorenal manifestations, Weil’s syndrome, predominate world-wide. However, several regions of the world have seen increases in numbers of patients with pulmonary hemorrhage attributed to leptospirosis. The reasons behind the emergence of this syndrome, which carries a high mortality rate, are not known. Several avenues for future research may shed light on the mechanisms involved in development of pulmonary hemorrhage, and inform targeted therapeutics to improve outcomes. Possibilities to consider include: (1) emergence of new bacterial strains, (2) acquisition of virulence traits by strains in the endemic regions, (3) changes in underlying health of the affected human populations, and (4) increased recognition of the syndrome and better record keeping by the medical and veterinary communities. Determining the causes of emerging clinical manifestations presents challenges and opportunities for potentially life-saving research into the pathogenesis of a number of infectious diseases, including leptospirosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/18/e3/fcimb-01-00024.PMC3417368.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5337771", "abstract": "Most common tumors of the spleen are hematologic and lymphoid malignancies. Non-lymphoid and non-hematologic tumors of the spleen are very rare, the most common of which are vascular tumors. This group of tumors in the spleen is composed of heterogeneous tumors such as hemangioma, angioendothelioma (AE), littoral cell angioma, and angiosarcoma. There are several histologic forms of AE such as epithelioid AE, Kaposiform AE, and myoid AE. Among these splenic vascular tumors, myoid angioendothelioma (MAE) seems to be the least common type. It is a distinct tumor; composed of endothelium-derived tumor cells and a special type of stromal tumor cells that seems to have borderline low-grade malignant potential. Herein, we report our experience with a young woman presented with chronic abdominal pain and splenic mass that turned out to be myoid AE of spleen with an uneventful surgery and excellent recovery period. To the best of our knowledge, such an occurrence is very rare in the spleen.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/ae/IJMS-42-89.PMC5337771.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2951109", "abstract": "Orthodontic lingual root movement (torque) is an important aspect of treatment biomechanics and is typically achieved by torsion of a rectangular wire within the orthodontic bracket slot which introduces a force couple. The magnitude of the force moment achieved by wire torsion may be influenced by deformation of the orthodontic bracket. A device utilizing an optical image correlation technique has been developed to accurately quantify bracket slot dimensional changes during application of wire torsion. Simultaneous torque moment magnitude, degrees of wire twist, and bracket slot dimension data can be gathered. Bracket tie wing elastic deformation when loaded was demonstrated and plastic deformation was also observed with a single rotation of the wire.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9b/0f/PMC2951109.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4204721", "abstract": "Gastrocolocutaneous fistula is a rare complication of the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) procedure. Typical symptoms usually occur in the first few months. We recently encountered 2 patients with 8- and 33-month asymptomatic periods. A 74-year-old man presented with watery diarrhea for 1 month. He had undergone PEG 9 months earlier. During workup, an upper endoscopy and abdominal CT scan revealed the migration of the feeding tube into the transverse colon. He was discharged with a nasogastric tube after treatment. A 77-year-old man presented with sudden loosening of his PEG tube with a duration over 3 days. He had undergone PEG procedure three times until that time. During workup, a gastrocolocutaneous fistula was diagnosed. However, when previous studies were reviewed, an abdominal CT scan, which was done 6 months ago before the third PEG, showed the fistula already existed at that time, suggesting that it was created about 33 months earlier when he underwent the second PEG procedure. The patient died of pneumonia aggravation despite conservative treatment. Both a high index of suspicion and the careful inspection of the upper endoscopy are very important for early diagnosis regardless of symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/92/ir-12-251.PMC4204721.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4833472", "abstract": "Dietary nitrate supplementation has been shown to reduce oxygen consumption at a fixed work rate. We questioned whether a similar effect would be observed during variable work rate exercise at a specific rating of perceived exertion (RPE), as is commonly prescribed for aerobic training sessions. Using a double-blind, placebo controlled, crossover design, ten females (25 ± 3 years; VO2peak 37.1 ± 5.3 ml/kg/min) performed two 20-min cycle ergometer trials at a constant RPE of 13 (somewhat hard) 2.5 hours following ingestion of 140 ml of concentrated beetroot juice (12.9 mmol nitrate), or nitrate-depleted placebo. Performance was measured in terms of total VO2 (L) consumed and total mechanical work (kJ) accomplished across each trial. Following each experimental trial, subjects rode at 75W for an additional 5 min to determine the effect of beetroot juice on fixed work rate exercise. Coefficients of variation in total VO2 (L) and work performed (kJ) during the RPE 13 clamp trials were 8.2 and 9.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/39/PMC4833472.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3278850", "abstract": "The market authorization procedure for medicinal products for human use is relying on their demonstrated efficacy, safety, and pharmaceutical quality. This applies to all medicinal products whether of chemical or biological origin. Since October 2009, the first advanced therapy medicinal product (ATMP) has been authorized through the centralized procedure. ATMPs are gene therapy medicinal products, somatic cell therapy medicinal products or tissue-engineered products. An appropriate ATMP – Regulation is dealing with ATMP requirements. Two exemptions are foreseen to the ATMP Regulation: (a) Products, which were legally on the Community market when the Regulation became applicable, should comply to the Regulation by December 30, 2012. (b) The hospital exemption rule for non-routine products for an individual patient. In this work we explored whether the actual application of the Regulation on ATMPs is in line with the aim of the Regulation in terms of guaranteeing the highest level of health protection for patients. Based on the analysis of the relative efficacy of the only EC authorized ATMP and its exempted alternatives, there is evidence against this Regulation 1394/2007 assumption.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7b/ae/fphar-03-00012.PMC3278850.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5307607", "abstract": " Background: Women-headed households are more exposed to social damages than other women. Such condition remarkably influences the women’s health-related life quality. The present study is aimed to investigate the effect of an educational intervention in quality of life of women-headed households under protection of Tehran Welfare Organization, in 2015.   Methods: In this quasi-experimental study with control group, 180 women-headed households participated. Sampling method was random allocation. Data collection tools were Life Quality standard questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) and a researcher-made questionnaire about structures of ecological and educational diagnosis phase of PRECEDE-PROCEED model. Validity and reliability of the questionnaire approved in a primary study. Based on the results obtained from the primary study, the intervention was performed in the case group only. Participants were followed one and three months after intervention. Data were analyzed through SPSS v. 15 software using descriptive and analytical tests.   Results: Before intervention no significant difference was observed among the mean scores of life quality, behavioral factors, and knowledge, enabling, and reinforcing factors in the two groups. But, one month and three months after intervention a significant difference was observed between the mean scores of these variables (in five instances p<0.001).   Conclusion: Intervention through the PRECEDE-PROCEED model improved the women-headed households’ quality of life. The innovation of this study is using such intervention on quality of life in women-headed households for the first time. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f7/18/mjiri-30-417.PMC5307607.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3108240", "abstract": "When prescribing hemodialysis in children, the clinician should first establish an adequate regimen, before seeking to optimize the treatment (Fischbach et al. 2005). A complete dialysis dose should consist of a urea dialysis dose and a determined convective volume. Intensified and more frequent dialysis regimens should not be considered exclusively as rescue therapy. Interestingly, a recent single-center study demonstrated that frequent on-line HDF provides an optimal dialysis prescription, both in terms of blood pressure control (and therefore avoidance of left ventricular hypertrophy), and catch-up growth, that is, no malnutrition or cachexia and less resistance to growth hormone. Nevertheless, this one-center experience would benefit from a prospective randomized study.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/60/b7/PMC3108240.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3227508", "abstract": "Attention is crucial for encoding information into memory, and current dual-process models seek to explain the roles of attention in both recollection memory and incidental-perceptual memory processes. The present study combined an incidental memory paradigm with event-related functional MRI to examine the effect of attention at encoding on the subsequent neural activation associated with unintended perceptual memory for spoken words. At encoding, we systematically varied attention levels as listeners heard a list of single English nouns. We then presented these words again in the context of a recognition task and assessed the effect of modulating attention at encoding on the BOLD responses to words that were either attended strongly, weakly, or not heard previously. MRI revealed activity in right-lateralized inferior parietal and prefrontal regions, and positive BOLD signals varied with the relative level of attention present at encoding. Temporal analysis of hemodynamic responses further showed that the time course of BOLD activity was modulated differentially by unintentionally encoded words compared to novel items. Our findings largely support current models of memory consolidation and retrieval, but they also provide fresh evidence for hemispheric differences and functional subdivisions in right frontoparietal attention networks that help shape auditory episodic recall.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/00/22/PMC3227508.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3769540", "abstract": "Arbuscular mycorrhizas (AM) have mutualistic symbiosis with plants and thus efforts have been placed on application of these symbiotic relationships to agricultural and environmental fields. In this study, AM fungi were collected from 25 sites growing with 16 host plant species in Korea and cultured with Sorghum bicolor in greenhouse condition. AM fungal spores were extracted and identified using both morphological and molecular methods. Using morphological characters, total 15 morpho-speices were identified. DNA was extracted from single spore of AM fungi and a partial region on 18S rDNA was amplified using nested PCR with AM fungal specific primers AML1/AML2. A total of 36 18S rDNA sequences were analyzed for phylogenetic analysis and 15 groups of AM fungi were identified using both morphological and molecular data of spores. Among the species, 4 species, Archaeospora leptoticha, Scutellospora castanea, S. cerradensis, S. weresubiae were described for the first time in Korea and two species in Glomus and a species in Gigaspora were not identified. Morphological and molecular identification of AM fungal spores in this study would help identify AM fungal community colonizing roots.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c8/d6/mb-34-7.PMC3769540.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4200361", "abstract": "Objective Propofol and volatile anesthesia have been associated with metabolic acidosis induced by increased lactate. This study was designed to evaluate changes in pH, base excess (BE), and lactate in response to different anesthetic agents and to characterize propofol infusion-associated lactic acidosis. Methods The medical records of patients undergoing neurosurgical anesthesia between January 2005 and September 2012 were examined. Patients were divided into 2 groups : those who received propofol (total intravenous anesthesia, TIVA) and those who received sevoflurane (balanced inhalation anesthesia, BIA) anesthesia. Propensity analysis was performed (1 : 1 match, n=47), and the characteristics of the patients who developed severe acidosis were recorded. Results In the matched TIVA and BIA groups, the incidence of metabolic acidosis (11", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/46/jkns-56-135.PMC4200361.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3364476", "abstract": "Purpose Unilateral low loop cutaneous ureterostomy (LLCU) has been offered as the preferred method of temporary urinary diversion in cases of massively dilated and refluxing ureters. We sought to explore whether LLCU is effective in preserving urinary bladder function in the long term. Materials and Methods The charts of all patients who had undergone temporary unilateral LLCU as newborns in the presence of massive vesico-ureteric reflux were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, follow-up length, and presence of incontinence were recorded. Patients were interviewed regarding lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and their urination patterns were recorded by using uroflow and post-void residual (PVR) measurements. Results Between 1972 and 2003, a total of 24 patients underwent unilateral LLCU in the presence of massively refluxing ureters. Eight patients were included in the final analysis. The median age at diversion was 12 days, the median time to closure was 22.5 months, and the median follow-up was 12.5 years. Urinary bladders showed normal contour, normal capacities, and minimal PVRs in most cases. None of the patients required augmentation cystoplasty. One patient suffered from urinary leakage and few demonstrated minimal LUTS. Conclusions Unilateral refluxing LLCU is an effective method of urinary diversion that preserves urinary bladder function for the long term. Larger studies are required to confirm this finding.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/d2/kju-53-355.PMC3364476.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4537731", "abstract": "Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is hemoconcentration with platelets concentration above baseline values and high concentration of many growth factors. The aim of this study was to assess freezing effect on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) release from PRP using two different activation methods to simplify its use in different clinical applications. PRP was prepared using two-centrifugation steps method from 12 qualified blood donors. VEGF concentrations were measured in fresh PRP and after freezing/thawing for one and three weeks with two methods of activation using (i) calcium gluconate and (ii) calcium gluconate and thrombin. Platelets count was significantly increased compared to baseline whole blood values in all fresh and frozen PRP samples (p value was <0.05). No significant difference was found between VEGF concentrations after activating fresh and frozen-thawed PRP samples for one and three weeks by calcium alone or calcium with thrombin, and also no significant difference was found when freezing period was extended from one to three weeks. Our results showed that platelets count does not correlate with variable levels of VEGF. PRP could be prepared once and preserved frozen for at least three weeks for the next treatment sessions and activation with thrombin addition to calcium will not augment the growth factor release.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/d5/PMC4537731.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5305094", "abstract": "Background and aim Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is a process whereby the application of a force induces bone resorption on the pressure side and bone apposition on the tension side of the lamina dura. However, only limited data are available on the in vivo behavior of the periodontal tissues. The aim of this study was to assess the changes of periodontal tissues, induced by the orthodontic canine retraction, using 40 MHz ultrasonography. Methods Ultrasonographic evaluation of periodontal tissues was conducted in 5 patients with indication for orthodontic treatment. The upper first premolars were extracted bilaterally due to severe crowding, and the canines were distalized using elastomeric chain with a net force of 100 cN. Ultrasonographic scans (US scans) were performed before, during and after retraction, in three distinct areas of the canines buccal surface: mesial, middle and distal. The reference point was the bracket, which appeared hyperechoic on the US scan. Four different dimensions were obtained: D1 (depth of the sulcus), D2 (thickness of the gingiva), D3 (length of the supracrestal fibers), D4 (width of periodontal space). Results An increase of D1 was observed in all three areas of the periodontium, during orthodontic treatment. D3 was strongly correlated before and immediately after force delivery only for the mesial area (r=0.828, p<0.05). In total, 228 variables were statistically analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficients, in order to demonstrate the relationship between periodontal findings during orthodontic tooth movement. Conclusion High-resolution ultrasonography has the capability to obviate changes in periodontal ligament space and free gingiva during orthodontic tooth movement.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d7/25/cm-90-93.PMC5305094.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3702017", "abstract": "There have been considerable advances in the past few years in our understanding of how chronic kidney disease (CKD) predisposes to acute kidney injury (AKI) and vice versa. This review shows, however, that few studies have focused on the elderly or conducted stratified analysis by age. It does appear that elderly patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 45–59 ml/min/1.73 m2 are at higher risk for AKI compared with their counterparts with eGFR >60 ml/min/1.73 m2. This is a similar relationship to that seen in younger patients, although effect size appears smaller. As the incidence of AKI has been increasing over the past several years, the proportion of elderly patients surviving after AKI has also been increasing. Since AKI heightens the risk for the development and acceleration of CKD, this implies significant public health concerns with regard to the absolute number of elderly persons developing incident CKD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/5c/PMC3702017.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3302112", "abstract": " Objective. To describe the characteristics of obstetric and perinatal outcome of a group of pregnancies complicated by an anencephalic fetus. Methods. Observational study including anencephalic fetuses, divided into groups according to the evolution of pregnancy: elective termination of pregnancy ETP; stillbirths (SBs); live births (LBs), and loss of follow-up. After a univariate description of the sample, some variables were compared using statistical tests. Results. 180 anencephalic fetuses were included. The mean maternal age was 25.3 years. In 71 fetuses (39", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/f1/PMC3302112.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2971721", "abstract": "Intrauterine progestins have many important current and potential gynecologic applications. This article describes the evidence for use of intrauterine progestin for common gynecologic conditions beyond its important role in contraception. The pharmacology of and selection criteria for use of the levonorgestrel intrauterine device is discussed, and the evidence for use of intrauterine progestin delivery for menorrhagia, endometriosis management, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis and endometrial hyperplasia is reviewed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/10/3a/PMC2971721.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3687262", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To assess the prognostic role of multidetector computed tomography coronary angiography (MDCT-CA) in patients with diabetes with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Use of MDCT-CA is increasing in patients with suspected CAD. However, data supporting its prognostic value in patients with diabetes are limited. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Between January 2006 and September 2007, 429 consecutive diabetic patients were prospectively studied with MDCT-CA for detecting the presence and assessing the extent of CAD (disease extension and coronary plaque scores). Patients were classified according to the presence of normal coronary arteries and nonobstructive (<50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b5/ad/1834.PMC3687262.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3767322", "abstract": "The work described herein employs potassium hydroxide impregnated alumina (KOH-alumina) as a mild, efficient, and recyclable catalyst for a one-pot solvent-free and environmentally safer synthesis of 3,4,6-triarylpyridazines and some substituted pyridazines from active methylene carbonyl species, 1,2-dicarbonyls, and hydrazine hydrate by microwave (MW) irradiation. The method offers highly convergent, inexpensive, and functionality-tolerable procedure for rapid access to important pyridazine compounds in good yields.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/00/PMC3767322.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4701115", "abstract": "Introduction: Bony hemangiomas are rare lesions in growing skeleton. Affection of the epiphyseal plate by a bony hemangioma leading to growth retardation is rare. Case report: We report the radiological picture of a juxtaphyseal osseous hemangioma affecting the capital femoral physis leading to coxa vara and coxa breva deformity. This hemangioma is also a rarity as it has both intracortical and intra medullary components. A diagnostic and therapeutic CT guided core needle biopsy/decompression was performed to confirm the histopathological diagnosis and to decompress the lesion. Patient was treated conservatively with shoe raise and regular checkups and at two year follow-up there were no interval changes noted on the radiographs with patient completely asymptomatic. Conclusion: Juxtaphyseal hemangiomas may be amenable to needle decompression, however longer follow will be required to assess the further response.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b3/87/JOCR-1-22.PMC4701115.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5005984", "abstract": "Background: Death of a baby in-utero is a very devastating event to the mother and the family. Most stillbirths occur during labor and birth with other deaths occurring during the antenatal period. Millions of families experience stillbirths, yet these deaths remain uncounted, and policies have not been clearly stipulated to address this issue. The aim of the study was to identify the possible causes of stillbirths as recorded in the medical records. Methods: A retrospective study looking at medical records of women who experienced stillbirths between 1st January 2009 and 31st December 2013 at Nyeri Provincial General Hospital, Kenya. The hospital records containing cases of stillbirths were retrieved and data abstraction forms were used to collect data and information. Results: Both fresh and macerated stillbirths were equally common. The stillbirth rate was 12.2 per 1,000 births. There was significant association between stillbirths and the clients who were referred and reason for referral, (p=0.029) and (p=0.005), respectively. The number of ANC visits during pregnancy was also significant (p=0.05). Mode of delivery and the reason for cesarean section were significantly associated with stillbirths, (p=0.003) and (p=0.032), respectively. The type of labor and delivery complications experienced was associated with stillbirths (p= 0.022). Conclusion and Global Health Implications: There were several factors associated with stillbirths thus efforts should be made to establish approaches aimed at prevention. Addressing the causes of stillbirths will contribute to reduction of perinatal mortality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/84/IJMA-5-24.PMC5005984.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3262225", "abstract": "Mutation in RAS proteins is one of the most common genetic alterations observed in human and experimentally induced rodent cancers. In vivo, oncogenic mutations have been shown to occur at exons 12, 13, and 61, resulting in any 1 of 19 possible point mutations in a given tumor for a specific RAS isoform. While some studies have suggested a possible role of different mutant alleles in determining tumor severity and phenotype, no general consensus has emerged on the oncogenicity of different mutant alleles in tumor formation and progression. Part of this may be due to a lack of a single, signature pathway that shows significant alterations between different mutations. Rather, it is likely that subtle differences in the activation, or lack thereof, of downstream effectors by different RAS mutant alleles may determine the eventual outcome in terms of tumor phenotype. This paper reviews our current understanding of the potential role of different RAS mutations on tumorigenesis, highlights studies in model cell culture and in vivo systems, and discusses the potential of expression array and computational network modeling to dissect out differences in activated RAS genes in conferring a transforming phenotype.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/5f/fgene-02-00100.PMC3262225.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4479776", "abstract": "Background: The study is planned to correlate the existence of dental anomalies with different types of malocclusion as the occurrence of anomalies is common in malocclusion. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted among 430 patients with different types of malocclusion as 161 patients having Class I, 203 with Class II, and 66 with Class III malocclusion. The age of the patients ranged from 12 to 15 years. Diagnosis was done on the basis of history, clinical, cephalometric, radiographs, and dental cast examination. The level of significance was set at P = 0.05. Results: Most common anomaly was rotation of teeth (18.80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/0a/JIOH-7-61.PMC4479776.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5412552", "abstract": "Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure that combines the use of endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat pancreaticobiliary disorders. The risks of ERCP include pancreatitis, infection, bleeding and perforation. Bleeding during ERCP typically develops after sphincterotomy, hence patients should be screened and tested for coagulopathy before undergoing ERCP. Coagulopathy is a major risk factor for ERCP-related bleeding. Inherited factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive hemorrhagic disorder that can lead to significant coagulopathy and severe bleeding if not appropriately recognized and treated preoperatively. Clinically, the disease ranges between an asymptomatic state to lethal hemorrhage and the degree of FVII deficiency does not correlate with the severity of bleeding. The use of FVII replacement therapy has been reported to prevent bleeding during surgery. We present the first report of a patient with a rare cause of coagulopathy due to inherited FVII deficiency who successfully underwent ERCP with sphincterotomy without bleeding where we used recombinant factor VIIa before and after the procedure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/dd/gr-10-144.PMC5412552.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4970648", "abstract": "We investigated the 16α-hydroxylation of steroid molecules and regioselective binding mode in homology-modeled cytochrome P450-2C11 to correlate the biological study with the computational molecular modeling. It revealed that there was a positive relationship between the observed inhibitory potencies and the binding free energies. Docking of steroid molecules into this homology-modeled CYP2C11 indicated that 16α-hydroxylation is favored with steroidal molecules possessing the following components, (1) a bent A-B ring configuration (5β-reduced), (2) C-3 α-hydroxyl group, (3) C-17β-acetyl group, and (4) methyl group at both the C-18 and C-19. These respective steroid components requirements were defined as the inhibitory contribution factor. Overall studies of the male rat CYP2C11 metabolism revealed that the above-mentioned steroid components requirements were essential to induce an effective inhibition of [3H]progesterone 16α-hydroxylation. As far as docking of homology-modeled CYP2C11 against investigated steroids is concerned, they are docked at the active site superimposed with flurbiprofen. It was also found that the distance between heme iron and C16α-H was between 4 to 6 Å and that the related angle was in the range of 180 ± 45°.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/65/65/PMC4970648.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4394052", "abstract": "Abstract Background: Several competing geometric and hemodynamic factors are suggested as contributing mechanisms for functional mitral regurgitation (MR) in heart failure patients. We aimed to study the relationships between the severity of MR and the QRS duration and dyssynchrony markers in patients with ischemic or dilated cardiomyopathy. Methods: We prospectively evaluated 251 heart failure patients with indications for echocardiographic evaluation of possible cardiac resynchronization therapy. All the patients were subjected to transthoracic echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging to evaluate the left ventricular (LV) synchronicity. The patients were divided into two groups according to the severity of MR: ≤ mild MR and ≥ moderate MR. The effects of different dyssynchrony indices were adjusted for global and regional left ventricular remodeling parameters. Results: From the 251 patients (74.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/42/39/PMC4394052.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3930189", "abstract": "Calorie restriction (CR) is an intervention extending the life spans of many organisms. The mechanisms underlying CR-dependent retardation of aging are still poorly understood. Despite mechanisms involving conserved nutrient signaling pathways proposed, few target processes that can account for CR-mediated longevity have so far been identified. Recently, both peroxiredoxins and vacuolar-ATPases were reported to control CR-mediated retardation of aging downstream of conserved nutrient signaling pathways. In this review, we focus on peroxiredoxin-mediated stress-defence and vacuolar-ATPase regulated acidification and pinpoint common denominators between the two mechanisms proposed for how CR extends life span. Both the activities of peroxiredoxins and vacuolar-ATPases are stimulated upon CR through reduced activities in conserved nutrient signaling pathways and both seem to stimulate cellular resistance to peroxide-stress. However, whereas vacuolar-ATPases have recently been suggested to control both Ras-cAMP-PKA- and TORC1-mediated nutrient signaling, neither the physiological benefits of a proposed role for peroxiredoxins in H2O2-signaling nor downstream targets regulated are known. Both peroxiredoxins and vacuolar-ATPases do, however, impinge on mitochondrial iron-metabolism and further characterization of their impact on iron homeostasis and peroxide-resistance might therefore increase our understanding of the beneficial effects of CR on aging and age-related diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/cd/PMC3930189.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4142175", "abstract": "Medical imaging systems often require image enhancement, such as improving the image contrast, to provide medical professionals with the best visual image quality. This helps in anomaly detection and diagnosis. Most enhancement algorithms are iterative processes that require many parameters be selected. Poor or nonoptimal parameter selection can have a negative effect on the enhancement process. In this paper, a quantitative metric for measuring the image quality is used to select the optimal operating parameters for the enhancement algorithms. A variety of measures evaluating the quality of an image enhancement will be presented along with each measure's basis for analysis, namely, on image content and image attributes. We also provide guidelines for systematically choosing the proper measure of image quality for medical images.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3c/9f/PMC4142175.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4181057", "abstract": "The Vibrant Soundbridge (VSB) with stapes clip coupler placement at the stapes head has been used successfully to treat mixed hearing loss. Coupling between the floating mass transducer of the VSB and the stapes head is technically less demanding than incus vibroplasty and is more likely to generate a positive outcome without significantly changing residual hearing or resulting in medical or surgical complications. A 65-year-old man with bilateral mixed hearing loss and chronic otitis media underwent vibroplasty with a stapes clip coupler. Speech discrimination scores in both quiet and noise environments showed better functional gain with the VSB than with the use of a conventional hearing aid. The results of the present case show the feasibility of implanting a VSB with a stapes coupler in patients with mixed hearing loss due to chronic otitis media.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/57/kja-18-93.PMC4181057.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4709916", "abstract": "Previous study demonstrated that Chang Run Tong (CRT) could partly restore the colon remodeling in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic rats. Here we investigated the mechanisms of such effects of CRT. Diabetes was induced by a single injection of 40 mg/kg of STZ. CRT was poured into the stomach by gastric lavage once daily for 60 days. The remodeling parameters were obtained from diabetic (DM), CRT treated diabetic (T1, 50 g/kg; T2, 25 g/kg), and normal (Con) rats. Expressions of advanced glycation end product (AGE), AGE receptor, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and TGF-β1 receptor in the colon wall were immunochemically detected and quantitatively analyzed. The association between the expressions of those proteins and the remodeling parameters was analyzed. The expressions of those proteins were significantly higher in different colon layers in the DM group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) and highly correlated to the remodeling parameters. Furthermore, the expressions of those proteins were significantly decreased in the T1 group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) but not in the T2 group (P > 0.05). The corrective effect on the expressions of those proteins is likely to be one molecular pathway for the improvement of CRT on the diabetes-induced colon remodeling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b6/b6/PMC4709916.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3268617", "abstract": "Mammalian musculature is a very robust and dynamic tissue that goes through many rounds of degeneration and regeneration in an individual’s lifetime. There is a biological program that maintains muscle progenitor cells that, when activated, give rise to intermediate myoblast progeny that consequently differentiate into mature muscle cells. Recent works have provided a picture of the role that microRNAs (miRNAs) play in maintaining aspects of this program. Intriguingly, a subset of these miRNAs is de-regulated in muscular dystrophies (MDs), a group of fatal inherited neuromuscular disorders that are often associated with deficiencies in the Dystrophin (Dys) complex. Apparently, transcriptional expression of many of the muscle specific genes and miRNAs is dependent on chromatin state regulated by the Dys–Syn–nNOS pathway. This puts Dystrophin at the epicenter of a highly regulated program of muscle gene expression in which miRNAs help to coordinate networking between multiple phases of muscle maintenance, degeneration, and regeneration. Therefore, understanding the role of miRNAs in physiology of normal and diseased muscle tissue could be useful for future applications in improving the MD therapies and could open new clinical perspectives.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ea/c7/PMC3268617.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3794557", "abstract": "This study aims to investigate the content of lead and cadmium in most frequently used brands of cosmetic products (lipstick and eye shadow) in Iran. Fifty samples of lipstick (5 colors in 7 brands) and eye shadow (3 colors in 5 brands) were selected taken from large cosmetic stores in Isfahan (Iran) and lead and cadmium of them were analyzed. The results showed that the concentration of lead and cadmium in the lipsticks was within the range of 0.08–5.2 µg/g and 4.08–60.20 µg/g, respectively. The eye shadow samples had a lead level of 0.85–6.90 µg/g and a cadmium level of 1.54–55.59 µg/g. The content range of the heavy metals in the eye shadows was higher than that of the lipsticks. There was significant difference between the average of the lead content in the different brands of the lipsticks and eye shadows. Thus, the continuous use of these cosmetics can increase the absorption of heavy metals, especially Cd and Pb, in the body when swallowing lipsticks or through dermal cosmetic absorption. The effects of heavy metals such as lead can be harmful, especially for pregnant women and children. Therefore, effort must be made to inform the users and the general public about the harmful consequences of cosmetics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f7/ef/PMC3794557.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5203911", "abstract": "The effects of various processing methods on the proximate composition and dieting of Amaranthus hybridus and Amaranthus cruentus from West Cameroon were investigated in this study. Both amaranths leaves were subjected to same treatments (sun-dried and unsliced, sliced and cooked), milled, and analysed for their mineral and proximate composition. Thirty-Six Wistar albino rats of 21 to 24 days old were distributed in six groups and fed for 14 days with 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/31/7e/PMC5203911.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4494518", "abstract": "Abstract Global myocardial ischemia and ischemia-reperfusion injury are potential adverse events related with cardioplegic arrest. Beating heart surgery has avoided such complications and adapted to valve surgery following successful results published on myocardial revascularization. Difficulty in weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass may be lessened by using on-pump beating heart surgery for mitral valve interventions. Here we describe a 64-year-old male patient with severe mitral regurgitation and dilated cardiomyopathy. Beating heart mitral valve replacement surgery was performed without aortic cross-clamping through a right thoracotomy approach. We believe that, particularly in patients with poor left ventricular functions, beating heart mitral valve surgery may be advantageous.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/60/PMC4494518.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3393866", "abstract": "Internal carotid artery (ICA) trapping can be used for the treatment of giant intracranial aneurysms, blood blister-like aneurysms, and fusiform dissecting aneurysms. Fusiform dissecting aneurysms are challenging to treat surgically and endovascularly because of no definite neck and critical perforators. Surgical or endovascular trapping of the ICA with or without an extracranial-intracranial bypass has commonly been used as an effective method to treat these lesions, but balloon test occlusion (BTO) must be performed. Here, we report a case of a ruptured fusiform dissecting aneurysm of the distal ICA, which was successfully treated using an endovascular ICA trapping with a manual ICA compression test instead of BTO.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/82/58/jkns-51-296.PMC3393866.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3841477", "abstract": "A 69-year-old man with multiple skin lesions on his face, neck and upper torso, which first appeared in the 3rd decade of his life, was admitted to our hospital. He had cystic changes in his lungs noted on chest computed tomography (CT) scanning, as well as a left kidney mass. This patient exhibited a rare complex of renal, cutaneous and pulmonary manifestations, eponymously named Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome, with characteristic skin features (fibrofolliculomas, trichodiscomas and acrochordons). This syndrome is due to an autosomal dominant germ-line mutation of the folliculin (FLCN) gene located at chromosome 17p11.2. Diagnosis and differentiation from other disease complexes including the skin, kidneys and lungs are important in prognostication and management of potentially life-threatening complications such as renal cell carcinoma and pneumothoraces.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5c/8a/PMC3841477.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2952812", "abstract": "Bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia (BOOP) is a chronic respiratory disease. Although the pathogenesis of BOOP is still incompletely understood, BOOP is responsive to steroids and has a good prognosis. In our five pigs with chronic postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS),  typical BOOP lesions were revealed. All five porcine lungs showed typical intraluminal plugs, and porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) was identified. They also exhibited similar pathologic findings such as proliferation of type II pneumocytes and myofibroblasts (MFBs), extracellular collagen matrix (ECM) deposition, and fragmentation of elastic fibers. MFBs migration correlative molecules, for instance, gelatinase A, B and osteopontin, appeared strongly in the progressing marginal area of polypoid intraluminal plugs of fibrotic lesion. These molecules colocalized with the active MFBs. Both gelatinase activity and intercellular level of active MFBs were significantly increased (P < .05). Porcine chronic bronchopneumonia leads to BOOP and it is associated with PCV2 persistent infection. Swine BOOP demonstrates similar cellular constituents with human BOOP. Perhaps their molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis operate in a similar way. Thus we infer that the swine BOOP can be considered as a potential animal model for human BOOP associated with natural viral infection. Moreover, it is more convenient to obtain  samples.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4d/09/PMC2952812.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2706009", "abstract": " Background. The (anti neutrophil cytoplasmatic autoantibody ANCA), associated small vessel vasculitides (ASVV) are relapsing-remitting inflammatory disorders, involving various organs, such as the kidneys. (Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 MCP-1) has been shown to be locally up regulated in glomerulonephritis and recent studies have pointed out MCP-1 as a promising marker of renal inflammation. Here we measure urinary cytokine levels in different phases of disease, exploring the possible prognostic value of MCP-1, together with (interleukin 6 IL-6), (interleukin 8 IL-8) and (immunoglobulin M IgM). Methods. MCP-1, IL-6 and IL-8 were measured using commercially available ELISA kits, whereas IgM in the urine was measured by an in-house ELISA. Results. The MCP-1 levels in urine were significantly higher in patients in stable phase of the disease, compared with healthy controls. Patients in stable phase, with subsequent adverse events; had significantly higher MCP-1 values than patients who did not. MCP-1 and IgM both tended to be higher in patients relapsing within three months, an observation, however, not reaching statistical significance. Urinary levels of IL-6 correlated with relapse tendency, and IL-8 was associated with disease outcome. Conclusions. Patients with ASVV have raised cytokine levels in the urine compared to healthy controls, even during remission. Raised MCP-1 levels are associated with poor prognosis and possibly also with relapse tendency. The association with poor prognosis was stronger for U-MCP-1 than for conventional markers of disease like CRP, BVAS, and ANCA, as well as compared to candidate markers like U-IgM and U-IL-8. We thus consider U-MCP-1 to have promising potential as a prognostic marker in ASVV.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/60/PMC2706009.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4644167", "abstract": "Introduction Knee osteoarthritis is associated with persistent joint pain, stiffness, joint deformities, ligament damage, and surrounding muscle atrophy. The complexity of the disease makes treatment difficult. There are no therapeutic drugs available to halt the disease progression, leaving patients dependent on pain medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, or invasive joint replacement surgery. Case presentations Four patients with a history of unresolved symptomatic knee osteoarthritis were investigated for the therapeutic outcome of combining an exercise rehabilitation program with intra-articular injections of autologous StroMed (ie, stromal vascular fraction cells concentrated by ultrasonic cavitation from lipoaspirate) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score questionnaire (KOOS) was administered along with physical function tests over a 12-month period. The first patient achieved a maximum therapeutic outcome of 100 in all five KOOS subscales (left knee), and 100 for four subscales (right knee). The second patient scored 100 in all five KOOS subscales (left knee), and greater than 84 in all subscales (right knee). Treatment of the third patient resulted in improved outcomes in both knees of >93 for four KOOS subscales, and 60 for the Function in Sport and Recreation subscale. The fourth patient improved to 100 in all five KOOS subscales. In all patients, the physical function “Get-up and Go” test and “Stair Climbing Test” returned to normal (a value of zero). Conclusion This case series indicates that improved outcomes may be obtained when autologous stromal vascular fraction (StroMed) cell therapy is combined with traditional exercise practices and PRP for osteoarthritis. Of the seven joints treated: all patients’ scores of pain improved to >96; and quality of life scores to >93. Functional performance measures of mobility returned to normal. This simple treatment appears to be extremely effective for osteoarthritis disorders that have no drug treatment to halt disease progression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d7/e7/jpr-8-799.PMC4644167.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4860438", "abstract": "We describe a rare case of a patient with colonic diverticular perforation manifested only by subcutaneous emphysema of the neck, chest, and abdomen, as visualized by a computed tomography (CT) scan. The 76-year-old female patient with a history of internal diseases was urgently admitted to the Clinic of Internal Diseases due to a urinary tract infection. During the hospitalization, further diagnostic procedures were performed due to palpable subcutaneous emphysema of the neck, chest, and abdomen. Computed tomography examination revealed massive intra-abdominal, intramuscular, and subcutaneous emphysema. A decision was made to perform exploratory laparotomy; the procedure exposed an inveterate diverticular perforation of the sigmoid-rectal flexure as well as air-inflated retroperitoneal tissue. The perforated colon was resected, and a stoma was formed. On the 15th postoperative day, the patient died due to cardiorespiratory failure. Although subcutaneous emphysema is a common symptom in everyday medical practice, its etiology remains complex. One should consider this clinical presentation of colonic diverticular perforation, especially in elderly patients in whom the perforation signs may be clinically less marked.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/a6/KITP-13-58968.PMC4860438.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3542310", "abstract": "We report a case in an inoperable patient with the hilar malignant biliary obstruction treated palliatively by the use of a newly designed Y-shaped covered stent without interfering contra-lateral bile duct. We percutaneously inserted a newly designed Y-shaped covered stent into a biliary tree in an inoperable patient with Bismuth Type II cholangiocarcinoma. We checked tubograms, enhanced CT studies, and blood bilirubin levels before, one week after, and at every three month after the stenting, by observing closely the signs of clinical infection as well. The follow-up period was about 12 months. The placement of the Y-shaped covered stent was successful and resulted in adequate biliary drainage in the immediate post-procedural tubogram and in the follow-up abdominal CT. The serum bilirubin levels did not show elevation after the insertion of the Y-shaped covered stent.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/96/kjr-14-97.PMC3542310.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3659554", "abstract": "Plant leaf cuticle is related to the prevention of moisture loss, transpiration, and diffusion of light reflection. The purpose of this study was to examine the morphological characteristics of ginseng leaves in ginseng plants resistant and susceptible to high temperature injury (HTI) to be related with the leaf-burning. For the HTI resistant lines Yunpoong, high-temperature injury resistance (HTIR) 1, HTIR 2, and HTIR 3, and the HTI-susceptible line Chunpoong, the cuticle densities were 53.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ad/69/grosbr-35-449.PMC3659554.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4995387", "abstract": "Cytomegalovirus is a double stranded DNA virus that can be present in nearly all organs and body fluids. The primary infection is usually asymptomatic in the immunocompetent host and it is common among adolescents and young adults. The symptomatic form appears, in the majority of cases, as a mononucleosis syndrome with full recovery without specific treatment. We report a case of a 25 years old woman who presented with hepatitis due to CMV infection and history of omalizumab administration one month earlier. This recombinant monoclonal antibody is used to control refractory asthma and chronic spontaneous urticarial as it inhibits human IgE. Despite that, the long course of the disease lead us to initiate treatment with valganciclovir. The improvement after that was rapid and complete.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/44/main.PMC4995387.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5028601", "abstract": "Objective The objective of this study is to establish an animal model of chronic paraspinal muscle injury in rat. Methods Fifty four Sprague-Dawley male rats were divided into experimental group (n=30), sham (n=15), and normal group (n=9). Incision was done from T7 to L2 and paraspinal muscles were detached from spine and tied at each level. The paraspinal muscles were exposed and untied at 2 weeks after surgery. Sham operation was done by paraspinal muscles dissection at the same levels and wound closure was done without tying. Kyphotic index and thoracolumbar Cobb's angle were measured at preoperative, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the first surgery for all groups. The rats were sacrificed at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after the first surgery, and performed histological examinations. Results  At 4 weeks after surgery, the kyphotic index decreased, but, Cobb's angle increased significantly in the experimental group (p<0.05), and then that were maintained until the end of the experiment. However, there were no significant differences of the kyphotic index and Cobb's angle between sham and normal groups. In histological examinations, necrosis and fibrosis were observed definitely and persisted until 12 weeks after surgery. There were also presences of regenerated muscle cells which nucleus is at the center of cytoplasm, centronucleated myofibers. Conclusion Our chronic injury model of paraspinal muscles in rats shows necrosis and fibrosis in the muscles for 12 weeks after surgery, which might be useful to study the pathophysiology of the degenerative thoracolumbar kyphosis or degeneration of paraspinal muscles.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/49/jkns-59-430.PMC5028601.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3162294", "abstract": "Background: It has been previously reported that oral administration of sodium pyruvate inhibits oxidative stress and cataract formation in diabetic animals. With a view to exploring the clinical usefulness of these findings, this study examined its preventive effect when administered topically as an eye drop. Methods: Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin. At the onset of diabetes, an eye drop preparation containing 2.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/84/57/PMC3162294.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4763558", "abstract": "Topiramate (TPM) is a sulfa-derivative monosaccharide that has been used for multiple indications in the last several years. We describe a 53-year-old woman with known chronic kidney disease stage 2 and baseline creatinine of 1 mg/dL who developed acute kidney injury and proximal renal tubular dysfunction while on TPM for depression. The Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale indicated a probable relationship (score of 6) between TPM and acute kidney injury as well as proximal tubular dysfunction; these renal conditions resolved on withdrawal of TPM. To our knowledge, this is the first report of such a scenario. Patients receiving TPM therapy should be closely monitored for evidence of kidney dysfunction and electrolyte abnormalities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/ea/JCHIMP-6-30510.PMC4763558.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649560", "abstract": "We report the first case of appendicitis within a recurrent inguinal hernia, more unique in its presentation as epididymo-orchitis. A 61-year old male presented with right testicular pain, erythematous scrotum and raised inflammatory markers. He previously had recurrent left epididymo-orchitis and right inguinal hernia repair. A diagnosis of epididymo-orchitis was made but CT was performed which diagnosed acute appendicitis within a recurrent inguinal hernia entering the scrotum. This was confirmed intra-operatively with a distal inflamed appendix segment passing beyond the medial border of the exposed mesh. Correct pre-operative CT diagnosis requires high index of suspicion even with innocuous testicular symptoms. CT reduces misdiagnosis which is associated with significant morbidity, and also aids in planning surgical approach. The only other case of acute appendicitis presenting with testicular symptoms was diagnosed only during scrotal exploration necessitating further laparotomy. The appendix entrapment beyond the mesh could suggest an alternative aetiology of mesh-related appendicitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7d/4b/PMC3649560.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4096641", "abstract": "Acanthotrema felis is an intestinal trematode of cats originally reported from the Republic of Korea. Only 1 human case infected with a single adult worm has been previously recorded. In the present study, we report 4 human cases infected with a total of 10 worms recovered after anthelmintic treatment and purging. All 4 patients reside in coastal areas of Jeollanam-do, Korea, and have consumed brackish water fish including the gobies, Acanthogobius flavimanus. The worms averaged 0.47 mm in length and 0.27 mm in width, and had 3 sclerites on the ventrogenital sac; 1 was short and thumb-like, another was long and blunt-ended, and the 3rd was long and broad-tipped. They were identified as A. felis Sohn, Han,     Chai, 2003. Surveys on coastal areas to detect further human cases infected with A. felis are required.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/dc/kjp-52-291.PMC4096641.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5308768", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate consanguineous pedigrees from Pakistan with a clinical diagnosis of nonsyndromic congenital retinal nonattachment (NCRNA) and identify genes responsible for the disease as currently only one NCRNA gene is known (atonal basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor 7: ATOH7). Methods We implemented a three-step genotyping platform: single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping to identify loss of heterozygosity regions in patients, Retinal Information Network panel screening for mutations in currently known retinal genes. Negative patients were then subjected to whole exome sequencing. Results We evaluated 21 consanguineous NCRNA pedigrees and identified the causal mutations in known retinal genes in 13 out of our 21 families. We found mutations in ATOH7 in three families. Surprisingly, we then found mutations in familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) genes; low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 mutations (six families), tetraspanin 12 mutations (two families), and NDP mutations (two families). Thus, 62", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4a/e9/i1552-5783-58-2-1028.PMC5308768.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3608891", "abstract": "Estrogen receptor (ER) is a hormone-regulated transcription factor that controls cell division and differentiation in the ovary, breast, and uterus. The expression of ER is a common feature of the majority of breast cancers, which is used as a therapeutic target. Recent genetic studies have shown that ER binding occurs in regions distant to the promoters of estrogen target genes. These studies have also demonstrated that ER binding is accompanied with the binding of other transcription factors, which regulate the function of ER and response to anti-estrogen therapies. In this review, we explain how these factors influence the interaction of ER to chromatin and their cooperation for ER transcriptional activity. Moreover, we describe how the expression of these factors dictates the response to anti-estrogen therapies. Finally, we discuss how cytoplasmatic signaling pathways may modulate the function of ER and its cooperating transcription factors.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c3/5f/PMC3608891.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1175922", "abstract": "Research involving critically ill persons highlights challenging questions surrounding third party authorization. The ethical and legal viability in research involving persons who do not have the capacity to consent to participation is not universally accepted, and inconsistent standards are reflected in research ethics guidelines, law and practice. In order to ensure that research participants who are considered incapable of consenting to research are appropriately protected, and that minimal risk research on illnesses affecting those who are unable to consent is enabled, clear and justifiable parameters must be created and, where they are already established, they must be made more transparent.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/00/53/PMC1175922.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2799998", "abstract": "We report a 39-yr-old man with neuro-Behçet's disease (NBD) in remission who developed left-sided ataxia with a sensory deficit about 10 days after tooth extraction. Several years ago, he experienced a similar episode of relapse after tooth extraction. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed a newly developed right thalamic lesion. In cerebrospinal fluid, lymphocyte-dominant pleocytosis and mild elevation of IgG were found. Immunologic factors may be important in the pathogenesis of NBD because of the time delay between tooth extraction and relapse. Careful observation and prevention are needed before dental procedures in patients with NBD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e4/69/jkms-25-185.PMC2799998.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5389948", "abstract": "Tumor tissues from biopsies or surgery are major sources for the next generation sequencing (NGS) study, but these procedures are invasive and have limitation to overcome intratumor heterogeneity. Recent studies have shown that driver alterations in tumor tissues can be detected by liquid biopsy which is a less invasive technique capable of both capturing the tumor heterogeneity and overcoming the difficulty in tissue sampling. However, it is still unclear whether the driver alterations in liquid biopsy can be detected by targeted NGS and how those related to the tissue biopsy. In this study, we performed whole-exome sequencing for a breast cancer tissue and identified PTEN p.H259fs*7 frameshift mutation. In the plasma DNA (liquid biopsy) analysis by targeted NGS, the same variant initially identified in the tumor tissue was also detected with low variant allele frequency. This mutation was subsequently validated by digital polymerase chain reaction in liquid biopsy. Our result confirm that driver alterations identified in the tumor tissue were detected in liquid biopsy by targeted NGS as well, and suggest that a higher depth of sequencing coverage is needed for detection of genomic alterations in a liquid biopsy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/ad/gni-15-48.PMC5389948.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4888763", "abstract": "A severe gonadotropin deficiency together with chronic estradiol deficiency leading to amenorrhea characterizes patients suffering from hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Administration of both follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) to these patients has been shown to be essential in achieving successful stimulation of follicular development, ovulation, and rescue of fertility. In recent years, the availability of both recombinant FSH (rFSH) and recombinant LH (rLH) has provided a new therapeutic option for the stimulation of follicular growth in hypopituitary–hypogonadotropic women (World Health Organization Group I). In this article, we review the data reported in the literature to highlight the role and the efficacy of using recombinant gonadotropins, rFSH and rLH, in the treatment of women with severe LH/FSH deficiency. Although the studies on this issue are limited and the experiences available in the literature are few due to the small number of such patients, it is clearly evident that the recombinant gonadotropins rFSH and rLH are efficient in treating patients affected by hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. The results observed in the studies reported in this review suggest that recombinant gonadotropins are able to induce proper follicular growth, oocyte maturation, and eventually pregnancy in this group of women. Moreover, the clinical use of recombinant gonadotropins in this type of patients has given more insight into some endocrinological aspects of ovarian function that have not yet been fully understood.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/dd/ijwh-8-169.PMC4888763.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3731889", "abstract": "In the vast majority of studies utilizing adeno-associated virus (AAV) in central nervous system applications, including those published with spinal cord injury (SCI) models, AAV has been administered at the level of the cell body of neurons targeted for genetic modification, resulting in transduction of neurons in the vicinity of the injection site. However, as SCI interrupts many axon tracts, it may be more beneficial to transduce a diverse pool of supraspinal neurons. We determined if descending axons severed by SCI are capable of retrogradely transporting AAV to remotely transduce a variety of brain regions. Different AAV serotypes encoding the reporter green fluorescent protein (GFP) were injected into gray and white matter immediately rostral to a spinal transection site. This resulted in the transduction of thousands of neurons within the spinal cord and in multiple regions within the brainstem that project to spinal cord. In addition, we established that different serotypes had disparate regional specificity and that AAV5 transduced the most brain and spinal cord neurons. This is the first demonstration that retrograde transport of AAV by axons severed by SCI is an effective means to transduce a collection of supraspinal neurons. Thus, we identify a novel, minimally invasive means to transduce a variety of neuronal populations within both the spinal cord and the brain following SCI. This paradigm to broadly distribute viral vectors has the potential to be an important component of a combinatorial strategy to promote functional axonal regeneration.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/cf/mtna201334a.PMC3731889.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4016945", "abstract": "RANTES and its CCR5 receptor trigger inflammation and its progression to insulin resistance in obese. In the present study, we investigated for the first time the effect of physical exercise on the expression of RANTES and CCR5 in obese humans. Fifty-seven adult nondiabetic subjects (17 lean and 40 obese) were enrolled in a 3-month supervised physical exercise. RANTES and CCR5 expressions were measured in PBMCs and subcutaneous adipose tissue before and after exercise. Circulating plasma levels of RANTES were also investigated. There was a significant increase in RANTES and CCR5 expression in the subcutaneous adipose tissue of obese compared to lean. In PBMCs, however, while the levels of RANTES mRNA and protein were comparable between both groups, CCR5 mRNA was downregulated in obese subjects (P < 0.05). Physical exercise significantly reduced the expression of both RANTES and CCR5 (P < 0.05) in the adipose tissue of obese individuals with a concomitant decrease in the levels of the inflammatory markers TNF-α, IL-6, and P-JNK. Circulating RANTES correlated negatively with anti-inflammatory IL-1ra (P = 0.001) and positively with proinflammatory IP-10 and TBARS levels (P < 0.05). Therefore, physical exercise may provide an effective approach for combating the deleterious effects associated with obesity through RANTES signaling in the adipose tissue.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/00/PMC4016945.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3110796", "abstract": "To what extent is cognition affected by culture? And how might cognitive science profit from an intensified collaboration with anthropology in exploring this issue? In order to answer these questions, we will first give a brief description of different perspectives on cognition, one that prevails in most cognitive sciences – particularly in cognitive psychology – and one in anthropology. Three basic assumptions of cognitive science regarding the separability of content and process, the context-independence of processing, and the culture-independence of processing will then be discussed. We argue that these assumptions need to be questioned and scrutinized cross-culturally. A thorough examination of these issues would profit considerably from collaboration with anthropologists, not only by enabling deeper insight into the cultures under scrutiny, but also by synergistic effects that would allow for a more comprehensive understanding of human cognition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/67/92/PMC3110796.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5084392", "abstract": "Introduction Outbreaks of the zoonotic disease tularemia occurred in north-east Bulgaria in the 1960s. Then came 30 years of epidemiological silence until new outbreaks occurred in west Bulgaria in the 1990s. To investigate how bacterial strains of Francisella tularensis causing tularemia in wildlife and humans in the 1960s and the 1990s were related, we explored their genetic diversity. Material and methods Ten F. tularensis genomes from the 1960s (n=3) and the 1990s (n=7) were sequenced, assigned to canonical single-nucleotide polymorphism (canSNP) clades, and compared to reference genomes. We developed four new canSNP polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays based on the genome sequence information. Results and discussion The genetic analysis showed that the outbreaks in the 1960s as well as in the 1990s involved multiple clones and new genetic diversity. The smallest genetic difference found between any of the Bulgarian strains was five SNPs between the strains L2 and 81 isolated 43 years apart, indicating that F. tularensis may persist locally over long time periods without causing outbreaks. The existence of genetically highly similar strain-pairs isolated the same year in the same area from different hosts supports a hypothesis of local expansion of clones during outbreaks. Close relationship (two SNPs) was found between one strain isolated 1961 in northeast Bulgaria and one strain isolated 5 years before in USSR. Historical data coinciding with the actual time point describe the introduction of water rats from USSR into the Bulgarian outbreak area, which may explain the close genetic relationship and the origin of the outbreak. Conclusion Genome analysis of strains from two outbreaks in the 1960s and the 1990s provided valuable information on the genetic diversity and persistence of F. tularensis in Bulgaria. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cc/dc/IEE-6-32838.PMC5084392.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3543948", "abstract": "Urachal cysts are uncommon. Rarely, these cysts can become infected. Tuberculosis of the urachal cyst is exceedingly rare, with only one case reported previously in the English language literature. Here we report the case of a 23-year-old male who presented with an infra-umbilical mass that turned out to be tuberculosis of the urachal cyst.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/5b/kjim-28-103.PMC3543948.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5036331", "abstract": "Primary leptomeningeal oligodendrogliomatosis (PLO) is a rare low-grade intracranial and spinal canal subarachnoid neoplasm without an obvious primary neoplasm in the brain or spinal cord parenchyma. We present here the serial progression of radiological findings of this rare disease in a 2-year-old male child whose clinical status deteriorated over a period of 4 months with the main complaint of partial seizures. During this period, the MR findings progressed from mild hydrocephalus with minimal leptomeningeal enhancement to leptomeningeal multiple cystic lesions in the entire neuraxis including the spine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/da/56/IJRI-26-337.PMC5036331.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3964762", "abstract": " Purpose. To evaluate our community-based institutional experience with plaque brachytherapy for uveal melanomas with a focus on local control rates, factors impacting disease progression, and dosimetric parameters impacting treatment toxicity. Methods and Materials. Our institution was retrospectively reviewed from 1996 to 2011; all patients who underwent plaque brachytherapy for uveal melanoma were included. Follow-up data were collected regarding local control, distant metastases, and side effects from treatment. Analysis was performed on factors impacting treatment outcomes and treatment toxicity. Results. A total of 107 patients underwent plaque brachytherapy, of which 88 had follow-up data available. Local control at 10 years was 94", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bd/5c/PMC3964762.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4806954", "abstract": "We characterized Middle East respiratory syndrome coronaviruses from a hospital outbreak in Jordan in 2015. The viruses from Jordan were highly similar to isolates from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, except for deletions in open reading frames 4a and 3. Transmissibility and pathogenicity of this strain remains to be determined.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/e3/PMC4806954.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4524377", "abstract": "Cystitis is a possible adverse drug reaction associated with the use of tizanidine. Such cases have been rarely reported in literature because of the difficulty in establishing the causality. However, from a pharmacovigilance point of view, it is better to report such cases of a possible association between a drug’s use and potential adverse drug reactions. We report a case of a 26-year-old Asian female on famotidine who presented with acute severe urinary burning after taking tizanidine. Video abstract", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/59/cpaa-7-083.PMC4524377.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4594252", "abstract": "Neuron neurotransmitter receptors are in general pentameric. This enables them to form pentagonal components in biological quasicrystals (similar to mathematical aperiodic tilings). As quasicrystals have been proposed to require quantum effects to exist this might introduce such effects as a component of neurotransmission and thus consciousness. Microtubules may play a role in the clustering of the receptors into quasicrystals, thus modulating their function and may even form quasicrystals themselves. Other quaiscrystals in neurons are potentially formed by water, cholera toxin complexes, and the cytoskeletal components actin and ankyrin.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2c/54/kcib-08-01-1000700.PMC4594252.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4657791", "abstract": "Purpose Diagnosing heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, a potentially catastrophic immune-mediated disorder, continues to pose significant challenges for clinicians, as both clinical and laboratory tools lack specificity. There is mounting evidence supporting a positive correlation between definitive heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and optical density (OD) positivity from the widely available anti-platelet factor 4 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (PF4 ELISAs). However, the clinical features distinguishing these patients remain poorly understood. Patients and methods To better characterize this group, we conducted a case-controlled, retrospective chart review of patients from two large, urban academic institutions who underwent a PF4 ELISA at a central laboratory. Associations between OD and 18 clinical characteristics were calculated using the Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables and Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables. Results In total, 184 negative patients (OD <0.7), and 121 positive patients (OD >0.7), including 74 low-positive patients (0.7< OD <1.4) and 47 high-positive patients (OD >1.4) were identified. Several clinical variables were significantly different in the negative group compared with the positive group, including hospital day (P<0.001), previous admission within the past 3 months (P<0.001), and the presence of a new thrombus (P=0.003). However, many of these variables were not different between the negative and low-positive group, and were only distinct between the negative and high-positive group. When the low-positive and high-positive groups were compared, only the 4T score was significantly different (P=0.003). Conclusion These data indicate that those with OD >1.4 form a distinct clinical group and support the clinical utility of the 4T score.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/19/jbm-6-277.PMC4657791.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2737198", "abstract": "Application of siRNA in high-throughput fashion is still in its early phase although the principle has been established for three years. In this review, we outline the different vector-based siRNA delivery platforms as well as resources that are becoming available for high-throughput applications, and some initial outcomes of vector siRNA high-throughput screening efforts using vector encoded siRNA. It is expected that further improvement of the siRNA technology and availability of the siRNA resources will help to materialize the potential of siRNA for functional genomics and drug target validation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e0/48/PMC2737198.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC156024", "abstract": "In an informal address to the 4th International Conference on Priorities in Health (Oslo, 23 September 2002), Professor Jeffrey Sachs – Chairperson of the WHO Commission on Macroeconomics and Health – maintained that the real causes of the inability of the world's poorest people to receive help for the lethal diseases that burden them did not include the \"usual suspects\" (corruption, mismanagement, and wrong priorities). Rather, the root cause was argued to be an inherent lack of money, indicating that the burden of disease would be lifted only if rich countries gave more money to poor ones. Without taking exception to anything that Sachs said in his address, there nevertheless remain a number of justifications for efforts to improve priority setting in the face of severely shortages of resources, including the following three defenses: prioritization is needed if we are to know that prioritization is insufficient; prioritization is most important when there is little money; prioritization can itself increase resources.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d7/de/PMC156024.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4847499", "abstract": "Objective The importance of traumatic dural venous sinus injury lies in the probability of massive blood loss at the time of trauma or emergency operation resulting in a high mortality rate during the perioperative period. We considered the appropriate methods of treatment that are most essential in the overall management of traumatic dural venous sinus injuries. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of all cases involving patients with dural venous sinus injury who presented to our hospital between January 1999 and December 2014. Results Between January 1999 and December 2014, 20 patients with a dural venous sinus injury out of the 1,200 patients with severe head injuries who had been operated upon in our clinic were reviewed retrospectively. There were 17 male and 3 female patients. In 11 out of the 13 patients with a linear skull fracture crossing the dural venous sinus, massive blood loss from the injured sinus wall could be controlled by simple digital pressure using Gelfoam. All 5 patients with a linear skull fracture parallel to the sinus over the venous sinus developed massive sinus bleeding that could not be controlled by simple digital pressure. Conclusion When there is a linear skull fracture parallel to the sinus over the dural venous sinus or a depressed skull fracture penetrating the sinus, the surgeon should be prepared for the possibility of potentially fatal venous sinus injury, even in the absence of a hematoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3d/89/kjn-11-118.PMC4847499.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3892586", "abstract": "Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) is an acute eye infection caused by adenovirus. We investigated an outbreak of EKC at an outpatient ophthalmology practice in the context of a suspected community wide increase in EKC activity. A site visit was made to the facility reporting the outbreak. A line list was created of patients clinically diagnosed with EKC at the practice during the previous 5 months. A questionnaire was faxed to all other licensed ophthalmologists in the county regarding recent EKC activity in their facility. Descriptive data analyses were conducted. The outbreak facility reported 37 patients clinically diagnosed with EKC during the previous 5 months. In addition, the single ophthalmologist at the practice also had symptoms compatible with EKC during the outbreak period. Specimens were collected on 4 patients and all were positive for adenovirus serotype 8. Forty percent of ophthalmologists surveyed in the county saw at least one EKC patient in the previous 3 months, and 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/33/20/idr-2010-2-e17.PMC3892586.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3420774", "abstract": "Temporal lobe epilepsy represents the largest group of patients with treatment resistant/medically intractable epilepsy undergoing epilepsy surgery. The underpinnings of common forms of TLE in many instances begin in early life with the occurrence of an initial precipitating event. The first epileptic seizure often occurs after a variable latency period following this event. The precise natural history and progression following the first seizure to the development of TLE, its subsequent resolution through spontaneous remission or the development of treatment resistant epilepsy remain poorly understood. Our present understanding of the role played by these initial events, the subsequent latency to development of temporal lobe epilepsy, and the emergence of treatment resistance remains incomplete. A critical analysis of published data suggest that TLE is a heterogeneous condition, where the age of onset, presence or absence of a lesion on neuroimaging, the initial precipitating event, association with febrile seizures, febrile status epilepticus, and neurotropic viral infections influence the natural history and outcome. The pathways and processes through which these variables coalesce into a framework will provide the basis for an understanding of the natural history of TLE. The questions raised need to be addressed in future prospective and longitudinal observational studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/12/35/PMC3420774.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3171757", "abstract": "Pruritus is a common symptom in systemic sclerosis (SSc), an autoimmune disease which causes fibrosis and vasculopathy in skin, lung, and gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Unfortunately, pruritus has limited treatment options in this disease. Pilot trials of low-dose naltrexone hydrochloride (LDN) for pruritus, pain, and quality of life (QOL) in other GIT diseases have been successful. In this case series we report three patients that had significant improvement in pruritus and total GIT symptoms as measured by the 10-point faces scale and the University of California Los Angeles Scleroderma Clinical Trials Consortium Gastrointestinal Tract 2.0 (UCLA SCTC GIT 2.0) questionnaire. This small case series suggests LDN may be an effective, highly tolerable, and inexpensive treatment for pruritus and GIT symptoms in SSc.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/00/fc/PMC3171757.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3047863", "abstract": "Hypocalcemia with stridor is a well-known condition in the pediatric age group but has rarely been reported in the elderly. We report an elderly patient who presented with dyspnea and laryngeal stridor attack caused by hypocalcemia. The patient had been suffering from stridor and dyspnea episodes for 2 years, and the etiology had not been determined until the evaluation in our department. The cause of stridor was hypocalcemia secondary to thyroidectomy. Complete resolution of stridor was achieved by calcium replacement therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e9/bf/12245_2010_Article_228.PMC3047863.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4240330", "abstract": "Introduction: Fractures of the proximal femur and hip are relatively common injuries in adults and common source of morbidity and mortality among the elderly. Many methods have been recommended for the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures. Material and methods: We retrospective analyzed all the patients with fractures of the hip treated with proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) at the Clinic of Orthopedic and Traumatology, University Clinical Centre Tuzla from the first of January 2012 to 31 December 2012 years. The study included 63 patients averaged 73.6±11.9 years (range, 29 to 88 years). Fracture type was classified as intertrochanteric (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen classification 31.A.1, A.2 and A.3) and subtrochanteric fractures (Seinsheimer classification). Results and discussion: The ratio between the genders female-male was 1.6:1. There was statistically significant difference prevalence of female compared to male patients (p=0.012). There were 31 left and 32 right hip fractured. Low energy trauma was the cause of fractures in 57(90.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3d/f9/MA-68-173.PMC4240330.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3608174", "abstract": "The periplasm of Gram-negative bacteria is a dynamic and physiologically important subcellular compartment where the constant exposure to potential environmental insults amplifies the need for proper protein folding and modifications. Top-down proteomics analysis of the periplasmic fraction at the intact protein level provides unrestricted characterization and annotation of the periplasmic proteome, including the post-translational modifications (PTMs) on these proteins. Here, we used single-dimension ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography coupled with the Fourier transform mass spectrometry (FTMS) to investigate the intact periplasmic proteome of Novosphingobium aromaticivorans. Our top-down analysis provided the confident identification of 55 proteins in the periplasm and characterized their PTMs including signal peptide removal, N-terminal methionine excision, acetylation, glutathionylation, pyroglutamate, and disulfide bond formation. This study provides the first experimental evidence for the expression and periplasmic localization of many hypothetical and uncharacterized proteins and the first unrestrictive, large-scale data on PTMs in the bacterial periplasm.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2d/73/PMC3608174.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3166811", "abstract": "A collision tumor of the stomach is a rare event. We report the case of a collision tumor of the stomach consisting of an adenocarcinoma and a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). This is, to our knowledge, the second report in the literature of such a case. A 71-year-old man with abdominal discomfort underwent an esophagogastroduodenoscopy which revealed a tumor of the oesophagogastric junction. A total gastrectomy was performed. Histologic examination showed a mixed tumor consisting of a primary adenocarcinoma and multiple nodules of GIST. The adenocarcinoma showed both diffuse and intestinal growth, angio-invasion and metastasis to lymph nodes. The GIST tumor cells were strongly immunoreactive to CD117 and CD34. Based on mitotic index, size and cytonuclear details, the biological behavior of this GIST tumor was supposed to be benign. This case reports the rare finding of a collision tumor consisting of an adenocarcinoma and a GIST with an unknown etiology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c1/75/crg0002-0456.PMC3166811.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4327285", "abstract": "From the point of view of deontological ethics, privacy is a moral right that patients are entitled to and it is bound to professional confidentiality. Otherwise, the information given by patients to health professionals would not be reliable and a trustable relationship could not be established. The aim of the present study was to assess, by means of questionnaires with open and closed questions, the awareness and attitudes of 100 dentists working in the city of Andradina, São Paulo State, Brazil, with respect to professional confidentiality in dental practice. Most dentists (91.43", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/63/32/1678-7757-jaos-16-01-0075.PMC4327285.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4417976", "abstract": "Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy with four major types distinguished on the basis of histopathological features: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. Classification of thyroid cancer is the primary step in the assessment of prognosis and selection of the treatment. However, in some cases, cytological and histological patterns are inconclusive; hence, classification based on histopathology could be supported by molecular biomarkers, including markers identified with the use of high-throughput “omics” techniques. Beside genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, metabolomic approach emerges as the most downstream attitude reflecting phenotypic changes and alterations in pathophysiological states of biological systems. Metabolomics using mass spectrometry and magnetic resonance spectroscopy techniques allows qualitative and quantitative profiling of small molecules present in biological systems. This approach can be applied to reveal metabolic differences between different types of thyroid cancer and to identify new potential candidates for molecular biomarkers. In this review, we consider current results concerning application of metabolomics in the field of thyroid cancer research. Recent studies show that metabolomics can provide significant information about the discrimination between different types of thyroid lesions. In the near future, one could expect a further progress in thyroid cancer metabolomics leading to development of molecular markers and improvement of the tumor types classification and diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/68/50/PMC4417976.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4773086", "abstract": " Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a painful skin lesion that results from excessive inflammatory response to a host of traumatic, inflammatory, or neoplastic processes in susceptible individuals. A clear pathogenetic mechanism as well as an exhaustive list of potential triggers for PG is yet to be fully characterized.   This case documents the occurrence of pyoderma gangrenosum following leech-therapy in a patient who is a known case of ulcerative colitis and it deserves attention because leeches have been part of medical armamentarium since ancient times and have re-emerged in the last century relying on their ancient charm and modern research revealing potential benefits of several bioactive substances in their saliva. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/92/MEJDD-8-63.PMC4773086.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3286507", "abstract": "In pregnant women with heart disease, complications can arise due to the haemodynamic burden of pregnancy and to hypercoagulation. Most problems can be managed medically, but sometimes cardiac surgery or percutaneous intervention is unavoidable. Cardiac surgery has similar maternal mortality to that outside pregnancy, but foetal mortality and morbidity are considerable. Measures to reduce the risk by adaptation of the management of cardiopulmonary bypass are described. When gestational age is > 28 weeks, pre-surgery delivery of the foetus should be considered. Percutaneous intervention exposes the foetus to radiation. The radiation dose for common cardiac procedures, however, does not result in detectable harmful foetal effects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fa/58/PMC3286507.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3753527", "abstract": "Background: The direct impact of medical expenses on breast cancer incidence and mortality rate has not been sufficiently addressed. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential correlation between the incidence and mortality rate of breast cancer and the medical expenses in Taiwan. Materials and Methods: Breast cancer cases were identified from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) with corresponding to International Classification of Diseases, and the Ninth Revision (ICD-9) code 174, 1740-1749, 175, 1750 and 1759 from January 1999 to December 2006. Age-specific incidences were estimated by population data obtained from the Department of Statistics, Ministry of the Interior. Medical expenses, including outpatient and inpatient services, were also retrieved from the NHIRD. Results: The incidence increased from 20.06 per 100,000 in 1999 to 30.34 per 100,000 in 2006; the total expenses increased from 1,449,333,521 in 1999 to 4,350,400,592 Taiwan dollars in 2006. The age-standardized mortality rate for female breast cancer remained essentially unchanged, while the age-standardized incidence increased steadily (except 2002-2003). Among the top 20 coexisting ICD-9 codes for expenses, four are directly on cancers, while 16 are on other diseases or symptoms, which are not necessarily caused by breast cancer. Conclusions: Significantly increased medical expenditure on breast cancer failed to bring down its mortality and incidence rate. The finding has implications for healthcare policy planners in proposing strategies for breast cancer control and allocating the resources.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/c2/jcav04p0531.PMC3753527.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2709013", "abstract": "Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a significant risk factor for the development and progression of glaucomatous optic neuropathy, but increasingly we appreciate that non-pressure dependent factors, are key to our understanding of the pathophysiology of these neurodegenerative diseases, that target the retinal ganglion cell. As we try to expand therapy beyond IOP control, medications are being assessed for their neuroprotective abilities. Brimonidine is an effective ocular hypotensive treatment both as a first and second line agent, in the management of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Brimonidine tartrate 0.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/05/f0/PMC2709013.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3444306", "abstract": "Therapeutic intervention in cystic fibrosis (CF) remains a challenge, partly because of the number of organs and tissues affected by the lack of a functional cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. CF was originally regarded primarily as a gastrointestinal (GI) disease because of the failure to thrive and early death from malnutrition in infants with CF. However, successful interventions for the GI manifestations of CF have left chronic lung infections as the primary cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite a complex microbiology within the CF lung, one pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, remains the critical determinant of pulmonary pathology. Treatment and management of this infection and its associated symptoms are the major targets of extant and developing CF therapies. Understanding the multitude of effects of CFTR on mucosal physiology and susceptibility and progression of chronic lung disease, and how host immune responses fail to adequately control lung infection, will be essential for the development of improved therapies for CF.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7f/57/JEM_20121248.PMC3444306.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4842454", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to analyze the biomechanical changes and patterns of the lower extremities after gait termination in middle-aged and elderly women. [Subjects] The study population comprised an elderly group and middle-aged group. [Methods] To collect kinematic and kinetic data related to gait termination, six infrared cameras and one force platform were used, and variables were calculated by using Visual 3D. [Results] During the termination phase, the elderly group generated less braking force than the middle-aged group. During initiation of the termination phase and after the center of gravity completely stopped moving, there was a difference between the two groups in the hip joint angle. During the termination phase, the maximum angular velocity and extension moment of the ankle joint and those of the knee joint were higher in the elderly group than in the middle-aged group. [Conclusion] In contrast to the middle-aged group that showed a rapid increase and then decrease of the initial extension moment during gait termination, the maximum extension moment that was created during the early stage of the termination phase in the elderly group continued until the center of gravity completely stopped.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/ce/jpts-28-861.PMC4842454.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3422153", "abstract": "Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has become a major public health problem and a leading cause of blindness in industrialized nations. AMD results from the ageing eye’s inability to metabolize and dispose completely of photoreceptor outer segments and other waste products. As a result, lipids, particularly apolipoproteins, accumulate within Bruch’s membrane, leading to chronic ischemia and inflammation. The subsequent upregulation of inflammatory cytokines and growth factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), induces the growth of neovascular membranes from the choriocapillaris into the subretinal or subretinal pigment epithelium spaces. To counter this, intravitreally administered drugs (pegaptanib, bevacizumab, ranibizumab) that specifically target VEGF have become the standard treatment for exudative AMD. Aflibercept, a recently approved fusion protein, binds to all isoforms of both VEGF-A and placental growth factor with high affinity. Phase III trials showed that monthly or every other month injections of aflibercept prevent vision loss (fewer than 15 letters) in 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/20/ba/PMC3422153.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3955135", "abstract": " Whole person adaptive comfort is discussed with reference to recent findings in molecular scale systems biology. The observations are upscaled to hypotheses relating to less traditional interpretations of thermal processes, which have new implications for indoor climate management and design. Arguments are presented for a revision of current focus, model and paradigm. The issue is seen as a problem of integrating theoretical development, conceptual modeling and as an investigation of the extent to which environments and acclimatization can be used to achieve individual fitness and health, not only at the subjective comfort level, as hitherto promoted. It is argued that there are many questions yet to be asked about adaptability before celebrating a particular adaptive state.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/eb/484_2013_Article_680.PMC3955135.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4949696", "abstract": "Purpose To present a novel modification of surgical technique to treat female urethral stricture (FUS) by a vaginal-sparing ventral buccal mucosal urethroplasty. Recurrent FUS represents an uncommon, though difficult clinical scenario to manage definitively. A variety of surgical techniques have been described to date, yet a lack of consensus on the optimal procedure persists. Materials and Methods We present a 51-year-old female with urethral stricture involving the entire urethra. Suspected etiology was iatrogenic from cystoscopy 17 years prior. Since then, the patient had undergone at least 25 formal urethral dilations and periods of self-dilation. In lithotomy position, the urethra was dilated to accommodate forceps, and ventral urethrotomy carried out sharply, exposing a bed of periurethral tissue. Buccal mucosa was harvested, and a ventral inlay technique facilitated by a nasal speculum, was used to place the graft from the proximal urethra/bladder neck to urethral meatus without a vaginal incision. Graft was sutured into place, and urethral Foley catheter inserted. Results The vaginal-sparing ventral buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty was deemed successful as of last follow-up. Flexible cystoscopy demonstrated patency of the repair at 6 months. At 10 months of follow-up, the patient was voiding well, with no urinary incontinence. No further interventions have been required. Conclusions This case describes a novel modification of surgical technique for performing buccal mucosal urethroplasty for FUS. By avoiding incision of the vaginal mucosa, benefits may include reduced: morbidity, urinary incontinence, and wound complications including urethro-vaginal fistula.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/e7/icu-57-298.PMC4949696.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3039772", "abstract": "Unpleasant visual symptoms including oscillopsia and dizziness may occur when there is unexpected motion of the visual world across the subject's retina (“retinal slip”) as in an acute spontaneous nystagmus or on head movement with an acute ophthalmoplegia. In contrast, subjects with chronic ocular dysmotility, e.g., congenital nystagmus or chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia, are typically symptom free. The adaptive processes that render chronic patients asymptomatic are obscure but may include a suppression of oscillopsia perception as well as an increased tolerance to perceived oscillopsia. Such chronic asymptomatic patients display an attenuation of vestibular-mediated angular velocity perception, implying a possible contributory role in the adaptive process. In order to assess causality between symptoms, signs (i.e., eye movements), and vestibular–perceptual function, we prospectively assessed symptom ratings and ocular-motor and perceptual vestibular function, in a patient with acute but transient ophthalmoplegia due to Miller Fisher Syndrome (as a model of visuo-vestibular adaptation). The data show that perceptual measures of vestibular function display a significant attenuation as compared to ocular-motor measures during the acute, symptomatic period. Perhaps significantly, both symptomatic recovery and normalization of vestibular–perceptual function were delayed and then occurred in a parallel fashion. This is the first report showing that symptomatic recovery of visuo-vestibular symptoms is better paralleled by vestibular–perceptual testing than vestibular–ocular reflex (VOR) measures. The findings may have implications for the understanding of patients with chronic vestibular symptoms where VOR testing is often unhelpful.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/96/17/PMC3039772.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC138954", "abstract": "The DNA sequence of one of the smallest eukaryotic genomes has recently been finished - that of the reduced nucleus, or nucleomorph, of an algal endosymbiont that resides within a cryptomonad host cell. Its sequence promises insights into chloroplast acquisition, the constraints on genome size and the basic workings of eukaryotic cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/83/PMC138954.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5453679", "abstract": "Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) receptor is a member of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor family. It binds triglyceride rich lipoprotein (TGRL) but not LDL, because it recognizes apolipoprotein (apo)E only but not apoB. The VLDL receptor functions as a peripheral lipoprotein receptor in concert with lipoprotein lipase (LPL) in heart, muscle, adipose tissue and macrophages. In contrast to the LDL receptor, VLDL receptor binds apo E2/2 VLDL and apoE3/3 VLDL particles, and its expression is not down-regulated by intracellular lipoproteins. It has been reported that both LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and postprandial triglyceride (chyromicron and VLDL remnants) are risk factors for human atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). True ligands such as lipoprotein particles of the VLDL receptor are chyromicron remnant (CMR) and VLDL remnant (postprandial hyperlipidemia). Although the oxidized LDL (oxLDL)-scavenger receptors pathway is considered to be the main mechanism for macrophage foam cell formation, it seems that the TGRL-LPL-VLDL receptor pathway is also involved. Since Lp(a) is one of the ligands for the VLDL receptor, the Lp(a)- VLDL receptor pathway is another potential alternative. The expression of VLDL receptor protein in mouse macrophages is modest compared to that in rabbit and human macrophages, both in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, we need to elucidate the mechanism of human ASCVD not by using the mouse model and scavenger receptors pathway but instead using the rabbit model and VLDL receptor pathway, respectively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d5/ec/jat-24-552.PMC5453679.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4461744", "abstract": "The cause of propriospinal myoclonus (PSM) is idiopathic. Cervical trauma, ischemic myelopathy secondary to a spinal dural arteriovenous fistula, syringomyelia, Lyme neuroborreliosis, human immunodeficiency virus central nervous system infection, and cervical disc herniation can be the cause of PSM, but lumbar herniated intervertebral disc (HIVD) induced PSM has not been reported. We describe a patient who presented with PSM induced by HIVD and was treated with an epidural steroid injection using a transforaminal approach.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5b/62/kjs-8-300.PMC4461744.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4736889", "abstract": "Background: Hypertrophic scar is one of the most common complications and often causes the disfigurement or deformity in burn or trauma patients. Therapeutic methods on hypertrophic scar treatment have limitations due to the poor understanding of mechanisms of hypertrophic scar formation. To throw light on the molecular mechanism of hypertrophic scar formation will definitely improve the outcome of the treatment. This study aimed to illustrate the negative role of eukaryotic initiation factor 6 (eIF6) in the process of human hypertrophic scar formation, and provide a possible indicator of hypertrophic scar treatment and a potential target molecule for hypertrophic scar. Methods: In the present study, we investigated the protein expression of eIF6 in the human hypertrophic scar of different periods by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. Results: In the hypertrophic scar tissue, eIF6 expression was significantly decreased and absent in the basal layer of epidermis in the early period, and increased slowly and began to appear in the basal layer of epidermis by the scar formation time. Conclusions: This study confirmed that eIF6 expression was significantly related to the development of hypertrophic scar, and the eIF6 may be a target molecule for hypertrophic scar control or could be an indicator of the outcomes for other treatment modalities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/2e/CMJ-128-2787.PMC4736889.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4280460", "abstract": "Feeding gastrostomy is used worldwide for adults and children with feeding impairment to obtain long-term enteral nutrition. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion is considered the gold standard, but after the first months requires gastrostomy tube replacement with a low-profile button. The replacement is known as an easy procedure, but several minor and major complications may occur during and after the manoeuvre. We describe intraperitoneal bumper migration in a 3-year-old boy, a rare complication following gastrostomy tube replacement, and we discuss the recent literature regarding similar cases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/b9/crg-0008-0381.PMC4280460.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3176427", "abstract": " Background. Recent data suggest that the renin-angiotensin system may be involved in triglyceride (TG) metabolism. We explored the effect of the common A1166C and C573T polymorphisms of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) gene on postprandial lipemia. Methods. Eighty-two subjects measured daytime capillary TG, and postprandial lipemia was estimated as incremental area under the TG curve. The C573T and A1166C polymorphisms of the AT1R gene were determined. Results. Postprandial lipemia was significantly higher in homozygous carriers of the 1166-C allele (9.39 ± 8.36 mM*h/L) compared to homozygous carriers of the 1166-A allele (2.02 ± 6.20 mM*h/L) (P < 0.05). Postprandial lipemia was similar for the different C573T polymorphisms. Conclusion. The 1166-C allele of the AT1R gene seems to be associated with increased postprandial lipemia. These data confirm the earlier described relationships between the renin-angiotensin axis and triglyceride metabolism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/35/98/PMC3176427.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4681797", "abstract": " Introduction. In recent years, the number of contact lens wearers has dramatically increased in Iran, particularly in youngsters. The purpose of current study was to assess the clinical presentation and antibiotic susceptibility of contact lens related microbial keratitis in Ahvaz, southwest of Iran. Methodology. A cross-sectional investigation of 26 patients (33 eyes) with contact lens induced corneal ulcers who were admitted to Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahwaz City, from June 2012 to June 2013 was done. In order to study microbial culture and susceptibility of corneal ulcers, all of them were scraped. Results. Eight samples were reported as sterile. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/58/c2/PMC4681797.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5088158", "abstract": "[Purpose] The present study aimed to determine the changes in physical and balance performance following exercise-induced muscle damage using a sport-specific protocol. [Subjects and Methods] Fifteen collegiate soccer players were asked to perform a sport-specific sprint protocol to induce muscle damage. The markers of muscle damage (soreness, range of motion, limb girth, muscle strength, creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase), physical performance (speed, agility and power) and balance (static and dynamic balance) were assessed at baseline and 24, 48 and 72 hours following the sprint protocol. [Results] All variables, including the markers of muscle damage, physical performance and balance showed a significant difference when assessed at the 4 time points. [Conclusion] The study demonstrated that both the physical and balance performance were affected following repeated sprint protocol in soccer players. It is recommended the balance performance of an athlete be continually assessed following exercise-induced muscle damage so as to determine the appropriate return to sport decision thereby, minimizing the risk of further injury.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/be/jpts-28-2942.PMC5088158.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3312224", "abstract": " Aim. To evaluate the incidence and severity of postendodontic treatment pain (PEP) subsequent to root canal treatment (RCT) in vital and necrotic pulps and after retreatment. Methodology. A prospective study. Participants were all patients (n = 274) who underwent RCT in teeth with vital pulp, necrotic pulp, or vital pulp that had been treated for symptomatic irreversible pulpitis or who received root canal retreatment, by one clinician, during an eight-month period. Exclusion criteria were swelling, purulence, and antibiotic use during initial treatment. A structured questionnaire accessed age, gender, tooth location, and pulpal diagnosis. Within 24 h of treatment, patients were asked to grade their pain at 6 and 18 hours posttreatment, using a 1–5 point scale. Results. RCT of teeth with vital pulp induced a significantly higher incidence and severity of PEP (63.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5a/f7/PMC3312224.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4918157", "abstract": "Using a recently developed real-time reverse transcription PCR, I retested 500 fecal samples from rhesus macaques collected in 2008. Previous conventional reverse transcription PCR testing identified 1 isolate of GII norovirus; retesting found GI, GII, and possible GIV noroviruses in the samples, indicating the natural circulation of noroviruses in nonhuman primate colonies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0c/8c/PMC4918157.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2952902", "abstract": " Objectives. Dental caries is the most common chronic childhood disease, with numerous identified risk factors. Risk factor differences could indicate the need to target caregiver/patient education/preventive care intervention strategies based on population and/or individual characteristics. The purpose of this study was to evaluate caries risk factors differences by race/ethnicity, income, and education. Methods. We enrolled 396 caregiver-toddler pairs and administered a 105-item questionnaire addressing demographics, access to care, oral bacteria transmission, caregiver's/toddler's dental and medical health practices, caregiver's dental beliefs, and caregiver's/toddler's snacking/drinking habits. Logistic regressions and ANOVAs were used to evaluate the associations of questionnaire responses with caregiver's race/ethnicity, income, and education. Results. Caregivers self-identified as Non-Hispanic African-American (44", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/33/PMC2952902.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4386051", "abstract": "Human linguatulosis poses an important medical and veterinary concern in endemic countries. Animals, as reservoir host, play a major role in transmission of infestation and epidemiology of the disease. This study reports a case of human linguatulosis caused by Linguatula serrata in the city of Kerman, South-eastern Iran. A woman suffering from upper respiratory symptoms is presented. The patient consumed raw liver of sheep who was admitted to the Afzalipour University Hospital in Kerman for the symptoms of upper respiratory tract. In microscopic examination of the nasopharyngeal discharge, L. serrata was detected. This report has future medical implication in precise diagnosis of L. serrata in patients with complaints of nasopharyngeal symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1f/e0/PMC4386051.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4948156", "abstract": "Objective: In Nigeria, wide disparities exist between the different parts of the country, with the states in the North East zone having poor health resources. The objective of this study is to assess whether women’s biological, sociocultural, and economic characteristics are associated with utilization of ante natal care services as measured by number of antenatal care (ANC) visits in Yobe State. Methods: This is a secondary data analysis of the 2008 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey with records from 33,385 women between 15-49 years who had given birth between January 2003 and December 2008 in Yobe State. Bivariate Pearson’s Chi square test and two stages of Multivariate regression analysis were conducted. Results: Women with at least primary level education (adjusted OR (AOR) = 2.40; CI 1.24 – 4.67), belonging to professional employment category (AOR = 12.07; CI 0.19 – 75.74) and those who had access to skilled health workers (AOR = 5.13; CI 2.50 – 10.52) are more likely to make the required number of ANC visits compared to those who are illiterates, unemployed and had no access to skilled health workers. Conclusion and Global Health Implications: This study demonstrated that educational level, family wealth income, and availability of skilled health worker were consistently associated with the number of ANC visits even after controlling for covariates. These three covariates are in tandem with the Millenium Development Goals (MDG) 1 - eradication of extreme poverty and hunger; MDG 2 - universal basic education; MDG 3 - gender equality; and MDG 4 - maternal mortality. There is the need for inter-sectoral holistic intervention approach.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/7d/IJMA-4-35.PMC4948156.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4674208", "abstract": "Abstract To explore the efficacy of the revised Atlanta classification (RACAP) and the determinant-based classification of acute pancreatitis severity (DBCAPS) on the basis of clinical data and feedback from patients with acute pancreatitis (AP). The authors retrospectively investigated a total of 573 patients with AP admitted to our hospital between December 2011 and December 2014. The definitions of severity and local complications in AP using RACAP and DBCAPS are presented and common points and mutual differences between the 2 groups are analyzed and discussed. Classification according to RACAP and DBCAPS found 86 (15", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bc/1f/medi-94-e2182.PMC4674208.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5436004", "abstract": "We present a patient with colorectal metastases confined to the lungs and treated with multiple resections until this was not an option anymore, followed by stereotactic body radiation therapy until this option was drained. Then, the patient was successfully treated with multiple microwave ablations combined with immunological activation targeting the programmed cell death 1 receptor (PD-1), possibly instigating a powerful abscopal effect. Techniques, doses, and radiological findings are presented.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/db/b4/cro-0010-0383.PMC5436004.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4408955", "abstract": "Background Recently, brentuximab vedotin has become a promising therapeutic approach for CD30-positive hematological malignancies, but its role in other relapsed or refractory malignant lymphoma needs to be proven. Brentuximab vedotin was demonstrated effective, but no study has summarized the concrete effect of brentuximab vedotin in malignant lymphoma. To truly know the role of brentuximab vedotin, we performed a systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis of all known prospective trials, to assess the value of brentuximab vedotin for patients with relapsed and refractory malignant lymphoma. Methods and materials This was a systematic review of publications indexed in the PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and ISI Web of Knowledge performed on February 10, 2015. Six studies, including 302 patients were identified. Meta-analyses were carried out to calculate the objective response rate (ORR), complete response rate (CRR), and partial response rate (PRR) of brentuximab vedotin for malignant lymphoma. Results In patients with malignant lymphoma, ORR was 0.61, CRR was 0.38, and PRR was 0.51. High heterogeneity between studies was observed, and funnel plots were not symmetrical, which means that publication bias existed. Brentuximab vedotin was generally well-tolerated by patients reported in the included studies; adverse effects also occurred, but they were considered manageable. Conclusion Our analysis revealed a promising benefit of brentuximab vedotin in the treatment of relapsed and refractory malignant lymphoma. Larger sample of randomized controlled clinical trials are needed in the future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/df/59/dddt-9-2277.PMC4408955.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2819905", "abstract": "The latest development of protein engineering allows the production of proteins having desired properties and large potential markets, but the clinical advances of therapeutical proteins are still limited by their fragility. Nanotechnology could provide optimal vectors able to protect from degradation therapeutical biomolecules such as proteins, enzymes or specific polypeptides. On the other hand, some proteins can be also used as active ligands to help nanoparticles loaded with chemotherapeutic or other drugs to reach particular sites in the body. The aim of this review is to provide an overall picture of the general aspects of the most successful approaches used to combine proteins with nanosystems. This combination is mainly achieved by absorption, bioconjugation and encapsulation. Interactions of nanoparticles with biomolecules and caveats related to protein denaturation are also pointed out. A clear understanding of nanoparticle-protein interactions could make possible the design of precise and versatile hybrid nanosystems. This could further allow control of their pharmacokinetics as well as activity, and safety.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/21/69/PMC2819905.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1893012", "abstract": "Vibro-acoustography (VA) is a new imaging modality that has been applied to both medical and industrial imaging. Integrating unique diagnostic information of VA with other medical imaging is one of our research interests. In this work, we establish correspondence between the VA images and traditional X-ray mammogram by adopting a flexible control-point selection technique for image registration. A modified second-order polynomial, which simply leads to a scale/rotation/translation invariant registration, was used. The results of registration were used to spatially transform the breast VA images to map with the X-ray mammography with a registration error of less than 1.65 mm. The fused image is defined as a linear integration of the VA and X-ray images. Moreover, a color-based fusion technique was employed to integrate the images for better visualization of structural information.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ef/15/PMC1893012.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3701821", "abstract": "Background The aim of this study was to determine the cytologic features of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) expressing pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Methods We analyzed the cytopathological findings of 15 cases of endobronchial ultrasound guided aspiration and a case of bronchial washing. These cases were selected based on the histomorphology of ALK-rearranged lung adenocarcinoma. Results Cytology showed mucinous (81.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/23/kjpathol-47-252.PMC3701821.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3417854", "abstract": "Epiglottic cyst is not an unusual disease in the larynx. Although it is usually a benign lesion, airway problems may occur due to a large cyst. Surgical excision is usually the treatment of choice, with low recurrence. Because of the limited view and mobility of laryngoscopes, there is sometimes difficulty in the procedure of excision or marsupialization, especially in wide-based epiglottic cysts. The microdebrider has been widely used in treatment of otolaryngological diseases, and specialized blades were designed for laryngeal lesions. We report the use of a microdebrider for treatment of wide-based epiglottic cysts in six patients. The follow-up period ranged from five months to 62 months without recurrence. One hand-powered instrument provided a clear surgical field for precise removal of the cyst and synchronized suction, and increased mobility of the laryngoscope held in the other hand. In comparison to traditional microinstrumentation and carbon dioxide laser, the microdebrider offered a rapid and effective alternative in treatment of wide-based epiglottic cyst.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d1/5c/PMC3417854.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3432546", "abstract": "In spite of the increased awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms, the predictive value of symptoms remains very low. The aim of this paper is to obtain the views of general practitioners (GPs) in relation to symptom-based detection of ovarian cancer and to assess their knowledge for family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer as a predisposing factor for ovarian cancer. In this questionnaire survey, postal questionnaires were sent to 402 GPs in 132 primary care clinics, out of which we obtained 110 replies (27.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b5/71/PMC3432546.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5059567", "abstract": "Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) has a median survival less than 5 months and, to date, no effective therapy exists. Taxanes have recently been stated as the main drug treatment for ATC, and the histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid efficiently potentiates the effects of paclitaxel in vitro. Based on these data, this trial assessed the efficacy and safety of the combination of paclitaxel and valproic acid for the treatment of ATC. This was a randomized, controlled phase II/III trial, performed on 25 ATC patients across 5 centers in northwest Italy. The experimental arm received the combination of paclitaxel (80 mg/m2/weekly) and valproic acid (1,000 mg/day); the control arm received paclitaxel alone. Overall survival and disease progression, evaluated in terms of progression-free survival, were the primary outcomes. The secondary outcome was the pharmacokinetics of paclitaxel. The coadministration of valproic acid did not influence the pharmacokinetics of paclitaxel. Neither median survival nor median time to progression was statistically different in the two arms. Median survival of operated-on patients was significantly better than that of patients who were not operated on. The present trial demonstrates that the addition of valproic acid to paclitaxel has no effect on overall survival and disease progression of ATC patients. This trial is registered with EudraCT 2008-005221-11. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/61/PMC5059567.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3663067", "abstract": "Here, we present the case of a patient with bilateral choroidal metastases with extraocular extension in one eye. Metastasis of papillary thyroid carcinoma to the uvea is extremely rare, with only 6 patients reported in the literature. A 62-year-old man with a prior history of papillary thyroid carcinoma suffered the rapid loss of vision in his right eye. He had neovascular glaucoma, total retinal detachment, and a solitary choroidal mass. A month later, his left visual acuity also decreased because of a small macular choroidal mass. The right eye was enucleated and a nodular lesion over the sclera representing extraocular extension was observed. This tumor and the intraocular lesion were composed of papillary excrescences and cystic spaces and stained positively for thyroid transcription factor 1 and thyroglobulin, all confirming the diagnosis of metastatic papillary thyroid carcinoma. The tumor in the left eye was successfully treated with diode laser transpupillary thermotherapy. The patient expired within a month as a result of widespread pulmonary metastases. Papillary thyroid carcinoma may metastasize to the uvea bilaterally, cause rapid visual function loss, erode the sclera, and may extend outside the globe similar to choroidal melanoma. This aggressive ocular involvement was associated with a dismal prognosis in our patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3a/b6/kjo-27-215.PMC3663067.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4441942", "abstract": "Abstract Background In the absence of dysphagia-oriented food products, rheological characterization of available food items is of importance for safe swallowing and adequate nutrient intake of dysphagic patients. In this way, introducing alternative items (with similar ease of swallow) is helpful to improve quality of life and nutritional intake of esophageal cancer dysphagia patients. The present study aimed at rheological characterization and cluster classification of potentially suitable foodstuffs marketed in Iran for their possible use in dysphagia diets. Methods In this descriptive study, rheological data were obtained during January and February 2012 in Rheology Lab of National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute Tehran, Iran. Steady state and oscillatory shear parameters of 39 commercial samples were obtained using a Physica MCR 301 rheometer (Anton-Paar, GmbH, Graz, Austria). Matlab Fuzzy Logic Toolbox (R2012 a) was utilized for cluster classification of the samples. Results Using an extended list of rheological parameters and fuzzy logic methods, 39 commercial samples (drinks, main courses and desserts) were divided to 5 clusters and degree of membership to each cluster was stated by a number between 0 and 0.99. Conclusion Considering apparent viscosity of foodstuffs as a single criterion for classification of dysphagia-oriented food products is shortcoming of current guidelines in dysphagia diets. Authors proposed to some revisions in classification of dysphagia-oriented food products and including more rheological parameters (especially, viscoelastic parameters) in the classification.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/94/04/PMC4441942.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4278488", "abstract": "Although bioethics is an important topic in modern society, it is not a required part of the curriculum for many biology degree programs in the United States. Students in our program are exposed to biologically relevant ethical issues informally in many classes, but we do not have a requirement for a separate bioethics course. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is a recent nonfiction book that describes the life of the woman whose cervical cancer biopsy gave rise to the HeLa cell line, as well as discussing relevant medical, societal, and ethical issues surrounding human tissue use for research. Weekly reading assignments from the book with discussion questions and a final paper were used to engage students in learning about the ethics of human subjects and human tissues research. Students were surveyed for qualitative feedback on the usefulness of including this book as part of the course. This book has been a successful platform for increasing student knowledge and interest in ethics related to biomedical and biological research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/2f/jmbe-15-240.PMC4278488.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3198611", "abstract": "The petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, and aqueous extracts of Heliotropium indicum Linn. (Family: Boraginaceae) were separately evaluated for their wound healing activity in rats using excision (normal and infected), incision, and dead space wound models. The effects of test samples on the rate of wound healing were assessed by the rate of wound closure, period of epithelialisation, wound breaking strength, weights of the granulation tissue, determination of hydroxyproline, super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and histopathology of the granulation tissues. Nitrofurazone (0.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/58/7b/PMC3198611.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5018297", "abstract": "We aimed to investigate the effects of dietary combination of honey and Ardeh on chemotherapy-induced complications in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). A total of 107 AML patients who underwent chemotherapy for at least 30 consecutive dayswere recruited to this double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical-trial which was conducted in the Imam Reza and Ghaem teaching hospitals (Mashhad, Iran). They weredivided into two age and sex-matched groups: 58 treated and 49 untreated patients. A combination of 50 grams of honey and 150 grams of Ardehwas added to the treated group’s diet for 30consecutive days, three times each day; while the untreated group received their regular diet.Both groups received their standard medication for AML as well. After one month, they were all examined and lab tests were done on them by an internist and laboratory technicians who were blinded to the subject allocations. Mean value of WBC count in treated group was significantly lower than that of untreated group. Duration of fever and admission in the hospital due to fever were both significantly lower in the treated group (P=0.014, P=0.032 respectively). Total gastrointestinal complications were significantly less in the treated group one month after therapy with the special honey and Ardeh compound.No unusual or unexpected side effects were observed. Honey and Ardehare easily accessible materials that can be helpfully administered in AML patientsreceiving chemotherapy, since their useful effects in ameliorating gastrointestinal complications and reducingfever and neutropenia in AML patients have been shown.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9b/fb/PMC5018297.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5388251", "abstract": "Purpose The purpose of this study was to clarify differences between highly myopic and non-myopic primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients, including normal-tension glaucoma patients. Patients and methods A total of 269 POAG patients were divided into two groups: patients with ≥26.5 mm of axial length (highly myopic group) and patients with <24.0 mm of axial length (non-myopic group). Results We analyzed 53 highly myopic and 93 non-myopic POAG patients. Age at first visit of the highly myopic group was significantly less than that of the non-myopic group (P<0.0001). Baseline intraocular pressures (IOPs) showed no significant differences. Follow-up IOPs of the non-myopic group were significantly lower than those of the highly myopic group (P=0.0009). According to the mean deviation definition of progression, the cumulative probability of non-progression of visual field (VF) loss was significantly greater in the highly myopic group (10-year survival rate, 73.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/67/e7/opth-11-599.PMC5388251.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4616790", "abstract": "Abstract To compare the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection over a 10-year period in terms of population-level trends, we established hypothetical birth cohorts that represented each 10-year interval age group. We used data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys conducted between 1998 to 2001 and 2008 to 2011. Trends in the HBV infection were calculated using data from individuals aged 20 to 59 years in 1998 to 2001 and those aged 30 to 69 years in 2008 to 2011. In 2008 to 2011, the prevalence of HBV infection, as measured using serum HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) seroprevalence, among participants aged 30 to 69 years was 4.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/c5/medi-94-e1469.PMC4616790.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5410478", "abstract": "A 55-year-old man was transported to our hospital after a sudden onset of left lower abdominal pain while driving. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdominal region revealed an extensive iso-intense signal region that had a maximum area of 14×15 cm, which we treated conservatively. A series of follow-up CT images showed the gradual decrease of the left peritoneal mass, while continuity with the left adrenal gland became apparent. He was diagnosed with idiopathic adrenal hemorrhage. Adrenal hemorrhage presenting with huge retroperitoneal tumors is rare, and most cases are treated surgically. Therefore, CT images with conservative treatment are rare, holding both clinical interest and significance. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d5/62/1349-7235-56-0673.PMC5410478.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3319891", "abstract": "Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) is an important cause of poor outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). We studied differences in incidence and impact of DCI as defined clinically after coiling and after clipping in the International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial. We calculated odds ratios (OR) for DCI for clipping versus coiling with logistic regression analysis. With coiled patients without DCI as the reference group, we calculated ORs for poor outcome at 2 months and 1 year for coiled patients with DCI and for clipped patients without, and with DCI. With these ORs, we calculated relative excess risk due to Interaction (RERI). Clipping increased the risk of DCI compared to coiling in the 2,143 patients OR 1.24, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/05/415_2011_Article_6243.PMC3319891.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5445203", "abstract": "Background Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a rare type of extranodal lymphoma with growth mainly in the lumina of vessels. We studied a small series of IVLBCL and focused on its central nervous system (CNS) involvement.  Methods Searching the medical records of Northwestern Memorial Hospital, we identified five cases of IVLBCL from January 2007 to January 2015. Clinical information, hematoxylin and eosin stained histologic slides and immunohistochemistry studies were reviewed for all cases. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis for the immunoglobulin (Ig) heavy and light chain gene rearrangement was performed on all five cases. Results Three of the five cases of IVLBCL were autopsies. Patients’ age ranged from 56 to 84. CNS involvement was present in two cases—in both patients, the CNS involvement showed an extravascular pattern with confluent sheet-like formation. PCR analysis confirmed that in one case the systemic intravascular and CNS extravascular components were clonally identical.  Conclusions In a small case series of IVLBCL, we observed that CNS involvement by IVLBCL often has an extravascular morphology, but is clonally identical to the intravascular counterpart by PCR analysis. As IVLBCL can have a rapidly progressing poor outcome, it should be kept in the differential diagnoses for patients presenting with lymphoma of the CNS. The presence of extravascular growth patterns in the CNS should not exclude IVLBCL as a diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c6/c1/jptm-2017-02-16.PMC5445203.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3804996", "abstract": " [Purpose] This study investigated the changes in acromion and scapular position after short-term overhead work. [Subjects] Twelve males aged 20–27 years, were recruited. [Methods] We measured the acromial angle and scapular inferior distance using a palpation meter before and after overhead work. [Results] The acromion angle was significantly decreased after the overhead work compared to before. The scapular inferior distance was significantly increased after the overhead work compared to before. [Conclusion] Even though the overhead work was short-term work lasting less than one hour, it resulted in an abnormal scapular position.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/e1/jpts-25-679.PMC3804996.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1616948", "abstract": "Proteins with sequence similarity to the yeast Snf2 protein form a large family of ATPases that act to alter the structure of a diverse range of DNA–protein structures including chromatin. Snf2 family enzymes are related in sequence to DExx box helicases, yet they do not possess helicase activity. Recent biochemical and structural studies suggest that the mechanism by which these enzymes act involves ATP-dependent translocation on DNA. Crystal structures suggest that these enzymes travel along the minor groove, a process that can generate the torque or energy in remodelling processes. We review the recent structural and biochemical findings which suggest a common mechanistic basis underlies the action of many of both Snf2 family and DExx box helicases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/75/a4/gkl540.PMC1616948.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4345193", "abstract": "Spinal neurenteric cysts are uncommon congenital lesions, furthermore solitary neurenteric cysts of the upper cervical spine are very rare. A 15-year-old boy having an intraspinal neurenteric cyst located at cervical spine presented with symptoms of neck pain and both shoulders pain for 2 months. Cervical spine magnetic resonance (MR) imaging demonstrated an intradural extramedullary cystic mass at the C1-3 level without enhancement after gadolinium injection. There was no associated malformation on the MR imaging, computed tomography, and radiography. Hemilaminectomy at the C1-3 levels was performed and the lesion was completely removed through a posterior approach. Histological examination showed the cystic wall lined with ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium containing mucinous contents. Neurenteric cyst should be considered in the diagnosis of spinal solitary cystic mass.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/97/07/jkns-57-135.PMC4345193.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4185323", "abstract": "Spinal meningiomas typically adhere to the dura matter. Non-dural based spinal meningiomas are rare and most are clear cell meningiomas. We report here the first case of a fibrous meningioma with non-dural attachment. The patient was a 49-year-old female, who complained of numbness in the legs and a gait disturbance. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 1.7×1.4-cm mass in the C7-T1 intra-dural extramedullary space, showing peripheral gadolinium enhancement without a \"dural tail sign\". A complete microsurgical resection was performed. The mass was covered with a white membrane but was not adhered to the dura, and its appearance was consistent with a neurilemmoma. The histopathological diagnosis was fibrous-type meningioma. The recovery of the patient was uneventful. No surgical complications and no recurrence of the tumor had occurred at the 6-month follow-up.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0d/d1/jkns-56-58.PMC4185323.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3375094", "abstract": "Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) had its origins in numerous small animal studies primarily examining safety and feasibility. In human trials, safety and feasibility remain at the forefront; however, additional logistic, practical, and regulatory requirements must be addressed. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and summarize published studies to date of NOTES in humans. The literature review was performed using PUBMED and MEDLINE databases. Articles published in human populations between 2007 and 2011 were evaluated. A review of this time period resulted in 48 studies describing procedures in 916 patients. Transcolonic and transvesicular procedures were excluded. The most common procedure was cholecystectomy (682, 75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1d/6a/PMC3375094.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4333851", "abstract": "Primary sternal osteomyelitis is a rare disease. Common infectious organisms causing primary sternal osteomyelitis include Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Actinomyces species are common saprophytes of the oral cavity, but there have been few reports in the literature of primary sternal osteomyelitis caused by Actinomyces species. We describe a case of primary sternal osteomyelitis caused by Actinomyces israelii without pulmonary involvement.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/bb/kjtcvs-48-86.PMC4333851.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4337109", "abstract": "Palatal rugae patterns have unique characteristics and have been proposed as an alternative method to establish identity when other means, such as fingerprints and dental records, are not attainable. This study was conducted to determine the morphological characteristics of palatine rugae and to assess the existence of side asymmetry in them in Sudanese Arabs. It also assesses the possibility of determining sex using logistic regression. One hundred dental casts for 50 males and 50 females aged between 18 and 23 were studied for palatal rugae dimensions, shapes, and orientations, as well as sexual dimorphism and side symmetry. The most predominant rugae were primary, and the most prevalent shapes in both sexes were wavy, curved, and straight forms. The predominant orientation was forward. Side asymmetry existed more in the orientations than in the shapes, but no side asymmetry was recorded in the dimensions. There was no significant sexual dimorphism in the rugae dimensions, shapes, and orientations, except for forward-directed rugae (P < 0.037). A predictive value of 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3b/d3/PMC4337109.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4165672", "abstract": "We present a case of a 27–year–old man with a history of weight loss. A chest x–ray demonstrated hilar lymphadenopathy and he was treated with anti tuberculosis treatment. He noticed a painless left scrotal swelling and a scrotal ultrasound scan raised the possibility of testicular cancer. He underwent an orchidectomy and histology confirmed a testicular sarcoidosis. He was commenced on steroid treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/97/CEJU-67-00357.PMC4165672.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4334336", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the 5-year incidence rate of blebitis and bleb-associated endophthalmitis in the United States. Methods In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we utilized a large commercial health insurance claim-based database during 2007–2011 and identified all patients who had a record of trabeculectomy in 2007. These patients were followed until the end of 2011. During the follow-up period, all incidences of blebitis, confirmed bleb-associated endophthalmitis, and presumed bleb-associated endophthalmitis were recorded. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was utilized to calculate 5-year cumulative incidence rates of blebitis and bleb-associated endophthalmitis following trabeculectomy procedures. Results Among the 1,461 trabeculectomies included in our analysis, eight cases of blebitis, five cases of confirmed bleb-associated endophthalmitis, and eight cases of presumed bleb-associated endophthalmitis were identified. We found that the 5-year cumulative incidence of blebitis was 0.55", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/f3/opth-9-317.PMC4334336.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3341820", "abstract": "Purpose This study evaluated the clinical presentations of Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) septic arthritis after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Materials and Methods Between September 2006 and February 2008, S. epidermidis septic arthritis developed in six patients following arthroscopic ACLR. We reviewed the medical records retrospectively and interviewed the patients. Results The average interval between ACLR and symptom onset was 4.7 days (range, 2 to 8 days). Local warmth, swelling limited knee motion and general malaise were observed in varying degrees in all the patients. The fever was generally slight with an intermittent spiking pattern. Postoperative erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein were elevated. After the development of infection, the joint was aspirated in all cases. The white blood cell count was at least 22,400, with the presence of 80 to 90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/36/ksrr-24-46.PMC3341820.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4707304", "abstract": "Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has high negative predictive power for detecting coronary artery disease. However CCTA is limited by moderate positive predictive power in the detection of myocardial ischemia. This is not unexpected because the diameter of a stenosis is a poor indicator of myocardial ischemia and discrepancy between the severity of stenosis and noninvasive tests is not uncommon. The value of stenosis for predicting future development of acute coronary syndrome represented by plaque rupture has been questioned. CCTA identifies the characteristics of high-risk plaque including positive remodeling, low density plaque and spotty or micro-calcification. Also, additional evaluation of myocardial ischemia using computational flow dynamics, and luminal attenuation gradient are expected to increase both diagnostic performance for hemodynamically significant stenosis and the predictive power for future cardiovascular risk. Technical advances in CCTA would enable evaluation of both coronary artery stenosis and myocardial ischemia simultaneously with high predictive performance, and would improve vastly the clinical value of CCTA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/0c/jcu-23-204.PMC4707304.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3403168", "abstract": "Neutrophil function is thought to be regulated, in large part, by limitation of lifespan by apoptosis. A number of studies suggest that circulating neutrophils have a half-life of approximately 6 hours, although contradictory evidence exists. Measuring tissue neutrophil lifespan, however, is more problematic. It is thought that tissue neutrophils survive longer, perhaps with a half-life in the order of 3–5 days, but this has never been directly measured. Zebrafish are an emerging model organism, with several advantages for the study of vertebrate immunity. In zebrafish, neutrophils constitutively assume tissue locations allowing their direct study in vivo. Using a transgenic approach, neutrophils were labelled with a photoconvertible pigment, Kaede. Photoconversion parameters were optimised and the stability of the Kaede confirmed. Individual neutrophils were photoconverted by scanning a confocal 405 nm laser specifically over each cell and their survival monitored for 48 hours, revealing an in vivo half-life for zebrafish tissue neutrophils of around 120 hours (117.7 hrs, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/b7/PMC3403168.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4672620", "abstract": "Elizabethkingia meningoseptica is a nonfermentative gram-negative bacillus that is ubiquitously found in hospital environments and as such, it has been associated with various nosocomial infections. Immunocompromised individuals are particularly at increased risk for developing severe infections due to E. meningoseptica, including bacteremia. E. meningoseptica is resistant to multiple antimicrobials commonly used for gram-negative bacteria and conventional empirical antimicrobials targeting those organisms may result in unfavorable outcome. We report a case of bacteremia due to E. meningoseptica in a patient who necessitated chronic hemodialysis therapy to heighten awareness of this emerging pathogen among patients on hemodialysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9c/90/main.PMC4672620.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4392967", "abstract": " Introduction. Substance use disorders (SUDs) are commonly associated with a variety of psychiatric disorders. Community-based studies have found a significant association between SUDs and sexual dysfunction in men, with a possible causal relation in the case of nicotine. Methods. The case records of 105 men presenting to a clinic for patients with psychosexual disorders were reviewed. Men with and without comorbid SUDs were compared in terms of demographic, clinical, and familial variables. Results. 25 of the 105 men (23.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9d/3b/PMC4392967.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4251795", "abstract": "Accumulated soluble amyloid beta- (Aβ-) induced aberrant neuronal network activity may directly contribute to cognitive deficits, which are the most outstanding characteristics of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The entorhinal cortex (EC) is one of the earliest affected brain regions in AD. Impairments of EC neurons are responsible for the cognitive deficits in AD. However, little effort has been made to investigate the effects of soluble Aβ on the discharge properties of EC neurons in vivo. The present study was designed to examine the effects of soluble Aβ 1−42 on the discharge properties of EC neurons, using in vivo extracellular single unit recordings. The protective effects of gastrodin (GAS) were also investigated against Aβ 1−42-induced alterations in EC neuronal activities. The results showed that the spontaneous discharge of EC neurons was increased by local application of soluble Aβ 1−42 and that GAS can effectively reverse Aβ 1−42-induced facilitation of spontaneous discharge in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, whole-cell patch clamp results indicated that the protective function of GAS on abnormal hyperexcitability may be partially mediated by its inhibitory action on Aβ 1−42-elicited inward currents in EC neurons. Our study suggested that GAS may provide neuroprotective effects on Aβ 1−42-induced hyperactivity in EC neurons of rats.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/28/PMC4251795.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3981230", "abstract": "Arthrography is useful method to evaluate obstruct factors and the congruity of the femoral head for developmental dysplasia of the hip. We usually use an air injection to ascertain whether the needle is accurately insert intraarticularly, because leakage of the contrast medium may make it difficult to identify intraarticular structure in the hip joint. We report the experience the case that suspected air embolism by air injection in the arthrogram. An air injection for arthrography must be avoided the case of infants. To confirm that a needle is correctly inserted intraarticularly, it is preferable to inject saline. Alternatively, it may be suitable to use sonography for confirming the position of the needle for arthrography.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/98/2f/cp-2013-1-e12.PMC3981230.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4024159", "abstract": "Background Several studies have reported an association between chronic periodontitis (CP) and cardiovascular diseases. Detection of periodontopathogens, including red complex bacteria (RCB), in vascular lesions has suggested these bacteria to be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysms. Objective In this study, we investigate bacteria and their DNA in vascular biopsies from patients with vascular diseases (VD; i.e. abdominal aortic aneurysms, atherosclerotic carotid, and common femoral arteries), with and without CP. Methods DNA was extracted from vascular biopsies selected from 40 VD patients: 30 with CP and 10 without CP. The V3-V5 region of the 16S rDNA (V3-V5) was polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-amplified, and the amplicons were cloned into Escherichia coli, sequenced, and classified (GenBank and the Human Oral Microbiome database). Species-specific primers were used for the detection of Porphyromonas gingivalis. In addition, 10 randomly selected vascular biopsies from the CP group were subjected to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for visualization of bacteria. Checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization was performed to assess the presence of RCB in 10 randomly selected subgingival plaque samples from CP patients. Results A higher load and mean diversity of bacteria were detected in vascular biopsies from VD patients with CP compared to those without CP. Enterobacteriaceae were frequently detected in vascular biopsies together with cultivable, commensal oral, and not-yet-cultured bacterial species. While 70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/86/f9/JOM-6-23408.PMC4024159.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4904886", "abstract": "Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) activates unfolded protein response sensors in the endoplasmic reticulum through phospholipase C gamma (PLCγ)-mediated crosstalk with mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). Activation of transcription factor 6 (ATF6) and protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) activate mTORC2, ensuring maximal endothelial cell survival and angiogenic activity through phosphorylation of AKT on Ser473. As mTORC1 is a metabolic sensor, metabolic signals may be integrated with signals from VEGF in the regulation of angiogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fa/52/kmco-01-03-964024.PMC4904886.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3059701", "abstract": "Synaptic plasticity has historically been investigated most intensely in the hippocampus and therefore it is somewhat surprising that the majority of studies on spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) have focused not in the hippocampus but on synapses in the cortex. One of the major reasons for this bias is the relative ease in obtaining paired electrophysiological recordings from synaptically coupled neurons in cortical slices, in comparison to hippocampal slices. Another less obvious reason has been the difficulty in achieving reliable STDP in the hippocampal slice preparation and confusion surrounding the conditions required. The original descriptions of STDP in the hippocampus was performed on paired recordings from neurons in dissociated or slice cultures utilizing single pairs of presynaptic and postsynaptic spikes and were subsequently replicated in acute hippocampal slices. Further work in several laboratories using conditions that more closely replicate the situation in vivo revealed a requirement for multiple postsynaptic spikes that necessarily complicate the absolute timing rules for STDP. Here we review the hippocampal STDP literature focusing on data from acute hippocampal slice preparations and highlighting apparently contradictory results and the variations in experimental conditions that might account for the discrepancies. We conclude by relating the majority of the available experimental data to a model for STDP induction in the hippocampus based on a critical role for postsynaptic Ca2+ dynamics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/2f/PMC3059701.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5422328", "abstract": "Objectives To determine the prevalence, types and severity of hearing loss and associated factors in a hospital population of adult Nigerians with diabetes mellitus. Subjects and methods This study was a prospective hospital-based study conducted at the Otorhinolaryngology and Diabetic Clinics of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu, for a period of 12 months. Consecutively presenting eligible adult diabetics and their age- and sex-matched healthy controls were recruited. Each case and control participant had clinical and otologic examination, followed by pure tone audiometry. Data were analyzed using descriptive and comparative statistics. Results There were 224 patients and 192 control participants. The patients comprised 112 males and 112 females (sex ratio=1:1), whose mean age was 47.6 years (range: 26–80 years). The prevalence of hearing loss was 46.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/f6/dmso-10-155.PMC5422328.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3246789", "abstract": "Due to its prevalence, prostate cancer represents a serious health problem. The treatment, when required, may be local in case of limited disease, locoregional if lymph nodes are involved, and systemic when distant metastases are present. In order to choose the best treatment regimen, an accurate disease staging is mandatory. However, the accuracy of conventional imaging modalities in detecting lymph node and bone metastases is low. In the last decade, molecular imaging, particularly, choline PET-CT has been evaluated in this setting. Choline PET represents the more accurate exam to stage high-risk prostate cancer, and it is useful in staging patients with biochemical relapse, in particular when PSA kinetics is high and/or PSA levels are more than 2 pg/ml. The present paper reports results of available papers on these issues, with particular attention to lymph node staging.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/64/92/PMC3246789.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3699981", "abstract": "Exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) is a serious threat to public health, and a significant cause of lung cancer and heart disease among non-smokers. Even though Greek hospitals have been declared smoke free since 2002, smoking is still evident. Keeping the above into account, the aim of this study was to quantify the levels of exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and to estimate the attributed lifetime excess heart disease and lung cancer deaths per 1000 of the hospital staff, in a large Greek public hospital. Environmental airborne respirable suspended particles (RSP) of PM2.5 were performed and the personnpel’s excess mortality risk was estimated using risk prediction formulas. Excluding the intensive care unit and the operating theatres, all wards and clinics were polluted with environmental tobacco smoke. Mean SHS-RSP measurements ranged from 11 to 1461 μg/m3 depending on the area. Open wards averaged 84 μg/m3 and the managing wards averaged 164 μg/m3 thus giving an excess lung cancer and heart disease of 1.12 (range 0.23–1.88) and 11.2 (range 2.3–18.8) personnel in wards and 2.35 (range 0.55–12.2) and 23.5 (range 5.5–122) of the managing staff per 1000 over a 40-year lifespan, respectively. Conclusively, SHS exposure in hospitals in Greece is prevalent and taking into account the excess heart disease and lung cancer mortality risk as also the immediate adverse health effects of SHS exposure, it is clear that proper implementation and enforcement of the legislation that bans smoking in hospitals is imperative to protect the health of patients and staff alike.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b5/c2/PMC3699981.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5110359", "abstract": " Study Design Prospective clinical study.  Objective Posterior decompression and fusion surgery for beak-type thoracic ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (T-OPLL) generally has a favorable outcome. However, some patients require additional surgery for postoperative severe paralysis, a condition that is inadequately discussed in the literature. The objective of this study was to describe the efficacy of a procedure we refer to as “resection at an anterior site of the spinal cord from a posterior approach” (RASPA) for severely paralyzed patients after posterior decompression and fusion surgery for beak-type T-OPLL.  Methods Among 58 consecutive patients who underwent posterior decompression and fusion surgery for beak-type T-OPLL since 1999, 3 with postoperative paralysis (5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/6e/PMC5110359.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4764108", "abstract": "Objective(s): This study aims to investigate joint association between cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) polymorphisms and body mass index (BMI) or birth weight with the risk of dyslipidemia in Iranian children and adolescents. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted as a sub-study of the “school-based nationwide health survey” (CASPIAN-III). We randomly selected 750 samples from the whole blood samples. Real-time PCR and high resolution melt (HRM) analysis were performed to determine Taq1B (rs708272) and A373P (rs5880) polymorphisms. Results: Taq1B polymorphism increased HDL-C, and total cholesterol (TC) as well as decreased triglyceride and LDL-C concentrations. LDL-C and triglyceride levels were significantly higher and HDL-C and TC levels were significantly lower among those with A373P polymorphism. CT/TT genotype in Taq1B polymorphism showed a protective effect on dyslipidemia (OR= 0.12, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f2/75/IJBMS-11-1079.PMC4764108.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3417940", "abstract": "Epistaxis is the commonest emergency in otorhinolaryngology. Over the last decade endoscopic sphenopalatine artery (SPA) ligation has become a popular treatment option for posterior epistaxis and has been shown to be the most effective and cost-efficient definitive treatment for posterior epistaxis. SPA ligation is usually performed under general anesthesia. The majority of epistaxis patients are elderly, frail and have multiple medical conditions. These patients are therefore not always amenable to general anesthesia. In this article we describe two cases where posterior epistaxis was successfully treated with sphenopalatine artery ligation under local anesthesia and should be considered suitable for patients with severe posterior epistaxis who are not fit for a general anesthetic.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/07/4c/PMC3417940.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4060399", "abstract": "Positron emission tomography (PET) in combination with computed tomography (PET-CT) is commonly used to identify malignant lesion in the lung. Despite there being only a few reports in literature, PET-CT imaging may have many advantages in the study of sarcoidosis, being useful in the diagnosis as well as in monitoring the response to treatment. The object of this case report is to highlight the clinical utility of integrated PET-CT imaging for evaluation of patients with systemic sarcoidosis and for comparing baseline findings to follow-up readings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/24/71/JCIS-4-21.PMC4060399.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4356486", "abstract": "The genome-wide discoveries such as detection of copy number alterations (CNA) from high-throughput whole-genome sequencing data enabled new developments in personalized medicine. The CNAs have been reported to be associated with various diseases and cancers including acute myeloid leukemia. However, there are multiple challenges to the use of current CNA detection tools that lead to high false-positive rates and thus impede widespread use of such tools in cancer research. In this paper, we discuss these issues and propose possible solutions. First, since the entire genome cannot be mapped due to some regions lacking sequence uniqueness, current methods cannot be appropriately adjusted to handle these regions in the analyses. Thus, detection of medium-sized CNAs is also being directly affected by these mappability problems. The requirement for matching control samples is also an important limitation because acquiring matching controls might not be possible or might not be cost efficient. Here we present an approach that addresses these issues and detects medium-sized CNAs in cancer genomes by (1) masking unmappable regions during the initial CNA detection phase, (2) using pool of a few normal samples as control, and (3) employing median filtering to adjust CNA ratios to its surrounding coverage and eliminate false positives.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/9e/PMC4356486.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5031834", "abstract": " Objectives. We aimed to assess the variation of insulin sensitivity in relation to obesity in women living with PCOS in a sub-Sahara African setting. Methods. We studied body composition, insulin sensitivity, and resting energy expenditure in 14 PCOS patients (6 obese and 8 nonobese) compared to 10 matched nonobese non-PCOS subjects. Insulin sensitivity was assessed using the gold standard 80 mU/m2/min euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp and resting energy expenditure was measured by indirect calorimetry. Results. Insulin sensitivity adjusted to lean mass was lowest in obese PCOS subjects and highest in healthy subjects (11.2 [10.1–12.4] versus 12.9 [12.1–13.8] versus 16.6 [13.8–17.9], p = 0.012); there was a tendency for resting energy expenditure adjusted for total body mass to decrease across the groups highest in obese PCOS subjects (1411 [1368–1613] versus 1274 [1174–1355] versus 1239 [1195–1454], p = 0.306). Conclusion. In this sub-Saharan population, insulin resistance is associated with PCOS per se but is further aggravated by obesity. Obesity did not seem to be explained by low resting energy expenditure suggesting that dietary intake may be a determinant of the obesity in this context.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/02/c1/PMC5031834.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3781240", "abstract": "Background The ESR and EFSUMB have issued a joint statement about the necessity of a formal report for all ultrasonographic examinations as well as proper archiving of both reports and images within hospital information technology (IT) systems. Both societies agreed on the importance of availability of US images and reports in clinical practice and agreed on a formal recommendation to their members on this topic. Main messages • Availability of reports and images of all US examinations is important in clinical practice as a record of patient status at the time of the studies and as a point of references for future studies, with either US or other imaging modalities. • Both ESR and EFSUMB consider it good clinical practice to provide accurate and retrievable recordings of all ultrasonographic examinations. • Both ESR and EFSUMB recommend to their members to organise workflow in ultrasonography so that proper archiving of both images and reports of all studies can be regularly obtained.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9c/f1/13244_2013_Article_263.PMC3781240.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4193025", "abstract": "Average fiscal year 1982 wages from 2,302 rural American hospitals were used to test for a gradient descending from hospitals in counties adjacent to metropolitan areas to those not adjacent. Considerable variation in the ratios of adjacent to nonadjacent averages existed. No statistically significant difference was found, however. Of greater importance in explaining relative wages within States were occupational mix, mix of part-time and full-time workers, case mix, presence of medical residencies, and location in a high-rent county within the State. Medicare already adjusts payments for only two of these variables.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/c3/PMC4193025.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5395108", "abstract": "Hematopoietic–specific microRNA-142 is a critical regulator of various blood cell lineages, but its role in erythrocytes is unexplored. Herein, we characterize the impact of microRNA-142 on erythrocyte physiology and molecular cell biology, using a mouse loss-of-function allele. We report that microRNA-142 is required for maintaining the typical erythrocyte biconcave shape and structural resilience, for the normal metabolism of reactive oxygen species, and for overall lifespan. microRNA-142 further controls ACTIN filament homeostasis and membrane skeleton organization. The analyses presented reveal previously unappreciated functions of microRNA-142 and contribute to an emerging view of small RNAs as key players in erythropoiesis. Finally, the work herein demonstrates how a housekeeping network of cytoskeletal regulators can be reshaped by a single micro-RNA denominator in a cell type specific manner.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d0/c9/1020676.PMC5395108.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5015378", "abstract": "Background Kawasaki disease (KD) is a pediatric vasculitis with coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) as a major complication. Controversy exists about cardiovascular risk later in life. The aim of our study was to evaluate whether KD patients are at increased risk, as assessed by carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT). Methods and Results We measured cIMT over 15 years by B‐mode ultrasonography in KD patients during follow‐up and in unaffected controls (mostly siblings). A multilevel, repeated‐measures, linear mixed‐effects model was used to evaluate the association between KD and cIMT. A total of 319 patients with 528 measurements were compared with 150 controls. In KD patients, the mean cIMT was increased compared with controls (0.375 mm [95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e9/14/JAH3-5-e003414.PMC5015378.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4761432", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objectives Cone-beam computed tomography in dentistry can be used in some countries by other dentists than specialists in radiology. The frequency of buying cone-beam computed tomography to examine patients is rapidly growing, thus knowledge of how to use it is very important. The aim was to compare the outcome of an investigation on the use of cone-beam computed tomography in Sweden with a previous Norwegian study, regarding specifically technical aspects. Material and Methods The questionnaire contained 45 questions, including 35 comparable questions to Norwegian clinics one year previous. Results were based on inter-comparison of the outcome from each of the two questionnaire studies. Results Responses rate was 71", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ae/17/jomr-06-e2.PMC4761432.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3129969", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION: The role of structural brain changes and their correlations with neuropsychiatric symptoms and disability in Alzheimer's disease are still poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: To establish whether structural changes in grey matter volume in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease are associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms and disability. METHODS: Nineteen Alzheimer's disease patients (9 females; total mean age  = 75.2 y old ±4.7; total mean education level  = 8.5 y ±4.9) underwent a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination and voxel-based morphometry analysis. T1-weighted images were spatially normalized and segmented. Grey matter images were smoothed and analyzed using a multiple regression design. The results were corrected for multiple comparisons. The Neuropsychiatric Inventory was used to evaluate the neuropsychiatric symptoms, and the Functional Activities Questionnaire and Disability Assessment for Dementia were used for functional evaluation. RESULTS: A significant negative correlation was found between the bilateral middle frontal gyri, left inferior temporal gyrus, right orbitofrontal gyrus, and Neuropsychiatric Inventory scores. A negative correlation was found between bilateral middle temporal gyri, left hippocampus, bilateral fusiform gyri, and the Functional Activities Questionnaire. There was a positive correlation between the right amygdala, bilateral fusiform gyri, right anterior insula, left inferior and middle temporal gyri, right superior temporal gyrus, and Disability Assessment for Dementia scores. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that the neuropsychiatric symptoms observed in Alzheimer's disease patients could be mainly due to frontal structural abnormalities, whereas disability could be associated with reductions in temporal structures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8c/b9/cln-66-06-1045.PMC3129969.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3359590", "abstract": "Research on person categorization suggests that people automatically and inflexibly categorize others according to group memberships, such as race. Consistent with this view, research using electroencephalography (EEG) has found that White participants tend to show an early difference in processing Black versus White faces. Yet, new research has shown that these ostensibly automatic biases may not be as inevitable as once thought and that motivational influences may be able to eliminate these biases. It is unclear, however, whether motivational influences shape the initial biases or whether these biases can only be modulated by later, controlled processes. Using EEG to examine the time course of biased processing, we manipulated approach and avoidance motivational states by having participants pull or push a joystick, respectively, while viewing White or Black faces. Consistent with previous work on own-race bias, we observed a greater P100 response to White than Black faces; however, this racial bias was attenuated in the approach condition. These data suggest that rapid social perception may be flexible and can be modulated by motivational states.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/ef/fnhum-06-00140.PMC3359590.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3312079", "abstract": "A link between metabolism and brain function is clear. Since ancient times, epileptic seizures were noted as treatable with fasting, and historical observations of the therapeutic benefits of fasting on epilepsy were confirmed nearly 100 years ago. Shortly thereafter a high fat, low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet (KD) debuted as a therapy to reduce seizures. This strict regimen could mimic the metabolic effects of fasting while allowing adequate caloric intake for ongoing energy demands. Today, KD therapy, which forces predominantly ketone-based rather than glucose-based metabolism, is now well-established as highly successful in reducing seizures. Cellular metabolic dysfunction in the nervous system has been recognized as existing side-by-side with nervous system disorders – although often with much less obvious cause-and-effect as the relationship between fasting and seizures. Rekindled interest in metabolic and dietary therapies for brain disorders complements new insight into their mechanisms and broader implications. Here we describe the emerging relationship between a KD and adenosine as a way to reset brain metabolism and neuronal activity and disrupt a cycle of dysfunction. We also provide an overview of the effects of a KD on cognition and recent data on the effects of a KD on pain, and explore the relative time course quantified among hallmark metabolic changes, altered neuron function and altered animal behavior assessed after diet administration. We predict continued applications of metabolic therapies in treating dysfunction including and beyond the nervous system.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ca/88/fnins-06-00033.PMC3312079.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3166801", "abstract": "Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder of the small bowel that occurs in genetically predisposed people of all ages, from middle infancy, and is caused by a reaction to gliadin, a gluten protein. Some patients are diagnosed with symptoms related to the decreased absorption of nutrients or with various symptoms which, although statistically linked, have no clear relationship with the malfunctioning bowel. Classic symptoms of CD include diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue; bowel symptoms may be limited or even absent. In this article we describe the case of a young woman with CD who presents with myointimal proliferation. However multiple cases of vessel thrombosis have been reported in patients with CD. Despite the fact that no definitive relationship between these diseases could be explained, we think this association must be remembered especially in cases of young and tenuous women with these vascular abnormalities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cb/43/crg0002-0398.PMC3166801.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5419182", "abstract": "Several infectious agents appear to provide a proliferative signal – “antigen-drive” – that could be implicated in the pathogenesis of various type of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). A classical model of the infection-driven lymphoproliferative disorder is Helicobacter pylori-induced gastric MALT lymphoma, where antibiotic therapy allows the eradication of both the infectious agent and the clonal B-cell expansion. Following the footsteps of this example, several retrospective studies have found a correlation with other pathogens and B-cell Lymphomas, adding new relevant information about pathogenesis and laying the groundwork for chemotherapy-free treatments. Although no clear association has been found between infectious agents and Follicular Lymphoma (FL), a growing number of biological and clinical observations suggests the interaction of physiological and pathological microbial populations also in this subtype of lymphoma. In the last few years, epidemiological studies investigating the association of known risk factors and FL found a potential correlation with viral or bacterial infections; moreover, recent findings of the stimulation of FL clones support the importance of microbial exposure to lymphomagenesis and disease progression. In the following review we make an attempt to find tangible evidence for a role of either physiological and pathological exogenous microbial species in the pathogenesis of FL, and try to integrate the findings coming from epidemiological, biological and interventional studies to define future novel treatment and prevention strategies for FL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/88/45/mjhid-9-1-e2017035.PMC5419182.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3402257", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To assess the glucagon response to hypoglycemia and identify influencing factors in patients with type 1 diabetes compared with nondiabetic control subjects. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemic clamp studies were performed in all participants. The glucagon response to both hypoglycemia and arginine was measured, as well as epinephrine, cortisol, and growth hormone responses to hypoglycemia. Residual β-cell function was assessed using fasting and stimulated C-peptide. RESULTS Twenty-eight nonobese adolescents with type 1 diabetes (14 female, mean age 14.9 years [range 11.2–19.8]) and 12 healthy control subjects (6 female, 15.3 years [12.8–18.7]) participated in the study. Median duration of type 1 diabetes was 0.66 years (range 0.01–9.9). The glucagon peak to arginine stimulation was similar between groups (P = 0.27). In contrast, the glucagon peak to hypoglycemia was reduced in the group with diabetes (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/b8/1757.PMC3402257.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4526606", "abstract": "Introduction Prostate cancer is a large clinical burden across Europe. It is, in fact, the most common cancer in males, accounting for more than 92,300 deaths annually throughout the continent. Prostate cancer is androgen-sensitive; thus an androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is often used for treatment by reducing androgen to castrate levels. Several ADT agents have achieved benefits with effective palliation, but, unfortunately, severe adverse events are frequent. Contemporary ADT (Luteinising Hormone Releasing Hormone agonist - LHRHa injections) can result in side effects that include osteoporosis and fractures, compromising quality of life and survival. Methods In this review we analysed the associated bone toxicity consequent upon contemporary ADT and based on the literature and our own experience we present future perspectives that seek to mitigate this associated toxicity both by development of novel therapies and by better identification and prediction of fracture risk. Results Preliminary results indicate that parenteral oestrogen can mitigate associated osteoporotic risk and that CT scans could provide a more accurate indicator of overall bone quality and hence fracture risk. Conclusions As healthcare costs increase globally, cheap and effective alternatives that achieve ADT, but mitigate or avoid such bone toxicities, will be needed. More so, innovative techniques to improve both the measurement and the extent of this toxicity, by assessing bone health and prediction of fracture risk, are also required.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4d/45/CEJU-68-00513.PMC4526606.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3664368", "abstract": "Introduction In 2001, a Cochrane review of mammography screening questioned whether screening reduces breast cancer mortality, and a more comprehensive review in Lancet, also in 2001, reported considerable overdiagnosis and overtreatment. This led to a heated debate and a recent review of the evidence by UK experts intended to be independent. Objective To explore if general medical and specialty journals differed in accepting the results and methods of three Cochrane reviews on mammography screening. Methods We identified articles citing the Lancet review from 2001 or updated versions of the Cochrane review (last search 20 April 2012). We explored which results were quoted, whether the methods and results were accepted (explicit agreement or quoted without caveats), differences between general and specialty journals, and change over time. Results We included 171 articles. The results for overdiagnosis were not quoted in 87", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/da/ebmed-2012-101216.PMC3664368.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3263714", "abstract": "Freeze-drying a biodegradable polymer, poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA), from 1,4-dioxane solutions provided very porous spherical particles of ca. 3 mm in radius with specific surface area of 8–13 m2 g−1. The surface of the particle was found to be less porous compared with its interior. To apply the freeze-dried PLLA (FDPLLA) to drug delivery system, its morphology and drug releasing kinetics were investigated, bovine serum albumin (BSA) being used as a model drug compound. Immersion of FDPLLA into a BSA aqueous solution gave BSA-loaded FDPLLA, where mass fraction of the adsorbed BSA reached up to 79", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/b1/PMC3263714.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3236474", "abstract": " Background. An in vitro basophil activation test, based on the detection of CD63 upregulation induced by NSAIDs, has been described. Its clinical significance remains controversial. Objectives. In patients with a history of nonallergic NSAID hypersensitivity, stratified according to the severity of the symptoms, to assess with NSAIDs the predictive value of basophil (BAT) and monocyte (MAT) activation tests. Patients/Methods. Sixty patients who had NSAIDs-induced or exacerbated urticaria/angiooedema and 20 controls was included. After incubation with NSAIDs or acetaminophen, leukocytes were analysed for CD63 upregulation. Results. With aspirin, the sensitivity (37", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ea/b4/PMC3236474.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4897302", "abstract": "Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a progressive disease with loss of ambulation at around 9-10 years of age, followed, if untreated, by development of scoliosis, respiratory insufficiency, and death in the second decade of life. This review highlights the natural history of the disease, in particular, with regard to the development of the spinal deformity and how this complication has been modified by surgical interventions and overall by corticosteroid treatment. The beneficial effect of corticosteroids may have also an impact on the clinical trial design of the new emerging causative therapies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d2/a6/PMC4897302.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3881874", "abstract": "Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of auxiliary chemical substances and natural extracts on Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis inoculated in root canals. Material and Methods: Seventy-two human tooth roots were contaminated with C. albicans and E. faecalis for 21 days. The groups were divided according to the auxiliary chemical substance into: G1) 2.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ba/75/jaos-21-02-0118.PMC3881874.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4316834", "abstract": "Background Inadequate handover in emergency care is a threat to patient safety. Handover across care boundaries poses particular problems due to different professional, organisational and cultural backgrounds. While there have been many suggestions for standardisation of handover content, relatively little is known about the verbal behaviours that shape handover conversations. This paper explores both what is communicated (content) and how this is communicated (verbal behaviours) during different types of handover conversations across care boundaries in emergency care. Methods Three types of interorganisational (ambulance service to emergency department (ED) in ‘resuscitation’ and ‘majors’ areas) and interdepartmental handover conversations (referrals to acute medicine) were audio recorded in three National Health Service EDs. Handover conversations were segmented into utterances. Frequency counts for content and language forms were derived for each type of handover using Discourse Analysis. Verbal behaviours were identified using Conversation Analysis. Results 203 handover conversations were analysed. Handover conversations involving ambulance services were predominantly descriptive (60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/53/emermed-2013-202977.PMC4316834.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3981204", "abstract": "Systemic dehydration and diffuse central nervous system signs without any other illness is referred to as dehydration encephalopathy (DE). However, the incidence of DE at emergency units remains uncertain. We investigated the incidence of DE among persons with disturbed consciousness who visited the emergency unit. We reviewed the medical case records of the emergency unit at our university hospital during a 6-month period. Among them, 132 patients presented with disturbed consciousness as the sole initial manifestation on arrival. They were 75 men, 47 women; mean age 68 years (16–95 years). After carefully excluding other etiologies, the incidence of DE was 2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/35/PMC3981204.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3913432", "abstract": "Filarial involvement of breast is a rare entity. Here is an unusual case of an old lady with right breast lump with axillary lymphadenopathy mimicking breast carcinoma, cytologically diagnosed as filarial mastitis. The patient subsequently received antihelmenthic therapy and showed marked clinical response within few weeks.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/0f/rjt128.PMC3913432.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3047950", "abstract": "Objective: To improve the compensation for fat atrophy and making the face look young and improve the mental and emotional conditions of patients. Material and methods: Our study was done from April 2003 to March 2006 with an assessment and documentation of the degree of facial lipoatrophy. Results: We have very good results in 91", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/84/PMC3047950.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3657412", "abstract": " Tetrahymena thermophila are free-living, ciliated eukaryotes. Their behavioral response to stimuli is well characterized and easily observable, since cells swim toward chemoattractants and avoid chemorepellents. Chemoattractant responses involve increased swim speed or a decreased change in swim direction, while chemorepellent signaling involves ciliary reversal, which causes the organism to jerk back and forth, swim in small circles, or spin in an attempt to get away from the repellent. Many food sources, such as proteins, are chemoattractants for these organisms, while a variety of compounds are repellents. Repellents in nature are thought to come from the secretions of predators or from ruptured organisms, which may serve as “danger” signals. Interestingly, several peptides involved in vertebrate pain signaling are chemorepellents in Tetrahymena, including substances P, ACTH, PACAP, VIP, and nociceptin. Here, we characterize the response of Tetrahymena thermophila to three different isoforms of nociceptin. We find that G-protein inhibitors and tyrosine kinase inhibitors do not affect nociceptin avoidance. However, the calcium chelator, EGTA, and the SERCA calcium ATPase inhibitor, thapsigargin, both inhibit nociceptin avoidance, implicating calcium in avoidance. This result is confirmed by electrophysiology studies which show that 50 μM nociceptin-NH2 causes a sustained depolarization of approximately 40 mV, which is eliminated by the addition of extracellular EGTA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/50/b8/PMC3657412.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3981251", "abstract": "In the present case we report about an encephalomeningocele in an adult female. Since the cause of this medical entity is a congenital fusion defect of the neural tube of the cranial base, most of the encephaloceles occurs in children leading to facial disfigurement. In the rare cases described in adults, rhinorrhea is usually present. Here we present a case of temporobasal encephalomeningocele in a 72-year-old female patient suffering from headaches in the last 4–5 years. No rhinorrhea or other significant neurological symptoms were noticed. No congenital cause was apparent. After diagnostic steps including brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cranial computed tomography (CT) and MR cisternography, an encephalomeningocele was diagnosed. Through a pterional approach this was completely removed. The only symptom the patient complaint about, headache, was eliminated after surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e0/5f/PMC3981251.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2809415", "abstract": "The aim of the present study was to compare the ability of eight Staphylococcus epidermidis strains to adhere to acrylic and silicone, two polymers normally used in medical devices manufacture. Furthermore, it was tried to correlate that with the surface properties of substrata and cells. Therefore, hydrophobicity and surface tension components were calculated through contact angle measurements. Surface roughness of substrata was also assessed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). No relationship was found between microbial surface hydrophobicity and adhesion capability. Nevertheless, Staphylococcus epidermidis IE214 showed very unique adhesion behaviour, with cells highly aggregated between them, which is a consequence of their specific surface features. All strains, determined as being hydrophilic, adhered at a higher extent to silicone than to acrylic, most likely due to its more hydrophobic character and higher roughness. This demonstrates the importance of biomaterial surface characteristics for bacterial adhesion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/60/ed/PMC2809415.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3400752", "abstract": "In recent years, various forms of career guidance and career counseling have become more prominent and better serviced in most universities throughout the world. Such services are obviously to the benefit of the students themselves and for society. After an initially slow start, researchers and practitioners in China have now begun to focus on the localization of guidance and counselling theory and strategies in order to match more exactly actual employment situations in different regions of the country. This should result in a service that meets students' needs more effectively. Using mainly core literature examining the context of career guidance and counseling in China from 2001 to the present, this paper elaborates on the current situation and summarizes the progress that has been made. The authors detail the content, implementation, problems that exist, and ways of improving projects of this kind in Chinese universities. Conclusions and suggestions for further research on career guidance and counseling are provided.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/27/ad/PMC3400752.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5228645", "abstract": "Abstract Rationale: Nephropathy with concurrent invasive thymoma is a type of paraneoplastic syndrome. Patient concerns and Diagnoses: We report a 32-year-old female with nephrotic syndrome that was first diagnosed along with invasive thymoma and treated by means of cisplatin-based chemotherapy for the thymoma. The patient initially presented with dyspnea and generalized edema. Chest radiography and computed tomography scans revealed right pleural effusion and a mass in the right middle lung field, which were confirmed by a percutaneous lung biopsy as metastatic invasive thymoma. Severe hypoalbuminemia, heavy proteinuria, hyponatremia, and hypercholesterolemia were features of the nephrotic syndrome. A kidney needle biopsy suggested focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Interventions and Outcomes: All of the symptoms of nephrotic syndrome were resolved simultaneously during the first 2 cycles of chemotherapy. The patient was on regular follow-up with no specific treatment for nephrotic syndrome and underwent successful resection of the left pleura and anterior thymoma. The patient has shown no evidence of recurrence for 2 years. Lessons: We conclude that chemotherapy for invasive thymoma is an effective treatment for nephrotic syndrome accompanying the thymoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/f5/medi-96-e5408.PMC5228645.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3531946", "abstract": "Purpose Leber's miliary aneurysm is a variant of Coats’ disease and similar to type 1 idiopathic macular telangiectasia. A recent report showed that an intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (IVB) was effective in an adult patient with type 1 idiopathic macular telangiectasia. We describe our experience with an adult patient with a macular edema caused by Leber's miliary aneurysm, which had not been resolved by prior retinal laser photocoagulation, who underwent IVB. Methods We investigated the ocular characteristics of the patient before and after a single administration of IVB. Results The macular edema had partially improved 1 month after IVB, but then it worsened. We performed laser photocoagulation to treat the aneurysms near the fovea. The macular edema improved, but there was no improvement in visual acuity. Conclusion In this patient, the effect of IVB was limited.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/c3/cop-0003-0392.PMC3531946.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4200358", "abstract": "Objective At present, gold-standard technique of cervical cord decompression is surgical decompression and fusion. But, many complications related cervical fusion have been reported. We adopted an extended anterior cervical foraminotomy (EACF) technique to decompress the anterolateral portion of cervical cord and report clinical results and effectiveness of this procedure. Methods Fifty-three patients were operated consecutively using EACF from 2008 to 2013. All of them were operated by a single surgeon via the unilateral approach. Twenty-two patients who exhibited radicular and/or myelopathic symptoms were enrolled in this study. All of them showed cervical cord compression in their preoperative magnetic resonance scan images. Results In surgical outcomes, 14 patients (64", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/04/1e/jkns-56-114.PMC4200358.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5111740", "abstract": "Background Metabolic syndrome components—waist circumference, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), triglycerides, systolic blood pressure and fasting glucose—are cross‐sectionally associated with depression and anxiety with differing strength. Few studies examine the relationships over time or whether antidepressants have independent effects. Methods Participants were from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA; N = 2,776; 18–65 years; 66", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/3f/DA-33-754.PMC5111740.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2660713", "abstract": "Data on nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease in sub-Saharan Africa are limited. During 2006–2008, we identified 3 HIV-infected patients in northern Tanzania who had invasive NTM; 2 were infected with “Mycobacterium sherrisii” and 1 with M. avium complex sequevar MAC-D. Invasive NTM disease is present in HIV-infected patients in sub-Saharan Africa.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/87/a5/PMC2660713.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3677610", "abstract": "A healthy diet is of particular concern throughout the life of women to avoid many chronic illnesses especially during their 30s to 50s. There are published data on dietary quality and its determinants among women, but there is a lack of similar data regarding women in Mauritius. This study aimed to investigate the association between age and dietary quality in relation to sociodemographic factors, physical activity level (PAL) and nutritional knowledge (NK). A survey-based study was conducted in 2012 among Indo-Mauritian women including 117 young (21.35 ± 1.98), 160 reaching middle age (34.02 ± 5.09) and 50 middle-aged (37.85 ± 8.32). Validated questionnaires were used to elicit information on the determinants. A food frequency table consisting of 18 food items was used to assess dietary quality. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine the association between various factors and dietary quality. The mean dietary score of middle-aged women (18.70 ± 2.67) was closer to recommended dietary guidelines compared to young women (17.22 ± 3.40), and women reaching middle age (17.55 ± 3.29). Educational level, PAL, NK, and age were main determinants of dietary quality among Indo-Mauritian women (P < 0.05). Younger women with low educational level, PAL, and NK are at risk of poor dietary quality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/67/8f/PMC3677610.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5346917", "abstract": "Cushing's syndrome is a rare endocrine disorder that comprises a large group of signs and symptoms resulting from chronic exposure to excess corticosteroids. Most cases of Cushing's syndrome are due to increased adrenocorticotropic hormone production from a pituitary adenoma, which is referred to as Cushing's disease. Most of the signs and symptoms are nonspecific and common in the general population, making a diagnosis often challenging. However, several dermatological manifestations, such as fragile skin, easy bruising, and reddish purple striae, are more discriminatory. Because uncontrolled Cushing's syndrome of any etiology is associated with substantial morbidity, including increased cardiovascular disease and mortality, it is important to make an early diagnosis. Unfortunately, median delays of 2 years to diagnosis have been reported. We report a case of a woman who had multiple dermatological findings, including facial plethora, easy bruising, violaceous striae, hirsutism, and acne, the latter 2 signs reflecting androgen excess. Of interest, our patient presented with a chief complaint of hair loss, a common complaint in the general population that occurs with a greater frequency in patients with Cushing's disease and is attributed to androgenetic alopecia, but it is rarely the presenting symptom.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ef/76/cde-0009-0045.PMC5346917.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3317177", "abstract": "Ovarian cancer is sensitive to chemotherapy with platinum compounds; however, the therapy success rate is significantly lowered by a high incidence of recurrence and by the acquisition of drug resistance. These negative outcomes mainly depend on altered apoptotic and drug resistance pathways, determining the need for the design of new therapeutic strategies to improve patient survival. This challenge has become even more critical because it has been recognized that hindering uncontrolled cell growth is not sufficient as the only curative approach. In fact, while current therapies are mostly conceived to impair survival of highly proliferating cells, several lines of research are now focusing on cancer-specific features to specifically target malignant cells with the aim of avoiding drug resistance and reducing adverse effects. Recently, great interest has been generated by the identification of metabolic reprogramming mechanisms occurring in cancer cells, such as the increase in glycolysis levels. In this light, pharmacologic manipulation of relevant pathways involved in cancer-specific metabolism and drug resistance could prove an effective approach to treat ovarian cancer patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/5c/PMC3317177.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4107820", "abstract": "Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is characterized by a t(15;17) which fuses the 17q retinoic acid alpha-receptor sequence to the 15q PML gene sequence. The resulting fusion product plays a role in the development and maintenance of APL, and is very rarely found in other acute myeloid leukemia (AML) subtypes. Rare complex APL genomic rearrangements have retinoic acid alpha-receptor sequence deletions. Here we report a retinoic acid alpha-receptor sequence deletion in a case of AML without differentiation. To our knowledge, this is the first example of a retinoic acid alpha-receptor sequence deletion in this AML subtype.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/eb/67/cro-0007-0407.PMC4107820.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3245059", "abstract": "The Death Domain (DD) superfamily, which is one of the largest classes of protein interaction modules, plays a pivotal role in apoptosis, inflammation, necrosis and immune cell signaling pathways. Because aberrant or inappropriate DD superfamily-mediated signaling events are associated with various human diseases, such as cancers, neurodegenerative diseases and immunological disorders, the studies in these fields are of great biological and clinical importance. To facilitate the understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which the DD superfamily is associated with biological and disease processes, we have developed the DD database (http://www.deathdomain.org), a manually curated database that aims to offer comprehensive information on protein–protein interactions (PPIs) of the DD superfamily. The DD database was created by manually curating 295 peer-reviewed studies that were published in the literature; the current version documents 175 PPI pairs among the 99 DD superfamily proteins. The DD database provides a detailed summary of the DD superfamily proteins and their PPI data. Users can find in-depth information that is specified in the literature on relevant analytical methods, experimental resources and domain structures. Our database provides a definitive and valuable tool that assists researchers in understanding the signaling network that is mediated by the DD superfamily.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/be/31/gkr1149.PMC3245059.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5406082", "abstract": "Abstract Background: Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a progressive disease, which mainly affects young adults and often necessitates total hip arthroplasty (THA), so early interventions are critical to successfully protect hip joint from THA. In this review, our purpose was to determine the effects of anticoagulants for preventing and treating the primary and secondary ONFH, respectively, before the collapse stage or before the pathology of necrosis. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science databases for relevant studies. Any observational or experimental studies that evaluated anticoagulants and ONFH were our goal of searching the electric databases. Results: Four studies including a total of 218 hips were identified in this review, 2 of them were prospective studies which performed by 1 group, 1 was a retrospective study, and the last was a prospective comparative study. Conclusions: Our findings supported that the anticoagulants could be used for primary ONFH. However, anticoagulants cannot play a protective role on secondary ONFH. Moreover, there were no serious adverse effects reported in the studies after anticoagulants treatment. Nevertheless, our present study with some limitations such as the limited sample size only provided limited quality of evidence; confirmation from further systematic review or meta-analysis with large-scale, well-designed randomized control trials is required.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/a7/medi-96-e6646.PMC5406082.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5126593", "abstract": "Introduction Xeroderma pigmentosum is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disease. This disease predisposes patients to early-onset skin cancers, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. Here, we report 3 pediatric cases, including 2 deaths. Observation The subjects included 2 boys and 1 girl with skin type VI. All subjects were from consanguineous marriages, and the average age was 7.6 years. The patients all had ulcerative budding tumor lesions in the cephalic region, and the mean disease duration was 18 months. In all 3 cases, the diagnosis of xeroderma pigmentosum was made before the poikilodermal appearance of sun-exposed areas and photophobia. Neurological-type mental retardation was noted in 1 case. Histology confirmed squamous cell carcinoma in all 3 cases. The evolutions were marked by the death of 2 children (cases 1 and 3). In one case, the outcome was favorable following cancer excision and subsequent chemotherapy with adjuvant radiotherapy. Conclusion Squamous cell carcinoma is a serious complication related to xeroderma pigmentosum in Sub-Saharan Africa. Prevention is based on the early diagnosis of xeroderma pigmentosum, black skin photoprotection, screening and early treatment of lesions, and genetic counseling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/de/cde-0008-0311.PMC5126593.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4281917", "abstract": "Lip canting is associated with facial asymmetry, and is one of the most challenging problems in surgical correction of facial deformities. The author corrected lip canting using bioabsorbable devices during orthognathic surgery. Soft tissue suspension procedures were performed on four patients with facial asymmetry. Lip lines improved for all patients. Over an observation period of five years, no complications were noted, nor did any late relapse develop. Furthermore, as time past, the effect of the Endotine suspension procedure increased probably due to induction of fibrosis on surrounding soft tissues.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/b7/mprs-36-178.PMC4281917.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2933915", "abstract": " Background. Perception remains that brachytherapy-based regimens are inappropriate for patients having increased risk of extracapsular extension (ECE). Methods. 321 consecutive intermediate and high-risk disease patients were treated between 1/92 and 2/97 by one author (M. Dattoli) and stratified by NCCN guidelines. 157 had intermediate-risk; 164 had high-risk disease. All were treated using the combination EBRT/brachytherapy ± hormones. Biochemical failure was defined using PSA >0.2 and nadir +2 at last followup. Nonfailing patients followup was median 10.5 years. Both biochemical data and original biopsy slides were independently rereviewed at an outside institution. Results. Overall actuarial freedom from biochemical progression at 16 years was 82", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/fb/PMC2933915.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3446003", "abstract": "Background HDR syndrome (hypoparathyroidism, sensorineural deafness and renal disease) is an autosomal dominant condition, defined by the triad hypoparathyroidism, renal dysplasia and hearing loss. Hirschsprung (HSCR) disease is a variable congenital absence of ganglion cells of the enteric nervous system resulting in degrees of functional bowel obstruction. Rarer chromosomal anomalies are reported in combination with Hirschsprung disease like DiGeorge syndrome, mosaic trisomy 8, XXY chromosomal constitution, partial duplication of chromosome 2q, tetrasomy 9p, and 20p deletion. Case Presentation Here, we describe an 8 year-old girl with HDR syndrome accompanied by Hirschsprung disease. Although the association of Hirschsprung disease with chromosomal anomalies has been reported, according to our knowledge, this is the first report of associated HSCR with HDR syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/ac/IJPD-20-123.PMC3446003.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3477577", "abstract": "Blends of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and lignin were prepared with three different lignin types by solution blending and solution casting. Among three types of lignin, one type was chosen and different blend concentrations were prepared and casted. The casted blend films were characterized chemically with fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermally with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The mechanical properties of the blends were measured using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). FTIR analysis shows an excellent interaction of PAN and lignin. The interaction of the lignins and PAN was confirmed by TGA analysis. The DMA results reveal that the lignin enhance the mechanical properties of PAN at room temperature and elevated temperatures. The blend structure and morphology were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM images show that excellent polymer blends were prepared. The results show that it is possible to develop a new precursor material with a blend of lignin and PAN. These studies show that the side product of paper and cellulosic bioethanol industries, namely, lignin can be used for new application areas.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8d/c4/PMC3477577.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3705743", "abstract": " Aims. The aim of this study is to compare our results of preoperative chemotherapy followed by pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) with those of surgery alone in patients with localized resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Methods. Outcome data for 112 patients of resectable PDAC who received preoperative chemoradiotherapy followed by PD (group I) between January 2004 and April 2010 were retrospectively analyzed and were compared with selected 120 patients who underwent PD alone (group II) in the same period. Results. Patients in group I had an incidence of locoregional recurrence of 17.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ac/db/PMC3705743.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2933468", "abstract": "Takayasu's arteritis (TA) is a nonspecific, chronic and stenotic panarteritis which usually involves the aorta and its major branches. Corticosteroid and immunosuppressants are recommended to manage the acute inflammatory phase, but their long term benefits are uncertain. Blood pressure (BP) control during the chronic phase of TA is essential to preserve renal function, which is associated with the patient's long-term prognosis and survival. Revascularization in organ damaging arterial stenosis with percutaneous angioplasty (PTA)/stenting or bypass surgery have been accepted as established treatment options in chronic complicated phase of TA. We present a case of a 31-year-old female patient with a two-day history of sudden onset oliguria and generalized edema whose acute oliguric renal failure was successfully reversed following PTA and stenting in a solitary functioning kidney with critical renal artery stenosis (RAS) caused by TA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/89/kcj-40-414.PMC2933468.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3382697", "abstract": "Malignant transformation of urachal adenoma is exceedingly rare, with intestinal metaplasia as the most common contributing mechanism. It is recommended that a urachal adenoma be regarded as a pre-malignant condition and be subject to endoscopic surveillance. A local en block excision of the tumor mass with urachalectomy and umbilectomy results in possible long-term survival. The median survival after platinum-based chemotherapy is limited for patients with extravesical disease. Here we report a case of synchronous urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and urachal adenoma that transformed into adenocarcinoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a9/02/kju-53-438.PMC3382697.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4437266", "abstract": "We aim to evaluate the impact of age and duration of symptoms on surgical outcome of the patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (CSR) who had been treated by single-level microscopic anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). We retrospectively evaluated 68 patients (48 female and 20 male) with a mean age of 41.2 ± 4.3 (ranged from 24 to 72 years old) in our Orthopedic Department, Imam Reza Hospital. They were followed up for 31.25 ± 4.1 months (ranged from 25 to 65 months). Pain and disability were assessed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI) questionnaires in preoperative and last follow-up visits. Functional outcome was eventually evaluated by Odom's criteria. Surgery could significantly improve pain and disability from preoperative 6.2 ± 1.4 and 22.2 ± 6.2 to 3.5 ± 2.0 and 8.7 ± 5.2 (1–21) at the last follow-up visit, respectively. Satisfactory outcomes were observed in 89.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/57/db/PMC4437266.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4974422", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Sigmoid volvulus in pregnancy is a very rare condition. Despite this, clinicians should have a high index of suspicion of this condition if they encounter a pregnant woman with symptoms suggestive of bowel obstruction. Incorrect diagnosis may be catastrophic, resulting in major complications, including fetal and maternal death.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/8a/CCR3-4-759.PMC4974422.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4025620", "abstract": "Objective We sought to determine the patency of normal arterial branches from the covered segments of an artery after stenting. Background Most intracranial aneurysms occur at arterial branching points (bifurcations, side-branches, or perforators). The post-stenting patency of normal arterial branches from the covered segments of the artery is important. We have previously developed a hybrid stent with micropores to prevent early parent artery occlusion by more early endothelialization, and mid- to long-term parent artery stenosis by control of intimal hyperplasia after aneurysm occlusion. Methods We created aneurysms in 10 rabbits by distal ligation and intraluminal incubation of elastase within an endovascularly trapped proximal segment of the common carotid artery. All animals were treated with hybrid stents having micropores. Four animals were observed for one month and three each for three and 12 months. The patency of the side-branches of the subclavian artery was evaluated angiographically and in some cases, histologically. Results Aneurysms were completely occluded at all time points other than 12 months. The subclavian artery and brachiocephalic artery were patent, without significant stenosis. All the side-branches of the subclavian artery detected on the preoperative angiogram remained patent at the final assessment. Conclusion The use of hybrid stents for aneurysm repair and side-branch patency seems to be effective, as per the long-term results obtained in an animal model.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/85/10.1177_0885328213498293.PMC4025620.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4385149", "abstract": "The Net Reclassification Improvement (NRI) has become a popular metric for evaluating improvement in disease prediction models through the past years. The concept is relatively straightforward but usage and interpretation has been different across studies. While no thresholds exist for evaluating the degree of improvement, many studies have relied solely on the significance of the NRI estimate. However, recent studies recommend that statistical testing with the NRI should be avoided. We propose using confidence ellipses around the estimated values of event and non-event NRIs which might provide the best measure of variability around the point estimates. Our developments are illustrated using practical examples from EPIC-Potsdam study.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/04/PMC4385149.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4534430", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the clinical features and biochemical recurrence (BCR) in prostate cancer (PCa) with high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN). Materials and Methods We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 893 patients who underwent a radical prostatectomy for PCa between 2011 and 2012 at Asan Medical Center; 752 of these patients who did not receive neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy and were followed up for more than 1 year were included. The cohort was divided into two groups-patients with and without HGPIN-and their characteristics were compared. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to analyze factors affecting BCR. Results In total, 652 study patients (86.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e7/0a/kju-56-565.PMC4534430.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3990149", "abstract": "Anemia is the most common hematologic disorder in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). In some cases, normochromic anemia results from the presence of chronic disease; however blood loss or malabsorption may lead to an iron deficiency anemia with hypochromic appearance. Other rare hematologic manifestations associated with UC include myelodysplastic syndromes and leukemia. Several investigators have suggested a clinical association between inflammatory bowel disease and myelodysplastic syndrome, which may they share an immune dysfunction and impairment of T-lymphocytes activities. UC is an inflammatory bowel disease of unknown etiology that mainly affects the mucosa of the colon. Immune mechanisms play an important role in UC, and immunogenetic factors have been implicated in the development of the disease. Aplastic anemia is a bone marrow stem cell disorder characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, leading to pancytopenia. Although aplastic anemia is frequently idiopathic, the immune-mediated suppression of hematopoiesis may be implicated in at least half of patients, since more than half of these patients achieve hematological remission in response to immunosuppressive therapy. We report here a rare case of UC associated with pancytopenia requiring a blood transfusion in which a bone marrow examination showed aplastic anemia. A common pathogenic link between UC and aplastic anemia is suggested in this patient on the basis of the shared immunologic impairment underlying both diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/90/mejdd-5-230.PMC3990149.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5406039", "abstract": "Abstract Objective: A meta-analysis was carried out to further evaluate the relationship between ALDH2 Glu487Lys polymorphism and esophageal cancer risk. Methods: A total number of 15 studies that included 3812 cases and 7376 controls were identified for our meta-analysis. Results: Our findings indicated that individuals with the combination of Glu/Lys and Lys/Lys genotype had an increased risk of getting esophageal cancer (GA + AA vs. GG: odds ratio [OR] 1.36, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/69/13/medi-96-e6111.PMC5406039.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC539960", "abstract": "The Stanford Microarray Database (SMD) (http://smd.stanford.edu) is a research tool for hundreds of Stanford researchers and their collaborators. In addition, SMD functions as a resource for the entire biological research community by providing unrestricted access to microarray data published by SMD users and by disseminating its source code. In addition to storing GenePix (Axon Instruments) and ScanAlyze output from spotted microarrays, SMD has recently added the ability to store, retrieve, display and analyze the complete raw data produced by several additional microarray platforms and image analysis software packages, so that we can also now accept data from Affymetrix GeneChips (MAS5/GCOS or dChip), Agilent Catalog or Custom arrays (using Agilent's Feature Extraction software) or data created by SpotReader (Niles Scientific). We have implemented software that allows us to accept MAGE-ML documents from array manufacturers and to submit MIAME-compliant data in MAGE-ML format directly to ArrayExpress and GEO, greatly increasing the ease with which data from SMD can be published adhering to accepted standards and also increasing the accessibility of published microarray data to the general public. We have introduced a new tool to facilitate data sharing among our users, so that datasets can be shared during, before or after the completion of data analysis. The latest version of the source code for the complete database package was released in November 2004 (http://smd.stanford.edu/download/), allowing researchers around the world to deploy their own installations of SMD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f0/f5/PMC539960.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4214133", "abstract": "Background: Hepatic damage due to chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1b infection varies widely. Objectives: We aimed to investigate whether estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) plays a role in liver fibrosis in patients infected with HCV genotype 1b. Patients and Methods: All the consecutive patients who received the same standard treatment protocol for HCV genotype 1b were subdivided into two subgroups according to their fibrosis scores as fibrotic stages < 2 in mild fibrosis group and fibrotic stages ≥ 2 in advanced fibrosis group, depending on the presence of septal fibrosis. ERα was stained in liver biopsy specimens. Demographics and clinical properties were compared between the groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to predict advanced fibrosis. Results: There were 66 patients in the mild fibrosis group and 24 in the advanced fibrosis group. Among the mild and advanced fibrosis groups, 65.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/f1/hepatmon-14-09-21885.PMC4214133.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3228296", "abstract": " Introduction. This empirical paper examines how the Housing Development Board (HDB) public housing neighborhood influences older urban Singaporeans' social interactions and ameliorates social isolation. Methods. Using 4,542 observations of noninstitutionalized urban adults aged 60 and above, ordered logistic regressions are run to determine the predictors of isolation while controlling for physical health and demographics. Results. 87", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/da/55/PMC3228296.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3023424", "abstract": "Failure of sulfa or sulfone prophylaxis is associated with mutations in Pneumocystis carinii gene coding for dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS). The DHPS genotype was analyzed in AIDS patients who had two separate episodes of P. carinii pneumonia. The results suggest that DHPS mutations can be selected de novo within patients by the pressure of a sulfa or sulfone drug.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7f/91/PMC3023424.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2606019", "abstract": "Resistin has been shown to cause insulin resistance and to impair glucose tolerance in rodents, but in humans its physiological role still remains elusive. The aim of this study was to examine whether resistin mRNA expression in human peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and its corresponding plasma levels are altered in type 2 diabetes. Resistin mRNA levels were easily detectable in human PBMC, and found to be higher in DM2 compared to healthy women (P = .05). Similarly, mononuclear mRNA levels of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 were all significantly higher in DM2 compared to control women (P < .001). The corresponding plasma resistin levels were slightly, but not significantly, increased in DM2 women (P = .051), and overall, they correlated significantly with BMI (r = 0.406, P = .010) and waist circumference (r = 0.516, P = .003), but not with fasting insulin levels or HOMA-IR. Resistin mRNA expression is increased in PBMC from DM2 women, together with increased expression of the inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, independent of obesity. These results suggest that resistin and cytokines might contribute to the low-grade inflammation and the increased atherogenic risk observed in these patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d2/a5/PMC2606019.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5313014", "abstract": "Abstract Rationale: Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) are rare slowly growing tumors with a high metastatic potential. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) with radiolabeled analogues has been developed as a new tool for the management of metastatic well-differentiated (grade 1 and 2) neuroendocrine tumors expressing somatostatin receptor (SSTR2). Chemotherapy is the mainstay in the management of grade 3 (G3) unresectable pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma (pNEC). To date, no study has evaluated the efficacy of PRRT in such tumors. Diagnoses and interventions: We describe a case of a progressive G3 pNEC with huge liver metastases successfully treated with PRRT (177Lu DOTATATE). Outcomes: Complete remission was obtained for 3 years. Indeed, the mitotic index was low (as G2 tumors) but with a very high Ki-67 index (45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/43/a0/medi-96-e6062.PMC5313014.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2946856", "abstract": "Facial rejuvenation is a significant process involved in restoring youthfulness. The introduction of less invasive procedures has increased acceptance of such procedures. Often a combination of different techniques allows individualized treatment with optimal outcomes. Furthermore, this leads to a natural look without a significant downtime. We report herein the use of such a combined approach in middle-aged women with particular emphasis on botulinum toxin type A, dermal fillers, and chemical peels.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/88/0c/PMC2946856.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4086336", "abstract": "Hemodynamic shear stress, the frictional force acting on vascular endothelial cells, is crucial for endothelial homeostasis under normal physiological conditions. When discussing blood flow effects on various forms of endothelial (dys)function, one considers two flow patterns: steady laminar flow and disturbed flow because endothelial cells respond differently to these flow types both in vivo and in vitro. Laminar flow which exerts steady laminar shear stress is atheroprotective while disturbed flow creates an atheroprone environment. Emerging evidence has provided new insights into the cellular mechanisms of flow-dependent regulation of vascular function that leads to cardiovascular events such as atherosclerosis, atherothrombosis, and myocardial infarction. In order to study effects of shear stress and different types of flow, various models have been used. In this review, we will summarize our current views on how disturbed flow-mediated signaling pathways are involved in the development of atherosclerosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fa/98/molcell-37-6-435.PMC4086336.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2212850", "abstract": "Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are specialized producers of type I interferons (IFNs) that respond to most viruses. Because of their antiviral activity and regulatory functions in innate and adaptive immunity, type I IFNs are important not only for antiviral resistance but also in other types of infections and in immune pathology. Here we discuss recent data that begin to reveal the unique molecular mechanisms underlying the remarkably rapid and efficient type I IFN production by pDCs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/41/11/20051395.PMC2212850.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4509868", "abstract": "Objectives To assess the value of conducting a glaucoma screening randomized controlled trial in the UK. Methods Decision model based economic evaluation and value of information analysis. Model derived from a previous health technology assessment. Model updated in terms of structure and parameter estimates with data from surveys, interviews with members of the public and health care providers and routine sources. Results On average, across a range of ages of initiating screening (40–60 years), glaucoma prevalence (1–5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/49/9a/10.1177_1355819613499748.PMC4509868.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3042675", "abstract": "Transglutaminases are ubiquitous enzymes which catalyze posttranslational modifications of proteins. Recently, transglutaminase-catalyzed post-translational modification of proteins has been shown to be involved in the molecular mechanisms responsible for human diseases. Transglutaminase activity has been hypothesized to be involved also in the pathogenetic mechanisms responsible for several human neurodegenerative diseases. Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, supranuclear palsy, Huntington's disease, and other polyglutamine diseases, are characterized in part by aberrant cerebral transglutaminase activity and by increased cross-linked proteins in affected brains. This paper focuses on the possible molecular mechanisms by which transglutaminase activity could be involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases, and on the possible therapeutic effects of selective transglutaminase inhibitors for the cure of patients with diseases characterized by aberrant transglutaminase activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8c/ba/PMC3042675.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4184608", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Abdominal cystic lymphangiomas are rare and occur secondary to congenital malformation of the lymphatics, mostly in the mesenterium. Acute or chronic volvulus of the small bowel may occur by traction of the lymphangioma. Therapy includes resection of the lymphangioma and of the small bowel involved.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/e6/ccr30002-0115.PMC4184608.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5402858", "abstract": "Human actinomycosis with involvement of the spine is a rare condition, with only a limited number of case reports published. To the best of our knowledge, no cases have been reported of epidural abscess causing destruction of the C2 body, bringing about a direct connection between spinal epidural and retropharyngeal abscesses. Here, we present such a case that occurred after acupuncture, and we review the relevant literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/da/b3/kjs-14-1-20.PMC5402858.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4215444", "abstract": "Detection of tumors of the ampulla of Vater, including ampullary adenoma, has been improved by routine screening endoscopic procedures and imaging modalities. Endoscopic resection by endoscopic papillectomy is rapidly replacing classic surgical resection and is a less invasive procedure. Endoscopic resection can have a role not only in the final histopathologic diagnosis but also as a definite therapeutic option. However, the indications for endoscopic resection are not fully established, and endoscopic procedures are not standardized. Significant complications, including severe pancreatitis, intractable bleeding and duodenal perforation, are rare but can occur, especially in less experienced hands. Severe pancreatitis is the most feared complication, but it can be prevented by pancreatic duct stent insertion in most cases. However, in some cases, pancreatic stenting can be challenging after resection. Incomplete resections are sometimes performed to avoid complications. Endoscopic surveillance is also important for identifying and managing remnant adenomatous tissue or recurrent lesions. Further technical development is needed to expand the indications for this procedure, minimize complications and ensure a high success rate.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/e5/gnl-08-598.PMC4215444.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4608877", "abstract": "A 61-year-old woman was admitted to hospital because of generalized edema and proteinuria. Her renal function deteriorated rapidly. Serum immunoglobulin and complement levels were within normal ranges. An autoantibody examination showed negative for antinuclear antibody and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody. Histologic examination of a renal biopsy specimen revealed that all of the glomeruli had severe crescent formations with no immune deposits. The patient was treated with steroid pulse therapy with cyclophosphamide followed by oral prednisolone. Fifteen days later, she experienced massive recurrent hematochezia. Angiography revealed an active contrast extravasation in a branch of the distal ileal artery. We selectively embolized with a permanent embolic agent. On the 45th hospital day, the patient suddenly lost consciousness. Brain computed tomography showed intracerebral hemorrhage. We report a case of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–negative pauci-immune glomerulonephritis with massive intestinal bleeding and cerebral hemorrhage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2c/dd/main.PMC4608877.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3283779", "abstract": "Background A ring implantation in the tricuspid annulus requires many interrupted mattress sutures for correction of tricuspid regurgitation (TR). In this study, tricuspid ring annuloplasty was performed by 2-0 polypropylene continuous suture instead of multiple interrupted 2-0 polyester mattress sutures, and the efficacy of the method was evaluated. Materials and Methods This study included 20 patients who underwent tricuspid ring annuloplasty by continuous suture between May 2009 and July 2010. Four of the patients had an isolated TR, and the rest had a left-sided cardiac lesion. The concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty was performed after the left-sided heart surgery was completed and a Duran flexible ring prosthesis was used. Results There was no perioperative mortality or conduction problem. More than a moderate degree of TR was improved to less than a mild degree after the procedure. After the ring annuloplasty, the right atrial volume decreased from 123.7±69.2 mL to 74.5±37.4 mL, and the mean right atrial pressure was lowered from 18.7±12.2 mmHg to 8.9±5.5 mmHg. Conclusion The continuous \"over and over\" suture may be a useful procedure for fixing the ring to the annulus and making an intentional annular placation in performing tricuspid ring annuloplasty.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e4/ac/kjtcs-45-19.PMC3283779.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4283542", "abstract": "The radial forearm free flap (RFFF) is a thin and pliable tissue with many advantages for tongue reconstruction. However, tongues reconstructed with RFFF occasionally need revision surgery because inadequate defect measurement at primary surgery can lead to bulkiness and limited movement of reconstructed tongue. In this case, the patient underwent partial glossectomy and RFFF reconstruction for treatment of tongue cancer five years prior. We could not make a lower denture for the patient, because the alveolo-lingual sulcus of tongue was almost lost. So we performed vestibuloplasty with a modified Kazanjian method on the lingual vestibule of the mandibular right posterior area, and defatting surgery to debulk the flap. After surgery, we observed that the color and texture of the revised tongue changed to become similar with adjacent tissue. The patient obtained a more functional and esthetic outcome. Accordingly, we present a case report with a review of relevant literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/66/mprs-36-298.PMC4283542.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5080151", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the center of mass during sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit activities in the timed up and go test between healthy subjects and patients with stroke. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty healthy participants and thirty patients with stroke volunteered for this study. Acceleration of the center of mass was measured using a wireless tri-axial accelerometer during sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit activities in the timed up and go test. Accelerometer data were analyzed using BTS G-studio software. [Results] The phase duration was significantly longer and the anterior-posterior, mediolateral, and vertical acceleration ranges were significantly lower during sit-to-stand for patients with stroke than for healthy controls. Further, phase duration and the mediolateral acceleration range during stand-to-sit differed significantly between healthy controls and subjects with stroke. [Conclusions] During training for the sit-to-stand activity, the focus should be all three balance dimensions, but during training for the stand-to-sit activity, the focus should be on improving mediolateral balance and asymmetrical foot positioning should be recommended.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/98/7c/jpts-28-2457.PMC5080151.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4389137", "abstract": "Macrolide antibiotics, erythromycin, clarithromycin and azithromycin are commonly prescribed for upper respiratory infection, and their use has recently been further linked to immunomodulatory effects. With the widespread and expanded use of macrolides, special attention should be paid to their potential adverse effects. We reported two cases of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients who developed hallucinations such as vivid images of worms after taking clarithromycin. Similar to previous case reports of clarithromycin neurotoxicity, the visual hallucination resolved upon cessation of clarithromycin. Furthermore, we discussed the pharmacokinetic properties and other toxicities of macrolide antibiotics in patients with chronic kidney disease and ESRD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/22/dd/sfu098.PMC4389137.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4307879", "abstract": "This is a case report of a 38-year-old woman with temporal lobe epilepsy and epileptic psychoses. The psychoses consisted of three rare symptoms that were “a distortion in the sense of time,” “what should be there disappears,” and “the next scene is supposed to be in a particular way.” There have been few reports that included these symptoms; therefore, we report the course of this patient in detail.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c7/ba/main.PMC4307879.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3371630", "abstract": "Pediatric sleep disordered breathing has emerged in the last few decades as a highly prevalent condition by virtue of its major morbidities encompassing the central nervous, cardiovascular, and metabolic systems. In this context, improved understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the cellular and organ injury and repair mechanisms, and the variance of the phenotype at any level of disease severity is all the more critical if appropriate personalized therapies are to be developed in the future. In this paper, the current evidence and hypothetical framework pointing to the endothelium as a primary cellular target for many of the morbidities of pediatric sleep apnea is reviewed, and particular emphasis on the recruitment of the endothelial cell lineage will be explored. It is hoped that this perspective will foster both expansion and acceleration of discovery efforts aiming to ultimately prevent the potentially lifelong consequences of sleep apnea during childhood.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f7/97/fneur-03-00092.PMC3371630.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3066771", "abstract": "Aim This study aimed to assess job satisfaction amongst Nigerian ophthalmologists. Methods The study was conducted during the annual congress of the Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria in September 2008. One hundred and ten ophthalmologists were selected by simple random sampling and asked to complete a structured questionnaire. Results The response rate was 73", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/fd/LJM-5-4629.PMC3066771.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2686758", "abstract": "The biological activity of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, CCN2) is regulated at the level of intracellular signaling leading to gene expression, and by its extracellular interaction partners which determine the functional outcome of CCN2 action. In this overview, we summarize the data which provide evidence that one of the major signaling pathways, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)–AKT signaling, shows a remarkable cell type-dependence in terms of regulation of CCN2 expression. In smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells, inhibition of this pathway either reduced CCN2 expression or was not involved in CCN2 gene expression depending on the stimulus used. In microvascular endothelial cells by contrast, activation of PI3K–AKT signaling was inversely related to CCN2 expression. Upregulation of CCN2 upon inhibition of PI3K–AKT was also observed in primary cultures of human endothelial cells (HUVEC) exposed to laminar flow in an in vitro flow-through system. In different types of endothelial cells, FoxO transcription factors, which are negatively regulated by AKT, were identified as potent activators of CCN2 gene expression. In HUVEC, we observed a correlation between enhanced nuclear localization of FoxO1 and increased synthesis of CCN2 protein in areas of non-uniform shear stress. These data indicate that FoxO proteins are key regulators of CCN2 gene expression which determine the effect of PI3K–AKT activation in terms of CCN2 regulation. Short summary Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)–AKT signaling shows a remarkable cell type-dependence in terms of regulation of CCN2 expression. In endothelial cells activation of PI3K - AKT signaling was inversely related to CCN2 expression. FoxO transcription factors, which are negatively regulated by AKT, were identified as potent activators of CCN2 gene expression. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s12079-009-0055-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1c/2d/PMC2686758.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3786503", "abstract": " Introduction. The aim of this study was to assess the complications resulting from third molar extraction under general anesthesia. Material and Methods. The retrospective study included all patients who underwent impacted third molars extraction from January 2008 until December 2011. 7659 third molars were extracted for 2112 patients. Postoperative complications were retrieved from medical files. Results. No complications were related to general anesthesia. The most frequent postoperative complication was infection (7.15", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/87/PMC3786503.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3201107", "abstract": "Introduction: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a serious and often fatal complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Because the diagnosis of PAH often is made years after symptom onset, early diagnostic strategies are essential. Doppler echocardiography currently is considered the noninvasive screening test of choice for evaluating pulmonary hypertension. Aim: Screening for asymptomatic pulmonary hypertension in systemic lupus erythematosus patients using Doppler echocardiography, and correlating it with inflammatory parameters of the disease. Patients and methods: Doppler echocardiography was performed in 74 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus over one year (66 adult and 8 juvenile), adult SLE included 57 patients with adult-onset and 9 patients with childhood-onset. Pulmonary hypertension was diagnosed if the peak systolic pressure gradient at the tricuspid valve was more than 30 mmHg. All patients were subjected to full history taking, rheumatological examination, laboratory studies and chest x-ray. Results: In seventy four SLE patients, the pulmonary hypertension was detected in 8 patients (10.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/aa/PMC3201107.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4477183", "abstract": "Rat endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) is a well-established model of human uveitis. In this model, intravitreal injection of resolvin D1 (RvD1, 10–100–1000 ng/kg) 1 hour after subcutaneous treatment of Sprague-Dawley rats with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 200 μg/rat) significantly prevented the development of uveitis into the eye. RvD1 dose-dependently increased the expression of sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) within the eye, while it decreased the expression of acetyl-p53 and acetyl-FOXO1. These effects were accompanied by local downregulation of some microRNAs related to the expression and activity of SIRT1. These were miR-195-5p, miR-200a-3p, miR-34a-5p, and miR-145-5p. An increase of manganese superoxide dismutase and decrease of caspase 3 were evident after RvD1 treatment. In another set of experiments, the protective effects of RvD1 (1000 ng/kg) were partly abolished by the pretreatment of the rats with EX527 (10 mg/kg/day, i.p.), a specific inhibitor of SIRT1 activity, for 7 days prior to the induction of EIU in rats. Similarly, the effects of RvD1 (1000 ng/kg) on the SIRT1 protein expression were abolished by Boc2, N-t-butoxycarbonyl-PLPLP, a specific formyl-peptide receptor type 2/lipoxin A receptor antagonist. Therefore, an interplay of the SIRT1 activity on the RvD1 mediated resolution of EIU is argued.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/82/PMC4477183.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3476880", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE Diabetes is associated with increased brachial and central blood pressure and aortic stiffness. We examined the effect of intensive multifactorial treatment in general practice on indices of peripheral and central hemodynamics among patients with screen-detected diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS As part of a population-based screening and intervention study in general practice, 1,533 Danes aged 40–69 years were clinically diagnosed with screen-detected diabetes. General practitioners were randomized to provide intensive multifactorial treatment or routine care. After a mean follow-up of 6.2 years, an unselected subsample of 456 patients underwent central hemodynamic assessments by applanation tonometry. Central pressure was derived from the radial pulse wave. Aortic stiffness was assessed as carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (aPWV). The intervention effect on each index of central hemodynamics was analyzed by mixed-effects models adjusted for heart rate, cluster randomization, age, and sex. RESULTS At screening, median age was 59.2 years (interquartile range 55.2–64.6); 289 patients (63", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c0/7b/2207.PMC3476880.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4345191", "abstract": "A 59-year-old female presented with progressive right proptosis, chemosis and ocular pain. An imaging work-up including conventional catheter angiography showed a right-sided dural arteriovenous fistula of the cavernous sinus, which drained into the right superior petrosal sinus, right superior ophthalmic vein, and right inferior ophthalmic vein, and cortical venous reflux was seen via the right petrosal vein in the right posterior fossa. After failure of transvenous embolization, the patient underwent Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS). At one month after GKRS, she developed increasing ocular pain and occipital headache. Repeat angiography showed partial obliteration of the fistula and loss of drainage via the superior and inferior ophthalmic veins with severe congestion, resulting in slow flow around the right cerebellar hemisphere. Prompt transarterial embolization relieved the patient's ocular symptoms and headache. We report on a case of paradoxical exacerbation of symptoms resulting from obstruction of the venous outflow after GKRS for treatment of a dural arteriovenous fistula of the cavernous sinus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ba/43/jkns-57-127.PMC4345191.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3430403", "abstract": "Objective The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of SX (combination of yohimbine and L-arginine) in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Methods This trial was a 4-week, double blind study of parallel groups of patients with mild to moderate ED. Forty married male patients with ED of mild-to-moderate severity were screened for the study entry;among them, those aged 25–50 who reported a minimum of a- 3-month history of ED were eligible to enroll in this study. The severity of ED was based on EF domain scores on the international index of erectile function (IIEF). The scores of 15–25 was considered as mild to moderate ED. Patients were randomized to receive one capsule of SX or placebo on demand in a 1:1 ratio using a computer-generated code. Results The difference between the two groups was significant at week 4 (endpoint) (P=0.03). Four adverse events were observed over the study. The difference between the SX and placebo was not significant in the frequency of adverse events. Conclusion This study indicates that SX is safe and effective for the treatment of mild to moderate ED at least in the short-term.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4d/8a/IJPS-5-1.PMC3430403.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5333756", "abstract": "Background Blood transfusion is an integral part of the supportive care for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) and thalassaemia. The hazard of red cell alloimmunization, however, is one of the main complications of this therapy. Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of red cell alloimmunization in Omani patients with sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia. Methods This study included 262 patients whose historical transfusion records were available. One hundred and twenty-nine patients with thalassaemia who were attending the day care unit for regular transfusions, and 133 SCD patients admitted at our hospital were included in this study. The Diamed® gel system was used for the screening and identification of atypical antibodies. Results The rate of alloimmunization in SCD patients was 31.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/43/mjhid-9-1-e2017013.PMC5333756.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3757365", "abstract": "SUMMARY A total of 755 highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)-naive HIV-infected patients were enrolled at a government hospital in Thailand from 1 June 2000 to 15 October 2002. Census date of survival was on 31 October 2004 or the date of HAART initiation. Of 700 (92·6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fd/af/S0950268812002397a.PMC3757365.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4746382", "abstract": "Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are compounds that can be quantified by fluorescence due to their high quantum yield. Haloalkalitolerant bacteria tolerate wide concentration ranges of NaCl and pH. They are potentially useful in the PAHs bioremediation of saline environments. However, it is known that salinity of the sample affects fluorescence signal regardless of the method. The objective of this work was to carry out a comparative study based on the sensitivity, linearity, and detection limits of the excitation, emission, and synchronous fluorescence methods, during the quantification of the residual anthracene concentration from the following haloalkalitolerant actinomycetes cultures Kocuria rosea, Kocuria palustris, Microbacterium testaceum, and 4 strains of Nocardia farcinica, in order to establish the proper fluorescence method to study the PAHs biodegrading capacity of haloalkalitolerant actinobacteria. The study demonstrated statistical differences among the strains and among the fluorescence methods regarding the anthracene residual concentration. The results showed that excitation and emission fluorescence methods performed very similarly but sensitivity in excitation fluorescence is slightly higher. Synchronous fluorescence using Δλ = 150 nm is not the most convenient method. Therefore we propose the excitation fluorescence as the fluorescence method to be used in the study of the PAHs biodegrading capacity of haloalkalitolerant actinomycetes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/64/49/PMC4746382.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5283071", "abstract": "Objectives The main objective was to investigate the applicability and effectiveness of quality improvement initiatives in decreasing the rate of avoidable 30-day, skilled nursing facility (SNF)-to-hospital readmissions. Problem The rate of rehospitalizations from SNF within 30 days of original discharge has increased within the last decade. Setting The research team participants conducted a literature review via Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature and PubMed to collect data about quality improvement implemented in SNFs. Results The most common facilitator was the incorporation of specialized staff. The most cited barriers were quality improvement tracking and implementation. Conclusion These strategy examples can be useful to acute care hospitals attempting to lower bounce back from subacute care providers and long-term care facilities seeking quality improvement initiatives to reduce hospital readmissions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5d/f0/cia-12-213.PMC5283071.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4664433", "abstract": "Current guidelines for the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) recommend limiting the use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) to patients with more severe disease and/or increased exacerbation risk. However, there are discrepancies between guidelines and real-life practice, as ICS are being overprescribed. In light of the increasing concerns about the clinical benefit and long-term risks associated with ICS use, therapy needs to be carefully weighed on a case-by-case basis, including in patients already on ICS. Several studies sought out to determine the effects of withdrawing ICS in patients with COPD. Early studies have deterred clinicians from reducing ICS in patients with COPD as they reported that an abrupt withdrawal of ICS precipitates exacerbations, and results in a deterioration in lung function and symptoms. However, these studies were fraught with numerous methodological limitations. Recently, two randomized controlled trials and a real-life prospective study revealed that ICS can be safely withdrawn in certain patients. Of these, the WISDOM (Withdrawal of Inhaled Steroids During Optimized Bronchodilator Management) trial was the largest and first to examine stepwise withdrawal of ICS in patients with COPD receiving maintenance therapy of long-acting bronchodilators (ie, tiotropium and salmeterol). Even with therapy being in line with the current guidelines, the findings of the WISDOM trial indicate that not all patients benefit from including ICS in their treatment regimen. Indeed, only certain COPD phenotypes seem to benefit from ICS therapy, and validated markers that predict ICS response are urgently warranted in clinical practice. Furthermore, we are now better equipped with a larger armamentarium of novel and more effective long-acting β2-agonist/long-acting muscarinic antagonist combinations that can be considered by clinicians to optimize bronchodilation and allow for safer ICS withdrawal. In addition to providing a review of the aforementioned, this perspective article proposes an algorithm for the stepwise withdrawal of ICS in real-life clinical practice. Video abstract", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/53/37/copd-10-2535.PMC4664433.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3460011", "abstract": "A 71-year-old man was referred for painless hematuria and a bladder tumor. Cystoscopy and computed tomography revealed a 3-cm oval nodular mass on the left lateral side of the bladder. The patient underwent a complete transurethral resection of the lesion and histology showed a proliferation of atypical spindle cells with inflammation consistent with a myofibroblastic tumor. After 4 and 7 months, follow-up cystoscopy demonstrated nodular mass lesions and transurethral resection of bladder tumor was done, which showed chronic cystitis and a recurred myofibroblastic tumor, respectively. Five months later, multiple lymph node, bone, and soft tissue metastases were found by positron emission tomography. The patient was treated first with palliative chemotherapy, including doxorubicin and cisplatin. After that, radiologic studies showed disease progression but the patient refused further treatment and died 6 months later.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/04/53/kju-53-657.PMC3460011.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3184761", "abstract": "Introduction: Esthetics and attractiveness of the smile is one of the major demands in contemporary orthodontic treatment. In order to improve a smile design, it is necessary to record “posed smile” as an intentional, non-pressure, static, natural and reproducible smile. The record then should be analyzed to determine its characteristics. In this study, we intended to design and introduce a software to analyze the smile rapidly and precisely in order to produce an attractive smile for the patients. Materials and Methods: For this purpose, a practical study was performed to design multimedia software “Smile Analysis” which can receive patients’ photographs and videographs. After giving records to the software, the operator should mark the points and lines which are displayed on the system’s guide and also define the correct scale for each image. Thirty-three variables are measured by the software and displayed on the report page. Reliability of measurements in both image and video was significantly high (α=0.7–1). Results: In order to evaluate intra- operator and inter-operator reliability, five cases were selected randomly. Statistical analysis showed that calculations performed in smile analysis software were both valid and highly reliable (for both video and photo). Conclusion: The results obtained from smile analysis could be used in diagnosis, treatment planning and evaluation of the treatment progress.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9b/e2/jod-7-170.PMC3184761.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4055498", "abstract": " Objective. To investigate the tolerability and impact on quality of life of liposomal nasal spray compared to guideline-recommended steroid-based therapy in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. Symptom reduction and use of antisymptomatic medication were also examined. Methods. In this monocenter, prospective, controlled, open, and noninterventional study, 60 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis were treated with liposomal nasal spray and 30 patients received steroid-based therapy. The study comprised five visits occurring at intervals of two to four weeks. Efficacy was determined according to the sinusitis symptom score documented daily. The polyp score was recorded at the initial and final visits. Tolerability was determined through the Nasal Spray Evaluation Questionnaire, and quality of life was ascertained with the SNOT-20 Score. Results. Both treatments achieved a significant reduction of sinusitis symptoms (P < 0.05) and also rhinoscopic improvement (P < 0.05). The majority of patients assessed the treatments as “good” or “very good,” and the quality of life improved significantly (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in symptom reduction, QoL, and endoscopic exams between both treatments. Conclusion. The treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with liposomal nasal spray results in a similar, significant reduction of symptoms and significant improvement in quality of life as guideline-recommended treatment and is therefore a comparable alternative.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/61/a0/PMC4055498.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4006513", "abstract": "Background Tailgut cyst (TGC) is a rare congenital lesion that originates from remnants of the embryonic post-anal gut. It presents as a multilocular presacral mass mainly in young women. Microscopically, the cyst lining is composed of different types of epithelium such as stratified squamous, transitional, or glandular. Case Presentation We present a term female newborn referred to our hospital for evaluation and management of imperforate anus. During dissection of the presacral space to release the rectum, a multicystic mass adherent to the distal part of rectum was detected and completely excised. Histopathology confirmed the TGC diagnosis. Conclusion TGC is a very rare lesion, but it should be considered in differential diagnosis of any presacral mass, even in infancy. Complete excision is the preferred treatment and can be done more easily neonatally or in infancy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b2/9e/IJPD-23-597.PMC4006513.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5177689", "abstract": "Bartter syndrome (BS) is an inherited renal tubular disorder characterized by low or normal blood pressure, hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis, and hyperreninemic hyperaldosteronism. Type III BS is caused by loss-of-function mutations in CLCNKB encoding basolateral ClC-Kb. The clinical phenotype of patients with CLCNKB mutations has been known to be highly variable, and cases that are difficult to categorize as type III BS or other hereditary tubulopathies, such as Gitelman syndrome, have been rarely reported. We report a case of a 10-year-old Korean boy with atypical clinical findings caused by a novel CLCNKB mutation. The boy showed intermittent muscle cramps with laboratory findings of hypokalemia, severe hypomagnesemia, and nephrocalcinosis. These findings were not fully compatible with those observed in cases of BS or Gitelman syndrome. The CLCNKB mutation analysis revealed a heterozygous c.139G>A transition in exon 13 [p.Gly(GGG)465Glu(GAG)]. This change is not a known mutation; however, the clinical findings and in silico prediction results indicated that it is the underlying cause of his presentation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/17/kjped-59-S103.PMC5177689.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3502847", "abstract": "This study evaluated the reach of depression screening followed by treatment programs for subsyndromal depression and explored demographic and clinical characteristics of patients who were reached versus those who were not. A two-item Patient Health Questionnaire-Depression was sent to 4196 type 2 diabetic patients. Positively screened patients were interviewed to assess the severity of depression, and those with subclinical symptoms were invited to treatment groups. The reach of screening procedure was evaluated by the total response rate, proportion of positive depression screenings, and proportion of eligible patients entering treatment programs. Predictors of responsiveness to screening and of participation in treatment were determined using logistic regression. Of the 34", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/34/52/PMC3502847.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4468288", "abstract": "Retinal degenerative diseases are one of the important refractory ophthalmic diseases, featured with apoptosis of photoreceptor cells. Histone acetylation and deacetylation can regulate chromosome assembly, gene transcription, and posttranslational modification, which are regulated by histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs), respectively. The histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) have the ability to cause hyperacetylation of histone and nonhistone proteins, resulting in a variety of effects on cell proliferation, differentiation, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis. Several HDACis have been approved for clinical trials to treat cancer. Studies have shown that HDACis have neuroprotective effects in nervous system damage. In this paper, we will summarize the neuroprotective effects of common HDACis in retinal degenerative diseases and make a prospect to the applications of HDACis in the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases in the future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a8/2c/PMC4468288.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3316958", "abstract": " Objective. To investigate the incidence of various antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs), measured by commercial-based laboratory, with recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) patients and the impact of the species, isotype, titer, and number of positive aPLs on reproductive outcome in Japanese. Method. In this retrospective cohort study, 263 patients with RSA without possible causes were investigated. Of 131 patients with one or more positive aPL, 82 pregnant women under anticoagulant therapy were evaluated. Results. The incidence of various aPLs was almost consistent with previous report. Overall, successful pregnancy rate with anticoagulant therapy was 91.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a8/ba/PMC3316958.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2686235", "abstract": "Methamphetamine (METH) is a psychostimulant drug of abuse that produces long-term behavioral changes including behavioral sensitization, tolerance, and dependence. METH has been reported to induce neurotoxic effects in several areas of the brain via the dopaminergic system. Changes of dopamine function can induce malfunction of the glutamatergic system. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the effects of METH administration on the expression of glutamate N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit 1 (NMDAR1) in frontal cortex, striatum, and hippocampal formation after acute and subacute exposure to METH by western blotting.  Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected intraperitoneally with a single dose of 8 mg/kg METH, 4 mg/kg/day METH for 14 days and saline in acute, subacute, and control groups, respectively. A significant increase in NMDAR1 immunoreactive protein was found in frontal cortex in the subacute group (P = .036) but not in the acute group (P = .580). Moreover, a significant increase in NMDAR1 was also observed in striatum in both acute (P = .025) and subacute groups (P = .023). However, no significant differences in NMDAR1 in hippocampal formation were observed in either acute or subacute group. The results suggest that an upregulation of NMDA receptor expression may be a consequence of glutamatergic dysfunction induced by METH.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/13/af/PMC2686235.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3695315", "abstract": "The arrival of targeted therapies has presented both a conceptual and a practical challenge in the treatment of patients with advanced non-small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLCs). The relationship of these treatments with specific histologies and predictive biomarkers has made the handling of biopsies the key factor for success. In this study, we highlight the balance between precise histological diagnosis and the practice of conducting multiple predictive assays simultaneously. This can only be achieved where there is a commitment to multidisciplinary working by the tumor board to ensure that a sensible protocol is applied. This proposal for prioritizing samples includes both recent technological advances and the some of the latest discoveries in the molecular classification of NSCLCs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/24/62/PMC3695315.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3342362", "abstract": "Monocytes that migrate into tissues during inflammatory episodes and differentiate to macrophages were previously classified as classically (M1) or alternatively (M2) activated macrophages, based on their exposure to different fate-determining mediators. These macrophage subsets display distinct molecular markers and differential functions. At the same time, studies from recent years found that the encounter of apoptotic leukocytes with macrophages leads to the clearance of this cellular “debris” by the macrophages, while concomitantly reprogramming/immune-silencing the macrophages. While some of the features of M2 differentiation, such as arginase-1 (murine) and 15-lipoxygenases (human and murine) expression, were also displayed by macrophages following the engulfment of apoptotic cells, it was not clear whether apoptotic cells can be regarded as an M2-like differentiating signal. In this manuscript we review the recent information regarding the impact of apoptotic cells on macrophage phenotype changes in molecular terms. We will focus on recent evidence for the in vivo existence of distinct pro-resolving macrophages and the role of apoptotic cells, specialized lipid mediators, and glucocorticoids in their generation. Consequently, we will suggest that these pro-resolving CD11blow macrophages have metamorphed from M2-like macrophages, and modulated their protein profile to accommodate the changes in their function.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/2b/fimmu-03-00004.PMC3342362.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5076619", "abstract": "The effect of acute handling stress on haematological profile, blood glucose and lactate (secondary stress markers) in cultured sea bream Sparus aurata was evaluated. Sixty six Sparus aurata were used and equally divided into two groups (A and B). Group A was not subjected to stress, Group B was subjected to acute handling stress. From each fish, biometric data and blood samples were collected to evaluate haematological profile, blood glucose and lactate. Unpaired t-test Student was applied to evaluate possible differences in parameters between the two groups. Red blood cells, haematocrit, haemoglobin, white blood cells (WBC), glucose and lactate showed an increase (P<0.05) in Group B compared with Group A, while mean corpuscular volume decreased (P<0.05) in Group B. The results highlight the role of studied parameters in monitoring the stressful conditions of aquaculture production which affect animal welfare and fish products quality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/f7/ijfs-2015-1-4174.PMC5076619.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2529392", "abstract": "Many clinical studies focus on the effects of acupuncture on digestive disorders. However, few studies describe the mechanism by which these effects are produced. We present some recent experimental work on the mechanism of acupuncture for reflex regulation of gastroduodenal function in anesthetized rats. In anesthetized rats, it has been proven that acupuncture to the abdomen excites sympathetic nerves via spinal reflexes causing inhibition of motilities while acupuncture of limbs excites vagus nerves via supraspinal reflexes causing an increase in the motilities. It has also been shown that in order to inhibit gastric motilities, acupuncture stimulation of the abdomen must be strong enough to excite group VI fibers of the afferent intercostal nerves. To increase gastric motilities, acupuncture stimulation to hind limbs must be strong enough to excite the high-threshold group III fibers of tibial nerves. It has also been shown that the neural mechanism of duodenal motility stimulation by acupuncture involves the same body regions and intensity of stimulation as that of gastric motilities. Theories regarding the underlying mechanism have proposed somato-autonomic reflexes and responses via endogenous opioids, etc., but without definitive conclusions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/8e/nem077.PMC2529392.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2854378", "abstract": "Philip Siekevitz, an Emeritus Professor at the Rockefeller University who madepioneering contributions to the development of modern cell biology, passed awayon December 5th, 2009. He was a creative and enthusiastic scientist, as well asa great experimentalist who throughout his lifetime transmitted the joy ofpracticing science and the happiness that comes with the acquisition of newknowledge. He was a man of great integrity, with a thoroughly engagingpersonality and a humility not often found in people of his talent.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/47/07/PMC2854378.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1395508", "abstract": "Abstract Purpose In the transformation of health care systems, the introduction of integrated service networks is considered to be one of the main solutions for enhancing efficiency. In the last few years, a wealth of literature has emerged on the topic of services integration. However, the question of how integrated service networks should be modelled to suit different implementation contexts has barely been touched. To fill that gap, this article presents four models for the organization of mental health integrated networks. Data sources The proposed models are drawn from three recently published studies on mental health integrated services in the province of Quebec (Canada) with the author as principal investigator. Description Following an explanation of the concept of integrated service network and a description of the Quebec context for mental health networks, the models, applicable in all settings: rural, urban or semi-urban, and metropolitan, and summarized in four figures, are presented. Discussion and conclusion To apply the models successfully, the necessity of rallying all the actors of a system, from the strategic, tactical and operational levels, according to the type of integration involved: functional/administrative, clinical and physician-system is highlighted. The importance of formalizing activities among organizations and actors in a network and reinforcing the governing mechanisms at the local level is also underlined. Finally, a number of integration strategies and key conditions of success to operationalize integrated service networks are suggested.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/03/a6/PMC1395508.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4231999", "abstract": "Objectives Antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy is recommended to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and for maternal care management. Physiological changes during pregnancy can affect pharmacokinetics, potentially altering pharmacological activity. We therefore evaluated the pharmacokinetics of twice-daily (bid) darunavir in HIV-1-infected pregnant women. Methods HIV-1-infected pregnant women receiving an antiretroviral regimen containing darunavir/ritonavir 600/100 mg bid were enrolled in this study. Total and unbound darunavir and total ritonavir plasma concentrations were obtained over 12 h during the second and third trimesters and postpartum. Total darunavir and ritonavir plasma concentrations were determined using a validated high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry assay and unbound darunavir was determined using 14C-darunavir-fortified plasma. Pharmacokinetic parameters were derived using noncompartmental analysis. Results Data were available for 14 women. The area under the plasma concentration–time curve from 0 to 12 h (AUC12h) for total darunavir was 17–24", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/6d/hiv0015-0050.PMC4231999.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3845604", "abstract": "Deregulation of the phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway occurs frequently in a wide range of human cancers and is a major driving force in tumorigenesis. Thus, small molecules targeting this pathway are under active development as anticancer therapeutics. Although small-molecule inhibitors of the PI3K-mTOR pathway have shown promising clinical efficacy against human cancers, the emergence of drug resistance may limit their success in the clinic. To date, several resistance mechanisms, including both PI3K-dependent and -independent mechanisms, have been described. Here, we summarize the current understanding of resistance mechanisms to PI3K-mTOR inhibitors and discuss potential strategies for overcoming resistance for potential clinical application.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cc/1e/cjc-32-07-376.PMC3845604.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3683474", "abstract": "We evaluate differences in outcomes in younger (<65 years) and older (≥65 years) patients for target lesion failure (TLF) at 2-year follow-up in an unselected consecutive series of patients treated with the everolimus- (EES) and paclitaxel-eluting (PES) stents at a tertiary medical center. 348 consecutive patients (younger 150; older 198) stented with the EES and PES were retrospectively analyzed. The primary endpoint was TLF (composite endpoint of cardiac death, non fatal myocardial infarction due to index vessel and target lesion revascularization (TLR)). At 2 years follow up, younger versus older patients had the following outcomes respectively: TLF 27.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f6/f3/PMC3683474.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3836373", "abstract": "Accumulating evidence suggests that adventitial fibroblasts play a significant role in contributing to inflammation of the arterial wall and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. The effects of gp130 cytokines on these cells (including oncostatin M-[OSM] and IL-6), some of which have been implicated in atherosclerosis, are currently unknown. Experiments were performed to determine whether gp130 cytokines regulate human aortic adventitial fibroblasts (HAoAFs) or smooth muscle cells (HAoSMCs) alone or in context of TLR-4 ligands (also implicated in atherosclerosis). HAoAFs and HAoSMCs were stimulated with LPS and/or one of OSM, IL-6, IL-11, IL-31, or LIF. ELISAs performed on cell supernatants showed that stimulation with OSM alone caused increased MCP-1, IL-6, and VEGF levels. When combined, LPS and OSM synergized to increase MCP-1, IL-6, VEGF protein, and mRNA expression as assessed by qRT-PCR, in both HAoAFs and HAoSMCs, while LPS-induced IL-8 levels were reduced. Such effects were not observed with other gp130 cytokines. Signalling pathways including STATs, MAPKinases, and NFκB were activated, and LPS induced steady state mRNA levels of the OSM receptor chains OSMRβ and gp130. The results suggest that OSM is able to synergize with TLR-4 ligands to induce proinflammatory responses by HAoAFs and HAoSMCs, supporting the notion that OSM regulation of these cells contributes to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a1/05/PMC3836373.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4837858", "abstract": "Background: Cerebral glucose metabolism changes are always observed in patients suffering from malignant tumors. This preliminary study aimed to investigate the brain glucose metabolism changes in patients with lung cancer of different histological types. Methods: One hundred and twenty patients with primary untreated lung cancer, who visited People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University from February 2012 to July 2013, were divided into three groups based on histological types confirmed by biopsy or surgical pathology, which included adenocarcinoma (52 cases), squamous cell carcinoma (43 cases), and small-cell carcinoma (25 cases). The whole body 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) of these cases was retrospectively studied. The brain PET data of three groups were analyzed individually using statistical parametric maps (SPM) software, with 50 age-matched and gender-matched healthy controls for comparison. Results: The brain resting glucose metabolism in all three lung cancer groups showed regional cerebral metabolic reduction. The hypo-metabolic cerebral regions were mainly distributed at the left superior and middle frontal, bilateral superior and middle temporal and inferior and middle temporal gyrus. Besides, the hypo-metabolic regions were also found in the right inferior parietal lobule and hippocampus in the small-cell carcinoma group. The area of the total hypo-metabolic cerebral regions in the small-cell carcinoma group (total voxel value 3255) was larger than those in the adenocarcinoma group (total voxel value 1217) and squamous cell carcinoma group (total voxel value 1292). Conclusions: The brain resting glucose metabolism in patients with lung cancer shows regional cerebral metabolic reduction and the brain hypo-metabolic changes are related to the histological types of lung cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1e/66/CMJ-128-301.PMC4837858.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3684470", "abstract": "Objective The objectives of the current study were to translate and adapt Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC) into Persian language and to investigate its reliability and validity in an Iranian autistic sample. Methods A total sample of 134 children with autism spectrum disorders aged 6-15 years were assigned to the study. The process of cross-cultural adaptation was performed according to international methodological steps as following: translation, back-translation, revision by an expert committee and pretest. A sample of 20 primary caregivers of autistic children were pretested. The content validity of the ATEC was reviewed by the expert committee all through the stages. The construct quality of the questionnaire was evaluated by comparison of the adapted version of the instrument with similar tests assessed similar factors. Moreover, the reliability of the questionnaire was evaluated through stability and homogeneity assessments. Findings The results showed good content validity and internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.86-0.93). In relation to construct validity, there was significant correlation between ATEC subscales and raw data obtained from Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) (r=0.38-0.79). The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient for the test–retest reliability was excellent for all the subscales and also for total scores (ICC: 0.79 - 0.93). Conclusion Cross-cultural adaptation of ATEC was successful. The psychometric properties were verified and indicated that the adapted questionnaire is valid and reliable to use in Iranian culture.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7a/56/IJPD-23-269.PMC3684470.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4559186", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Gemcitabine is a chemotherapeutic agent frequently used by for the treatment of several malignancies both in the adjuvant and metastatic setting. Although myelosuppression is the most adverse event of this therapy, gemcitabine might induce severe pulmonary toxicities. We describe a case of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) related to gemcitabine. CASE PRESENTATION The patient was an 83-year-old man with a metastatic pancreatic cancer who was treated by gemcitabine as first-line therapy. He was in good health and received no other chemotherapy. A dose of 1000 mg/m2 of gemcitabine was administered over a 30-minute intravenous infusion on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle. After a period of 6 months, a complete response was observed. Nevertheless, the patient developed a severe dyspnea, with arterial hypoxemia and very low lung diffusion for carbon monoxide. A CT scan showed diffuse ground glass opacities with septal lines, bilateral pleural effusion, and lymph node enlargement. On echocardiography, there was a suspicion of pulmonary hypertension with elevated systolic pulmonary artery pressure and normal left ventricular pressures. Right heart catheterization confirmed pulmonary hypertension and normal pulmonary artery occlusion pressure. Diagnosis of PVOD was made, and a gemcitabine-induced toxicity was suspected. A symptomatic treatment was started. At last follow-up, patient was in functional class I with near-normal of CT scan, arterial blood gases, and echocardiography. A gemcitabine-induced PVOD is the more likely diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/b6/PMC4559186.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5067331", "abstract": "Gluten promotes type 1 diabetes in nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice and likely also in humans. In NOD mice and in non-diabetes-prone mice, it induces inflammation in the pancreatic lymph nodes, suggesting that gluten can initiate inflammation locally. Further, gliadin fragments stimulate insulin secretion from beta cells directly. We hypothesized that gluten fragments may cross the intestinal barrier to be distributed to organs other than the gut. If present in pancreas, gliadin could interact directly with the immune system and the beta cells to initiate diabetes development. We orally and intravenously administered 33-mer and 19-mer gliadin peptide to NOD, BALB/c, and C57BL/6 mice and found that the peptides readily crossed the intestinal barrier in all strains. Several degradation products were found in the pancreas by mass spectroscopy. Notably, the exocrine pancreas incorporated large amounts of radioactive label shortly after administration of the peptides. The study demonstrates that, even in normal animals, large gliadin fragments can reach the pancreas. If applicable to humans, the increased gut permeability in prediabetes and type 1 diabetes patients could expose beta cells directly to gliadin fragments. Here they could initiate inflammation and induce beta cell stress and thus contribute to the development of type 1 diabetes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/37/92/PMC5067331.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5110904", "abstract": "A 43-year-old man was admitted for head trauma after falling backward. The patient complained of diplopia. Unilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia (INO) was diagnosed during the neurologic examination. Initially, no specific finding was shown on T2-weighted, T1-weighted, and fluid attenuated inversion recovery brain magnetic resonance image (MRI) or brain computed tomography (CT). However, susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) definitively demonstrated a tiny hemorrhage at the midline of the pontomesencephalic junction. The patient's symptom improved after 12 weeks. We discuss the clinical significance of SWI when traumatic INO due to a tiny hemorrhage is suspected.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/8c/kjn-12-140.PMC5110904.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3724043", "abstract": "Wilson's disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder of copper metabolism that results in the accumulation of copper in the body and primarily in the liver, brain, and cornea. Copper is a toxic metal and might be associated with cancer induction. Most malignancies associated with WD are hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. Other intra-abdominal malignancies have been only rarely reported. To our knowledge, this is the first report to suggest that patients with WD may be vulnerable to a malignant change in the colonic mucosa during long-term copper chelating therapy. We report a case of colonic adenocarcinoma in a patient with WD and review the related literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/0b/gnl-7-500.PMC3724043.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2518332", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE—The purpose of this study was to evaluate the 2-year pulmonary safety of inhaled human insulin (Exubera [EXU]) in 635 nonsmoking adults with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Patients were randomly assigned to receive prandial EXU or subcutaneous insulin (regular or short-acting) plus basal (intermediate- or long-acting) insulin. The primary end points were the annual rate of decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO). RESULTS—Small differences in FEV1 favoring subcutaneous insulin developed during the first 3 months but did not progress. Adjusted treatment group differences in FEV1 annual rate of change were −0.007 l/year (90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1b/21/1723.PMC2518332.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5183642", "abstract": "Purpose Lip cancer can be treated by surgery, external radiotherapy, and/or brachytherapy (BT). In recent years, BT has become increasingly favored for this type of cancer. The aim of the present study was to analyze local control and survival of patients treated at our institution between July 1989 and June 2008. Material and methods We performed a retrospective study of 121 patients (109 males and 12 females) who underwent lip cancer brachytherapy from July 1989 to June 2008. Median age was 67 years and median follow-up was 31.8 months (range 20-188 months). Out of 121 patients, 100 (82.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/9c/JCB-2-14480.PMC5183642.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3835638", "abstract": "This study describes the first case of biliary peritonitis after radiofrequency ablation diagnosed by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging with gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA), a hepatocyte-specific MR imaging contrast agent. The image acquired 300 minutes after the administration of Gd-EOB-DTPA was useful to make a definite diagnosis and to identify the pathway of bile leakage. It is important to decide on the acquisition timing with consideration of the predicted location of bile duct injury.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/51/64/kjr-14-914.PMC3835638.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4887046", "abstract": "Background The European Community Respiratory Health Survey is a major international study designed to assess lung health in adults. This Australian follow-up investigated changes in symptoms between sexes and the roles of asthma, smoking, age, sex, height, and change in body mass index (ΔBMI) on lung function decline (LFD), which is a major risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods LFD was measured as the rate of decline over time in FEV1 (mL/year) (ΔFEV1) and FVC (ΔFVC) between 1993 and 2013. Multiple linear regression was used to estimate associations between risk factors and LFD, separately for males and females. Multiple logistic regression was used to assess sex differences and changes in respiratory symptoms over time. Results In Melbourne, 318 subjects (53.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/ef/copd-11-1097.PMC4887046.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1939918", "abstract": "Lemierre's syndrome is an anaerobic suppurative thrombophlebitis involving the internal jugular vein secondary to oropharyngeal infection. There is only one previous case report in pregnancy which was complicated by premature delivery of an infant that suffered significant neurological damage. We present an atypical case diagnosed in the second trimester with a live birth at term. By reporting this case, we hope to increase the awareness of obstetricians to the possibility of Lemierre's syndrome when patients present with signs of unabating oropharyngeal infection and pulmonary symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/50/00/PMC1939918.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2693652", "abstract": "This study was performed to determine the incidence and seroprevalence of hepatitis A virus (HAV) infections in young soldiers in the Republic of Korea Army. From January 2000 through December 2004, a total of 147 hepatitis A cases were reported to the Armed Forces Medical Command. The annual incidence rates were 7.4 per 100,000 persons in 2000, 1.6 in 2001, 4.4 in 2002, 9.8 in 2003, and 6.2 in 2004, based on the reported cases among approximately 500,000 soldiers. All patients were males with a median age of 21 yr (range, 19-27). The most common symptom was nausea (86.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/77/c9/jkms-22-546.PMC2693652.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4196502", "abstract": "The causes of sciatica are variable and include musculoskeletal, dermatologic, infectious, neoplastic, and vascular disorders. In many cases, the symptom is usually caused by degenerative disease in the spine with the compression or irritation of spinal nerve. On the other hands, there are also several announced extra-spinal causes including aneurysm, diabetes, and radiation for sciatica in a low rate. Among the extra-spinal cases, aneurysms arising from iliac vessels are sometimes developing a diagnostic confusion with the spinal causes, and delayed diagnosis can lead to poor prognosis. It is very important to pay attention weather the aneurysmal cause is involved in the symptom of sciatica.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/4f/kjpain-27-360.PMC4196502.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4736008", "abstract": "Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a severe sight-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus. Retinal laser photocoagulation, antivascular endothelial growth factors, steroid therapy, and pars plana vitrectomy are now used extensively to treat advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy. Currently, diagnostic devices like ultrawide field fundus fluorescein angiography and the improvement of optical coherence tomography have provided quicker and more precise diagnosis of early diabetic retinopathy. Thus, treatment protocols have been modified accordingly. Various types of lasers, including the subthreshold micropulse laser and RPE-targeting laser, and selective targeted photocoagulation may be future alternatives to conventional retinal photocoagulation, with fewer complications. The new developed intravitreal medications and implants have provided more therapeutic options, with promising results. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/75/79/PMC4736008.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4438402", "abstract": "The dialysis disequilibrium syndrome (DDS) is characterized by progressive neurological symptoms and signs attributable to cerebral edema that occurs due to fluid shifts into the brain following a relatively rapid decrease in serum osmolality during hemodialysis (HD). Since continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is less efficient at solute clearance than intermittent HD, it seems logical that this mode of therapy is less likely to cause DDS. This entity has not been previously reported to occur with this modality. Here, we report two cases of DDS associated with CRRT that provide insights into its pathophysiological mechanisms and suggest strategies for its prevention.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/15/32/sft087.PMC4438402.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2447551", "abstract": "Patients with cirrhosis who develop tense ascites and hepatorenal syndrome have a very high mortality and present a management challenge. Current debate stems from a lack of studies evaluating changes in effective arterial blood volume following paracentesis or targeting fluid replacement with appropriate vascular physiological measures to ensure no paracentesis-related circulatory dysfunction. The study by Umgelter and colleagues addresses a goal-directed approach to fluid management in hepatorenal syndrome and raises several mechanistic questions, the answers to which are likely to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology in hepatorenal syndrome and to guide future management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/75/70/PMC2447551.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2629933", "abstract": "Purpose To investigate the short-term efficacy of topical immunosuppressive agents on the survival of cultivated allo-conjunctival equivalents. Methods Twenty-five eyes of New Zealand white rabbits were included. Temporal conjunctivae were trephined to a diameter of 7.5 mm, and then cultured allo-conjunctival epithelial cells on amniotic membrane were transplanted onto them. Various immunosuppressants including steroid, cyclosporine, and rapamycin were applied topically four times a day for a week. Epithelial defects and graft edema were graded daily. Numbers of inflammatory cells were measured in H   E. PKH26 and cytokeratin 4 and 7 were immunostained. Results Earlier epithelialization was observed in 1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/ac/kjo-22-123.PMC2629933.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3670637", "abstract": "The patient was a male in his 70s with a history of chronic renal failure and dilated cardiomyopathy. In January 2011, he underwent abdominoperineal resection of the rectum, right hepatic lobectomy, and resection of a portal vein tumor thrombus with a diagnosis of rectal cancer and metastatic liver cancer accompanied by portal vein tumor thrombosis. Although 5-fluorouracil + l-leucovorin therapy (RPMI regimen) was carried out as postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy, the tumor marker (CEA and VA19-9) levels increased 8 months after surgery. Since the functions of major organs were impaired, UFT® + UZEL® therapy was started. The tumor marker levels decreased temporarily, but increased again 12 months after surgery, and so intravenous instillation of panitumumab was initiated. Nine administrations have been performed to date, with no increase in tumor marker levels or exacerbation of the condition. Also, no grade 2 or severer adverse event has been noted according to CTCAE v.4.0. The experience with this patient suggests the possibility that exacerbation of the condition of patients with liver metastasis of colorectal cancer accompanied by portal vein tumor thrombosis with abnormalities in the functions of major organs can be controlled temporarily by the administration of panitumumab alone.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/98/cro-0006-0275.PMC3670637.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4251530", "abstract": "Primary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) is a rare clinical event in the People’s Republic of China. As APS is easily neglected or misdiagnosed, a delayed treatment can result. The patient reported here was a 32-year-old female who died by systemic venous thrombosis on day 11 after a cesarean section delivery. Luckily, the baby survived. A blood test demonstrated that the patient’s platelets were decreased at 19 weeks of gestation. Anti-cardolipin antibody and antiβ2GP1 (anti-β2-glycoprotein-I antibody) were positive at 36 weeks and 2 days of gestation. This patient was diagnosed with APS. Unfortunately, as physicians, we could not provide proper treatment as the patient’s relatives were concerned that the proposed treatment would have negative effects on the infant’s health. This clinical case strongly suggests that physicians need to appreciate that APS is a very serious condition, especially for pregnant women, and that proper treatment should be provided as early as possible to avoid a bad outcome, despite the fact that a cure for this disease is not currently available.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/0e/imcrj-7-159.PMC4251530.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4398942", "abstract": "The aim of this study is to investigate the insulin-like growth factor type 2 (IGF2R) gene and circulating soluble IGF2R in relation to type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Six hundred fifty-four subjects without history of diabetes were screened for diabetes by oral glucose tolerance test. In addition, 145 subjects with known diabetes were recruited from a local diabetes clinic. Circulating IGF2R levels were measured by ELISA method; plasma glucose was measured by colorimetric method; insulin levels were determined by chemiluminescent method; IGF2R gene rs416572 was genotyped using real-time PCR. The distributions of IGF2R genotypes were 69.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3b/28/PMC4398942.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3065040", "abstract": "It has been suggested that glucose metabolism within the brain's default network is directly associated with—and may even cause—the amyloid pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD).  Here we performed 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) and [11C]-labeled Pittsburgh Compound B (PIB) positron emission tomography (PET) on cognitively normal elderly subjects and on AD patients and conducted quantitative regional analysis of FDG- and PIB-PET images using an automated region of interest technique. We confirmed that resting glucose metabolism within the posterior components of the brain's default network  is high in normal elderly subjects and low in AD patients, which is partially  in agreement with the regional pattern of PIB uptake within the default network of AD patients. However, in several regions outside the default network, glucose metabolism was high in normal elderly subjects but was not depressed in AD patients, who exhibited significantly increased PIB uptakes in these regions. In contrast, the level of resting glucose metabolism in the default network and in regions outside the default  network in normal elderly subjects was significantly correlated with the level of regional PIB uptake in AD patients.  These results are discussed with experimental evidence suggesting  that beta amyloid production and amyloid precursor protein regulation are dependent on neuronal activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a5/e5/PMC3065040.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3910460", "abstract": "A microchip pressure-driven liquid chromatographic system with a packed column has been designed and fabricated by using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). The liquid chromatographic column was packed with mesoporous silica beads of Ia3d space group. Separation of dyes and biopolymers was carried out to verify the performance of the chip. A mixture of dyes (fluorescein and rhodamine B) and a biopolymer mixture (10 kDa Dextran and 66 kDa BSA) were separated and the fluorescence technique was employed to detect the movement of the molecules. Fluorescein molecule was a nonretained species and rhodamine B was attached onto silica surface when dye mixture in deionized water was injected into the microchannel. The retention times for dextran molecule and BSA molecule in biopolymer separation experiment were 45 s and 120 s, respectively. Retention factor was estimated to be 3.3 for dextran and 10.4 for BSA. The selectivity was 3.2 and resolution was 10.7. Good separation of dyes and biopolymers was achieved and the chip design was verified.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/49/2f/PMC3910460.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3175696", "abstract": "Evidence for a relationship between T4 and T3 and glucose metabolism appeared over 100 years ago when the influence of thyroid hormone excess in the deterioration of glucose metabolism was first noticed. Since then, it has been known that hyperthyroidism is associated with insulin resistance. More recently, hypothyroidism has also been linked to decreased insulin sensitivity. The explanation to this apparent paradox may lie in the differential effects of thyroid hormones at the liver and peripheral tissues level.  The purpose of this paper is to explore the effects of thyroid hormones in glucose metabolism and analyze the mechanisms whereby alterations of thyroid hormones lead to insulin resistance.  ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4f/f9/PMC3175696.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4902148", "abstract": "Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine decade-long trends (2001–2011) in, and factors associated with, door-to-balloon time within 90 minutes of hospital presentation among patients hospitalized with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who received a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods Residents of central Massachusetts hospitalized with STEMI who received a primary PCI at two major PCI-capable medical centers in central Massachusetts on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011 comprised the study population (n=629). Multivariable regression analyses were used to examine factors associated with failing to receive a primary PCI within 90 minutes after emergency department (ED) arrival. Results The average age of this patient population was 61.9 years; 30.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/f4/clep-8-141.PMC4902148.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5126215", "abstract": "Objective(s): Neuroprotective effect of creatine (Cr) against β-amyloid (Aβ) is reported in an in vitro study. This study investigated the effect of Cr supplementation on β-amyloid toxicity in vivo. Materials and Methods: Thirty two, male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups. During ten weeks of study, control group went through no surgical or dietary intervention. At the 4th week of study Sham group had a hippocampal normal saline injection, while Aβ and AβCr groups had an β-amyloid injection in the hippocampus. AβCr group were fed by Cr diet during the study. After 10 weeks, Morris water maze (MWM) test was administered to measure learning ability and memory retrieval. Animals were sacrificed for TUNEL anti apoptotic assay and staining of amyloid plaques by Thioflavin-T. Results: There was a significant retention deficit among AβCr and Aβ group while the escape latency and the distance traveled to the platform were significantly higher in AβCr group compared to Aβ group. AβCr group had same percent of TUNEL positive neurons compared to Aβ group. Conclusion: Cr supplementation before and after β-amyloid injection into the CA1 area of hippocampus deteriorates the learning and memory impairment of rats and it does not protect neuronal apoptosis caused by β-amyloid.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/80/IJBMS-19-1159.PMC5126215.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4840419", "abstract": "A 40-year-old male developed refractory acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) after various treatments including all-trans retinoic acid, tamibarotene, arsenic trioxide (As2O3), conventional chemotherapy, and autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation. We attempted to use both tamibarotene and As2O3 as a combination therapy, and he achieved molecular complete remission. Grade 2 prolongation of the QTc interval on the electrocardiogram was observed during the therapy. The combination therapy of As2O3 and tamibarotene may be effective and tolerable for treating refractory APL cases who have no treatment options, even when they have previously been treated with tamibarotene and As2O3as a single agent.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/a7/main.PMC4840419.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4293547", "abstract": "Systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disease characterized by alterations in microvascular structure and function. In these patients, numerous studies have demonstrated a relationship between capillary morphology and peripheral blood perfusion. Nailfold videocapillaroscopy reveals the peripheral microvascular morphology and thus allows classification and scoring of capillary abnormalities with respect to different microangiopathy patterns (early, active, and late). Laser Doppler flowmetry and laser speckle contrast analysis can be used to estimate cutaneous blood flow through microvessels and to assess and quantify blood perfusion at peripheral sites. These two methods are also used to identify changes in digital blood perfusion after the infusion of vasodilators.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/c9/kjim-30-1.PMC4293547.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4715398", "abstract": " Background: We explored survival of skin cancer and its determinants in Kurdistan province of Iran.   Methods: In a retrospective cohort design, we identified all registered skin cancer patients in Kurdistan Cancer Registry from year 2000 to 2009. Information on time and cause of death were obtained from Registrar’s office and information on type, stage and anatomic locations were extracted from patients’ hospital records. Additional demographic information was collected via a telephone interview. We calculated the 3 and 5 years survival. Survival experiences in different groups were compared using log rank test. Cox proportional hazard model was built and hazard ratios and their 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/b8/MJIRI-29-277.PMC4715398.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4380700", "abstract": "Lead induced transient right bundle branch block is not uncommon during pacemaker implantation. We describe a patient with old anterior wall myocardial infarction with severe left ventricular dysfunction presenting with recurrent ventricular tachycardia who developed transient right bundle branch block and pseudomyocardial infacrction pattern during AICD implantation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/de/main.PMC4380700.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3417474", "abstract": "Some bacterial toxins and viruses have evolved the capacity to bind mammalian glycosphingolipids to gain access to the cell interior, where they can co-opt the endogenous mechanisms of cellular trafficking and protein translocation machinery to cause toxicity. Cholera toxin (CT) is one of the best-studied examples, and is the virulence factor responsible for massive secretory diarrhea seen in cholera. CT enters host cells by binding to monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (GM1 gangliosides) at the plasma membrane where it is transported retrograde through the trans-Golgi network (TGN) into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In the ER, a portion of CT, the CT-A1 polypeptide, is unfolded and then “retro-translocated” to the cytosol by hijacking components of the ER associated degradation pathway (ERAD) for misfolded proteins. CT-A1 rapidly refolds in the cytosol, thus avoiding degradation by the proteasome and inducing toxicity. Here, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of how the bacterial AB5 toxins induce disease. We highlight the molecular mechanisms by which these toxins use glycosphingolipid to traffic within cells, with special attention to how the cell senses and sorts the lipid receptors. We also discuss several new studies that address the mechanisms of toxin unfolding in the ER and the mechanisms of CT A1-chain retro-translocation to the cytosol.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6e/5c/PMC3417474.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3124858", "abstract": " Background. This study investigated the prevalence of and impact of risk factors for deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in patients with chronic diseases, bedridden or with greatly limited mobility, cared for at home or in long-term residential facilities. Methods. We enrolled 221 chronically ill patients, all over 18 years old, markedly or totally immobile, at home or in long-term care facilities. They were screened at the bedside by simplified compression ultrasound. Results. The prevalence of asymptomatic proximal DVT was 18", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c4/52/PMC3124858.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4965439", "abstract": "Among patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT) and atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) can coexist in a single patient. Direct transition of both tachycardias is rare; however, it can occur after premature atrial or ventricular activity if the cycle lengths of the two tachycardias are similar. Furthermore, persistent atrial activation by an accessory pathway (AP) located outside of the AV node during ongoing AVNRT is also rare. This article describes a case of uncommon atrial activation by an AP during AVNRT and gradual transition of the two supraventricular tachycardias without any preceding atrial or ventricular activity in a patient with preexcitation syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a4/1e/kcj-46-574.PMC4965439.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4441246", "abstract": "Background: Forensic dentistry is one of the most reliable methods used in human identification when other technique as fingerprint, DNA, visual identification cannot be used. Genetic disorders have several manifestations that can target the intra-oral cavity, the cranio-facial area or any location in the human body. Materials and Methods: A literature search of the scientific database (Medline and Science Direct) for the years 1990 to 2014 was carried out to find out all the available papers that indicate oral, cranio-facial signs, genetic and human identification. Results: A table with 10 genetic conditions was described with oral and cranio-facial signs that can help forensic specialist in human identification. Conclusion: This review showed a correlation between genetics, facial and intra-oral signs that would help forensic ondontologist in the identification procedures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/67/JIOH-7-81.PMC4441246.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5095262", "abstract": "Purpose In early stage mobile tongue cancer radical radiotherapy offers good local control and organ preservation, which is especially important in the group of young patients. In our department, for many years HDR-BT has been performed in mobile tongue cancers as a sole treatment or as a “boost” with EBRT. The aim of the study was to show our experience with HDR-BT in early stage mobile tongue cancers among young patients. Material and methods From 2001 to 2006 in Maria Skłodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, five patients under 45 years with mobile tongue cancer were treated with HDR brachytherapy (T1N0M0 – 3/5 and T2N0M0 – 2/5); 4 with HDR brachytherapy “boost” and 1 as a sole treatment. One woman was previously treated with tumour resection, but because of positive surgical margins was referred for radiotherapy. All patients had clinically negative lymph nodes, without dissection. They were treated with interstitial HDR-BT (3-8 catheters). In 4 patients treated with HDR-BT as a “boost”, total doses ranged from 18 to 21 Gy given in 6-7 fractions (twice a day, 3 Gy per fraction). Total doses in EBRT (to local lymph nodes and tumour bed) ranged from 50 to 60 Gy (1.8-2 Gy per fraction 5 days/week). One patient, treated with radical HDR brachytherapy, received 45 Gy in 10 fractions and 50 Gy in EBRT to regional lymph nodes. Results We did not notice local recurrences or distant metastases in our group of patients. Median follow-up was 67 months (range 47-79 months). All patients preserved normal tongue function. A severe late complication occurred in 1 patient – fracture of the mandible. Conclusions In the analysed group of young patients with mobile tongue cancer interstitial HDR brachytherapy in combination with EBRT was an effective and well tolerated treatment modality which allowed preservation of the tongue and its function.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/37/JCB-2-15123.PMC5095262.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4398783", "abstract": "L-transposition of the great arteries (L-TGA) is a rare congenital anomaly and could cause complete atrioventricular (AV) block at relatively younger age. We present a case of 43-year-old male who complained of dizziness due to complete AV block. We confirmed L-TGA using transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac computed tomography. Permanent pacemaker was inserted without complications. No invasive treatment including corrective surgery was performed because patient's cardiac function was almost normal and the symptom was completely resolved after pacemaker insertion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/54/bd/jcu-23-36.PMC4398783.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2902674", "abstract": "As a nanotechnology has been actively applied to the overall areas of scientific fields, it is necessary to understand the characteristic features, physical behaviors and the potential effects of exposure to nanomaterials and their toxicity. In this article we review the immunological influences induced by several nanomaterials and emphasize establishment of the animal models to estimate the impact of these nanomaterials on development of immunological diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/56/in-10-85.PMC2902674.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2797418", "abstract": "Introduction Non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE ACS) are highly prevalent in the United States and globally, and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Discussion The key role of platelet-mediated thrombosis in the pathogenesis of NSTE ACS is confirmed by the proven clinical benefits of antiplatelet agents (aspirin and a P2Y12 adenosine diphosphate [ADP] receptor antagonist) in this setting. Despite the documented advantages and broad use of antiplatelet therapy, the long-term morbidity and mortality rates remain significant, and the bleeding risk remains substantial. Residual risk can be attributed, at least in part, to the fact that thrombosis continues in the presence of current treatments because aspirin and P2Y12 ADP receptor antagonists each block only one of multiple platelet activation pathways, and thus do not impact other platelet activation pathways, such as the one triggered by interaction of thrombin with protease-activated receptor (PAR)-1, thereby exposing patients to continued accumulation of thrombotic events. Conclusion These considerations suggest that novel therapies with a different mechanism of action, when used in combination with current antiplatelet agents, may provide more comprehensive inhibition of platelet activation and additional reductions in morbidity and mortality, potentially without incremental bleeding risk.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/16/10557_2009_Article_6204.PMC2797418.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4156785", "abstract": "The types, interpretation, and use of first- and second-trimester aneuploidy screening are often unclear for many women. This impairs appropriate decision making and understanding of the implications of prenatal genetic testing options. The purpose of this study was to examine the utilization of Stepwise Sequential screening in our Midwestern population, demographic factors associated with choice of screening and method of risk reporting and it’s potential impact on women’s choices. First trimester screening was performed for 2,634 women during the study period. Results were not reported or “framed” as “positive” or “negative”. Rather, the specific age-risk and screen-risk for T21 were relayed, along with options for follow-up Stepwise Sequential screening and invasive testing. Nearly 80 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/35/bf/PMC4156785.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3034954", "abstract": "The diagnosis of bacterial endocarditis remains a challenge, as nearly half of cases develop in the absence of preexistent heart disease and known risk factors. Not infrequently, a blunted clinical course at onset can lead to erroneous diagnoses. We present the case of a 47-year-old previously healthy man in which a presumptive diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome was made based on the absence of echocardiographically detected heart involvement, a negative blood culture, normal C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, a positive lupus anticoagulant (LAC) test, and evidence of splenic infarcts. The patient eventually developed massive aortic endocarditic involvement, with blood cultures positive for Streptococcus bovis, and was referred for valvular replacement. This case not only reminds us of the diagnostic challenges of bacterial endocarditis, but also underlines the need for a critical application of antiphospholipid syndrome diagnostic criteria.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/09/PMC3034954.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2731864", "abstract": "Objective Logistic regression analysis (LRA), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and a neural network (NN) are commonly used statistical models in computer-aided diagnostic (CAD) systems for breast ultrasonography (US). The aim of this study was to clarify the diagnostic ability of the use of these statistical models for future applications of CAD systems, such as three-dimensional (3D) power Doppler imaging, vascularity evaluation and the differentiation of a solid mass. Materials and Methods A database that contained 3D power Doppler imaging pairs of non-harmonic and tissue harmonic images for 97 benign and 86 malignant solid tumors was utilized. The virtual organ computer-aided analysis-imaging program was used to analyze the stored volumes of the 183 solid breast tumors. LRA, an SVM and NN were employed in comparative analyses for the characterization of benign and malignant solid breast masses from the database. Results The values of area under receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, referred to as Az values for the use of non-harmonic 3D power Doppler US with LRA, SVM and NN were 0.9341, 0.9185 and 0.9086, respectively. The Az values for the use of harmonic 3D power Doppler US with LRA, SVM and NN were 0.9286, 0.8979 and 0.9009, respectively. The Az values of six ROC curves for the use of LRA, SVM and NN for non-harmonic or harmonic 3D power Doppler imaging were similar. Conclusion The diagnostic performances of these three models (LRA, SVM and NN) are not different as demonstrated by ROC curve analysis. Depending on user emphasis for the use of ROC curve findings, the use of LRA appears to provide better sensitivity as compared to the other statistical models.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/1a/kjr-10-464.PMC2731864.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4414992", "abstract": "Objective(s): Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) can be isolated from adult tissues such as adipose tissue and other sources. Among these sources, adipose tissue (because of easy access) and placenta (due to its immunomodulatory properties, in addition to other useful properties), have attracted more attention in terms of research. The isolation and comparison of MSC from these two sources provides a proper source for clinical experimentation. The aim of this study was to compare the characteristics of MSC isolated from human adipose tissue and placenta. Materials and Methods: Adipose and placental MSC were isolated from the subcutaneous adipose tissues of 10 healthy women (25 to 40 years) and from a fresh term placenta (n= 1), respectively. Stem cells were characterized and compared by flow cytometry using CD29, CD31, CD34, CD44, CD45, CD105, CD166 and HLA-DR markers. Osteocytes and adipocytes were differentiated from isolated human mesenchymal stem cells (HMSC). Results: Adipose and placenta-derived MSC exhibited the same morphological features. ADSC differentiated faster than placenta; however, both were differentiated, taking up to 21 days for osteocyte and 14 days for adipocyte differentiation. About 90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/d7/IJBMS-18-259.PMC4414992.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2945082", "abstract": "The measurement of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is recommended for the diagnosis of decompensated heart failure, the prognosis of chronic heart failure is worse if BNP is increased and studies suggest that BNP is useful to guide therapy. A study by Di Somma and colleagues adds to the body of evidence showing that patients with a marked decrease in BNP concentrations during their hospital admission are less likely to be readmitted with a further adverse cardiac event than patients in whom BNP fails to decrease. However, the wider interpretation of BNP concentrations in critically ill patients with other conditions remains uncertain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c0/5b/PMC2945082.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3085499", "abstract": "Natural killer (NK) cells are central components of the innate immunity. In murine models, it has been shown that NK cells can control both local tumor growth and metastasis due to their ability to exert direct cellular cytotoxicity without prior sensitization and to secrete immunostimulatory cytokines like IFN-γ. The latter participates in cancer elimination by inhibiting cellular proliferation and angiogenesis, promoting apoptosis, and stimulating the adaptive immune system, and it is instrumental for enhancing Ag processing and presentation. Nevertheless, NK cells display impaired functionality and capability to infiltrate tumors in cancer patients. Also, NK cells are feasible targets of stimulation to participate in immunotherapeutic approaches like antibody-based strategies and adoptive cell transfer. Thus, multiple attempts currently aim to manipulate NK for utilization in the immunotherapy of cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/7c/PMC3085499.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3843906", "abstract": "Idiopathic orbital inflammatory disease (IOID) is an idiopathic inflammatory process within the orbit that can result in permanent visual impairment. Although high-dose oral corticosteroids are currently the mainstay of therapy, their long-term usage can cause significant toxicity. We present a case of IOID that was successfully treated with the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab following failed steroid sparing with conventional second-line immunosuppressive agents.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c1/6f/cop-0004-0216.PMC3843906.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2995545", "abstract": "RNA interference (RNAi) is a widely used molecular biology technique to investigate the importance of specific genes in molecular pathways. Since mammalian cells are equipped with endogenous RNAi processing machinery, it has become common practice to transfect constructs that encode for short hairpin RNAs that are then cleaved to form the active RNAi sequences that bind to target mRNAs. Given the profit potential of this research approach, companies have developed retroviral libraries of shRNA constructs targeting the majority of the human genes. Recent technologic advances have allowed the rapid improvement of the vectors carrying the shRNA constructs while the silencing sequences remain the same. Therefore, sub-cloning of shRNA sequences from more obsolete vectors to newer vectors is a straightforward way to take advantage of newer delivery technologies. We describe here a streamlined procedure to transfer shRNA sequences from the pSM2 retroviral vector to a newer pGIPZ vector that is more stable, contains a GFP cassette and allows the preparation of high titer viral particles for transduction of cells and in vivo use. We demonstrate that our protocol provides a cost-effective and fast method to successfully sub-clone shRNA from a pSM2 retroviral vector to a pGIPZ lentiviral vector making it a useful tool for the investigators that have purchased pSM2 vectors in the past and wish now to upgrade their constructs by inserting them in more versatile vectors.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7b/19/jrgs-06-411.PMC2995545.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3964766", "abstract": "Stapedius and tensor tympani tenotomy is a relatively simple surgical procedure commonly performed to control pulsatile tinnitus due to middle ear myoclonus and for several other indications. We designed a cadaveric study to assess the feasibility of an entirely endoscopic approach to stapedius and tensor tympani tenotomy. We performed this endoscopic ear surgery in 10 cadaveric temporal bones and summarized our experience. Endoscopic stapedius and tensor tympani section is a new, minimally invasive treatment option for middle ear myoclonus that should be considered as the first line surgical approach in patients who fail medical therapy. The use of an endoscopic approach allows for easier access and vastly superior visualization of the relevant anatomy, which in turn allows the surgeon to minimize tissue dissection. The entire operation, including raising the tympanomeatal flap and tendon section, can be safely completed under visualization with a rigid endoscope.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/59/f6/PMC3964766.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3844242", "abstract": " Objective. Breast cancer survivors are highly sedentary, overweight, or obese, which puts them at increased risk for comorbid chronic disease. We examined the prevalence of, and changes in, metabolic syndrome following 6 months of an aerobic exercise versus usual care intervention in a sample of sedentary postmenopausal breast cancer survivors. Design and Methods. 65 participants were randomized to an aerobic exercise intervention (EX) (n = 35) mean BMI 30.8 (±5.9) kg/m2 or usual care (UC) (n = 30) mean BMI 29.4 (±7.4) kg/m2. Metabolic syndrome prevalence was determined, as well as change in criteria and overall metabolic syndrome. Results. At baseline, 55.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/88/4a/PMC3844242.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3322896", "abstract": "We report a laboratory-confirmed case of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in a pregnant woman. Although the patient had respiratory failure, a healthy infant was subsequently delivered, and the mother is now well. There was no evidence of viral shedding at delivery. Antibodies to SARS virus were detected in cord blood and breast milk.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/c1/PMC3322896.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4993254", "abstract": "Background There is an ongoing debate about the appropriate spirometric criterion for airway obstruction to detect COPD. Furthermore, the association of different criteria with comorbidity prevalence and inflammatory biomarkers in advanced age is unclear. Materials and methods Spirometry was performed in a population-based study (n=2,256) covering an age range of 41–90 years. COPD was spirometrically determined either by a fixed ratio (FR) of <0.7 for forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) or by FEV1/FVC below the lower limit of normal (LLN). Comorbidity prevalences and circulating biomarker levels (C-reactive protein [CRP], interleukin [IL]-6) were compared between subjects with or without COPD by the two criteria using logistic and multiple regression models, adjusting for sex and age. Results The prevalence of spirometrically defined COPD by FR increased with age from 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4d/7d/copd-11-1881.PMC4993254.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3476179", "abstract": "We present the case of 48-year-old woman suffering from migraine with aura (MA) since menarche. During her life the patient frequently presented catamenial MA attacks with an increasing frequency during pregnancy in particular in the second and third trimesters, and then during breast-feeding. Treatment with oral contraceptive (OC) for endometriosis and later with cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, fluorouracil (CMF) for breast cancer produced a higher number of attacks. Instead, she referred an improvement with gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) for the treatment of endometriosis and then with tamoxifen as hormonal therapy after mastectomy and chemotherapy for breast cancer. We highlight the importance of physiological hormonal modification and hormonal therapies on the course of MA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4b/ba/PMC3476179.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4972619", "abstract": "A 16-year old male patient visited the hospital complaining of inguinal pain and internal snapping of right hip joint. In physical examination, the patient was presumed to be diagnosed femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and acetabular labral tear. In radiologic evaluation, FAI and acetabular labral tear were identified and bony tumor associated with internal snapping was found on the posteromedial portion of the femoral neck. Despite of conservative treatment, there was no symptomatic improvement. So arthroscopic labral repair, osteoplasty and resection of bony tumor were performed. The tumor was pathologically diagnosed as osteochondroma through biopsy and all symptoms improved after surgery. There was no recurrence, complication or abnormal finding during 1 year follow up. Osteochondroma located at posteromedial portion of femoral neck can be a cause of internal snapping hip and although technical demands are challenging, arthroscopic resection can be a good treatment option.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/67/hp-27-43.PMC4972619.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4872273", "abstract": "Objective Rebamipide ophthalmic suspension was developed for the treatment of dry eyes and for other corneal diseases, promoting the secretion of both mucin in tear fluid and membrane-associated mucin, increasing the number of goblet cells, and restoring the barrier function of the corneal epithelium. We report a case of a persistent corneal epithelial defect in a patient with diabetes treated with topical application of rebamipide ophthalmic suspension. Case presentation A 73-year-old woman had a history of type 2 diabetes for 35 years and nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy for 23 years. She presented to our department with discharge and ophthalmalgia in the left eye. A corneal ulcer was detected, and culture of corneal scrapings was performed, with Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus canis being isolated. The infection was treated with levofloxacin eye drops and ofloxacin ophthalmic ointment based on the sensitivity profile of the isolate. However, a corneal epithelial defect persisted for approximately 2 months despite continuing treatment with 0.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d8/79/imcrj-9-113.PMC4872273.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3563555", "abstract": "In coronary artery surgery the superiority of the internal mammary artery graft in 10-year survival was documented in 1986. In 1999 it was demonstrated that death, reoperation and percutaneous transluminary coronary angioplasty were more frequent in patients undergoing single rather than bilateral internal mammary artery grafting. Today coronary artery bypass grafting surgery is challenged by the success story of modern interventional cardiology. The Syntax Study, however, clearly underlined the better outcome for patients with triple-vessel and/or left main disease undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting in terms of repeat revascularization. Another point of ongoing discussion is the comparison between on-pump and off-pump coronary artery revascularization techniques. Even if mixed results exists in the literature, in experienced hands the combination of aortic no-touch and total arterial revascularization, probably leads to the superiority in off pump coronary artery bypass grafting in terms of significantly decreased rates of mortality, stroke, major adverse cardiac and cerebral vascular events. Coronary artery surgery in the next decade will be influenced by the further progression of minimally invasive surgical principles and by a variety of other factors. The role of robotics and hybrid surgery has yet to be defined. Alternatives within surgery will not only need to move to a less disruptive strategy (e.g. from on-pump to off-pump bypass) but also have to secure sustained innovation, as we can be sure that the current coronary artery bypass grafting activity will change substantially.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/9e/hsrp-04-217.PMC3563555.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4500011", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study investigated two-point discrimination (TPD) and the electrical sensory threshold of the blind to define the effect of using Braille on the tactile and electrical senses. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-eight blind participants were divided equally into a text-reading and a Braille-reading group. We measured tactile sensory and electrical thresholds using the TPD method and a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator. [Results] The left palm TPD values were significantly different between the groups. The values of the electrical sensory threshold in the left hand, the electrical pain threshold in the left hand, and the electrical pain threshold in the right hand were significantly lower in the Braille group than in the text group. [Conclusion] These findings make it difficult to explain the difference in tactility between groups, excluding both palms. However, our data show that using Braille can enhance development of the sensory median nerve in the blind, particularly in terms of the electrical sensory and pain thresholds.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/b2/jpts-27-1919.PMC4500011.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4745391", "abstract": " Background. Introduction of nucleic acid testing (NAT) has helped in decreasing window period donations, resulting in increased safety of blood supplies. NAT combines the advantages of direct and highly sequence-specific detection of viral genomes. We analysed the performance of newer Procleix Ultrio Elite (PUE) and Procleix Ultrio assay (PUA) for the screening of the viral markers in our donor population. Material and Methods. 10,015 donor samples were screened by routine immunoassays and both versions of NAT. NAT yields detected were subjected to viral load estimation and to other serological markers. Results. A total of 21 NAT yields were detected; three were positive by both NAT systems, whereas 18 samples were reactive by PUE only. NAT yields include 18 HBV and 3 HCV yields, of which 17 HBV yields were occult infections and 1 was window period (WP) infection. All 3 HCV yields were WP infections. No HIV-1/HIV-2 yield was found. Conclusion. Efficient target capture chemistry in the new TMA assay version significantly improved sensitivity. NAT is superior to serological immunoassays for screening of the viral markers; and the efficient target capture system in the newer TMA assay, namely, the PUE system, has significantly improved sensitivity over the earlier versions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/07/b3/PMC4745391.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4034722", "abstract": "Mast cells play a key role in modulation of stress-induced cutaneous inflammation. In this study we investigate the impact of repeated exposure to stress on mast cell degranulation, in both hairy and glabrous skin. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: Stress 1 day (n = 8), Stress 10 days (n = 7), Stress 21 days (n = 6), and Control (n = 8). Rats in the stress groups were subjected to 2 h/day restraint stress. Subsequently, glabrous and hairy skin samples from animals of all groups were collected to assess mast cell degranulation by histochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. The impact of stress on mast cell degranulation was different depending on the type of skin and duration of stress exposure. Short-term stress exposure induced an amplification of mast cell degranulation in hairy skin that was maintained after prolonged exposure to stress. In glabrous skin, even though acute stress exposure had a profound stimulating effect on mast cell degranulation, it diminished progressively with long-term exposure to stress. The results of our study reinforce the view that mast cells are active players in modulating skin responses to stress and contribute to further understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms involved in stress-induced initiation or exacerbation of cutaneous inflammatory processes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d3/26/PMC4034722.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4940197", "abstract": "Objectives To assess the association between muscle invasion by oral squamous cell carcinoma of the posterior mandibular alveolar ridge and cervical lymph node metastasis on the basis of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods Twenty-six patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma of the posterior mandibular alveolar ridge were evaluated by MRI. The associations between cervical lymph node metastasis and independent factors evaluated by MRI were analyzed. Overall survival was also analyzed in this manner. Representative biopsy specimens were stained with anti-podoplanin and anti-CD34 antibodies. Results Mylohyoid muscle invasion was associated with cervical lymph node metastasis. A combinational factor of mylohyoid and/or buccinator muscle invasion was also associated with cervical lymph node metastasis. Cervical lymph node metastasis and masticator space invasion had a negative effect on overall survival. No lymphatic vessels were identified near the tumor invasion front within the mandible. In contrast, lymphatic vessels were identified near the front of tumor invasion in the muscles. Conclusion This study demonstrates an association between muscular invasion by oral squamous cell carcinoma of the posterior mandibular alveolar ridge and cervical lymph node metastasis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/7e/jkaoms-42-133.PMC4940197.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3947663", "abstract": " Aim. This study aimed to analyze blood lipid levels, temporal trend, and age distribution of dyslipidemia in civil aviators in China. Methods. The 305 Chinese aviators were selected randomly and followed up from 2006 to 2011. Their total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were evaluated annually. Mean values for each parameter by year were compared using a linear mixed-effects model. The temporal trend of borderline high, high, and low status for each index and of overall borderline high, hyperlipidemia, and dyslipidemia by year was tested using a generalized linear mixed model.  Results. The aviators' TC (F = 4.33, P < 0.01), HDL-C (F = 23.25, P < 0.01), and LDL-C (F = 6.13, P < 0.01) values differed across years. The prevalence of dyslipidemia (F = 5.53, P < 0.01), borderline high (F = 6.52, P < 0.01), and hyperlipidemia (F = 3.90, P < 0.01) also differed across years. The prevalence rates for hyperlipidemia and dyslipidemia were the highest in the 41–50-year-old and 31–40-year-old groups. Conclusions. Civil aviators in China were in high dyslipidemia and borderline high level and presented with dyslipidemia younger than other Chinese populations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8b/b2/PMC3947663.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3206376", "abstract": " Objective. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune disease in which interferons (IFNs) may play an essential role. We hypothesized that type I and III IFNs may be found in increased levels in patients and be responsible for SSc autoimmune status. Methods. Type I and III IFN and ISG basal expression profiles were measured by qPCR using RNA from PBMCs of patients and controls . Results. Type I IFNs are increased in SSc patients, while no induction of type III IFNs was detected. This induction cannot be related to IRF7, since no upregulation of this gene was seen on patients. Of the ISGs tested, 2′5′OAS levels were increased in patients, while 6–16 and MxA levels were not. Conclusions. While there is no indication of type III IFN induction, increased levels of type I IFNs may lead to abnormal regulation of ISGs that can be responsible for immune system alterations described for SSc.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a9/bc/PMC3206376.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5437433", "abstract": "Background Acute haemorrhagic leukoencephalitis (AHLE) is a rare and rapidly fatal disease of unknown aetiology. There is a paucity of literature on the presentation and management of this rare disease. Case Description We report the case of a 33-year-old female presenting with headache and left-sided apraxia. Imaging revealed a right-sided white matter lesion with extensive cytotoxic oedema. Pathology was suggestive of AHLE. She underwent an open excisional biopsy and was treated with high-dose corticosteroids. Three months since symptom onset she remains clinically well with resolving apraxia and radiological appearance. Conclusion This case may represent a milder spectrum of AHLE, which responded favourably to corticosteroids.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/56/crn-0009-0106.PMC5437433.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649359", "abstract": " Objectives. To develop fundal height (FH) growth curve from normal singleton pregnancy based on last menstrual period (LMP) and/or ultrasound dating for women in the northern part of Thailand.  Methods. A retrospective time-series study was conducted at four hospitals in the upper northern part of Thailand between January 2009 and March 2011. FH from 20 to 40 weeks was measured in centimeters. The FH growth curve was presented as smoothed function of the 10th, 50th, and 90th percentiles, which were derived from a regression model fitted by a multilevel model for continuous data. Results. FH growth curve was derived from 7,523 measurements of 1,038 women. Gestational age was calculated from LMP in 648 women and ultrasound in 390 women. The FH increased from 19.1 cm at 20 weeks to 35.4 cm at 40 weeks. The maximum increase of 1.0 cm/wk was observed between 20 and 32 weeks, declining to 0.7 cm/wk between 33 and 36 weeks and 0.3 cm/wk between 37 and 40 weeks. A quadratic regression equation was FH (cm) = −19.7882 + 2.438157 GA (wk) − 0.0262178 GA2 (wk) (R-squared = 0.85). Conclusions. A demographically specific FH growth curve may be an appropriate tool for monitoring and screening abnormal intrauterine growth.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/05/5c/PMC3649359.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2712772", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE Homocysteinemia may play an etiologic role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes by promoting oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. We investigated whether homocysteine-lowering treatment by B vitamin supplementation prevents the risk of type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The Women's Antioxidant and Folic Acid Cardiovascular Study (WAFACS), a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 5,442 female health professionals aged ≥40 years with a history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or three or more CVD risk factors, included 4,252 women free of diabetes at baseline. Participants were randomly assigned to either an active treatment group (daily intake of a combination pill of 2.5 mg folic acid, 50 mg vitamin B6, and 1 mg vitamin B12) or to the placebo group. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 7.3 years, 504 women had an incident diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Overall, there was no significant difference between the active treatment group and the placebo group in diabetes risk (relative risk 0.94 [95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/08/a2/zdb1921.PMC2712772.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4530253", "abstract": "In the present research work, the levels of protein biomarkers specific to diabetes mellitus type 2 in the Pakistani population using proteomic technology have been identified and characterized and effect of high dose thiamine has been seen on the levels of these marker proteins. Diabetic patients and normal healthy controls were recruited from the Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. Total biochemical assays and proteins were estimated by modern proteomic techniques. Some proteins were up- and downregulated in diabetic samples as compared to control and decreased after thiamine therapy, while other protein markers did not show a significant change after the thiamine therapy. The effect of high dose thiamine on the levels of these identified protein biomarkers in the human urine has also been observed. Assessment of the levels of these biomarkers will be helpful in not only early diagnosis but also prognosis of diabetes mellitus type 2.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/60/96/PMC4530253.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4175245", "abstract": "[Purpose] To evaluate the oxidative stress parameters and urinary deoxypyridinoline levels in geriatric patients with osteoporosis. [Subjects and Methods] Eighty geriatric patients aged over 65 years were recruited. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n=40) consisted of patients with osteoporosis, and Group 2 (n=40) consisted of patients without osteoporosis. Bone mineral density measurements were performed for all patients using DEXA. Oxidative stress parameters were analyzed in blood samples, and deoxypyridinoline levels were analyzed in 24-hour urinary samples. [Results] Compared to Group 2, the total antioxidant status and oxidative stress index levels of Group 1 were not significantly different; however, total oxidant status and 24-hour urinary deoxypyridinoline levels were significantly higher. Pearson correlation coefficients indicated that OSI and urinary deoxypyridinoline levels were not correlated with any biochemical parameters. ROC-curve analysis revealed that urinary deoxypyridinoline levels over 30.80 mg/ml predicted osteoporosis with 67", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6d/78/jpts-26-1405.PMC4175245.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4074723", "abstract": "Introduction The inguinal approach to the distal part of the ureter allows the surgeon to perform various types of procedures and is considered to be one of the minimally invasive techniques in pediatric surgery. We aim to describe our initial experience with the surgery of the distal ureter performed through an inguinal mini–incision. Material and methods Between March 2012 and June 2013, 8 patients were treated using a minimally invasive inguinal technique. The indications for surgical correction were single system primary obstructive megaureter, obstructive megaureter of the upper pole in a duplex kidney and distal ureteral stones. In all patients with single system obstructive megaureter and significant hydronephrosis, ureterocutaneostomy was performed. In one patient with duplex system primary obstructive megaureter and significant hydronephrosis of the upper pole, ureteroureterostomy of the dilated ureter to the normal caliber ureter in the distal part was performed. In the second patient with duplex system primary obstructive megaureter and reduced marker excretion of the upper pole in renal scintigraphy, ureterocutaneostomy was performed. In both cases of distal ureteral stones, deposits were removed by a simple incision. Results We did not observe any perioperative or postoperative complications. The imaging studies have shown that ureteral dilatation decreased in all but one child in whom the upper pole and the ureter were resected due to lack of function. Conclusions The inguinal approach allows for the adequate visualization of the distal ureter, creating the conditions for implementation of the various procedures, reduces the risk of retrovesical plexus injury and minimizes visible scars.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d8/2a/CEJU-67-00342.PMC4074723.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4744636", "abstract": "Background: Some studies reported an association between low levels of vitamin D and the risk of infections, especially viral infections. Kidney transplant patients are at risk of opportunistic infections; however, no study has been conducted on the association between vitamin D levels and the risk of CMV infection. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the level of vitamin D in two groups of patients with and without CMV infection within four months after the transplantation. Moreover, we aimed to find a relation between vitamin D level, before and after transplantation in each group. Patients and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted in Baqiyatallah hospital in Tehran in 2013. A total of 82 kidney transplant patients were enrolled and vitamin D levels were measured in them before transplantation. The kidney transplant patients had been followed up for four months and monitored for the presence of cytomegalovirus antigen (CMV Ag) in their blood. In patients with positive CMV Ag, vitamin D level was measured again when they became positive but in other patients it was measured at the end of follow-up; at the end, characteristics of patients and vitamin D levels were compared between the two groups. Results: Of all, 40 patients were CMV Ag positive and 42 patients were negative. In most patients transplanted organs were taken from cadaver (66", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/81/d4/num-07-06-29677.PMC4744636.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5422758", "abstract": "Background To report an unusual case of subperiosteal bleeding of nontraumatic etiology. Case Description A 48-year-old female presented with an acute protrusion of the left eye after nonaccomplished suicide by means of asphyxia using a cable around the neck. At the time of presentation, the MRI showed an orbital subperiosteal hematoma causing an exophthalmos. After conservative treatment, there was a complete remission of the lesion. Conclusion Nontraumatic subperiosteal bleedings without involvement of the intraocular structures and no vision-threatening intraorbital changes should be treated conservatively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/23/cop-0008-0232.PMC5422758.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5360373", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to evaluate cooling rates of The Polar Life Pod®, a military protocol and cold water immersion. A randomized, repeated measures design was used to compare three treatment options. Participants exercised in an environmental chamber, where they followed a military march protocol on a treadmill, followed by the application of one of three treatments: Cold water immersion tub (5 – 10 °C), Polar Life Pod® (5 – 10 °C), Ice sheets at onset (5 – 10 °C). Mean cooling rate for CWI was 0.072 ºC/min, 0.046ºC/min for ice sheets, and 0.040ºC/min for The Polar Life Pod®. There was a significant difference between conditions (F2,26=13.564, p=0.001, ES=0.511, 1-β=0.969). There was a significant difference in cooling rate among The Polar Life Pod® and CWI (p = 0.006), and no significant difference among The Polar Life Pod® and Ice Sheets (p = 0.103). There was a significant difference of time to cool among the three conditions F2,26 = 13.564, p = 0.001, ES = 0.401, 1-β = 0.950. Our results support multiple organizations that deem CWI as the only acceptable treatment, when compared to the cooling rates of The Polar Life Pod® and ice sheets.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/78/f2/PMC5360373.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3059818", "abstract": "We present preliminary data on mitochondrial DNA diversity within and among populations of the ants Lasius niger and Lasius platythorax in Poland. Phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial DNA markers: cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) and 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) confirms the species status of L. niger and L. platythorax. Intraspecific variability is low in both species, which might be a result of severe bottlenecks and rapid postglacial expansion into Central Europe.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/fa/40_2010_Article_135.PMC3059818.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4285034", "abstract": "Glucose homeostasis is tightly controlled by the regulation of glucose production in the liver and glucose uptake into peripheral tissues, such as skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Under prolonged fasting, hepatic gluconeogenesis is mainly responsible for glucose production in the liver, which is essential for tissues, organs, and cells, such as skeletal muscle, the brain, and red blood cells. Hepatic gluconeogenesis is controlled in part by the concerted actions of transcriptional regulators. Fasting signals are relayed by various intracellular enzymes, such as kinases, phosphatases, acetyltransferases, and deacetylases, which affect the transcriptional activity of transcription factors and transcriptional coactivators for gluconeogenic genes. Protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) were recently added to the list of enzymes that are critical for regulating transcription in hepatic gluconeogenesis. In this review, we briefly discuss general aspects of PRMTs in the control of transcription. More specifically, we summarize the roles of four PRMTs: PRMT1, PRMT 4, PRMT 5, and PRMT 6, in the control of hepatic gluconeogenesis through specific regulation of FoxO1- and CREB-dependent transcriptional events.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/c5/enm-29-435.PMC4285034.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4235509", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the keratometric and pachymetric parameters of keratoconic corneas of Asian eyes with the Scheimpflug imaging camera. Patients and methods This is a cross-sectional study of 22 eyes with Amsler-Krumeich stage 1 keratoconus and 48 eyes from normal subjects conducted in a tertiary eye hospital. A rotating Scheimpflug imaging system, the Pentacam, was used to evaluate all eyes for tomographic parameters, as well as pachymetric progression indices (PPI) and Ambrósio relational thickness (ART). Results All PPI and ART parameter values were significantly different between study and control groups. Cornea minimum radius of curvature, absolute distance from corneal apex to thinnest location, as well as the distance from corneal apex to thinnest location in Y-axis also demonstrated statistically significant differences. The mean ART values for keratoconus eyes were 241 μm (ART-maximum) and 352 μm (ART-average), falling within previously reported best cutoff values for detecting keratoconus. On receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, the area under the curve values were highest for PPI and ART parameters. Conclusion There are significant differences in tomographic parameters between stage 1 keratoconic and normal Asian eyes. Pachymetric indices such as the PPI and the ART index can serve as additional tools in differentiating keratoconic from normal eyes. The findings validate the usefulness of the ART in identifying keratoconic eyes in Asians.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/36/0c/opth-8-2215.PMC4235509.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3238543", "abstract": "Traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients typically respond more slowly and with more variability than controls during tasks of attention requiring speeded reaction time. These behavioral changes are attributable, at least in part, to diffuse axonal injury (DAI), which affects integrated processing in distributed systems. Here we use a multivariate method sensitive to distributed neural activity to compare brain activity patterns of patients with chronic phase moderate to-severe TBI to those of controls during performance on a visual feature integration task assessing complex attentional processes that has previously shown sensitivity to TBI. The TBI patients were carefully screened to be free of large focal lesions that can affect performance and brain activation independently of DAI. The task required subjects to hold either one or three features of a Target in mind while suppressing responses to distracting information. In controls, the multi-feature condition activated a distributed network including limbic, prefrontal, and medial temporal structures. TBI patients engaged this same network in the single-feature and baseline conditions. In multi-feature presentations, TBI patients alone activated additional frontal, parietal, and occipital regions. These results are consistent with neuroimaging studies using tasks assessing different cognitive domains, where increased spread of brain activity changes was associated with TBI. Our results also extend previous findings that brain activity for relatively moderate task demands in TBI patients is similar to that associated with of high task demands in controls.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/94/c5/fnhum-05-00164.PMC3238543.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4480400", "abstract": "Plasmodium falciparum resistance to artemisinin derivatives is emerging in Asia. We examined molecular markers of resistance in 78 children in Uganda who had severe malaria and were treated with intravenous artesunate. We observed in the K13-propeller domain, A578S, a low-frequency (3/78), nonsynonymous, single-nucleotide polymorphism associated with prolonged parasite clearance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/be/f9/PMC4480400.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3167330", "abstract": "We analyzed the effect of cadmium on corticotropic (ACTH) and prolactin (PRL) cells in the pituitary gland of the Podarcis sicula (P. sicula) lizard under chronic exposure to this metal. Adult lizards were given CdCl2 in drinking water at the dose of 10 µg/10 g body mass for 120 days. Light microscopy was performed after histological and immunohistochemical staining, and the effects were followed at regular time intervals up to 120 days post-treatment. We detected substantial variations in the general morphology of the pituitary: unlike the control lizards in which the gland appeared compact, the treated lizards showed a glandular tissue with dilated spaces that were more extensive at 90 and 120 days. PRL and ACTH cells showed an increase in occurrence and immunostaining intensity in treated lizards in comparison with the same cells of control animals. This cellular increase peaked for PRL at 30 days in the rostral, medial and also caudal pars distalis of the gland. ACTH cells appeared to increase markedly after 60 days of treatment in both the pars distalis and the pars intermedia. Again, at 60 days small, isolated ACTH cells were also found in the caudal pars distalis in which these cells were generally absent. However, at 120 days both these cellular types showed an occurrence, distribution and morphology similar to those observed in the control lizards. In lizards, protracted oral exposure to cadmium evidently involves an alteration of the normal morphology of the gland and an inhibitory effect of ACTH and PRL cells, since they increase in occurrence and immunostaining. Yet in time the inhibitory effect of cadmium on ACTH and PRL cells falls back and their occurrence appears similar to that of the control lizard.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0f/8b/PMC3167330.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5398300", "abstract": "We report an elderly male patient with hyperammonemia induced by intrahepatic portal-systemic shunt without cirrhosis (IPSSwoC). The occasional emergence of his erratic behaviors was misdiagnosed as a psychiatric disorder. Regardless of his uneven symptoms, IPSSwoC was suspected due to his hyperammonemia. The contrast computed tomography of the abdomen revealed a congenital type of IPSSwoC. As blood ammonia levels are inconstant, repeated blood tests are recommended when this disease is suspected in elderly patients with psychiatric symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/22/10.1177_1179066017693597.PMC5398300.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5047016", "abstract": "Background In order to examine the optimal weight gain during pregnancy in Japanese women, we analyzed the perinatal outcomes in Japanese women with the optimal range of weight gain during pregnancy according to the Japanese (the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare: JMHLW and the Japan Society for the Study of Obesity: JASSO) guidelines compared with those according to the USA (the Institute of Medicine: IOM) guideline. Methods We compared the obstetric outcomes in two groups of gestational weight gain within the optimal range based on the IOM and Japanese guidelines in women of pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) categories of underweight, normal, overweight and obese. Results In the underweight and normal-weight women, the incidences of preterm delivery and low-birth-weight infant in the JMHLW group were significantly higher than those in the IOM group; however, the incidence of some other perinatal complications in the JMHLW group was significantly lower than that in the IOM group. In the overweight women, the incidences of preterm delivery and low-birth-weight infant in the JSSO group were significantly higher than those in the IOM group; however, there were no significant differences in the obstetric outcomes between the obese women in the JSSO and IOM groups. Conclusion Based on the current results, we should be more tolerant for the weight gain during pregnancy in Japanese woman than ever, especially in overweight women.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/80/jocmr-08-787.PMC5047016.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897191", "abstract": "A simple and sensitive reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method has been developed for the determination of catechin and epicatechin in cocoa powder and chocolates. The separation was achieved on a reversed phase C 18 column (TARGA) 5 μm by gradient elution with a flow rate of 1.0 mL/minute with an operating temperature of 30°C and detection with a UV-Visible detector was at 280 nm. The method was validated for linearity, precision, intra- and interday precision, and accuracy. The developed method is successfully applied for the determination of catechin and epicatechin content in chocolates. The Godiva brand chocolate contains high concentration of epicatechin.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/84/PMC4897191.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3493085", "abstract": "Many patients with prostate cancer have disease recurrence following surgical removal of tumors and fail to respond to androgen ablation therapy. Despite the existence of a number of clinical/pathological factors, it is not possible to predict which patients will fall into this category. The results of our previous studies demonstrated that the HOXB13 homeodomain protein plays a key role in the development of prostate cancer and the progression of this malignancy. In addition, HOXB13 has been reported to predict estrogen-resistant breast cancer tumors. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether HOXB13 could be used as a molecular marker to predict prostate cancer recurrence. To examine the role of HOXB13 as a molecular marker with clinical/pathological data, the expression of HOXB13 was compared using immunohistochemistry in 57 organ-confined prostate cancer tumors obtained by radical prostatectomy. There was no significant correlation between the expression of HOXB13 and most clinical/pathological parameters, including tumor margin, invasion, pathological stage and risk level. The HOXB13 expression levels correlated with the Gleason score and there was a positive correlation with the pre-operative prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels. Accordingly, the tumor specimens from 4 patients who ultimately had biochemical failure (PSA >0.2 ng/ml), all showed a high expression of HOXB13, while their risk levels were either intermediate or high. This is the first study to report that HOXB13, together with other clinical/pathological factors, can be used as a molecular marker to predict the progression of prostate cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/58/49/PMC3493085.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4864141", "abstract": "Abstract Background A number of advanced cancer patients are suffering from physical and psychosocial burdens because of cancer cachexia, and these burdens also greatly impact on their family members and relationships between patients and family members. It is necessary to consider the psychosocial impact of cancer cachexia on family members of advanced cancer patients. Methods A cross‐sectional anonymous nationwide survey was conducted involving 925 bereaved family members of cancer patients who had been admitted to 133 inpatient hospices throughout Japan. Results A total of 702 bereaved family members returned the questionnaires (response rate, 75.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ed/6d/JCSM-7-527.PMC4864141.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4353876", "abstract": "Fanconi-Bickel Syndrome (FBS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of carbohydrate metabolism. The defect in the GLUT 2 receptors in the hepatocytes, pancreas and renal tubules leads to symptoms secondary to glycogen storage, glucose metabolism and renal tubular dysfunction. Derangement in glucose metabolism is classical with fasting hypoglycemia and post-prandial hyperglycemia. The authors report a 4-year-old boy who presented with failure to thrive, motor delay, protuberant abdomen and was noted to have huge hepatomegaly with glycogen deposition in liver, and renal tubular acidosis. Gene sequencing revealed homozygous mutation, c.1330T > C in SLC2A2 gene, thus confirming the diagnosis of FBS. Only three mutations have been reported from India so far. The primary reason for referral to authors’ hospital was for liver transplantation, but an accurate diagnosis led to avoidance of the major surgery and streamlining of treatment with clinical benefit to the child and family.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2d/97/PMC4353876.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3170790", "abstract": "Ectopic cell cycle events (CCEs) in postmitotic neurons link the neurodegenerative process in human Alzheimer's disease (AD) with the brain phenotype of transgenic mouse models with known familial AD genes. Most reports on the mouse models use the appearance of brain amyloid pathology as a key outcome measure. In the current paper, we focus on the induction of neurodegeneration using CCEs as markers for impending neuronal loss. We compare 5 mouse models of familial AD for the appearance of CCEs in subcortical regions—deep cerebellar nuclei, amygdala, locus coeruleus, hippocampus, and dorsal raphe. We find that the models differ in their CCE involvement as well as in the appearance of phosphorylated tau and amyloid deposition, suggesting that each model represents a different disease phenotype. Comparison with the pattern of neuron death in human AD suggests that each may represent a distinctly different disease model when used in preclinical trials.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b1/14/PMC3170790.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3277616", "abstract": "MicroRNAs, small non-coding RNAs, may act as tumor suppressors or oncogenes, and each regulate their own transcription and that of hundreds of genes, often in a tissue-dependent manner. This creates a tightly interwoven network regulating and underlying oncogenesis and cancer biology. Although protein-coding gene signatures and single protein pathway markers have proliferated over the past decade, routine adoption of the former has been hampered by interpretability, reproducibility, and dimensionality, whereas the single molecule–phenotype reductionism of the latter is often overly simplistic to account for complex phenotypes. MicroRNA-derived biomarkers offer a powerful alternative; they have both the flexibility of gene expression signature classifiers and the desirable mechanistic transparency of single protein biomarkers. Furthermore, several advances have recently demonstrated the robust detection of microRNAs from various biofluids, thus providing an additional opportunity for obtaining bioinformatically derived biomarkers to accelerate the identification of individual patients for personalized therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/9c/amiajnl-2011-000419.PMC3277616.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5088557", "abstract": "A 42-year-old Japanese woman with a 10-year history of schizophrenia was admitted due to a disturbance in consciousness that met the diagnostic criteria for both neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and malignant catatonia. Despite systemic supportive treatments, the catatonic symptoms preceding autonomic symptoms persisted. The symptoms improved after lorazepam administration, leading to a retrospective diagnosis of malignant catatonia. Catatonia is thought to be caused by a dysfunction of ganmma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors in the cortico-cortical networks of the frontal lobes, which causes hypoactivity of the dopaminergic transmission in the subcortical areas. Identifying the catatonic symptoms preceding autonomic symptoms could aid in distinguishing malignant catatonia from NMS. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c8/fd/1349-7235-55-2893.PMC5088557.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3658209", "abstract": "Lung cancer does not generally produce any symptoms at the early stages and it rapidly metastasizes. Although lung cancer has a potential of metastasis to all organs and tissues, metastasis to the penis from lung cancer is very rare. We present a case with a penile lesion as the first sign of lung cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/49/34/PMC3658209.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2716884", "abstract": "Several large observational, longitudinal studies of the natural history of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) have demonstrated that high levels of hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication are associated with long-term risk of cirrhosis, decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver-related mortality. The corollary is also true—profound and sustained suppression either spontaneously or during antiviral therapy will prevent disease progression and complications. Multiple analyses of various baseline factors and on-treatment responses have identified the absolute HBV DNA level after 24 weeks of therapy as the best predictor of long-term efficacy. Lower 24-week serum HBV DNA levels after lamivudine, telbivudine, or entecavir are associated with higher rates of maintained HBV DNA nondetectability, ALT normalization, HBeAg seroconversion, and lack of resistance. Patients with undetectable serum HBV DNA levels after 24 weeks have the best long-term outcomes while those with levels remaining above 10,000 copies per ml are unlikely to benefit from long-term therapy with that particular agent and either the addition or switch to another antiviral agent with increased potency but without cross resistance could be considered at this time point. In the future, improved on-treatment monitoring should facilitate treatment strategies to optimize long-term outcomes among patients receiving oral antiviral therapy for CHB.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/28/PMC2716884.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4909842", "abstract": "Mucormycoses are high-mortality infections feared by clinicians worldwide. They predominantly affect immunocompromised hosts and are associated with a spectrum of disease. We describe a case of cutaneous mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus oryzae in a patient with multiple risk factors cured with complete surgical excision and a short course of antifungal therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c7/25/main.PMC4909842.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4834016", "abstract": "Objective: The objective was to provide a brief history of J wave syndromes and to summarize our current understanding of their molecular, ionic, cellular mechanisms, and clinical features. We will also discuss the existing debates and further direction in basic and clinical research for J wave syndromes. Data Sources: The publications on key words of “J wave syndromes”, “early repolarization syndrome (ERS)”, “Brugada syndrome (BrS)” and “ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)” were comprehensively reviewed through search of the PubMed literatures without restriction on the publication date. Study Selection: Original articles, reviews and other literatures concerning J wave syndromes, ERS, BrS and STEMI were selected. Results: J wave syndromes were firstly defined by Yan et al. in a Chinese journal a decade ago, which represent a spectrum of variable phenotypes characterized by appearance of prominent electrocardiographic J wave including ERS, BrS and ventricular fibrillation (VF) associated with hypothermia and acute STEMI. J wave syndromes can be inherited or acquired and are mechanistically linked to amplification of the transient outward current (Ito)-mediated J waves that can lead to phase 2 reentry capable of initiating VF. Conclusions: J wave syndromes are a group of newly highlighted clinical entities that share similar molecular, ionic and cellular mechanism and marked by amplified J wave on the electrocardiogram and a risk of VF. The clinical challenge ahead is to identify the patients with J wave syndromes who are at risk for sudden cardiac death and determine the alternative therapeutic strategies to reduce mortality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/64/0f/CMJ-128-969.PMC4834016.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC411059", "abstract": "Background Coping strategies have, in some countries, become so prevalent that it has been widely assumed that the very notion of civil services ethos has completely – and possibly irreversibly – disappeared. This paper describes the importance and the nature of pilfering of drugs by health staff in Mozambique and Cape Verde, as perceived by health professionals from these countries. Their opinions provide pointers as to how to tackle these problems. Methods This study is based on a self-administered questionnaire addressed to a convenience sample of health workers in Mozambique and in Cape Verde. Results The study confirms that misuse of access to pharmaceuticals has become a key element in the coping strategies health personnel develop to deal with difficult living conditions. Different professional groups (mis)use their privileged access in different ways, but doctors diversify most. The study identifies the reasons given for misusing access to drugs, shows how the problem is perceived by the health workers, and discusses the implications for finding solutions to the problem. Our findings reflect, from the health workers themselves, a conflict between their self image of what it means to be an honest civil servant who wants to do a decent job, and the brute facts of life that make them betray that image. The manifest unease that this provokes is an important observation as such. Conclusion Our findings suggest that, even in the difficult circumstances observed in many countries, behaviours that depart from traditional civil servant deontology have not been interiorised as a norm. This ambiguity indicates that interventions to mitigate the erosion of proper conduct would be welcome. The time to act is now, before small-scale individual coping grows into large-scale, well-organized crime.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4c/2b/PMC411059.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4369945", "abstract": " Introduction. The burden of tuberculosis is high in eastern Malaysia, and rates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis drug resistance are poorly defined. Our objectives were to determine M. tuberculosis susceptibility and document management after receipt of susceptibility results. Methods. Prospective study of adult outpatients with smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in Sabah, Malaysia. Additionally, hospital clinicians accessed the reference laboratory for clinical purposes during the study. Results. 176 outpatients were enrolled; 173 provided sputum samples. Mycobacterial culture yielded M. tuberculosis in 159 (91.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0e/55/PMC4369945.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3038678", "abstract": "This study investigated a potential independent association between hypovitaminosis D and suspected nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a nationally representative sample of the US adolescents.  Data from 1630 subjects 12–19 years of age were examined using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2001–2004. The vitamin D status of subjects was categorized into quartiles of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Subjects with serum ALT > 30 U/L were classified as having suspected NAFLD.  Data regarding age, sex, race, BMI, and poverty level were also analyzed in bivariate and multivariate analyses using SAS and SUDAAN software. Suspected NAFLD was identified in 12.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/d8/PMC3038678.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3317051", "abstract": "Nonviral cationic polymers like chitosan can be combined with DNA to protect it from degradation. The chitosan is a biocompatible, biodegradable, nontoxic, and cheap polycationic polymer with low immunogenicity. The objective of this study was to synthesize and then assess different chitosan-DNA nanoparticles and to select the best ones for selective in vitro transfection in human epidermoid carcinoma (KB) cell lines. It revealed that different combinations of molecular weight, the presence or absence of folic acid ligand, and different plasmid DNA sizes can lead to nanoparticles with various diameters and diverse transfection efficiencies. The intracellular trafficking, nuclear uptake, and localization are also studied by confocal microscopy, which confirmed that DNA was delivered to cell nuclei to be expressed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/de/3e/PMC3317051.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4192931", "abstract": "Through analysis of data from the universal health insurance system in Manitoba, Canada, surgical diagnosis-related groups (DRG's) with the greatest potential for inpatient-outpatient substitution are identified. Candidates for both “inpatient shift” and “outpatient shift” are discussed. It is also suggested that determination of the procedure chiefly responsible for hospital admission complements approaches to improve the DRG classification system by measuring severity of illness. Thus, health care planners' efforts may be facilitated in establishing effective payment systems, though definitive guidelines are not provided.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/b5/PMC4192931.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4959839", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the relationships between RPE, photoreceptor, and choroidal degeneration in choroideremia. Methods Enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT), scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), and autofluorescence (AF) were performed on 39 patients (78 eyes) with choroideremia. The edges of surviving outer retina on OCT and residual AF were aligned. The distribution of outer retinal tubulations was mapped over a range of ages (16–71 years), and comparison made between pre- and postsubretinal gene therapy. Subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) was compared between 23 choroideremia patients (42 eyes) and 20 age- and refraction-matched male controls (40 eyes). Results The edges of RPE AF aligned with a reduction in outer nuclear layer thickness (Spearman's rho = 0.9992). Correlation was also found between the quality of AF and integrity of ellipsoid zone within islands of surviving retina. Tubulations existed in 71 of 78 (91", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/6e/i1552-5783-57-8-3674.PMC4959839.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2924560", "abstract": "Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) on erectile function. Materials and Methods A total of 108 patients treated with TURP were retrospectively evaluated. All patients were evaluated 1, 3, and 6 months after TURP by use of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), peak urinary flow rate (Qmax), and post-void residual urine (PVR). Results One and 3 months after TURP, the erectile function domain score of the IIEF was significantly decreased. However, after 6 months, there was no longer a significant decrease in the erectile function domain score. The change in erectile function was compared with the IPSS score. There was no statistically significant correlation, but patients who had better voiding symptoms after TURP had improved erectile function. Conclusions Our study showed that there was a significant decrease in erectile function for 3 months after TURP. However, no significant change in erectile function was observed 6 months after TURP.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/5d/kju-51-557.PMC2924560.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4099258", "abstract": " Background. Obesity contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. We, therefore, aimed to provide epidemiological data on the prevalence of obesity in Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Methodology. Data were collected during cross-sectional survey which included 5000 Saudi selected from 30 primary health care centers (PHCs) in Hail Region. Results. The overall prevalence of obesity in Hail was 63.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/59/PMC4099258.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3855220", "abstract": "Haemosuccus pancreaticus (HP) is a rare life-threatening cause of intermittent upper Gastrointestinal bleeding. We report the first documented case of HP due to bleeding from aberrant vessels originating from the coeliac trunk feeding the head of the pancreas. Our patient underwent initial surgery and subsequent angio-embolization. This case report describes the challenges faced during the diagnosis and treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/3e/rjs013.PMC3855220.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4975567", "abstract": "Introduction: Advances in health policy, research, and information technology have converged to increase the electronic collection and use of patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Therefore, it is important to share lessons learned in implementing PROs in research information systems. Case Description: The purpose of this case study is to describe a novel information system for electronic PROs and lessons learned in implementing that system to support research in an academic health center. The system incorporates freely available and commercial software and involves clinical and research workflows that support the collection, transformation, and research use of PRO data. The software and processes that comprise the system serve three main functions, (i) collecting electronic PROs in clinical care, (ii) integrating PRO data with non-patient generated clinical data, and (iii) disseminating data to researchers through the institution’s research informatics infrastructure, including the i2b2 (Informatics for Integrating Biology and the Bedside) system. Strategies: Our successful design and implementation was driven by three overarching strategies. First, we selected and implemented multiple interfaced technologies to support PRO collection, management, and research use. Second, we aimed to use standardized approaches to measuring PROs, sending PROs between systems, and disseminating PROs. Finally, we focused on using technologies and processes that aligned with existing clinical research information management strategies within our organization. Conclusion: These experiences and lessons may help future implementers and researchers enhance the scale and sustainable use of systems for research use of PROs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/39/egems1240.PMC4975567.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4807043", "abstract": " Objective. To investigate the relationship between NLRP3 and the pathogenesis of collagen-induced arthritis. Methods. We used the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model. The mice were divided into two groups: the model group (CIA, n = 16) and the control group (Normal, n = 8). The mice were sacrificed seven weeks after immunization. The arthritis score and imaging evaluation (X-rays, Micro-CT, and MRI) were performed. Synovial tissue NLRP3 expression and peripheral blood cytokine levels were analyzed. Results. The arthritis score (6.00 ± 2.52), imaging score (4.63 ± 0.92), and synovial tissue NLRP3 expression (4.00 ± 2.03) significantly increased in the CIA mice. The expression of synovial NLRP3 was positively correlated with arthritis clinical and radiographic scores (r = 0.792 and r = 0.669, resp.). Conclusions. The synovial NLRP3 expression increased at the early onset of RA. Synovial NLRP3 expression level was correlated with the clinical arthritis severity and extent of radiological destruction, suggesting that NLRP3 is involved in the pathogenesis of RA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/9d/PMC4807043.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3725803", "abstract": " Background. The notion that diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of renal fibrosis prompted us to investigate the effects of blood glucose fluctuation (BGF) under high glucose condition on kidney in the mice. Methods. The diabetic and BGF animal models were established in this study. Immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and RT-PCR analysis were applied to detect the expression of type I collagen, matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1), metalloproteinase inhibitor 1 (TIMP1), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), phosphorylated-ERK, p38, smad2/3, and Akt. Results. BGF treatment increased type I collagen synthesis by two times compared with the control. The expression of MMP1 was reduced markedly while TIMP1 synthesis was enhanced after BGF treatment. ERK phosphorylation exhibits a significant increase in the mice treated with BGF. Furthermore, BGF can markedly upregulate TGF-β1 expression. The p-smad2 showed 2-fold increases compared with the only diabetic mice. However, p-AKT levels were unchanged after BGF treatment. Conclusions. These data demonstrate that BGF can accelerate the trend of kidney fibrosis in diabetic mice by increasing collagen production and inhibiting collagen degradation. Both ERK/MAPK and TGF-β/smad signaling pathways seem to play a role in the development of kidney fibrosis accelerated by blood glucose fluctuation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/72/52/PMC3725803.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4003829", "abstract": " Aim. To confirm the efficacy and tolerability of ziprasidone as adjunctive therapy in bipolar patients partially responding to clozapine or with persisting negative symptoms, overweight, or with metabolic syndrome. Methods. Eight patients with psychotic bipolar disorder were tested with the BPRS, the HAM-D, and the CGI at T0 and retested after 2 weeks (T1). Plasma clozapine and norclozapine levels and BMI were tested at T0 and T1. Results. Ziprasidone was well tolerated by all the patients. BPRS and HAM-D scores were reduced in all patients. BMI was reduced in patients with a BMI at T0 higher than 25. Plasma levels of clozapine and norclozapine showed an irregular course.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/87/ed/PMC4003829.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4479767", "abstract": "Background: A short-term study was undertaken with an objective to demonstrate the therapeutic benefit resulting from the use of Metronidazole sponges combined with and without mechanical debridement to mechanical treatment alone in the treatment of periodontal pockets in chronic periodontitis. Materials and Methods: The study compared the plaque index, gingival index, sulcus bleeding index and probing pocket depth in twenty control sites that received superficial scaling and root planing without the local drug delivery with experimental site A (20 sites that received local drug delivery (5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1e/3e/JIOH-7-18.PMC4479767.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4882463", "abstract": "This study investigated the energy expenditure (EE) and substrate utilization reflected by the respiratory-exchange ratio (RER) during and after resistance exercises performed with different muscle mass. Ten male volunteers (mean±SD; 26±4yr, 179±6cm, 77±8kg) performed multiple sets of the horizontal leg press (LP) and chest fly (CF) (5 sets of 10 repetitions with 15 repetition-maximum, 1-minute between-set intervals) in a counterbalanced design. Oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide production were measured during 40 minutes of resting; resistance exercise protocols (sets and intervals); 90 minutes of post-exercise recovery. Total fat and carbohydrate oxidation rates were calculated according to the non-protein respiratory quotient. Both exercise conditions elicited net excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) of similar duration (approximately 40min). The EPOC magnitude at 40 minutes was greater after LP than after CF (7.36±1.10L vs. 4.73±0.99L; P<0.001). The RER was higher in LP (1.30±0.04) than CF (1.16±0.05, P=0.0003) during exercise. During recovery the RER was similar in LP and CF (P>0.05) and lower than pre-exercise (Pre-exercise=0.78±0.04 vs. CF40min=0.74±0.04; CF90min=0.68±0.02 and LP50min=0.73±0.06; LP90min=0.65±0.04, P<0.05). However, fat oxidation after LP was greater than CF between 30–90 minutes of recovery (mean total fat oxidation: LP=10.9 g vs. CF=8.4 g; P<0.01). The increases of EE and fat oxidation during post-exercise recovery were greater after multiple sets of resistance exercises performed with larger muscle mass than smaller muscle mass. This finding has practical implications for resistance training designed as part of weight management programs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/06/PMC4882463.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4524305", "abstract": "Background: Adolescence is a critical developmental stage marked by complex transitions. The purpose of study was to assess school adolescents’ PWB, examine the relationship of PA and socio-demographic factors with PWB. Methods: A cross sectional study conducted in five randomly selected schools with 345 adolescents (aged 12–18) from grade 6th–10th. A self-administered Well-Being index was adapted to measure PWB and questionnaire for adolescents PA (PAQ-A). Socio-demographic variables determined: age, gender, household income and parental education. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses performed to examine the association between PWB, PA and covariates. Results: Findings indicated the mean age 14.64 (SD=1.275), 55.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/1f/PMC4524305.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3008288", "abstract": "Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of a multimodal intervention (including the Women’s Wellness Program) on increasing levels of physical activity in Iranian midlife women. Study design: This 12-week study was conducted in women aged 50–65 years living in the general population. Women who were allocated to the intervention group (n = 40) received an intervention, which combined a multimodal program of physical activity and health education. Women in the control group continued their normal physical activities (n = 45). Mean outcome measure: The women completed a questionnaire that included measures for items of interest for this analysis, such as menopausal status, sociodemographic, and exercise and activity levels. Results: Analysis of covariance indicated that the intervention was effective in improving women’s physical activity. The test showed that there was a significant difference between intervention and control in current vigorous activity. Conclusion: Physical activity should be encouraged for prevention and reduction of risks for chronic disease and for improvement of health in midlife women. The multimodal intervention program may offer implications for designing and implementing exercise interventions in further studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/63/59/PMC3008288.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3108661", "abstract": "Purpose: This paper reviews the clinical course of a case of severe Crohn’s disease and discusses the scientific ramifications of a novel treatment approach. Patients and methods: A case study of a 37-year-old male with a 22-year history of Crohn’s disease whose clinical course had experienced no sustained remissions. The patient was treated with a protocol that utilized serotonin and dopamine amino acid precursors administered under the guidance of organic cation transporter assay interpretation. Results: Within 5 days of achieving the necessary balance of serotonin and dopamine, the patient experienced remission of symptoms. This remission has been sustained without the use of any Crohn’s disease medications. Conclusion: In Crohn’s disease, it is known that there is an increase of both synthesis and tissue levels of serotonin in specific locations. It is asserted that this is prima facie evidence of a significant imbalance in the serotonin–dopamine system, leading to serotonin toxicity. The hypothesis formulated is that improperly balanced serotonin and dopamine transport, synthesis, and metabolism is a primary defect contributing to the pathogenesis of Crohn’s disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/b5/PMC3108661.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3898141", "abstract": "The Human Gene Mutation Database (HGMD®) is a comprehensive collection of germline mutations in nuclear genes that underlie, or are associated with, human inherited disease. By June 2013, the database contained over 141,000 different lesions detected in over 5,700 different genes, with new mutation entries currently accumulating at a rate exceeding 10,000 per annum. HGMD was originally established in 1996 for the scientific study of mutational mechanisms in human genes. However, it has since acquired a much broader utility as a central unified disease-oriented mutation repository utilized by human molecular geneticists, genome scientists, molecular biologists, clinicians and genetic counsellors as well as by those specializing in biopharmaceuticals, bioinformatics and personalized genomics. The public version of HGMD (http://www.hgmd.org) is freely available to registered users from academic institutions/non-profit organizations whilst the subscription version (HGMD Professional) is available to academic, clinical and commercial users under license via BIOBASE GmbH.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9f/e8/PMC3898141.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4366954", "abstract": "This article overviews currently available options for rewarding peer reviewers. Rewards and incentives may help maintain the quality and integrity of scholarly publications. Publishers around the world implemented a variety of financial and nonfinancial mechanisms for incentivizing their best reviewers. None of these is proved effective on its own. A strategy of combined rewards and credits for the reviewers1 creative contributions seems a workable solution. Opening access to reviews and assigning publication credits to the best reviews is one of the latest achievements of digitization. Reviews, posted on academic networking platforms, such as Publons, add to the transparency of the whole system of peer review. Reviewer credits, properly counted and displayed on individual digital profiles, help distinguish the best contributors, invite them to review and offer responsible editorial posts.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f6/6e/jkms-30-360.PMC4366954.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4701117", "abstract": "Introduction: Alendronate is the most popular bisphosphonate used to prevent fragility fracture of postmenopausal osteoporosis. There is common belief among physicians that Alendronates are very safe without many side effects and they continue it for long time. Recent papers have shown that, some patients who are on this drug from a long period suffered a rare type of fracture. We are reporting a similar type of case for the first time from Indian subcontinent but with a different associated medical condition. Case presentation: A 75 years old female presented with spontaneous fracture of right femur diaphysis. She was on Alendronate for past six years. Her bone metabolic picture also revealed vitamin D insufficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Conclusion: Alendronate induced atypical fracture in association with secondary hyperparathyroidism is an unusual presentation which has not been reported in any of the case reports till date as per our knowledge. This type of presentation may need future investigation both for disease pathophysiology and future outcome in this type of fracture treatment. Treatment of osteoporosis with antiresoptive agent, alendronate; warrants careful follow-up", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/9f/JOCR-1-19.PMC4701117.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4762302", "abstract": "Purpose of the Study: The purpose was to investigate the differences in tooth shade value according to age, gender and skin color among a sample of the local population in Bengaluru, India. Methodology: The study comprised 100 subjects belonging to both gender between the age groups of 16 years to 55 years. Tooth shade values of permanent maxillary left or right central incisors were recorded using the Vitapan 3D-Master shade guide. Skin color was matched using the Radiance compact makeup shades as a guide. Results: Chi-square statistical test demonstrated that younger subjects have lighter tooth shade values. No statistically significant differences were recorded in tooth shade value according to gender or skin color. Conclusion: Within the limitations of the current study, it can be concluded that tooth shade value is significantly influenced by age. Gender and skin color appear not to have a significant relation to tooth shade value.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/41/JIPS-15-138.PMC4762302.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5361032", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of dysphagia therapy in an old man with difficulty swallowing in the oral and pharyngeal phases. [Subjects and Methods] The subject was a 72-year-old man with no history of neurological disorders. He was admitted to local hospital because of the complaint of swallowing difficulty. The interventions performed were electrical stimulation and conventional dysphagia therapy. We assessed the tongue and lip muscle strengths. Swallowing function was evaluated by using the videofluoroscopic dysphagia and penetration-aspiration scales. [Results] After the intervention, the tongue and lip muscle strengths increased from 35 to 39 kPa and from 18 to 23 kPa, respectively. Moreover, the oral and pharyngeal phases of the videofluoroscopic dysphagia scale were improved. Furthermore, aspiration decreased from 4 to 2 points in the penetration-aspiration scale. [Conclusion] Our results suggest that electrical stimulation and conventional dysphagia therapy were effective in improving the swallowing function in an elderly individual with dysphagia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/2c/jpts-29-556.PMC5361032.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4801209", "abstract": "Background The aim of this study was to reveal the association between airflow limitation (AL) severity and reduction with work productivity as well as use of sick leave among Japanese workers. Methods This cross-sectional study included 1,378 workers who underwent a lung function test during a health checkup at the Japanese Red Cross Kumamoto Health Care Center. AL was defined as forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity of <0.7. Workers completed a questionnaire on productivity loss at work and sick leave. The quality and quantity of productivity loss at work were measured on a ten-point scale indicating how much work was actually performed on the previous workday. Participants were asked how many days in the past 12 months they were unable to work because of health problems. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the associations between AL severity and the quality and quantity of productivity loss at work as well as use of sick leave. Results Compared with workers without AL, workers with moderate-to-severe AL showed a significant productivity loss (quality: odds ratio [OR] =2.04, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/41/5d/copd-11-567.PMC4801209.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4305100", "abstract": " The role of adaptive immune responses in the control of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is well accepted. The contribution of innate immune responses to the viral control is recognized but yet not fully understood. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) sense pathogen-associated molecule patterns and activate antiviral mechanisms including the intracellular antiviral pathways and the production of antiviral effectors like interferons (IFNs) and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Activation of the TLR3 pathway and the production of IFN-β represent one of the major mechanisms leading to the suppression of HBV replication in the liver, as shown in different in vitro and in vivo models. TLR4 signaling and TLR2 signaling result in the activation of intracellular pathways including MAPK and PI-3 K/Akt in hepatocytes and reduce HBV replication in an IFN-independent manner. HBV is able to counteract the actions of TLR3 and TLR2/4 through downregulation of TLR expression and attenuation of the cellular signaling pathways. Thus, TLR ligands are promising candidates as immunomodulators and therapeutics for the treatment of chronic HBV infection. Specific antiviral treatment against HBV could recover the TLR functions in chronic HBV infection and increase the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches based on TLR activation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b3/91/PMC4305100.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3021344", "abstract": "Techniques for mobilizing the greater curve of the stomach during laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) include division of the short gastric vessels (SGV). The splenic artery and vein lie directly posterior to the proper plane of dissection. Uncontrolled bleeding during SGV division places the splenic vessels at risk for inadvertent injury or ligation. We report herein on 2 patients referred to our institution who had left upper quadrant pain and radiographic evidence of segmental splenic infarction (SI) that resulted from a peripheral splenic artery branch injury during LNF. Management strategies included a trial of conservative management and splenectomy for persistent symptoms or complications resulting from SI. Intense inflammation and adhesion formation making laparoscopic splenectomy difficult should be anticipated when operating on the infarcted spleen.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ee/4d/jsls-7-4-359.PMC3021344.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3424176", "abstract": "Objective To investigate the effect of surgery time on prognosis of newborns with meningomyelocele. Methods The records of neonates with meningomyelocele were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic and clinical characteristics as well as information, timing of surgery, and durations of hospital stay and antibiotic therapy were recorded. Results The records of 30 babies were included in the final analysis. Overall, the mean gestational age was 37.7±2.7 weeks, with a mean birth weight of 2967±755 g and head circumference of 35.8±3.8 cm. In terms of localization, 46.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/95/jkns-51-359.PMC3424176.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4967490", "abstract": "Parathyroid adenoma is a benign tumor of the parathyroid glands. The cause of most parathyroid adenomas is unknown. Parathyroid adenoma increases the secretion of parathyroid hormone and results in primary hyperparathyroidism. High amounts of parathyroid hormone in the blood cause the imbalance of calcium, which leads to various complications such as kidney stones, depression, lethargy, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, myalgia, bone and joint pain, hoarseness, etc. Oropharyngeal dysphagia is defined as having problem in swallowing due to abnormalities in the structure and function of oropharynx and other related organs. The exact prevalence of dysphagia caused by parathyroid adenoma is unknown, but since this complication can lead to increased mortality and morbidity, its diagnosis is important. It is difficult to distinguish parathyroid malignancies from parathyroid adenoma even after surgery. Therefore, the final diagnosis is possible through surgery and histopathological evaluation. Here, a case of parathyroid adenoma with first presentation of generalized weakness and dysphagia has been reported.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5b/c6/IJMS-41-446.PMC4967490.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3073788", "abstract": "The rupture of an intra-abdominal testicular neoplasm is a rare cause of acute abdomen and massive intra-abdominal haemorrhage. We report the case of a 70-year-old male presenting a massive intra-abdominal bleeding caused by a Leydig cell tumour in an undescended testis. The clinical details and pathology of this rare testicular tumour are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c8/bb/crg0001-0053.PMC3073788.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3233703", "abstract": "Since the 1990s, several studies involving French centenarians have shown a gender paradox in old age. Even if women are more numerous in old age and live longer than men, men are in better physical and cognitive health, are higher functioning, and have superior vision. If better health should lead to a longer life, why are men not living longer than women? This paper proposes a hypothesis based on the differences in the generational habitus between men and women who were born at the beginning of the 20th century. The concept of generational habitus combines the generation theory of Mannheim with the habitus concept of Bourdieu based on the observation that there exists a way of being, thinking, and doing for each generation. We hypothesized that this habitus still influences many gender-linked behaviours in old age. Men, as “oaks,” seem able to delay the afflictions of old age until a breaking point, while women, as “reeds,” seem able to survive despite an accumulation of health deficits.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/42/63/PMC3233703.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5422411", "abstract": "Objective Though D2 lymphadenectomy has been increasingly regarded as standard surgical procedure for advanced gastric cancer (GC), the modified D2 (D1 + 7, 8a and 9) lymphadenectomy may be more suitable than D2 dissection for T2 stage GC. The purpose of this study is to elucidate whether the surgical outcome of modified D2 lymphadenectomy was comparable to that of standard D2 dissection in T2 stage GC patients. Methods A retrospective cohort study with 77 cases and 77 controls matched for baseline characteristics was conducted. Patients were categorized into two groups according to the extent of lymphadenectomy: the modified D2 group (mD2) and the standard D2 group (D2). Surgical outcome and recurrence date were compared between the two groups. Results The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was 71.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/51/d6/cjcr-29-2-100.PMC5422411.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4480939", "abstract": "Nine malignant breast epithelial cell lines and 3 normal breast cell lines were examined for stress fiber formation and expression of TPM1 isoform-specific RNAs and proteins. Stress fiber formation was strong (++++) in the normal cell lines and varied among the malignant cell lines (negative to +++). Although TPM1γ and TPM1δ were the dominant transcripts of TPM1, there was no clear evidence for TPM1δ protein expression. Four novel human TPM1 gene RNA isoforms were discovered (λ, μ, ν, and ξ), which were not identified in adult and fetal human cardiac tissues. TPM1λ was the most frequent isoform expressed in the malignant breast cell lines, and it was absent in normal breast epithelial cell lines. By western blotting, we were unable to distinguish between TPM1γ, λ, and ν protein expression, which were the only TPM1 gene protein isoforms potentially expressed. Some malignant cell lines demonstrated increased or decreased expression of these isoforms relative to the normal breast cell lines. Stress fiber formation did not correlate with TPM1γ RNA expression but significantly and inversely correlated with TPM1δ and TPM1λ expression, respectively. The exact differences in expression of these novel isoforms and their functional properties in breast epithelial cells will require further study.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/e1/PMC4480939.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4019290", "abstract": "Abstract Aims/Introduction Liraglutide, a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist, is expected to provide a new treatment option for diabetes. However, the suitable timing of liraglutide administration in type 2 diabetic patients has not yet been clarified. Materials and Methods We reviewed type 2 diabetic patients (n = 155) who visited the Osaka Red Cross Hospital for glycemic control, with administration of liraglutide at a dose of 0.6 mg (average glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] level, 8.7 ± 0.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7f/54/PMC4019290.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3303554", "abstract": "Sweden's population is gradually changing to become more multiethnic and diverse and that applies also for recipients of health care, including childhood cancer care. A holistic view on the sick child in the context of its family has always been a cornerstone in childhood cancer care in Sweden. The purpose of this study was to gain knowledge about the experiences and main concern of foreign-born parents in the context of paediatric cancer care. Interviews were performed with eleven foreign-born parents and data were analysed using a classic grounded theory approach. Foreign-born parents often feel in a position of powerless dependence, but family interests are protected in their approaches to interaction with healthcare staff, through cooperation, contesting, and reluctant resigning. Healthcare staff need to listen to foreign-born parents and deal with their concerns seriously to prevent powerless-dependence and work for trustful cooperation in the common fight against childhood cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/26/PMC3303554.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3310619", "abstract": "We investigated a cluster of 5 plague cases; the patients included 4 with severe pharyngitis and submandibular lymphadenitis. These 4 case-patients had eaten raw camel liver. Yersinia pestis was isolated from bone marrow of the camel and from jirds (Meriones libycus) and fleas (Xenopsylla cheopis) captured at the camel corral.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d8/75/PMC3310619.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4918541", "abstract": "Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis (MRH) is a rare and debilitating systemic disorder characterized by cutaneous nodules and destructive polyarthritis. Due to its unknown etiology, the treatment of MRH varies with different rates of success, which causes treatment options to be rather independent and empirical. In the present study, a case of a 48-year-old woman with a 12-month history of polyarthralgia and skin nodules was reported. Biopsy samples, which were obtained from her skin eruption exhibited dermal infiltration with histiocytes and multinucleated giant cells. Immunohistochemical staining indicated positivity for CD68. The patient was diagnosed with MRH and treated with a combination therapy of infliximab, prednisolone and methotrexate. Her symptoms improved markedly within 2 weeks. Following the results of this case study, a systematic review of 17 cases of MRH treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists was performed, and the efficacy of anti-TNF treatment in MRH was analyzed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1b/08/mmr-14-01-0209.PMC4918541.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3542515", "abstract": "Embolization of the closure device is a rare but potentially fatal complication of percutaneous atrial septal defect (ASD) closure. We report a case of 45-year-old woman who underwent ASD device closure with 32 mm Amplatzer device, which was embolized to the pulmonary artery without symptom one day after successful device implantation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/00/jcu-20-201.PMC3542515.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3501960", "abstract": "The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the functionality of fixed and removable partial dentures as test interventions in relation to variations in the opposing dentition and their prosthetic restoration. The abstracts identified in the respective databases were screened independently by two investigators. RCTs and uncontrolled studies were considered, provided the patients were included consecutively and the confounding variables were adequately monitored. Seventeen papers were included. The study and publication quality was assessed using a “biometric quality” tool showing an overall poor quality. The reported outcomes, such as survival rates, were in each case obtained from a single study. Two possible trends could be deduced for the endpoint longevity: (a) the first trend in favor of removable partial dentures, compared to fixed partial dentures, with a fully edentulous opposing arch fitted with a removable prosthesis; (b) the second trend in favor of implant-supported partial dentures, compared to conventionally fixed partial dentures, with natural opposing dentition or with a removable partial denture in the opposing arch. No evidence could be generated as to whether, and if so how, variations in the opposing dentition have a bearing on the decision to fit a partially edentulous arch with a fixed or removable partial denture.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/de/8a/PMC3501960.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5421825", "abstract": "Here we utilized social media to compare the toxidrome of three lethal chemical exposures worldwide. YouTube videos were the main source from which the data were collected, but published reports and news were also utilized to fill in some gaps. All videos were organized in a database detailing symptoms and severity of each victim, along with demographics such as approximate age and gender. Each symptom was rated as mild, moderate, or severe and corresponding pie graphs for each incident were compared. The videos displayed symptoms ranging from mild to severe cholinergic toxicity and life‐threatening convulsions. Social media may represent an important resource in developing a viable approach to the early detection and identification of chemical exposure, reinforce our preparedness for better antidotes, long‐term follow up, and training about deadly chemical nerve agent attacks.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/0d/CTS-10-225.PMC5421825.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4817822", "abstract": "Bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG), an attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bovis, is the only vaccine available for tuberculosis (TB) control. However, BCG is not an ideal vaccine and has two major limitations: BCG exhibits highly variable effectiveness against the development of TB both in pediatric and adult populations and can cause disseminated BCG disease in immunocompromised individuals. BCG comprises a number of substrains that are genetically distinct. Whether and how these genetic differences affect BCG efficacy remains largely unknown. In this study, we performed comparative analyses of the virulence and efficacy of 13 BCG strains, representing different genetic lineages, in SCID and BALB/c mice. Our results show that BCG strains of the DU2 group IV (BCG-Phipps, BCG-Frappier, BCG-Pasteur, and BCG-Tice) exhibit the highest levels of virulence, and BCG strains of the DU2 group II (BCG-Sweden, BCG-Birkhaug) are among the least virulent group. These distinct levels of virulence may be explained by strain-specific duplications and deletions of genomic DNA. There appears to be a general trend that more virulent BCG strains are also more effective in protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis challenge. Our findings have important implications for current BCG vaccine programs and for future TB vaccine development.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/88/c0/mt2015216a.PMC4817822.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2817376", "abstract": "MAP kinases (MAPK) are involved in the regulation of cellular processes such as reproduction and growth. In parasites, the role of MAPK  has been scarcely studied. Here, we describe the participation of an ERK-like protein in estrogen-dependent reproduction of the helminth parasite Taenia crassiceps. Our results show that 17β-estradiol induces a concentration-dependent increase in the bud number of in vitro cultured cysticerci. If parasites are also incubated in presence of an ERK-inhibitor, the stimulatory effect of estrogen is blocked. The expression of ERK-like mRNA and its corresponding protein was detected in the parasite. The ERK-like protein was over-expressed by all treatments. Nevertheless, a strong induction of phosphorylation of this protein was observed only in response to 17β-estradiol. Cross-contamination by host cells was discarded by flow cytometry analysis. Parasite cells expressing the ERK-like protein were exclusively located at the subtegument tissue by confocal microscopy. Finally, the ERK-like protein was separated by bidimensional electrophoresis and then sequenced, showing the conserved TEY activation motif, typical of all known ERK 1/2 proteins. Our results show that an ERK-like protein is involved in the molecular signalling during the interaction between the host and T. crassiceps, and may be considered as target for anti-helminth drugs design.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/84/PMC2817376.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4327682", "abstract": "Objective: This study evaluated the presence of microorganisms and analyzed microscopically the pulp of 20 traumatized human teeth with intact crowns and clinical diagnosis of pulp necrosis, based on the association of at least three of the clinical criteria: crown discoloration, negative response to thermal and electric pulp vitality tests, positive response to vertical and horizontal percussion, pain on palpation or mobility. Material and Methods: Microbiological collection was performed from the root canals to evaluate the presence of microorganisms. The pulp samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H.E.) for histological evaluation of possible morphological alterations. Results: Analysis of results was performed by statistical tests (linear regression test and diagnostic analysis) and subjective analysis of the sections stained with H.E. and revealed that only 15", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/a6/1678-7757-jaos-17-05-0508.PMC4327682.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3227517", "abstract": "Patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis have significantly impaired synthetic function. Many proteins involved in the coagulation process are synthesized in the liver. Routinely performed tests of the coagulation are abnormal in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. This has led to the widespread belief that decompensated liver cirrhosis is prototype of acquired hemorrhagic coagulopathy. If prothrombin time is prolonged more than 3 seconds over control, invasive procedures like liver biopsy, splenoportogram, percutaneous cholangiography, or surgery were associated with increased risk of bleeding, and coagulopathy should be corrected with infusion of fresh frozen plasma. These practices were without any scientific evidence and were associated with significant hazards of fresh frozen plasma transfusion. Now, it is realized that coagulation is a complex process involving the interaction of procoagulation and anticoagulation factors and the fibrinolytic system. As there is reduction in both anti and procoagulant factors, global tests of coagulation are normal in patients with acute and chronic liver disease indicating that coagulopathy in liver disease is more of a myth than a reality. In the last few years, surgical techniques have substantially improved, and complex procedures like liver transplantation can be done without the use of blood or blood products. Patients with liver cirrhosis may also be at increased risk of thrombosis. In this paper, we will discuss coagulopathy, increased risk of thrombosis, and their management in decompensated liver cirrhosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d6/4d/PMC3227517.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3163472", "abstract": "The genome sequence of the Mamavirus, a new Acanthamoeba polyphaga mimivirus strain, is reported. With 1,191,693 nt in length and 1,023 predicted protein-coding genes, the Mamavirus has the largest genome among the known viruses. The genomes of the Mamavirus and the previously described Mimivirus are highly similar in both the protein-coding genes and the intergenic regions. However, the Mamavirus contains an extra 5′-terminal segment that encompasses primarily disrupted duplicates of genes present elsewhere in the genome. The Mamavirus also has several unique genes including a small regulatory polyA polymerase subunit that is shared with poxviruses. Detailed analysis of the protein sequences of the two Mimiviruses led to a substantial amendment of the functional annotation of the viral genomes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/e2/evr048.PMC3163472.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4189937", "abstract": " Background. A variety of symptoms have been reported, but the prevalence of specific symptoms in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), how they are related to one another, and their impact on patient reported outcomes is not well understood. Objective. To describe how symptoms of RRMS cooccur and their impact on patient-reported outcomes. Methods. Individuals who reported a physician diagnosis of RRMS in a large general health survey in the United States indicated the symptoms they experience because of RRMS and completed validated scales, including the work productivity and activity impairment questionnaire and either the SF-12v2 or SF-36v2. Symptom clusters were identified through hierarchical cluster analysis, and the relationship between clusters and outcomes was assessed through regression. Results. Fatigue, difficulty walking, and numbness were the most commonly reported symptoms. Seven symptom clusters were identified, and several were significantly related to patient reported outcomes. Pain, muscle spasms, and stiffness formed a cluster strongly related to physical quality of life; depression was strongly related to mental quality of life and cognitive difficulty was associated with work impairment. Conclusions. Symptoms in RRMS show a strong relationship with quality of life and should be taken into consideration in treatment decisions and evaluation of treatment success.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/39/f4/PMC4189937.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3236406", "abstract": "Letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, has been demonstrated to be effective as an ovulation induction and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation agent. However, dose administration has generally been limited to 5 days at 2.5 to 7.5 mg daily. We undertook a retrospective review of over 900 treatment cycles using letrozole in doses as high as 12.5 mg per day. Results indicate that such doses do indeed offer benefit to patients; in that there is increased follicular growth and a higher number of predicted ovulations with higher doses of the drug. However, increasing doses does not produce a detrimental effect upon endometrial thickness. High-dose letrozole may be of value in women who fail to respond adequately to lower doses. Furthermore, randomized trials are needed to determine whether high-dose letrozole might actually be optimal as a starting dose for certain treatment groups.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3a/31/PMC3236406.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4899649", "abstract": "Introduction Wilms tumor is one of general solid cancers that occur in children, which carries a death rate of 7–8 in a million. The cure rate of Wilms tumor in the recent 30 years has dramatically been improved, but a proper remedy is still not prepared enough in terms of application in tumor therapy upon recurrence after radiotherapy, surgery and chemotherapy. We present an integrative medical remedy – hyperthermia and thymosin-α1 treatment focused on herbal remedy – since there have been cases in which this remedy contributed to remission in the liver-transferred part in the 4th phase of Wilms tumor and stable maintenance of metastatic lung lesion. Case Presentation Our patient, a female Korean mongoloid outpatient, was treated from October 25, 2014, to July 22, 2015. The herbal remedy consisted of 8 ml inhalation of Soram nebulizer solution q.d., Soramdan S 8 g p.o., Hangamdan S 1 g p.o., t.i.d., Cheongjangtang 10–30 ml, and Spiam HC 8 g p.o. The integrative medical therapy was done with hyperthermia therapy (oncothermia) and 1.6 mg of thymosin-α1 treatment (Zadaxin) i.m. According to the CT result on July 15th, 2015, the liver metastasis was not seen anymore, while the lung metastasis was maintained stably without tumor progress. Conclusions Accompanying integrative medical therapy with herbal remedy in the treatment of Wilms tumor showing progress patterns after surgery and chemotherapy can be meaningful as a new remedy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/31/cf/cro-0009-0119.PMC4899649.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4756004", "abstract": "[Purpose] Gait-training robots have been developed for stroke patients with gait disturbance. It is important to survey the views of physiatrists and physical therapists on the characteristics of these devices during their development. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 100 physiatrists and 100 physical therapists from 38 hospitals participated in our questionnaire survey. [Results] The most common answers about the merits of gait-training robots concern improving the treatment effects (28.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/42/37/jpts-28-202.PMC4756004.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1791056", "abstract": "We report a case of Eikenella corrodens causing vulvar abscess in a diabetic patient. Eikenella corrodens is a slow growing, nonmotile, facultative anaerobic, Gram-negative bacillus which is commensal of the oral cavity, intestinal and genital tracts. The most common clinical sources of this organism are human bite wounds, head and neck infections and respiratory tract infections. In our knowledge, the presented case is the first report of Eikenella corrodens causing vulvar abscess in a diabetic patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/60/71/PMC1791056.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4089613", "abstract": "Progressive loss of kidney function leads to reduced production of calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D; active vitamin D) and an imbalance in serum calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) levels, which are associated with progression of renal failure as well as increased rates of cardiovascular (CV) events and mortality. In addition, multifactorial hypocalcemia and resistance to parathyroid hormone (PTH) can lead to prolonged and excessive synthesis and secretion of PTH, eventually leading to development of secondary hyperparathyroidism and renal osteodystrophy. These changes associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD), extending beyond bone and related biochemical abnormalities, have prompted the development of the term CKD–mineral and bone disorder to describe its systemic nature. Excessive P loading, among other factors, will promote vascular calcification (VC), and PTH production will affect bone remodeling. Although administration of calcitriol increases serum Ca levels and decreases PTH, it is also associated with elevated Ca × P product. Therefore, compounds that selectively activate vitamin D receptors (VDR activators), potentially reducing Ca–P toxicity and distinctly affecting pathogenic mechanisms of VC, might enhance CV and renal protection, increase the vitamin D therapeutic window, and thus provide a significant clinical benefit. Moreover, selective VDR activators have been associated with improvement in survival, at least among dialysis patients. Thus, selective VDR activators should be considered a novel and interesting approach to enhance the standard of care in CKD patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/db/PMC4089613.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2447796", "abstract": "Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) elements are a particular family of tandem repeats present in prokaryotic genomes, in almost all archaea and in about half of bacteria, and which participate in a mechanism of acquired resistance against phages. They consist in a succession of direct repeats (DR) of 24–47 bp separated by similar sized unique sequences (spacers). In the large majority of cases, the direct repeats are highly conserved, while the number and nature of the spacers are often quite diverse, even among strains of a same species. Furthermore, the acquisition of new units (DR + spacer) was shown to happen almost exclusively on one side of the locus. Therefore, the CRISPR presents an interesting genetic marker for comparative and evolutionary analysis of closely related bacterial strains. CRISPRcompar is a web service created to assist biologists in the CRISPR typing process. Two tools facilitates the in silico investigation: CRISPRcomparison and CRISPRtionary. This website is freely accessible at http://crispr.u-psud.fr/CRISPRcompar/.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/8f/gkn228.PMC2447796.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3914180", "abstract": " Purpose. To evaluate efficacy and safety of vitrectorhexis method for both anterior and posterior capsules combined with anterior vitrectomy in children with cataract.  Methods. A retrospective chart review was performed for 19 children with cataract operated at a tertiary referral center. Dual approach including anterior and posterior segments was used during the surgery in terms of capsulotomy, intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, and anterior vitrectomy. Results. A total of 23 eyes of 19 patients were enrolled in the study. The mean age of the children was 39.4 ± 2.2 months (5–78). The mean postoperative followup duration was 20.6 ± 7.8 months (3–32). Intraoperative tear was observed only in one of 23 (4.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9f/00/PMC3914180.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4381728", "abstract": "The chemosensitivity of anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) to some cytotoxic agents was investigated by the histoculture drug response assay (HDRA). Thirty specimens from 22 patients with ATC were obtained from surgically resected subjects. The drugs tested were paclitaxel (PTX), docetaxel (DOC), adriamycin (ADM), nedaplatin (254-S), cisplatin (CDDP), carboplatin (CBDCA), etoposide (VP-16), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), mitomycin C (MMC), and cyclophosphamide (CPA). PTX was the most effective agent, and 25 of 29 cases (86.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/a5/PMC4381728.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3135115", "abstract": " 1H NMR-based metabonomics was used to investigate the multimodal response of mice to malarial parasite infection by P. berghei ANKA. Liver metabolism was followed by NMR spectroscopy through the course of the disease in both male and female mice. Our results showed alterations in the level of several metabolites as a result of the infection. Metabolites like kynurenic acid, alanine, carnitine, and β-alanine showed significant alteration in the liver, suggesting altered kynurenic acid, glucose, fatty acid and amino acid pathways. Distinct sexual dimorphism was also observed in the global analysis of the liver metabolic profiles. Multiway principal component analysis (MPCA) was carried out on the liver, brain, and serum metabolic profile in order to explore the correlation of liver and brain metabolic profile to the metabolite profile of serum. Changes in such correlation profile also indicated distinct sexual dimorphism at the early stage of the disease. Indications are that the females are able to regulate their metabolism in the liver in such a way to maintain homeostasis in the blood. In males, however, choline in liver showed anticorrelation to choline content of serum indicating a higher phospholipid degradation process. The brain-serum correlation profile showed an altered energy metabolism in both the sexes. The differential organellar responses during disease progression have implications in malaria management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/24/00/PMC3135115.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4415646", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Newly hatched black porgy larvae (Acanthopagrus schlegeli) swam to the surface, with the mouth and anus still closed and were 1.90–2.11 mm (mean, 2.0 mm) in total length (TL). The larvae were 2.71–2.94 mm TL (mean, 2.82 mm) on day 2 after hatching. At this time, about two-thirds of the yolk was absorbed, the bladder and intestines had formed, and the mouth and anus were open. Total length was 4.32–4.66 mm (mean, 4.45 mm) at the post-larval stage on days 5–6 after hatching, and the yolk and oil globule were almost absorbed. The end of the notochord began to flex, and 6–8 caudal fin rays were visible. The larvae were 15.37–16.1 mm TL (mean, 15.83 mm) at the juvenile stage on days 30–32 after hatching, and the number of rays in all fins was completely revealed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/14/a8/devrep-18-311.PMC4415646.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4325550", "abstract": " Zea mays (maize) and Vigna radiata (green gram) are found to be the chromium (Cr) tolerant and sensitive plants, respectively. In the present paper, we investigate the reduction of the toxicity of Cr in the sensitive plants by the mixed crop cultivation in the field using various amendments. Further, the potassium dichromate was used as the source of hexavalent Cr. The results indicated that Cr adversely affects both the growth and yield of plants. The soil properties vary with Cr and different fertilizer amendments and the yield of both plants were affected by Cr. We conclude that metal accumulation of seeds of green gram was higher than corn and the application of single fertilizer either farm yard manure (FYM) or nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (NPK) enhances the growth and yield of both the tolerant and sensitive plants in the mixed crop cultivations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/23/ff/PMC4325550.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4410591", "abstract": "We describe the case of an 85-year-old man who presented with a large pericardial effusion. The patient was admitted because of anorexia and general malaise. Chest X-ray revealed an increased cardiothoracic ratio and a small amount of bilateral pleural effusion. Two-dimensional ultrasonographic echocardiography showed pericardial effusions with atrial and right ventricular early diastolic collapse, establishing the diagnosis of cardiac tamponade. Signet-ring cell cancer with pericardial involvement was diagnosed by subxiphoid pericardiostomy. The clear fluid was removed through pericardial drainage. The signet-ring cell carcinoma of the stomach was revealed by gastric fiberscope examination after pericardial biopsy proved malignancy. Virchow lymph node metastasis was also found. We diagnosed the patient with gastric cancer stage IV and suggested him the best supportive therapy. He died of cardiac arrest 1 month after best supportive care.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/92/cro-0008-0174.PMC4410591.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2792354", "abstract": "Abstract. Selenium is an essential trace element. In cattle, selenium deficiency causes dysfunction of various organs, including skeletal and cardiac muscles. In humans as well, lack of selenium is associated with many disorders, but despite accumulation of clinical reports, muscle diseases are not generally considered on the list. The goal of this review is to establish the connection between clinical observations and the most recent advances obtained in selenium biology. Recent results about a possible role of selenium-containing proteins in muscle formation and repair have been collected. Selenoprotein N is the first selenoprotein linked to genetic disorders consisting of different forms of congenital muscular dystrophies. Understanding the muscle disorders associated with selenium deficiency or selenoprotein N dysfunction is an essential step in defining the causes of the disease and obtaining a better comprehension of the mechanisms involved in muscle formation and maintenance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a1/fd/PMC2792354.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4347032", "abstract": "Clinical features of masticator-space abscess (MSA) are very similar to those of parotitis or temporomandibular disorder (TMD), making early differential diagnosis difficult. Local causes of MSA include nerve block anesthesia, infection after tooth extraction, and trauma to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ); the systemic cause is immunodeficiency. Odontogenic causes account for most etiologies, but there are also unusual causes of MSA. A 66-year-old male patient visited the emergency room (ER) presenting with left-side TMJ pain three days after receiving an acupressure massage. He was tentatively diagnosed with conventional post-trauma TMD and discharged with medication. However, the patient returned to the ER with increased pain. At this time, his TMD diagnosis was confirmed. He made a third visit to the ER during which facial computed tomographic (CT) images were taken. CT readings identified an abscess or hematoma in the left masticator space. After hospitalizing the patient, needle aspiration confirmed pus in the infratemporal and temporal fossa. Antibiotics were administered, and the abscess was drained through an incision made by the attending physician. The patient's symptoms decreased, and he was discharged.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ce/12/jkaoms-41-52.PMC4347032.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4708173", "abstract": "Co-administration of a long-acting β2-agonist and a long acting muscarinic antagonist produces superior bronchodilation compared with their individual effects. Our preclinical data indicated that combining aclidinium bromide (ACLI) and formoterol fumarate (FORM) provides synergistic benefit on smooth muscle relaxation of both large and small human airways. Data from more than 2,000 patients in eleven clinical trials documented that ACLI/FORM, a twice-daily fixed-dose combination, produces a greater degree of bronchodilation than ACLI or FORM monotherapy alone and is safe and well tolerated. Two large key trials have shown that there is a benefit in using ACLI/FORM when the clinical target is the variability of symptoms and mainly nighttime and/or early morning symptoms. ACLI/FORM is the only long acting muscarinic antagonist/long acting β2-agonist fixed-dose combination that has been studied for this therapeutic indication.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2e/79/copd-11-073.PMC4708173.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3917119", "abstract": "The aim of the study was to use the appraisal model of stress to compare hemodialysis (HD) and continuous peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients with special focus on the perception of end-stage renal disease and subsequent emotional profile and health related quality of life (HQoL) in. We hypothesize that different circumstances related to both modes of therapies will result in dissimilar perception of chronic illness with subsequent changes in emotional profile and heath related quality of life. The total of 88 patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) enrolled in hemodialysis (n=52; HD) or continuous peritoneal dialysis (n=36; CAPD) were given a battery of psychological tests: The Profile of Mood States, The Nottingham Health Profile, The Stress Situation Assessment Questionnaire, The Social Appreciation Questionnaire and The Situation and Trait and Anxiety Inventory. All patients perceived ESRD in terms of a loss and a threat. Moreover, CAPD patients evaluated ESRD as a challenge. Despite different perception of ESRD no significant difference in the level of fear, anxiety or emotional profile was found. Both HD and CAPD patient were reported more fatigue/inertia and confusion/bewilderment than control groups. The main health related complaints were similar in both ESRD patients with major complaints of sleeping disturbances, motor limitations and lack of energy. From the psychological point of view, CAPD treatment seems more like challenge to the enrolled patient which is positive outcome. Despite different appraisal of stress mood and health related complaints were similar in both groups. This may be a result of optimal regulation of cognitive perception of the stress depending on the circumstances of therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/2d/ijmsv11p0291.PMC3917119.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2924729", "abstract": "This report focuses on recent policy, and academic and clinical developments in the therapeutic management of sex offenders, including the need for more robust assessment and risk management protocols. Information is provided on current thinking about psychological and pharmacological interventions. Meta-analytic studies clearly indicate that cognitive behavioural and relapse prevention programmes are the most effective intervention, but there is a small amount of literature suggesting that pharmacological treatments may have some utility. With advances in our understanding of the neural substrates of deviant sexual arousal we may be able to develop and trial novel neuropharmacological agents that target dysfunctional neurochemical circuits in this field.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/56/1757-5931-0001-0000000045.PMC2924729.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2779290", "abstract": "While mild thrombocytopenia in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is frequently seen in the context of active disease, severe thrombocytopenia causing significant bleeding is not that common. Corticosteroids are considered the first line therapy for severe thrombocytopenia in SLE. Second-line therapeutic agents or splenectomy have been reported to be effective for patients who fail to respond to steroids or those who require moderate doses of steroids to maintain the platelet counts. Recent randomized controlled studies have shown that mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is an efficacious and safe therapeutic agent in patients with proliferative forms of lupus nephritis. However, little information has been available regarding the role of MMF in the treatment of immune thrombocytopenia complicated with SLE. Hereby I describe a patient with SLE in whom thrombocytopenia was refractory to corticosteroids, intermittent intravenous cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, cyclosporine, intravenous gamma globulin, danazol, and splenectomy, and whose platelet counts eventually normalized during therapy with MMF. In this patient, thrombocytopenia is initially thought to be associated with active SLE involving major organ. However, after immunosuppressive agents were given, the refractory nature of thrombocytopenia seems to be an isolated phenomenon, independently of SLE activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a4/8e/jkms-20-883.PMC2779290.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4697092", "abstract": "The neurotoxicity caused by methylmercury (MeHg) is well documented; however, the developmental neurotoxicity in spinal cord is still not fully understood. Here we investigated whether MeHg affects the spinal cord layers development. Chicken embryos at E3 were treated in ovo with 0.1 μg MeHg/50 μL saline solution and analyzed at E10. Thus, we performed immunostaining using anti-γ-H2A.X to recognize DNA double-strand breaks and antiphosphohistone H3, anti-p21, and anti-cyclin E to identify cells in proliferation and cell cycle proteins. Also, to identify neuronal cells, we used anti-NeuN and anti-βIII-tubulin antibodies. After the MeHg treatment, we observed the increase on γ-H2A.X in response to DNA damage. MeHg caused a decrease in the proliferating cells and in the thickness of spinal cord layers. Moreover, we verified that MeHg induced an increase in the number of p21-positive cells but did not change the cyclin E-positive cells. A significantly high number of TUNEL-positive cells indicating DNA fragmentation were observed in MeHg-treated embryos. Regarding the neuronal differentiation, MeHg induced a decrease in NeuN expression and did not change the expression of βIII-tubulin. These results showed that in ovo MeHg exposure alters spinal cord development by disturbing the cell proliferation and death, also interfering in early neuronal differentiation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b5/ad/PMC4697092.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4393052", "abstract": "Previously, it has been shown that not only is uranium reduction under fermentation condition common among clostridia species, but also the strains differed in the extent of their capability and the pH of the culture significantly affected uranium(VI) reduction. In this study, using HPLC and GC techniques, metabolic properties of those clostridial strains active in uranium reduction under fermentation conditions have been characterized and their effects on capability variance of uranium reduction discussed. Then, the relationship between hydrogen metabolism and uranium reduction has been further explored and the important role played by hydrogenase in uranium(VI) and iron(III) reduction by clostridia demonstrated. When hydrogen was provided as the headspace gas, uranium(VI) reduction occurred in the presence of whole cells of clostridia. This is in contrast to that of nitrogen as the headspace gas. Without clostridia cells, hydrogen alone could not result in uranium(VI) reduction. In alignment with this observation, it was also found that either copper(II) addition or iron depletion in the medium could compromise uranium reduction by clostridia. In the end, a comprehensive model was proposed to explain uranium reduction by clostridia and its relationship to the overall metabolism especially hydrogen (H2) production.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/10/28/PMC4393052.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2609945", "abstract": "Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate relationships between the socio-demographic and economic factors of patients and the reasons of admission, usage periods of the two types of clinics, frequencies of denture changes, satisfaction levels and preferences of prosthetic dental treatment. Materials and Methods 510 partially and/or totally edentulous patients were studied using a questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of questions; age, gender, education level, income status, problems with dentures, necessity for new dentures. Also asked was the place that the subjects would prefer to get their denture treatment, irrespective of their income level. In this study, Z-test was used to analyze two-sample proportions, T-test was used to determine two-sample means and Chi-square test was used to determine relationship between two classified variables. Results The number of male patients with complete dentures was more than the number of females, with an opposing trend for partial dentures. Irrespective of gender, each patient had had nearly two dentures by the time of questioning. It was also observed that the university clinics were generally preferred by patients from higher income levels with a higher educational level (x=25.206, P<.00). When patients were asked where they would prefer denture treatment, regardless of cost, private practice was the preferred-choice. Conclusions With respect to dental condition and the acceptance of removable dentures, there were differences among gender, educational level and income status.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6d/61/PMC2609945.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3214811", "abstract": "Embolization of an aneurysm at the proximal A1 segment of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) is technically challenging. We treated four consecutive patients with unruptured aneurysms at the proximal portion of the A1 segment of the ACA. We tested various microcatheter tip shapes before we successfully embolized a lesion with a zigzag-shaped microcatheter tip, which was made by steam shaping. The shape of this microcatheter tip resembled the letter \"Z\", had a relatively long distal straight segment and was helpful in prompt catheterization of the aneurysm sac and stable placement of the catheter and delivery of coils.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/96/ni-6-95.PMC3214811.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4345196", "abstract": "Objective Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) have proven effects in pathogenesis of neuroinflammation after spinal cord injury (SCI). Current study is designed to evaluate the effects of an anti-TNF-α agent, adalimumab, on spinal cord clip compression injury in rats. Methods Thirty two male adult Wistar rats were divided into four groups (sham, trauma, infliximab, and adalimumab groups) and SCI was introduced using an aneurysm clip. Animals in treatment groups received 5 mg/kg subcutaneous adalimumab and infliximab right after the trauma. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were studied in traumatized spinal cord tissues 72 hours after the injury as a marker of lipid peroxidation. Results Animals that received anti-TNF-α agents are found to have significantly decreased MDA levels. MDA levels were significantly different between the trauma and infliximab groups (p<0.01) and trauma and adalimumab groups (p=0.022). There was no significant difference in neurological evaluation of the rats using Tarlov scale. Conclusion These results suggest that, like infliximab, adalimumab has favorable effects on lipid peroxidation induced by spinal cord trauma in rats.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ad/56/jkns-57-73.PMC4345196.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3901491", "abstract": "In 2012, a female wildlife biologist experienced fever, malaise, headache, generalized myalgia and arthralgia, neck stiffness, and a sore throat shortly after returning to the United States from a 6-week field expedition to South Sudan and Uganda. She was hospitalized, after which a maculopapular rash developed and became confluent. When the patient was discharged from the hospital on day 14, arthralgia and myalgia had improved, oropharynx ulcerations had healed, the rash had resolved without desquamation, and blood counts and hepatic enzyme levels were returning to reference levels. After several known suspect pathogens were ruled out as the cause of her illness, deep sequencing and metagenomics analysis revealed a novel paramyxovirus related to rubula-like viruses isolated from fruit bats.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/04/3e/PMC3901491.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5053924", "abstract": "The objectives of the present study were to investigate the change in the number of viable pathogens during preservation of milk obtained from cows with subclinical mastitis and the association between the decreasing ratio of viable bacteria during preservation and the somatic cell count (SCC) and the values of lingual antimicrobial peptide (LAP), lactoferrin (LF) and lactoperoxidase (LPO). After preservation of milk at room temperature for 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 hr, the bacterial colonies in the milk were counted to determine the number of colony forming units (CFUs). Fresh skim milk was used to determine the values of LAP, LPO and LF. Bacteria were not detected in 19.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/16/60/jvms-78-1245.PMC5053924.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4497989", "abstract": "The clinical course of a patient with a left ventricular assist device is described. A total of 6 weeks after device insertion, the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level increased to 2801 U/l despite adding low-molecular-weight heparin to acenocoumarol and aspirin. Pump thrombosis was suspected but unconfirmed by computed tomography. Increased pump power requirement did not occur. Instituting unfractionated heparin caused a drop in the LDH level. After discontinuing heparin, the LDH levels rose to 5529 U/l whereupon pump replacement was performed. LDH levels, combined with clinical deterioration and right heart catheterisation, led to the diagnosis of pump thrombosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fa/3a/PMC4497989.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3994847", "abstract": "Objective To determine if IndiGO individualized clinical guidelines could be implemented in routine practice and assess their effects on care and care experience. Methods Matched comparison observational design. IndiGO individualized guidelines, based on a biomathematical simulation model, were used in shared decision-making. Physicians and patients viewed risk estimates and tailored recommendations in a dynamic user interface and discussed them for 5–10 min. Outcome measures were prescribing and dispensing of IndiGO-recommended medications, changes in physiological markers and predicted 5-year risk of heart attack and stroke, and physician and patient perceptions. Results 489 patients using IndiGO were 4.9 times more likely to receive a statin prescription than were matched usual care controls (p=0.015). No effect was observed on prescribing of antihypertensive medications, but IndiGO-using patients were more likely to pick up at least one dispensing (p<0.05). No significant changes were observed in blood pressure or serum lipid levels. Predicted risk of heart attack or stroke decreased 1.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cf/bc/amiajnl-2012-001595.PMC3994847.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2646308", "abstract": "Bacterial virulence factors enable a host to replicate and disseminate within a host in part by subverting or eluding host defenses. The use of genomic techniques has led to the identification of new virulence factors that may serve as targets for new therapies. These putative virulence factors must be rigorously evaluated with in vitro and in vivo studies with an awareness of the technical limitations of each approach as well as an assessment of the prevalence of this factor in clinical bacterial isolates retrieved from appropriately controlled epidemiologic studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bf/fd/PMC2646308.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4820187", "abstract": "Introduction Exercise tolerance testing is an integral part of the pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) management of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The 6-minute stepper test (6MST) is a new, well-tolerated, reproducible exercise test, which can be performed without any spatial constraints. Objective The aim of this study was to compare the results of the 6MST to those obtained during a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) in a cohort of COPD patients. Methods Ninety-one COPD patients managed by outpatient PR and assessed by 6MST, 6MWT, and CPET were retrospectively included in this study. Correlations between the number of steps on the 6MST, the distance covered on the 6MWT, oxygen consumption, and power at the ventilatory threshold and at maximum effort during CPET were analyzed before starting PR, and the improvement on the 6MST and 6MWT was compared after PR. Results The number of steps on the 6MST was significantly correlated with the distance covered on the 6MWT (r=0.56; P<0.0001), the power at maximum effort (r=0.46; P<0.0001), and oxygen consumption at maximum effort (r=0.39; P<0.005). Performances on the 6MST and 6MWT were significantly improved after PR (570 vs 488 steps, P=0.001 and 448 vs 406 m, respectively; P<0.0001). Improvements of the 6MST and 6MWT after PR were significantly correlated (r=0.34; P=0.03). Conclusion The results of this study show that the 6MST is a valid test to evaluate exercise tolerance in COPD patients. The use of this test in clinical practice appears to be particularly relevant for the assessment of patients managed by home PR.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/51/copd-11-657.PMC4820187.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2798102", "abstract": "Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) is an important novel target in cancer therapy. This enzyme is essential in the repair of single-stranded breaks in DNA via the base excision repair pathway. Drugs which inhibit PARP are emerging as a promising new class of anticancer agents particularly effective against tumors which have lost homologous recombination (HR) through loss of functional BRCA1 and BRCA2. PARP inhibitors potentially represent a major breakthrough for patients with hereditary BRCA-associated cancers. Furthermore their role in sporadic epithelial ovarian cancer is emerging with identification of additional subpopulations of women who may benefit a priority. This paper will summarize the mechanism of action of PARP inhibition and its role in the treatment of BRCA1- and 2-associated cancers. We will then expand on the broader relevance and future directions for PARP inhibition in the clinical setting.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/1f/PMC2798102.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5343091", "abstract": "Radial head excision has always been a safe commonly used surgical procedure with a satisfactory clinical outcome for isolated comminuted radial head fractures. However, diagnosis of elbow instability is still very challenging and often underestimated in routine orthopaedic evaluation. We present the case of a 21-years old female treated with excision after radial head fracture, resulting in elbow instability. The patient underwent revision surgery after four weeks. We believe that ligament reconstruction without radial head substitution is a safe alternative choice for Mason III radial head fractures accompanied by complex ligament lesions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/88/main.PMC5343091.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3332203", "abstract": "Disadvantaged populations across the globe exhibit a disproportionate burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) because of differences in CKD occurrence and outcomes. Although many CKD risk factors can be managed and modified to optimize clinical outcomes, the prevailing socioeconomic and cultural factors in disadvantaged populations, more often than not, militate against optimum clinical outcomes. In addition, disadvantaged populations exhibit a broader spectrum of CKD risk factors and may be genetically predisposed to an earlier onset and a more rapid progression of chronic kidney disease. A basic understanding of the vulnerabilities of the disadvantaged populations will facilitate the adaptation and adoption of the kidney disease treatment and prevention guidelines for these vulnerable populations. The purpose of this paper is to examine recent discoveries and data on CKD occurrence and outcomes in disadvantaged populations and explore strategies for the prevention and treatment of CKD in these populations based on the established guidelines.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/b7/PMC3332203.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5045239", "abstract": "Background Coma’s are a major cause of clinical deterioration or death. Identification of risks that predispose to coma are important in managing patients; however, the risk factors for nosocomial nontraumatic coma (NNC) are not well known. Our aim was to investigate the risk factors in patients with NNC. Methods A retrospective case–control design was used to compare patients with NNC and a control group of patients without coma in a population-based cohort of 263 participants from the neurological intensive care unit in Shuyang County People’s Hospital of Northern China. Coma was diagnosed by a Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤8. Adjusted odds ratios for patients with NNC were derived from multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results A total of 96 subjects had NNC. The prevalence of NNC was 36.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/d1/jmdh-9-463.PMC5045239.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3749406", "abstract": "Lichen genus Sarcographa Fee, a stromatoid Graphidacean taxa, was newly found in Geomun Island, Jeonnam province. The lichen grew on the bark of Camellia japonica and Eurya emarginata along the coastal line of the island. It was identified as Sarcographa tricosa (Ach.) Müll. Arg. for the first time in Korea.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/c9/mb-37-152.PMC3749406.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4644582", "abstract": "Background: Excellence and quality models are comprehensive methods for improving the quality of healthcare. The aim of this study was to design excellence and quality model for training centers of primary health care using Delphi method. Methods: In this study, Delphi method was used. First, comprehensive information were collected using literature review. In extracted references, 39 models were identified from 34 countries and related sub-criteria and standards were extracted from 34 models (from primary 39 models). Then primary pattern including 8 criteria, 55 sub-criteria, and 236 standards was developed as a Delphi questionnaire and evaluated in four stages by 9 specialists of health care system in Tabriz and 50 specialists from all around the country. Results: Designed primary model (8 criteria, 55 sub-criteria, and 236 standards) were concluded with 8 criteria, 45 sub-criteria, and 192 standards after 4 stages of evaluations by specialists. Major criteria of the model are leadership, strategic and operational planning, resource management, information analysis, human resources management, process management, costumer results, and functional results, where the top score was assigned as 1000 by specialists. Functional results had the maximum score of 195 whereas planning had the minimum score of 60. Furthermore the most and the least sub-criteria was for leadership with 10 sub-criteria and strategic planning with 3 sub-criteria, respectively. Conclusion: The model that introduced in this research has been designed following 34 reference models of the world. This model could provide a proper frame for managers of health system in improving quality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/92/47/PMC4644582.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3008833", "abstract": "Although dextrocardia occurs rarely, the incidence of coronary artery disease is similar to the general population. Because of unfamiliarity with performing catheterization, transradial coronary angiography has seldom been performed in a patient with dextrocardia. We successfully performed left transradial coronary angiography in a patient with a right side heart using counter-directional torquing of the catheters and mirror-image angiographic angles.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/c7/kcj-40-601.PMC3008833.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2989697", "abstract": " Background. D-dimer is associated with increasing severity of atherosclerosis and with increased risk of a cardiovascular disease (CVD).  Methods and Results. To better understand this risk factor, we performed a genome scan on 803 (301 males and 502 females) Mexican Americans in the San Antonio Family Heart Study (SAFHS). The SAFHS is ideal for the discovery of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) influencing CVD because CVD risk factors are prevalent in Mexican Americans of San Antonio and because the study design involves large families, which is optimal for QTL discovery.  D-dimer levels were normalized in our study. We found that D-dimer levels were heritable, at about 23", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a6/55/PMC2989697.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3237023", "abstract": "We review here our experiences with the in vitro reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and subsequent in vitro development of hematopoietic cells from these iPSC and from embryonic stem cells (ESC). While, in principle, the in vitro reprogramming and subsequent differentiation can generate hematopoietic cell from any somatic cells, it is evident that many of the steps in this process need to be significantly improved before it can be applied to human cells and used in clinical settings of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5f/f5/PMC3237023.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3270487", "abstract": "Ageing is defined as a slow, irreversible process of cellular changes, that are due to a lack of balance between degradation and repair, a continuous interaction between physiological and pathological processes. Physiological aspects in elderly people are often confused with disease. Given these general considerations, we would make observations about the dynamics of cortisol secretion in healthy elderly subjects and patients with a diagnosed cardiovascular disease, more precisely hypertension. The study was conducted during 2003–2010, on a number of 135 patients older than 65 years of age, who were divided into two groups: one group counting 66 patients and consisting of healthy elderly controls (without systemic disease, renal, endocrine, or cardiovascular known issues) and group 2 who consists of 69 elderly patients who associate known hypertensive and other cardiovascular issues.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2b/bc/PMC3270487.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3505936", "abstract": "Common blood disorders include hematopoietic cell malignancies or leukemias and plasma cell dyscrasia, all of which have associated microRNA abnormalities. In this paper, we discuss several leukemias including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and identify altered microRNAs and their targets. Immune disorders with altered blood levels of antibodies include autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with associated anti-self-autoantibodies and immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) also have related microRNA abnormalities. The alterations in microRNAs may serve as therapeutic targets in these blood disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f5/e8/PMC3505936.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4020170", "abstract": "To compare the progression of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in patients who required Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy following either combined cataract surgery with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV; C-CV), sequential cataract surgery after PPV (S-CV), or cataract surgery alone (CA). The medical records of 321 patients (408 eyes) who underwent Nd:YAG capsulotomy were retrospectively evaluated. The CA group had a significantly longer time interval from cataract surgery to capsulotomy than that of both the CV group (P = 0.006) and the S-CV (P = 0.013) and C-CV (P = 0.042) subgroups when age-matched comparisons were used. CV patients who implanted a hydrophobic acrylic IOL had shorter time intervals than those of CA patients (P = 0.028). CV patients had larger hazard of earlier capsulotomy than CA patients (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.337; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/85/c4/PMC4020170.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4289845", "abstract": "Selenium is an essential trace mineral of fundamental importance to human healthy and exerts its biological function through selenoproteins. In particular, Selenoprotein M (SELM) is located in the endoplasmic reticulum and contains the common redox motif of cysteine-X-X-selenocysteine type. It attracts great attention due to its high expression in brain and its potential roles as antioxidant, neuroprotective, and cytosolic calcium regulator. Recently, our group found SELM over-expression in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines. In this report some paraffin-embedded tissues from liver biopsy of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis and HCC were immunohistochemically stained and SELM expression scoring was evaluated. Our results evidence for the first time an increase of SELM expression in HCC liver tissues, and its gradual expression raise associated with an increased malignancy grade. Therefore, we propose to use i) SELM as putative marker for HCC as well as ii) simple immunohistochemistry technique to distinguish between the different grades of malignancy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/53/ejh-2014-4-2433.PMC4289845.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3108721", "abstract": "The aim of this biomedical trial was to clarify the physiological role of procalcitonin (PCT) in renal parenchyma apoptosis and fibrosis caused by acute childhood pyelonephritis. This prospective study enrolled 183 children. All children were treated with bi-therapy according to the French consensus on acute pyelonephritis treatment dated November 16, 1990: intra-vascular administration of ceftriaxone 50 mg/kg/day and netromicine 7 mg/kg/day during the first 48 hours, followed by specific antibiotherapy suited to antibiogram. On admission, PCT, C-reactive protein, and phospholipase A2 were quantified in serum. Scintigraphy monitoring with 99mTc-DMSA was performed on day 4 and 9 months later, in the presence of persistent abnormalities. On day 4, 78", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d5/9f/PMC3108721.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4749001", "abstract": "This review concentrates on the biology of long-term denervated muscle, especially as it relates to newer techniques for restoring functional mass. After denervation, muscle passes through three stages: 1) immediate loss of voluntary function and rapid loss of mass, 2) increasing atrophy and loss of sarcomeric organization, and 3) muscle fiber degeneration and replacement of muscle by fibrous connective tissue and fat. Parallel to the overall program of atrophy and degeneration is the proliferation and activation of satellite cells, and the appearance of neomyogenesis within the denervated muscle. Techniques such as functional electrical stimulation take advantage of this capability to restore functional mass to a denervated muscle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/49/ejtm-2014-1-3293.PMC4749001.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4566770", "abstract": "Aim: Preparation of daily traditional drink by the indigenous tribes is a common phenomenon in India. Oraon tribes in Malda district of West Bengal, India are very much practiced in making of their own native brew, known as Chullu. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the whole Chullu procedure technology of the region and its socioeconomic effect on Oraon. Ethnomedicinal investigation of local plants involved in Chullu preparation was another aspect of this study. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted from April 2012 to June 2013. Consecutive field surveys were performed to collect information from Chullu producers to focus the procedure technology of local brew by means of semi-structured individual interviews, informal interviews and group discussion. A semi-structured questionnaire process was also performed to obtain the information regarding the ethnic use of plant species involved in Chullu preparation. Results: The present study revealed that four medicinal plant species along with rice having strong local ethnomedicinal value were used to prepare this indigenous drink. Oraon prepare the brew using their unique home-made distillation process. Commercialization of this local brew represents an alternative income to develop their economic condition, especially for poor households. The index of importance value was considered to evaluate the importance, usage, and knowledge of the five studied species. Conclusion: It could be concluded that practices of Chullu preparation represent a bonding between ethnic knowledge and Oraon people of the province. Commercialization of Chullu may be considered as a source of alternative way of income for poor households in the region.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/b2/JIE-4-34.PMC4566770.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4130201", "abstract": " Obejective. To examine the discriminatory power of triglyceride (TG) and triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (TG/HDL-C) for insulin resistance (IR) in a normoglycaemic Chinese population. Methods. The data were collected from 711 individuals. The normoglycaemic individuals were eventually included in the study (n = 533, age: 62.8 ± 6.6 years, male: 56.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/37/PMC4130201.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5410431", "abstract": "Objectives The aim of this study was to compare the mechanical resistance of four different osteosyntheses modeled in two different sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) designs and to determine the linear loading in a universal testing machine. Materials and Methods An in vitro experiment was conducted with 40 polyurethane hemimandibles. The samples were divided into two groups based on osteotomy design; Group I, right angles between osteotomies and Group II, no right angles between osteotomies. In each group, the hemimandibles were distributed into four subgroups according to the osteosynthesis method, using one 4-hole 2.0 mm conventional or locking plate, with or without one bicortical screw with a length of 12.0 mm (hybrid technique). Each subgroup contained five samples and was subjected to a linear loading test in a universal testing machine. Results The peak load and peak displacement were compared for statistical significance using PASW Statistics 18.0 (IBM Co., USA). In general, there was no difference between the peak load and peak displacement related to osteotomy design. However, when the subgroups were compared, the osteotomy without right angles offered higher mechanical resistance when one conventional or locking 2.0 mm plate was used. One locking plate with one bicortical screw showed higher mechanical resistance (162.72±42.55 N), and these results were statistically significantly compared to one conventional plate with monocortical screws (P=0.016) and one locking plate with monocortical screws (P=0.012). The difference in peak displacement was not statistically significant based on osteotomy design or internal fixation system configuration. Conclusion The placement of one bicortical screw in the distal region promoted better stabilization of SSRO. The osteotomy design did not influence the mechanical behavior of SSRO when the hybrid technique was applied.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/02/jkaoms-43-77.PMC5410431.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3075145", "abstract": "Numerous procedures have been developed to provide adequate enteral nutrition to patients with gastrointestinal disorders. Previously, operative placement of a feeding gastrostomy or jejunostomy tube was the accepted means of gaining chronic enteral access. However, improved technology and experience with endoscopic techniques have quickly replaced primary operative placement of enteral access. Direct percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy (D-PEJ) is a procedure that was designed to deliver enteral feeding solutions for patients with proximal disease after unsatisfactory results from percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes with jejunal extensions (PEG-J). As with any procedure, it is associated with complications. We present the first reported case of a colojejunal fistula resulting from a D-PEJ placement. While D-PEJ has been shown to be relatively safe, complications related to the inherent limitations of the procedure need to be considered when the patient experiences unusual post-procedure symptoms and worked up appropriately.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/7c/crg0002-0208.PMC3075145.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3998846", "abstract": "Purpose The purpose of this report is to highlight the potential risk of noncontact tonometry after routine uncomplicated penetrating keratoplasty (PK). Case report After uncomplicated PK for keratoconus, routine noncontact tonometry was performed on the second postoperative day. In spite of the adequately closed wound and the tight suture, temporary wound dehiscence occurred, and two-thirds of the anterior chamber was occupied by air. The running suture remained intact, and the Seidel test was negative. One week postoperatively, the patient’s corrected distance visual acuity was 0.4 (0.4 logMAR), and the air bubble had absorbed. Conclusion This is the first report to conclude that noncontact tonometry may not be sufficiently safe in the early postoperative period in normal PK cases. To prevent possible wound opening, we suggest the use of other tonometry methods during the first several months after PK.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1d/36/opth-8-763.PMC3998846.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4793032", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study was performed in order to investigate the grip strength of the unaffected hand of hemiplegic post-stroke patients. [Subjects] This study conducted on 83 hemiplegic post-stroke patients from May to August 2012. [Methods] This study was measured the mean grip strength of the unaffected hand of patients with hemiplegia and comparatively analyzed this with the mean normal grip strength. [Results] The grip strength of the unaffected hand of patients with hemiplegia was weaker compared to the of normal. [Conclusion] Patients with hemiplegia demonstrated problems in both their unaffected and affected sides. Based on the results of this study, it is necessary to expand treatment from the affected to unaffected areas of patients with hemiplegia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/3c/jpts-28-677.PMC4793032.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5434868", "abstract": "Abstract Aims To investigate the relationships between age at diagnosis of diabetes, age at diabetic eye screening and severity of diabetic retinopathy at first and subsequent screenings in children aged 12 or 13 years. Methods Data were extracted from four English screening programmes and from the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish programmes on all children with diabetes invited for their first and subsequent screening episodes from the age of 12 years. Retinopathy levels at first and subsequent screens, time from diagnosis of diabetes to first screening and age at diagnosis in years were calculated. Results Data were available for 2125 children with diabetes screened for the first time at age 12 or 13 years. In those diagnosed with diabetes at 2 years of age or less, the proportion with retinopathy in one or both eyes was 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4f/c6/DME-33-1655.PMC5434868.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2948260", "abstract": "Although the ability to perceive simple shapes emerges in infancy, the ability to recognize individual objects as well as adults do continues to develop through childhood into adolescence. Despite this slow development, recent neuroimaging studies have revealed that an area of the ventral visual cortex that responds selectively to the category of common objects is adult-like by 5-8 years of age. The challenge for future research will be to identify the specific visual skills involved in object recognition that continue to develop through childhood and adolescence, and the neural mechanisms underlying this protracted development.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/46/1757-594X-0001-0000000056.PMC2948260.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3714122", "abstract": "Incorporating ethics education in curriculum of medical technology students and highlighting the importance of teaching the subject to this particular population in this part of world are our aims. At SIUT we have a school with name of “Zain ul Abidin” school of Biomedical Technology, which is supposed to award B.S. degree in 5 sub-specialties that is hemodialysis, radiology, laboratory sciences, operation theater technology and intensive care technology. This school is affiliated by Karachi University. The students entering in school have done fellow in science (F.Sc.)with pre-medical group, thus have background knowledge of biology, physics, chemistry, languages, religion and Pakistan studies. Here for B.S. included in their curriculum are the subjects of anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, pharmacology, pathology, Islamiat and English for all and then related sub-specialty topics to each group for example student in hemodialysis group more exposed to nephrology topics etc. I planned to add ethics with subjects, which are common to all specialties and designed curriculum. Curriculum was approved (after minor changes), from Karachi University and I started teaching ethics to these students. This paper highlights methods and tools of teaching and evaluation and results observed. This will be the first examination in bioethics from medical technologists, at university level in the history of country. This is a great achievement in country to start teaching bioethics to medical technologists. Karachi University has implemented the same curriculum to other medical technology schools affiliated with University.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/0d/jmehm-2-8.PMC3714122.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5083863", "abstract": "In the European Union, the classification of shellfish harvesting areas depends on levels of Escherichia coli checked in shellfish flesh and determines whether post-harvest treatment required before shellfish can be sold for human consumption. Nevertheless, intermittent sources of contamination, such as rainfall and runoff from agricultural and urban lands, may give rise to seasonal variations of E. coli concentration, hence an annual classification could not be correct. In this study, we investigated the microbial trend in clams (Chamelea gallina) harvested from the district of San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy. The Algaeadria database, a monitoring network for the whole Adriatic area, provided results from 2005 to 2012. E. coli values compliant and non-compliant with food safety criteria were evaluated by graphical data analysis tools and one-tailed Fisher’s exact test. The results showed a clear general seasonal trend and, in one of the considered areas, the non-compliant values from July to February were significantly lower than those from March to June (P<0.05). These findings may scientifically support a seasonal classification.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/d1/ijfs-2014-2-1645.PMC5083863.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3503286", "abstract": "Liver transplantation is the treatment of choice for selected patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on a background of chronic liver disease. Liver resection or locoregional ablative therapies may be indicated for patients with preserved synthetic function without significant portal hypertension. Milan criteria were introduced to select suitable patients for liver transplant with low risk of tumor recurrence and 5-year survival in excess of 70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4a/0a/PMC3503286.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649565", "abstract": "We report a case of optimal quinary debulking for recurrent papillary serous carcinoma of the ovary involving the liver parenchyma through the full thickness of the diaphragm into the lung parenchyma. Multiple debulking procedures for ovarian cancer are controversial, especially when there is extensive upper abdominal or thoracic disease. Selection criteria for such extensive surgery include: good functional status, long disease-free interval, and absence of other systemic disease. Our patient tolerated her procedure well without evidence of residual disease over 6 months postoperatively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/52/d2/PMC3649565.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3927566", "abstract": " Background. In lumbar disc herniation, most authors recommend nonoperative treatment for the first few weeks of presentation, but what about the upper limit of this golden period? The aim of this study is to assess the effect of preoperative sciatica duration on surgical outcome of lumbar disc herniation. Methods. We retrospectively evaluated 240 patients (124 males and 116 females) with a mean age of 36.4 ± 5.9 years (range 16 to 63) surgically treated due to primary stable L4-L5 disc herniation. The patients were placed into two groups: with more and less than 12-month duration of preoperative sciatalgia. Disability and pain were measured by Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Wilcoxon test and Mann-Whitney U test were used for statistical analysis. Results. Total mean duration of preoperative sciatalgia and follow-up period were 13.3 months (range 2 to 65) and 33.7 ± 5.1 months (range 24 to 72), respectively. Comparison between the groups showed that duration of preoperative sciatalgia either less or more than 12 months did not affect the surgical outcomes significantly. Conclusions. More or less than 12-month duration of preoperative sciatalgia may not affect the surgical outcomes of simple lumbar disc herniation in the patients undergoing discectomy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dc/a0/PMC3927566.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3921797", "abstract": "Introduction A prostate biopsy can result in such complications as: hematuria, rectal bleeding, pain in hypogastrium, perineum or urethra, fever, nausea, vomiting, retention of urine or other adverse events. The aim of this research was to estimate complication rates after a prostate biopsy based on the number of cores. Material and methods The complication rate was evaluated on the basis of questionnaires filled out by patients. Questions were related to the occurrence of mentioned complications on the first and second day after prostate biopsy. Patients were divided into two groups: 1st group (41 patients) 5-8 cores and 2nd group (73 patients) 12 or more cores. Results There was no significant statistical difference in the occurrence of complications mentioned in the questionnaires in both groups. The biggest difference was recorded for hematuria – 1st day: 39", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/55/CEJU-65-00196.PMC3921797.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2729907", "abstract": "Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) is an acute complication mostly occurring in elderly type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Thyrotoxicosis causes dramatic increase of glycogen degradation and/or gluconeogenesis and enhances breakdown of triglycerides. Thus, in general, it augments glucose intolerance in diabetic patients. A 23-yr-old female patient with Graves' disease and type 2 DM, complying with methimazole and insulin injection, had symptoms of nausea, polyuria and generalized weakness. Her serum glucose and osmolarity were 32.7 mM/L, and 321 mosm/kg, respectively. Thyroid function tests revealed that she had more aggravated hyperthyroid status; 0.01 mU/L TSH and 2.78 pM/L free T3 (reference range, 0.17-4.05, 0.31-0.62, respectively) than when she was discharged two weeks before (0.12 mU/L TSH and 1.41 pM/L free T3). Being diagnosed as HHS and refractory Graves' hyperthyroidism, she was treated successfully with intravenous fluids, insulin and high doses of methimazole (90 mg daily). Here, we described the case of a woman with Graves' disease and type 2 DM developing to HHS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/65/jkms-21-765.PMC2729907.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4644782", "abstract": "PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to mix dental ceramic powder in varying ratios and evaluate the effect of the mixing ratio on color and translucency. MATERIALS AND METHODS The ceramic powder of shade A3 of the same product was mixed with the shade A2 of three products: IPS e.max Ceram (Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein), Vintage Halo (SHOFU Inc., Kyoto, Japan), and Ceramco 3 (Ceramco-Dentsply, Burlington, NJ, USA) in the following fixed ratios (0 wt", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/46/67/jap-7-400.PMC4644782.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5279846", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the safety and efficacy of staining the posterior capsule with trypan blue during capsulorhexis in pediatric cataract surgery. Patients and methods This was a prospective randomized comparative study carried out at Alpha Vision Center, Zagazig, Egypt. This study included 2 groups of children with pediatric cataract randomly allocated to undergo irrigation and aspiration. In the trypan group, which included 11 eyes, trypan blue was used to stain the posterior capsule during posterior capsulorhexis. In the control group, which included 10 eyes, no staining was performed. All surgeries were performed by the same surgeon. The 2 groups were compared for criteria such as completion of capsulorhexis, disruption of vitreous face and in-the-bag intraocular lens implantation. Results This study included 21 eyes of 16 patients (age range: 6 months–4 years). A statistically significant difference was observed for the following parameters between the 2 groups: capsulorhexis completion (P=0.04), vitreous face disruption (P=0.01) and in-the-bag intraocular lens implantation (P=0.022). Conclusion This study suggests that staining of the posterior capsule during capsulorhexis in pediatric cataract operation gives better results than capsulorhexis without staining. The stain changes the capsule texture making capsulorhexis easier with fewer complications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/28/opth-11-219.PMC5279846.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4968513", "abstract": "[Purpose] Differences in scores on the Functional Movement Screen between patients with chronic lower back pain and healthy control subjects were investigated. [Subjects and Methods] In all, 20 chronic lower back pain patients and 20 healthy control subjects were recruited. Chronic lower back pain patients and healthy controls performed the Functional Movement Screen (deep squat, hurdle step, inline lunge, shoulder mobility, active straight leg raise, trunk stability pushup, and rotary stability). The Mann-Whitney test was used to analyze differences in Functional Movement Screen scores between the two groups. [Results] Chronic lower back pain patients scored lower on the Functional Movement Screen total composite compared with healthy control subjects. Chronic lower back pain patients scored lower on Functional Movement Screen subtests including the deep squat, hurdle step, active straight leg raise, and rotary stability tests. [Conclusion] The deep squat, hurdle step, active straight leg raise, and rotary stability tasks of the Functional Movement Screen can be recommended as a functional assessment tools to identify functional deficits in chronic lower back pain patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/a2/jpts-28-2094.PMC4968513.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4278483", "abstract": "Students often struggle with weighing multiple sides of bioethical dilemmas. The assignment described here incorporates discussion of ethical dilemmas in an upper-level undergraduate biology course. Students are introduced to ethical dilemmas in genetics through discussion of issues in small groups. They are then polled as to what positions they take on each dilemma and are assigned to argue a side opposite of one of their choices. Each student receives a subpoena to appear before a Senate subcommittee to give testimony as an expert witness. This role-play provides students with a starting point and motivation for developing their argument as well as a way to distance themselves from their own opinions by acting as someone holding the opposite stance. At the end of the presentations, students are required to reflect on the experience.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/c7/jmbe-15-227.PMC4278483.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3780521", "abstract": "Immunization with a pandemic influenza A H1N1 2009 was recommended for HIV-infected patients. However, there is limited information concerning the impact of immunization with this vaccine on immune activation and HIV viral replication. In this study, 45 HIV-infected children and adolescents receiving antiretroviral therapy were immunized with a 2-dose series of nonadjuvated monovalent influenza A H1N1 2009 vaccine upon enrollment and approximately 1 month later. Immunogenicity was determined by haemagglutination inhibition assay. The level of immune activation was determined by identification of CD38 and HLA-DR on CD8+ T cells. Patients were divided into 2 groups which include patients who had an undetectable HIV viral load (HIV detectable group) and patients who show virological failure (HIV nondetectable group). The results showed seroconversion rate of 55.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/ff/PMC3780521.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4780119", "abstract": "Colletotrichum falcatum, a concealed fungal ascomycete causes red rot, which is a serious disease in sugarcane. It infects economically important stalk tissues, considered as store house of sugar in sugarcane. The study is to find genetic complexities of C. falcatum in establishing this as a stalk infecting pathogen and to decipher the unique lifestyle of this pathogen using NGS technology. We report the draft genome of C. falcatum of about 48.16 Mb in size with 12,270 genes. The genome sequences were compared with other fungal species which revealed that C. falcatum is closely related to C. graminicola and C.sublineola the causal organisms of anthracnose in maize and sorghum. These results brought a new revelation to explore the lifestyle of this unique pathogen which is specialized to infect sugarcane stalk tissues in detail.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/00/fc/PMC4780119.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2828096", "abstract": "Inoculation of influenza (H5N1) into beagles resulted in virus excretion and rapid seroconversion with no disease. Binding studies that used labeled influenza (H5N1) showed virus attachment to higher and lower respiratory tract tissues. Thus, dogs that are subclinically infected with influenza (H5N1) may contribute to virus spread.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6b/24/PMC2828096.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4895614", "abstract": "Background Quality of life (QOL) is an important consideration in healthcare decision‐making for pets with cancer. To determine the effect of disease and treatment on pet QOL, this important variable should be objectively measured as an outcome in veterinary cancer studies. Objectives To determine the prevalence and methodology of QOL measurement in a sample of recently published reports of prospective studies evaluating cancer treatments in client‐owned dogs and cats; to characterize reporting of QOL outcomes and to identify article characteristics associated with QOL measurement. Methods English‐language reports of prospective studies of cancer treatments in dogs and cats published from 2008 to 2013 were identified using medical research databases combined with a hand‐searching strategy. Data pertaining to general article characteristics and QOL measurement were abstracted and summarized. Results Reports of 144 eligible studies were identified. QOL was measured in 16 (11.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/25/82/PMC4895614.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5216154", "abstract": "Structural and functional abnormalities of the prefrontal cortex seem to correlate with fatigue in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). We consecutively applied facilitatory high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) of seven CFS patients over three days. Five patients completed the 3-day protocol without any adverse events. For the other two patients, we had to reduce the stimulation intensity in response to mild adverse reactions. In most of the patients, treatment resulted in an improvement of fatigue symptoms. High-frequency rTMS applied over the DLPFC can therefore be a potentially useful therapy for CFS patients. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/92/1349-7235-55-3515.PMC5216154.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3467942", "abstract": " Purpose. The immunological mechanisms of peri-implant crestal bone loss have, hitherto, not been elucidated. We hypothesized that bacterial products from the microgap cause upregulation of cytokines in otherwise healthy peri-implant cells, which results in osteoclast formation and, ultimately, in bone resorption. Materials and Methods. We used RT-PCR and ELISA to assay mediators of osteoclastogenesis in rat and human macrophages (r-and hMO); bone marrow derived stromal cells (r-and hBMCs); and human gingival fibroblasts (hGF)—with or without stimulation by LPS. TRAP positive multinucleate cells were assessed for their resorptive ability. Results. We show that IL-1α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were expressed by all examined cell types, and TNF-α was upregulated in hGF. Secretion of IL-1α and IL-1β proteins was stimulated in hMO by LPS, and IL-6 protein secretion was highly stimulated in hBMCs and hGF. Both LPS and RANKL stimulated macrophages to form osteoclast-like TRAP positive cells, which resorbed calcium phosphate substrates. Conclusion. Taken together, the results of our study support the hypothesis that bacterial endotoxins upregulate enhanced mediators of osteoclastogenesis in resident cells found in the healthy peri-implant compartment and that the local synergistic action of cytokines secreted by such cells results in the genesis of resorptively active osteoclasts.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/68/b7/PMC3467942.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4360353", "abstract": "Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LMC) from gastrointestinal cancer would be rare. A 56-years old man with complaint of dyspepsia and histopathologic examination of the biopsy specimens has shown: adenocarcinoma. At the end of adjuvant chemo radiation therapy, the patient has affected by headache and mild confusion. In cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytology, a plenty of malignant cells have seen and unfortunately after a short time for about 4 days after ICU admission, the patient has died. This could be due to heavy burden of disease in central nervous system.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/90/c9/IJCP-08-060.PMC4360353.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4898313", "abstract": "Objective: Our prespecified dose-response analyses of A Very Early Rehabilitation Trial (AVERT) aim to provide practical guidance for clinicians on the timing, frequency, and amount of mobilization following acute stroke. Methods: Eligible patients were aged ≥18 years, had confirmed first (or recurrent) stroke, and were admitted to a stroke unit within 24 hours of stroke onset. Patients were randomized to receive very early and frequent mobilization, commencing within 24 hours, or usual care. We used regression analyses and Classification and Regression Trees (CART) to investigate the effect of timing and dose of mobilization on efficacy and safety outcomes, irrespective of assigned treatment group. Results: A total of 2,104 patients were enrolled, of whom 2,083 (99.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/33/69/NEUROLOGY2015685206.PMC4898313.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4378501", "abstract": "During March 25–May 5, 2014, we investigated 11 outbreaks of peste des petits ruminants in Heilongjiang Province, China. We found that the most likely source of the outbreaks was animals from livestock markets in Shandong. Peste des petits ruminants viruses belonging to lineages II and IV were detected in sick animals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/db/5b/PMC4378501.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5220123", "abstract": "Abstract We report a rare case of a 46-year-old woman 2 weeks after a cesarean section with Pfannenstiel incision, who presented at the Emergency Department with a significant abdominal pain accompanied by two episodes of vomiting. After that a clinical examination and an abdominal computed tomography scan were completed, a visceral herniation through Pfannenstiel incision was suspected. The indication of surgical exploration was clear. Finally, the laparotomy revealed a linea arcuata hernia with a hernia of the small intestine. After a reduction of the hernia sac, the defect was repaired and no mesh was placed. An antibiotic treatment with co-amoxicillin for 1 week during the recovery was prescribed. The patient recovered uneventfully and could be discharged by postoperative day 7.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/ee/rjw230.PMC5220123.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4156980", "abstract": "The objective was to compare the impact of clinical and genetic factors on body mass index (BMI) in children with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) without severe obesity. A total of 1,119 children with T1DM (aged 4–18 years) were qualified to take part in the study. All children were genotyped for variants of FTO, MC4R, INSIG2, FASN, NPC1, PTER, SIRT1, MAF, IRT1, and CD36. Results. Variants of FTO showed significant association with BMI-SDS in the T1DM group. The main factors influencing BMI-SDS in children with T1DM included female gender (P = 0.0003), poor metabolic control (P = 0.0001), and carriage of the A allele of the FTO rs9939609 gene (P = 0.02). Conclusion. Our research indicates, when assessing, the risk of overweight and obesity carriage of the A allele in the rs9939609 site of the FTO gene adds to that of female gender and poor metabolic control. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01279161).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b4/cc/PMC4156980.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3977154", "abstract": "Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm is a rare, aggressive tumor characterized by skin and/or marrow infiltration by CD4+ CD56+ cells. Historically, the tumor was variably thought to arise from either monocytes, T cells or NK cells giving rise to terms such as CD4+/CD56+ acute monoblastic leukemia, primary cutaneous CD4+/CD56+ hematodermic tumor and blastic NK-cell lymphoma. Whilst considerable progress has been made in understanding the histogenesis, the best modality of treatment remains to be defined. We are therefore reporting this case which was successfully treated with a T-deplete allogeneic transplant and the patient is currently alive and in remission 4 years post transplant.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/ba/hr-2014-1-5119.PMC3977154.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649496", "abstract": "Desmoid tumours are a rare entity and are usually detected with a certain delay, as they initially often grow without causing any specific clinical symptoms. Although these tumours grow slowly and do not metastasise, their growth pattern remains aggressive and local tissue displacement or even destruction is common. Surgery remains the only potentially curative treatment option. Here we report on the findings of a 43-year old female patient with a large intra-abdominal desmoid tumour, resulting in the displacement of most intra-abdominal organs to the right of the patient’s abdominal cavity. She successfully underwent surgical removal of the mass and recovered without complications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8b/bd/PMC3649496.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2884218", "abstract": "Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has become an established clinical option for treatment of refractory chronic pain. Current hardware and implantation techniques for SCS are already highly developed and continuously improving; however, equipment failures over the course of long-term treatment are still encountered in a relatively high proportion of the cases treated with it. Percutaneous SCS leads seem to be particularly prone to dislocation and insulation failures. We describe our experience of lead breakage in the inserted spinal cord stimulator to a complex regional pain syndrome patient who obtained satisfactory pain relief after the revision of SCS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/bb/kjp-23-78.PMC2884218.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5424946", "abstract": "Aim To examine the relative cost-effectiveness of predictive genetic tests for familial breast and ovarian cancer provided by Genetic Services of Western Australia. Methods The relative cost-effectiveness was assessed using a decision analytic model. Results The cost and outcomes of genetic testing was compared in first-degree relatives of known BRCA1/2 mutation-carriers who have a 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/72/PMC5424946.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4502251", "abstract": "We report a 10-year-old boy with supratentorial cortical ependymoma that rapidly grew in the course of 3 years. He suffered generalized seizures when he was 5 years old; MRI showed a small cortical lesion in the right postcentral gyrus. MRI performed 2 years later revealed no changes. For the next 3 years he was free of seizures. However, at the age of 10 he again suffered generalized seizures and MRI disclosed a large parietal tumor. It was resected totally and he remains free of neurological deficits. The histopathological diagnosis was ependymoma. Pediatric supratentorial cortical ependymomas are extremely rare. We recommend including cortical ependymoma as a differential diagnosis in pediatric patients with cortical mass lesions presenting with seizures and careful follow-up even in the absence of symptoms because these tumors may progress.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6f/2b/jkns-57-487.PMC4502251.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3124675", "abstract": "Increasing blood pressure has a continuum of adverse risk for cardiovascular events. Traditionally this single measure was used to determine who to treat and how vigorously. However, estimating absolute risk rather than measurement of a single risk factor such as blood pressure is a superior method to identify who is most at risk of having an adverse cardiovascular event such as stroke or myocardial infarction, and therefore who would most likely benefit from therapeutic intervention. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk calculators must be used to estimate absolute risk in those without overt CVD as physician estimation is unreliable. Incorporation into usual practice and limitations of the strategy are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/38/92/PMC3124675.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC539974", "abstract": "In the past year, we at DDBJ (DNA Data Bank of Japan; http://www.ddbj.nig.ac.jp) collected and released 1 066 084 entries or 718 072 425 bases including the whole chromosome 22 of chimpanzee, the whole-genome shotgun sequences of silkworm and various others. On the other hand, we hosted workshops for human full-length cDNA annotation and participated in jamborees of mouse full-length cDNA annotation. The annotated data are made public at DDBJ. We are also in collaboration with a RIKEN team to accept and release the CAGE (Cap Analysis Gene Expression) data under a new category, MGA (Mass Sequences for Genome Annotation). The data will be useful for studying gene expression control in many aspects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/47/PMC539974.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3000136", "abstract": "Local transmission of dengue fever virus in Argentina is increased by the presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and dengue outbreaks in neighboring countries. From 1995 to 2001, a laboratory-based active surveillance program detected 922 dengue cases. Indigenous transmission involving dengue-1 and -2 serotypes was confirmed only in subtropical areas in northern Argentina.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/aa/17/PMC3000136.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3544343", "abstract": "Background Radium-223 chloride (223Ra; Alpharadin) is an alpha-emitting radioisotope that targets areas of osteoblastic metastasis and is excreted by the small intestine. When compared with beta-emitters (eg, strontium-89, samarium-153), 223Ra delivers a high quantity of energy per track length with short tissue penetration. Objective This review describes the mechanism, radiobiology, and preclinical development of 223Ra and discusses the clinical data currently available regarding its safety and efficacy profile. Methods Data from clinical trials including abstracts were collected and reviewed using the PubMed Database, as well as the American Society of Clinical Oncology abstract database. Conclusion Current bone-targeted therapies fall into two main categories: antiresorptive agents (eg, zoledronic acid, denosumab), which have been shown to delay skeletal-related events, and radiopharmaceuticals (eg, samarium-153), which may have a role in pain palliation. Historically, neither antiresorptive agents nor radiopharmaceuticals have shown definitive evidence of improved overall survival or other antitumor effects in metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Radiopharmaceuticals are limited by myelosuppresion, thrombocytopenia, and renal excretion. In a recently reported randomized Phase III trial in men with symptomatic bone-metastatic CRPC who had received or were ineligible for docetaxel chemotherapy, 223Ra treatment resulted in improved overall survival and delayed skeletal-related events. Toxicity consisted of minor gastrointestinal side effects and mild neutropenia and thrombocytopenia that were rarely severe. Pending regulatory approval, 223Ra may represent a unique and distinct option for an important subgroup of patients with mCRPC; future trials should address its use in combination or in sequence with existing and novel agents.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/dd/PMC3544343.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3694791", "abstract": "Leaving science to pursue a career in patent law requires a considerable investment of time and energy, and possibly money, with no guarantee of finding a job or of returning to science should the decision prove infelicitous. Yet the large number of former scientists now practicing patent law shows that it can be done. I provide suggestions for investigating the potential opportunities, costs, risks, and rewards of this career path.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e8/aa/2073.PMC3694791.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3473186", "abstract": "Recently, cardiac CTA has been proposed as a promising noninvasive tool for identification of rupture-prone plaques prior to a subsequent coronary event. This task is particularly challenging but the reward is high: identification of high-risk lesions could preclude plaque thrombosis and possibly prevent acute coronary syndromes. We present a case of a borderline mixed plaque with positive remodeling in the proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD). After 6 months and despite aggressive medical therapy, the patient developed acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction caused by a thrombotic lesion in the proximal LAD. We review the literature on CT characteristics of vulnerable plaque and discuss the possible preventive interventions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/15/10554_2011_Article_9875.PMC3473186.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5114143", "abstract": " Background The use of intrathecal antibiotic therapy for the treatment of ventriculitis and/or meningitis has demonstrated efficacy especially when sterilization of the cerebrospinal fluid is not possible with intravenous antibiotics alone.  Case Description We describe the successful treatment of Enterococcus faecalis ventriculitis utilizing intrathecal linezolid in a 32-year-old female patient with severe allergy to vancomycin, prohibitive bacterial susceptibilities, and failure of previous attempts to sterilize the cerebrospinal fluid despite multimodal treatment.  Conclusion Intrathecal linezolid is a useful treatment in the setting of multidrug-resistant bacterial ventriculitis. We present a useful dosing regimen for the administration of intrathecal linezolid.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/43/15/PMC5114143.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2671770", "abstract": "Juvenile Paget's disease (JPD) is a rare skeletal disorder that's characterized by bone demineralization and elevated levels of serum alkaline phosphatase. JPD involves the paranasal sinuses in extremely rare cases. We report here on a 25-month-old Asian male who was diagnosed of JPD associated with aplasia of the paranasal sinuses, but not the ethmoid sinuses. The patient was successfully treated by surgery and we undertook no medical intervention. This appears to be the first reported case of JPD associated with bilateral paranasal sinus aplasia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/51/2d/ceo-1-224.PMC2671770.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2992564", "abstract": "Purpose To report the incidence and new findings of abnormal brain imaging studies associated with patients initially diagnosed with Leber's congenital amaurosis (LCA) without definite systemic abnormalities and to determine the need for brain imaging studies in these patients. Methods A retrospective review of medical records was performed in 83 patients initially diagnosed as LCA and without definite systemic abnormalities before the age of 6 months in 2 tertiary referral centers. Brain magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 31 of 83 patients (37.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/f6/kjo-24-360.PMC2992564.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2809421", "abstract": "This study investigated the relationship of children's autism symptoms with their toxic metal body burden and red blood cell (RBC) glutathione levels. In children ages 3–8 years, the severity of autism was assessed using four tools: ADOS, PDD-BI, ATEC, and SAS. Toxic metal body burden was assessed by measuring urinary excretion of toxic metals, both before and after oral dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA). Multiple positive correlations were found between the severity of autism and the urinary excretion of toxic metals. Variations in the severity of autism measurements could be explained, in part, by regression analyses of urinary excretion of toxic metals before and after DMSA and the level of RBC glutathione (adjusted R 2 of 0.22–0.45, P < .005 in all cases). This study demonstrates a significant positive association between the severity of autism and the relative body burden of toxic metals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/36/ce/PMC2809421.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4056980", "abstract": "Over the past years there has been a significant decrease in mortality and morbidity in patients suffering from severe burns due to improved burn wound management and approaches in critical care. Survival is no longer the exception, but unfortunately death still occurs. One of the key elements concerning state-of-the-art burn care is blood glucose control and insulin therapy; it is well known that burn-induced hyperglycaemia is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. However, controversy for insulin therapy and tight glycaemic control in critically ill and burn patients exists. The increased incidence of hypoglycaemia is the dominant argument against this treatment, because hypoglycaemia is also associated with an increased risk for death in critically ill patients. Taking all current data together, insulin therapy appears both a friend and a foe in the treatment of ICU patients. In order to overcome the limits of tight glycaemic control resulting from hypoglycaemic episodes, current efforts have been directed towards the development of protocols allowing for implementation of clinically feasible and safe guidelines. Among the strategies addressing this problem are closed loop techniques, which are supported by studies demonstrating their capability of exerting tight glycaemic control without the risk of developing hypoglycaemic episodes. Although closed loop techniques have become readily available, we require further evidence to ensure their safety in various ICU environments, notably in ICUs dealing with burn patients. Nonetheless, it is important to emphasise that glycaemic control and adequate insulin therapy are crucial factors for the final outcome (survival) and require our attention.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/76/c3/PMC4056980.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2993123", "abstract": "The histopathology of posterior corneal vesicles (PCV) has not yet been revealed. A 15-year-old girl, who was diagnosed by slit-lamp microscopy as PCV, was examined using specular microscopy, in vivo confocal microscopy, and anterior segment OCT (optical coherence tomography). Anterior segment OCT showed that the thickness of both corneas was within normal limits. At the same time, in vivo confocal microscopy revealed endothelial cells in the rounded dark areas, acellular hyporeflective layers on the Descemet’s membrane, and hyperreflective linear lesions. These findings were not reported previously by slit-lamp and specular microscopy. The abnormal findings only existed at the Descemet’s membrane and corneal endothelial layer. Previous reports dealing with posterior polymorphous dystrophy (PPMD) examined using in vivo confocal microscopy reported almost the same findings, suggesting that PCV and PPMD may be the same at the microstructural level.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b0/e5/PMC2993123.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4593015", "abstract": "Introduction The current role of nurses in the management of critically ill patients needing continuous renal replacement therapies is clearly fundamental. The care of these complex patients is typically shared by critical care and dialysis nurses: their precise duties may vary from country to country. Methods To clarify this issue we conducted a national-level survey at a recent Italian course on nursing practices during continuous renal replacement therapies. Results A total of 119 questionnaires were analysed. The participants, who were equally divided between critical care and dialysis nurses, came from 44 different hospitals and 35 Italian cities. Overall, 23", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/28/e9/hlv-07-224.PMC4593015.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5367260", "abstract": "Arachnoid cysts are defined as an accumulation of fluid within the arachnoid membrane. Feline intracranial arachnoid cysts are seldom reported, with only three cases in the veterinary literature. A 1-year-old male neutered European cat with a 24 h history of seizures was presented to the small animal neurology department at Vetagro Sup, Lyon. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large intracranial arachnoid cyst ventral to the brain in the left temporal area. Cystoperitoneal shunt placement resulted in complete resolution of the cyst without recurrence (follow-up MRIs 3 weeks and 21 months after surgery). Anticonvulsant treatment (phenobarbital 2.5 mg/kg q12h) was initiated at presentation and gradually stopped after 17 months. Seizures recurred 4 months after ending treatment, and seizure therapy was therefore restarted at the initial dose. We report a case of an intracranial arachnoid cyst in an unusual location not previously described. A cystoperitoneal shunt resolved the cyst without complications. Maintenance anticonvulsant treatment was required to control symptomatic epilepsy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/b8/10.1177_2055116915593970.PMC5367260.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3865970", "abstract": "Background The objective of this study was to determine the proportion of women who want to know fetal gender on antenatal ultrasonography and the reasons behind this. Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out between March 10, 2012 and September 10, 2012 at two tertiary care hospitals (Dow University Hospital, Ojha Campus, and Lady Dufferin Hospital) in Karachi. In total, 223 pregnant women who attended the antenatal clinic and gave their consent were included in the study. Information was collected on a predesigned questionnaire. Results Of the 223 pregnant women, 109 (49.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6a/a7/ijwh-5-781.PMC3865970.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3044548", "abstract": "Outbreaks of respiratory infection in institutions in Ontario, Canada were studied from April 20 to June 12, 2009, during the early stages of the emergence of influenza A pandemic (H1N1) 2009. Despite widespread presence of influenza in the general population, only 2 of 83 outbreaks evaluated by molecular methods were associated with pandemic (H1N1) 2009.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/23/PMC3044548.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2699795", "abstract": "We report a case of Loa loa filariasis in an 8-month-old child who presented with a 3-month history of irritated acute red eye and insomnia. Examination revealed a living and active adult Loa loa worm in the anterior chamber of the left eye. The worm was extracted under general anesthetic.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/23/PMC2699795.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4760077", "abstract": "Long-term vertical transmission of intracellular bacteria causes massive genomic erosion and results in extremely small genomes, particularly in ancient symbionts. Genome reduction is typically preceded by the accumulation of pseudogenes and proliferation of mobile genetic elements, which are responsible for chromosome rearrangements during the initial stage of endosymbiosis. We compared the genomes of an endosymbiont of termite gut flagellates, “Candidatus Endomicrobium trichonymphae,” and its free-living relative Endomicrobium proavitum and discovered many remnants of restriction-modification (R-M) systems that are consistently associated with genome rearrangements in the endosymbiont genome. The rearrangements include apparent insertions, transpositions, and the duplication of a genomic region; there was no evidence of transposon structures or other mobile elements. Our study reveals a so far unrecognized mechanism for genome rearrangements in intracellular symbionts and sheds new light on the general role of R-M systems in genome evolution.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f8/39/msv264.PMC4760077.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3690703", "abstract": "Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2) is a genetic disorder associated with schwannomas, meningiomas, and ependymomas. Intracranial calcifications, either tumoral or non-tumoral, are relatively lesser known features of NF2. Here, we present a case of NF2, in which the diagnosis was suspected due to the presence of choroid plexus and subependymal calcifications, although no obvious schwannoma or meningioma was detected initially on standard computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. This case highlights the importance of further evaluation with appropriate imaging techniques.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4a/78/JCIS-3-21.PMC3690703.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3614015", "abstract": "Anisospondyly (irregularly shaped vertebral bodies) and enchondroma-like lesions in the metaphyseal and diaphyseal portions of the long tubular bones are the characteristic features in patients with dysspondyloenchondromatosis (DSC). Thoraco-lumbar scoliosis and windswept deformity of the lower limbs were the major abnormalities encountered in this patient. To the best of our knowledge this is the first case report delineating the spine pathology via reformatted CT scan and the correction of a windswept deformity by means of temporary hemiepiphysiodesis in a patient with (DSC). ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/29/GMS-11-06.PMC3614015.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4272842", "abstract": "Objective: To exam semen parameters in predicting intrauterine insemination (IUI) outcomes in couples with male factor. Study design: This retrospective study was performed at department of infertility and sexual medicine from September 2007 to February 2014. 307 couples with male factor infertility were included and 672 IUI cycles were analyzed. Results: From 672 inseminations performed on 307 couples, there are 27.36", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/e9/MSM-26-321.PMC4272842.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3250669", "abstract": "An 80-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with pneumonia and exacerbation of sinobronchial syndrome (SBS). She presented with yellow discoloration of the nail beds of all fingers and toes, and her nails were recognized as growing slowly. Chest X-ray revealed bronchiectasis in the bilateral lower lobe and bilateral pleural effusion. We diagnosed her as having yellow nail syndrome (YNS), based on the triad of yellow nails, lymphedema, and lung disease. After treatment with antibiotics [ampicillin/sulbactam and clarithromycin (CAM)] for pneumonia and SBS, her general condition improved, and the yellow nails disappeared in some fingers. When she was previously treated with 200 mg CAM for SBS, her yellow nails had not shown improvement. This time, her yellow nails improved after treatment with 400 mg CAM. The literature reports vitamin E, zinc, and topical corticosteroid plus active vitamin D3 to be effective in the treatment of yellow nails. Two studies have reported treatment for YNS using CAM, though they found a lack of efficacy. Thus, the present case is the first to report improved yellow nails using CAM alone. We conclude that not only SBS and lung disease but also YNS were improved by treatment with 400 mg CAM.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/56/cde0003-0251.PMC3250669.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3321281", "abstract": " Objective. The objective of the present study is to investigate the effect of rosiglitazone, metformin, ezetimibe, and valsartan (alone or in combinations) on paraoxonase (PON) activity and PON-mRNA expression in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods. 54 Male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided to 9 groups: chow diet group (15 weeks); methionine-choline-deficient diet (MCDD) group (15 weeks); MCDD-treated groups for the last 6 weeks with either metformin (M), rosiglitazone (R), metformin plus rosiglitazone (M+R), ezetimibe (E), valsartan (V), or a combination of R+M+V or of R+M+V+E for a total period of 15 weeks. Results. PON activities in serum and liver were decreased in MCDD rats. PON activity in serum increased significantly in all treatment groups. PON activity in liver was also increased significantly, except only in groups R, E, V, R+M+V, and R+M+V+E. Liver PON3 mRNA expression increased significantly in groups R+M, E, V, R+M+V, and R+M+V+E whereas liver PON2 mRNA expression increased significantly in MCDD, R+M, E, V, R+M+V, and R+M+V+E. Conclusions. PON activities in serum and liver were decreased in NAFLD. Treatment with insulin sensitizers, ezetimibe, and valsartan increased PON activity and reduced oxidative stress both in serum and liver.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/83/a4/PMC3321281.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2610636", "abstract": "The spleen may be preserved during distal pancreatectomy (DP) for benign disease. The aim of this study was to compare the perioperative and postoperative courses of patients with conventional DP and spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) for benign lesions or tumors with low-grade malignant potential occurred at the body or tail of the pancreas. A retrospective analysis was performed for the hospital records of all the patients undergoing DP and SPDP between January 1995 and April 2006. One-hundred forty-three patients underwent DP and 37 patients underwent SPDP. There were no significant differences in age, sex, indications of operation, estimated blood loss, operative time, and postoperative hospital stay between the two groups. Pancreatic fistula occurred in 21 (13.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c6/fc/jkms-23-1011.PMC2610636.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2924707", "abstract": "Human harvesting of fish results in far greater mortality than natural causes, with enormous potential to affect the phenotypic traits of fish populations, even after exploitation stops. Central to understanding these effects is the untangling of the genetic versus environmental components of phenotypic response. Evolutionary consequences of harvesting must be incorporated into conservation and management strategies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/37/1757-594X-0001-0000000043.PMC2924707.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4027678", "abstract": "Background and Purpose: Multiple system atrophy with predominant cerebellar ataxia is a disabling neurologic disease. However, effective management has not yet been established. We conducted a short-term, open-label preliminary study to assess the benefits of intravenous amantadine treatment in patients with probable multiple system atrophy with predominant cerebellar ataxia. Methods: Twenty patients (10 male, 10 female) with probable multiple system atrophy with predominant cerebellar ataxia received 400 mg of amantadine by intravenous per day for 5 days. Ataxia severity was evaluated by the International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale before and after intravenous amantadine therapy and all subjects reported subjective improvement after intravenous amantadine treatment using a patient global impression scale. We analyzed the total and subscale scores by the ataxia scale and patient global impression scale. Results: The mean age was 57.4 years (range: 47–72) and the mean disease duration was 30.8 months (range: 11–79). The ataxia severity significantly decreased after intravenous amantadine therapy from 42.5 to 37.3 (p < 0.001). The mean patient global impression scale for improvement was 2.9 and there were no side effects of intravenous amantadine treatment observed. When we assessed responders, the duration of intravenous amantadine effect was more than 1 month in 4 subjects of 7 responders. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that intravenous amantadine treatment can be a safe management option in cerebellar ataxia, although the mechanism is unclear. Thus, further double-blind, long-term studies with a larger sample size are needed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/5d/jmd-5-1-1-1.PMC4027678.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3066737", "abstract": "Traumatic injury/hemorrhagic shock (T/HS) elicits an acute inflammatory response that may result in death. Inflammation describes a coordinated series of molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and systemic responses that drive the pathology of various diseases including T/HS and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Inflammation is a finely tuned, dynamic, highly-regulated process that is not inherently detrimental, but rather required for immune surveillance, optimal post-injury tissue repair, and regeneration. The inflammatory response is driven by cytokines and chemokines and is partially propagated by damaged tissue-derived products (Damage-associated Molecular Patterns; DAMP's). DAMPs perpetuate inflammation through the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, but may also inhibit anti-inflammatory cytokines. Various animal models of T/HS in mice, rats, pigs, dogs, and non-human primates have been utilized in an attempt to move from bench to bedside. Novel approaches, including those from the field of systems biology, may yield therapeutic breakthroughs in T/HS and TBI in the near future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/9d/LJM-4-097.PMC3066737.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3170169", "abstract": "The InterPro BioMart provides users with query-optimized access to predictions of family classification, protein domains and functional sites, based on a broad spectrum of integrated computational models (‘signatures’) that are generated by the InterPro member databases: Gene3D, HAMAP, PANTHER, Pfam, PIRSF, PRINTS, ProDom, PROSITE, SMART, SUPERFAMILY and TIGRFAMs. These predictions are provided for all protein sequences from both the UniProt Knowledge Base and the UniParc protein sequence archive. The InterPro BioMart is supplementary to the primary InterPro web interface (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/interpro), providing a web service and the ability to build complex, custom queries that can efficiently return thousands of rows of data in a variety of formats. This article describes the information available from the InterPro BioMart and illustrates its utility with examples of how to build queries that return useful biological information. Database URL: http://www.ebi.ac.uk/interpro/biomart/martview.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/75/bar033.PMC3170169.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4927323", "abstract": "Objective This study aimed to compare the clinical response at 36 months and evaluate the adverse events in a cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab. Methods An observational retrospective cohort study was performed. Patients older than 18 years with active rheumatoid arthritis, for which the physician had initiated a treatment scheme with etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab, were included in the study. The follow-up was conducted through at least trimestral evaluations during the course of 36 months. Outcomes evaluated included Disease Activity Score 28, level of disease activity, Health Assessment Questionnaire, and degree of disability. Results Three hundred seven subjects were included in the cohort (108 adalimumab, 107 infliximab, and 92 etanercept). The median Disease Activity Score 28 at the onset was 4.1 and 2.39 at month 36. There were no differences among the 3 medications (P = 0.51). The remission rate was of 7.4 per 100 people per month (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5d/21/rhu-22-57.PMC4927323.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4327646", "abstract": "Objective: Narrow diameter implants (NDI) (i.e. diameter <3.75 mm) are a potential solution for specific clinical situations, such as reduced interradicular bone, thin alveolar crest and replacement of teeth with small cervical diameter. NDI have been available in clinical practice since the 1990s, but only few studies have analyzed their clinical outcome and no study have investigated NDI inserted in fresh-frozen bone (FFB) grafts. Thus, a retrospective study on a series of NDI placed in homologue FFB was designed to evaluate their clinical outcome. Material and Methods: In the period between December 2003 and December 2006, 36 patients (22 females and 14 males, mean age 53 years) with FFB grafts were selected and 94 different NDI were inserted. The mean follow-up was 25 months. To evaluate the effect of several host-, surgery-, and implant-related factors, marginal bone loss (MBL) was considered an indicator of success rate (SCR). The Kaplan Meier algorithm and Cox regression were used. Results: Only 5 out of 94 implants were lost (i.e. survival rate - SVR 95.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ca/b2/1678-7757-jaos-17-04-0301.PMC4327646.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4196361", "abstract": "Mesenchymal hamartoma is a benign hamartomatous lesion with unknown histogenesis. It generally occurs in pediatric population and has been rarely reported in adults. We report an unusual case of a cystic mesenchymal hamartoma of liver in an 81-year-old elderly male. A provisional diagnosis of liver abscess was made and definitive histopathology confirmed the diagnosis. This case has been reported because of its rarity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1c/65/JLP-6-124.PMC4196361.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3654115", "abstract": "Peripheral arterial disease represents a significant problem, particularly among the elderly population. There has been great progress made in the treatment of peripheral arterial disease in recent years. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) has been employed as a method of treatment for patients with a variety of peripheral arterial disease. We report our experience with PTA of contralateral common iliac and superficial femoral arteries via graft vessel in a patient with femorofemoral bypass due to ipsilateral iliac artery occlusion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/98/kcj-43-265.PMC3654115.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3469095", "abstract": "Polyvinyl alcohol nanofibers incorporating the wide spectrum antibiotic gentamicin were prepared by Nanospider™ needleless technology. A polyvinyl alcohol layer, serving as a drug reservoir, was covered from both sides by polyurethane layers of various thicknesses. The multilayered structure of the nanofibers was observed using scanning electron microscopy, the porosity was characterized by mercury porosimetry, and nitrogen adsorption/desorption measurements were used to determine specific surface areas. The stability of the gentamicin released from the electrospun layers was proved by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and inhibition of bacterial growth. Drug release was investigated using in vitro experiments with HPLC/MS quantification, while the antimicrobial efficacy was evaluated on Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Both experiments proved that the released gentamicin retained its activity and showed that the retention of the drug in the nanofibers was prolonged with the increasing thickness of the covering layers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/e9/PMC3469095.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5118936", "abstract": "Protein thiyl radicals are important intermediates generated in redox processes of thiols and disulfides. Thiyl radicals efficiently react with glutathione and ascorbate, and the common notion is that these reactions serve to eliminate thiyl radicals before they can enter potentially hazardous processes. However, over the past years increasing evidence has been provided for rather efficient intramolecular hydrogen transfer processes of thiyl radicals in proteins and peptides. Based on rate constants published for these processes, we have performed kinetic simulations of protein thiyl radical reactivity. Our simulations suggest that protein thiyl radicals enter intramolecular hydrogen transfer reactions to a significant extent even under physiologic conditions, i.e. in the presence of 30 μM oxygen, 1 mM ascorbate and 10 mM glutathione. At lower concentrations of ascorbate and glutathione, frequently observed when tissue is exposed to oxidative stress, the extent of irreversible protein thiyl radical-dependent protein modification increases. Graphical abstract", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dc/3d/nihms662058.PMC5118936.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3771454", "abstract": " Background. Although access to HAART has prolonged survival and improved quality of life, HIV-infected patients with severe immunosuppression or comorbidities may develop complications that require critical care support. Our objective is to evaluate the etiology of respiratory failure in patients with HIV infection admitted to the ICU, its relationship with the T-lymphocytes cell count as well as the use of HAART, and its impact on outcome. Methods. A single-center, prospective, and observational study among all patients with HIV-infection and respiratory failure admitted to the ICU from December 1, 2011, to February 28, 2013, was conducted. Results. A total of 42 patients were admitted during the study period. Their median CD4 cell count was 123 cells/μL (mean 205.7, range 2.0–694.0), with a median HIV viral load of 203.5 copies/mL (mean 58,676, range <20–367,649). At the time of admission, 23 patients (54.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1d/9d/PMC3771454.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3479993", "abstract": " Objective. The goal of the study was to analyse the results of 85 cases of second-look laparotomy (SLL) and explore the influence of this procedure on survival.  Patients and Methods. We reviewed retrospectively 85 cases of SLL collected and treated in our institute between 1994 and 2003. Results. Complete pathologic response (CPR) was 25.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/56/PMC3479993.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3912627", "abstract": "Context A detailed evaluation of the correlation and linearity of industrial hygiene retrospective exposure assessment (REA) for cumulative asbestos exposure with asbestos lung burden analysis (LBA) has not been previously performed, but both methods are utilized for case-control and cohort studies and other applications such as setting occupational exposure limits. Objective (a) To correlate REA with asbestos LBA for a large number of cases from varied industries and exposure scenarios; (b) to evaluate the linearity, precision, and applicability of both industrial hygiene exposure reconstruction and LBA; and (c) to demonstrate validation methods for REA. Methods A panel of four experienced industrial hygiene raters independently estimated the cumulative asbestos exposure for 363 cases with limited exposure details in which asbestos LBA had been independently determined. LBA for asbestos bodies was performed by a pathologist by both light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and free asbestos fibers by SEM. Precision, reliability, correlation and linearity were evaluated via intraclass correlation, regression analysis and analysis of covariance. Plaintiff’s answers to interrogatories, work history sheets, work summaries or plaintiff’s discovery depositions that were obtained in court cases involving asbestos were utilized by the pathologist to provide a summarized brief asbestos exposure and work history for each of the 363 cases. Results Linear relationships between REA and LBA were found when adjustment was made for asbestos fiber-type exposure differences. Significant correlation between REA and LBA was found with amphibole asbestos lung burden and mixed fiber-types, but not with chrysotile. The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for the precision of the industrial hygiene rater cumulative asbestos exposure estimates and the precision of repeated laboratory analysis were found to be in the excellent range. The ICC estimates were performed independent of specific asbestos fiber-type. Conclusions Both REA and pathology assessment are reliable and complementary predictive methods to characterize asbestos exposures. Correlation analysis between the two methods effectively validates both REA methodology and LBA procedures within the determined precision, particularly for cumulative amphibole asbestos exposures since chrysotile fibers, for the most part, are not retained in the lung for an extended period of time.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/50/IHT-26-1.PMC3912627.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4223781", "abstract": "Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the capacity of potassium oxalate, fluoride gel and two kinds of propolis gel to reduce the hydraulic conductance of dentin, in vitro.  Material and Methods The methodology used for the measurement of hydraulic conductance of dentin in the present study was based on a model proposed in literature. Thirty-six 1-mm-thick dentin discs, obtained from extracted human third molars were divided into 4 groups (n=9). The groups corresponded to the following experimental materials: GI-10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f7/ab/jaos-19-04-0318.PMC4223781.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5373676", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are globular, membrane bound nanovesicles (30–100 nm range) that are shed both during normal cellular functioning and under pathological conditions by most cell types. In recent years, there has been significant interest in the study of these vesicles as conduits for the delivery of information between cells from both analogous and disparate tissues. Their ability to carry specialised cargo including signalling mediators, proteins, messenger RNA and miRNAs characterises these vesicles as primary facilitators of cell-to-cell communication and regulation. EVs have also been demonstrated to play important roles in the field of cancer biology and metastasis. However, significant knowledge gaps exist in the role these vesicles play in the context of HIV infection and drug abuse. To foster discussion in this area a satellite symposium on “HIV, NeuroAIDS, Drug Abuse     EVs”, was held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV) in Bethesda, in April 2015. Experts in HIV and drug abuse fields were invited to share their findings on the role of EVs in HIV-1 infection and drug addiction. Additional discussion included current areas of research in EV biology in HIV infection and drug abuse.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2d/9b/zjev-6-1294360.PMC5373676.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4037986", "abstract": "Spontaneous remission (SR) of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in adults is observed very rarely. To date, about 100 cases have been presented in the literature. To our best knowledge, we describe the first adult Polish patient suffering from acute myelomonocytic leukemia (48, XY, +13, +21/46, XY), in whom after supportive therapy, including non-irradiated, non-leukocyte depleted red cell transfusions and low-dose corticosteroid, we observed resolution of the disease without cytogenetic remission. We suggest a potential transfusion-associated graft versus-host-diseases (TA-GVHD) and graft-versus leukemia (GVL) reaction which might lead to spontaneous hematological remission. However, we did not observe clinical symptoms of such reactions apart from a short episode of non-infectious diarrhea. Additionally, steroids were administered but their role in inducing SR, in our opinion, seems less probable. This 77-year-old man remained in SR for 7 months, when repeated analysis showed AML recurrence. He died due to septic shock 2.5 months later. Additionally, we present a review of the literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/93/WO-18-21750.PMC4037986.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4240326", "abstract": "Introduction: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible serious vision damage in persons over 50 years of age. In treating AMD many medicaments are applied such as inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), have been very carefully included over the last few years after a series of study research. Aims: To analyze the past methods of treatment, discuss emerging therapies which could advance the treatment of exudative AMD. The past anti-VEGF therapies require frequent repetitions of administration, with uncertain visual acuity recovery, as not all patients react to anti-VEGF therapy. Consequently, there is a need to find out additional therapies which could improve the treatment of exudative AMD. The real aim in the treating of AMD is to prevent CNV development. Methods: A survey of the current clinical research and results in the field of the present and future treatments of exudative AMD. Results: There are many areas of research into new methods of the exudative AMD treatment. Conclusion: The future therapies for exudative AMD treatment have a potential not only to reduce the frequency of administration and follow-up visits, but also to improve effects of treatment by targeting additional ways of CNV development, increasing the aptitude of target binding and extending durability of treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/77/MA-68-204.PMC4240326.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5238491", "abstract": "Introduction: Over the past few decades, two revolutionary approaches have emerged as a new form of medical education: Electronic Medical Education and Web-based Medical Education. A number of well-known medical institutions, such as Harvard and Johns Hopkins used a wide range of cyberspace capabilities to increase their competitiveness. Researchers have expressed that cyberspace will change health system’s main objective of training physicians and medical education. We conducted this study to identify the health system critical considerations on core issues, involving the development of medical education on cyberspace.  Methods: In order to conduct this study, we observed the steps of a critical literature review, combined with the ‘Four-phase method’ adopted by Carnwell and Daly. We focused on particular literature on health and cyber system functions; it was associated with systemic approach.  Results: We developed a six-level taxonomy, Cyber level, Governance level, Ministerial level, Organizational level, Program level and Performance level, as a key solution that can be applied for the success of medical education on cyberspace. The results were summarized and appraised in more details.  Conclusion: Medical education on cyberspace is a complex interdisciplinary system. It is important that all aspects of the health systems be involved as integral to the development of cyber based medical education; without this convergence, we will be confused by the decisions made by others within the system. Health system should also communicate with those external sectors that are critical to achieving better learning on cyberspace. Integrated planning, governance and management of medical education in cyberspace are pivotal elements for the promotion. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/75/2d/JAMP-5-11.PMC5238491.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4553295", "abstract": "Synovial chondromatosis is a rare lesion in the wrist, but some cases in the distal radioulnar joint have been reported and previous case reports emphasize joint calcifications, shown on preoperative plain radiographs. We report an extremely uncommon case of synovial chondromatosis in the pisotriquetral joint, in which radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging did not demonstrate apparent calcified bodies. In our case, for the accurate diagnosis and treatment, surgical exploration of the joint and synovectomy with removal of loose bodies was performed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/ba/cios-7-414.PMC4553295.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4966692", "abstract": "Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are severe psychiatric disorders that are frequently associated with persistent symptoms and significant dysfunction. While there are a multitude of psychopharmacologic agents are available for treatment of these illnesses, suboptimal response and significant adverse consequences limit their utility. Cariprazine is a new, novel antipsychotic medication with dopamine D2 and D3 partial agonist effects. Its safety and efficacy have been investigated in acute psychosis of schizophrenia, bipolar mania, bipolar depression, and unipolar depression. Efficacy has been demonstrated in schizophrenia and mania. It is unclear if cariprazine is effective in depression associated with unipolar or bipolar illness. Adverse consequences include extrapyramidal symptoms including akathisia, and various gastrointestinal symptoms. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved cariprazine. This review will provide clinicians with basic information regarding the research program of cariprazine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/b9/ndt-12-1837.PMC4966692.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4128941", "abstract": "Objective The variation in the anatomy of the iliopsoas tendon is important information for orthopaedic surgeons operating around the hip. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of bifid iliopsoas tendons in children on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods MRI hip and pelvis images of 50 sequential children aged 7–15 years were retrieved from our radiology database at the Evelina London Children’s Hospital from 2007 to 2013. Included were 37 children with imaging of both hips and 13 children with imaging of one hip only. Therefore, our study was based on a total of 87 hips. Results At least 1 bifid tendon was noted in 13 children (26 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9d/fc/PMC4128941.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3995733", "abstract": "PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog on chromosome ten) is a dual protein/lipid phosphatase that dephosphorylates PIP3, thereby inhibiting the AKT/mTOR pathway. This inhibition ultimately decreases protein translation, cell proliferation and cell growth. In the central nervous system, inhibition of PTEN leads to increased stem cell proliferation, somatic, dendritic and axonal growth, accelerated spine maturation, diminished synaptic plasticity, and altered intrinsic excitability. In agreement with these findings, patients carrying single-copy inactivating mutations of PTEN suffer from autism, macrocephaly, mental retardation, and epilepsy. Understanding the mechanisms through which PTEN modulates the structure, function, and plasticity of cortical networks is a major focus of study. Preventing and reversing the changes induced by loss of Pten in model animals will pave the way for treatments in humans.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1f/7f/cib-7-e28358.PMC3995733.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4165676", "abstract": "Introduction Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a condition of social dimension which generally pertains to women of various age. The only effective treatments of SUI are surgical procedures. The use of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) ensures low invasiveness but also carries the risk of complications. One of the complications may be migration of the tape into the urinary bladder creating conditions for urinary stones. There is a number of treatment methods for cystolithiasis, among them the optical lithotripter, ultrasound and pneumatic probes, and recently, the holmium laser. Material and methods From January 2009 to February 2010, six women suffering from bladder stones were treated at our department. All patients had previously undergone SUI procedures and over time, thread or tape had penetrated into the urinary bladder. The stone diameters were in the range of 1.6 cm–3.5 cm. Lithotripsy was performed with the use of an 80 W holmium YAG laser as an endoscopic procedure: beam frequency length of 2100 nm and applied energy was in the range of 0.2–3.5 J. Results The urinary bladder stones were disintegrated and suctioned out. During the same procedure, the threads or tape from the SUI procedure were excised from the bladder. All patients were discharged from the hospital in good general condition after two days. Conclusions The holmium laser is an effective treatment for patients with bladder stone complications after SUI procedures when threads or tape have migrated and penetrated the bladder wall. The procedure is straightforward and safe for patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/01/CEJU-67-00372.PMC4165676.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4502246", "abstract": "Hemangioblastomas in the pituitary stalk are especially rare. Most pituitary stalk hemangioblastomas reported in the literature were associated with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. Here, we report only the 3rd case of sporadic pituitary stalk hemangioblastoma diagnosed in a 60-year-old woman. Despite the danger of potential complications due to excessive vascularity or proximity to important neural structures, the tumor in our case was successfully removed while preserving pituitary function. In this case, complete surgical excision was shown to be an effective treatment option for symptomatic pituitary stalk hemangioblastoma, and we suggest careful evaluation of any highly enhancing mass with a signal void in the pituitary stalk preoperatively, even if no VHL disease is evident.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/33/a4/jkns-57-465.PMC4502246.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5067313", "abstract": "FAAS was used for the analysis of trace metals in fresh and dry plant parts of Cymbopogon validus and Hyparrhenia hirta species with the aim of determining the trace metals concentrations in selected traditional plants consumed in Eastern Cape, South Africa. The trace metal concentration (mg/kg) in the samples of dry Cymbopogon validus leaves (DCVL) showed Cu of 12.40 ± 1.000; Zn of 2.42 ± 0.401; Fe of 2.50 ± 0.410; Mn of 1.31 ± 0.210; Pb of 3.36 ± 0.401 mg/kg, while the samples of fresh Hyparrhenia hirta flowers (FHHF) gave Cu of 9.77 ± 0.610; Zn of 0.70 ± 0.200; Fe of 2.11 ± 0.200; Mn of 1.15 ± 0.080; Pb of 3.15 ± 0.100 mg/kg. Abundance of metal concentrations follows the order: Cu > Fe > Pb > Mn > Zn in the flower samples of Cymbopogon validus and Hyparrhenia hirta species. The concentrations of trace metals in both plant parts were below the permissible limits (PL) set by WHO. It is suggested that pharmacovigilance be carried out periodically to improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of various herbal products.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/9d/PMC5067313.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3388521", "abstract": "To evaluate the feasibility and advantages of constructing a novel tissue engineering bone, using β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and rat adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), modified with BMP2 and BMP7 by lentivirus. In the present study, ADSCs transfected with Lv-BMP2 and Lv-BMP7, alone or together, were seeded on β-TCP scaffold and cultured in vitro. Based on the results of DNA assay, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, alizarin red staining and osteogenic marker genes expression analysis, the BMP2 and BMP7 genes cotransfection group exhibited a higher degree of osteogenic differentiation in vitro. To investigate the in vivo osteogenesis of the tissue engineering bone, the ADSCs/β-TCP constructs were implanted in rat femurs defects for 6 weeks and studied histomorphology and radiography. The results showed that BMP2 and BMP7 genes cotransfection group dramatically enhanced the efficiency of new bone formation than BMP2 group and BMP7 group in vivo. These results demonstrated that it was advantageous to construct tissue engineering bone using ADSCs cotransfected with BMP2 and BMP7 on β-TCP, providing a potential way for treating bone defects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/30/2e/PMC3388521.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4897117", "abstract": " Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties and bioactivity of two formulations of calcium silicate-based cements containing additives (CSCM) or resin (CSCR), associated with radiopacifying agents zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and niobium oxide (Nb2O5) as micro- and nanoparticles; calcium tungstate (CaWO4); and bismuth oxide (Bi2O3). MTA Angelus was used as control. Methods. Surface features and bioactivity were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and the chemical composition by energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS-X). Results. CSCM and CSCR presented larger particle sizes than MTA. Hydroxyapatite deposits were found on the surface of some materials, especially when associated with the radiopacifier with ZrO2 nanoparticles. All the cements presented calcium, silicon, and aluminum in their composition. Conclusion. Both calcium silicate-based cements presented composition and bioactivity similar to MTA when associated with the radiopacifiers evaluated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/25/25/PMC4897117.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3514824", "abstract": " Background. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is the most common cause of lower urinary tract obstruction in the elderly male.  Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and outcome of open prostatectomy in a Nigerian teaching hospital. Material and Methods. Two hundred and fifty-three men with lower urinary tract obstruction clinically due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) underwent open prostatectomy over a ten-year period (January 2001–December 2010). Data on patients including age, clinical, laboratory, and histology were reviewed and analyzed to determine treatment outcome. Results. A total of 253 patients were studied. Their mean age was 69.11 ± 10.9 years (range 50–98). The most common symptoms at presentation included frequency 229 (90.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/4d/PMC3514824.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4997053", "abstract": "Phytochemicals and micronutrients represent a growing theme in antimicrobial defense; however, little is known about their anti-borreliae effects of reciprocal cooperation with antibiotics. A better understanding of this aspect could advance our knowledge and help improve the efficacy of current approaches towards Borrelia sp. In this study, phytochemicals and micronutrients such as baicalein, luteolin, 10-HAD, iodine, rosmarinic acid, and monolaurin, as well as, vitamins D3 and C were tested in a combinations with doxycycline for their in vitro effectiveness against vegetative (spirochetes) and latent (rounded bodies, biofilm) forms of Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia garinii. Anti-borreliae effects were evaluated according to checkerboard assays and supported by statistical analysis. The results showed that combination of doxycycline with flavones such as baicalein and luteolin exhibited additive effects against all morphological forms of studied Borrelia sp. Doxycycline combined with iodine demonstrated additive effects against spirochetes and biofilm, whereas with fatty acids such as monolaurin and 10-HAD it produced FICIs of indifference. Additive anti-spirochetal effects were also observed when doxycycline was used with rosmarinic acid and both vitamins D3 and C. Antagonism was not observed in any of the cases. This data revealed the intrinsic anti-borreliae activity of doxycycline with tested phytochemicals and micronutrients indicating that their addition may enhance efficacy of this antibiotic in combating Borrelia sp. Especially the addition of flavones balcalein and luteolin to a doxycycline regimen could be explored further in defining more effective treatments against these bacteria.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2d/c4/PMC4997053.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5011222", "abstract": " Background. Septic arthritis of the glenohumeral joint in the pediatric population (<18 yo) is not commonly described in the literature. There is a corresponding paucity of information regarding its presentation and treatment. Methods. An IRB approved review of patients treated with irrigation and debridement by the Orthopaedic Department was completed. This retrospective study includes four patients, presenting from 2005 to 2015, with septic arthritis of the shoulder. Results. The mean age (M age) at presentation was 5 years, with a range of 1 month to 15 years. Patients presented on average after 7 days with pain and a mean temperature of 39°C, erythrocyte sedimentation rate of 66 mm/hr, a C-reactive protein level of 11.17 g/dL, and a white blood cell count of 20.2 × 103/mcL. Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were cultured from the wounds. All cases were treated operatively with irrigation and debridement and with antimicrobial therapy. Patients received antibiotics for an average of 6 weeks. Conclusion. Septic arthritis of the shoulder occurs in all pediatric ages. Successful treatment of septic arthritis of the shoulder was accomplished in four cases without division of the biceps sheath, with an average follow-up of 8 months.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/42/94/PMC5011222.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3820381", "abstract": " [Purpose] Balance is generally defined as the ability to maintain the body's center of gravity within its base of support and may be categorized by either static or dynamic balance. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of 8 weeks of balance training on strength, and the functional balance ability of elite weightlifters. [Subjects] Thirty-two elite weightlifters were recruited for the present study. They were divided into exercise groups (8 high school students, 8 middle school students) and control groups (8 high school students, 8 middle school students). [Methods] Body compositions were measured by the electrical impedance method, and a Helmas system was used to measure basic physical capacities. The muscular function test was conducted using a Cybex 770. [Results] There were no significant changes in body composition after the training. In contrast, significant changes were found in the number of push-ups, one-leg standing time with eyes closed, and upper body back extension. Interestingly, only the left arm external rotation value after the exercise training program showed a statistically significant difference from the baseline value. [Conclusion] The peak torque values of shoulder internal rotation and knee extension were significantly changed compared to the baseline values, which mean subjects showed balance of their muscular power. Therefore, the results of the present study suggest that an 8-week balance-training program would positively affect elite weightlifters' balance ability and flexibility. We think that well-balanced muscular functionality may enhance athletes' sport performance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/dd/jpts-25-895.PMC3820381.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4905886", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of the present study was to construct an integrated rehabilitation exercise program to prevent chronic pain and improve motor ability in cases of ankle injury and re-injury. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-six male soccer players who required functional strength exercises due to repeated ankle injury were the subjects. A 12-week rehabilitation exercise program was constructed with the aim of improving muscle strength in the ankle and dynamic coordination of the lower limb. Muscle strength and dynamic coordination were evaluated using the Y Balance Test, and isokinetic muscle strength of ankle dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, and eversion were measured before and after the 12-week program. [Results] Following 12 weeks of rehabilitation exercise, there were statistically significant improvements in the ratios of dorsiflexor strength to plantarflexor strength, eversion strength, and inversion strength on the left side. The other variables showed no significant changes. [Conclusion] The rehabilitation exercise program for chronic ankle instability helped to reduce pain, and to restore normal joint range of motion, muscle strength and endurance, and functional ability. Active protocols to improve complex functions need to be developed to complement these results.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/88/jpts-28-1443.PMC4905886.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4310978", "abstract": "Background and Objectives Apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (AHCM) is an uncommon variant of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with a relatively benign course. However, the prognostic factors of AHCM-particularly those associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) and its anatomical subtypes-are not well known. Subjects and Methods We enrolled 98 consecutive patients with AHCM who underwent coronary angiography or coronary computed tomography scanning at two general hospitals in Korea from January 2002 to March 2012. Patient charts were reviewed for information regarding cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, symptoms, and occurrence of CV events and/or mortality. We also reviewed echocardiographic data and angiography records. Results The mean age at the time of enrollment was 61.45±9.78 years, with female patients comprising 38.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/c5/kcj-45-38.PMC4310978.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC540084", "abstract": "Ciliated protozoa have two kinds of nuclei: Macronuclei (MAC) and Micronuclei (MIC). In some ciliate classes, such as spirotrichs, most genes undergo several layers of DNA rearrangement during macronuclear development. Because of such processes, these organisms provide ideal systems for studying mechanisms of recombination and gene rearrangement. Here, we describe a database that contains all spirotrich genes for which both MAC and MIC versions are sequenced, with consistent annotation and easy access to all the features. An interface to query the database is available at http://oxytricha.princeton.edu/dimorphism/database.htm.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/44/4c/PMC540084.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4719368", "abstract": "Introduction: Melorheostosis(synonyms: candle bone disease, melting wax syndrome, Leri disease) is a rare chronic bone disorder, first described in 1922 by Leri and Joanny. Men and women are equally affected, and no hereditary features have been discovered. Onset is insidious, and most common symptom is pain. Most common part of bone is diaphysis of the long bone of lower limb rarely the axial skeleton. Classical radiological appearance of ’flowing hyperosteosis’ resembling hardened wax that has dripped down the side of a candle. Case Report: A 35 years old woman presented with left leg pain with mild swelling and limitation of knee movement. On examination non tender bony heard swelling, hyperpigmented and restriction of knee movement present. Plain radiographs showed extensive, dense, undulating or irregular cortical hyperostosis, resembling candle wax, extending along the length of bone. Pamidronate as well asanalgesic were given to the patient. Physiotherepy started for the deformity. Conclusion: Routine laboratory findings usually are normal. The exact cause remain unclear. There is no definite treatment available for this disease. Only symptomatic treatment improve the condition of the patients, more fruitful result obtain with pamidronate and physiotherapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/0a/JOCR-4-25.PMC4719368.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4884062", "abstract": "An equity research analyst’s job is to determine whether the price of a stock is likely to go up or down. For science-based businesses, particularly biotechnology companies, a PhD in the life sciences can be very helpful in making this determination. I transitioned from a postdoc position to working in equity research. Here I present information on how I made the transition, an overview of the day-to-day activities of an analyst, and thoughts on how to prepare to look for a job in finance. There are significant positives to working on Wall Street, including exposure to cutting-edge clinical/translational research, access to some of the best scientists in the world, a dynamic work environment, and compensation that generally exceeds academic salaries. This comes at the cost of some independence and the satisfaction of being able to call oneself a scientist.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/d1/1709.PMC4884062.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3945172", "abstract": "Living with obesity is an experience that may affect multiple aspects of an individual's life. Obesity is considered a relevant public health problem in modern societies. To determine the comparative efficacy of different treatments and to assess their impact on patients' everyday life, it is important to identify factors that are relevant to the quality of life of obese patients. The present study aims to evaluate, in Portuguese obese patients, the simultaneous impact of several psychosocial factors on quality of life. This study also explores the mediating role of stigma in the relationship between positive/negative affect and quality of life. A sample of 215 obese patients selected from the main hospitals in Portugal completed self-report questionnaires to assess sociodemographic, clinical, psychosocial, and quality of life variables. Data were analysed using structural equation modeling. The model fitted the data reasonably well, CFI = 0.9, RMSEA = 0.06. More enthusiastic and more active patients had a better quality of life. Those who reflect lower perception of stigma had a better physical and mental health. Partial mediation effects of stigma between positive affect and mental health and between negative affect and physical health were found. The stigma is pervasive and causes consequences for psychological and physical health.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a1/0f/PMC3945172.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4800842", "abstract": "Background: Both procalcitonin (PCT) and plasma endotoxin levels cannot be solely used for a definite diagnosis of bacteremia or sepsis, and there has been few study comparing the values of the two biomarkers for the diagnosis of bacteremia. The aim of this study was to identify bacteria causing bacteremia and evaluate the role of the two biomarkers in the diagnosis of bacteremia in Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Methods: The medical records of 420 patients in ICU were retrospectively reviewed. Patients (n = 241) who met the inclusion criteria were subjected to blood culture (BC) for the analysis of the endotoxin or PCT levels. The exclusion criteria included the presence of infection with human immunodeficiency virus and/or AIDS, neutropenia without sepsis, pregnancy, treatment with immunosuppressive therapies, or blood diseases such as hematological tumors. Patients’ BC episodes were divided into BC negative, Gram-negative (GN) bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria, and fungi groups. The PCT and plasma endotoxin levels were compared in the different groups. Results: A total of 241 patients with 505 episodes of BC were analyzed. The GN bacteria group showed higher levels of PCT and endotoxin than the BC negative, Gram-positive bacteria, and fungi groups. GN bacteremia was more prevalent than Gram-positive bacteremia. The GN bacteremia caused by non-Enterobacteriaceae infection presented higher endotoxin level than that by Enterobacteriaceae, but no significant difference in PCT levels was observed between the two groups. The plasma endotoxin significantly differed among different groups and was bacterial species dependent. Conclusions: Plasma endotoxin was more related to GN than to Gram-positive bacteremia, and that endotoxin level was species dependent, but PCT level remained relatively more stable within the GN bacteria caused bacteremia. Both GN and positive bacteria caused bacteremia in the ICU patients in different regions of China. And PCT is a more valuable biomarker than endotoxin in the diagnosis of bacteremia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/13/CMJ-129-417.PMC4800842.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3073798", "abstract": "Colocutaneous fistula caused by diverticulitis is relatively rare, and a delayed recrudescent case of colocutaneous fistula is very uncommon. We herein report a rare case of a Japanese 56-year-old male with delayed recrudescent sigmoidocutaneous fistula due to diverticulitis. A colocutaneous fistula was formed after a drainage operation against a perforation of the sigmoid colon diverticulum. After 5 years from treatment, he was admitted to our hospital because of lower abdominal pain. We diagnosed the recrudescent sigmoidocutaneous fistula by abdominal computed tomography and gastrografin enema, and managed the patient with total parenteral nutrition and antibiotics. As the fistula formation did not improve, a low anterior resection with fistulectomy was performed. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged. It has been reported that, in fistulas of the skin caused by diverticular disease, complete closure of the fistula by conservative therapy may not be possible. This case also implies the possibility of a recurrence of the fistula even if the conservative treatment was effective. In cases of colocutaneous fistulas due to diverticulitis, radical surgery is considered necessary because of possibility of recurrence of the fistula.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/60/crg0001-0116.PMC3073798.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5363417", "abstract": "Aptamer-drug conjugates (ApDCs) have the potential to improve the therapeutic index of traditional chemotherapeutic agents due to their ability to deliver cytotoxic drugs specifically to cancer cells while sparing normal cells. This study reports on the conjugation of cytotoxic drugs to an aptamer previously described by our group, the pancreatic cancer RNA aptamer P19. To this end, P19 was incorporated with gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), or conjugated to monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) and derivative of maytansine 1 (DM1). The ApDCs P19-dFdCMP and P19-5FdUMP were shown to induce the phosphorylation of histone H2AX on Ser139 (γ-H2AX) and significantly inhibited cell proliferation by 51", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ad/9b/main.PMC5363417.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4581369", "abstract": "Introduction: Pulmonary fibrosarcoma has been an extremely rare tumor in children. Wide surgical resection of infantile fibrosarcoma would be the treatment of choice. Case Presentation: Post-operative chemotherapy has shown the benefit in the cases of residual disease after initial surgery and metastatic disease in the literature. We have presented the case of a 70-days old male child with primary infantile fibrosarcoma of the left lung and distant metastasis of skull. Conclusions: The aim of this publication was to highlight the role of adjuvant chemotherapy to improve outcome of infantile fibrosarcoma with residual tumor and / or metastatic disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9a/d7/ijcp-08-2328.PMC4581369.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3155142", "abstract": "The thoracic splanchnic nerve block has been used in managing abdominal pain, especially for pains arising from abdominal cancers. A 27-year-old male patient who had a constant abdominal pain was referred to our clinic for pain management but had no organic disease. The numeric rating scale (NRS) for pain scored 7/10. We applied a diagnostic thoracic splanchnic nerve block under the diagnosis of functional abdominal pain syndrome. Since the block reduced the pain, we applied a radiofrequency thermocoagulation at the T11 and T12 vertebral level. Thereafter, his symptoms improved markedly with pain decreasing to an NRS score of 2-3/10. Hereby, we report a successful management of functional abdominal pain via radiofrequency thermocoagulation of the thoracic splanchnic nerves.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f2/f0/kjae-61-79.PMC3155142.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2992193", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE Although management of type 1 diabetes improved dramatically in the 1980s, the effect on mortality is not clear. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We report trends in 30-year mortality using the Allegheny County (Pennsylvania) childhood-onset (age <18 years) type 1 diabetes registry (n = 1,075) with diagnosis from 1965–1979, by dividing the cohort into three diagnosis year cohorts (1965–1969, 1970–1974, and 1975–1979). Local (Allegheny County) mortality data were used to calculate standardized mortality ratios (SMRs). RESULTS As of 1 January 2008, vital status was ascertained for 97.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ae/ba/zdc2573.PMC2992193.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2635601", "abstract": "TRAIL is a promising candidate for cancer therapeutics that preferentially induces apoptosis in cancer cells. The combined treatment flavonoids with TRAIL might be promising as a chemoprevention and/or new therapy against malignant tumors. We examined the cytotoxic effect of dietary flavonoids in combination with TRAIL on HeLa cells. It was found that treatment with noncytotoxic concentration of some flavonoids significantly sensititizes to TRAIL induced death in HeLa cells. Our study demonstrated that flavone, apigenin and genistein markedly augmented TRAIL mediated cytotoxicity against HeLa, whereas kaempferol and quercetin produced no effect.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5c/84/PMC2635601.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3684115", "abstract": " Objective. Although angiotensin II-mediated inflammation and extracellular matrix accumulation are considered to be associated with the progression of diabetic nephropathy, these processes have not yet been sufficiently clarified. The objective of this study was to determine whether the correction of the abnormal renal expression of MMPs and its inhibitors (MMPs/TIMPs) and cytokines following the administration of aliskiren to KK-A y mice results in a renoprotective effect. Methods. KK-A y mice were divided into two groups, that is, untreated (saline) and treated (aliskiren) groups. Systolic BP, HbA1c levels, and the albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR) were measured. The renal expression of MMPs/TIMPs, fibronectin, type IV collagen, MCP-1, and (pro)renin receptor ((P)RR) was examined using real-time PCR and/or immunohistochemical staining. Renal MAPK and NF-κB activity were also examined by Western blot analyses and ELISA, respectively. Results. Significant decreases in systolic BP and ACR levels were observed in treated KK-A y mice compared with the findings in untreated KK-A y mice. Furthermore, increases in MMPs/TIMPs, fibronectin, type IV collagen, MCP-1, and (P)RR expression, in addition to MAPK and NF-κB activity, were significantly attenuated by aliskiren administration. Conclusions. It appears that aliskiren improves albuminuria and renal fibrosis by regulating inflammation and the alteration of collagen synthesis and degradation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/de/95/PMC3684115.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4234344", "abstract": "Objective Applications of resin luting agents and high-power light-emitting diodes (LED) light-curing units (LCUs) have increased considerably over the last few years. However, it is not clear whether the effect of reduced exposure time on cytotoxicity of such products have adequate biocompatibility to meet clinical success. This study aimed at assessing the effect of reduced curing time of five resin luting cements (RLCs) polymerized by high-power LED curing unit on the viability of a cell of L-929 fibroblast cells. Material and Methods Disc-shaped samples were prepared in polytetrafluoroethylene moulds with cylindrical cavities. The samples were irradiated from the top through the ceramic discs and acetate strips using LED LCU for 20 s (50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ee/d0/jaos-19-03-0286.PMC4234344.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3151381", "abstract": "Evaluation of herbs for antifertility effects has been in progress worldwide for several decades to identify effective and safe substances for control of population explosion. Inspite of availability of internationally accepted guidelines for the assessment of reproductive toxicity/antifertility potential of test substances, many published articles, on critical review, seem to lack reproducibility and are thus likely to mislead both the scientific community and the general public. This paper, while emphasizing the importance of generating authentic toxicity/safety information on acclaimed medicinal herbs, spells out existing pitfalls in such studies, and explores some control measures worth considering in times to come.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/09/7b/JAIM-1-129.PMC3151381.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4226908", "abstract": "An 18-year-old, previously healthy man admitted with abdominal pain, high-grade fevers, nausea and emesis was found to have multiple hepatic abscesses. Aspiration cultures grew Fusobacterium necrophorum, a rare bacterium causing potentially fatal liver abscesses in humans. Following sequential percutaneous drainages and narrowing of antibiotics, the patient was discharged on a 6-week antibiotic course and showed no signs of infection. A week after presentation it was discovered that he had experienced upper respiratory symptoms and sore throat prior to presentation. Because oropharyngeal infections are a potential source of bacteremia, they must be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with hepatic abscesses and no evidence of immunocompromise.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/61/rju118.PMC4226908.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2580020", "abstract": "The superficial brachial artery (SBA), a branch of the axillary artery, is one of the most common arterial variations in this area. While it is more vulnerable to accidental arterial injection or injury, it could be useful for the nourishment of a medial arm skin free flap. To analyze the relationship between the SBA of axillary origin and segmental variation of the axillary artery, we dissected 304 arms of Korean cadavers. We found an SBA of axillary origin in 12.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/db/b4/jkms-23-884.PMC2580020.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3324118", "abstract": "Experience shapes and molds the brain throughout life.These changes in neuronal circuits are produced by a myriad of molecular and cellular processes. Simplistically, circuits are modified through changes in neurotransmitter release or through neurotransmitter detection at synapses. The predominant neurotransmitter receptor in excitatory transmission, the AMPA-type glutamate receptor (AMPAR), is exquisitely sensitive to changes in experience and synaptic activity. These ion channels are usually impermeable to calcium, a property conferred by the GluA2 subunit. However, GluA2-lacking AMPARs are permeable to calcium and have recently been shown to play a unique role in synaptic function. In this review, I will describe new findings on the role of calcium permeable AMPARs (CP-AMPARs) in experience-dependent and synaptic plasticity.These studies suggest that CP-AMPARs play a prominent role in maintaining circuits in a labile state where further plasticity can occur, thus promoting metaplasticity. Moreover, the abnormal expression of CP-AMPARs has been implicated in drug addiction and memory disorders and thus may be a novel therapeutic target.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/28/e0/fnmol-05-00049.PMC3324118.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4746376", "abstract": "Microcystins are toxic molecules produced by cyanobacterial blooms due to water eutrophication. Exposure to microcystins is a global health problem because of its association with various other pathological effects and people all over the world are exposed to microcystins on a regular basis. Evidence shows that microcystin-LR (MC-LR) may adversely affect the immune system, but its specific effects on immune functions are lacking. In the present review, immunotoxicological effects associated with MC-LR in animals, humans, and in vitro models have been reported. Overall, the data shows that chronic exposure to MC-LR has the potential to impair vital immune responses which could lead to increased risk of various diseases including cancers. Studies in animal and in vitro models have provided some pivotal understanding into the potential mechanisms of MC-LR related immunotoxicity suggesting that further investigation, particularly in humans, is required to better understand the relationship between development of disease and the MC-LR exposure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c2/0e/PMC4746376.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3506039", "abstract": "Acute ischemic lesions of the posterior optic nerve and optic tract can produce a variety of visual field defects. A 71-year-old woman presented with acute hemianopia, which led to rt-PA thrombolysis for suspected posterior cerebral artery ischemia. 3-Tesla cMRI, however, revealed the cause to be an acute posterior ischemic optic neuropathy. Cases like this may be more common than thought and quite regularly overlooked in clinical practice, especially when there is no high-resolution MRI available. This case strengthens the importance of repeat MR imaging in patients with persistent visual field defects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/de/c0/crn-0004-0173.PMC3506039.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4725557", "abstract": "Background: The Composite International Diagnostic Interview-3.0 (CIDI-3.0) is a fully structured lay-administered diagnostic interview for the assessment of mental disorders according to ICD-10 and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria. The aim of the study was to investigate the concurrent validity of the Chinese CIDI in diagnosing mental disorders in psychiatric settings. Methods: We recruited 208 participants, of whom 148 were patients from two psychiatric hospitals and 60 healthy people from communities. These participants were administered with CIDI by six trained lay interviewers and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID-I, gold standard) by two psychiatrists. Agreement between CIDI and SCID-I was assessed with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value. Individual-level CIDI-SCID diagnostic concordance was evaluated using the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve and Cohen's K. Results: Substantial to excellent CIDI to SCID concordance was found for any substance use disorder (area under the receiver operator characteristic curve [AUC] = 0.926), any anxiety disorder (AUC = 0.807) and any mood disorder (AUC = 0.806). The concordance between the CIDI and the SCID for psychotic and eating disorders is moderate. However, for individual mental disorders, the CIDI-SCID concordance for bipolar disorders (AUC = 0.55) and anorexia nervosa (AUC = 0.50) was insufficient. Conclusions: Overall, the Chinese version of CIDI-3.0 has acceptable validity in diagnosing the substance use disorder, anxiety disorder and mood disorder among Chinese adult population. However, we should be cautious when using it for bipolar disorders and anorexia nervosa.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0d/2d/CMJ-128-2462.PMC4725557.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5141540", "abstract": "Hypoxemia is a complication of pneumonia—the leading infectious cause of death in children worldwide. Treatment generally requires oxygen-enriched air, but access in low-resource settings is expensive and unreliable. We explored use of reservoir cannulas (RCs), which yield oxygen savings in adults but have not been examined in children. Toddler, small child, and adolescent breathing profiles were simulated with artificial lung and airway models. An oxygen concentrator provided flow rates of 0 to 5 L/min via a standard nasal cannula (NC) or RC, and delivered oxygen fraction (FdO2) was measured. The oxygen savings ratio (SR) and absolute flow savings (AFS) were calculated, comparing NC and RC. We demonstrated proof-of-concept that pendant RCs could conserve oxygen during pediatric therapy. SR mean and standard deviation were 1.1 ± 0.2 to 1.4 ± 0.4, 1.1 ± 0.1 to 1.7 ± 0.3, and 1.3 ± 0.1 to 2.4 ± 0.3 for toddler, small child, and adolescent models, respectively. Maximum AFS observed were 0.3 ± 0.3, 0.2 ± 0.1, and 1.4 ± 0.3 L/min for the same models. RCs have the potential to reduce oxygen consumption during treatment of hypoxemia in children; however, further evaluation of products is needed, followed by clinical analysis in patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0a/5f/PMC5141540.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3388682", "abstract": "Thromboelastography and thromboelastometry represent viscoelastic diagnostic methodologies with promising application to diseases of altered coagulation. Their use in trauma-induced coagulopathy as a means of assessing the real-time status of the patient's functional coagulation profile in addition to its impact on effective and appropriate use of blood product support has been gaining acceptance among trauma surgeons, anesthesiologists, and transfusion medicine specialists. However, the ability of viscoelastic testing to augment or supplant conventional coagulation testing for the diagnosis and management of trauma-induced coagulopathy remains controversial. Many of these issues pertain to the differences in methodology, instrumentation, logic, accessibility, ease of use, operator variability, and the method's relationship to patient care, blood product use, cost, and conventional testing algorithms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c7/93/PMC3388682.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3714121", "abstract": "Scientists undoubtedly owe their great advance and knowledge in biomedical research to millions of animals which they use every year in often-times extremely painful and distressing scientific procedures. One of the important issues in scientific research is to consider ethics in animal experimentation. Since this is a crucial issue in the modern era of medical research, in this paper, we have provided some guidelines (most of which have been adopted from Guidelines for Ethical Conduct in the Care and Use of Animals provided by American Association of Psychologists) which could be useful for researchers to design studies on a variety of animals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/53/eb/jmehm-2-12.PMC3714121.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3536318", "abstract": " Introduction. There is no report about risk factors for renal deterioration according to the clinical stage, divided by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in type 2 diabetes. Materials and Methods. We evaluated the factors correlated with the annual eGFR decline in 1303 subjects with type 2 diabetes whose eGFR was ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2. eGFR strata were defined by baseline eGFR value as follows: stratum 1: ≥90, stratum 2: ≥60, <90, and stratum 3: ≥30, <60. Results. The annual eGFR decline was 2.3 ± 5.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 in overall subjects. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that age, male sex, systolic blood pressure, logarithmically transformed albumin excretion rate (AER), eGFR strata, and hemoglobin concentration were significantly correlated with the annual eGFR decline. When stratified by eGFR, the factors that showed a significant correlation were different among eGFR strata. AER was significantly correlated with annual eGFR decline in all eGFR strata. Hemoglobin concentration showed a significant correlation only in the advanced eGFR stratum. Conclusion. The factors correlated with the annual eGFR decline were different among eGFR strata in type 2 diabetes mellitus, and hemoglobin concentration and AER were important factors for renal deterioration, especially in the advanced eGFR stratum.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0c/8b/PMC3536318.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3521953", "abstract": "Self expandable metal stent can be used both as palliative treatment for malignant colorectal obstruction and as a bridge to surgery in patients with potentially resectable colorectal cancer. Here, we report a case of successful relief of malignant stomal obstruction using a metal stent. A 56-year-old man underwent loop ileostomy and was given palliative chemotherapy for ascending colon cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis. Eight months after the surgery, he complained of abdominal pain and decreased fecal output. Computed tomography and endoscopy revealed malignant stomal obstruction. Due to his poor clinical condition, we inserted the stent at the stomal orifice, instead of additional surgery, and his obstructive symptoms were successfully relieved. Stent insertion is thought to be a good alternative treatment for malignant stomal obstruction, instead of surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/18/6f/ce-45-448.PMC3521953.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3964690", "abstract": "Traumatic workplace-related injuries (WRIs) carry a substantial negative impact on the public health worldwide. We aimed to study the incidence and outcomes of WRIs in Qatar. We conducted occupational injury surveillance for all WRI patients between 2010 and 2012. A total of 5152 patients were admitted to the level 1 trauma unit in Qatar, of which 1496 (29", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3f/fb/PMC3964690.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2883783", "abstract": "Abstract Intracranial meningeal hemangiopericytomas are rare tumors that can mimic meningioma on imaging and on histopathology. However, these tumors are more aggressive with a tendency for local and metastatic recurrence, sometimes after a prolonged symptom-free interval. We report an unusual metastatic recurrence of an intracranial hemangiopericytoma, 8 years after surgery for the primary tumor and discuss the role of positron emission tomography/computed tomography in the follow-up of these patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/63/a7/PMC2883783.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2693573", "abstract": "The impact the metabolic syndrome (MetS) components on the severity of insulin resistance (IR) has not been reported. We enrolled 564 subjects with MetS and they were divided into quartiles according to the level of each component; and an insulin suppression test was performed to measure IR. In males, steady state plasma glucose (SSPG) levels in the highest quartiles, corresponding to body mass index (BMI) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG), were higher than the other three quartiles and the highest quartiles, corresponding to the diastolic blood pressure and triglycerides, were higher than in the lowest two quartiles. In females, SSPG levels in the highest quartiles, corresponding to the BMI and triglycerides, were higher than in all other quartiles. No significant differences existed between genders, other than the mean SSPG levels in males were greater in the highest quartile corresponding to BMI than that in the highest quartile corresponding to HDL-cholesterol levels. The factor analysis identified two underlying factors (IR and blood pressure factors) among the MetS variables. The clustering of the SSPG, BMI, triglyceride and HDL-cholesterol was noted. Our data suggest that adiposity, higher FPG and triglyceride levels have stronger correlation with IR and subjects with the highest BMI have the highest IR.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/f9/jkms-22-74.PMC2693573.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3885842", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of lumbar stability exercises on chronic low back pain by using sling exercise and push-ups. [Subjects] Thirty adult subjects with chronic back pain participated, with 10 adults being assigned to each of 3 exercise groups: general physical therapy (PT), lumbar stability using sling exercises (Sling Ex), and sling exercise plus push-ups (Sling Ex+PU). Each group trained for 30 minutes 3 times a week for 6 weeks. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), surface electromyographic (sEMG) activity of the lumbar muscles, and cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle on computed tomography (CT) were evaluated before and at 2, 4, and 6 weeks of therapy. [Results] A significant decrease in ODI was seen in all therapy groups, and this change was greater in the Sling Ex and Sling Ex+PU groups than in the PT group. No changes in sEMG activity were noted in the PT group, whereas significant increases in the sEMG activities of all lumbar muscles were found in the other 2 groups. The increases in the sEMG activities of the rectus abdominis and internal and external oblique muscles of the abdomen were greater in the Sling Ex+PU group than in the other 2 groups. [Conclusion] These findings demonstrate that Sling Ex+PU, similar to normal lumbar stabilization exercise, is effective in activating and improving the function of the lumbar muscles. These results suggest that Sling Ex+PU has a positive impact on stabilization of the lumbar region.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1f/02/jpts-25-1575.PMC3885842.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4627670", "abstract": "Background This paper is a commentary to a debate article entitled: “Are we overpathologizing everyday life? A tenable blueprint for behavioral addiction research”, by Billieux et al. (2015). Methods and aim This brief response focused on the necessity to better characterize psychological and related neurocognitive determinants of persistent deleterious actions associated or not with substance utilization. Results A majority of addicted people could be driven by psychological functional reasons to keep using drugs, gambling or buying despite the growing number of related negative consequences. In addition, a non-negligible proportion of them would need assistance to restore profound disturbances in basic learning processes involved in compulsive actions. Conclusions The distinction between psychological functionality and compulsive aspects of addictive behaviors should represent a big step towards more efficient treatments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/24/c3/PMC4627670.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3696961", "abstract": "Background: Cardiovascular diseases have the highest death rates in human society. Coronary artery disease is among the most important of these diseases. No treatment of cardiovascular disease has as much impact on the quality of life of the patients as the heart surgery. The recovery from heart surgery is associated with symptoms of pain and psychological distress. In the early recovery period, the patients will face moderate symptoms of anxiety and depression. In this regard, various measures of nursing, as complementary therapy practices have been performed to help the patients for overcoming the physical and psychological needs. One of these methods, in recent years has been the use of complementary and alternative therapies, particularly massage therapy, after heart surgery. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of massage therapy on the mood of patients after open-heart surgery in Isfahan Chamran Hospital during 2010-11. Materials and Methods: In this study 72 patients, who underwent coronary artery bypass surgery, were selected. They were randomly assigned to the two case and control groups. The patients of the case group (n = 36) received Swedish massage for 20 minutes in 4 sessions in 4 consecutive days, 3 to 6 days after the open-heart surgery. The patients in the control group received only the routine care. The mood questionnaire (POMS) which was used in this study has been completed the day before the start of the study and intervention and again after the last day of the intervention. SPSS software version 12 and descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used for data analysis. Findings: The comparison of study results showed that massage decreased the overall rating of the patients’ mood after the surgery. Conclusions: The use of massage therapy as an effective nursing intervention can improve the patients’ mood after open-heart surgery. Due to the low cost and simplicity of this method, it can perhaps be used as a complement to drug therapy and postoperative interventions used in these patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/16/9d/IJNMR-17-120.PMC3696961.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2213592", "abstract": "The skin epidermis and its appendages provide a protective barrier that is impermeable to harmful microbes and also prevents dehydration. To perform their functions while being confronted with the physicochemical traumas of the environment, these tissues undergo continual rejuvenation through homeostasis, and, in addition, they must be primed to undergo wound repair in response to injury. The skin's elixir for maintaining tissue homeostasis, regenerating hair, and repairing the epidermis after injury is its stem cells, which reside in the adult hair follicle, sebaceous gland, and epidermis. Stem cells have the remarkable capacity to both self-perpetuate and also give rise to the differentiating cells that constitute one or more tissues. In recent years, scientists have begun to uncover the properties of skin stem cells and unravel the mysteries underlying their remarkable capacity to perform these feats. In this paper, I outline the basic lineages of the skin epithelia and review some of the major findings about mammalian skin epithelial stem cells that have emerged in the past five years.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/bf/jcb1800273.PMC2213592.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2887335", "abstract": "The WHO published a dictionary-type book entitled ‘WHO International Standard Terminologies on Traditional Medicine in the Western Pacific Region’ which has a total of 3259 technical terms which have been commonly used in traditional Chinese (TCM), Japanese (Kampo), Korean (TKM) and Vietnamese (TVM) medicines. In this comprehensive guide, each term has the English expression, the original Chinese character and a concise English definition. The book covers 3106 terms from basic theories, diagnostics, diseases, various therapeutics including acupuncture and moxibustion and even the English wording of 153 titles which are considered the most important traditional medical classics published in these four countries. A prominent feature of the compilation is the codification format that assigns numbers in hundred decimal units for each category of the section. This type of coding system provides the flexibility for adding more terminologies in the future and is useful for constructing a database for the retrieval of various published scientific articles. Overall, the usage of these standard terminologies is highly desirable to deliver accurate meanings, and ultimately to avoid a variety of expressions for a single term in different scientific manuscripts on Oriental medicine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/23/24/PMC2887335.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5402602", "abstract": "Abstract Introduction: We report on the anesthetic management using opioid-free method of a patient with Steinert syndrome (myotonic dystrophy, MD), autosomal dominant dystrophy which is characterized by consistent contracture of muscle following stimulation. A myotonic crisis can be induced by numerous factors including hypothermia, shivering, and mechanical or electrical stimulation. In patients with MD, hypersensitivity to anesthetic drugs, especially muscle relaxants and opioids, may complicate postoperative management. If opioids are employed (systemic or neuraxial), then ICU care and continuous pulse oximetry must be considered given the high risk for respiratory depression and aspiration. Patients with MD present high sensitivity to the usual anesthetics such as volatile and muscle relaxants (both depolarizing and nondepolarizing). Opioids may induce muscle rigidity in this type of MD. Therefore, omitting opioids is recommended. Due to hypersensitivity to opioids and increased susceptibility to intra- and postoperative complications, it is recommended to introduce opioid-free anesthesia (OFA), for example, with use of dexmedetomidine (DEX). This is a new method of conducting general anesthesia without opioids and is based on concept of multimodal approach to pain management. Methods: A 31-year-old male patient (183 cm, 69 kg) was scheduled for laparoscopic operation of cholecystectomy. The patient received intravenously (IV): propofol in a dose of 250 mg followed by continuous infusion, rocuronium in a dose of 20 mg, and DEX in a loading dose of 0.6 μg/kg over 10 minutes followed by continuous infusion of dose of 0.2 μg/kg/hour. Results: The course of anesthesia and postoperative period were uneventful. The patient exited the operating theatre in a good medical state, with vitals within normal limits and fully regained consciousness. Conclusion: DEX is effective and safe for moderately painful procedures in patients with the elevated risk of respiratory and cardiovascular failure. This substance provides adequate analgesia level during surgeries of patients suffering from MD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d4/4f/medi-95-e4885.PMC5402602.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4899079", "abstract": "We report a case of solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) of greater omentum in a young woman. SFT arising from the greater omentum can mimic a gynecologic neoplasm. SFTs are generally benign but some of them are malignant and have uncertain prognosis. An adequate follow-up is essential in these patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6f/58/main.PMC4899079.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2698627", "abstract": "Anisakidae larvae can cause anisakiasis when ingested by humans. Although several groups have reported a gastrointestinal Anisakis allergy among people in Spain and Japan, our report is the first to summarize the clinical features of 10 Anisakis allergy cases in Korea. We enrolled 10 Korean patients (6 men and 4 women) who complained of aggravated allergic symptoms after ingesting raw fish or seafood. Sensitization to Anisakis was confirmed by detecting serum specific IgE to Anisakis simplex. The most common manifestation of anisakiasis was urticaria (100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f5/aa/PMC2698627.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3090044", "abstract": "Hyperphosphorylated and aggregated human protein tau constitutes a hallmark of a multitude of neurodegenerative diseases called tauopathies, exemplified by Alzheimer's disease. In spite of an enormous amount of research performed on tau biology, several crucial questions concerning the mechanisms of tau toxicity remain unanswered. In this paper we will highlight some of the processes involved in tau biology and pathology, focusing on tau phosphorylation and the interplay with oxidative stress. In addition, we will introduce the development of a human tau-expressing yeast model, and discuss some crucial results obtained in this model, highlighting its potential in the elucidation of cellular processes leading to tau toxicity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/a0/PMC3090044.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3631829", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between microaneurysm (MA) turnover using automated analysis of fundus photographs (RetmarkerDR; Critical Health SA) and development of clinically significant macular edema (CSME) in nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A prospective, monocenter, observational study was designed to follow eyes/patients with type 2 diabetes and NPDR (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study levels 20 and 35) with no prior laser treatment for 2 years or until development of CSME. A total of 410 patients, one eye per patient, fulfilled the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were included in the study. Ophthalmologic examinations including best corrected visual acuity, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography were performed at baseline, 6 months, and at the last study visit (24 months or before laser treatment). RESULTS A total of 348 eyes/patients performed the 24-month visit or developed CSME. Of these 348 eyes/patients, 26 developed CSME. HbA1c levels at baseline and MA turnover (i.e., the sum of the MA formation and disappearance rates) computed during the first 6 months of follow-up were found to be independently predictive factors for development of CSME. MA turnover was 11.2 ± 11.2 in the 26 eyes/patients that developed CSME and 5.0 ± 5.2 in the remaining 322 (P < 0.001). Higher MA turnover values correlated with earlier development of CSME. MA turnover predictive values for CSME development were, for the positive predictive value, 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c6/37/1254.PMC3631829.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2651449", "abstract": "Congenital anomalies of the aortic arch have clinical importance, as the anomalies may be associated with vascular rings or other congenital cardiovascular diseases. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography enables one to display the detailed anatomy of vascular structures and the spatial relationships with adjacent organs; this ability is the greatest advantage of the use of MDCT angiography in comparison to other imaging modalities in the evaluation of the congenital anomalies of the aortic arch. In this review article, we illustrate 16-slice MDCT angiography appearances of congenital anomalies of the aortic arch.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d0/1e/kjr-10-176.PMC2651449.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3013677", "abstract": "Alternative splicing is emerging as a major mechanism for the expansion of the transcriptome and proteome diversity, particularly in human and other vertebrates. However, the proportion of alternative transcripts and proteins actually endowed with functional activity is currently highly debated. We present here a new release of ASPicDB which now provides a unique annotation resource of human protein variants generated by alternative splicing. A total of 256 939 protein variants from 17 191 multi-exon genes have been extensively annotated through state of the art machine learning tools providing information of the protein type (globular and transmembrane), localization, presence of PFAM domains, signal peptides, GPI-anchor propeptides, transmembrane and coiled-coil segments. Furthermore, full-length variants can be now specifically selected based on the annotation of CAGE-tags and polyA signal and/or polyA sites, marking transcription initiation and termination sites, respectively. The retrieval can be carried out at gene, transcript, exon, protein or splice site level allowing the selection of data sets fulfilling one or more features settled by the user. The retrieval interface also enables the selection of protein variants showing specific differences in the annotated features. ASPicDB is available at http://www.caspur.it/ASPicDB/.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/16/gkq1073.PMC3013677.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1538918", "abstract": "We describe Protogene, a server that can turn a protein multiple sequence alignment into the equivalent alignment of the original gene coding DNA. Protogene relies on a pipeline where every initial protein sequence is BLASTed against RefSeq or NR. The annotation associated with potential matches is used to identify the gene sequence. This gene sequence is then aligned with the query protein using Exonerate in order to extract a coding nucleotide sequence matching the original protein. Protogene can handle protein fragments and will return every CDS coding for a given protein, even if they occur in different genomes. Protogene is available from .", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/6f/PMC1538918.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3249317", "abstract": "Cystic adventitial disease is rare, but it is one of the well-recognized causes of non-atherosclerotic arterial stenosis or obstruction. Despite one of its most common symptoms being chronic intermittent claudication, it may be misdiagnosed as arterial embolism when presented with acute ischemic symptoms. Surgical resection is recommended because of recurrence or a low success rate with aspiration or endovascular stent. We performed resection and repair with autologous vein patch for cystic adventitial disease of the popliteal artery of a 57-year-old man presenting with pain, pallor, and paresthesia, without any postoperative complications or recurrence.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/d0/kjtcs-44-266.PMC3249317.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3262987", "abstract": "Background Myotonic dystrophy (MD1) is a hereditary autosomal dominant disease with variable penetrance. Cardiac conduction disturbances are frequent and may be responsible for sudden death, but its progression was heretofore unknown. Aims The aim of the study was to analyse the natural history of infrahissian conduction time in patients with a normal first electrophysiological test, and to identify the predictive value of the clinical and ECG factors accompanying an alteration of infrahissian conduction. Methods Among 127 consecutive screened MD patients, 25 were enrolled and underwent a second electrophysiological testing. The second electrophysiological test was carried out on patients showing new symptoms, new atrioventricular conduction disturbances on ECG, or significant modifications of signal-averaged (SA)-ECG, and on asymptomatic patients with a follow-up of at least 60 months since the first electrophysiological test. Results Among the 25 patients, four had new clinical symptoms, four others developed new atrioventricular conduction abnormalities on ECG and six had significant modifications of the SA-ECG. The mean His-ventricle (HV) interval increased significantly between the two electrophysiological studies (initial HV interval 52.1 ms±1.6 ms, final HV interval 61.4 ms±2.2 ms, p<0.005), with a mean increase of 1.2 ms/year. The five patients with HV interval of 70 ms or greater were implanted with a prophylactic dual-chamber pacemaker. Modifications of resting ECG and SA-ECG were strongly associated with HV interval prolongation. Conclusion In patients with a normal initial electrophysiological study, modifications on the resting ECG and/or SA-ECG, on annual check-up, were associated with an alteration of infrahissian conduction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/6c/heartjnl-2011-300143.PMC3262987.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2899773", "abstract": "Introduction: The available treatment options for euvolemic and hypervolemic hyponatremia are limited, and consist mainly of fluid restriction, diuresis, or hypertonic solutions. Most of these therapies are neither well tolerated nor totally effective, and many are associated with significant adverse effects. Vasopressin receptor antagonists, also known as vaptans, are a new class of agents that now offer an additional treatment option for hyponatremic patients. Conivaptan hydrochloride, a competitive antagonist of vasopressin V1a and V2 receptors, is the first agent in this class to be approved for treatment of euvolemic and hypervolemic hyponatremia in hospitalized patients. Aims: This review critically assesses the evidence that support the use of conivaptan for the treatment of patients with euvolemic and hypervolemic hyponatremia. Evidence review conclusion: Conivaptan is effective in raising serum sodium levels in a predictable and safe fashion in euvolemic and hypervolemic hyponatremic patients. Conivaptan provides the first molecularly targeted approach for correcting hyponatremia in hospitalized patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cb/61/PMC2899773.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2771278", "abstract": "The free radical nitric oxide (NO) is an important signaling molecule in the gastrointestinal tract. Besides eukaryotic cells, gut microorganisms are also capable of producing NO. However, the exact mechanism of NO production by the gut microorganisms is unknown. Microbial NO production was examined under in vitro conditions simulating the gastrointestinal ecosystem using L-arginine or nitrate as substrates. L-arginine did not influence the microbial NO production. However, NO concentrations in the order of 90 ng NO-N per L feed medium were produced by the fecal microbiota from nitrate. 15N tracer experiments showed that nitrate was mainly reduced to ammonium by the dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) pathway. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing that gastrointestinal microbiota can generate substantial amounts of NO by DNRA and not by the generally accepted denitrification or L-arginine pathway. Further work is needed to elucidate the exact role between NO produced by the gastrointestinal microbiota and host cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bd/02/PMC2771278.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5214937", "abstract": "Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan parasite that infects rodents as part of its natural transmission cycle and induces disease in humans, an end-stage host. As one of the natural hosts of T. gondii, the mouse has been used extensively for elucidating the cellular and molecular basis of immunity to this pathogen while relatively few studies have focused on the response of humans. In our recent work, we identified CD16+ monocytes and DC1 dendritic cells as the major myeloid cell populations that respond to T. gondii in human peripheral blood. Interestingly, these myeloid subsets represent the opposite counterparts from those triggered by the parasite in mice. Moreover, whereas the innate cytokine response to T. gondii in the mouse involves stimulation of Toll-like receptors by a soluble parasite ligand, the response of human cells instead requires phagocytosis of the live pathogen. We speculate that these marked distinctions in the pathways utilized for innate recognition of toxoplasma in mouse and man reflect the differing roles of the two hosts in the biology of this parasite.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/23/cmi201612a.PMC5214937.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3354453", "abstract": "Background: Over the last few decades, oral health care has become a greater priority as people live longer with serious medical conditions and disabilities. As a result, they require more comprehensive dental treatment. We are now, more than ever, at a turning point in history where dental care, or more broadly oral health care, is an integral part of medical care. Therefore, a need was felt to study the prevalence of medically compromised patients seeking dental treatments. Materials and Methods: The present study was a retrospective study conducted by reviewing the patient records starting from 1st January 2009 to 31st December 2010 for the presence of medically compromised conditions. Demographic data of the patients was also collected. Results: The prevalence of medically compromised conditions in dental patients of our hospital in the present study was 1.02", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/5e/JCDR-3-113.PMC3354453.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3678896", "abstract": "As increasing numbers of anesthetists perform eye block anesthesia, thorough understandings of peribulbar injection techniques are important for safe practice. There is uncertainty in the literature regarding the optimum needle length, entry point, volume of injectate, and use of single vs double-injection techniques. A modified technique of peribulbar block anesthesia is presented, which offers increased safety, simplicity, low cost, and little change to instrumentation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/04/cb/PMC3678896.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3151399", "abstract": "Purpose of the study To evaluate the value of a pelvic X-ray compared to clinical examination in diagnosing pelvic ring fractures, using computed tomography (CT) as the gold standard, in alert [Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) ≥ 13] adult blunt trauma patients in the emergency room. Methods A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed and Embase. The results were screened on their titles and abstracts using in- and exclusion criteria. Subsequently, the selected articles were critically appraised for their relevance and validity. Results Two studies investigating the diagnostic value of clinical examination and pelvic X-ray compared to CT were identified. Both studies demonstrate higher negative predictive values for clinical examination [0.99 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a7/f6/68_2011_Article_76.PMC3151399.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3352383", "abstract": "Harvesting of marine resources raises concerns about how to identify and preserve biocomplexity, including the diversity of life histories found within and among wild populations of a species. In order to fully accomplish this, there is a need to elucidate the underlying causes of phenotypic variation, and how this variation responds to environmental changes. In general, both evolutionary (genetic) and nonevolutionary (plastic) responses may occur. Plastic responses to environmental change are expected to shift the phenotype along a reaction norm, while an evolutionary response is expected to shift the reaction norm itself. Here, we assess the maturation patterns of coastal Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) in Skagerrak, where studies using neutral markers have revealed genetically differentiated populations of this harvested fish within tens of kilometres of coastline. Our results suggest that physiological state prior to the spawning season, as well as juvenile growth, both influence the probability of completing sexual maturation at a given age. Furthermore, our results point towards a spatial structuring of this plasticity (i.e. the maturation reaction norms) comparable with population connectivity inferred from neutral markers. We argue that such fine-scale biocomplexity calls for a Darwinian approach to fisheries management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7c/07/PMC3352383.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3638182", "abstract": "Objective Significant limitations exist in the timely and complete identification of primary and recurrent cancers for clinical and epidemiologic research. A SAS-based coding, extraction, and nomenclature tool (SCENT) was developed to address this problem. Materials and methods SCENT employs hierarchical classification rules to identify and extract information from electronic pathology reports. Reports are analyzed and coded using a dictionary of clinical concepts and associated SNOMED codes. To assess the accuracy of SCENT, validation was conducted using manual review of pathology reports from a random sample of 400 breast and 400 prostate cancer patients diagnosed at Kaiser Permanente Southern California. Trained abstractors classified the malignancy status of each report. Results Classifications of SCENT were highly concordant with those of abstractors, achieving κ of 0.96 and 0.95 in the breast and prostate cancer groups, respectively. SCENT identified 51 of 54 new primary and 60 of 61 recurrent cancer cases across both groups, with only three false positives in 792 true benign cases. Measures of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value exceeded 94", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/23/amiajnl-2012-000928.PMC3638182.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4503578", "abstract": " Background and Aims. Inflammatory mediators that cross-talk in different metabolically active organs are thought to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). This study was aimed at investigating the CD4+RORγt+ T-helper cells and their counterpart, the CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells in the liver, subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and abdominal adipose tissue (AAT) in a high fat diet (HFD) mouse model. Methods. C57BL6 mice were fed a HFD or a normal diet (ND). Liver enzymes, metabolic parameters, and liver histology were assessed. The expression of CD4+RORγt+ cells and regulatory T cells in different organs (blood, liver, AAT, and SAT) were analyzed by flow cytometry. Cytokine and adipokine tissue expression were studied by RT-PCR. Results. Mice fed a HFD developed NASH and metabolic alterations compared to normal diet. CD4+RORγt++ cells were significantly increased in the liver and the AAT while an increase of regulatory T cells was observed in the SAT of mice fed HFD compared to ND. Inflammatory cytokines were also upregulated. Conclusions. CD4+RORγt++ cells and regulatory T cells are altered in NASH with a site-specific pattern and correlate with the severity of the disease. These site-specific differences are associated with increased cytokine expression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/8e/PMC4503578.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4806700", "abstract": "We present the annotation of the draft genome sequence of Oscheius sp. TEL-2014 (Genbank accession number KM492926). This entomopathogenic nematode was isolated from grassland in Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve near Johannesburg in South Africa. Oscheius sp. Strain TEL has a genome size of 110,599,558 bp and a GC content of 42.24", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/02/d0/main.PMC4806700.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5292987", "abstract": "The treatment of end-stage hemophilic arthropathy of the ankle joint remains a controversial problem, and total ankle replacement (TAR) is considered to be a valuable management option. Physiotherapy continues to be an extremely important part of TAR and has a tremendous impact on the outcomes of this procedure. Given the lack of data on the latter, this study details a protocol of perioperative physiotherapy in TAR in patients with inherited bleeding disorders (IBD). The protocol outlined in this paper was devised via consultations within an interdisciplinary group, the authors’ own experiences with TAR in hemophilic and non-hemophilic patients, previous reports on this issue in the literature, and patient opinions. Our working group followed the criteria of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. The algorithm includes 4 physiotherapy phases with specified time frames, aims, interventions, and examples of exercises for each phase. We emphasize the importance of preoperative rehabilitation, and recommend introducing intensive physiotherapy immediately after the surgery, with regard to the wound protection and avoiding full weight-bearing in the first weeks. The intensity of physiotherapy should be adjusted individually depending on individual patient progress. This study details a rehabilitation protocol for TAR in patients with IBDs, which can be equally applicable to clinicians and researchers. Further scientific studies are required to investigate the beneficial effect of different protocols as well as to clarify the effectiveness of various frequencies, durations, and intensities of selected interventions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/32/23/PMC5292987.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3322677", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE Unlike visceral adipose tissue (VAT), the association between subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and obesity-related morbidity is controversial. In patients with type 2 diabetes, we assessed whether this variability can be explained by a putative favorable, distinct association between abdominal superficial SAT (SSAT) (absolute amount or its proportion) and cardiometabolic parameters. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We performed abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 73 patients with diabetes (mean age 58 years, 83", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/0f/640.PMC3322677.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3980215", "abstract": "KRIT1 is an 84kDa protein that lacks any relevant catalytic domains, associated with the cerebral cavernous malformation disease. We have investigated by means of ultrastructural immunocytochemistry the nuclear distribution of KRIT1 in different cell lines, revealing its unexpected localization on actively transcribing nuclear domains such as the perichromatin fibrils and the nucleolar dense fibrillar component. These preliminary data indicate a still undescribed and unknown role for KRIT1 inside the nucleus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/2e/ejh-2014-1-2358.PMC3980215.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3178442", "abstract": " Aim. To investigate the effect of C factor on marginal adaptation of low-shrinking composite (Silorane).The null hypothesis was that the marginal adaptation of “Silorane” is not affected by the cavity configuration. Materials and Methods. A Silorane based and a methacrylate based composites, with their corresponding self-etch adhesive systems “Filtek Silorane/Silorane Adhesive Bond System and Filtek Z250/Prompt L-Pop” respectively were used. Standardized cavities were prepared on the buccal surfaces of 100 maxillary premolars. Teeth were grouped into 5 groups (n = 20), for the 5 C factors. Restored teeth were subjected to thermocycling. Microleakage testing was done and linear dye penetration was assessed using a stereomicroscope. Statistical analysis was done using the Student's t-test. Results. For the methacrylate based systems' overall leakage score was significantly higher than the Silorane-based one (P = 0.034). For the methacrylate-based, leakage was found in all tested teeth groups except group 1 (C factor 1/5). For the Silorane, One-way ANOVA revealed a statistically significant increase in dye penetration in the 5th group (P = 0.010). Conclusions. The null hypothesis was rejected. The Silorane-based resin although it resulted in a statistically significant good marginal adaptation, it showed tendency toward a high leakage score with C-factor of 5.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9f/9e/PMC3178442.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3202095", "abstract": "Snail is one of the important components of an aquatic ecosystem, it acts as intermediate host of Fasciola species. Control of snail population below a certain threshold level is one of the important methods in the campaign to reduce the incidence of fascioliasis. Life cycle of the parasite can be interrupted by killing the snail or Fasciola larva redia and cercaria in the snail body. In vivo and in vitro toxicity of the plant products and their active component such as citral, ferulic acid, umbelliferone, azadirachtin, and allicin against larva of Fasciola in infected snail Lymnaea acuminata were tested. Mortality of larvae were observed at 2 h, 4 h, 6 h, and 8 h, of treatment. In in vivo treatment, azadirachtin caused highest mortality in redia and cercaria larva (8 h, LC50 0.11, and 0.05 mg/L) whereas in in vitro condition allicin was highly toxic against redia and cercaria (8 h, LC50 0.01, and 0.009 mg/L). Toxicity of citral was lowest against redia and cercaria larva.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2f/b8/PMC3202095.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3658488", "abstract": "An experiment was carried out to define the optimal rate of palm-press fibres in growing rabbits' diet. In total, 64 weaned rabbits (35 days old) of Beninese breed were divided in 16 groups of 4 rabbits (2 males and 2 females) each. During six weeks, rabbits were fed with 4 complete diets containing 0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/60/fa/PMC3658488.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4728093", "abstract": "Acute subdural hematoma (SDH) of arterial origin is rare, especially SDH associated with an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is extremely rare. The authors report a case of acute spontaneous SDH due to rupture of a tiny cortical AVM. A 51-year-old male presented with sudden onset headache and mentality deterioration without a history of trauma. Brain CT revealed a large volume acute SDH compressing the right cerebral hemisphere with subfalcine and tentorial herniation. Emergency decompressive craniectomy was performed to remove the hematoma and during surgery a small (5 mm sized) conglomerated aciniform mass with two surrounding enlarged vessels was identified on the parietal cortex. After warm saline irrigation of the mass, active bleeding developed from a one of the vessel. The bleeding was stopped by coagulation and the vessels were removed. Histopathological examination confirmed the lesion as an AVM. We concluded that a small cortical AVM existed at this area, and that the cortical AVM had caused the acute SDH. Follow up conventional angiography confirmed the absence of remnant AVM or any other vascular abnormality. This report demonstrates rupture of a cortical AVM is worth considering when a patient presents with non-traumatic SDH without intracerebral hemorrhage or subarachnoid hemorrhage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/d9/jkns-58-547.PMC4728093.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2731110", "abstract": "Ran GTPase activates several target molecules to induce microtubule formation around the chromosomes and centrosomes. In fission yeast, in which the nuclear envelope does not break down during mitosis, Ran targets the centrosomal transforming acidic coiled-coil (TACC) protein Alp7 for spindle formation. Alp7 accumulates in the nucleus only during mitosis, although its underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we investigate the behaviour of Alp7 and its binding partner, Alp14/TOG, throughout the cell cycle. Interestingly, Alp7 enters the nucleus during interphase but is subsequently exported to the cytoplasm by the Exportin-dependent nuclear export machinery. The continuous nuclear export of Alp7 during interphase is essential for maintaining the array-like cytoplasmic microtubule structure. The mitosis-specific nuclear accumulation of Alp7 seems to be under the control of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK). These results indicate that the spatiotemporal regulation of microtubule formation is established by the Alp7/TACC–Alp14/TOG complex through the coordinated interplay of Ran and CDK.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/97/45/embor2009158.PMC2731110.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3920717", "abstract": "Fragrant species of the genus Salvia have been attributed many medicinal properties, which include anticancer activity. In the present study, cytotoxic properties of total methanol extract of Salvia chloroleuca Rech. f.     Aellen and its fractions were investigated on MCF- 7, a breast carcinoma cell line. Malignant and non-malignant cells were cultured in RPMI medium and incubated with different concentrations of plant extracts. Cell viability was quantitated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) -5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl) -2-(4-sulphophenyl) -2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assay. Apoptotic cells were determined using propidium iodide (PI) staining of DNA fragmentation by flow cytometry (sub-G1 peak). S. chloroleuca inhibited the growth of malignant cells in a dose-dependent manner. Among solvent fractions of S. chloroleuca, the n-hexane and methylene chloride fractions were found to be more toxic compared to other fractions. S. chloroleuca-induced a sub-G1 peak in flow cytometry histogram of treated cells compared to control and DNA fragmentation suggested the induction of apoptosis. Administration of N-acetyl cysteine and vitamin C two ROS scavengers also resulted in significant inhibition of cytotoxicity induced by S. chloroleuca. These results support a mechanism whereby S. chloroleuca induces apoptosis of MCF-7 human breast cells through a ROS-mediated pathway. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/e3/PMC3920717.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5076667", "abstract": "Following a Listeria monocytogenes detection in a mozzarella cheese sampled at a dairy plant in Lazio Region, further investigations have been conducted both by the competent Authority and the food business operatordairy factory (as a part of dairy factory HACCP control). In total, 90 dairy products, 7 brine and 64 environmental samples have been tested. The prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes was 24.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/e8/ijfs-2014-1-1708.PMC5076667.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3291201", "abstract": "A 20-year (1985–2004) retrospective review of 39 patients with imported visceral leishmaniasis found that tourism to Mediterranean countries and HIV infection were associated with visceral leishmaniasis. Diagnosis was often delayed. Treatment with liposomal amphotericin B has improved prognosis. Visceral leishmaniasis should be made a reportable disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/93/PMC3291201.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3691801", "abstract": "Background: Colorectal cancer metastasis is a multistep process involving degradation of extracellular matrix components by proteolytic enzymes. Among them, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are the principal degrading enzymes and their expressions/activities are also correlated with survival. Much research has showed the associations between genetic polymorphisms in MMPs and risk of colorectal cancer; however, their prognostic significance has not been well determined. Methods: We selected and genotyped 4 cancer-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a cohort of 282 colorectal cancer patients. The associations of these SNPs with distant metastasis-free survival and overall survival were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier analysis, Cox regression model, and survival tree analysis. Results: The relative risks of developing distant metastasis after curative surgery were higher in individuals with minor homozygote AA genotype than in those with GG/GA genotypes at MMP2 rs243866 (P = 0.012). Survival tree analysis also identified a higher-order genetic interaction profile consisting of MMP2 rs243866 and MMP2 rs2285053 that was significantly associated with distant metastasis-free survival (Ptrend = 0.016). After adjusting for possible confounders, the genetic interaction profile remained significant (Ptrend = 0.050). Conclusions: These results suggest that genetic variations in the MMP2 might be potential predictors of distant metastasis-free survival after curative surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/56/ijmsv10p1022.PMC3691801.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4451996", "abstract": " Introduction. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is one of the systemic autoimmune diseases characterized by the polyclonal autoantibody production. The human homologue of the mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) is well known as the negative regulator of p53. MDM2 has been reported to be overexpressed in SLE animal model and to promote SLE. Since abnormally expressed proteins can induce autoimmune response, anti-MDM2 autoantibody was examined in SLE patients. Methods. Anti-MDM2 antibody in sera from 43 SLE patients and 69 healthy persons was investigated by ELISA. Positive samples were further confirmed by western blotting. The immunological feathers of anti-MDM2 positive sera were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence assay. Anti-p53 was also investigated in SLE patients by ELISA, and the correlation of anti-MDM2 and anti-p53 was analyzed. Results. The presence of anti-MDM2 in SLE patients was 23.30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/af/67/PMC4451996.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2740852", "abstract": "Few cases of malignant rhabdoid tumour (MRT) of the liver are reported in literature and always in paediatric patients. We report the first two cases of young adults submitted to hepatic resection for MRT of the liver. A major liver resection was performed in both cases. The histology showed round or fusiform, loosely cohesive cells. The cytoplasm contained abundant eosinophilic inclusions, which caused the nuclei to be located in eccentric locations, giving the characteristic rhabdoid appearance. The immunohistochemical study was performed, and characteristic lack of nuclear INI1 protein expression was found. In a case surgery was associated to chemoradiotherapy. One patient died at 48 months followup for tumour recurrence. The other is still alive at 25 months followup. MRTs are rare tumours of pediatric age with poor prognosis. Hypothetical less malignant behaviour in the young adults could be supposed. Therefore an aggressive surgical and oncological treatment seems justified.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9e/5a/PMC2740852.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4731644", "abstract": "Two new fungal species of the genus Talaromyces, Talaromyces purpurogenus and Talaromyces trachyspermus from the Trichocomaceae family, were recovered during an investigation of fungal communities in soil collected from the Gangwon-do and Jeollanam-do provinces of Korea. These two species have not been previously officially reported from Korea. In this study, detailed descriptions of internal transcribed spacer rDNA and beta-tubulin gene regions of these two fungi are presented. Morphological features of the two fungi in five agar media, potato dextrose, oatmeal, malt extract, czapek yeast extract, and yeast extract sucrose, are also reported. The species were identified on the basis of molecular and morphological analysis, and herein we present data with detailed descriptions and figures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/33/mb-43-402.PMC4731644.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4830699", "abstract": "A simple and highly sensitive spectrophotometric method was developed for the determination of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) as a marker for lipid peroxidation in fried fast foods. The method uses the reaction of malondialdehyde (MDA) and TBA in the glacial acetic acid medium. The method was precise, sensitive, and highly reproducible for quantitative determination of TBARS. The precision of extractions and analytical procedure was very high as compared to the reported methods. The method was used to determine the TBARS contents in the fried fast foods such as Shami kebab, samosa, fried bread, and potato chips. Shami kebab, samosa, and potato chips have higher amount of TBARS in glacial acetic acid-water extraction system than their corresponding pure glacial acetic acid and vice versa in fried bread samples. The method can successfully be used for the determination of TBARS in other food matrices, especially in quality control of food industries. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/57/06/PMC4830699.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4270722", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message A case of feverish benign neutropenia occurring in a diabetic patient receiving pregabalin for peripheral neuropathy is reported. Although pregabalin-induced neutropenia is very rare, it is important to keep in mind that this drug like other anticonvulsants used for neuropathic pain, can cause severe neutropenia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a6/ac/ccr30002-0336.PMC4270722.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897495", "abstract": " Background. There is a high incidence of failure after repair of severe perineal lacerations (SPLs). A tertiary referral hospital in the Caribbean introduced guidelines in an attempt to improve outcomes. We performed an audit of SPL repairs at this centre in an attempt to determine the effect on repair failure. Methods. All patients with SPL repairs between November 1, 2007, and December 30, 2012, were identified. The primary aim was to determine the incidence of failed repairs (wound dehiscence, anal sphincter disruption, rectovaginal fistula, and/or faecal incontinence). The Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCIS) was used to assess continence at discharge and 24 weeks after repair. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 12. Results. There were 8108 vaginal deliveries, 23 third-degree injuries, and 3 fourth-degree injuries. Three patients experienced a repair failure. Notably, 69", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b8/b5/PMC4897495.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4979263", "abstract": "Background: Premature infants are subjected to many painful procedures during care and treatment. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of music therapy on physiological and behavioral pain responses of premature infants during and after blood sampling. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-over clinical trial conducted on 20 infants in a hospital affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences for a 5-month period in 2011. In the experimental group, Transitions music was played from 5 min before until 10 min after blood sampling. The infants’ facial expressions and physiological measures were recorded from 10 min before until 10 min after sampling. All steps and measurements, except music therapy, were the same for the control group. Data were analyzed using SAS and SPSS software through analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Chi-square tests. Results: There were significant differences between the experimental and control groups (P = 0.022) in terms of heart rate during needle extraction and at the first 5 min after sampling (P = 0.005). Considering the infant's sleep–wake state in the second 5 min before sampling, the statistical difference was significant (P = 0.044). Difference was significant (P = 0.045) during injection of the needle, in the first 5 min after sampling (P = 0.002), and in the second 5 min after sampling (P = 0.005). There were significant difference in infants’ facial expressions of pain in the first 5 min after sampling (P = 0.001). Conclusions: Music therapy reduces the physiological and behavioral responses of pain during and after blood sampling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fb/b1/IJNMR-21-391.PMC4979263.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5074279", "abstract": "Abstract In patients with acute type A aortic dissection, intimal detachment associated with circumferential dissection of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) is a rare but lethal complication. We report a Marfan patient with dissection and intimal detachment of the LMCA that was caused by acute aortic dissection involving the left aortic sinus and that was reconstructed using a short reversed saphenous vein graft. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12746 (J Card Surg 2016;31:348–350) ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a9/3f/JOCS-31-348.PMC5074279.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3665571", "abstract": "Axenfeld–Rieger syndrome (ARS) is a genetic disorder representing a disease spectrum resulting from neural crest cell maldevelopment. Glaucoma is a common complication from the incomplete formation of the iridocorneal angle structures. Neural crest cells also form structures of the forebrain and pituitary gland, dental papillae, aortic arch walls, genitalia, and long bones; therefore, patients with ARS manifest a wide range of systemic findings. To our knowledge, detailed magnetic resonance imaging findings have not been previously reported. We report a case of a 19-month-old Indian male diagnosed with ARS with emphasis on magnetic resonance imaging findings of the globes, brain, teeth, and skull base.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/13/PMC3665571.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5149477", "abstract": "A 33 yr old man, previously diagnosed with hypothyroidism, presented with decreased level of consciousness and generalized tonic-clonic (GTC) seizure to Namazi hospital, Shiraz, Iran, during April 2015. The patient later referred with another episode of seizure like attack for which he received phenytoin, carbamazepine and levothyroxine and was discharged. During his last admission, the patient was admitted with chief complaints of decreased consciousness and four GTC attacks. On admission, the patients had aphasia, ataxia, loss of verbal communication, eye contact and complete loss of obedience. Thyroid function tests showed low levels of T3 and T4 with high levels of thyroid stimulating hormone. Other blood tests were all either normal or slightly abnormal. Lumbar puncture and CSF analysis had a high titer of Anti-TPO antibodies. With high suspicion of Hashimoto encephalopathy, pulsed methyl prednisolone (10 mg) was administered, however the patient showed little improvement. Therefore, plasmaphresis was started, to which the patient showed dramatic response.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/36/08/PMC5149477.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4590838", "abstract": "The knowledge of the spatial distribution feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus infections, which are untreatable, can inform on their risk factors and high-risk areas to enhance control. However, when spatial analysis involves aggregated spatial data, results may be influenced by the spatial scale of aggregation, an effect known as the modifiable areal unit problem (MAUP). In this study, area level risk factors for both infections in 28,914 cats tested with ELISA were investigated by multivariable spatial Poisson regression models along with MAUP effect on spatial clustering and cluster detection (for postal codes, counties, and states) by Moran's I test and spatial scan test, respectively. The study results indicate that the significance and magnitude of the association of risk factors with both infections varied with aggregation scale. Further more, Moran's I test only identified spatial clustering at postal code and county levels of aggregation. Similarly, the spatial scan test indicated that the number, size, and location of clusters varied over aggregation scales. In conclusion, the association between infection and area was influenced by the choice of spatial scale and indicates the importance of study design and data analysis with respect to specific research questions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/96/20/PMC4590838.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3189612", "abstract": "Chagas disease, produced by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), is one of the most frequent endemic diseases in Latin America. In spite the fact that in the past few years T. cruzi congenital transmission has become of epidemiological importance, studies about this mechanism of infection are scarce. In order to explore some morphological aspects of this infection in the placenta, we analyzed placentas from T. cruzi-infected mothers by immunohistochemical and histochemical methods. Infection in mothers, newborns, and placentas was confirmed by PCR and by immunofluorescence in the placenta. T. cruzi-infected placentas present destruction of the syncytiotrophoblast and villous stroma, selective disorganization of the basal lamina, and disorganization of collagen I in villous stroma. Our results suggest that the parasite induces reorganization of this tissue component and in this way may regulate both inflammatory and immune responses in the host. Changes in the ECM of placental tissues, together with the immunological status of mother and fetus, and parasite load may determine the probability of congenital transmission of T. cruzi.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/72/19/PMC3189612.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3955588", "abstract": " Background. The prevalence of Chagas disease in endemic countries varies with the kind of vector involved and the socioeconomic conditions of the population of origin. Due to recent immigration it is an emerging public health problem in Europe, especially in those countries which receive immigrant populations with a high prevalence of carriers. The study reviews the impact of the disease on Bolivian immigrants living in Europe, the preventive measures and regulations applied in European countries, and their repercussion on possible stigmatization of certain population groups. Methods. The Bolivian immigrant population resident in 2012 was estimated and the affected population in different European countries was calculated with data on carrier prevalence that were recently published. The preventive measures and regulations available in Europe were also reviewed. MEDLINE-PubMed, GoPubMed, and Embase were consulted for the literature review. Results. The Bolivian immigrant population has the highest prevalence of Chagas carriers (6.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a6/72/PMC3955588.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3558713", "abstract": "Objective: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in Cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) gene have been detected and proved to associate with the incidence of rejection after transplantation. However, previous studies gained inconsistent results about the association between CTLA-4 +49 single-nucleotide polymorphism and susceptibility of allograft rejection. Therefore we sought to clarify whether CTLA-4 +49 SNP influences the incidence of acute rejection after liver transplantation in Chinese population. Methods: Genomic DNA from 335 liver transplant recipients was genotyped for CTLA-4 +49 SNP by DNA sequencing. Acute rejection was confirmed by pathologic evidences. The association between CTLA-4 +49 SNP and incidence of acute rejection was then analyzed by dominant, recessive, codominant and overdominant models. Results: The incidence of acute rejection within the first 3 months was 11.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ae/51/ijmsv10p0250.PMC3558713.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5059053", "abstract": "Abstract Background: The potential association between endometriosis and physical activity (PA) has been suggested in several epidemiological studies. We aimed to establish whether PA influences endometriosis risk. Methods: MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched using “physical activity” OR “exercise” combined with “endometriosis,” in Medical Subject Headings and free text. We selected original articles in English, published up to April 2016, evaluating the association between endometriosis and recent or past PA (case–control or cohort studies). References of retrieved papers were reviewed. We computed summary odds ratios (ORs) of endometriosis for recent and past PA. Results: Six case–control and 3 cohort studies included 3355 cases for recent PA and 4600 cases for past PA. The summary OR for endometriosis according to PA level, calculated by the random-effect model, was 0.85 [95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/37/medi-95-e4957.PMC5059053.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4653595", "abstract": "This case report illustrates the improvement of an acupuncture-treated patient who incurred a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) from a snowboarding accident. Over 4 years, the patient progressed from initially not being able to walk, having difficulty with speech, and suffering from poor eyesight to where he has now regained significant motor function, speech, and vision and has returned to snowboarding. A core acupuncture protocol plus specific points added to address the patient's ongoing concerns was used. This case adds to the medical literature by demonstrating the potential role of acupuncture in TBI treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/7d/PMC4653595.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3684723", "abstract": "Background The aim was to study the peculiarities of differential diagnosis, prevention and treatment of different forms of rhinitis in Kazakhstan children and adolescents. Methods: 124 children and adolescents aged 1–17 years were randomly enrolled in our hospital based study in 2010 and 2011. Skin prick tests and total serum IgE level were assessed in all allergic patients. Subcutaneous specific immunotherapy was performed in 57 (70.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/20/ijph-42-374.PMC3684723.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2836866", "abstract": "Pathological myopia is a severe hereditary ocular disease leading to blindness. It is urgent and very important to find the pathogenesis and therapy for this disease. The purpose of the study is to analyze sequences of lumican and decorin genes with pathological myopia(PM) and control subjects to verify the relationship between lumican, decorin genes and PM in Northern Han Chinese. We collected and analyzed the blood samples of 94 adults (including 12 pedigree cases and 82 sporadic cases) with PM and 90 controls in the northern Han ethnic Chinese. Genotyping was performed by direct sequencing after polymerase chain reaction(PCR) amplification and allele frequencies were tested for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Univariate analysis revealed significant differences between two groups for three SNPs: rs3759223 (C → T) and rs17853500 (T → C) of the lumican gene and rs74419 (T → C) of decorin gene with (P < .05) for all their genotype distribution and allele frequency. There is no significant difference for incidence of these mutations between pedigree and sporadic group (P > .05). The results suggested that the sequence variants in 5′-regulatory region of lumican gene and 3'UTR of decorin gene were associated significantly with PM in Northern Han Chinese. Further studies are needed to confirm finally whether the two genes are the virulence genes of PM.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8e/e7/PMC2836866.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4770624", "abstract": "During endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) of a pancreatic malignancy, a small quantity of free fluid, not seen before, suddenly appeared in the view, and time was spent ruling out ongoing hemorrhage. However, during follow-up, the patient gradually developed peritoneal signs and was referred for surgery. The images presented elucidate the diagnosis and raise the question of a theoretical change in diagnostic and therapeutic approach.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/fe/EUS-5-55.PMC4770624.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4614582", "abstract": "Shock as an inadequate tissue perfusion is one of the frequent causes of death in trauma patients. In this context, there are various reasons for hemodynamic instability and shock including hypovolemic (hemorrhagic), obstructive (cardiac tamponade, tension pneumothorax), cardiogenic, neurogenic, and rarely septic. In the present report, a 30-year-old trauma patient with full clinical signs and symptoms of shock referred while had unknown origin; it was finally recognized as anaphylactic shock.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/42/1a/emerg-2-101.PMC4614582.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4713776", "abstract": "[Purpose] Forest walking may be effective for human health, but little information is available about effects of energy expenditure on blood pressure responses after forest walking. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the activity energy expenditure and changes in blood pressure in individuals after forest walking. [Subjects] The subjects were 54 middle-aged and elderly people. [Methods] All subjects walked in the forest for approximately 90 min. Blood pressure, salivary amylase, and the Profile of Mood States were evaluated before and after forest walking, and activity energy expenditure was monitored throughout forest walking. Subjects were divided into two groups according to mean arterial pressure changes: a responder group (>5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/e5/jpts-27-3711.PMC4713776.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4296470", "abstract": "Aims:   The purpose of this study was assess the effect of a training session with Nintendo Wii® on the hemodynamic responses of healthy women not involved in regular physical exercise. Method: Twenty-five healthy unfit women aged 28 ± 6 years played for 10 minutes the game Free Run (Wii Fit Plus). The resting heart rate (RHR), systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SBP and DBP), and double (rate-pressure) product (DP) were measured before and after activity. The HR during the activity (exercise heart rate, EHR) was measured every minute.  Results:   A statistically significant difference was observed between the RHR (75 ± 9 bpm) and the mean EHR (176 ± 15 bpm) (P < 0.001). The EHR remained in the target zone for aerobic exercise until the fifth minute of activity, which coincided with the upper limit of the aerobic zone (80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/06/ca/CPEMH-10-172.PMC4296470.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3942985", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Central corneal thickness (CCT) can be a promising source of glaucoma monitoring and diagnosis. This study evaluated changes in CCT according to experimental adjustment of intraocular pressure (IOP) in canine eyes. To adjust and measure IOP, each eye was cannulated with two 26-gauge needles under inhalant anesthesia. One needle was connected to a pressure transducer, and the other was connected to an adjustable bag of physiologic saline. IOP was stepwise increased from 10 mmHg to 70 mmHg in 10 mmHg increments (Group T). IOP was maintained at 15 mmHg (Group C15), 30 mmHg (Group C30), 45 mmHg (Group C45), 60 mmHg (Group C60) and 75 mmHg (Group C75) during the experiment. CCT was measured with an ultrasonic pachymeter every 10 min after cannulation. There was a significant difference in the effect of time on CCT (P<0.001) and difference in CCT (dCCT; P<0.001) between groups. The CCT of group C15 remained constant during the experiment. However, group T showed an initial decrease and then an increase after passing the lowest point. Group C30 showed decreasing values for 30 min, after which the values remained constant. The values in Group C45 showed no changes for 40 min and then increased. The values in group C60 showed no change for 20 min and then increased. Group C75 showed a steady increase. In conclusion, the CCT showed two core changes according to increased IOP. This study provides essential basic data to enable further investigation into the association of IOP and CCT in dogs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ef/0c/jvms-75-1479.PMC3942985.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3485511", "abstract": "Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the main cause of morbidity and mortality in chronic kidney disease patients. There is a raft of evidence showing that in the general population dyslipidaemia is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, as well as with a greater prevalence of chronic kidney disease. Consequently, the use of statins in the general population with dyslipidaemia is not controversial. Nevertheless, the benefits of statins in patients with chronic kidney disease are more elusive. The authors review the possible effects of statins on the progression of renal disease and cardiovascular events in chronic kidney disease patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8c/9c/PMC3485511.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3072505", "abstract": "Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a well-documented syndrome characterized typically by a benign, self-limited course. Patients typically present with postural or exertional headaches that can be temporarily relieved by lying in a supine or recumbent position. A 35-year-old Caucasian male suffered orthostatic headache that developed to a bilateral abducens palsy. We ordered relative rest and the patient improved and completely recovered after 3 months. Although SIH is considered as a benign and self limited process it could also be associated with disabling complications. We should be aware of the possible complications and inform our patients. SIH can present with headache and bilateral abducens palsy even when the headache is improving.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/16/PMC3072505.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4629046", "abstract": " Background. Inflammatory gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) is altered in chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection. Duration of changes after pegylated interferon- (peg-IFN-) based HCV treatment is unclear. Methods. PBMC mRNA expression of 184 inflammatory response genes was analyzed (nCounter GX Human Inflammation Kit, Nanostring) from peg-IFN treatment nonresponders (NR, n = 18), sustained virologic responders (SVR, n = 22), and spontaneous clearers (SC, n = 15). Logistic regression was used for comparison. Results. Median time from last treatment was 2 and 2.7 years in SVR and NR, respectively (p = NS). Mean mRNA counts were significantly different for 42 and 29 genes comparing SVR to SC patients and NR to SC, respectively, and no genes comparing SVR to NR. Differential expression of 24 genes was significantly different in both SVR and NR groups compared to SC. Among these 24 acute and chronic inflammatory cascade genes, significant upregulation was noted for proinflammatory transcription regulators Fos, CEBPB, and MyD88 in SVR and NR compared to SC. HDAC4 was significantly downregulated in SVR and NR compared to the SC group. Conclusions. PBMC inflammatory gene expression patterns in SVR resemble NR more than SC patients. A generalized inflammatory response persists in PBMCs long after successful peg-IFN treatment for HCV infection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6d/a3/PMC4629046.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3655620", "abstract": "Purpose: To investigate the anchoring of plasmid DNA/anti-DNA antibody/cationic lipid tri-complex (DAC micelles) onto bisphosphonate-modified 316 L coronary stents for cardiovascular site-specific gene delivery. Methods: Stents were first modified with polyallylamine bisphosphonate (PAA-BP), thereby enabling the retention of a PAA-BP molecular monolayer that permits the anchoring (via vector-binding molecules) of DAC micelles. DAC micelles were then chemically linked onto the PAA-BP-modified stents by using N-succinimidyl-3-(2-pyridyldithiol)-propionate (SPDP) as a crosslinker. Rhodamine-labeled DNA was used to assess the anchoring of DAC micelles, and radioactive-labeled antibody was used to evaluate binding capacity and stability. DAC micelles (encoding green fluorescent protein) were tethered onto the PAA-BP-modified stents, which were assessed in cell culture. The presence of a PAA-BP molecular monolayer on the steel surface was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and atomic force microscope analysis. Results: The anchoring of DAC micelles was generally uniform and devoid of large-scale patches of defects. Isotopic quantification confirmed that the amount of antibody chemically linked on the stents was 17-fold higher than that of the physical adsorbed control stents and its retention time was also significantly longer. In cell culture, numerous green fluorescent protein-positive cells were found on the PAA-BP modified stents, which demonstrated high localization and efficiency of gene delivery. Conclusion: The DAC micelle-immobilized PAA-BP-modified stents were successful as a gene delivery system. Gene delivery using DAC micelle-tethered stent-based PAA-BP functionalization should be suitable for a wide array of single or multiple therapeutic gene strategies, and could be used on cardiovascular metallic implants for achieving efficient gene therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f2/63/PMC3655620.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5021482", "abstract": "The aim of this study is to compare the effect of various restorative materials on fracture resistance in maxillary premolars. Premolars (n = 64) with no restorations or cracks were selected. MOD cavities were prepared considering the buccolingual width to be equal to half of the intercuspal distance. The specimens were randomly divided into 8 groups, 8 specimens each: group A intact teeth, group B unfilled cavity, group C composite made by oblique layering technique, group D composite with 2 mm cusp coverage, group E bulk-filled posterior composite, group F glass-ionomer, group G amalgam, and group H composite with proximal boxes. The specimens were subjected to an axial compression load with the mean values of fracture resistance in group A: 1289 N, group B: 181.75 N, group C: 445.38 N, group D: 645.88 N, group E: 355.13 N, group F: 352.00 N, group G: 191.38 N, and group H: 572.00 N. There was no significant difference between groups B and G, between C and D, E, and F, and between group D and H. All other measurements were statistically significant. We conclude that composite restoration with cusp coverage is the most ideal nonprosthetic solution for endodontically treated teeth. Cusp coverage increases the fracture resistance compared to the conventional cavity design.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/54/93/PMC5021482.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4877492", "abstract": "Natural uranium (NU), a component of the earth's crust, is not only a heavy metal but also an alpha particle emitter, with chemical and radiological toxicity. Populations may therefore be chronically exposed to NU through drinking water and food. Since the central nervous system is known to be sensitive to pollutants during its development, we assessed the effects on the behaviour and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) metabolome of rats exposed for 9 months from birth to NU via lactation and drinking water (1.5, 10, or 40 mg·L−1 for male rats and 40 mg·L−1 for female rats). Medium-term memory decreased in comparison to controls in male rats exposed to 1.5, 10, or 40 mg·L−1 NU. In male rats, spatial working memory and anxiety- and depressive-like behaviour were only altered by exposure to 40 mg·L−1 NU and any significant effect was observed on locomotor activity. In female rats exposed to NU, only locomotor activity was significantly increased in comparison with controls. LC-MS metabolomics of CSF discriminated the fingerprints of the male and/or female NU-exposed and control groups. This study suggests that exposure to environmental doses of NU from development to adulthood can have an impact on rat brain function. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0a/c9/PMC4877492.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4897212", "abstract": "We give further improvements of the Jensen inequality and its converse on time scales, allowing also negative weights. These results generalize the Jensen inequality and its converse for both discrete and continuous cases. Further, we investigate the exponential and logarithmic convexity of the differences between the left-hand side and the right-hand side of these inequalities and present several families of functions for which these results can be applied.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ed/6f/PMC4897212.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5276767", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study investigated the reliability of the Special Support System. [Subjects and Methods] Eighteen female and 14 male volunteers participated in this study. Participants were asked to sit on the Special Support System with their chins tucked in, spines straight, pelvis neutrally positioned, and their hands placed on their thighs. They were also asked to flex their hips, knees, and ankles to approximately 90 degrees and to put their feet flat on the floor. The total contact area, mean total pressure, as well as mean and peak pressures of each quadrant were each measured 15 times. Test-retest reliability was analyzed for inflated air pressure, and pressure redistribution values by using intraclass correlation coefficients. [Results] The intraclass correlation coefficient was greater than 0.89 for inflated air pressure and greater than 0.92 for total contact area, mean total pressure, and each quadrant’s mean and peak pressure. [Conclusion] The findings suggest that the Special Support System is reliable and can be used as an alternative method for redistributing sitting pressure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/eb/74/jpts-28-3390.PMC5276767.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4244681", "abstract": " Objectives. This study aimed to examine the effect of Ramadan fasting on HbA1c in Muslim patients with type 2 diabetes. The incidence of hypoglycemia and glycemic changes in relation to the adjustment of doses of antidiabetic agents, diet, and physical activity during Ramadan was also evaluated. Methods. This was a prospective study conducted in an outpatient endocrine clinic. A set of questionnaires was administered to Muslim patients with diabetes who fasted for ≥10 days. Those who were hospitalized for diabetic ketoacidosis or severe hypoglycemia a month prior to Ramadan or were given short-term corticosteroid therapy were excluded. The patients' responses and clinical outcomes from the clinic database were collected before, during, and after Ramadan. Results. A total of 153 participants completed the study. The mean HbA1c improved from 8.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a3/44/PMC4244681.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5228087", "abstract": "Extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) is defined as hematopoiesis occurring in organs outside of the bone marrow. The present report describes two cases of thalassemic patients with paraspinal medullary hematopoiesis and analyzes the clinical manifestations, imaging, pathology, diagnosis and treatment of EMH. In addition, a supplementary review of previously published cases is provided along with a review of the related literature. Computed tomography (CT) of the first case revealed multiple paraspinal masses, and the largest was 6.2×8.0 cm in diameter. Likewise, CT of the second patient revealed multiple paraspinal masses in the bottom of the left thoracic cavity, and the largest was measured 10.1×10.5 cm. The two cases underwent surgical biopsy and the findings were compatible with a diagnosis of EMH. In conclusion, EMH is a compatible and rare disease, and should be distinguished from other neoplasms. EMH must considered when masses with characteristic radiologic appearance are detected in patients with thalassemia intermedia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ad/1e/etm-12-06-3859.PMC5228087.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4010640", "abstract": "Purpose To compare the effect of posterior sub-Tenon’s capsule triamcinolone acetonide (STTA) injection to that of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for diabetic macular edema (DME). Patients and methods The medical records of 50 patients (52 eyes) with DME were reviewed. Twenty-six eyes underwent STTA (20 mg) and the other 26 eyes underwent vitrectomy combined with cataract surgery. The central macular thickness (CMT), measured by optical coherence tomography, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were determined before and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. Results The differences in the BCVA and the CMT between the STTA group and the PPV group were not significant before or at any time after the treatment. In both the STTA and PPV groups, there were significant differences between the pre-treatment CMT and BCVA at any time after treatment. Conclusion We recommend STTA injection for the treatment of DME.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/12/d2/opth-8-825.PMC4010640.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4508609", "abstract": "Heart failure is a chronic, progressive disease in which the overexpression of biologically active molecules and neurohomonal activation are the key factors of the evolution and natural history. The apelin-APJ system is a newly discovered molecular pathway and the RAAS counterbalance is its principal effect. The apelin is a potent inotrope, vasodilator and diuretic with crucial cardioprotective effects against angiotensin and aldosterone injuries. Intense and prolonged RAAS induces the downregulation of the apelin and its receptor at myocardial level and cancels their protection. Compared to the vasoactive agents used in the treatment of acute heart failure, exogen apelin has unique intropic and vasodilatory effects without deleterious consequences, being a promising therapeutic option.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/89/c9/cm8801p3.PMC4508609.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3464378", "abstract": "Purpose A pilot study was performed in patients with recurrent back pain after spinal fusion surgery to evaluate the ability of 18F-NaF PET/CT imaging to correctly identify those requiring surgical intervention and to locate a site amenable to surgical intervention. Methods In this prospective study 22 patients with recurrent back pain after spinal surgery and with equivocal findings on physical examination and CT were enrolled for evaluation with 18F-NaF PET/CT. All PET/CT images were prospectively reviewed with the primary objective of identifying or ruling out the presence of lesions amenable to surgical intervention. The PET/CT results were then validated during surgical exploration or clinical follow-up of at least 15 months. Results Abnormal 18F-NaF foci were found in 16 of the 22 patients, and surgical intervention was recommended. These foci were located at various sites: screws, cages, rods, fixation hardware, and bone grafts. In 6 of the 22 patients no foci requiring surgical intervention were found. Validation of the results by surgery (15 patients) or on clinical follow-up (7 patients) showed that 18F-NaF PET/CT correctly predicted the presence of an abnormality requiring surgical intervention in 15 of 16 patients and was falsely positive in 1 of 16. Conclusion In this initial investigation, 18F-NaF PET/CT imaging showed potential utility for evaluation of recurrent symptoms after spinal fusion surgery by identifying those patients requiring surgical management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/20/PMC3464378.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3529582", "abstract": "Herpes simplex virus infections in HIV-infected individuals can be clinically unusual and difficult to treat due to underlying problems with cell-mediated immunity and the occurrence of antiviral resistance. Additionally, partial or incomplete restoration of immune function may result in chronic ulcerations that require rotational treatments. In this report, we describe the case of a 38-year-old HIV-positive woman who developed the ulcerative form of chronic herpes simplex infection despite highly active antiretroviral therapy and valacyclovir prophylaxis. Repeated intravenous courses of foscarnet and topical cidofovir finally controlled her erosions as her cell-mediated immunity was slowly restored. This case highlights the challenges that still exist in diagnosing and managing this rare presentation of herpes simplex virus", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b5/20/cde-0004-0192.PMC3529582.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4889100", "abstract": "Objectives To describe our experience and the practical tools we have developed to facilitate early mobilization in the intensive care unit (ICU) as a multidisciplinary team. Background Despite the evidence supporting early mobilization for improving outcomes for ICU patients, recent international point-prevalence studies reveal that few patients are mobilized in the ICU. Existing guidelines rarely address the practical issues faced by multidisciplinary ICU teams attempting to translate evidence into practice. We present a comprehensive strategy for safe mobilization utilized in our ICU, incorporating the combined skills of medical, nursing, and physiotherapy staff to achieve safe outcomes and establish a culture which prioritizes this intervention. Methods A raft of tools and strategies are described to facilitate mobilization in ICU by the multidisciplinary team. Patients without safe unsupported sitting balance and without ≥3/5 (Oxford scale) strength in the lower limbs commence phase 1 mobilization, including training of sitting balance and use of the tilt table. Phase 2 mobilization involves supported or active weight-bearing, incorporating gait harnesses if necessary. The Plan B mnemonic guides safe multidisciplinary mobilization of invasively ventilated patients and emphasizes the importance of a clearly articulated plan in delivering this valuable treatment as a team. Discussion These tools have been used over the past 5 years in a tertiary ICU with a very low incidence of adverse outcomes (<2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/bf/jmdh-9-247.PMC4889100.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3303533", "abstract": "Objective: Microfibrillar-associated protein 5 (MFAP5) is an extracellular matrix (ECM) glycoprotein, which is colocalized with microfibrils in elastin networks. Its function in adipose tissue (AT) is not known. We have recently shown that the expression of MFAP5 is downregulated in AT along with weight reduction (WR) in persons with metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of this work was to study whether the change of MFAP5 mRNA expression in response to WR is associated with markers of adiposity, glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in human AT. Design: Weight reduction intervention study in parallel study design (The Genobin study). Altogether 46 obese subjects with impaired glucose tolerance and features of MetS were randomized to a WR (n=28) or a control group (n=18) lasting for 33 weeks. Measurements: Circulating glucose and insulin concentrations were measured and subcutaneous AT biopsies were performed before and after the intervention. The mRNA expression was studied by quantitative real-time PCR (QPCR). Results: QPCR of human AT biopsy samples confirmed that MFAP5 is highly expressed in AT and its expression is decreased during WR. The mRNA expression of MFAP5 correlated positively with body mass index, and the change in MFAP5 mRNA expression during WR correlated positively with the change of body fat mass. Furthermore, the MFAP5 mRNA expression correlated negatively with circulating fasting concentrations of adiponectin and interleukin (IL)-1β and positively with leptin, insulin and IL-1Ra levels. In addition, the MFAP5 mRNA expression correlated positively with the mRNA expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, cyclin D2 and A disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain 12, genes involved in AT remodeling. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that MFAP5 is highly expressed in human AT and is correlated with markers of insulin resistance. Furthermore, it is possible that MFAP5 is related to ECM remodeling during development of obesity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/dd/nutd201110a.PMC3303533.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3262364", "abstract": "Introduction Hospital patients recovering from critical illness on general floors often receive insulin therapy based on protocols designed for patients admitted directly to general floors. The objective of this study is to compare glycemic control and insulin dosing in patients recovering from critical illness and those without prior critical illness. Methods Medical record review of blood glucose measurements and insulin dosing in 25 patients under general ward care while transitioning from the intensive care unit (transition group) and 25 patients admitted directly to the floor (direct floor group). Results Average blood glucose did not differ significantly between groups (transition group 9.49 mmol/L, direct floor group 9.6 mmol/L; P = 0.83). Significant differences in insulin requirements were observed between groups with average daily doses of 55.9 units in patients transitioning from the intensive care unit (ICU) versus 25.6 units in the direct floor group (P = 0.004). Conclusions Patients recovering from critical illness required significantly larger doses of insulin than those patients admitted directly to the floor. Managing insulin therapy in patients transitioning from the ICU may require greater insulin doses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/be/00/PMC3262364.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4026973", "abstract": "Cushing's syndrome (CS) may alter the performance of the hypothalamic-hypophyseal-thyroid axis. We searched for a relationship between hypercortisolism and primary thyroid disorders. The medical records of 40 patients with CS were retrospectively examined. Thyroid ultrasonography (USG), basal thyroid function test results (TFT), and antithyroglobulin and antithyroperoxidase antibodies were analyzed. In 80 control subjects, matched by age and gender with CS patients, thyroid USG, TFTs, and autoantibody panel were obtained. Among the CS patients, 17 had nodular goiter, versus 24 controls (42.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/14/76/PMC4026973.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3195785", "abstract": "Biomarkers of axonal degeneration have the potential to improve our capacity to predict and monitor neurological outcome in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Neurofilament proteins, one of the major proteins expressed within neurons and axons, have been detected in cerebrospinal fluid and blood samples from MS patients and are now being actively investigated for their utility as prognostic indicators of disease progression in MS. In this paper, we summarize the current literature on neurofilament structure, assembly, and degeneration and discuss their potential utility as biomarkers for monitoring neurological decline in MS. We also discuss the need to further develop sensitive methods for assaying neurofilaments in blood to improve clinical applicability.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d1/ab/PMC3195785.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4495019", "abstract": "Abstract [2 + 3] Cycloaddition reactions of nitroacetylene with allenyl-type three-atom components take place according to the polar, but a one-step mechanism. Alternatively to cycloadducts, during the reaction between the aforementioned reagents, zwitterionic structures with “extended” conformation may be formally created. However, this route is supported by neither kinetic nor thermodynamic factors. Graphical Abstract", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6e/c7/PMC4495019.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4774937", "abstract": "Background The effect of ranolazine (RAN) on cardiac autonomic balance in congestive heart failure (CHF) was studied. Methods Fifty-four CHF patients were randomized to (1) open-label RAN (RANCHF) added to usual therapy vs. (2) usual therapy (NORANCHF). Parasympathetic and sympathetic (P   S) measurements were taken at baseline and at 12 months. Results A total of 16/27 (59", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/33/HI-9-2-59.PMC4774937.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4604284", "abstract": "Bezoars are retained masses of ingested materials accumulating within the gastrointestinal track. While gastric bezoars are often observed, duodenal bezoars are rarely reported. A 77-year-old man who had frequently consumed persimmons and had never undergone gastric surgery had symptoms of epigastric pain and early satiety for 10 days. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed many diospyrobezoars in a severely distended duodenal bulb, otherwise known as megaduodenum. The patient's treatment consisted of repeated endoscopic removal of the bezoars by using a retrieval net.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b4/2e/ce-48-436.PMC4604284.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4033393", "abstract": "COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a common lung disease characterized by airflow limitation and systemic inflammation. Recently, adipose tissue mediated inflammation has gathered increasing interest in the pathogenesis of the disease. In this study, we investigated the role of novel adipocytokines nesfatin-1 and visfatin in COPD by measuring if they are associated with the inflammatory activity, lung function, or symptoms. Plasma levels of NUCB2/nesfatin-1 and visfatin were measured together with IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and MMP-9, lung function, exhaled nitric oxide, and symptoms in 43 male patients with emphysematous COPD. The measurements were repeated in a subgroup of the patients after four weeks' treatment with inhaled fluticasone. Both visfatin and NUCB2/nesfatin-1 correlated positively with plasma levels of IL-6 (r = 0.341, P = 0.027 and rho = 0.401, P = 0.008, resp.) and TNF-α (r = 0.305, P = 0.052 and rho = 0.329, P = 0.033, resp.) and NUCB2/nesfatin-1 also with IL-8 (rho = 0.321, P = 0.036) in patients with COPD. Further, the plasma levels of visfatin correlated negatively with pulmonary diffusing capacity (r = −0.369, P = 0.016). Neither of the adipokines was affected by fluticasone treatment and they were not related to steroid-responsiveness. The present results introduce adipocytokines NUCB2/nesfatin-1 and visfatin as novel factors associated with systemic inflammation in COPD and suggest that visfatin may mediate impaired pulmonary diffusing capacity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/a8/PMC4033393.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3092112", "abstract": "Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) from a ruptured intracranial aneurysm is a devastating subset of stroke, occurring in relatively young people (mean age around 50 years) of whom around a third die within the initial weeks after the bleed. Environmental and genetic risk factors both have a role in SAH. A recent genome-wide association study of intracranial aneurysms in Finnish, Dutch and Japanese cohorts totaling 5,891 cases and 14,181 controls identified three new loci strongly associated with intracranial aneurysms on chromosomes 18q11.2 and 10q24.32, and replicated two previously found loci on chromosomes 8q11.23-q12.1 and 9p21.3. However, these five intracranial aneurysm risk loci identified so far explain only up to 5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/10/ce/PMC3092112.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4795246", "abstract": "Background: Intraperitoneal lymphangioma (IL) used to be thought of as a benign lymphatic malformation with a low rate of preoperative diagnosis. This retrospective study aimed to explore the connection between the cysts and clinical manifestation and imaging characteristics, and to study diagnostic confusion, therapeutic principles and potential recurrent reasons, to further enhance the comprehension of this rare disease. Methods: Here, we retrospectively reviewed 21 patients diagnosed with IL. Age, sex, complaints, physical findings, and imaging features of each patient were documented. The therapies, postoperative complications and treatments were discussed. Results: Symptomatology included eight patients (38", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/15/b7/CMJ-128-3043.PMC4795246.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5182259", "abstract": "Background: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to transform our world, and each goal has specific targets to be achieved by 2030. For the goals to be achieved, everyone needs to do their part: governments, academia, the private sector and all people. This paper summarizes the main evidence-based recommendations made by excellent academics and scholars who discussed their experiences and views during the conference to respond to the challenges of sustainable health development. Methods: To contribute to exploring to the academia’s role in reaching SDGs, the 1st International Conference on Sustainable Health Development was held at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, on 24–25 April 2016, in Tehran, Iran. Results: In line with Goal 3 of SDGs: “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages”, the conference discussed various aspects of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), as well as Global Action Plans for prevention and control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), and explained the special role of academic public health institutes in education, research and service provision in the two above-mentioned areas. Conclusion: To fulfill the requirements of SDGs, modern approaches to funding, education, teaching, research priority setting and advocacy, which in turn need novel strategies in collaboration and constructive partnerships among academic public health institutes from low, middle and high-income countries, are essential.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dc/2d/PMC5182259.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4280466", "abstract": "Spontaneous esophageal perforation is relatively uncommon, but carries a high mortality rate if diagnosis or treatment is delayed. We report the case of a 68-year-old man with spontaneous esophageal perforation who was successfully treated over 96 h after onset by thoracic drainage and jejunostomy for enteral nutrition. He vomited after drinking alcohol, soon followed by epigastralgia. Heart failure was suspected on admission to another hospital. Spontaneous esophageal perforation was diagnosed 48 h after admission. Chest tube drainage was performed, but his general condition deteriorated and he was transferred to our hospital. Emergent surgery was performed and esophageal perforation combined with pyothorax and mediastinitis was identified on the left side of the lower esophagus. The left thoracic cavity was rinsed and thoracic drainage was performed. Feeding jejunostomy was performed for postoperative enteral nutrition. Effective drainage and sufficient nutrition management appear extremely valuable in treating spontaneous esophageal perforation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/2f/crg-0008-0387.PMC4280466.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4565811", "abstract": "The plasmid is a very well-known mobile genetic element that participates in the acquisition of virulence genes, such as staphylococcal enterotoxins (SEs), via horizontal transfer. SEs are emetic toxins and causative agents in staphylococcal food poisoning (SFP). We herein identified the types of plasmids harbored by seven SFP isolates and examined their production of plasmid-related SE/SEl to determine whether the new types of plasmid-related SE or SE-like (SEl) toxins (i.e. SElJ and SER) were involved in SFP. These isolates harbored pIB485-like plasmids, and all, except for one isolate, produced SElJ and SER. The amount of SER produced by each isolate accounted for the highest or second highest percentage of the total amount of SE/SEl produced. These new types of plasmid-related SE/SEls as well as classical SE may play a role in SFP. The seven isolates were classified into two SED-production types; a high SED-production type (>500 ng/ml) and no SED-production type. A nucleotide sequencing analysis revealed that three plasmids harbored by the SED-non-producing isolates had a single-base deletion in the sed gene with a resulting stop codon (from 233 amino acids of the intact SED to 154 amino acids of the mutant SED (mSED)). A real-time reverse transcription-PCR analysis showed that the mRNA of the msed gene was transcribed in the isolates. If the msed gene was translated as a protein, mSED may act as an emetic toxin instead of intact SED.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/15/64/jvms-77-905.PMC4565811.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3132615", "abstract": "Recently, it has become clear that atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which inflammation and immune responses play a key role. Accelerated atherosclerosis has been reported in patients with autoimmune diseases, suggesting an involvement of autoimmune mechanisms in atherogenesis. Different self-antigens or modified self-molecules have been identified as target of humoral and cellular immune responses in patients with atherosclerotic disease. Oxidative stress, increasingly reported in these patients, is the major event causing structural modification of proteins with consequent appearance of neoepitopes. Self-molecules modified by oxidative events can become targets of autoimmune reactions, thus sustaining the inflammatory mechanisms involved in endothelial dysfunction and plaque development. In this paper, we will summarize the best characterized autoantigens in atherosclerosis and their possible role in cardiovascular inflammation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/18/4a/PMC3132615.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4240559", "abstract": "The canal of Nuck is analogous to a patent processus vaginalis in a male, which normally loses its communication to the peritoneal cavity within the first year of life. Failure of obliteration of this tract can result in a hydrocele. We present a rare case of a 2-year-old girl with left-sided groin swelling, diagnosed as inguinal hernia. Patient underwent surgical exploration and establishes definitive diagnosis as cyst of the canal of Nuck.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/a6/MA-68-289.PMC4240559.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3970619", "abstract": " Triatoma dimidiata is the most important Chagas disease insect vector in Central America as this species is primarily responsible for Trypanosoma cruzi transmission to humans, the protozoan parasite that causes Chagas disease. T. dimidiata sensu lato is a genetically diverse assemblage of taxa and effective vector control requires a clear understanding of the geographic distribution and epidemiological importance of its taxa. The nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS-2) is frequently used to infer the systematics of triatomines. However, oftentimes amplification and sequencing of ITS-2 fails, likely due to both the large polymerase chain reaction (PCR) product and polymerase slippage near the 5' end. To overcome these challenges we have designed new primers that amplify only the 3'-most 200 base pairs of ITS-2. This region distinguishes the ITS-2 group for 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/8c/0074-0276-mioc-108-04-395.PMC3970619.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3516464", "abstract": "Perceptual learning is defined as long-term improvement in perceptual abilities as a result of perceptual experiences. It is controversial as to whether perceptual learning is associated with changes in a sensory region of the brain or not. Here, we review research that supports, or otherwise, the sensory change hypothesis and discuss what needs to be done in the future to answer this question more definitively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/3c/biolrep-04-24.PMC3516464.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4333561", "abstract": "Autism is a disorder of neurobiological origin characterized by problems in communication and social skills and repetitive behavior. After more than six decades of research, the etiology of autism remains unknown, and no biomarkers have been proven to be characteristic of autism. A number of studies have shown that the cytokine levels in the blood, brain, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of autistic subjects differ from that of healthy individuals; for example, a series of studies suggests that interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) are significantly elevated in different tissues in autistic subjects. However, the expression of some cytokines, such as IL-1, IL-2, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), is controversial, and different studies have found various results in different tissues. In this review, we focused on several types of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines that might affect different cell signal pathways and play a role in the pathophysiological mechanism of autistic spectrum disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0d/d6/PMC4333561.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3037991", "abstract": "A 69-year-old female visited our department with a diagnosis of rectosigmoid cancer and multiple hepatic metastases (stage IV). Abdominal CT revealed multiple metastatic lesions in the bilateral lobes of the liver. The primary lesion was considered to be resectable, and high anterior resection of the rectum was performed. After the operation, 6 courses of therapy with bevacizumab (BV) and modified FOLFOX6 were performed. CT showed a partial response, and tumor marker levels became normal. After a total of 11 courses of this therapy, grade 3 peripheral neuropathy developed, and the therapy was changed to BV and capecitabine (Cape). After 6 courses of this therapy, CT showed the maintenance of partial response, and tumor marker levels were also within the normal range. BV and Cape therapy may be useful not only for reducing peripheral neuropathy, but also as a maintenance therapy in patients requiring the suspension of oxaliplatin administration due to peripheral neuropathy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/02/62/crg0005-0028.PMC3037991.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3570574", "abstract": "Objective Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common psychiatric disorders which affects married couples frequently.The present study aims to explain the role of family processes, social support and demographic factors in marital satisfaction of women with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Method In this cross-sectional study, 188 women with MDD were randomly selected among the patients who visited Bozorgmehr Clinic of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. The sample selection was carried out through structured psychiatric interviews based on DSM-TV-TR criteria. Data were collected using Index of Marital Satisfaction (IMS), Family Process Scale (FPS) and Norbeck Social Support Questionnaire (NSSQ).The Mann Whitney U, Multivariate and ANOVA tests were used to analyze the data. Results No relationship was observed between age, educational level, age difference of couples and number of children with family processes and marital satisfaction (p ≥ 0.05). The patients with low educational level reported less social support (p ≥ 0.05).Marital satisfaction and family coherence were lower when the husband had a psychiatric disorder (P ≤ 0.01). The family processes (family coherence, problem-solving skills, communication skills and religious beliefs) and social support positively predicted marital satisfaction, while the husband's psychiatric disorders negatively predicted marital satisfaction. Conclusion The findings highlight the significance of family processes, social support and husband's psychiatric disorders in marital satisfaction of women with MDD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/69/9b/IJPS-7-164.PMC3570574.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4823418", "abstract": "We report a healthy patient with postpartum headache and neck stiffness which were diagnosed as symptoms of pseudoaneurysm of vertebral artery. She had received a Cesarean section under the spinal anesthesia, and complaint of headache and neck stiffness. Epidural blood patches were done twice, but symptoms persisted. Eight days later, she experienced sensory disturbance and emergent laminectomy was done. When persistent postpartum headache occurs after epidural blood patch, more precise differential diagnosis should be made and considering other possible pathologies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/0b/kjae-69-189.PMC4823418.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3901967", "abstract": " Objective. To examine measurement of body composition by ultrasound compared with a reference technique:dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). We evaluated the accuracy of a portable ultrasound-based device in estimating total body fat mass with those assessed by DXA in adult. Methods. Body fat mass has been estimated using a portable ultrasound-based device in comparison with a contemporary reference DXA apparatus: the Hologic Discovery A. Anthropometric data has been assessed in order to maximize the output of the software associated with the ultrasound-based device. A cross-validation between ultrasound technique (US) and DXA was developed in this study. Total body fat mass estimated by ultrasound was compared with this DXA model in a sample of 83 women and 41 men. Results. Ultrasound technique (US) of body fat (BF) was better correlated with DXA in both women (r 2 = 0.97, P < 0.01) and men (r 2 = 0.92, P < 0.01) with standard errors of estimates (SEE) being 2.1 kg and 2.2 kg, respectively. Conclusion. The use of a portable device based on a US produced a very accurate BF estimate in relation to DXA reference technique. As DXA absorptiometry techniques are not interchangeable, the use of our ultrasound-based device needs to be recalibrated on a more contemporary DXA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/a9/PMC3901967.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4280756", "abstract": "Stapes fractures without other ossicle problems are rare and ossicle problems due to explosion pressure are also rare. We describe a very rare case of stapes anterior crural fracture resulting from a land mine explosion. As this case suggests, a close examination of the ossicles is necessary during an exploration tympanotomy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/7a/kja-18-137.PMC4280756.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4348501", "abstract": "Objective Few studies have evaluated re-irradiation of lung cancer recurrences with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). This study evaluates outcomes with SBRT re-irradiation for recurrent lung cancer. Methods Two hundred and seventy-eight patients treated with SBRT for lung cancer were retrospectively reviewed. Of those, 26 patients with 29 tumors were re-irradiated with SBRT. Ninety percent of tumors received prior external beam irradiation and 10 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/27/16/PMC4348501.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4194949", "abstract": "This study used national Medicaid data from 1994-2003 to investigate trends in noninstitutional drug utilization and expenditures in the Medicaid Program. We found that there was a substantial increase in both drug utilization and expenditures during this timeframe. Increased utilization resulted from increases in Medicaid enrollment, the mean number of prescriptions per enrollee, mean nominal and inflation-adjusted reimbursement per prescription, and the tendency for increased use of more expensive drugs. The top 40 drugs accounted for nearly 14.4 billion, roughly 43 percent of the total drug reimbursements for calendar year (CY) 2003.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/35/d1/PMC4194949.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3371597", "abstract": "Molecular imaging in neuroscience is a new research field that enables visualization of the impact of molecular events on brain structure and function in humans. While magnetic resonance-based imaging techniques can provide complex information at the level of system, positron emission tomography (PET) enables determination of the distribution and density of receptor and enzyme in the human brain. Previous studies using [11C]raclopride and [11C]FLB457 revealed that the release of neuronal dopamine was increased in human brain by psychostimulants or reward stimuli. Following on from these previous [11C]raclopride studies, we examined whether the levels of neuronal release of histamine might change [11C]doxepin binding to the H1 receptors under the influence of physiological stimuli. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the test–retest reliability of quantitative measurement of [11C]doxepin binding between morning and afternoon and between resting and attentive waking conditions in healthy human subjects. There was a trend for a decrease in [11C]doxepin binding during attentive calculation tasks compared with that in resting conditions, but the difference (less than 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/d1/fnsys-06-00045.PMC3371597.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3075161", "abstract": "Introduction Blunt abdominal trauma is a rare but well-recognized cause of pancreatic transection. A delayed presentation of pancreatic fracture following sport-related blunt trauma with the coexisting diagnostic pitfalls is presented. Case Report A 17-year-old rugby player was referred to our specialist unit after having been diagnosed with traumatic pancreatic transection, having presented 24 h after a sporting injury. Despite haemodynamic stability, at laparotomy he was found to have a diffuse mesenteric hematoma involving the large and small bowel mesentery, extending down to the sigmoid colon from the splenic flexure, and a large retroperitoneal hematoma arising from the pancreas. The pancreas was completely severed with the superior border of the distal segment remaining attached to the splenic vein that was intact. A distal pancreatectomy with spleen preservation and evacuation of the retroperitoneal hematoma was performed. Discussion/Conclusion Blunt pancreatic trauma is a serious condition. Diagnosis and treatment may often be delayed, which in turn may drastically increase morbidity and mortality. Diagnostic difficulties apply to both paraclinical and radiological diagnostic methods. A high index of suspicion should be maintained in such cases, with a multi-modality diagnostic approach and prompt surgical intervention as required.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/15/crg0002-0022.PMC3075161.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3502738", "abstract": "Purpose Several recent studies have reported the benefits of tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL). Postoperatively, tubeless PNL patients have an indwelling ureteral stent placed, which is often associated with stent-related morbidity. We have performed totally tubeless (tubeless and stentless) PNL in which no nephrostomy tube or ureteral stent is placed postoperatively. We evaluated the safety, effectiveness, and feasibility of totally tubeless PNL. Materials and Methods From March 2008 to February 2012, 57 selected patients underwent standard or totally tubeless PNL. Neither a nephrostomy tube nor a ureteral stent was placed in the totally tubeless PNL group. We compared patient and stone characteristics, operation time, length of hospitalization, analgesia requirements, stone-free rate, blood loss, change in creatinine, and perioperative complications between the standard and totally tubeless PNL groups. Results There were no significant differences in preoperative patient characteristics, postoperative complications, or the stone-free rate between the two groups, but the totally tubeless PNL group showed a shorter hospitalization and a lesser analgesic requirement compared with the standard PNL group. Blood loss and change in creatinine were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusions Totally tubeless PNL appears to be a safe and effective alternative for the management of renal stone patients and is associated with a decrease in length of hospital stay.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/14/63/kju-53-785.PMC3502738.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3440506", "abstract": "Various surgical procedures for the treatment of post-traumatic syringomyelia have been introduced recently, but most surgical strategies have been unreliable. We introduce the concept and technique of a new shunting procedure, syringo-subarachnoid-peritoneal shunt. A 54-year-old patient presented to our hospital with a progressive impairment of motion and position sense on the right side. Sixteen years before this admission, he had been treated by decompressive laminectomy for a burst fracture of L1. On his recent admission, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging studies of the whole spine revealed the presence of a huge syrinx extending from the medulla to the L1 vertebral level. We performed a syringo-subarachnoid-peritoneal shunt, including insertion of a T-tube into the syrinx, subarachnoid space and peritoneal cavity. Clinical manifestations and radiological findings improved after the operation. The syringo-subarachnoid-peritoneal shunt has several advantages. First, fluid can communicate freely between the syrinx, the subarachnoid space, and the peritoneal cavity. Secondly, we can prevent shunt catheter from migrating because dural anchoring of the T-tube is easy. Finally, we can perform shunt revision easily, because only one arm of the T-tube is inserted into the intraspinal syringx cavity. We think that this procedure is the most beneficial method among the various shunting procedures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/34/jkns-52-58.PMC3440506.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3974479", "abstract": "Introduction Laparoscopic pyeloplasty was first described by Schuessler. During the last decade, this technique has been developed in order to achieve the same results as open surgery, with lower rates of morbidity and complications. In this study we review our experience using laparoscopic pyeloplasty as the gold standard for the treatment of the ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). Material and methods We performed a retrospective review of 62 laparoscopic pyeloplasties carried out at our center. In the last 2 years we used 3 mm and 5 mm ports in order to achieve better cosmetics results. Demographic data is described and the functionality of the affected kidney and surgical data, among others were analyzed statistically. In the case of bilateral statistical tests were considered significant as those with p values <0.05. Results The most frequent reason for consultation was ureteral pain. Patients mean age was 40 years and 94", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/98/CEJU-66-00295.PMC3974479.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4327203", "abstract": "A group of destructive changes occurring in jaws in patients with maxillary complete dentures and mandibular removable partial dentures (bilaterally) has been described in the literature as the combination syndrome. However, this condition is not clinically observed in all patients. The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence index on signs of combination syndrome and to verify whether these changes also occurred in patients rehabilitated with a mandibular removable partial denture (unilaterally). Sample was composed of 44 patients, completely edentulous in the maxilla. Thirty-two patients had a Kennedy Class I removable partial denture and 12 a Kennedy Class II. Three major alterations were observed in 20.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/35/26/1678-7757-jaos-15-01-0009.PMC4327203.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4770135", "abstract": " Aims. To estimate the prevalence of blindness in the Republic of Ireland and the associated financial and total economic cost between 2010 and 2020. Methods. Estimates for the prevalence of blindness in the Republic of Ireland were based on blindness registration data from the National Council for the Blind of Ireland. Estimates for the financial and total economic cost of blindness were based on the sum of direct and indirect healthcare and nonhealthcare costs. Results. We estimate that there were 12,995 blind individuals in Ireland in 2010 and in 2020 there will be 17,997. We estimate that the financial and total economic costs of blindness in the Republic of Ireland in 2010 were €276.6 million and €809 million, respectively, and will increase in 2020 to €367 million and €1.1 billion, respectively. Conclusions. Here, ninety-eight percent of the cost of blindness is borne by the Departments of Social Protection and Finance and not by the Department of Health as might initially be expected. Cost of illness studies should play a role in public policy making as they help to quantify the indirect or “hidden” costs of disability and so help to reveal the true cost of illness.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f1/46/PMC4770135.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5367583", "abstract": "In the last 10 years, value has played a key role in the health care system. In this concept, innovations in medical practice and the increasing importance of patient centeredness have contributed to draw the attention of the medical community. Nonetheless, a large consensus on the meaning of “value” is still lacking: patients, physicians, policy makers, and other health care professionals have different ideas on which component of value may play a prominent role. Yet, shared clinical decision-making and patient empowerment have been recognized as fundamental features of the concept of value. Different paradigms of health care system embrace different meanings of value, and the absence of common and widely accepted definition does not help to identify a unique model of care in health care system. Our aim is to provide an overview of those paradigms that have considered value as a key theoretical concept and to investigate how the presence of value can influence the medical practice. This article may contribute to draw attention toward patients and propose a possible link between health care system based on “value” and new paradigms such as patient-centered system (PCS), patient empowerment, and P5 medicine, in order to create a predictive, personalized, preventive, participatory, and psycho-cognitive model to treat patients. Indeed, patient empowerment, value-based system, and P5 medicine seem to shed light on different aspects of a PCS, and this allows a better understanding of people under care.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5d/cf/jmdh-10-101.PMC5367583.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3284275", "abstract": "Complicated soft tissue defects of the diabetic foot often call for alternative methods to traditional primary closure. Despite the popularity of microvascular free flaps, local muscle flaps can offer reliable reconstruction for these challenging wounds with shorter surgical times and reduced complication rates. In this article, the authors describe the successful use of the abductor hallucis muscle flap and external fixation for soft tissue reconstruction of a chronic Charcot foot wound and osteomyelitis in a diabetic patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/ea/DFA-2-6336.PMC3284275.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3901617", "abstract": "We report a rare case of metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to the small bowel that presented as a pedunculated epithelial polyp. A 60-year-old man with liver cirrhosis type B was treated for HCC (stage IVb) at our hospital. He had been admitted for melena and anemia. Capsule endoscopy was performed in this patient with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. It showed a polypoid lesion with bleeding in the ileum. Double-balloon endoscopy was performed. The lesion was determined to be a pedunculated polyp in the ileum. Histological examination of biopsy specimens showed tumor cells resembling HCC. We performed endoscopic mucosal resection for the lesion by double-balloon endoscopy to prevent bleeding from the tumor. The patient had no melena or anemia and his condition improved after endoscopic mucosal resection. However, he died of liver failure 2 months later.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c0/92/crg-0007-0492.PMC3901617.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5094615", "abstract": "Aim The Danish National Chronic Myeloid Neoplasia Registry (DCMR) is a population-based clinical quality database, introduced to evaluate diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic myeloid malignancies. The aim is to monitor the clinical quality at the national, regional, and hospital departmental levels and serve as a platform for research. Study population The DCMR has nationwide coverage and contains information on patients diagnosed at hematology departments from January 2010 onward, including patients with essential thrombocythemia, polycythemia vera, myelofibrosis, unclassifiable myeloproliferative neoplasms, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, and chronic myeloid leukemia. Main variables Data are collected using standardized registration forms (so far up to four forms per patient), which are consecutively filled out online at time of diagnosis, after 2-year and 5-year follow-ups, and at end of follow-up. The forms include variables that describe clinical/paraclinical assessments, treatment, disease progression, and survival – disease-specific variables – as well as variables that are identical for all chronic myeloid malignancies. Descriptive data By the end of 2014, the DCMR contained data on 2,690 patients with an inclusion rate of ∼500 patients each year. Since the registry was established, annual reports have shown consistently high national coverage and data completeness, ≥90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/97/73/clep-8-567.PMC5094615.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1693773", "abstract": "Morphology as demonstrated by CT is the basis for radiotherapy planning. Intensity-modulated and adaptive radiotherapy techniques would greatly benefit from additional functional information allowing for definition of the biological target volume. MRI techniques include several which can characterize and quantify different tissue properties and their tumour-related changes. Results of perfusion MRI represent microvascular density and permeability; MR spectroscopy depicts particular metabolites; diffusion weighted imaging shows tissue at risk and tumour cellularity; while dynamic 3D acquisition (4D MRI) shows organ motion and the mobility of tumours within them. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/00/3a/PMC1693773.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5127209", "abstract": "Background The management of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) with respect to physician practices remains largely unexplored despite increasing efforts to standardize care. In the present study, we report findings from a 2-month audit of all patients that have undergone cardiac surgery at a large referral center in Atlantic Canada. Methods All patients who underwent cardiac surgical procedures during May and June 2013 at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Center in Halifax, Nova Scotia were identified. The prevalence of urinary tract infections (UTIs), pneumonia, leg harvest site infections, superficial sternal wound infections, deep sternal wound infections, and sepsis was examined to determine physician approaches in terms of verification rates (microbiology), time of diagnosis and duration of treatment. Continuous variables were compared using Student’s t-test and categorical variables were analyzed using Fischer’s exact test. Results A total of 185 consecutive patients underwent cardiac surgical procedures, of which 39 (21", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/a4/jocmr-09-010.PMC5127209.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3060394", "abstract": "We report a case of surgical treatment for Hallermann-Streiff syndrome in a patient with ocular manifestations of esotropia, entropion, and blepharoptosis. A 54-year-old man visited Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital complaining of ocular discomfort due to cilia touching the corneas of both eyes for several years. He had a bird-like face, pinched nose, hypotrichosis of the scalp, mandibular hypoplasia with forward displacement of the temporomandibular joints, a small mouth, and proportional short stature. His ophthalmic features included sparse eyelashes and eyebrows, microphthalmia, nystagmus, lower lid entropion in the right eye, and upper lid entropion with blepharoptosis in both eyes. There was esodeviation of the eyeball of more than 100 prism diopters at near and distance, and there were limitations in ocular movement on lateral gaze. The capsulopalpebral fascia was repaired to treat the right lower lid entropion, but an additional Quickert suture was required to prevent recurrence. Blepharoplasty and levator palpebrae repair were performed for blepharoptosis and dermatochalasis. Three months after lid surgery, the right medial rectus muscle was recessed 7.5 mm, the left medial rectus was recessed 7.25 mm, and the left lateral rectus muscle was resected 8.0 mm.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c1/59/kjo-25-142.PMC3060394.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC138871", "abstract": "The genetic and molecular analysis of circadian timekeeping mechanisms has accelerated as a result of the increasing volume of genomic markers and nucleotide sequence information. Completion of whole genome sequences and the use of differential gene expression technology will hasten the discovery of the clock output pathways that control diverse rhythmic phenomena.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9c/ed/PMC138871.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3684472", "abstract": "Objective The aim of this study was to examine the differences in the health related quality of life and the self care and social function in daily life of children with different disabilities. Methods One hundred and two children with physical, emotional and cognitive disabilities (cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and hearing loss) and 28 children age matched as a control group were included in this study for the comparison. The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) was used to evaluate the independence and participation of children in daily life activities. The Turkish version of the Child Health Questionnaire-Parent form (CHQ - PF50) was used to evaluate the health related quality of life. Findings All 3 groups were different from the control group in terms of self-care and the social domains according to the PEDI results (P<0.05). Children with cerebral palsy (CP) were more dependent in the areas of self-care and mobility activities (P<0.05). The main difference was found in global general health (GGH), physical functioning (PF), the emotional impact on the parent (PE) subsections of the CHQ-PF50 between the CP and the hearing loss groups; the role of the physical (RP) and emotional behavior (BE) subsections between the mental retardation (MR) and the CP groups, and the BE and mental health (MH) subsections between the MR and the hearing loss (HL) groups (P<0.05). Conclusion All the children with disabilities were different from the control group in their quality of life, self care and social function. However the status of the children with MR and HL were parallel between each other in their health related quality of life, self care and social function. On the other hand, the most affected and dependent group was children with CP. The results will provide guidelines for healthcare professionals in implementing effective rehabilitation programs, especially to those with cerebral palsy, to reduce the level of strain and increase the health related quality of life, self care and social function of children with different disabilities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b6/49/IJPD-23-281.PMC3684472.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3392758", "abstract": "Perhaps as much as two-thirds of the mammalian genome is composed of mobile genetic elements ('jumping genes'), a fraction of which is still active or can be reactivated. By their sheer number and mobility, retrotransposons, DNA transposons and endogenous retroviruses have shaped our genotype and phenotype both on an evolutionary scale and on an individual level. Notably, at least the non-long terminal repeat retrotransposons are still able to cause disease by insertional mutagenesis, recombination, providing enzymatic activities for other mobile DNA, and perhaps by transcriptional overactivation and epigenetic effects. Currently, there are nearly 100 examples of known retroelement insertions that cause disease. In this review, we highlight those genome-scale technologies that have expanded our knowledge of the diseases that these mobile elements can elicit, and we discuss the potential impact of these findings for medicine. It is now likely that at least some types of cancer and neurological disorders arise as a result of retrotransposon mutagenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ae/76/PMC3392758.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3810322", "abstract": "There is a general consensus that Crohn's disease (CD) develops as the result of immune-mediated tissue damage triggered by infections with intestinal microbial agents. Based on the results of existing microbiological, molecular, and immunological studies, Klebsiella microbe seems to have a key role in the initiation and perpetuation of the pathological damage involving the gut and joint tissues in patients with CD. Six different gastroenterology centres in the UK have reported elevated levels of antibodies to Klebsiella in CD patients. There is a relationship between high intake of starch-containing diet, enhanced growth of gut microbes, and the production of pullulanases by Klebsiella. It is proposed that eradication of these microbes by the use of antibiotics and low starch diet, in addition to the currently used treatment, could help in alleviating or halting the disease process in CD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bf/2b/PMC3810322.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3279958", "abstract": "An important aspect of ecological safety of genetically modified (GM) plants is the evaluation of unintended effects on plant–insect interactions. These interactions are to a large extent influenced by the chemical composition of plants. This study uses NMR-based metabolomics to establish a baseline of chemical variation to which differences between a GM potato line and its parent cultivar are compared. The effects of leaf age, virus infection, and aphid herbivory on plant metabolomes were studied. The metabolome of the GM line differed from its parent only in young leaves of noninfected plants. This effect was small when compared to the baseline. Consistently, aphid performance on excised leaves was influenced by leaf age, while no difference in performance was found between GM and non-GM plants. The metabolomic baseline approach is concluded to be a useful tool in ecological safety assessment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cb/70/PMC3279958.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3941727", "abstract": "Objective To evaluate the radiographic results of minimally invasive (MIS) anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). Methods Twelve and nineteen patients who underwent MIS-ALIF, MIS-TLIF, respectively, from 2006 to 2008 were analyzed with a minimum 24-months' follow-up. Additionally, 18 patients treated with single level open TLIF surgery in 2007 were evaluated as a comparative group. X-rays and CT images were evaluated preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the final follow-up. Fusion and subsidence rates were determined, and radiographic parameters, including lumbar lordosis angle (LLA), fused segment angle (FSA), sacral slope angle (SSA), disc height (DH), and foraminal height (FH), were analyzed. These parameters were also compared between the open and MIS-TLIF groups. Results In the MIS interbody fusion group, statistically significant increases were observed in LLA, FSA, and DH and FH between preoperative and final values. The changes in LLA, FSA, and DH were significantly increased in the MIS-ALIF group compared with the MIS-TLIF group, but SSA and FH were not significantly different. No significant differences were seen between open and MIS-TLIF except for DH. The interbody subsidence and fusion rates of the MIS groups were 12.0±4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/fc/kjs-10-65.PMC3941727.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2689498", "abstract": "When faced with the management of the patient on intensive care with acute kidney injury, the clinician has various choices to consider. The conventional therapy, where appropriate, is renal replacement therapy. This technique used to be relatively straightforward but now a relative feast of alternatives is available, not least in choice of buffer and anticoagulant. Two recent studies add to the growing body of literature concerning alternative anticoagulant regimes, and one in particular should lead to a change in practice for many of us. We also review some new studies on biomarkers in the diagnosis of acute kidney injury as well as add yet another nail in the coffin for loop diuretics in the therapy of acute kidney injury.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e3/73/PMC2689498.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4125422", "abstract": "Patterns of diversification rate variation detected in phylogenetic hypotheses are frequently used to infer historical, ecological, and evolutionary processes. The parametric rate comparison (PRC) is a method for detecting rate variation in trees that models branch lengths as random variables drawn from familiar statistical distributions. iteRates is a library of functions for the R statistical computing environment for implementing PRC on phylogenetic trees. Here, we describe some of the functions in iteRates for subtree identification, tree manipulation, applying the PRC and K-clades PRC analyses, and conducting a whole-tree randomization test.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/85/8f/PMC4125422.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4719487", "abstract": "Background: Shwas kuthar rasa is a prestigious and potential herbomineral formulation of Ayurveda tested on 100 years of time scale for the treatment of asthma, allergy, and other respiratory problems. However, there is a lack of scientific work on Shwas kuthar rasa. Objective: To prepare and physicochemically evaluate mercury-based Shwas kuthar rasa herbomineral formulation of Ayurveda for asthma and allergy. Materials and Methods: Shwas kuthar rasa was prepared as per Ayurvedic text and characterized by various modern analytical techniques, viz., transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), far infrared (IR) spectroscopy, fourier transform IR spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy. Results: Study clearly revealed that prepared Shwas kuthar rasa formulation shows several crystallites agglomerate into a single particle. It yields submicron size particle structure (1.22 μ) with TEM analysis. The usage of mercury in the formulation found in the form of mercuric sulfide (HgS) and reaching to nanocrystalline (31–56 nm) size by XRD analysis. Conclusion: The present study indicates Shwas kuthar rasa is nanocrystallite with submicron size particle. Trituration of Kajjali helps in the formation of HgS and increases the crystallinity in the formulation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/8f/JAIM-6-268.PMC4719487.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3405717", "abstract": "Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) are generated by the activity of both selective and also more general cytochrome p450 (CYP) enzymes on arachidonic acid and inactivated largely by soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), which converts them to their corresponding dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids (DHETs). EETs have been shown to have a diverse range of effects on the vasculature including relaxation of vascular tone, cellular proliferation, and angiogenesis as well as the migration of smooth muscle cells. This paper will highlight the growing evidence that EETs also mediate a number of anti-inflammatory effects in the cardiovascular system. In particular, numerous studies have demonstrated that potentiation of EET activity using different methods can inhibit inflammatory gene expression and signalling pathways in endothelial cells and monocytes and in models of cardiovascular diseases. The mechanisms by which EETs mediate their effects are largely unknown but may include direct binding to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), or transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which initiate anti-inflammatory signalling cascades.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/24/15/PMC3405717.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4806712", "abstract": "Seasonal timing is assumed to involve the circadian clock, an endogenous mechanism to track time and measure day length. Some debate persists, however, and aphids were among the first organisms for which circadian clock involvement was questioned. Inferences about links to phenology are problematic, as the clock itself is little investigated in aphids. For instance, it is unknown whether aphids possess diurnal rhythms at all. Possibly, the close interaction with host plants prevents independent measurements of rhythmicity. We reared the pea aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) on an artificial diet, and recorded survival, moulting, and honeydew excretion. Despite their plant-dependent life style, aphids were independently rhythmic under light–dark conditions. This first demonstration of diurnal aphid rhythms shows that aphids do not simply track the host plant’s rhythmicity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/21/65/iew013.PMC4806712.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3282216", "abstract": "PHACE association is a rare neurocutaneous condition in which facial hemangiomas associate with a spectrum of posterior fossa malformations, arterial cerebrovascular anomalies, cardiovascular anomalies, and eye anomalies. We reported a case of PHACE association in a premature infant showing facial, intracranial, and oropharyngeal hemangiomas with evidence of the Dandy-Walker variant and complicated cardiovascular anomalies, including a right-sided aortic arch and an atypical patent ductus arteriosus arising from a tortuous left subclavian artery. To our knowledge, intracranial hemangiomas are rare in PHACE association, and a concomitant oropharyngeal hemangioma has not been previously reported in the PHACE association literature. In infants presenting with large, plaque-like facial hemangiomas, it is important to conduct active cardiovascular and neurological evaluations. Special attention should be given to the laryngoscopic examination to search for additional hemangiomas in the airway.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/75/59/kjped-55-29.PMC3282216.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4310311", "abstract": "Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension are two common diseases that often coexist. The most common cause of death in the diabetic patient is heart disease. In the present investigation we combine Nebivolol and Nateglinide for better patient compliance. IR layer was formulated using various superdisintegrants like Crospovidone, Croscarmellose sodium, and sodium starch glycolate and SR layer was formulated using polymers and gums like HPMC E15, ethyl cellulose, Gaur gum, and Xanthan gum. The disintegration and dissolution study of both layers showed that inclusion of surfactant (sodium lauryl sulphate) to the tablet formulation (IR) and dissolution medium (SR) enhanced the release of drugs from both layers. Kinetic studies of optimized IR layer (NBL8) and SR layer (N9) showed good linearity with regression coefficient of 0.9714 (Higuchi model) and 0.9931 (zero order kinetics), respectively. The above results reveal that the optimized IR layer of Nebivolol (NBL8) and SR layer of Nateglinide (N9) might be suitable for the treatment of diabetes and hypertension by sequential release of the two drugs in a bilayer tablet. IR-immediate release, SR-sustain release, NBL8-Nebivolol 8, N9-Nateglinide 9.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/84/PMC4310311.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3767901", "abstract": "We introduce a new arthroscopic partial meniscectomy technique using a three portals and a small skin hook retractor to remove unstable inferior leaf in horizontal meniscal tear that involved the anterior portion of the lateral meniscus. The patient is positioned for a standard knee arthroscopy. After careful estimation of the depth and extent of the cleft and stability of the superior and inferior leaves is done through the standard anteromedial portal, a small skin hook retractor is inserted through the standard anterolateral portal to raise the dominant superior leaf of anterior horn, then the unstable inferior leaf is excised with a 90° rotary punch and a motorized shaver through the extreme far anteromedial portal. This technique is useful method to remove unstable inferior leaf of anterior horn of lateral meniscus which is difficult to remove with a standard technique.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f4/ec/ksrr-25-147.PMC3767901.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4754272", "abstract": "Aortic dissection during pregnancy is a devastating event for both the pregnant woman and the baby. We report a case of acute aortic dissection (Stanford type A) in a pregnant woman with Marfan syndrome at the 29th week of gestation. She underwent a cesarean section followed by an ascending aorta and total arch replacement with cardiopulmonary bypass, without a prior sternotomy. The hemodynamic parameters were kept stable during the cesarean section by using inotropes and vasopressors under transesophageal echocardiography monitoring. The newborn survived after endotracheal intubation and management in a neonatal intensive care unit.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/90/6c/kjae-69-76.PMC4754272.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4762347", "abstract": "Aims: The study aimed to compare the craniofacial features of North Indian patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to that of normal North Indian population. Materials and Methods: Selected 25 North Indian subjects (age: 18–65 years) were divided into two groups (OSA group [n = 14] and non-OSA group [n = 9]) according to the results of full night polysomnographic sleep study. Body mass index (BMI), neck circumference (NC), and lateral cephalograms were recorded for each subject in both groups and total 22 parameters of craniofacial anthropometric features were measured on lateral cephalograms for each subject. The differences in BMI, NC, and craniofacial features between the OSA and non-OSA groups were compared statistically. Results: Independent sample t-test was used to compare the differences between OSA group and non-OSA group. The results showed that the BMI, NC, bulk of tongue (tongue length, tongue height, and tongue area) and length of the soft palate (PNS-U) were significantly higher in OSA group. OSA group was also found to have inferior positioning of hyoid bone (MP-H, ANS-H, PNS-H, ANS-Eb), narrower superior and middle airway space (SPAS and MAS), antero-inferior positioning of mandible (Gn-C3, ANS-Me, SNB, N-Me) and lower cranial base flexure angle (N-S-Ba). Conclusion: Craniofacial features, which play an important role in the pathophysiology of OSA, differ significantly between North Indian patients suffering from OSA and normal North Indian population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cc/be/JIPS-15-331.PMC4762347.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC374381", "abstract": "The SARS outbreak in 2003 pushed Toronto's health care system to its limits. Staffing shortages, transmission of SARS within the ICU, and the influx of critically ill SARS patients were some unique challenges to the delivery of critical care. Communication strategies were a key component in the critical care response to SARS. Regular teleconference calls, web-based training and education, and the rapid coordination of research studies were some of the initiatives developed within the Toronto critical care community during the SARS outbreak. Other critical care communities should consider their communication strategies in advance of similar events.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/18/9f/PMC374381.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5308591", "abstract": "Hepatocellular cancer (HCC) is a very fatal disease due to limited therapeutic options as well as due to its association with underlying chronic liver disease in the majority of cases. The immune evasion in HCC signifies a major barrier to the delivery of effective immunotherapy. Sorafenib is the only Food and Drug Administration-approved drug available with an overall response rate of 2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b6/ef/cmar-9-019.PMC5308591.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4717958", "abstract": "Background: The metabolic syndrome is a clustering of metabolic abnormalities and has been associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among employees in Northeast China. Methods: Totally, 33,149 employees who received health screening in the International Health Promotion Center in the First Hospital of Jilin University were enrolled. Height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein were recorded. Three definitions for the metabolic syndrome were applied, revised National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) criteria, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria, and the Chinese Diabetes Society (CDS) criteria. Results: Overall, the age-standardized prevalence of the metabolic syndrome was 22.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/be/2b/CMJ-128-1989.PMC4717958.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3005488", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To estimate baseline cardiovascular risk of 1,123 participants in the Detection of Ischemia in Asymptomatic Diabetics (DIAD) study and to assess cardiac event rates and the effect of screening on outcomes in these higher-risk participants. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Baseline cardiovascular risk was assessed using four established methods: Framingham score, UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) risk engine, criteria of the French-Speaking Association for the Study of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, and the presence or absence of metabolic syndrome. Cardiac events (cardiac death or nonfatal myocardial infarction) were assessed during the 4.8-year follow-up in participants with intermediate/high cardiovascular risk. RESULTS By various risk-stratification approaches, 53–75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7a/7e/zdc204.PMC3005488.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3337875", "abstract": "Sclerosing cholangitis in critically ill patients (SC-CIP) is a rare condition that is not familiar to many radiologists. In addition, the associated imaging findings have not been described in the radiological literature. We report a case of biliary cast formation with SC-CIP and describe the radiological findings of CT, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), and endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC). A diagnosis of SC-CIP should be considered in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with persistent cholestasis during or after a primary illness. The typical CT, MRCP and ERC findings include new biliary casts in the intrahepatic duct with multiple irregular strictures, dilatations, and relative sparing of the common bile duct.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1e/79/kjr-13-358.PMC3337875.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2195759", "abstract": "Recent data using MHC/peptide tetramers and dimers suggests that the T cell coreceptors, CD4 and CD8, although important for T cell activation, do not play a direct role in facilitating T cell receptor (TCR) binding to multivalent MHC/peptide ligands. Instead, a current model proposes that coreceptors are recruited only after a stable TCR–MHC/peptide complex has already formed and signaled. In contrast, we show using multimeric class I MHC/peptide ligands that CD8 plays a critical (in some cases obligatory) role in antigen-specific TCR binding. T cell activation, measured by calcium mobilization, was induced by multimeric but not monomeric ligands and also showed CD8 dependency. Our analysis using anti-CD8 antibodies revealed that binding to different epitopes of CD8 can either block or augment TCR–MHC/peptide interaction. These effects on TCR binding to high-affinity agonist ligands were even more pronounced when binding to multimeric low-affinity ligands, including TCR antagonists, was studied. Our data have important implications for the role of CD8 in TCR binding to MHC/peptide ligands and in T cell activation. In addition, our results argue against the view that multimeric MHC/peptide ligands bind directly and solely to the TCR; rather, our data highlight a pivotal contribution of CD8 for this association.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/dd/99-1352.PMC2195759.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2672130", "abstract": "The standard iron-chelator deferoxamine is known to prevent the growth of coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) which are major pathogens in iron-overloaded patients. However, we found that deferoxamine rather promotes the growth of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus aureus. Accordingly, we tested whether deferiprone, a new clinically-available iron-chelator, can prevent the growth of S. aureus strains as well as CoNS. Deferiprone did not at least promote the growth of all S. aureus strains (n=26) and CoNS (n=27) at relatively low doses; moreover, it could significantly inhibit the growth of all staphylococci on non-transferrin-bound-iron and the growth of all CoNS on transferrin-bound iron at relatively high doses. At the same doses, it did not at least promote the growth of all S. aureus strains on transferrin-bound-iron. These findings indicate that deferiprone can be useful to prevent staphylococcal infections, as well as to improve iron overload, in iron-overloaded patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6d/cc/jkms-24-289.PMC2672130.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2447533", "abstract": "The transfer-messenger ribonucleoprotein (tmRNP), which is composed of RNA and a small protein, small protein B (SmpB), recycles ribosomes that are stalled on broken mRNAs lacking stop codons and tags the partially translated proteins for degradation. Although it is not yet understood how the ribosome gets from the 3' end of the truncated message onto the messenger portion of the tmRNA to add the tag, a recent study in BMC Biology has shed some light on this astonishing feat.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/2a/PMC2447533.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3132439", "abstract": "The effectiveness of therapeutic treatment based on regenerative medicine for degenerative diseases (i.e., neurodegenerative or cardiac diseases) requires tools allowing the visualization and analysis of the three-dimensional (3D) distribution of target drugs within the tissue. Here, we present a new computational procedure able to overcome the limitations of visual analysis emerging by the examination of a molecular signal within images of serial tissue/organ sections by using the conventional techniques. Together with the 3D anatomical reconstitution of the tissue/organ, our framework allows the detection of signals of different origins (e.g., marked generic molecules, colorimetric, or fluorimetric substrates for enzymes; microRNA; recombinant protein). Remarkably, the application does not require the employment of specific tracking reagents for the imaging analysis. We report two different representative applications: the first shows the reconstruction of a 3D model of mouse brain with the analysis of the distribution of the β-Galactosidase, the second shows the reconstruction of a 3D mouse heart with the measurement of the cardiac volume.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/04/1f/PMC3132439.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2902743", "abstract": "A prior fracture is a well-documented risk factor for a subsequent fracture and it doubles the risk of subsequent fractures. Few studies have investigated the time that elapses between the initial and subsequent fracture. These studies show that the subsequent fracture risk is not constant, but fluctuates over time. The risk of subsequent vertebral, hip, and nonvertebral non-hip fractures is highest immediately after initial hip, clinical, and radiographic vertebral fractures and nonvertebral fractures and declines afterward, regardless of gender, age, and initial fracture location. These studies indicate the need for early action after an initial fracture with medical interventions that have an effect within a short term to reduce the preventable risks of subsequent fractures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6a/23/11914_2010_Article_23.PMC2902743.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4013328", "abstract": "In the last decade, we have gained significant understanding of the mechanism by which vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) specifically kills cancer cells. Dysregulation of translation and defective innate immunity are both thought to contribute to VSV oncolysis. Safety and efficacy are important objectives to consider in evaluating VSV as a therapy for malignant disease. Ongoing efforts may enable VSV virotherapy to be considered in the near future to treat drug-resistant ovarian cancer when other options have been exhausted. In this article, we review the development of VSV as a potential therapeutic approach for recurrent or drug-resistant ovarian cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/6a/cjc-30-12-805.PMC4013328.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3114484", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE Sympathetic vasoconstriction is blunted in contracting human skeletal muscles (functional sympatholysis). In young subjects, infusion of adenosine and ATP increases blood flow, and the latter compound also attenuates α-adrenergic vasoconstriction. In patients with type 2 diabetes and age-matched healthy subjects, we tested 1) the sympatholytic capacity during one-legged exercise, 2) the vasodilatory capacity of adenosine and ATP, and 3) the ability to blunt α-adrenergic vasoconstriction during ATP infusion. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In 10 control subjects and 10 patients with diabetes and normal endothelial function, determined by leg blood flow (LBF) response to acetylcholine infusion, we measured LBF and venous NA, with and without tyramine-induced sympathetic vasoconstriction, during adenosine-, ATP-, and exercise-induced hyperemia. RESULTS LBF during acetylcholine did not differ significantly. LBF increased ninefold during exercise and during adenosine- and ATP-induced hyperemia. Infusion of tyramine during exercise did not reduce LBF in either the control or the patient group. During combined ATP and tyramine infusions, LBF decreased by 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/35/1186.PMC3114484.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3479781", "abstract": "Parathyromatosis, in which several nodules of hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue form in the neck and mediastinum, is a rare cause of recurrent hyperparathyroidism. However, there are some theories regarding the origin of parathyromatosis, and seeding after rupture of the parathyroid gland capsule during surgical removal of a parathyroid lesions is the most regarded one. Herein, we report a 41-year-old man who presented with multiple parathyroid nodules in and around the left thyroid lobe 5 years after parathyroid surgery for secondary hyperparathyroidism that was finally diagnosed as parathyromatosis. We discuss the differential diagnosis of parathyromatosis from other parathyroid tumors, particularly from parathyroid carcinoma, which is important in the management of a suspected lesion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/6d/kjpathol-46-197.PMC3479781.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3719338", "abstract": "Background Nitric oxide (NO) is synthesized from L-arginine by a family of enzymes known as nitric oxide synthases. Low concentrations of NO is essential in biology and physiology of spermatozoa, but high amounts of NO is toxic and has negative effects on sperm functions. Moreover, sperm membrane contains high concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are highly susceptible to oxidative damage that interferes with fertilization ability. Therefore, we investigated the correlation between levels of sperm malondialdehyde (MDA) and NO with sperm motility in male smokers. Methods Semen samples were collected from normozoospermic smoker (n=64) and nonsmoker (n=83) men. The content of sperm lipid peroxidation was determined by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA). The sperm NO were also measured using Griess reagent. Data was analyzed by SPSS, (version 15.0), using independent t-test and Pearson analysis. Results The mean MDA and NO concentrations in the sperm of normozoospermic male smokers were significantly higher than the control group or normozoospermic nonsmokers, (p <0.001). A significant negative relationship was noted between sperm motility and sperm MDA levels (r=−0.32, p=0.01); and sperm motility and sperm NO concentration (for nitrite, r=−0.34, p=0.006 and for nitrate, r=−0.38, p=0.002). Conclusion It was concluded that the increase in MDA and NO production in sperm can influence sperm motility in normozoospermic smokers. Therefore, it seems that cigarette smoking may affect the fertility of male smokers via increasing the amount of sperm MDA/lipid peroxidation and NO concentrations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/64/62/JRI-13-81.PMC3719338.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3658239", "abstract": "Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection of the gastrointestinal tract occurs in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts. Often presenting as ulcerative lesions, CMV infection rarely presents as a mass lesion in the gastrointestinal tract. We present a case of a discrete colonic mass caused by CMV infection in a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This case illustrates that an infectious process such as CMV should be considered along with malignancy as the etiology of a mass lesion present in the gastrointestinal tract of patients with AIDS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b8/b3/PMC3658239.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3080123", "abstract": "Abstract Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour (IMFT) is a relatively uncommon neoplasm with unpredictable malignant potential known to occur anywhere in the body. IMFT involving the omentum is a very rare entity with less than 15 cases reported so far. We report a case of omental IMFT in a 15-year-old girl who presented with multiple peritoneal masses on imaging and the diagnosis was confirmed on histopathology. In addition to its uncommon location, its presentation as multiple masses is extremely uncommon. This uncommon presentation as multifocal masses needs to be distinguished from other causes of peritoneal carcinomatosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/95/cb/PMC3080123.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4868272", "abstract": "Feral livestock may harbor genetic variation of commercial, scientific, historical or esthetic value. The origins and uniqueness of feral cattle on Chirikof Island, Alaska, are uncertain. The island is now part of the Alaska Maritime Wildlife Refuge and Federal wildlife managers want grazing to cease, presumably leading to demise of the cattle. Here we characterize the cattle of Chirikof Island relative to extant breeds and discern their origins. Our analyses support the inference that Yakut cattle from Russia arrived first on Chirikof Island, then  120 years ago the first European taurine cattle were introduced to the island, and finally a large wave of Hereford cattle were introduced on average 40 years ago. In addition, this mixture of European and East-Asian cattle is unique compared with other North American breeds and we find evidence that natural selection in the relatively harsh environment of Chirikof Island has further impacted their genetic architecture. These results provide an objective basis for decisions regarding conservation of the Chirikof Island cattle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d4/8c/hdy20167a.PMC4868272.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4752102", "abstract": "Objectives  To evaluate if the different results of prostate cancer risk between black and white Brazilian men may be associated with the varying methodology used to define participants as either Blacks or Whites. Patients and Methods  We evaluated median PSA values, rate of PSA level ≥4.0 ng/mL, indications for prostate biopsy, prostate cancer detection rate, biopsy/cancer rate, cancer/biopsy rate, and the relative risk of cancer between blacks versus whites, blacks versus non-blacks (browns and whites), non-whites (browns and blacks) versus whites, African versus non-African descendants, and African descendants or blacks versus non-African descendants and non-blacks. Results  From 1544 participants, there were 51.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/09/1677-5538-ibju-41-2-0360.PMC4752102.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4890895", "abstract": "Familial occurrence of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) has been reported in scattered cases, which potentially favors the congenital theory. A review of the literature was conducted to demonstrate this phenomenon in China. PubMed, VIP, and CNKI databases were searched for studies describing at least two Chinese BCS patients from the same one family. In the 18 eligible papers, 30 siblings or first-degree relatives from 14 families were diagnosed with BCS at 9 different centers. Common clinical presentations included varices of abdominal wall and lower limbs, edema of legs, and ascites. Type and location of obstruction were similar among these patients from the same one family. Screening for BCS was conducted in 65 family members from 3 families, demonstrating that 2 asymptomatic siblings from one family were further diagnosed with BCS. Factor V Leiden mutation was found in 3 of 4 patients from one family and in one of 2 patients from another one family. Prothrombin G20210A gene mutation was found in none of the 4 patients from the 2 families. In conclusion, our study showed the possibility of familial aggregation in Chinese BCS patients, but these available data cannot support the previous hypothesis that familial BCS originates from congenital vascular malformation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/c3/PMC4890895.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4777937", "abstract": "Purpose Presentation of a case report of a unilateral ampiginous choroiditis. Methods This is an observational case report. Results A 70-year-old woman was referred to us with unilateral scattered chorioretinal lesions. The multifocal pattern of the lesions and the angiographic features led to the diagnosis of ampiginous choroiditis. Conclusion Ampiginous choroiditis is a primary inflammatory choriocapillaropathy with characteristics of both acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy and serpiginous choroiditis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e9/96/cop-0006-0453.PMC4777937.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4992089", "abstract": "Background The existing therapeutic methods for neonatal jaundice are costly, time-consuming and potentially risky. Zinc salts can reduce phototherapy duration by precipitating unconjugated bilirubin in the intestine (bilirubin and zinc can form a complex in physiologic pH); however, zinc toxicity is an issue that must be considered since theoretically bilirubin reduction by phototherapy may increase serum zinc levels, making additional zinc supplementation the potential cause of zinc toxicity. Objectives So, our purpose was evaluating the serum zinc level alterations before and after phototherapy, in hyperbilirubinemic newborns. Materials and Methods A prospective cohort study was performed at the children’s medical center of Tehran University of Medical Sciences from 2012 to 2014. Healthy, full-term exclusively breast fed newborns with non-hemolytic jaundice were enrolled in the study. Participants were divided into two groups based on serum bilirubin levels (TSB < 18 mg/dL and TSB ≥ 18 mg/dL) at admission. Pre- and post-phototherapy total serum zinc level was measured before and 12 - 24 hours after termination of phototherapy. Results Phototherapy was associated with a significant increase in the serum zinc level in neonates with severe hyperbilirubinemia (TSB ≥ 18 mg/dL) but not in those with mild-moderate hyperbilirubinemia (TSB < 18 mg/dL). In addition, phototherapy caused a significant increase in the rate of zinc with potentially toxic levels (zinc > 200) in only neonates with severe hyperbilirubinemia. Conclusions Phototherapy increases serum zinc level by reducing bilirubin level so that additional supplementation of this element can lead potentially to zinc toxicity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fb/77/ijp-26-03-4146.PMC4992089.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4361155", "abstract": "This article is one of ten reviews selected from the Annual Update in Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine 2015 and co-published as a series in Critical Care. Other articles in the series can be found online at http://ccforum.com/series/annualupdate2015. Further information about the Annual Update in Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine is available from http://www.springer.com/series/8901.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/50/1b/PMC4361155.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5114252", "abstract": "Background Laminoplasty is a surgical procedure frequently performed for cervical myelopathy. We investigated correlations between changes in the anteroposterior diameter (APD) of the spinal canal, spinal canal area (SCA), and laminar angle (LA) and clinical outcomes of laminoplasty. Methods Of the 204 cervical myelopathy patients who underwent laminoplasty from July 2010 to May 2015, 49 patients who were evaluated with pre- and postoperative computed tomography of the cervical vertebrae were included. The average age of the patients was 60.4 years (range, 31 to 82 years), and the average duration of follow-up was 31.6 months (range, 9 to 68 months). Changes in the APD and SCA were measured at the middle of the vertebral body. Changes in LA were measured where both pedicles were clearly visible. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and visual analog scale score for pain preoperatively (1 day before surgery) and postoperatively (last outpatient visit) and examining postoperative complications. Results The APD showed an average of 54.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c8/6f/cios-8-399.PMC5114252.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3952489", "abstract": "Fluorinated core–shell spheres have been synthesized using a novel semibatch emulsion polymerization protocol employing slow feeding of the initiator. The synthesis results in aqueous dispersions of highly monodisperse spheres bearing a well-defined poly(ethylene glycol) graft (PEGylation). Measurements are consistent with the synthesis achieving a high grafting density that moreover consists of a single PEG layer with the polymer significantly elongated beyond its radius of gyration in bulk. The fluorination of the core of the particles confers a low index of refraction such that the particles can be refractive index matched in water through addition of relatively small amounts of a cosolvent, which enables the use of optical and laser-based methods for studies of concentrated systems. The systems exhibit an extreme stability in NaCl solutions, but attractions among particles can be introduced by addition of other salts, in which case aggregation is shown to be reversible. The PEGylated sphere dispersions are expected to be ideally suited as model systems for studies of the effect of PEG-mediated interactions on, for instance, structure, dynamics, phase behavior, and rheology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dc/f0/PMC3952489.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5175021", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE: Lateral epicondylitis is one of the widely seen lesions of the arm characterized by pain localized over lateral epicondyle which is the insertion site of the wrist extensors, and extensor muscles of the forearm. It is easy to diagnose lateral epicondylitis but treatment involves some inherent drawbacks. Conservative management includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ultrasound therapy, steroid injections, functional bracing, laser therapy and extracorporeal shock wave therapy, however none of these modalities have been shown to be really effective based on evidence-based data. Our study is aimed to determine the efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) therapy in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis. METHODS: A total of 12 patients with the diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis were included in the study and 3 sessions of ESWT were applied (1 session per week). Maximum grip strength and pain scores were assessed before and at 1. month after the treatment. Spesific tests for lateral epicondylitis were utilized and Turkish version of the Patient Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE-T) questionnaire was administered and data obtained were analyzed. RESULTS: Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were significantly lower (p<0.05) and grip strength significantly increased (p<0.05) one month after ESWT treatment. Overall PRTEE-T survey scores decreased significantly at first month (p<0.001) after treatment. Patient’s and physician’s global self-assessment scores were significantly lower after treatment (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: To conclude, ESWT utilization in conservative treatment of lateral epicondyilitis was found to be effective on reducing pain, and improving functional activities and quality of life.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/24/NCI-1-33.PMC5175021.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3235892", "abstract": "Leishmaniases are parasitic diseases that spread in many countries with a prevalence of 12 million cases. There are few available treatments and antimonials are still of major importance in the therapeutic strategies used in most endemic regions. However, resistance toward these compounds has recently emerged in areas where the replacement of these drugs is mainly limited by the cost of alternative molecules. In this paper, we reviewed the studies carried out on antimonial resistance in Leishmania. Several common limitations of these works are presented before prevalent approaches to evidence antimonial resistance are related. Afterwards, phenotypic determination of resistance is described, then confronted to clinical outcome. Finally, we detail molecular mechanisms and targets involved in resistance and already identified in vitro within selected mutant strains or in clinical isolates.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f2/fc/PMC3235892.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4957687", "abstract": "Background Literature has demonstrated the adaptive function of identity development and parenting toward manifestation of problem behaviors in adolescence. These dimensions act on both internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Methods The objective is to investigate the relationship between identity status, parenting, and adolescent problems, which may manifest through internalized (phobias, obsessions, depression, eating disorders, entropy) and externalized modes (alcohol use and school discomfort). The research involved 198 Italian students (104 males and 94 females) in the 4th year (mean =16.94 years, standard deviation =0.35) and 5th year (mean =17.94 years, standard deviation =0.43) of senior secondary schools, who live in Caltanissetta, a town located in Sicily, Italy. The research lasted for 1 school year. The general group consisted of 225 students with a mortality rate of 12", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/76/2b/ndt-12-1769.PMC4957687.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4441773", "abstract": "Introduction: Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of lip and oral cavity cancers. In majority of cases it follows quite common course, and after the surgery it does not produce any harm. This case presents unusual and unexpected growth of upper lip squamous cell carcinoma with severe cosmetic problems, and possible health threats. Case Presentation: A 46-year-old woman noticed on her upper lip “a spot, the size of a wheat grain”, which grew rapidly and reached the size of 0.6 cm during a two-week period. The lesion was red, hard and painful, attached to the skin. It was surgically removed, and primary histopathological finding was follicular keratosis. Recurrent tumor appeared seven days after the operation, with the extreme swelling of the upper lip. The patient was sent to a tertiary hospital, where fungal or bacterial infection was excluded. The change on the patient’s upper lip reached the size of 5 × 2 cm, as soft, reddish nodular tumor. Squamous cell carcinoma was diagnosed after the histopathological audit. With the second surgical intervention the tumor was removed and the defect reconstructed. Conclusions: Prognosis of this type of tumor, apart from its size and differentiation level, depends on infiltration in tumor-surrounding tissue, perineural and perivascular spread. Therefore, it is always necessary to analyze the removed skin especially on margins.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/5a/ircmj-17-03-13478.PMC4441773.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3932272", "abstract": "A number of recent studies have reported that working memory does not seem to show typical age-related deficits in healthy older adults when emotional information is involved. Differently, studies about the short-term ability to encode and actively manipulate emotional information in dementia of Alzheimer's type are few and have yielded mixed results. Here, we review behavioural and neuroimaging evidence that points to a complex interaction between emotion modulation and working memory in Alzheimer's. In fact, depending on the function involved, patients may or may not show an emotional benefit in their working memory performance. In addition, this benefit is not always clearly biased (e.g., towards negative or positive information). We interpret this complex pattern of results as a consequence of the interaction between multiple factors including the severity of Alzheimer's disease, the nature of affective stimuli, and type of working memory task.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ca/b4/PMC3932272.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4719256", "abstract": "Introduction: Giant cell tumour of bone (GCT) is a common benign primary bone tumour, seen commonly in the distal Femur, proximal Tibia and distal Radius. Very few cases of GCT are reported in distal humerus. We report an unusual presentation of recurrent Giant cell tumour in a 25 year old male in the medial condyle and epicondyle of left Humerus. Case Series: Patient presented elsewhere with lytic lesion of left elbow three years ago. As it is an uncommon site for tumors, it was misdiagnosed as tuberculous osteomyelitis and was inadequately curetted. Patient presented to us with recurrence of tumor one year after the primary surgery. We did en-bloc resection of the tumour, with judicious removal of partial trochlea. Though reconstruction was planned, it was found to be not necessary as the elbow was stable per-operatively. Patient regained near normal movements of the elbow with no instability. His Mayo Elbow Performance score improved from 30 to 85. There is no recurrence or metastasis of the tumor in the two-year follow-up. Conclusion: Though bone tumors are rare in distal Humerus, biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis of any lytic lesion in this region for proper management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/af/d3/JOCR-3-42.PMC4719256.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4155849", "abstract": "A total of 131 phlebotomine Algerian sandflies have been processed in the present study. They belong to the species Phlebotomus bergeroti, Phlebotomus alexandri, Phlebotomus sergenti, Phlebotomus chabaudi, Phlebotomus riouxi, Phlebotomus perniciosus, Phlebotomus longicuspis, Phlebotomus perfiliewi, Phlebotomus ariasi, Phlebotomus chadlii, Sergentomyia fallax, Sergentomyia minuta, Sergentomyia antennata, Sergentomyia schwetzi, Sergentomyia clydei, Sergentomyia christophersi and Grassomyia dreyfussi. They have been characterised by sequencing of a part of the cytochrome b (cyt b), t RNA serine and NADH1 on the one hand and of the cytochrome C oxidase I of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) on the other hand. Our study highlights two sympatric populations within P. sergenti in the area of its type-locality and new haplotypes of P. perniciosus and P. longicuspis without recording the specimens called lcx previously found in North Africa. We tried to use a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method based on a combined double digestion of each marker. These method is not interesting to identify sandflies all over the Mediterranean Basin.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/da/44/0074-0276-mioc-109-4-0466.PMC4155849.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3693728", "abstract": "Introduction Chronic low back pain is a disabling phenomenon that can cause a severe reduction in quality of life, especially in elderly patients. Surgical treatment is sometimes a big challenge for these elderly patients. Radiofrequency (RF) ablation is an increasingly popular method for treating low back pain caused by facet syndrome. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether RF neurotomy is effective in terms of pain reduction and functional outcome in elderly patients. Patients and methods Fifty-eight patients aged 80 years and older who had chronic mechanical low back pain were examined after they underwent RF heat lesion of the medial branch. Follow-up occurred 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Pain was measured on the visual analog scale and functional outcome was measured using the Oswestry Disability Index. Results After 1 month, 43 patients (74", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/b9/PMC3693728.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3375088", "abstract": "Obesity is associated with increased risks for mental disorders. This study examined associations of obesity indicators including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist-height ratio with suicidal ideation among U.S. women. We analyzed data from 3,732 nonpregnant women aged ≥20 years who participated in the 2005–2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We used anthropometric measures of weight, height, and waist circumference to calculate BMI and waist-height ratio. Suicidal ideation was assessed using the Item 9 of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Odds ratios with 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/20/7f/PMC3375088.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3039275", "abstract": "Although many studies have shown that administration of stem cells after focal cerebral ischemia improves brain damage, very little data are available concerning the damage induced by global cerebral ischemia. The latter causes neuronal death in selectively vulnerable areas, including the hippocampal CA1 region. We tested the hypothesis that intravenous infusion of bone marrowderived stromal cells (mesenchimal stem cells, MSC) reduce brain damage after transient global ischemia. In adult male Sprague-Dawley rats transient global ischemia was induced using bilateral common carotid artery occlusion for 20 min in addition to controlled hypotension. Five days after, the animals were anaesthetized with urethane and the brain was fixed, sectioned and stained with hematoxylin-eosin to investigate histological damage. MSC did not fully protect against ischemic damage, as the number of viable neurons in this group was lower than in normal (sham-operated) rats. However, in MSC-treated rats the number of viable CA1 pyramidal neurons was significally higher than in rats that had been subjected to ischemia but not treated with MSC. We conclude that intravenous administration of MSC after transient global ischemia reduces hippocampal damage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/a7/PMC3039275.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3074574", "abstract": "Adsorption of pulmonary surfactant to an air−water interface lowers surface tension (γ) at rates that initially decrease progressively, but which then accelerate close to the equilibrium γ. The studies here tested a series of hypotheses concerning mechanisms that might cause the late accelerated drop in γ. Experiments used captive bubbles and a Wilhelmy plate to measure γ during adsorption of vesicles containing constituents from extracted calf surfactant. The faster fall in γ reflects faster adsorption rather than any feature of the equation of state that relates γ to surface concentration (Γ). Adsorption accelerates when γ reaches a critical value rather than after an interval required to reach that γ. The hydrophobic surfactant proteins (SPs) represent key constituents, both for reaching the γ at which the acceleration occurs and for producing the acceleration itself. The γ at which rates of adsorption increase, however, is unaffected by the Γ of protein in the films. In the absence of the proteins, a phosphatidylethanolamine, which, like the SPs, induces fusion of the vesicles with the interfacial film, also causes adsorption to accelerate. Our results suggest that the late acceleration is characteristic of adsorption by fusion of vesicles with the nascent film, which proceeds more favorably when the Γ of the lipids exceeds a critical value.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ff/0d/PMC3074574.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3590635", "abstract": " Background. Breast cancer survival has improved significantly in the US in the past 10–15 years. However, disparities exist in breast cancer survival between black and white women. Purpose. To investigate the effect of county healthcare resources and SES as well as individual SES status on breast cancer survival disparities between black and white women. Methods. Data from 1,796 breast cancer cases were obtained from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results and the National Longitudinal Mortality Study dataset. Cox Proportional Hazards models were constructed accounting for clustering within counties. Three sequential Cox models were fit for each outcome including demographic variables; demographic and clinical variables; and finally demographic, clinical, and county-level variables. Results. In unadjusted analysis, black women had a 53", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ed/d5/PMC3590635.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3604578", "abstract": "Immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related sclerosing disease is a newly defined clinicopathological entity characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration of IgG4-positive plasma cells and varying degrees of fibrosis within affected tissues. Patients usually exhibit multisystem involvement and often respond well to steroid and immunosuppressive therapy. This report presents a case of IgG4-related sclerosing disease involving the ureter and kidney. We hope to bring IgG4-related sclerosing disease to the attention of urologists, because it is an uncommon disease that commonly responds to systemic corticosteroids.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/4b/kju-54-209.PMC3604578.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5186748", "abstract": "Background: Recently, essential oils and extracts derived from plants have received much interest as potential bio-active agents against mosquito vectors. Methods: The essential oils extract from fresh peel of ripe fruit of Citrus aurantium and Citrus paradisi were tested against mosquito vector Anopheles stephensi (Diptera: Culicidae) under laboratory condition. Then chemical composition of the essential oil of C. aurantium was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Results: The essential oils obtained from C. aurantium, and C. paradisi showed good larviciding effect against An. stephensi with LC50 values 31.20 ppm and 35.71 ppm respectively. Clear dose response relationships were established with the highest dose of 80 ppm plant extract evoking almost 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1d/f3/PMC5186748.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4838792", "abstract": "Exposure to bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) induces inflammatory signals in salivary glands. We investigated the regulatory role of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor rolipram on inflammatory mediators and cholinergic/adrenergic stimulation-induced intracellular Ca2+ signaling in salivary acinar and ductal cells. Submandibular gland (SMG) expressed PDE4A through 4D mRNA and PDE4 was localized in the luminal membrane of SMG. LPS induced Ca2+ signaling and ROS production in SMG. Treatment with rolipram blocked LPS-induced Ca2+ increase and ROS production. The application of histamine evoked Ca2+ signals and ROS production, which were attenuated by rolipram in SMG cells. Moreover, LPS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome and cleaved caspase-1 were inhibited by rolipram. The inhibitory role of rolipram in ROS-induced Ca2+ signaling was mainly observed in acinar cells and not in ductal cells. Rolipram also protected SMG acinar but not ductal cells from LPS-induced cell membrane damage. In the case of cholinergic/adrenergic stimulation, carbachol/isoproterenol-induced Ca2+ signals were upregulated by the treatment of rolipram in SMG. In the case of cAMP-dependent ductal bicarbonate secretion by rolipram, no effect was observed on the modulation of ductal chloride/bicarbonate exchange activity. Rolipram could suppress the inflammatory signals and could be a potential therapeutic strategy against LPS-induced inflammation to protect the salivary gland cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/c5/PMC4838792.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4600599", "abstract": "Background: The emergence of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii complicates the therapy of the related infections. Hospital isolates of A. baumannii are usually multidrug-resistant. The problem is compounded by increasing resistance to broad-spectrum antibiotics including carbapenems. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and distribution of blaOXA-type carbapenemases genes among A. baumannii isolates from hospitalized patients in Shiraz, Southwest Iran. Materials and Methods: Two hundred A. baumannii isolates were recovered from different clinical specimens in four Shiraz teaching hospitals. Isolates were detected as A. baumannii by Microgen kit and PCR with specific primers of blaOXA-51-like gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was determined by disk diffusion method for all the isolates. Multiplex PCR assays were performed for detection of blaOXA-23-like, blaOXA-24-like and blaOXA-58-like genes. Results: All the isolates were susceptible to colistin and polymyxin B. Moreover, all of them were resistant to piperacillin, piperacillin-tazobactam, ampicillin, ceftazidime, cefoxitin and aztreonam. Eighty (40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/aa/jjm-08-08-20215.PMC4600599.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4591567", "abstract": "Background: Due to the high clinical challenges, differences in coping strategies, and high workload in nurses, there is a need to develop strategies to keep them in the profession. The aim of the present study was to explore the Iranian nurses’ coping strategies to deal with intention to leave. Methods: A qualitative content analysis was used to obtain rich data. We performed 13 in-depth face-to-face semi-structured interviews with nurses working in hospitals affiliated to Tabriz and Urmia Universities of Medical Sciences in Iran, selected through purposive sampling. Constant comparative method was used for data analysis. Results: Three categories and eleven subcategories emerged during data analysis. The extracted categories and sub-categories consisted of (I) Self-empowerment (practical knowledge increase, responsibility, finding identification of the nurse, balancing work and life, seek support and humanitarian interests), (II) Self-controlling (tolerance, avoidance, the routine-based performance), and (III) Pursuing opportunities for advancement and promotion (community development, planning for higher education). Conclusion: Nurses make attempts to individually manage problems and stressors perceived from bedside that have led them to leave the bedside; these efforts have been effective in some cases but sometimes they are ineffective due to discontinuous training and relative competence in terms of how to manage and deal with problems. It is suggested that nurses should learn strategies scientifically to meet the challenges of bedside. Through enabling and supporting behaviors and creating opportunities for growth and professional development, nursery managers can help nurses to stay and achieve improvement of the quality of cares.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ef/3f/IJCBNM-3-318.PMC4591567.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3013708", "abstract": "The Arabidopsis Gene Regulatory Information Server (AGRIS; http://arabidopsis.med.ohio-state.edu/) provides a comprehensive resource for gene regulatory studies in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. Three interlinked databases, AtTFDB, AtcisDB and AtRegNet, furnish comprehensive and updated information on transcription factors (TFs), predicted and experimentally verified cis-regulatory elements (CREs) and their interactions, respectively. In addition to significant contributions in the identification of the entire set of TF–DNA interactions, which are the key to understand the gene regulatory networks that govern Arabidopsis gene expression, tools recently incorporated into AGRIS include the complete set of words length 5–15 present in the Arabidopsis genome and the integration of AtRegNet with visualization tools, such as the recently developed ReIN application. All the information in AGRIS is publicly available and downloadable upon registration.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cc/66/gkq1120.PMC3013708.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4377166", "abstract": "Hydatid disease (HD) is a parasitic infection that is most commonly caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus. Unusual location for this disease can cause diagnostic and therapeutic problems. We herein report a case of sacrococcygeal HD at an unusual location in a 30-year-old woman. She was evaluated using computed tomography (CT) imaging and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after the demonstration of the lucent bone lesion on plain pelvic radiography. There was an expansile lytic mass without contrast enhancement suggesting a cystic mass in the sacrococcygeal region. Medical history revealed that she had undergone surgery for liver HD and the serological test results were diagnostic for HD. In light of this, no surgery was carried out for this cystic mass and she was followed with the diagnosis of sacrococcygeal HD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/09/a3/iranjradiol-12-02-20228.PMC4377166.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4752633", "abstract": "Objective We aimed to assess the effects of interferon β (IFNβ) treatment on the expression of the splice variants of the Tumour necrosis factor-Related Apoptosis Inducing Ligand (TRAIL) and its receptors in different cell subpopulations (CD14+, CD4+ and CD8+) from patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), and to determine whether this expression discriminated responders from non-responders to IFNβ therapy. Methods We examined mRNA expression of the TRAIL and TRAIL receptors variants in patients with MS, at baseline and after one year of IFNβ therapy, according to responsiveness to this drug. Results Long-term therapy with IFNβ increased the expression of TRAIL-α in T cell subsets exclusively from responders and decreased the expression of the isoform 2 of TRAILR-2 in monocytes from responders as well as non-responders. Lower expression of TRAIL-α, and higher expression of TRAIL-β in monocytes and T cells, was found before the onset of IFNβ therapy in patients who will subsequently become responders. Baseline expression of TRAILR-1 was also significantly higher in monocytes and CD4+ T cells from responders. Conclusions The present study shows that long-term IFNβ treatment has a direct influence on TRAIL-α and TRAILR-2 isoform 2 expression. Besides, receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that the baseline expression of TRAIL-α in monocytes and T cells, and that of TRAILR-1 in monocytes and CD4+ T cells, showed a predictive value of the clinical response to IFNβ therapy, pointing to a role of TRAIL system in the mechanism of action of IFNβ in MS that will need further investigation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/f8/jnnp-2014-309932.PMC4752633.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2731870", "abstract": "We report a case of hypereosinophilia causing multiple areas of cerebral infarcts. A 52-year-old Korean man presented with dysarthria and weakness in both arms. A brain MRI revealed multiple acute infarcts in the distal border zone with focal intracerebral hemorrhage, whereas a cerebral angiogram was not remarkable. The eosinophil count was 5,500/µL and was accompanied by elevated cardiac enzyme levels. The pattern of cerebral infarcts and laboratory results suggest a thromboembolic infarction associated with hypereosinophilia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/1f/kjr-10-511.PMC2731870.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5080181", "abstract": "[Purpose] Primary care is considered the gateway to the Brazilian public health system and is responsible for managing the most prevalent problems in the population. In this study, the effects of Back School on pain, functionality, and the performance of activities of daily living (ADL) in users with chronic musculoskeletal pain were evaluated. [Subjects and Methods] Forty-four users (33 females and 11 males) participated in Back School, with five two-hour theoretical and practical meetings held once a week. The assessment instruments used were as follows: (a) a circuit evaluation of posture dynamics recorded on video, (b) an observational instrument of ADL using video, (c) anamnesis, (d) the visual analogue scale, and (e) the Oswestry Disability Index. [Results] The results showed decreased pain intensity, improved functionality, and the recovery of ADL. [Conclusion] The Back School program is an effective health education strategy for users with chronic musculoskeletal pain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/f3/jpts-28-2581.PMC5080181.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5234341", "abstract": "In this report, we present a case of 35-year-old lady who had presented with atypical chest pain and exertional breathlessness for past six months. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiograms showed a well-circumscribed, echo-dense mass in the right atrium, attached to the interatrial septum at the level of atrioventricular junction and in the vicinity of coronary sinus ostium. She underwent successful resection of the cardiac mass. Histopathology revealed paraganglioma, which was reconfirmed by immunohistochemistry study. This represents an extremely rare presentation as primary cardiac tumors are 20-times less common than metastatic tumors and paraganglioma is one of the rarest primary cardiac tumors, accounting for < 1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/bc/jcu-24-334.PMC5234341.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3672571", "abstract": "Blockade of the CXC chemokine receptor 3 (CXCR3) attenuates inflammation and improves survival in a murine model of near lethal polymicrobial sepsis. However, given the multitude of cellular responses and inflammatory mediators that orchestrate sepsis syndrome, more detailed investigations will be required before a complete understanding of the mechanism(s) of CXCR3 blockade and its therapeutic potential are revealed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cb/75/PMC3672571.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4457384", "abstract": "Somatostatin is a neuropeptide hormone that inhibits pituitary growth hormone (GH) release. Using microarray analysis of gene expression in the livers of wildtype control and somatostatin knockout mice, we have previously identified a panel of genes whose GH-dependent and sexually dimorphic expression patterns are significantly altered by the absence of somatostatin (1). Here, we provide methodological and analytical details of that study, the raw data of which is deposited in the Gene Expression Omnibus as data set GSE56520. In addition, we performed further gene ontology analysis of the data and found that the differential expression of a second subset of genes in the livers of somatostatin-knockout mice versus wildtype controls is likely independent of GH signaling and involved in the innate immune response.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/2a/main.PMC4457384.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3782834", "abstract": " Background. Tenascin-C (TN-C) is an extracellular matrix glycoprotein that appears at sites of inflammation in cardiac pathologies. Aim of the Work. To evaluate the role of TN-C as a marker for active inflammation in children with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Subjects and Methods. 24 consecutive patients with primary nonfamilial DCM aged 6–72 months (mean 45.19 ± 11.03) were divided into group I, twelve patients with acute onset DCM (<6 months duration), and group II, twelve patients with chronic DCM (>6 months duration), and compared to 20 healthy age- and sex-matched controls. Investigations included estimation of serum TN-C and echocardiographic evaluation using M-mode and 2D speckle tracking echocardiography (STE). Results. Serum TN-C showed a higher significant statistical elevation among patients than controls (P < 0.001) and in group I than group II (P < 0.001). EF was significantly decreased, and LVEDD and EDV increased in patients than controls and in GI than GII. STE showed a statistically significant difference in global peak strain longitudinal (GPSL) average in patients than controls (P < 0.05) and between GI and GII (P < 0.001). STE wall motion scoring showed normokinesia (33.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5b/33/PMC3782834.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5415319", "abstract": "Dendritic cells (DCs) are potent antigen-presenting cells that constitute a major component of the immune system’s role in the recognition, elimination, and tolerance of cancer. The unique immunologic capabilities of DCs have recently been harnessed for therapeutic use with the creation of DC-based anti-tumor vaccines, several of which have moved into testing in clinical trials for hematologic malignancies. This review summarizes how treatment strategies using DC-based anti-tumor vaccines are advancing immunotherapeutic options for these diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/56/1f/main.PMC5415319.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3116000", "abstract": "Propionibacterium acnes is a gram-positive anaerobic bacillus and a normal inhabitant of the skin. Although it is often considered a contaminant of blood cultures, it can occasionally cause serious infections, including postoperative central nervous system infections. Here, we report the case of a 70-yr-old man who developed a large cerebral abscess caused by P. acnes 13 months after neurosurgery. Immediate gram staining of the pus from his brain revealed the presence of gram-positive coccobacilli. However, colony growth was observed only after 5 days of culture. Therefore, we performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the pus specimen. The isolate was identified as P. acnes. The colonies developed 9 days after the initial culture. The API Rapid ID 32A test (bioMérieux, France) was performed using a colony, but an unacceptable profile was obtained. Then, the pus was transferred into the enrichment broths of the BACTEC FX (Becton Dickinson, USA) and BacT/Alert 3D (bioMérieux, Organon Teknika, USA) systems, but only the BACTEC FX system could detect growth after 5 days. We performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing and API Rapid 32A profiling with a colony recovered from Brucella agar, which was inoculated with the microbial growth in the enrichment broth from the BACTEC FX system. The organism was identified as P. acnes by both methods. This case suggests that 16S rRNA gene sequencing may be a useful alternative for identifying slowly growing P. acnes from specimens that do not show growth after 5 days of culture.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/82/2a/kjlm-31-122.PMC3116000.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3379615", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To describe trends of primary efficacy and safety outcomes of islet transplantation in type 1 diabetes recipients with severe hypoglycemia from the Collaborative Islet Transplant Registry (CITR) from 1999 to 2010. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 677 islet transplant-alone or islet-after-kidney recipients with type 1 diabetes in the CITR were analyzed for five primary efficacy outcomes and overall safety to identify any differences by early (1999–2002), mid (2003–2006), or recent (2007–2010) transplant era based on annual follow-up to 5 years. RESULTS Insulin independence at 3 years after transplant improved from 27", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/df/1436.PMC3379615.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5063745", "abstract": " Introduction Several surgical techniques and modifications have been described to reduce the high recurrence rate after excision of preauricular sinus.  Objectives The aim of this study is to review the literature regarding surgical approaches for preauricular sinus.  Data Synthesis We performed searches in the LILACS, MEDLINE, SciELO, PubMed databases and Cochrane Library in September, 2015, and the key words used in the search were “preauricular sinus,” “sinusectomy,” “supra-auricular approach,” “methylene blue,” and/or “recurrence.” We revised the results of 17 studies, including 1270 preauricular sinuses that were surgically excised by sinusectomy in 937 ears and by supra-auricular approach in 333 ears. Recurrence with supra-auricular was 4 (1.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e0/db/PMC5063745.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3072480", "abstract": "We present the case of a patient who had a 3-year history of episodes of transitory unilateral mydriasis with omolateral blurred vision followed by headache. Thereafter, during the last 4 years, the patient developed a migraine with visual aura, without further episodes of transitory mydriasis. We suggest that the transitory mydriasis previously present could be considered as an unusual form of migrainous aura. A possible pathogenetic mechanism is proposed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/0d/PMC3072480.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3204565", "abstract": "Undifferentiated carcinoma with osteoclast-like giant cells is a rare neoplasm of the exocrine pancreas. Some similar cases have been reported, but the histogenesis of these tumors varies and is controversial. We report here on a case of undifferentiated carcinoma of the pancreas with osteoclast-like giant cells. A 77-year old woman presented with abdominal pain and anorexia. Abdominal computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed an approximately 10 × 5 cm highly attenuated mass arising from the tail of the pancreas and invading the spleen and adjacent bowel loop. The initial impression was a malignant endocrine tumor or solid-pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas. The patient underwent a distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy and left hemicolectomy. The histopathology and immunohistochemistry helped make the diagnosis that of an undifferentiated carcinoma with osteoclast-like giant cells of the pancreas.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/94/3c/jkss-81-146.PMC3204565.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5059534", "abstract": "C57BL/6 mice were tested in order to investigate the effects of dietary chitosan (COS) supplements on intestinal microflora and resistance to Citrobacter rodentium infection. The findings reveal that, after consuming a 300 mg/kg COS diet for 14 days, microflora became more diverse as a result of the supplement. Mice receiving COS exhibited an increase in the percentage of Bacteroidetes phylum and a decrease in the percentage of Firmicutes phylum. After Citrobacter rodentium infection, the histopathology scores indicated that COS feeding resulted in less severe colitis. IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly lower in colon from COS-feeding mice than those in the control group. Furthermore, mice in COS group were also found to experience inhibited activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in the colonic tissue. Overall, the findings revealed that adding 300 mg/kg COS to the diet changed the composition of the intestinal microflora of mice, resulting in suppressed NF-κB activation and less production of TNF-α and IL-6; and these changes led to better control of inflammation and resolution of infection with C. rodentium.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/1b/PMC5059534.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3573775", "abstract": "Aquagenic palmar wrinkling (APW) is an uncommon dermatological condition, which manifests as asymptomatic or tender palmar papules and may cause discomfort and manual functional limitations during its flares. Despite some studies implying a relationship between cystic fibrosis (CF) and APW, there are also reports of APW cases without an accompanying CF. In this report we describe a 19-year-old ankylosing spondylitis patient, who developed APW lesions after the start of combined salazopyrin and indomethacin treatment. His palmar lesions were resistant to topical corticosteroid and aluminium hydroxide therapy and disappeared only after stopping the anti-inflammatory drugs. With this report, we aim to highlight and address this underrecognized dermatological condition and possible role of aquaporins in its pathogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bc/cf/cde-0005-0021.PMC3573775.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4584077", "abstract": "Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is deemed the most prevalent infectious disease in that it has now touched the overall incidence of 18/1000 persons per year in the general population. Objectives: This study sought to determine the characteristics of isolates from patients with UTI and their susceptibility to commonly used antibiotics in Punjab, Pakistan. Patients and Methods: Totally, 1429 urine samples were analyzed from UTI patients for the isolation of uropathogens at Chughtai’s Lahore Lab, Lahore, Pakistan, during a period of 14 months. The antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed via the disc diffusion method for the isolates obtained from 392 (26", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9a/07/jjm-08-07-19272.PMC4584077.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3842987", "abstract": "The elaborate spatial organization of cells enhances, restricts, and regulates protein–protein interactions. However, the biological significance of this organization has been difficult to study without ways of directly perturbing it. We highlight synthetic biology tools for engineering novel cellular organization, describing how they have been, and can be, used to advance cell biology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/a9/3585.PMC3842987.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3485648", "abstract": "Abstract Lipoblastoma is a rare benign tumour arising from embryonic white fat. The tumours occur primarily in infancy and early childhood and usually arise from the limbs and the trunk, but neck involvement is rare. We report three cases of head and neck lipoblastoma. In all cases, imaging showed a well-delineated, fat-containing tumour. After surgical resection, the outcome of these patients was uneventful.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/93/5e/PMC3485648.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2213077", "abstract": "In this study, we identify the bidirectional organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3/Slc22a3) as the molecule responsible for histamine uptake by murine basophils. We demonstrate that OCT3 participates in the control of basophil functions because exogenous histamine can inhibit its own synthesis—and that of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, and IL-13—through this means of transport. Furthermore, ligands of H3/H4 histamine receptors or OCT3 inhibit histamine uptake, and outward transport of newly synthesized histamine. By doing so, they increase the histamine content of basophils, which explains why they mimic the effect of exogenous histamine. These drugs were no longer effective in histamine-free histidine decarboxylase (HDC)-deficient mice, in contrast with histamine itself. Histamine was not taken up and lost its inhibitory effect in mice deficient for OCT3, which proved its specific involvement. Intracellular histamine levels were increased strongly in IL-3–induced OCT3 −/− bone marrow basophils, and explained why they generated fewer cytokines than their wild-type counterpart. Their production was enhanced when histamine synthesis was blocked by the specific HDC inhibitor α-fluoro-methyl histidine, and underscored the determinant role of histamine in the inhibitory effect. We postulate that pharmacologic modulation of histamine transport might become instrumental in the control of basophil functions during allergic diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/07/99/20050195.PMC2213077.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3885226", "abstract": "Mitochondrial 12S rRNA has proven to be a useful molecular marker for better conservation and management of the endangered species. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene has proven to be a reliable and efficient tool for the identification of different Indian deer species of family cervidae. In the present study, mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene sequence of mouse deer (Moschiola indica) belonging to the family Tragulidae was characterized and analysed in silico for its use in species identification. Genomic DNA was isolated from the hair follicles and mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene was amplified using universal primers. PCR product was cloned and sequenced for the first time. The sequence of mouse deer showed 90.04, 90.08, 90.04, 91.2, 90.04, and 90.08", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3b/bd/PMC3885226.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3066464", "abstract": "Objective: To examine the effect of donepezil for the treatment of cognitive and behavioral disorders associated with thalamic lesions in a 45-year-old male who suffered an infarct in the left thalamus. Background: Recent studies suggest that donepezil may improve executive functions impairments due to subcortical ischemic lesions. Method: The effects of donepezil were analyzed in a single-case of thalamic infarction with cognitive and behavioral alterations in an open label study. Results: Significant behavioral modifications related to improved performances in executive functions were observed with the treatment. Conclusion: The results suggest that donepezil may have significant effect on executive functions that can alter behavioral outcomes after thalamic infarctions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/19/45/PMC3066464.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4842472", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of scapular stabilization exercise on neck posture, muscle activity, pain, and quality of life in individuals with neck pain and forward head posture. [Subjects and Methods] Fifteen participants were recruited according to the selection criteria and were randomly allocated to the scapular stabilization group (n=8) and the control group (n=7). The scapular stabilization group underwent training for 30 minutes a day, 3 times a week for 4 weeks; the control group performed relaxation exercises for 4 weeks. [Results] After training the scapular stabilization group showed significant improvement on the craniovertebral angle, upper trapezius muscle activity, serratus anterior muscle activity, Neck Disability Index scores, Visual Analog Scale scores, and World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment-BREF scores compared to those in the control group. [Conclusion] Scapular stabilization exercise can help improve the head posture and pain in the patients with neck pain and forward head posture. Controlling the muscular activities through scapular stabilization exercise also improves the patients’ quality of life.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/3d/jpts-28-951.PMC4842472.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3182067", "abstract": "Methanoarchaea have an outstanding capability to methylate numerous metal(loid)s therefore producing toxic and highly mobile derivatives. Here, we report that the production of methylated bismuth species by the methanoarchaeum Methanobrevibacter smithii, a common member of the human intestine, impairs the growth of members of the beneficial intestinal microbiota at low concentrations. The bacterium Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, which is of great importance for the welfare of the host due to its versatile digestive abilities and its protective function for the intestine, is highly sensitive against methylated, but not against inorganic, bismuth species. The level of methylated bismuth species produced by the methanoarchaeum M. smithii in a coculture experiment causes a reduction of the maximum cell density of B. thetaiotaomicron. This observation suggests that the production of methylated organometal(loid) species in the human intestine, caused by the activity of methanoarchaea, may affect the health of the host. The impact of the species to reduce the number of the physiological intestinal microbiota brings an additional focus on the potentially harmful role of methanoarchaea in the intestine of a higher organism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/1f/PMC3182067.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4897458", "abstract": "Auto pollution is the by-product of our mechanized mobility, which adversely affects both plant and human life. However, plants growing in the urban locations provide a great respite to us from the brunt of auto pollution by absorbing the pollutants at their foliar surface. Foliar surface configuration and biochemical changes in plant species, namely, Sida cordifolia L. and Catharanthus roseus L. grown at roadside (polluted site 1, Talkatora; polluted site 2, Charbagh) in Lucknow city and in the garden of the university campus, which has been taken as reference site, were investigated. It was observed that air pollution caused by auto exhaust showed marked alterations in photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll, carotenoid, and phaeophytin), and relative water content was reduced while antioxidative enzymes like catalase and peroxidase were found to be enhanced. The changes in the foliar configuration reveal marked alteration in epidermal traits, with decreased number of stomata, stomatal indices, and epidermal cells per unit area, while length and breadth of stomata and epidermal cells were found to be increased in leaves samples wich can be used as biomarkers of auto pollution.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9f/3c/PMC4897458.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5156886", "abstract": "Scleromyxedema is a rare and distinctive variant of cutaneous mucinoses of unknown etiology. It is presenting with generalized papular eruption and sclerodermoid induration. Numerous treatment modalities have been reported to produce partial or permanent responses. This study reports on a case of scleromyxedema without paraproteinemia in a subject who experienced a partial response to thalidomide and prednisolone.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/36/f3/cde-0008-0327.PMC5156886.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4562184", "abstract": "Almost all cells and organisms release membrane structures containing proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids called extracellular vesicles (EVs), which have a wide range of functions concerning intercellular communication and signaling events. Recently, the characterization and understanding of their biological role have become a main research area due to their potential role in vaccination, as biomarkers antigens, early diagnostic tools, and therapeutic applications. Here, we will overview the recent advances and studies of Evs shed by tumor cells, bacteria, parasites, and fungi, focusing on their inflammatory role and their potential use in vaccination and diagnostic of cancer and infectious diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/98/8d/PMC4562184.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3658542", "abstract": "Stridor is the main symptom of upper airway obstruction in infants. It can be congenital or acquired, acute or chronic. Pathologies can be located from the nose down to the trachea. Common causes include laryngomalacia, vocal cord palsy, subglottic stenosis, tracheal anomaly, laryngeal cleft, vascular and lymphatic malformation, laryngeal papillomas, craniofacial abnormalities and even head and neck tumours. In this paper, we will discuss our approach to infants with stridor including assessment with flexible and rigid endoscopy and treatments to various conditions in a tertiary centre. Causes of stridor in infants undergoing rigid laryngotracheobronchoscopy in Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong Medical Centre between 2005 and 2011 will be retrospectively reviewed. Treatments according to various conditions will be discussed. Successful management of these neonates requires accurate diagnosis, early intervention, and multidisciplinary care by ENT surgeons, paediatricians, and paediatric anaesthetists.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/17/87/PMC3658542.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4060260", "abstract": "Cryptococcosis is the most common cause of meningitis in Africa due to the high burden of HIV. Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) is a frequent and deadly complication of cryptococcal meningitis. We report a fatal case of cryptococcal-IRIS in a pregnant woman that began after starting antiretroviral therapy (unmasking IRIS) and markedly worsened postpartum after delivery (paradoxical IRIS).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b5/80/main.PMC4060260.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4677253", "abstract": "Previous studies have demonstrated that sigma-1 receptor plays important roles in the induction phase of rodent neuropathic pain; however, whether it is involved in bone cancer pain (BCP) and the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. The aim of this study was to examine the potential role of the spinal sigma-1 receptor in the development of bone cancer pain. Walker 256 mammary gland carcinoma cells were implanted into the intramedullary space of the right tibia of Sprague-Dawley rats to induce ongoing bone cancer-related pain behaviors; our findings indicated that, on days 7, 10, 14, and 21 after operation, the expression of sigma-1 receptor in the spinal cord was higher in BCP rats compared to the sham rats. Furthermore, intrathecal injection of 120 nmol of sigma-1 receptor antagonist BD1047 on days 5, 6, and 7 after operation attenuated mechanical allodynia as well as the associated induction of c-Fos and activation of microglial cells, NR1, and the subsequent Ca2+-dependent signals of BCP rats. These results suggest that sigma-1 receptor is involved in the development of bone cancer pain and that targeting sigma-1 receptor may be a new strategy for the treatment of bone cancer pain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/65/65/PMC4677253.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3417857", "abstract": "Objective Millimeter size gelatin sponges are commonly used as an embolic agent for transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE). However the preparation of the fragments is troublesome and carries a risk of contamination. The purpose of this study was to develop gelatin sponge millispheres (GSMs), a convenient and reliable agent, and characterize them in vitro. Method The size of GSMs was controlled by modifying the previously reported method to include the use of caprylic triglyceride and isopropanol. Analytical and microbiological tests were conducted to detect impurities (caprylic triglyceride, isopropanol, endotoxins, bacteria, and fungus). The effects of syringe volume (1.0 to 5.0 ml) and contrast media viscosity (1.6 to 13.6 mPa * s) on the in vitro injectability of GSMs through microcatheters of various inner diameters (ID) (0. 43 to 0.53 mm) were examined via in-line pressure monitoring. Results The GSMs were found to be water-insoluble particles containing interconnected pores. The short and long diameters of the GSMs were 1.82 ± 0.2 mm and 2.37 ± 0.3 mm, respectively. The results of tests for impurities indicated that GSMs have the general properties necessary for medical devices. The GSMs were successfully injected without clogging through a microcatheter (ID: 0.53 mm) attached to a 1.0 or 2.5 ml syringe. Conclusion GSMs have the basic properties and injectability necessary to be considered reliable biomaterials (eg, embolic agents).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/90/1b/PMC3417857.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4366971", "abstract": "This prospective longitudinal cohort study was to assess the 10-yr hip fracture incidence and mortality trend of person ≥50 yr of age between 2002 and 2011 of eight hospitals in Jeju Island. Sex-specific incidence rate (per 100,000 person-years) were calculated based on that estimated for the population in the United States in 2008. Poisson and logistic regressions were used to examine trends in incidence and mortality. There was a 101", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f7/18/jkms-30-483.PMC4366971.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2946595", "abstract": "To characterize imaging features of pure DCIS on dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging (DCE-MRI), 31 consecutive patients (37-81 years old, mean 56), including 2 Grade I, 16 Grade II, and 13 Grade III, were studied. MR images were reviewed retrospectively and the morphological appearances and kinetic features of breast lesions were categorized according to the ACR BI-RADS breast MRI lexicon. DCE-MRI was a sensitive imaging modality in detecting pure DCIS. MR imaging showed enhancing lesions in 29/31 (94", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cf/bd/PMC2946595.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3805900", "abstract": "Glutamate is a nonessential amino acid, a major bioenergetic substrate for proliferating normal and neoplastic cells, and an excitatory neurotransmitter that is actively involved in biosynthetic, bioenergetic, metabolic, and oncogenic signaling pathways. Glutamate signaling activates a family of receptors consisting of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), both of which have been implicated in chronic disabling brain disorders such as Schizophrenia and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis. In this review, we discuss the structural and functional relationship of mGluRs and iGluRs and their downstream signaling pathways. The three groups of mGluRs, the associated second messenger systems, and subsequent activation of PI3K/Akt, MAPK, NFkB, PLC, and Ca/CaM signaling systems will be discussed in detail. The current state of human mGluR1a as one of the most important isoforms of Group I-mGluRs will be highlighted. The lack of studies on the human orthologues of mGluRs family will be outlined. We conclude that upon further study, human glutamate-initiated signaling pathways may provide novel therapeutic opportunities for a variety of non-malignant and malignant human diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9c/73/ijbsv09p0948.PMC3805900.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3445998", "abstract": "Background Pearson syndrome (PS) is a rare multisystem mitochondrial disorder of hematopoietic system, characterized by refractory sideroblastic anemia, pancytopenia, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and variable neurologic, hepatic, renal, and endocrine failure. Case Presentation We describe a six-month-old female infant with Pearson marrow syndrome who presented with neurological manifestations. She had several episodes of seizures. Hematopoietic abnormalities were macrocytic anemia and neutropenia. Bone marrow aspiration revealed a cellular marrow with marked vacuolization of erythroid and myeloid precursors. Analysis of mtDNA in peripheral blood showed 8.5 kb deletion that was compatible with the diagnosis of PS. Conclusion PS should be considered in infants with neurologic diseases, in patients with cytopenias, and also in patients with acidosis or refractory anemia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b0/b1/IJPD-20-107.PMC3445998.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3446034", "abstract": "Objective Spina bifida occulta (SBO) has been largely considered a benign entity without clinical significance; however, there has been dispute among various authorities, and some believe that the lesion may be linked with various neurologic conditions like urologic dysfunctions. Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and lower urinary tract dysfunction are closely related. We examined whether the existence of SBO is related to the prevalence and severity of VUR in children. Methods We investigated 359 children, 2–14 years old, referred to radiology department for obtaining voiding cystourethrogram after the first attack of febrile urinary tract infection. After treatment of infection, with written order of responsible physicians all underwent a standard voiding cystourethrogram to detect VUR and other lower urinary tract anomalies. The patients were divided into two groups: group1 patients who had not SBO and group 2 patients with SBO in postvoiding or KUB films. In each group the presence and severity of VUR was determined in relation to the location of SBO. Findings Out of 359 children, 228 (63.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/41/2c/IJPD-20-348.PMC3446034.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5423309", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objectives To assess the dental status of institutionalized intellectually disabled individuals in Lebanon and the role of background and behavioural determinants. Material and Methods Oral health was recorded for 652 individuals (6, 12, 15 and 35 - 44 years old) using the decayed, missing and filled teeth/decayed and filled teeth (DMFT/dft) index. Data collected was statistically analysed with statistical significance set at P = 0.05. Results Overall, mean DMFT index score was 5.86 (SD 6); composed of 3.64 (SD 4.05) decayed (D) teeth; 1.71 (SD 4.38) missing (M) teeth; 0.87 (SD 2.51) filled (F) teeth. DMFT was highest in adults (12.71 [SD 7.43]) and had a large component of missing (6.24 [SD 7.02]) and filled (3.31 [SD 4.56]) teeth. DMFT scores ranged between 3.5 (SD 4.44) at 6 years and 4.8 (SD 4.52) at 15 years and the decayed component was the main contributor. In multivariate analyses, governorate of residence was statistically significantly (P ≤ 0.040 and P ≤ 0.044) associated with D and DMFT, the degree of disability and caretaker educational level were statistically significantly (P = 0.009 and P = 0.008) associated with D, oral hygiene practices were statistically significantly (P ≤ 0.017; P < 0.001; P ≤ 0.017; P < 0.001) associated with D, M, F and DMFT and sugar consumption was statistically significantly (P ≤ 0.03 and P ≤ 0.019) associated with D and DMFT. Conclusions In Lebanon, preventive and treatment programs to improve the oral health status of institutionalized intellectually disabled subjects are needed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/15/b3/jomr-08-e4.PMC5423309.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5057046", "abstract": "Introduction We examined the effect of seasonal variation on sexual behavior and its relationship with testosterone levels. The existence of the inhibiting effect of cold stress on sexual behavior and testosterone levels was our hypothesis. Material and methods A total of 80 cases, aged between 20 and 35 years old, were enrolled. Blood samples for testosterone, FSH, LH, and prolactin were obtained twice from each participant at the same time of day (before 10 am). The first samples were taken in January and February, the months which have the average lowest heat days (-15.9°C and -14.6°C, respectively) in our region. The second samples were taken in July and August, which has the average highest heat days (25.4°C and 26.1°C, respectively) in our region. Two times IIEFs (International Index of Erectil Function) were fulfilled at the same day of taking blood samples. The frequency of sexual thoughts and ejaculation were questioned by asking “How many times did you imagine having sex?’’ and “How many times did you ejaculate in a week?”. The body mass index of the participants in the study was calculated in the winter and in the summer. Results There were significant differences in terms of IIEF scores, frequency of sexual thoughts and ejaculations, BMI (Body mass index), and both testosterone and FSH levels between the winter and summer measurements. We did not find any significant differences with regards to prolactin and LH levels. Conclusions Although testosterone levels are within normal limits in both seasons, its level in cold months is less than in hot months. Testosterone levels can change according to the season. The impact of cold seasons in particular should be taken into account when evaluating testosterone levels and sexual status, as well as the other influences (social, cultural).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d0/8d/CEJU-69-00793.PMC5057046.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2831518", "abstract": "Biocompatibility is one of the main requirements for the safe use of medical devices. Determination of cytotoxicity is part of the initial evaluation stipulated by ISO standards for the biological evaluation of medical devices. The use of cell cultures to test the biocompatibility of drugs, biomaterials or treatment techniques used in various disciplines is gaining in importance. A wide variety of self-initiated and commercially available cell lines has been evaluated and used: cultured fibroblasts from human skin, buccal mucosa, periodontal membrane, embryonic lung, epithelial and HeLa cells; cultures of human keratinocytes and HaCaT cells; different murine cell lines (C3H-L, Balb/c 3T3, L929 and others) as well as murine cells cultured from liver and spleen; T-lymphocytes from lymph nodes and macrophages obtained by lavage. All of the above cells are suitable for use in biocompatibility tests. Nevertheless, the general opinion is that toxicity tests in vitro will be more convincing when performed with cells that are homologous with the human tissue concerned. In accordance, appropriate cell lines for use in cytotoxicity and tolerance tests concerning the skin would be human dermal fibroblasts and human epidermal keratinocytes, as they take an active part in the immune response, inflammatory processes, and wound healing. The evaluation of the in vitro cytotoxicity of a biomaterial is often a qualitative analysis based on the morphological examination of cell damage and growth after direct or indirect contact with the material. Different commercial assays based on the determination of nucleic acids, metabolic activity, protein content or membrane integrity are available to measure cell proliferation and cell viability. A small selection – Pico Green® DNA Cell Proliferation Assay, ATPLite™ Luminescence ATP Detection Assay, BC Assay: protein quantitation kit, AlamarBlue™ Proliferation Assay and Live/Dead Staining with SYTO-13 and EthD-2 – are discussed concerning sensitivity, reliability and applicability.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/fe/KHI-03-12.PMC2831518.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4856438", "abstract": "Genetic differences between Arabidopsis thaliana accessions underlie the plant’s extensive phenotypic variation, and until now these have been interpreted largely in the context of the annotated reference accession Col-0. Here we report the sequencing, assembly and annotation of the genomes of 18 natural A. thaliana accessions, and their transcriptomes. When assessed on the basis of the reference annotation, one-third of protein-coding genes are predicted to be disrupted in at least one accession. However, re-annotation of each genome revealed that alternative gene models often restore coding potential. Gene expression in seedlings differed for nearly half of expressed genes and was frequently associated with cis variants within 5 kilobases, as were intron retention alternative splicing events. Sequence and expression variation is most pronounced in genes that respond to the biotic environment. Our data further promote evolutionary and functional studies in A. thaliana, especially the MAGIC genetic reference population descended from these accessions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/72/nihms780091.PMC4856438.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3697778", "abstract": "Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the microvascular complications of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, which is also associated with a poor life expectancy of diabetic patients. However, the pathogenesis of DN is still unclear. Thus, it is of great use to establish appropriate animal models of DN for doing research on pathogenesis and developing novel therapeutic strategies. Although a large number of murine models of DN including artificially induced, spontaneous, and genetically engineered (knockout and transgenic) animal models have been developed, none of them develops renal changes sufficiently reflecting those seen in humans. Here we review the identified murine models of DN from the aspects of genetic background, type of diabetes, method of induction, gene deficiency, animal age and gender, kidney histopathology, and phenotypic alterations in the hope of enhancing our comprehension of genetic susceptibility and molecular mechanisms responsible for this disease and providing new clues as to how to choose appropriate animal models of DN.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/41/a3/PMC3697778.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4710912", "abstract": "Proteolytic stability in gastrointestinal tract and blood plasma is the major obstacle for oral peptide drug development. Inhibitor cystine knots (ICKs) are linear cystine knot peptides which have multifunctional properties and could become promising drug scaffolds. ProTx-I, ProTx-II, GTx1-15, and GsMTx-4 were spider-derived ICKs and incubated with pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, and elastase in physiological conditions to find that all tested peptides were resistant to pepsin, and ProTx-II, GsMTx-4, and GTx1-15 showed resistance to all tested proteases. Also, no ProTx-II degradation was observed in rat blood plasma for 24 hours in vitro and ProTx-II concentration in circulation decreased to half in 40 min, indicating absolute stability in plasma and fast clearance from the system. So far, linear peptides are generally thought to be unsuitable in vivo, but all tested ICKs were not degraded by pepsin and stomach could be selected for the alternative site of drug absorption for fast onset of the drug action. Since spider ICKs are selective inhibitors of various ion channels which are related to the pathology of many diseases, engineered ICKs will make a novel class of peptide medicines which can treat variety of bothering symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d5/91/PMC4710912.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4462427", "abstract": "The trigeminal ganglion (TG), a cluster of pseudounipolar neurons, is located in the trigeminal impression of the temporal pyramid. It is covered by a sheath of the dura mater and arachnoid and is near the rear end of the cavernous sinus. The peripheral processes of the pseudounipolar cells are involved in the formation of the first and second branch and the sensory part of the third branch of the fifth cranial nerve, and the central ones form the sensory root of the nerve, which penetrates at the level of the middle cerebellar peduncle, aside from the pons, and terminate in the sensory nuclei of the trigeminal complex. We found that the primary sensory neurons involved in sensory innervation of the orofacial complex are a diverse group. Although they possess the general structure of pseudounipolar neurons, there are significant differences among them, seen in varying intensities of staining. Based on our investigations we classified the neurons into 7 groups, i.e. large, subdivided into light and dark, medium, also light and dark, and small light and dark, and, moreover, neurons with an irregular shape of their perikarya. Further research by applying various immunohistochemical methods will clarify whether differences in the morphological patterns of the neurons are associated with differences in the neurochemical composition of various neuronal types.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/56/03/cm-86-97.PMC4462427.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5362842", "abstract": "Case summary A 15-year-old neutered female domestic shorthair cat presented with lethargy and acute-onset dyspnoea. Thoracic computed tomography (CT) revealed a large, cranial mediastinal mass with an estimated volume of 180.7 cm3. Chemotherapy consisting of dexamethasone followed by L-asparaginase, prednisolone, vincristine and doxorubicin was commenced owing to the severity of disease and initial possibility of lymphoma. A diagnosis of lymphocyte-rich thymoma was made based upon histological examination, positive pancytokeratin staining, variable lymphocyte CD3 expression and T cell receptor gamma polyclonality. Thoracic CT performed 35 days after the commencement of chemotherapy showed a marked reduction in the size of the mass, with an estimated volume of 9.4 cm3. A median sternotomy and thymectomy were performed. No clinical signs have recurred 34 months after surgery. Conclusions and relevance The response to chemotherapy in this case was unusual, and is likely associated with the high non-neoplastic lymphoid component of the mass. The case demonstrates that preoperative chemotherapy can be used to reduce thymoma volume prior to surgery, potentially decreasing anaesthetic risk.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/0c/10.1177_2055116915585024.PMC5362842.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2967375", "abstract": "Motile animals actively seek out and gather resources they find rewarding, and this is an extremely powerful organizer and motivator of animal behavior. Mammalian studies have revealed interconnected neurobiological systems for reward learning, reward assessment, reinforcement and reward-seeking; all involving the biogenic amine dopamine. The neurobiology of reward-seeking behavioral systems is less well understood in invertebrates, but in many diverse invertebrate groups, reward learning and responses to food rewards also involve dopamine. The obvious exceptions are the arthropods in which the chemically related biogenic amine octopamine has a greater effect on reward learning and reinforcement than dopamine. Here we review the functions of these biogenic amines in behavioral responses to rewards in different animal groups, and discuss these findings in an evolutionary context. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/de/24/PMC2967375.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2734998", "abstract": "Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) undergo changes related to proliferation and apoptosis in the physiological remodeling of vessels and in diseases such as atherosclerosis and restenosis. Recent studies also have demonstrated the vascular cell proliferation and programmed cell death contribute to changes in vascular architecture in normal development and in disease. The present study was designed to investigate the apoptotic pathways induced by 25-hydroxycholesterol in SMCs cultures, using an in vivo/in vitro cell model in which SMCs were isolated and culture from chicken exposed to an atherogenic cholesterol-rich diet (SMC-Ch) and/or an antiatherogenic fish oil-rich diet (SMC-Ch-FO). Cells were exposed in vitro to 25-hydroxycholesterol to study levels of apoptosis and apoptotic proteins Bcl-2, Bcl-XL and Bax and the expression of bcl-2 and bcl-xL, genes. The quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and the Immunoblotting western blot analysis showed that 25-hydroxycholesterol produces apoptosis in SMCs, mediated by a high increase in Bax protein and Bax gene expression. These changes were more marked in SMC-Ch than in SMC-Ch-FO, indicating that dietary cholesterol produces changes in SMCs that make them more susceptible to 25-hydroxycholesterol-mediated apoptosis. Our results suggest that the replacement of a cholesterol-rich diet with a fish oil-rich diet produces some reversal of cholesterol-induced changes in the apoptotic pathways induced by 25-hydroxycholesterol in SMCs cultures, making SMCs more resistant to apoptosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/41/39/PMC2734998.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3483825", "abstract": " Objective. To project the increased incidence of HIV and subsequent costs resulting from the expected decreased rate of circumcision due to Medicaid defunding in one southeastern state. Methods. Using 2009 South Carolina (SC) Medicaid birth cohort (n = 29, 316), we calculated expected heterosexually acquired HIV cases at current circumcision rates. To calculate age/race/gender specific HIV incidence rates, we used 2009 South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control reported gender and race specific HIV cases, CDC reported age distribution of HIV cases, and 2009 S.C. population data. Accounting for current circumcision rates, we calculated the change in incidence of heterosexually acquired HIV assuming circumcision provides 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/31/9d/PMC3483825.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3388345", "abstract": "Ondansetron HCl delivery through oral route suffers due to its low bioavailability due to first-pass metabolism. Therefore, the microemulsion-based transdermal delivery may be a better substitute for it. The pseudoternary phase diagrams were constructed to determine compositions of microemulsions, and ondansetron HCl microemulsions for transdermal delivery were developed using isopropyl myristate or oleic acid as the oil phase, Tween 80 as the surfactant, and isopropyl alcohol as the cosurfactant evaluated for in vitro skin permeation through excised porcine skin. The in vitro skin permeation from these formulated microemulsions was sustained over 24 hours. The microemulsion F-8 (contained 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/11/f0/PMC3388345.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4848438", "abstract": "Background Geisinger Health System implemented the Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS) in 2011 and is fully integrated to the Electronic Medical Record (EMR). Our objective was to assess whether the emergency department (ED) MEWS (auto-calculated by EMR) is associated with admission to the hospital, admission disposition, inpatient mortality, and length of stay (LOS) 4 years after its implementation. Methods A random sample of 3,000 patients’ first encounter in the ED was extracted in the study period (between January 1, 2014 and May 31, 2015). Logistic regression was done to analyze whether mean, maximum, and median ED MEWS is associated with admission disposition, mortality, and LOS. Results Mean, maximum, and median ED MEWS is associated with admission to the hospital, admission disposition, and mortality. It correlates weakly with LOS. Conclusion MEWS can be integrated to the EMR, and the score automatically generated still helps predict catastrophic events. MEWS can be used as a triage tool when deciding whether and where patients should be admitted.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/45/2b/JCHIMP-6-31456.PMC4848438.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3284208", "abstract": "Background Diabetes mellitus is accompanied by chronic and dangerous microvascular changes affecting most body systems, especially the eye, leading to diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy without appropriate management is emerging as one of the leading causes of blindness. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the early diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy, reduce the risk of blindness, and identify relevant risk factors. Methods This descriptive study was designed to estimate the prevalence of retinopathy and its staging in diabetic patients attending the diabetes clinic at King Fahd Hospital in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from 2008 to 2010. Patients completed a questionnaire, underwent a full medical assessment carried out by the treating clinicians, and were examined for evidence of diabetic retinopathy using standard ophthalmic outpatient instruments. Results In total, 690 randomly selected diabetic patients of mean age 46.10 ± 11.85 (range 16–88) years were included, comprising 395 men (57.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/79/38/PMC3284208.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3360171", "abstract": "This article reviewed achievements and challenges of the National Health Insurance of the Republic of Korea and shared thoughts on its future directions. Starting with large workplaces of 500 or more employees in 1977, Korea's National Health Insurance successfully achieved universal coverage within just 12 yr in 1989. This amazing pace of growth was possible due to a positive combination of strong political will and rapid economic growth. Key features of Korea's experience in achieving universal coverage include 1) gradual expansion of coverage, 2) careful consideration to maintain sound insurance finances, and 3) introducing multiple health insurance societies (multiple payer system) at the initial stage. Introduction of the health insurance has dramatically improved Korea's health indicators and has fueled the rapid growth of basic medical infrastructure including medical institutions and professionals. On the other hand, the successful expansion was not free from side-effects. Although coverage has gradually expanded, benefits are still relatively low. The current situation warrants concern because coverage expansion is driven by welfare populism asserted by irresponsible political slogans and lacks a social consensus on basic principles and philosophy regarding the expansion. Concentration of patients to a few large prestigious hospitals as well as the inefficiencies resulting from a colossal single-payer system should also be pointed out.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/d6/jkms-27-S3.PMC3360171.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4453885", "abstract": "Abstract Background Surveillance of dermatophytosis is essential to determine the likely changes in etiological trends and distribution profile of this infection. In this study beta tubulin gene (BT2), was used as the first time in a PCR-RFLP format to clarify the distribution of dermatophytosis agents in some parts of Iran. Methods A total of 603 clinical isolates was obtained from 500 patients in Tehran, Isfahan, Mazandaran and Guilan provinces. The isolates were identified using macro/micro-morphological criteria and electrophoretic patterns of PCR amplicons of BT2after digestion with each of the restriction enzymes FatI, HpyCH4V, MwoI and Alw21I. Results Among the patients, 59.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/9e/PMC4453885.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC111504", "abstract": "Background In host erythrocytes, the malaria parasite must contend with ion and drug transport across three membranes; its own plasma membrane, the parasitophorous membrane and the host plasma membrane. Isolation of pure and intact Plasmodium falciparum plasma membrane would provide a suitable model to elucidate the possible role played by the parasite plasma membrane in ion balance and drug transport. Results This study describes a procedure for isolating parasite plasma membrane from P. falciparum-infected erythrocytes. With this method, the trophozoites released by saponin treatment were cleansed of erythrocyte membranes using anti-erythrocyte antibodies fixed to polystyrene beads. These trophozoites were then biotinylated and the parasite plasma membrane was disrupted by nitrogen cavitation. This process allows the membranes to reform into vesicles. The magnetic streptavidin beads bind specifically to the biotinylated parasite plasma membrane vesicles facilitating their recovery with a magnet. These vesicles can then be easily released from the magnetic beads by treatment with dithiotreithol. The parasite plasma membrane showed optimal ATPase activity at 2 mM ATP and 2 mM Mg2+. It was also found that Ca2+ could not substitute for Mg2+ ATPase activity in parasite plasma membranes whereas activity was completely preserved when Mn2+ was used instead of Mg2+. Other nucleoside triphosphates tested were hydrolysed as efficiently as ATP, while the nucleoside monophosphate AMP was not. Conclusions We have described the successful isolation of intact P. falciparum plasma membrane vesicles free of contaminating organelles and determined the experimental conditions for optimum ATPase activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/be/a5/PMC111504.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2894343", "abstract": "Metal interconnections having a small cross-section and short length can be subjected to very large mass transport due to the passing of high current densities. As a result, nonlinear diffusion and electromigration effects which may result in device failure and electrical instabilities may be manifested. Various thicknesses of Pd were deposited over SrTiO3 substrate. Residual stress of the deposited film was evaluated by measuring the variation of d-spacing versus sin2ψ through conventional X-ray diffraction method. It has been found that the lattice misfit within film and substrate might be relaxed because of mass transport. Besides, the relation between residual intrinsic stress and oxygen diffusion through deposited film has been expressed. Consequently, appearance of oxide intermediate layer may adjust interfacial characteristics and suppress electrical conductivity by increasing electron scattering through metallic films.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/3e/1556-276X-5-709.PMC2894343.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3506841", "abstract": "Modular femoral and acetabular components are now widely used, but only a few complications related to the modularity itself have been reported. We describe a case of dissociation of the modular total hip arthroplasty (THA) at the femoral neck–stem interface during walking. The possible causes of this dissociation are discussed. Successful treatment was provided with surgical revision and replacement of the modular neck components. Surgeons who use modular components in hip arthroplasties should be aware of possible early complications in which the modularity of the prostheses is the major factor of failure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/2c/PMC3506841.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3192355", "abstract": "Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare disease with unknown etiology and pathogenesis. It is characterized by diffuse, innumerable, and minute calculi, called microlithiasis in the alveoli. More than half of reported cases are asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis. We describe the first case of PAM in Korea. A 19-yr-old man without respiratory symptoms presented with interstitial thickening on the chest radiograph. His chest high resolution CT scan showed diffusely scattered, ill defined tiny micronodules and interstitial thickening. Open lung biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of PAM. He was followed up for 6 months without treatment, and no progression was noticed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/48/jkms-26-1391.PMC3192355.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5300793", "abstract": "[Purpose] To estimate the effect of Klapp method on idiopathic scoliosis in school students. [Subjects and Methods] A single-blind randomized clinical trial with 22 students randomly divided into intervention group (n=12) and inactive control group (n=10). Exercise protocol consisted of Klapp method, 20 sessions, three times a week for intervention group, and inactivity for control group. Dorsal muscle strength was measured by dynamometer; body asymmetries and gibbosity angles were measured by biophotogrammetry. Data were obtained by Generalized Estimated Equation, with 5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/92/jpts-29-001.PMC5300793.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5034907", "abstract": "Collagen cross-linking (CXL) is a relatively new conservative approach for progressive corneal ectasia, which is able to strengthen corneal tissue reforming new covalent bonds. Subjective and objective results following this method seem to be promising. In recent years, newer CXL protocols have been developed to perform more effective and less invasive procedures. The increasing diffusion of CXL in the corneal ectatic disease has increased the need to have actual indices regarding the efficacy of the treatment. Evaluation of demarcation line (DL), a transition zone between the cross-linked anterior corneal stroma and the untreated posterior corneal stroma, is considered a measurement of the depth of CXL treatment into the stroma. Some evidence in the literature emphasize that DL could be a measure of effectiveness of the CXL. On the contrary, some authors believe that the “the deeper, the better” principle is rather a simplistic approach for interpreting the clinical importance of the corneal stromal DL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/5a/opth-10-1803.PMC5034907.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4321202", "abstract": "Under certain conditions, groups of people may (collectively) make better judgments than experts. Galton connected this phenomenon to the phrase vox populi in a 1907 paper. Arguably, an example of the phenomenon may be found in recent stabilization of the frequency of antidepressant use, following decades of increases. There is no evidence that a change in physi-cian behaviour has caused this stabilization. The stable frequency more likely reflects decisions made by thousands of individual people based on their personal experiences. This may provide a statement from the vox populi on an optimal frequency of antidepressant use in contemporary populations under current conditions, a topic that has eluded the consensus of experts. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/05/CPEMH-11-1.PMC4321202.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3355624", "abstract": "Viruses encode viral suppressors of RNA silencing (VSRs) to counteract RNA silencing, a major antiviral defense response in plants. Recent studies indicate a role of virus-derived siRNAs in manipulating the expression of specific host genes and that certain plant viral movement proteins (MPs) can act as viral enhancers of RNA silencing (VERs) by stimulating the spread of silencing between cells. This suggests that viruses have evolved complex responses capable to efficiently hijack the host RNA silencing machinery to their own advantage. We draw here a dynamic model of the interaction of plant viruses with the silencing machinery during invasion of the host. The model proposes that cells at the spreading front of infection, where infection starts from zero and the VSR levels are supposedly low, represent potential sites for viral manipulation of host gene expression by using virus- and host-derived small RNAs. Viral MPs may facilitate the spread of silencing to produce a wave of small RNA-mediated gene expression changes ahead of the infection to increase host susceptibility. When experimentally ascertained, this hypothetical model will call for re-defining viral movement and the function of viral MPs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6d/d2/fpls-03-00010.PMC3355624.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5216150", "abstract": "Nilotinib is a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive leukemias. An elevation of the pancreatic enzyme level is one of the major adverse events associated with nilotinib, but whether or not nilotinib induces symptomatic pancreatitis remains to be elucidated. The cases of two chronic myeloid leukemia patients treated with nilotinib who developed symptomatic acute pancreatitis on the third and fifth day of nilotinib administration are herein presented. Since both patients had no other etiologies for pancreatitis, nilotinib was considered to be the causal agent. The withdrawal of nilotinib resulted in a prompt recovery. These cases underline the importance of recognizing pancreatitis as a possible adverse event associated with nilotinib. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7a/5f/1349-7235-55-3495.PMC5216150.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4672143", "abstract": " Background. Since most tuberculosis (TB) cases in immigrants to British Columbia (BC), Canada, develop from latent TB infection (LTBI), treating immigrants for LTBI can contribute to the eradication of TB. However, adherence to LTBI treatment is a challenge that is influenced by knowledge and perceptions. This research explores Chinese immigrants' knowledge and perceptions towards LTBI in Greater Vancouver. Methods. This mixed methods study included a cross-sectional patient survey at BC's Provincial TB clinics and two focus group discussions (FGDs) with Chinese immigrants. Data from FGDs were coded and analyzed in Simplified Chinese. Codes, themes, and selected quotes were then translated into English. Results. The survey identified a mean basic knowledge score: 40.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/67/8a/PMC4672143.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4387319", "abstract": "A tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), albeit rare, can be a life-threatening condition that requires prompt identification and treatment. Pulmonary contamination and restriction of proper nutrition are common, unfortunate consequences of untreated TEFs and are often the causes of mortality in this population. In our patient, a history of laryngeal malignancy along with symptoms of chest pain and cough with ingestion of liquids, even without evidence of aspiration pneumonia, appropriately prompted investigation for potential TEF. Initial imaging through barium swallow identified the TEF, and the patient underwent treatment with endoclips by endoscopy with bronchoscopic assistance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/58/JCHIMP-5-26715.PMC4387319.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3597912", "abstract": "Sodium is the principal solute in the extracellular compartment and the major component of serum osmolality. In normal persons in the steady state, sodium homeostasis is achieved by a balance between the dietary intake and the urinary output of sodium, whereas in intermittent hemodialysis patients, sodium balance depends on dietary intake and sodium removal during hemodialysis. Thus, the main goal of hemodialysis is to remove precisely the amount of sodium that has accumulated during the interdialytic period. Sodium removal during hemodialysis occurs via convective ( 78", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/33/ebp-10-1.PMC3597912.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5192290", "abstract": " Background. Understanding the knowledge and awareness of blood donation among potential blood donors in the population, like young people, and the associated attitudes and practices is important. Methodology. This was a cross-sectional study whereby a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information from the consenting participants. Results. A total of 422 participants were enrolled. Their mean age was 24.2 (SD 3.6) years. Of the 422, 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/87/4c/PMC5192290.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5363789", "abstract": "Background We established a patient-oriented biobank, BioBank Japan, with information on approximately 200,000 patients, suffering from any of 47 common diseases. This follow-up survey focused on 32 diseases, potentially associated with poor vital prognosis, and collected patient survival information, including cause of death. We performed a survival analysis for all subjects to get an overview of BioBank Japan follow-up data. Methods A total of 141,612 participants were included. The survival data were last updated in 2014. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed after categorizing subjects according to sex, age group, and disease status. Relative survival rates were estimated using a survival-rate table of the Japanese general population. Results Of 141,612 subjects (56.48", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/9b/main.PMC5363789.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2854804", "abstract": "The basic mechanisms underlying the formation of coated vesicles are now defined in considerable detail. This article highlights recent developments in our understanding of the problem of exporting large macromolecular cargo such as procollagen from the endoplasmic reticulum and discusses the implications that this has for cell and tissue organisation and human disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2b/30/1757-594X-0001-0000000065.PMC2854804.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4762303", "abstract": "Surgical resection of lips is a relatively rare procedure. A defective lip may cause the patient to feel socially vulnerable as well as functionally handicapped and the defect will influence the patient's self-esteem and body image. Patients with labial defects also experience speech problems along with drying and crusting of the tissues in the area of defect. The lip and cheek provide a valve mechanism for speech. Rehabilitation of patients with this type of surgery creates numerous challenges for both the surgical and the maxillofacial prosthetic teams. The goals of prosthetic treatment include regaining favorable speech and restoration of esthetics. This case report presents a 65-year-old woman who was referred for restoration of her lost lip. This case paper describes a quick and simple method of positioning magnets with lip prosthesis attached to maxillary denture and thus esthetics and speech of the patient is restored. Use of retention magnets simplify the clinical and laboratory phase retains the denture and makes it stable and comfortable for the patient. The advent of magnets has enhanced the dental practitioner's capabilities with a remarkably improved potential for increasing prosthesis stability and preserving tissue.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/9a/JIPS-15-187.PMC4762303.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5370305", "abstract": "According to the central limit theorem, the means of a random sample of size, n, from a population with mean, µ, and variance, σ2, distribute normally with mean, µ, and variance, . Using the central limit theorem, a variety of parametric tests have been developed under assumptions about the parameters that determine the population probability distribution. Compared to non-parametric tests, which do not require any assumptions about the population probability distribution, parametric tests produce more accurate and precise estimates with higher statistical powers. However, many medical researchers use parametric tests to present their data without knowledge of the contribution of the central limit theorem to the development of such tests. Thus, this review presents the basic concepts of the central limit theorem and its role in binomial distributions and the Student's t-test, and provides an example of the sampling distributions of small populations. A proof of the central limit theorem is also described with the mathematical concepts required for its near-complete understanding.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/04/kjae-70-144.PMC5370305.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4014961", "abstract": "Abstract During the past 10 years, a global pandemic of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) attributed to diabetes mellitus has changed the therapeutic strategies based on landmark trials that have shown that diabetic micro‐ and macrovascular complications might be preventable. However, the remaining risk of the progression of diabetic kidney disease to ESRD is still high, despite newly introduced anti‐diabetic, antihypertensive and dyslipidemic drugs in the 21st century. Here, we show the importance of targeting remission and regression of microalbuminuria in type 2 diabetic patients. To achieve the remission and regression of microalbuminuria, physicians have revised the management strategy of diabetic patients and have to act immediately. Early detection of microalbuminuria with continuous screening, the use of renin–angiotensin system blockades, and targets for HbA1c of <7.35", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/88/PMC4014961.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5367410", "abstract": "Severe thrombocytopenia during or after the course of Zika virus infection has been rarely reported. We report 7 cases of severe thrombocytopenia and hemorrhagic signs and symptoms in Guadeloupe after infection with this virus. Clinical course and laboratory findings strongly suggest a causal link between Zika virus infection and immune-mediated thrombocytopenia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3a/93/PMC5367410.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3262603", "abstract": "Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive type of breast cancer that is clinically defined as lacking estrogen and progesterone receptors, as well as being ERBB2 (HER-2) negative. Without specific therapeutic targets, TNBC carries a worse prognosis than other types of breast cancer in the absence of therapy. Research has now further differentiated breast cancer into subtypes based on genetic expression patterns. One of these subtypes, basal-like, frequently overlaps with the clinical picture of TNBC. Additionally, both TNBC and basal-like breast cancer link to BRCA mutations. Recent pharmaceutical advances have created a class of drugs, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, which are showing potential to effectively treat these patients. The aim of this paper is to summarize the basis behind PARP inhibitors and update the current status of their development in clinical trials for the treatment of TNBC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/2e/PMC3262603.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3687260", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To establish minimal clinically important difference (MCID) scores representing the smallest detectable change in quality of life (QOL), using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Generic Core and Diabetes Module among youth with diabetes and their parents, and to identify demographic and clinical correlates of QOL change over 1 year. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Participants in the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study aged >5 years and parents of youth aged <18 years completed PedsQL surveys at their initial and 12-month study visits. MCIDs for each PedsQL module were calculated using one standard error of measurement. Demographic and clinical characteristics associated with QOL change were identified through multiple linear and logistic regression analyses. RESULTS The sample comprised 5,004 youth (mean age, 12.5 ± 4.7 years; mean diabetes duration, 3.4 ± 3.7 years). Of 100 possible points, PedsQL total score MCIDs for youth with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively, were Generic Core, 4.88, 6.27 (parent) and 4.72, 5.41 (youth); Diabetes Module, 4.54, 6.06 (parent) and 5.27, 5.96 (youth). Among 1,402 youth with a follow-up visit, lower baseline QOL, male sex, private insurance, having type 1 diabetes, longer diabetes duration, and better glycemic control predicted improvements in youth- and parent-reported PedsQL total scores over 1 year. Clinically meaningful (≥1 MCID) improvements in total score for at least one PedsQL module were predicted by private insurance, lower BMI, and lower A1C at baseline. CONCLUSIONS These diabetes-specific reference points to interpret clinically meaningful change in PedsQL scores can be used in clinical care and research for youth with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/12/1891.PMC3687260.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3369409", "abstract": "Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a serious disease that not only affects quality of life but can also have a significant effect on patient survival. The treatment for PSC is primarily supportive with the aim of controlling cholestatic symptoms and preventing complications. Ursodeoxycholic acid may induce biochemical improvements in affected patients; however, long-term pediatric studies to determine its possible benefits in young patients are lacking. Thus, the treatment of pediatric PSC remains a significant clinical challenge. We describe a patient with PSC and undetermined colitis who was treated with a combination of a steroid, salazosulfapyridine, and a probiotic. This treatment provided benefits both for PSC and the undetermined colitis. These findings suggest that bacterial flora and gut inflammation are closely associated with the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease-related PSC. Suppression of bowel inflammation and maintenance of bacterial homeostasis may be important for treating PSC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/6c/crg-0006-0249.PMC3369409.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5094645", "abstract": "Aim of the database The Danish Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Register (DMSTR) serves as a clinical quality register, enabling the health authorities to monitor the quality of the disease-modifying treatment, and it is an important data source for epidemiological research. Study population The DMSTR includes all patients with multiple sclerosis who had been treated with disease-modifying drugs since 1996. At present, more than 8,400 patients have been registered in this database. Data are continuously entered online into a central database from all sites in Denmark at start and at regular visits. Main variables Include age, sex, onset year and year of the diagnosis, basic clinical information, and information about treatment, side effects, and relapses. Descriptive data Notification is done at treatment start, and thereafter at every scheduled clinical visit 3 months after treatment start, and thereafter every 6 months. The longitudinally collected information about the disease activity and side effects made it possible to investigate the clinical efficacy and adverse events of different disease-modifying therapies. Conclusion The database contributed to a certain harmonization of treatment procedures in Denmark and will continue to be a major factor in terms of quality in clinical praxis, research and monitoring of adverse events, and plays an important role in research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/97/clep-8-549.PMC5094645.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2901610", "abstract": "We describe the case of an 86-year-old man presenting with clinical symptoms suggestive of Temporal Arteritis. The evolution of the case prompted extensive work-up, including temporal artery and kidney biopsy. Based on the clinical and pathological findings, a diagnosis of ANCA-negative granulomatous necrotizing vasculitis involving the small-, medium-, and large-size vessels was made. The patient was treated with prednisone and cyclophosphamide, which was later switched to rituximab. The patient remained asymptomatic under this regimen and stabilization of his kidney function was achieved.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8c/f8/PMC2901610.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2943159", "abstract": "Adequate control of comorbidity has long been recognized as a critical challenge in clinical epidemiology. Comorbidity scales reduce information about coexistent disease to a single index that is easy to comprehend and statistically efficient. These are the main advantages of an index over incorporating each disease into an analysis as an individual variable. Many study populations have a low prevalence of subjects with high comorbidity scores, so it is common to combine subjects with some score above a threshold into a single open-ended category. This paper examines the impact of collapsing comorbidity scores into these categories. It shows analytically and by synthetic example that collapsing the high-end categories of a comorbidity scale changes the pattern of effect of comorbidity. Furthermore, collapsing the high-end categories biases analyses that control for comorbidity as a confounder or analyze modification of an exposure’s effect by comorbidity. Each of these results specific to comorbidity scoring derives from more general epidemiologic principles. The appeal of collapsing categories to facilitate interpretation and statistical analysis may be offset by misleading results. Analysts should assure the uniformity of outcome risk in collapsed categories, informed by judgment and possibly statistical testing, or use analytic methods, such as restriction or spline regression, which can achieve similar goals without sacrificing the validity of results.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/9e/PMC2943159.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4235503", "abstract": "Background Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is an autosomal dominant neurovisceral inherited disorder due to a defect in the heme biosynthesis pathway. Misdiagnosis of the porphyrias is not uncommon. Case report We present a case of a 26-year-old female with suspected acute cholecystitis, mental status changes, and seizures. Biochemical and molecular investigations confirmed the diagnosis of AIP by findings of elevated urinary porphobilinogen, 5-aminolevulinic acid, and total porphyrins. DNA molecular testing showed a novel heterozygous mutation (c. 760delC p.L254X) in the exon11 of the HMBS gene. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a misdiagnosis of AIP presenting with acute cholecystitis. Conclusion Clinicians are alerted to consider the possibility of AIP in an adult presenting with an acute abdomen, features of cholecystitis, and neuropsychiatric manifestations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/3e/ndt-10-2135.PMC4235503.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3869916", "abstract": "Background Quality of life (QL) can be defined as the individual’s perception of their own well-being. Aphasia is the most important potential consequence of stroke and has a profound effect on a patient’s life, causing emotional distress, depression, and social isolation, due to loss of language functions. Aims To draw up a QL questionnaire for aphasics (QLQA) focusing particularly on difficulties in interpersonal relationships and on the loss of independence as a result of language disorders. We reported the results of a psychometric evaluation of this measure. Moreover, we experimentally focused on the differences in QLQA between patients affected only by neurological motor impairment and hemiparetic patients with aphasia (PWA) in order to verify the specific role of aphasia on QL. We also explored if the QLQA is sensitive to the severity of aphasia and to the time elapsing from the stroke. Methods A total of 146 consecutive PWA and 37 control subjects were enrolled to evaluate the reliability (internal consistency and test–retest reliability) and validity of the QLQA, using standard psychometric methods. Patients were divided into acute (within 3 months since stroke) and chronic (beyond 3 months) groups, and into mild and severe according to the severity of aphasia. The experimental group of only acute PWA was compared to control subjects, with right hemispherical lesion and without aphasia in QLQA total and partial scores. Results The QLQA had good internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Acute and chronic PWA and mild and severe ones differed in QLQA total, communication, and autonomy subscales. No differences were found in psychological condition. Between aphasic and control patients, significant differences were found in all QLQA subscales. Conclusion The QLQA is a valid measure of QL in PWA, contributing to a better distinction between severe and mild aphasia, and it is sensitive also to the variations in QL depending on the time interval from stroke.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/82/be/ndt-10-027.PMC3869916.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4045300", "abstract": "Commercially available dietary products advertised to promote weight loss are an underresearched but heavily purchased commodity in the United States. Despite only limited evidence, interest in dietary supplements continues to increase. This work uniquely summarizes the current evidence evaluating the efficacy of several over-the-counter thermogenic products for their effects on resting energy expenditure. Currently, there is some evidence suggesting dietary products containing select ingredients can increase energy expenditure in healthy young people immediately following consumption (within 6 hours). It is unclear if supplement-induced increases in metabolic rate provide additional benefit beyond that provided by dietary constituents that contain similar ingredients. It is also unclear if dietary supplements are effective for weight loss in humans.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/62/PMC4045300.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4851507", "abstract": "Background: We wanted to systematically review the available evidence to evaluate the drug adherence in elderly with polypharmacy living at home. Methods: We performed a literature search using MEDLINE, ISI Web of Science, ProQuest, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Springer Link, Sage Journals and CINAHL. We used the following terms: Medication Adherence, Medication Compliance, Polypharmacy, and Elderly. The search was limited to English-language articles. We included only clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analysis and cross-sectional studies. Results: A total of seven articles were included in this systematic review after applying the search strategy. Six studies dealt with the prevalence of medication adherence and its correlates in patients aged 65 years or more with polypharmacy. Two studies dealt with the effect of various interventions on medication adherence in patients aged 65 years or more with polypharmacy. Conclusion: The available literature on the polypharmacy and drug adherence in elderly living at home is scarce and further studies are needed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6f/e7/MSM-28-129.PMC4851507.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4434065", "abstract": "Objectives The use of Internet in the health domain is becoming a major worldwide trend. Millions of citizens are searching online health information and also publishing content about their health. Patients are engaging with other patients in online communities using different types of social media. The boundaries between mobile health, social media, wearable, games, and big data are becoming blurrier due the integration of all those technologies. In this paper we provide an overview of the major research challenges with the area of health social media. Methods We use several study cases to exemplify the current trends and highlight future research challenges. Results Internet is exploding and is being used for health purposes by a great deal of the population. Social networks have a powerful influence in health decisions. Given the lack of knowledge on the use of health social media, there is a need for complex multidisciplinary research to help us understand how to use social networks in favour of public health. A bigger understanding of social media will give health authorities new tools to help decision-making at global, national, local, and corporate level. Conclusions There is an unprecedented amount of data that can be used in public health due the potential combination of data acquired from mobile phones, Electronic Health Records, social media, and other sources. To identify meaningful information from those data sources it is not trial. Moreover, new analytics tools will need to be developed to analyse those sources of data in a way that it can benefit healthcare professionals and authorities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7a/9e/hir-21-67.PMC4434065.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5295247", "abstract": "Abstract. Sitosterolemia is a rare, autosomal recessively inherited disorder of lipid metabolism caused by mutations in the “ATP-binding cassette, subfamily G” member 5 and 8 proteins (encoded by the ABCG5 and ABCG8 genes, respectively), which play critical roles in the intestinal and biliary excretion of plant sterols. We report the clinical features and treatment outcomes of an 18-month-old Japanese girl with sitosterolemia, who presented with multiple linear and intertriginous xanthomas around the joint areas. Serum lipid analyses revealed elevated levels of total cholesterol (T-Chol: 866 mg/dL), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C: 679 mg/dL), and plant sterols (sitosterol: 24.6 mg/dL, campesterol: 19.2 mg/dL, stigmasterol: 1.8 mg/dL). Compound heterozygous mutations (p.R419H and p.R389H) were identified in ABCG5. The patient was placed on a low cholesterol/low plant sterol diet and treated with colestimide (a bile acid sequestrant) and ezetimibe (an NPC1L1 inhibitor). Serum T-Chol and LDL-C levels decreased to normal within 2 mo, and plant sterol levels decreased by 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/0c/cpe-26-017.PMC5295247.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4017718", "abstract": "We investigated the characteristics of Chinese SLE patients by analyzing the association between specific autoantibodies and clinical manifestations of 2104 SLE patients from registry data of CSTAR cohort. Significant (P < 0.05) associations were found between anti-Sm antibody, anti-rRNP antibody, and malar rash; between anti-RNP antibody, anti-SSA antibody, and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH); between anti-SSB antibody and hematologic involvement; and between anti-dsDNA antibody and nephropathy. APL antibody was associated with hematologic involvement, interstitial lung disease, and a lower prevalence of oral ulcerations (P < 0.05). Associations were also found between anti-dsDNA antibody and a lower prevalence of photosensitivity, and between anti-SSA antibody and a lower prevalence of nephropathy (P < 0.05). Most of these findings were consistent with other studies in the literature but this study is the first report on the association between anti-SSA and a lower prevalence of nephropathy. The correlations of specific autoantibodies and clinical manifestations could provide clues for physicians to predict organ damages in SLE patients. We suggest that a thorough screening of autoantibodies should be carried out when the diagnosis of SLE is established, and repeated echocardiography annually in SLE patients with anti-RNP or anti-SSA antibody should be performed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/63/PMC4017718.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3658503", "abstract": "Eighteen organic compounds were present in growing onion bulbs cultivar Giza 6 infected with P. aeruginosa, but only fourteen of them are present in dry infected onion bulbs; however, four compounds were missing in dry onion. The missing compounds in dry infected onion bulbs are pantolactone, 4,5-dihydro-4,5-dimethylfuran-2(3H)-one, myristic acid, and linoleic acid. All of them were detected in growing onion (living cell) during Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, and it is hypothesized that it may be produced by plants and act as defence system. Pantolactone and myristic acid were selected to explore their effects on growth and virulence factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Exogenous application of pantolactone and myristic acid significantly inhibited pyocyanin production, protease, and lipase and polygalacturonase activity but did not have any significant effects on bacterial growth. The inhibition of virulence factors without reduction in bacterial growth may be providing strong support that these chemical molecules are general quorum sensing inhibitors than an antibacterial effect. Disruption of quorum sensing of pathogen indicates that this new approach has potential in fighting bacterial infections in human and plants.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/b6/PMC3658503.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3181834", "abstract": "Fear is an adaptation to danger, but excessive fear underlies diverse forms of mental anguish and pathology. One neural site linked to a sense of adversity is the amygdala, and one neuropeptide, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), is localized within the central nucleus of the amygdala. Glucocorticoids enhance the production of CRH in this region of the brain, resulting in increased attention to external events and, when sustained for longer periods of times, perhaps contributing to anxious depression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/49/58/DialoguesClinNeurosci-8-407.PMC3181834.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4295313", "abstract": "Background: Acinetobacter baumannii is one of the major causes of nosocomial infections and is resistant to most available antibiotics. Aminoglycosides remain as drugs of choice for treatment of Acinetobacter infections yet resistance to aminoglycosides has increased in the recent years. Objectives: The present study investigated the prevalence of genes encoding aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes in A. baumannii strains isolated from patients of Tabriz city, northwest of Iran. Materials and Methods: A total of 103 Acinetobacter isolates were collected from Imam Reza Hospital of Tabriz University of medical sciences. Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of the isolates to different antimicrobial agents including cephalosporins, gentamicin, amikacin, tobramycin, colistin and polymyxin, were evaluated by the disc diffusion method. The frequency of aminoglycoside modifying enzymes encoding genes aacC1, aphA6, aadA1 and aadB was analyzed by the PCR method. Results: Antimicrobial susceptibility analysis showed that the highest resistance was towards beta−lactam antibiotics including cephalosporins whereas the highest sensitivity was observed towards colistin (77", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d7/7a/jjm-07-11924.PMC4295313.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4632555", "abstract": "Ureteral stent exchange is usually performed under both fluoroscopic and cystoscopic guidance. We experienced two cases with retrograde placement of metallic ureteral stent via urethra under fluoroscopic guidance. When patients with double-J ureteral stent (DJUS)have symptom and want to change DJUS to metallic stent, fluoroscopic guided transurethral placement of ureteral metallic stent is a good option as alternative of cystoscopic procedure or percutaneous procedure through percutaneous nephrostomy tract.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9a/22/iranjradiol-12-03-20269.PMC4632555.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2846341", "abstract": "Proteomic approaches have proven powerful at identifying large numbers of proteins, but there are fewer reports of functional characterization of proteins in biological tissues. Here, we describe an experimental approach that fractionates proteins released from human platelets, linking bioassay activity to identity. We used consecutive orthogonal separation platforms to ensure sensitive detection: (a) ion-exchange of intact proteins, (b) SDS-PAGE separation of ion-exchange fractions and (c) HPLC separation of tryptic digests coupled to electrospray tandem mass spectrometry. Migration of THP-1 monocytes in response to complete or fractionated platelet releasate was assessed and located to just one of the forty-nine ion-exchange fractions. Over 300 proteins were identified in the releasate, with a wide range of annotated biophysical and biochemical properties, in particular platelet activation, adhesion, and wound healing. The presence of PEDF and involucrin, two proteins not previously reported in platelet releasate, was confirmed by western blotting. Proteins identified within the fraction with monocyte promigratory activity and not in other inactive fractions included vimentin, PEDF, and TIMP-1. We conclude that this analytical platform is effective for the characterization of complex bioactive samples.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/ba/PMC2846341.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3432397", "abstract": " Background. Within the developing world, many personal, sociocultural, and economic factors cause delayed patient presentation, a prolonged interval from initial symptom discovery to provider presentation. Understanding these barriers to care is crucial to optimizing interventions that pre-empt patient delay. Methods. A systematic review was conducted querying: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, J East, CAB, African Index Medicus, and LiLACS. Of 763 unique abstracts, 122 were extracted for full review and 13 included in final analysis. Results. Studies posed variable risks of bias and produced mixed results. There is strong evidence that lower education level and lesser income status contribute to patient delay. There is weaker and, sometimes, contradictory evidence that other factors may also contribute. Discussion. Poverty emerges as the underlying common denominator preventing earlier presentation in these settings. The evidence for sociocultural variables is less strong, but may reflect current paucity of high-quality research. Conflicting results may be due to heterogeneity of the developing world itself. Conclusion. Future research is required that includes patients with and without delay, utilizes a validated questionnaire, and controls for potential confounders. Current evidence suggests that interventions should primarily increase proximal and affordable healthcare access and secondarily enhance breast cancer awareness, to productively reduce patient delay.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d6/22/PMC3432397.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4241647", "abstract": "Cystic and bile duct dysplasia is a rare histological finding, especially when found in the absence of an underlying malignancy. We report a patient who presented with jaundice and weight loss. Clinical and cytological evidence suggested a diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma and the patient underwent a pancreatico-duodenectomy. Histopathological examination suggested a diagnosis of two foci of biliary dysplasia: cystic duct and lower common bile duct. Fifteen months later, the patient re-presented with signs of obstructive jaundice and biliary sepsis. Although CT scan revealed images highly indicative of metastatic disease, repeated biopsies failed to confirm this. Eventually a liver biopsy did reveal moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma, however oncological interventional was no longer appropriate and the patient was managed palliatively. This case report focuses on the current understanding of progression of biliary dysplasia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/35/crg-0008-0304.PMC4241647.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3047759", "abstract": "Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) shows many pathological features, and it varies architecturally and cytologically. There have been many reports and discussions of the morphological features of HCC. A 63-year-old man was found to have a solitary tumor in liver segment 7 that was diagnosed as HCC. A partial resection of liver segment 7 was performed. Microscopically, the tumor lesion showed a moderately differentiated HCC. There was also a lesion with foamy histiocyte-like cells corresponding to the white lesion in the face of the cut tumor. Immunohistochemical staining showed that they were negative for CD68, S-100, vimentin, and HMB-45. The cytoplasm itself was negative on periodic acid Schiff (PAS) and Sudan staining. Without immunohistological analysis, it is difficult to distinguish this HCC variant from clear cell carcinoma or metastases of renal cell carcinoma. It is important to recognize this type as a specific cytological variant of HCC that requires confirmation by immunohistochemistry. This report describes the case of a patient with a morphologically distinctive pattern of HCC with prominent cell cytoplasm that had a foamy histiocyte-like appearance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of this HCC variant.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/96/crg0004-0286.PMC3047759.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3245091", "abstract": "Proteins are flexible molecules that undergo structural changes to function. The Protein Data Bank contains multiple entries for identical proteins determined under different conditions, e.g. with and without a ligand molecule, which provides important information for understanding the structural changes related to protein functions. We gathered 839 protein structural pairs of ligand-free and ligand-bound states from monomeric or homo-dimeric proteins, and constructed the Protein Structural Change DataBase (PSCDB). In the database, we focused on whether the motions were coupled with ligand binding. As a result, the protein structural changes were classified into seven classes, i.e. coupled domain motion (59 structural changes), independent domain motion (70), coupled local motion (125), independent local motion (135), burying ligand motion (104), no significant motion (311) and other type motion (35). PSCDB provides lists of each class. On each entry page, users can view detailed information about the motion, accompanied by a morphing animation of the structural changes. PSCDB is available at http://idp1.force.cs.is.nagoya-u.ac.jp/pscdb/.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0c/08/gkr966.PMC3245091.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3170018", "abstract": "With the global trend towards an increasingly ageing population, it is clear that nurses need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to fulfil significant roles in responding to future health and support needs. This paper reports the results of a survey that aimed to identify and evaluate the attitudes of nurses, healthcare assistants, and nursing students towards older people. The survey was undertaken in a rural county in the Republic of Ireland. It is reassuring that in our study, we found that these healthcare workers hold positive attitudes towards older people. In addition, we found that study to a higher level at university appears to mitigate towards holding more positive attitudes, and this is an important finding in light of the shift towards nursing as an all-graduate profession. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/42/5f/PMC3170018.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5005536", "abstract": "Intestinal microbiota is highly involved in host physiology and pathology through activity of the microbiome and its metabolic products. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common form of arthritis characterized by articular cartilage destruction and osteophyte formation. Although various person-level risk factors, such as age, sex, and obesity, have been proposed for the pathogenesis of OA, the underlying links between these person-level factors and OA are still enigmatic. Based on the current understanding in the crosstalk between intestinal microbiota and these risk factors, intestinal microbiota could be considered as a major hidden risk factor that provides a unifying mechanism to explain the involvement of these person-level risk factors in OA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e5/cd/PMC5005536.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3351973", "abstract": "The Gasperini syndrome is a very rare brainstem disease characterized by the typical combination of ipsilateral lesions of the cranial nerves V-VII and dissociated contralateral hemihypesthesia, whereas both contralateral and ipsilateral hypacusis was described. Since the first description in 1912, only a few cases of this crossed brainstem syndrome were published so far. Pontine infarction and bleedings were the reported causes of the syndrome. Here we report a 44-year-old man with the classical Gasperini syndrome due to pontine demyelination in multiple sclerosis. The clinical findings were correlated with changes on MRI. The present case shows that classical crossed brainstem syndromes are topological terms not invariably associated with brainstem ischemia in particular vascular areas and may contribute to the differential diagnosis of peripheral facial nerve palsy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/32/4d/PMC3351973.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1874676", "abstract": "Many experimental findings on heterogeneity, flexibility, and plasticity of tissue stem cells are currently challenging stem cell concepts that assume a cell intrinsically predefined, unidirectional differentiation program. In contrast to these classical concepts, nonhierarchical self-organizing systems provide an elegant and comprehensive alternative to explain the experimental data. Here we present the application of such a self-organizing concept to quantitatively describe the hematopoietic stem cell system. Focusing on the analysis of individual-stem-cell fates and clonal dynamics, we particularly discuss implications of the theoretical results on the interpretation of experimental findings. We demonstrate that it is possible to understand hematopoietic stem cell organization without assumptions on unidirectional developmental hierarchies, preprogrammed asymmetric division events or other assumptions implying the existence of a predetermined stem cell entity. The proposed perspective, therefore, changes the general paradigm of thinking about stem cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2c/50/PMC1874676.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3307667", "abstract": "Optic atrophy has often been reported in children with biotinidase deficiency. The visual prognosis is usually poor. This report is of a 6-year-old boy with an early onset of biotinidase deficiency who presented with acute profound visual loss in both eyes. Fundoscopy revealed swollen discs in both eyes, and the imaging was consistent with bilateral optic neuritis. He was treated with systemic corticosteroid, and commenced on oral biotin. The final visual outcome was promising.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c7/89/PMC3307667.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4882473", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to assess the risk of disordered eating (DE) among female athletes in lean and non-lean sports using the ATHLETE survey. The ATHLETE survey is divided into six different constructs, and a high score indicates a high risk for DE. Eighty-three varsity female athletes from eight Campbell University sports teams completed the survey and a medical history form anonymously. The sports were divided into sports that traditionally have a high risk for DE (lean sports) and those with a low risk (non-lean sports). The lean sports included: cheerleading, cross country/track and field, swimming, and volleyball. The non-lean sports included: basketball, golf, soccer, and softball. The total mean score of the ATHLETE survey for the lean sports was 100.1 ± 17.4, compared to the non-lean sports scoring 90.1 ± 16.9, p = 0.011. The two constructs that showed significant difference between lean and non-lean sports were Social Pressure on Body Shape (lean: 12.2 ± 3.9, non-lean: 9.4 ± 4.6, p = 0.005) and Team Trust (lean: 7.4 ± 3.3, non-lean: 5.6 ± 2.2, p = 0.004). The results indicate that lean sports exhibited a higher risk for development of DE compared to athletes participating in non-lean sports. It appears that the primary influence of DE in these female athletes came from external social pressures that may therefore dictate their exercise and nutritional habits.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a7/09/PMC4882473.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4918294", "abstract": "Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive tumor and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. The mortality rate remains high despite many advances in treatment. HCC is frequently diagnosed late in its course due to lack of classical symptoms at earlier stages. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has emerged as an important diagnostic tool for the diagnostic evaluation, staging, and treatment of gastrointestinal tract disorders. EUS-guided fine needle aspiration has been a valuable addition to EUS by being able to obtain tissue under direct visualization. Here, we review the potential role of EUS in the diagnosis and management of HCC. EUS seems to be a safe and reliable alternative method for obtaining tissue for diagnosis of liver cancer, especially for lesions that are inaccessible by traditional methods. EUS could play an important role in the diagnosis and management of HCC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/76/jhc-2-143.PMC4918294.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4004925", "abstract": "Urine glucose screening at school implemented in Japan is useful for detecting childhood type 2 diabetes at the early stage of the disease. Most patients detected by the screening can improve hyperglycemia and reduce overweight within one to three months by changing lifestyle with diet and exercise. For patients who are unable to alter their lifestyle and for those who have hyperglycemia despite maintaining these changes, a variety of oral hypoglycemic agents, including α-glucosidase inhibitors, sulfonylureas, glitinides, metformin, thiazolidenediones, and insulin are available. Metformin is considered to be the most effective oral agent as monotherapy for Japanese young persons with type 2 diabetes, because most of them are obese with insulin resistance. The approach to insulin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes often differs from that most frequently used in patients with type 1 diabetes. Adjustment of the dose of insulin at each injection using sliding scales or algorithms is not required in most cases. In some cases, combination therapy with metformin and sulfonylureas or use of insulin is more effective for stabilization of blood glucose values. Therapeutic means for childhood type 2 diabetes should be variable depending on each patient’s characteristics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/b1/cpe-14-001.PMC4004925.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2722246", "abstract": "The telomeres of most eukaryotes are characterized by guanine-rich repeats synthesized by the reverse transcriptase telomerase. Complete loss of telomerase is tolerated for several generations in most species, but modestly reduced telomerase levels in human beings are implicated in bone marrow failure, pulmonary fibrosis and a spectrum of other diseases including cancer. Differences in telomerase deficiency phenotypes between species most likely reflect a tumour suppressor function of telomeres in long-lived mammals that does not exist as such in short-lived organisms. Another puzzle provided by current observations is that family members with the same genetic defect, haplo-insufficiency for one of the telomerase genes, can present with widely different diseases. Here, the crucial role of telomeres and telomerase in human (stem cell) biology is discussed from a Darwinian perspective. It is proposed that the variable phenotype and penetrance of heritable human telomerase deficiencies result from additional environmental, genetic and stochastic factors or combinations thereof.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/e8/emboj2009172a.PMC2722246.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4432426", "abstract": "Fabry disease (FD) is a rare, X-linked inherited disease of glycosphingolipid metabolism due to deficiency of lysosomal α-galactosidase A activity. Scarce activity of lysosomal α-galactosidase A results in progressive accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) within lysosomes, believed to trigger a flow of cellular changes that lead to the clinical manifestation of the disease. We present a 23-year-old male with renal variant of FD who was born from non-affected parents, which, to the best of our knowledge, has not been reported in the literature so far. In conclusion, FD can occur due to sporadic GLA gene mutation. Pure renal involvement might be associated with progressive disease which leads to end-stage renal disease within a short period. Physicians should have a high index of suspicion for FD especially in male cases with unexplained renal failure that are slowly progressive in nature, even in the absence of a clear hereditary component. Early renal biopsy is recommended in any progressive renal impairment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/cf/sfs119.PMC4432426.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3362946", "abstract": "Childhood obesity is currently one of the most prevailing and challenging public health issues among industrialized countries and of international priority. The global prevalence of obesity poses such a serious concern that the World Health Organization (WHO) has described it as a “global epidemic.” Recent literature suggests that the genesis of the problem occurs in the first years of life as feeding patterns, dietary habits, and parental feeding practices are established. Obesity prevention evidence points to specific dietary factors, such as the promotion of breastfeeding and appropriate introduction of nutritious complementary foods, but also calls for attention to parental feeding practices, awareness of appropriate responses to infant hunger and satiety cues, physical activity/inactivity behaviors, infant sleep duration, and family meals. Interventions that begin at birth, targeting multiple factors related to healthy growth, have not been adequately studied. Due to the overwhelming importance and global significance of excess weight within pediatric populations, this narrative review was undertaken to summarize factors associated with overweight and obesity among infants and toddlers, with focus on potentially modifiable risk factors beginning at birth, and to address the need for early intervention prevention.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1f/1d/PMC3362946.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3046641", "abstract": "Desmoid tumors are non-metastatic mesenchymal tumors with an aggressive local growth. Depending on the anatomic location, morbidity varies. We report of a patient with a desmoid tumor of the right shoulder which was treated in our department by surgical excision, plastic-surgical wound closure and postoperative adjuvant radiation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/bf/GMS-09-04.PMC3046641.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3964896", "abstract": "To test the hypothesis that increased expression of proinflammatory cytokine high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) in epiretinal membranes and vitreous fluid from patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy and in retinas of diabetic rats plays a pathogenetic role in mediating diabetes-induced retinal neuropathy. Retinas of 1-month diabetic rats and HMGB1 intravitreally injected normal rats were studied using Western blot analysis, RT-PCR and glutamate assay. In addition, we studied the effect of the HMGB1 inhibitor glycyrrhizin on diabetes-induced biochemical changes in the retina. Diabetes and intravitreal injection of HMGB1 in normal rats induced significant upregulation of HMGB1 protein and mRNA, activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), cleaved caspase-3 and glutamate; and significant downregulation of synaptophysin, tyrosine hydroxylase, glutamine synthetase, and glyoxalase 1. Constant glycyrrhizin intake from the onset of diabetes did not affect the metabolic status of the diabetic rats, but it significantly attenuated diabetes-induced upregulation of HMGB1 protein and mRNA, activated ERK1/2, cleaved caspase-3, and glutamate. In the glycyrrhizin-fed diabetic rats, the decrease in synaptophysin, tyrosine hydroxylase, and glyoxalase 1 caused by diabetes was significantly attenuated. These findings suggest that early retinal neuropathy of diabetes involves upregulated expression of HMGB1 and can be ameliorated by inhibition of HMGB1.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d3/f2/PMC3964896.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3059526", "abstract": "Purpose Vitrification technology presents new opportunities for preservation of embryo derived stem cells without first establishing a viable ESC line. This study tests the feasibility of cryopreserving ICM cells using vitrification. Materials and Methods ICMs from mouse embryos were isolated and vitrified in HSV straws or on cryoloops. Upon warming, the vitrified ICMs were cultured and observed for attachment and morphology. Colonies were passaged every 3–6 days. ICMs and ICM-derived ESC colonies were tested for expression of stem cell specific markers. Results ICMs vitrified on both the cryoloop and the HSV straw had high survival rates. ICM derived ESCs remained undifferentiated for several passages and demonstrated expression of typical stem cell markers; SSEA-1, Sox-2, Oct 4 and alkaline phosphatase. Conclusion This is the first report on successful vitrification of isolated ICMs and the subsequent derivation of ESC colonies. Vitrification of isolated ICMs is a novel approach for preservation of the “stem cell source” material.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/75/5e/10815_2010_Article_9500.PMC3059526.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4691609", "abstract": "Malaria is endemic to Lombok Island, Indonesia. One approach to suppress malaria spread is to eliminate anopheline larvae in their habitat and the environmentally safe agent is bacteria, that is, Bacillus sphaericus. However, there is no information regarding local isolate of B. sphaericus that is toxic to mosquito larvae from Lombok. The aims of the study were to isolate B. sphaericus from soil in areas close to beach surrounding Lombok Island and to test their toxicity against 3rd instar Anopheles aconitus larvae. Soil samples were collected from 20 different sampling locations from Lombok Island and homogenized with sterile physiological salt solution. Suspension was heat-shocked at 80°C for 30 minutes and then spread onto antibiotic-supplemented NYSM solid medium. Colonies grown were characterized and subjected to initial toxicity test against anopheline larvae. Isolates with more than 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/36/4e/PMC4691609.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4714260", "abstract": "Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a drug-related fatal disease. Extensive necrosis of the epidermis can lead to serious complications. This report describes two cases of TEN, associated with deflazacort (DFZ), in two boys, aged 4 years and 14 years, with nephrotic syndrome (NS). The 14-year-old male teenager received DFZ following NS relapse. After 17 days, pruritic papules appeared on the lower extremities. Another case involved a 4-year-old boy receiving DFZ and enalapril. After a 41-day DFZ treatment period, erythematous papules appeared on the palms and soles. Within 3 days, both boys developed widespread skin lesions (>50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/1b/main.PMC4714260.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5076692", "abstract": "The effect of transport on serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp), Fibrinogen and white blood cells (WBC) was evaluated in 10 ewes and 10 beef cattle. All animals were transported by road for 6 h over a distance of about 490 km with an average speed of 80 km/h. Blood samples, collected via jugular venepuncture, were obtained before and after transport as well as after 12, 24 and 48 h rest time. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance showed a statistically significant effect of sampling time on SAA, Hp, and WBC in ewes and beef cattle. Based on these results, Hp and SAA levels, together with WBC, may be useful indicators of animal health and welfare and in predicting the risk assessment in meat inspection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/9e/ijfs-2014-4-4210.PMC5076692.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3075989", "abstract": "Objectives: The aim of this finite elemental stress analysis study was to evaluate the effect of cavity shape and hybrid layer on the stress distribution of the mandibular premolar tooth under occlusal loading. Methods: The mandibular premolar tooth was selected as the model based on the anatomical measurements suggested by Wheeler. Four different mathematical models were evaluated: 1) a saucer-shaped non-carious cervical lesion restored with a composite without a hybrid layer, 2) a saucer-shaped non-carious cervical lesion restored with a composite with a hybrid layer, 3) a wedge-shaped non-carious cervical lesion restored with a composite without a hybrid layer, and 4) a wedge-shaped non-carious cervical lesion restored with a composite with a hybrid layer. A 200 N force was applied from the buccal tubercule and central fossa of the premolar tooth. The findings were drawn by the SAPLOT program. Results: In models 2 and 4, the output showed that a hybrid layer acts as a stress absorber. Additionally, when the cavity shape was changed, the stress distribution was very different. Conclusions: Cavity shape and hybrid layer play an important role in stress distribution in cervical restorations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f2/fb/PMC3075989.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5136426", "abstract": "Introduction: Plasmapheresis also known as a therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is extracorporeal procedure by which individual components of plasma that are harmful or blood cells can be removed from organism by using a blood separation technology. Aim: To present the results of the implementation of plasmapheresis in children in the Department of Pediatric Intensive Care of Pediatric Clinic, Clinical center of Sarajevo University, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Patients and methods: Research (period from December 2011 to June 2016) analyzed 66 plasmapheresis (11 patients–6 plasmapheresis per patient). Results: Out of 11 patients, 7 (63.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/c7/MA-70-332.PMC5136426.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2925098", "abstract": "Amyloid β (Aβ) annular protofibrils (APFs) have been described where the structure is related to that of β barrel pore-forming bacterial toxins and exhibits cellular toxicity. To investigate the relationship of Aβ APFs to disease and their ultrastructural localization in brain tissue, we conducted a pre-embedding immunoelectron microscopic study using anti-annular protofibril antiserum. We examined brain tissues of young- and old-aged amyloid precursor protein transgenic mice (APP23), neprilysin knockout APP23 mice, and nontransgenic littermates. αAPF-immunoreactions tended to be found (1) on plasma membranes and vesicles inside of cell processes, but not on amyloid fibrils, (2) with higher density due to aging, APP transgene, and neprilysin deficiency, and (3) with higher positive rate at synaptic compartments in aged APP23, especially in neprilysin knockout APP23 mice. These findings imply that APFs are distinct from amyloid fibrils, interact with biological membranes, and might be related to synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer model mouse brains.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/17/d5/PMC2925098.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2786191", "abstract": "Recently, in the compressed sensing framework we found that a two-dimensional interior region-of-interest (ROI) can be exactly reconstructed via the total variation minimization if the ROI is piecewise constant (Yu and Wang, 2009). Here we present a general theorem charactering a minimization property for a piecewise constant function defined on a domain in any dimension. Our major mathematical tool to prove this result is functional analysis without involving the Dirac delta function, which was heuristically used by Yu and Wang (2009).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fd/9f/PMC2786191.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2910291", "abstract": "LEOPARD syndrome (LS) is a rare hereditary disorder in Asian countries. This syndrome consists of multiple systemic abnormalities. In particular, characteristic cardiovascular effects in LS may include variable clinical manifestations from benign to life-threatening courses. The cardiac effects of this syndrome consist of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), pulmonary stenosis (PS), coronary artery dilatation and electrocardiogram(ECG) abnormalities. Since there are few LS patients who have undergone a complete cardiovascular evaluation, the nature and clinical prognosis of cardiovascular abnormalities in this syndrome remain uncertain. Also, there have been few reports on therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular abnormalities in LS. Here we describe a case of LS who presented with multiple cardiovascular problems and underwent successful surgical and medical treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/6c/kcj-40-339.PMC2910291.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4713914", "abstract": "A 37-year-old man was referred to Division of Nephrology for a new renal cystic lesion that was found on ultrasonography. Four years prior to presentation, a percutaneous renal biopsy had been performed. Computed tomography scan showed a 4.4-cm-sized renal artery pseudoaneurysm in the left kidney. Selective renal angiography revealed a pseudoaneurysm in the left lower pole of the kidney. The renal pseudoaneurysm was successfully embolized with coil. Follow-up Doppler ultrasonography showed no internal blood flow into the aneurysmal sac. His renal function remained stable after coil embolization.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fd/20/main.PMC4713914.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3737617", "abstract": "Aim: To evaluate the utility of a mobile device to detect and assess intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) on head computed tomographys (CT) performed in the emergency setting. Materials and Methods: 100 head CT scans were randomly selected from our emergency radiology database and anonymized for patient demographics and clinical history. The studies were independently interpreted by two experienced radiologists in a blinded manner, initially on a mobile device (iPad, Apple computers) and subsequently, at an interval of one week, on a regular desktop workstation. Evaluation was directed towards detection, localization and characterization of hemorrhage. The results were assessed for accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value. Statistical significance was ascertained using Fisher's exact test. Results: 27 of the examinations were positive for ICH, of which 11 had multiple hemorrhages. Of these there were 17 subdural, 18 intraparenchymal, 8 subarachnoid, 4 intraventricular and 2 extradural hemorrhages. In 96 of the studies there was complete concurrence between the iPad and desktop interpretations for both radiologists. Of 49 hemorrhages, 48 were accurately detected on the iPad by one of the radiologists. In the remaining case, a tiny intraventricular hemorrhage was missed by both radiologists on the iPad as well as on the workstation, indicating that the miss was more likely related to the very small size of the hemorrhage than the viewer used. Conclusion: We conclude that in the emergency setting, a mobile device with appropriate web-based pictue archiving and communication system (PACS) is effective in the detection of intracranial hemorrhage present on head CT.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/1f/IJRI-23-4.PMC3737617.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5220221", "abstract": "Capacity of adult neural and muscle tissues to respond to external Electrical Stimulation (ES) is the biological basis for the development and implementation of mobility impairment physiotherapy protocols and of related assistive technologies, e.g, Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES). All body tissues, however, respond to electrical stimulation and, indeed, the most successful application of FES is electrical stimulation of the heart to revert or limit effects of arrhythmias (Pace-makers and Defibrillators). Here, we list and discuss results of FES current research activities, in particular those presented at 2016 Meetings: the PaduaMuscleDays, the Italian Institute of Myology Meeting, the 20th International Functional Electrical Stimulation Society (IFESS) conference held in Montpellier and the Vienna Workshop on FES. Several papers were recently e-published in the European Journal of Translational Myology as reports of meeting presentations. All the events and publications clearly show that FES research in Europe and beyond is alive and promisses translation of results into clinical management of a very large population of persons with deficiencies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/3e/ejtm-2016-4-6369.PMC5220221.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2698070", "abstract": "Objective To compare phase-inversion sonography during the liver-specific phase of contrast enhancement using a microbubble contrast agent with conventional B-mode sonography for the detection of VX2 liver tumors. Materials and Methods Twenty-three rabbits, 18 of which had VX2 liver tumor implants, received a bolus injection of 0.6 g of Levovist (200 mg/ml). During the liver-specific phase of this agent, they were evaluated using both conventional sonography and contrast-enhanced phase-inversion harmonic imaging (CE-PIHI). Following sacrifice of the animals, pathologic analysis was performed and the reference standard thus obtained. The conspicuity, size and number of the tumors before and after contrast administration, as determined by a sonographer, were compared between the two modes and with the pathologic findings. Results CE-PIHI demonstrated marked hepatic parenchymal enhancement in all rabbits. For VX2 tumors detected at both conventional US and CE- PIHI, conspicuity was improved by contrast-enhanced PIHI. On examination of gross specimens, 52 VX2 tumors were identified. Conventional US correctly detected 18 of the 52 (34.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/90/kjr-4-124.PMC2698070.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3312269", "abstract": "Current guidelines recommend that all cirrhotic patients should undergo screening endoscopy at diagnosis to identify patients with varices at high risk of bleeding who will benefit from primary prophylaxis. This approach places a heavy burden upon endoscopy units and the repeated testing over time may have a detrimental effect on patient compliance. Noninvasive identification of patients at highest risk for oesophageal varices would limit investigation to those most likely to benefit. Upper GI endoscopy is deemed to be the gold standard against which all other tests are compared, but is not without its limitations. Multiple studies have been performed assessing clinical signs and variables relating to liver function, variables relating to liver fibrosis, and also to portal hypertension and hypersplenism. Whilst some tests are clearly preferable to patients, none appear to be as accurate as upper GI endoscopy in the diagnosis of oesophageal varices. The search for noninvasive tests continues.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e4/3d/PMC3312269.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2876874", "abstract": "Linear leak currents have been implicated in the regulation of neuronal excitability, generation of neuronal and network oscillations, and network state transitions. Yet, few studies have directly tested the dependence of network oscillations on leak currents or explored the role of leak currents on network activity. In the oscillatory pyloric network of decapod crustaceans neuromodulatory inputs are necessary for pacemaker activity. A large subset of neuromodulators is known to activate a single voltage-gated inward current IMI, which has been shown to regulate the rhythmic activity of the network and its pacemaker neurons. Using the dynamic clamp technique, we show that the crucial component of IMI for the generation of oscillatory activity is only a close-to-linear portion of the current-voltage relationship. The nature of this conductance is such that the presence or the absence of neuromodulators effectively regulates the amount of leak current and the input resistance in the pacemaker neurons. When deprived of neuromodulatory inputs, pyloric oscillations are disrupted; yet, a linear reduction of the total conductance in a single neuron within the pacemaker group recovers not only the pacemaker activity in that neuron, but also leads to a recovery of oscillations in the entire pyloric network. The recovered activity produces proper frequency and phasing that is similar to that induced by neuromodulators. These results show that the passive properties of pacemaker neurons can significantly affect their capacity to generate and regulate the oscillatory activity of an entire network, and that this feature is exploited by neuromodulatory inputs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/95/a3/PMC2876874.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4882460", "abstract": "Little is known about the oxygen cost of caring for infants and older adults. Many people perform these activities so it is useful to know the energy cost and if the activities are of sufficient intensity to contribute to meeting physical activity recommendations. The purpose of this study was to assess the oxygen cost of four care-related activities in the Compendium of Physical Activities. Nineteen participants (n = 10 women, n = 9 men; Age = 36.4 ± 13.6 y; ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/3d/PMC4882460.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2662330", "abstract": "Nuclear images are very often used to study the functionality of some organs. Unfortunately, these images have bad contrast, a weak resolution, and present fluctuations due to the radioactivity disintegration. To enhance their quality, physicians have to increase the quantity of the injected radioactive material and the acquisition time. In this paper, we propose an alternative solution. It consists in a software framework that enhances nuclear image quality and reduces statistical fluctuations. Since these images are modeled as the realization of a Poisson process, we propose a new framework that performs variance stabilizing of the Poisson process before applying an adapted Bayesian wavelet shrinkage. The proposed method has been applied on real images, and it has proved its performance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/61/1c/PMC2662330.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4603728", "abstract": "Multiple myeloma is a malignancy involving plasma cell proliferation within the bone marrow. Survival of patients diagnosed with myeloma has significantly improved in the last decade, following the approval of novel agents. Despite great strides achieved in the management of multiple myeloma, it is still considered an incurable disease as the majority of patients relapse after initiation of therapy. Additionally, the duration of response generally decreases with an increasing number of therapy lines. The need to overcome resistance to therapy dictates research into more potent agents and those with novel mechanisms of action. A therapeutic option for relapsed/refractory myeloma includes histone deacetylase inhibition. Various histone deacetylase inhibitors, including the newly approved panobinostat, are currently under evaluation in this setting. Panobinostat for multiple myeloma is used in combination with other potent therapeutic agents, such as proteasome inhibitors and steroids. Ongoing research evaluating other panobinostat-containing regimens will provide additional insight into its place in myeloma management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/6d/jbm-6-269.PMC4603728.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3727206", "abstract": "Exposure to chronic stress is a reliable predictor of depressive disorders, and social stress is a common ethologically relevant stressor in both animals and humans. However, many animal models of depression were developed in males and are not applicable or effective in studies of postpartum females. Recent studies have reported significant effects of chronic social stress during lactation, an ethologically relevant and effective stressor, on maternal behavior, growth, and behavioral neuroendocrinology. This manuscript will describe this chronic social stress paradigm using repeated exposure of a lactating dam to a novel male intruder, and the assessment of the behavioral, physiological, and neuroendocrine effects of this model. Chronic social stress (CSS) is a valuable model for studying the effects of stress on the behavior and physiology of the dam as well as her offspring and future generations. The exposure of pups to CSS can also be used as an early life stress that has long term effects on behavior, physiology, and neuroendocrinology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/60/jove-76-50324.PMC3727206.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3707566", "abstract": "Background: In April 2010, revised Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission guidelines were implemented in South Africa, advising fast-tracked lifelong highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) initiation at a higher CD4 count (≤350 cells per microliter). This study describes the impact of these changes on the management of pregnant women who initiated HAART at Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of all women who initiated HAART in pregnancy at the Tygerberg Hospital between January 2008 and December 2010. Year cohorts were compared. Results: Two hundred and fifty HIV-infected women were included in the study and stratified by HAART initiation year: 2008:N = 82, 2009:N = 71, 2010:N = 97. There were no differences between the groups in age or parity. Median booking CD4 count was 155 cells per microliter [interquartile range (IQR) 107–187], 157 cells per microliter (IQR 104–206) and 208 cells per microliter (IQR 138–270), respectively (P < 0.001). Median gestation at HAART initiation was 31 weeks (IQR 27–35), 30 weeks (IQR 26–34), and 25 weeks (IQR 21–31; P < 0.001). HIV transmission rates were 3/65 (4.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9b/26/qai-63-234.PMC3707566.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4297034", "abstract": " Introduction Elderly individuals with bilateral hearing loss often do not use hearing aids in both ears. Because of this, dichotic tests to assess hearing in this group may help identify peculiar degenerative processes of aging and hearing aid selection.  Objective To evaluate dichotic hearing for a group of elderly hearing aid users who did not adapt to using binaural devices and to verify the correlation between ear dominance and the side chosen to use the device.  Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study involving 30 subjects from 60 to 81 years old, of both genders, with an indication for bilateral hearing aids for over 6 months, but using only a single device. Medical history, pure tone audiometry, and dichotic listening tests were all completed.  Results All subjects (100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/31/PMC4297034.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4681948", "abstract": "[Purpose] To investigate the intra- and inter-rater reliability of the cross-sectional area (CSA) and muscle thickness (MT) of the longus colli according to the inward pressure of an ultrasonography (US) probe (0.5 and 1 kg). [Subjects] Thirteen subjects (11 males and 2 females; age, 23.1 ± 2.9 years) were recruited via convenience sampling of university students. [Methods] Real-time US measurements of the CSA and MT of the longus colli were recorded. Repeated US measurements using a standard protocol were performed on the same day 1 hour apart to assess intra- and inter-rater reliability. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC; 2, 1) were used to determine the intra- and inter-rater reliability of the CSA and MT measurements. [Results] This study demonstrated that the US measurements (0.5 and 1 kg) of the CSA and MT of the longus colli give reliable and consistent results. [Conclusion] Based on these results, a consistent inward pressure of the probe is needed to ensure precise US measurement of the longus colli muscle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c5/3c/jpts-27-3579.PMC4681948.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3466868", "abstract": "Background Radial movement of the arterial wall is a well-known indicator of the mechanical properties of arteries in arterial disease examinations. In the present study, two different motion estimation methods, based on the block-matching and maximum-gradient algorithms, were examined to extract the radial displacement of the carotid artery wall. Methods Each program was separately implemented to the same axial consecutive ultrasound images of the carotid artery of 10 healthy men, and the radial displacement waveform of this artery was extracted during two cardiac cycles. The results of the two methods were compared using the linear regression and Bland-Altman statistical analyses. The maximum and mean displacements traced by the block-matching algorithm were compared with the same parameters traced by the maximum-gradient algorithm. The frame numbers in which the maximum displacement of the wall occurred were compared too. Results There were no significant differences between the maximum and the mean displacements traced by the block-matching algorithm and the same parameters traced by the maximum-gradient algorithm according to the pair t-test analysis (p value > 0.05). There was a significant correlation between the radial movement of the common carotid artery measured with the block-matching and maximum-gradient methods (with a correlation coefficient of 0.89 and p value < 0.05). The Bland-Altman analysis results confirmed a good agreement between the two methods in measuring the radial movement, with a mean difference and limits of agreement of 0.044 ± 0.038. The results showed that both methods found the maximum displacement occurring in the same frame. Conclusion Both block-matching and maximum-gradient algorithms can be used to extract the radial displacement of the carotid artery wall and in addition, with respect to the pixel size as error, the same results can be obtained.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3d/ed/jthc-6-72.PMC3466868.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4220582", "abstract": "This work illustrates a comparative study on the applicability of the basic heterogeneous calcium oxide catalyst prepared from waste mollusks and crabs shells (MS and CS, resp.) in the transesterification of waste cooking oil collected from seafood restaurants with methanol for production of biodiesel. Response surface methodology RSM based on D-optimal deign of experiments was employed to study the significance and interactive effect of methanol to oil M : O molar ratio, catalyst concentration, reaction time, and mixing rate on biodiesel yield. Second-order quadratic model equations were obtained describing the interrelationships between dependent and independent variables to maximize the response variable (biodiesel yield) and the validity of the predicted models were confirmed. The activity of the produced green catalysts was better than that of chemical CaO and immobilized enzyme Novozym 435. Fuel properties of the produced biodiesel were measured and compared with those of Egyptian petro-diesel and international biodiesel standards. The biodiesel produced using MS-CaO recorded higher quality than that produced using CS-CaO. The overall biodiesel characteristics were acceptable, encouraging application of CaO prepared from waste MS and CS for production of biodiesel as an efficient, environmentally friendly, sustainable, and low cost heterogeneous catalyst.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/69/PMC4220582.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4345632", "abstract": "Objective: To determine sensitivity and specificity of a standardized recombinant cell-based indirect immunofluorescence assay (RC-IFA) for anti-Tr antibodies in comparison to a reference procedure. Methods: Delta/Notch-like epidermal growth factor-related receptor (DNER) was expressed in HEK293 and used as a substrate for RC-IFA. HEK293 control cells expressing CDR2/Yo and CDR2L as well as mock-transfected HEK293 cells were used as controls. Serum samples from 38 patients with anti-Tr antibodies (33 with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration [PCD] and Hodgkin lymphoma), 66 patients with anti-Tr–negative PCD, 53 patients with Hodgkin lymphoma without neurologic symptoms, 40 patients with rheumatic diseases, and 42 healthy blood donors were tested for anti-DNER reactivity in the RC-IFA. In addition, RC-IFA results were compared to those from a commercial tissue-based IFA using monkey cerebellum. Results: Using the RC-IFA, anti-DNER was detected in all anti-Tr–positive patients but in none of the controls (sensitivity 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ff/e2/PMC4345632.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3075993", "abstract": "Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess school children’s feelings and attitudes toward their dentist. Methods: A questionnaire designed to evaluate children’s attitudes and preferences toward dentists was completed by 583 children (289 females, 294 males) with age range 9–12 years attending public schools. Results: 76", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/b8/PMC3075993.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3355266", "abstract": "Meta-analysis has proven a useful tool in genetic association studies. Allelic heterogeneity can arise from ethnic background differences across populations being meta-analyzed (for example, in search of common frequency variants through genome-wide association studies), and through the presence of multiple low frequency and rare associated variants in the same functional unit of interest (for example, within a gene or a regulatory region). The latter challenge will be increasingly relevant in whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing studies investigating association with complex traits. Here, we evaluate the performance of different approaches to meta-analysis in the presence of allelic heterogeneity. We simulate allelic heterogeneity scenarios in three populations and examine the performance of current approaches to the analysis of these data. We show that current approaches can detect only a small fraction of common frequency causal variants. We also find that for low-frequency variants with large effects (odds ratios 2–3), single-point tests have high power, but also high false-positive rates. P-value based meta-analysis of summary results from allele-matching locus-wide tests outperforms collapsing approaches. We conclude that current strategies for the combination of genetic association data in the presence of allelic heterogeneity are insufficiently powered.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/f9/ejhg2011274a.PMC3355266.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3892556", "abstract": " Background. Between July 2009 and September 2010, an outbreak of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii was detected in one critical care unit of a tertiary hospital in the Basque Country, involving 49 infected and 16 colonized patients. The aim was to evaluate the impact of environmental cleaning and systematic sampling from environmental objects on the risk of infection by MDR A. baumannii. Methods. After systematic sampling from environmental objects and molecular typing of all new MDR A. baumannii strains from patients and environmental isolates, we analyzed the correlation (Pearson's r) between new infected cases and positive environmental samples. The risk ratio (RR) of infection was estimated with Poisson regression. Results. The risk increased significantly with the number of positive samples in common areas (RR = 1.40; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/67/a6/PMC3892556.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3534263", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to validate the dose prescription defined to the gross tumor volume (GTV) 3D and 4D dose distributions of stereotactic radiotherapy for lung cancer. Treatment plans for 94 patients were generated based on computed tomography (CT) under free breathing. A uniform margin of 8 mm was added to the internal target volume (ITV) to generate the planning target volume (PTV). A leaf margin of 2 mm was added to the PTV. The prescription dose was defined such that 99", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d7/c8/rrs054.PMC3534263.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4706967", "abstract": "Tryptophan is an essential dietary amino acid that is necessary for protein synthesis, but also serves as the precursor for serotonin. However, in addition to these biological functions, tryptophan also serves as a precursor for the kynurenine pathway, which has neurotoxic (quinolinic acid) and neuroprotective (kynurenic acid) metabolites. Glucocorticoid hormones and inflammatory mediators, both of which are increased by stress, have been shown to bias tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway and away from serotonin synthesis; however, to date, there is no published data regarding the effects of stress on enzymes regulating the kynurenine pathway in a regional manner throughout the brain. Herein, we examined the effects of an acute psychological stress (120 min restraint) on gene expression patterns of enzymes along the kynurenine pathway over a protracted time-course (1–24 h post-stress termination) within the amygdala, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and medial prefrontal cortex. Time-dependent changes in differential enzymes along the kynurenine metabolism pathway, particularly those involved in the production of quinolinic acid, were found within the amygdala, hypothalamus, and medial prefrontal cortex, with no changes seen in the hippocampus. These regional differences acutely may provide mechanistic insight into processes that become dysregulated chronically in stress-associated disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7e/0c/PMC4706967.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3355929", "abstract": "Ewing sarcoma (ES) is the second most common bone tumor affecting primarily adolescents and young adults. Despite recent advances in biological understanding, intensification of chemotherapeutic treatments, and progress in local control with surgery and/or radiation therapy, patients with metastatic or recurrent ES continue to have a dismal prognosis with less than 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6f/5d/fonc-02-00002.PMC3355929.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3022729", "abstract": "Background The neurologic examination is a challenging component of the physical examination for medical students. In response, primarily based on expert consensus, medical schools have supplemented their curricula with standardized patient (SP) sessions that are focused on the neurologic examination. Hypothesis-driven quantitative data are needed to justify the further use of this resource-intensive educational modality, specifically regarding whether using SPs to teach the neurological examination effects a long-term benefit on the application of neurological examination skills. Methods This study is a cross-sectional analysis of prospectively collected data from medical students at Weill Cornell Medical College. The control group (n=129) received the standard curriculum. The intervention group (n=58) received the standard curriculum and an additional SP session focused on the neurologic examination during the second year of medical school. Student performance on the neurologic examination was assessed in the control and intervention groups via an OSCE administered during the fourth year of medical school. A Neurologic Physical Exam (NPE) score of 0.0 to 6.0 was calculated for each student based on a neurologic examination checklist completed by the SPs during the OSCE. Composite NPE scores in the control and intervention groups were compared with the unpaired t-test. Results In the fourth year OSCE, composite NPE scores in the intervention group (3.5±1.1) were statistically significantly greater than those in the control group (2.2±1.1) (p<0.0001). Conclusions SP sessions are an effective tool for teaching the neurologic examination. We determined that a single, structured SP session conducted as an adjunct to our traditional lectures and small groups is associated with a statistically significant improvement in student performance measured 2 years after the session.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/87/c1/MEO-16-5634.PMC3022729.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3484303", "abstract": "Uremic encephalopathy is a well-known disease with typical MR findings including bilateral vasogenic or cytotoxic edema at the cerebral cortex or basal ganglia. Involvement of the basal ganglia has been very rarely reported, typically occurring in uremic-diabetic patients. We recently treated a patient who had non-diabetic uremic encephalopathy with an atypical lesion distribution involving the supratentorial white matter, without cortical or basal ganglia involvement. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the second reported case of non-diabetic uremic encephalopathy with atypical MR findings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f6/3b/kjr-13-808.PMC3484303.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4929809", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome is associated with intellectual and physical features. CREBBP and EP300 are causative. Few cases of EP300 mutations are reported. We report a case with mild features of RSTS and EP300 mutation on exome sequencing. This illustrates the utility of exome sequencing to expand every genetic phenotype.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d0/ce/CCR3-4-696.PMC4929809.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4560329", "abstract": "Linear immunoglobulin A (IgA) bullous dermatosis (LABD) is an autoimmune mucocutaneous disease characterized by subepidermal blistering induced by IgA autoantibodies against several autoantigens in the basal membranous zone of the skin and mucosal tissue. Although diaminodiphenyl sulfone (DDS), also known as dapsone, is generally recognized as the first-line therapy for LABD, DDS can induce several severe side effects. We present a Japanese case of LABD with DDS-induced hemolytic anemia and alopecia. In the present case, the DDS-induced hemolytic anemia and hair loss made the DDS monotherapy difficult. When DDS is used in LABD patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA), hemolytic anemia is concealed by IDA. It is thus necessary to carefully and frequently examine the laboratory data to find the signs of DDS-induced hemolytic anemia. Even though there is no literature on DDS-induced alopecia, alopecia was reported as one of the side effects of DDS in an FDA report, and, in our case, hair loss was improved after reducing its dosage. We have to recognize that alopecia is one of the side effects of DDS and that careful management is needed in order not to overlook the adverse side effects of DDS when treating LABD patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c1/a5/cde-0007-0183.PMC4560329.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4025130", "abstract": "Objective This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) and its related risk factors in an appropriate sample of neonates in Shahroud, northeast Iran. Methods At this study, a random sample of 1000 neonates were selected of which 72 neonates were LBWs. We used univariate and multivariate logistic regression methods to evaluate the LBW risk factors in LBWs compared to normal weight infants. Findings 7.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/47/e4/IJPD-23-701.PMC4025130.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3488643", "abstract": "Objective We compared the radiological and clinical outcomes between patients who underwent posterior fixation alone and supplemented with fusion following the onset of thoracolumbar burst fractures. In addition, we also evaluated the necessity of posterolateral fusion for patients treated with posterior pedicle screw fixation. Methods From January 2007 to December 2009, 46 consecutive patients with thoracolumbar burst fracture were included in this study. On the basis of posterolateral fusion, we divided our patients into the non-fusion group and the fusion group. The radiological assessment was performed according to the Cobb's method, and results were obtained at immediately, 3, 6, 12 months after surgery. The clinical outcomes were evaluated using the modified Mcnab criteria at the final follow-up. Results The demographic data and the mean follow-up period were similar between the two groups. Patients of both groups achieved satisfactory clinical outcomes. The mean loss of kyphosis correction showed that patients of both groups experienced loss of correction with no respect to whether they underwent the posterolateral fusion. There was no significant difference in the degree of loss of correction at any time points of the follow-up between the two groups. In addition, we also compared the effect of fixed levels (i.e., short versus long segment) on loss of correction between the two groups and there was no significant difference. There were no major complications postoperatively and during follow-up period. Conclusion We suggest that posterolateral fusion may be unnecessary for patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures who underwent posterior pedicle screw fixation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/14/73/jkns-52-346.PMC3488643.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3948583", "abstract": "An approximate value of the diamagnetic anisotropy of the tubulin dimer, Δχ dimer, has been determined assuming axial symmetry and that only the α-helices and β-sheets contribute to the anisotropy. Two approaches have been utilized: (a) using the value for the Δχ α for an α-helical peptide bond given by Pauling (1979) and (b) using the previously determined anisotropy of fibrinogen as a calibration standard. The Δχ dimer ≈ 4 × 10−27 JT−2 obtained from these measurements are similar to within 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/23/PMC3948583.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4756005", "abstract": "[Purpose] To evaluate treatments with interferential current, hot pack, ultrasound therapy, stretching, strengthening and range-of-motion exercises, comparing between the right and left shoulders in terms of pain and functional capacity in patients with frozen shoulder. This was a retrospective study. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty-four patients (34 right side, 30 left side) were treated with interferential current and hot pack application for 20 min each, ultrasound therapy for 3 min, regular range-of-motion exercises, stretching exercises, strengthening with a Theraband in all directions and post-exercise proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques. All cases were evaluated with visual analogue scales for pain, passive and active range of motion, Constant score, and the shoulder disability questionnaire, at baseline and 7 and 12 weeks after baseline. [Results] Marked improvement was noted in all patients in both right and left sides after treatment, and at 7 and 12 weeks of follow-up compared with baseline. There was no significant difference between the right and left shoulder groups, in all outcome measures. [Conclusion] The combination of physical therapy, exercise, and manual techniques is effective in treating frozen shoulder. The location of the lesion in the right or left shoulder does not, in itself, affect the prognosis or treatment outcome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/76/jpts-28-207.PMC4756005.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4043427", "abstract": "Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the validity and reliability of the Thai version of the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU), when compared to the diagnoses made by delirium experts. Patients and methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted in both surgical intensive care and subintensive care units in Thailand between February–June 2011. Seventy patients aged 60 years or older who had been admitted to the units were enrolled into the study within the first 48 hours of admission. Each patient was randomly assessed as to whether they had delirium by a nurse using the Thai version of the CAM-ICU algorithm (Thai CAM-ICU) or by a delirium expert using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Results The prevalence of delirium was found to be 18.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/9c/cia-9-879.PMC4043427.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3811093", "abstract": "A significant proportion of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are referred to mental health centers due to the presence of challenging behaviors. Because challenging behaviors in children and adolescents with ASD often result from underlying social and communication difficulties and comorbid anxiety, traditional caregiver-mediated behavior intervention techniques developed for children with disruptive behavior disorders may need to be adapted for this population. Behavioral interventions that target communication skills, social skills, anxiety, and sensory responsiveness in children with ASD may be needed. Notably, while best practice necessitates the involvement of caregivers in treating children and adolescents with ASD, few randomized control studies have examined the effectiveness of caregiver-implemented interventions in reducing challenging behaviors. This review summarizes the current literature with regard to caregiver-mediated behavioral interventions for children with ASD, and suggests areas for intervention development and research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/98/b5/DialoguesClinNeurosci-15-225.PMC3811093.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3880694", "abstract": " Background. Smartphone medical applications have a major role to play in women's health with their roles being very broad, ranging from improving health behaviours to undertaking personalised tests. Objective(s). Using Medline, Web of Knowledge, and the PRISMA guidelines 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified, with mobile interventions being tested on 1603 females, in relation to key aspects of health. Using a similar systematic approach an iPhone database search identified 47 applications (apps) developed to improve women's health. Findings. Ten RCTs used text messaging or app interventions to support weight loss, with significant improvements being observed in eight studies. For other aspects of women's health RCTs are needed to determine possible health benefits. iPhone store data analysis identified that a substantial number of women's health apps did not have star ratings or feedback comments (68 and 49 per cent, resp.), raising concerns about their validity. Conclusion. Peer-review systems, supporting statements of evidence, or certification standards would be beneficial in maintaining the quality and credibility of future health-focused apps. Patient groups should also ideally be involved in the development and testing of mobile medical apps.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/15/b6/PMC3880694.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3548263", "abstract": "Personalized medicine promises that an individual's genetic information will be increasingly used to prioritize access to health care. Use of genetic information to inform medical decision making, however, raises questions as to whether such use could be inequitable. Using breast cancer genetic risk prediction models as an example, on the surface clinical use of genetic information is consistent with the tools provided by evidence-based medicine, representing a means to equitably distribute limited health-care resources. However, at present, given limitations inherent to the tools themselves, and the mechanisms surrounding their implementation, it becomes clear that reliance on an individual's genetic information as part of medical decision making could serve as a vehicle through which disparities are perpetuated under public and private health-care delivery models. The potential for inequities arising from using genetic information to determine access to health care has been rarely discussed. Yet, it raises legal and ethical questions distinct from those raised surrounding genetic discrimination in employment or access to private insurance. Given the increasing role personalized medicine is forecast to play in the provision of health care, addressing a broader view of what constitutes genetic discrimination, one that occurs along a continuum and includes inequitable access, will be needed during the implementation of new applications based on individual genetic profiles. Only by anticipating and addressing the potential for inequitable access to health care occurring from using genetic information will we move closer to realizing the goal of personalized medicine: to improve the health of individuals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/84/f3/ejhg2012149a.PMC3548263.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4536970", "abstract": "Tubular injury has a major etiological role in fibrosis. For many years, this relationship has been dominated by the perception that epithelial cells are transformed into myofibroblasts that proliferate and generate fibrotic matrix—the so-called epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Here we focus on mechanisms by which injury to the tubule results in fibrosis because of paracrine mechanisms. Specific injury to the proximal tubule results in inflammation, reversible injury, and adaptive repair if the insult is mild, self-limited in time, and occurs in a background of a normal kidney. Repeated injury, in contrast, leads to maladaptive repair with sustained tubule injury, chronic inflammation, proliferation of interstitial myofibroblasts, vascular rarefaction, interstitial fibrosis, and glomerular sclerosis. During the maladaptive repair process after the renal insult, many tubular cells become arrested in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. This results in activation of the DNA repair response with the resultant synthesis and secretion of pro-fibrotic factors. Pharmacologic interventions that enhance the movement through G2/M or facilitate apoptosis of cells that otherwise would be blocked in G2/M may reduce the development of fibrosis after kidney injury and reduce the progression of chronic kidney disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/62/PMC4536970.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3110497", "abstract": "Recently, researchers have measured hand movements en route to choices on a screen to understand the dynamics of a broad range of psychological processes. We review this growing body of research and explain how manual action exposes the real-time unfolding of underlying cognitive processing. We describe how simple hand motions may be used to continuously index participants’ tentative commitments to different choice alternatives during the evolution of a behavioral response. As such, hand-tracking can provide unusually high-fidelity, real-time motor traces of the mind. These motor traces cast novel theoretical and empirical light onto a wide range of phenomena and serve as a potential bridge between far-reaching areas of psychological science – from language, to high-level cognition and learning, to social cognitive processes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/c3/PMC3110497.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4568363", "abstract": " Purpose. To compare the loss of corneal endothelial cells after phacoemulsification according to different anterior chamber depths (ACDs). Methods. We conducted a prospective study on 135 eyes with senile cataracts. Eyes with nuclear density grades of 2 to 4 were divided into three groups according to ACD: ACD I, 1.5 < ACD ≤ 2.5 mm; ACD II, 2.5 < ACD ≤ 3.5 mm; or ACD III, 3.5 < ACD ≤ 4.5 mm. Intraoperative mean cumulative dissipated energy (CDE) was measured. Clinical examinations included central corneal thickness (CCT) and endothelial cell count (ECC) preoperatively and 2 months postoperatively. Results. There were no significant differences in CDE among the ACD groups (P > 0.05). Endothelial cell loss was significantly higher in ACD I than in ACD III in grades 3 and 4 cataract density groups 2 months after phacoemulsification (P < 0.05). There were also more changes in CCT in all of the cataract density groups in the ACD I group compared to the ACD II and III groups 2 months postoperatively, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions. Eyes with shallow ACDs, especially those with relatively hard cataract densities, can be vulnerable to more corneal endothelial cell loss in phacoemulsification surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c0/d3/PMC4568363.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5066412", "abstract": "Internal radioembolization with yttrium-90 is a promising treatment method, predominantly for liver tumors. However, the shifting of yttrium-90-loaded spherules into the arteries and veins that supply the duodenum and stomach, leading to ulceration, hemorrhage, perforation, and outlet obstruction of these organs, is one of the major undesirable consequences of this technique. We report a case of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) due to antropyloric stenosis with ulceration, edema, and inflammation following transarterial yttrium-90 treatment for a metastatic neuroendocrine tumor in a 58-year-old man. Stenting was used for palliation in this case. GOO improved after stenting and recovery of oral intake was permanent after stent removal.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/e8/ce-2015-149.PMC5066412.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3440945", "abstract": "This paper focuses on providing new results relating to the impacts of Diurnal variation, Vertical distribution, and Emission source on sulfur K-edge XANES spectrum of aerosol samples. All aerosol samples used in the diurnal variation experiment were preserved using anoxic preservation stainless cylinders (APSCs) and pressure-controlled glove boxes (PCGBs), which were specially designed to prevent oxidation of the sulfur states in PM10. Further investigation of sulfur K-edge XANES spectra revealed that PM10 samples were dominated by S(VI), even when preserved in anoxic conditions. The “Emission source effect” on the sulfur oxidation state of PM10 was examined by comparing sulfur K-edge XANES spectra collected from various emission sources in southern Thailand, while “Vertical distribution effects” on the sulfur oxidation state of PM10 were made with samples collected from three different altitudes from rooftops of the highest buildings in three major cities in Thailand. The analytical results have demonstrated that neither “Emission source” nor “Vertical distribution” appreciably contribute to the characteristic fingerprint of sulfur K-edge XANES spectrum in PM10.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9b/5e/PMC3440945.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2699447", "abstract": "The cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk)-cyclin D/retinoblastoma (pRb)/E2F cascade, which controls the G1/S transition of cell cycle, has been found to be altered in many neoplasias. Inhibition of this pathway by using, for example, selective Cdk4 inhibitors has been suggested to be a promising approach for cancer therapy. We hypothesized that appropriately radiolabeled Cdk4 inhibitors are suitable probes for tumor imaging and may be helpful studying cell proliferation processes in vivo by positron emission tomography. Herein, we report the synthesis and biological, biochemical, and radiopharmacological characterizations of two 124I-labeled small molecule Cdk4 inhibitors (8-cyclopentyl-6-iodo-5-methyl-2-(4-piperazin-1-yl-phenylamino)-8H-pyrido[2,3-d]-pyrimidin-7-one (CKIA) and 8-cyclopentyl-6-iodo-5-methyl-2-(5-(piperazin-1-yl)-pyridin-2-yl-amino)-8H-pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidin-7-one (CKIB)). Our data demonstrate a defined and specific inhibition of tumor cell proliferation through CKIA and CKIB by inhibition of the Cdk4/pRb/E2F pathway emphasizing potential therapeutic benefit of CKIA and CKIB. Furthermore, radiopharmacological properties of [124I]CKIA and [124I]CKIB observed in human tumor cells are promising prerequisites for in vivo biodistribution and imaging studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/63/07/PMC2699447.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5440835", "abstract": "Background Congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) affects thousands of children in the developing world because rubella vaccination is not routinely available in most of these countries. Among its many manifestations, congenital heart disease is life threatening. Case Details A 9-month-old infant presented with whitish lesions over her left eye. She was evaluated with echocardiography that revealed peripheral pulmonary stenosis and patent ductus arteriosus. She had severe acute malnutrition and clinically confirmed congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). There was no available serologic test to confirm the diagnosis. Conclusion This case was presented to demonstrate typical dual features of CRS by echocardiography and to emphasize the benefit of vaccination to prevent deleterious complications from congenital rubella syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/75/8a/PMC5440835.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5365287", "abstract": "Objective Stents are widely used in coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms, but on occasion, a microcatheter must traverse a stented segment of artery (so-called trans-cell technique) to select an aneurysm, or double stenting may necessary. In such situations, microguidewire passage and microcatheter delivery through a tortuous stented parent artery may pose a technical challenge. Described herein is a microguidewire looping technique to facilitate endovascular navigation in these circumstances. Methods To apply this technique, the microguidewire tip is looped before entering the stented parent artery and then advanced distally past the stented segment, with the loop intact. Rounding of the tip prevents interference from stent struts during passage. A microcatheter is subsequently passed into the stented artery for positioning near the neck of aneurysm, with microguidewire assistance. The aneurysm is then selected, steering the microcatheter tip (via inner microguidewire) into the dome. Results This technique proved successful during coil embolization of nine saccular intracranial aneurysms (internal carotid artery [ICA], 6; middle cerebral artery, 2; basilar tip, 1), performing eight trans-cell deliveries and one additional stenting. Selective endovascular embolization was enabled in all patients, resulting in excellent clinical and radiologic outcomes, with no morbidity or mortality directly attributable to microguidewire looping. Conclusion Microguidewire looping is a reasonable alternative if passage through a stented artery is not feasible by traditional means, especially at paraclinoid ICA sites.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/e4/jkns-60-2-262.PMC5365287.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5080204", "abstract": "[Purpose] Pushing behavior is classically described as a disorder of body orientation in the coronal plane. Most interventions for pushing behavior have focused on correcting the deviation in vertical perception. However, pushing behavior seems to involve erroneous movements associated with excessive motor output by the non-paretic limbs and trunk. The present study aimed to inhibit muscular hyper-activity by placing the non-paretic limbs and trunk in the prone position. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects of the present study were 3 acute stroke patients with severe pushing behavior. The study consisted of the following 3 phases: baseline, intervention, and follow-up. In addition to conventional therapy, patients received relaxation therapy in the prone position for 10 minutes a day over 2 days. The severity of pushing behavior was assessed using the scale for contraversive pushing, and truncal balance was evaluated using the trunk control test. These assessments were performed before and after the baseline phase, and after the intervention and follow-up phases. [Results] At the baseline phase, both scores were poor. Both scores improved after the intervention and follow-up phases, and all the patients could sit independently. [Conclusion] Relaxation therapy in the prone position might ameliorate pushing behavior and impaired truncal balance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/2b/jpts-28-2690.PMC5080204.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4844568", "abstract": "An 18-year-old left-handed male harbored intractable medial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) underwent fractionated gamma knife surgery (GKS) instead of open surgery, considering the mental retardation and diffuse cerebral dysfunction. GKS treatment parameters were: target volume, 8.8 cm3; total marginal dose, 24 Gy in 3 fractionations at the 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/d5/en-25-93.PMC4844568.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3476928", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE Because of the increasing incidence and prevalence of diabetes as a leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in the aging population, we estimated the expected life-years (LYs) saved from successful prevention of ESRD in elderly patients with diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We conducted a population-based cohort study using the National Health Insurance Research Database. We identified all incidences of ESRD in the individuals >65 years of age who were receiving maintenance hemodialysis (N = 24,243) from the registry files of catastrophic illnesses in Taiwan from 1 July 1997 to 31 December 2005. We then retrospectively searched the database to determine whether there had been a diagnosis of diabetes in these cases. After the exclusion of individuals with malignancy (n = 3,423), we extrapolated the survival rates through the end of 2006 using the Monte Carlo method. Using the data of preventable ESRD cases due to diabetes and expected years of life lost (EYLL) in each age stratum, we further estimated the expected LYs saved from successful prevention of ESRD in elderly patients with diabetes. RESULTS The estimated average EYLL was 10.6–5.8 and 12.3–7.3 years for diabetic males and females, respectively, aged 65–79 years. In total, 5,430.1 LYs and 10,177 LYs could be saved by the successful prevention of ESRD in male and female elderly patients with diabetes, respectively, in a single year. CONCLUSIONS The LYs saved by successful prevention of ESRD in elderly patients with diabetes in a single year are substantial and deserve special attention, especially in elderly females.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ce/2f/2279.PMC3476928.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5361994", "abstract": "Case summary A 16-year-old neutered female domestic shorthair cat was referred for chronic history of reluctance to jump, stiffness of the tail and lower back pain. Mild pelvic limb ataxia, reduced perianal reflex and lumbosacral discomfort were present on neurological examination. On magnetic resonance imaging, a well-defined rounded structure of 3 mm in diameter was identified on the right dorsal aspect of the epidural space at L7–S1, causing displacement of the cauda equina. The lesion was hyperintense to spinal cord parenchyma on T2-weighted images and hypointense on T1-weighted images, consistent with a fluid-filled structure. A Lumbosacral dorsal laminectomy was performed. A clear fluid-containing structure was identified between the right L7 nerve root and the cauda equina. Following surgical excision, histopathology confirmed the cystic nature of the lesion and revealed thick disorganised sheaths of fibrocollagenous tissue and flattened mesenchymal cells lining the luminal part of the cyst wall. A diagnosis of intraspinal ganglion cyst was made. The cat recovered uneventfully. Seven months after surgery euthanasia was performed for unrelated reasons; no neurological deficits were present. Relevance and novel information This is the first reported case of intraspinal ganglion cyst in a cat. Intraspinal extradural cysts should be considered among other differential diagnoses for cats with lumbosacral myelopathy/radiculopathy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/af/0c/10.1177_2055116915604875.PMC5361994.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4105815", "abstract": "The purpose of this review was to demonstrate magnetic resonance (MR) arthrography findings of anatomy, variants, and pathologic conditions of the superior glenohumeral ligament (SGHL). This review also demonstrates the applicability of a new MR arthrography sequence in the anterosuperior portion of the glenohumeral joint. The SGHL is a very important anatomical structure in the rotator interval that is responsible for stabilizing the long head of the biceps tendon. Therefore, a torn SGHL can result in pain and instability. Observation of the SGHL is difficult when using conventional MR imaging, because the ligament may be poorly visualized. Shoulder MR arthrography is the most accurately established imaging technique for identifying pathologies of the SGHL and associated structures. The use of three dimensional (3D) volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (VIBE) sequences produces thinner image slices and enables a higher in-plane resolution than conventional MR arthrography sequences. Therefore, shoulder MR arthrography using 3D VIBE sequences may contribute to evaluating of the smaller intraarticular structures such as the SGHL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/c9/kjr-15-508.PMC4105815.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3713310", "abstract": "The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends healthful food choices; however, some geographic areas are limited in the types of foods they offer. Little is known about the role of convenience stores as viable channels to provide healthier foods in our “grab and go” society. The purposes of this study were to (1) identify foods offered within convenience stores located in two Bexar County, Texas, ZIP Codes and (2) compare the availability and cost of ADA-recommended foods including beverages, produce, grains, and oils/fats. Data were analyzed from 28 convenience store audits performed in two sociodemographically diverse ZIP Codes in Bexar County, Texas. Chi-squared tests were used to compare food availability, and t-tests were used to compare food cost in convenience stores between ZIP Codes. A significantly larger proportion of convenience stores in more affluent areas offered bananas (χ 2 = 4.17, P = 0.003), whole grain bread (χ 2 = 8.33, P = 0.004), and baked potato chips (χ 2 = 13.68, P < 0.001). On average, the price of diet cola (t = −2.12, P = 0.044) and certain produce items (e.g., bananas, oranges, tomatoes, broccoli, and cucumber) was significantly higher within convenience stores in more affluent areas. Convenience stores can play an important role to positively shape a community's food environment by stocking healthier foods at affordable prices.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8f/cb/PMC3713310.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4327264", "abstract": "Despite the large number of studies addressing the effect of microwave polymerization on the properties of acrylic resin, this method has received limited clinical acceptance. This study evaluated the influence of microwave polymerization on the flexural strength of a denture base resin. A conventional heat-polymerized (Clássico), a microwave-polymerized (Onda-Cryl) and a autopolymerizing acrylic (Jet) resins were used. Five groups were established, according to polymerization cycles: A, B and C (Onda-Cryl, short cycle – 500W/3 min, long – 90W/13 min + 500W/90 sec, and manufacturing microwave cycle - 320W/ 3 min + 0W/3 min + 720W/3 min); T (Clássico, water bath cycle – 74°C/9h) and Q (Jet, press chamber cycle – 50°C/15 min at 2 bar). Ten specimens (65 x 10 x 3.3mm) were prepared for each cycle. The flexural strength of the five groups was measured using a three-point bending test at a cross-head speed of 5 mm/min. Flexural strength values were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and the Tukey's test was performed to identify the groups that were significantly different at 5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/31/4c/1678-7757-jaos-15-05-0424.PMC4327264.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3677807", "abstract": "Background Andropause and psychiatric disorders are associated with various symptoms in aging males and are part of the differential diagnosis of depression and anxiety. This study was designed to investigate the relationship between symptoms of aging, anxiety, and depression, and to determine if sexual dysfunction could be a differentiating characteristic in the psychiatric outpatient clinic. Methods One hundred seventy-six male psychiatric outpatients participated in the study and completed self-reported measures assessing symptoms of aging, depression, and anxiety. Symptoms of aging were assessed by the Aging Males’ Symptoms scale. Anxiety and depression were measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Erectile dysfunction was considered if a response to item 15 on the Aging Males’ Symptoms scale (impaired sexual potency) was rated with 4 or 5 points. Affective disturbance was assessed by the total scores of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Results Age was correlated with less anxiety and more sexual symptoms. Anxiety and depression were associated with more severe symptoms of aging, and depression was associated with more sexual symptoms than was anxiety. Impaired sexual potency was the only sexual symptom not significantly associated with depression and anxiety. Depression was associated with an interspousal age gap of ≥6 years. The point prevalence of erectile dysfunction was 28.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/84/07/PMC3677807.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3395184", "abstract": " Objective. To determine the prevalence and the genotypes of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in stool specimens from HIV patients.  Methods. This cross-sectional study was carried out in Kinshasa hospitals between 2009 and 2012. Detection of microsporidia including E. bieneusi and E. intestinalis was performed in 242 HIV-infected patients. Typing was based on DNA polymorphism of the ribosomal DNA ITS region of E. bieneusi. PCRRFLP generated with two restriction enzymes (Nla III and Fnu 4HI) in PCR-amplified ITS products for classifying strains into different lineages. The diagnosis performance of the indirect immune-fluorescence-monoclonal antibody (IFI-AcM) was defined in comparison with real-time PCR as the gold standard. Results. Out of 242 HIV-infected patients, using the real-time PCR, the prevalence of E. bieneusi was 7.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/23/93/PMC3395184.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3352075", "abstract": "The epidemiology of Candida infections has changed over the last two decades: The number of patients suffering from such infections has increased dramatically and the Candida species involved have become more numerous as Candida albicans is replaced as an infecting agent by various non-C. albicans species (NAC). At the same time, additional antifungal agents have become available. The different Candida species may vary in their susceptibility for these various antifungals. This draws more attention to in vitro susceptibility testing. Unfortunately, several different test methods exist that may deliver different results. Moreover, clinical breakpoints (CBP) that classify test results into susceptible, intermediate and resistant are controver- sial between CLSI and EUCAST. Therefore, clinicians should be aware that interpretations may vary with the test system being followed by the microbiological laboratory. Thus, knowledge of actual MIC values and pharmacokinetic properties of individual antifungal agents is important in delivering appropriate therapy to patients", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d2/c6/PMC3352075.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2656319", "abstract": "Indiplon is a novel sedative-hypnotic recently approved for the treatment of insomnia. Like other non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, its mechanism of action is to modulate subunits, especially the alpha-1 subunit, of the GABA receptor complex in order to induce sedation. Indiplon was developed in two different formulations to address two different types of insomnia complaint: indiplon-IR (immediate release) was designed for sleep onset difficulties, while indiplon-MR (modified release) was developed for sleep maintenance insomnia. While there are currently few peer reviewed articles about indiplon clinical trial results, the early information that is available seems to indicate that both formulations have been well tolerated and have proven effective at improving both patient reported and objectively measured sleep parameters in both adult and elderly insomnia patients. In May 2006, the FDA indicated that indiplon-IR was approvable and plans are to resubmit the application in 2007. Indiplon-MR was unapprovable and may require further evaluation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/da/6e/PMC2656319.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4089683", "abstract": "Surveillance biopsies have contributed to the understanding of the natural history of renal allograft lesions. Subclinical rejection, defined as the presence of histological lesions, indistinguishable from acute rejection in stable grafts, is associated with progression of interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy. The prevalence of subclinical rejection has decreased as more powerful immunosuppressive treatments have been introduced, suggesting that subclinical rejection represents the degree of control of the alloimmune response. However, non-immune factors such as donor age are also associated with the prevalence of subclinical rejection, suggesting that kidneys from older donors are more susceptible to insult and have a reduced capacity for tissue regeneration. Innate immunity has a crucial role in the modulation of the inflammatory response during infection and tissue damage. Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) is an innate immune protein, the polymorphisms of which are associated with infection, low-grade inflammation, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. However, the relationship between MBL and disease is complex. For example, low MBL level is associated with higher risk for diabetes, whereas in patients with diabetes, high MBL level is associated with more severe renal damage. In renal transplant patients, low MBL levels are associated with an increased prevalence of infection and diabetes, whereas high MBL levels are associated with shortened graft survival. Although MBL is not clearly associated with prevalence of acute rejection, surveillance biopsy studies have shown that low MBL levels are associated with subclinical rejection in kidney and the heart, suggesting that MBL modulates the injury–repair process of the allograft.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c6/bc/PMC4089683.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2860457", "abstract": "Quantum mechanical semiempirical comparative binding energy analysis calculations have been carried out for a series of protein kinase B (PKB) inhibitors derived from fragment- and structure-based drug design. These protein−ligand complexes were selected because they represent a consistent set of experimental data that includes both crystal structures and affinities. Seven scoring functions were evaluated based on both the PM3 and the AM1 Hamiltonians. The optimal models obtained by partial least-squares analysis of the aligned poses are predictive as measured by a number of standard statistical criteria and by validation with an external data set. An algorithm has been developed that provides residue-based contributions to the overall binding affinity. These residue-based binding contributions can be plotted in heat maps so as to highlight the most important residues for ligand binding. In the case of these PKB inhibitors, the maps show that Met166, Thr97, Gly43, Glu114, Ala116, and Val50, among other residues, play an important role in determining binding affinity. The interaction energy map makes it easy to identify the residues that have the largest absolute effect on ligand binding. The structure−activity relationship (SAR) map highlights residues that are most critical to discriminating between more and less potent ligands. Taken together the interaction energy and the SAR maps provide useful insights into drug design that would be difficult to garner in any other way.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fa/04/PMC2860457.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4893574", "abstract": "After surgery requiring general anesthesia, patients often experience emotional disturbances, but it is unclear if this is due to anesthetic exposure. In the present study, we examined whether isoflurane anesthesia produces long-term pathophysiological alterations in the basolateral amygdala (BLA), a brain region that plays a central role in emotional behavior. Ten-week-old, male rats were administered either a single, 1 h long isoflurane (1.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b0/88/PMC4893574.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3090286", "abstract": "Palatal tremor is a rare movement disorder characterized by rhythmic contractions of the soft palate. It is most often symptomatic, secondary to brainstem or cerebellar disease and, in rarer cases, is categorized as essential in the absence of documented brain lesions. There have also been reports in the literature of cases of palatal tremor described as psychogenic because they were associated with psychological or psychiatric disorders. We describe the case of a 12-year-old boy with palatal tremor presenting clinical features of symptomatic essential and psychogenic palatal tremor, thus suggesting a neuropsychopathological continuum between the different forms of disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/42/e0/PMC3090286.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4921632", "abstract": " Purpose. To evaluate high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) as an innovation and noninvasive technique to correct presbyopia by altering corneal curvature in the rabbit eye. Methods. Eighteen enucleated rabbit eyes were treated with a prototype HIFU keratoplasty. According to the therapy power, these eyes were divided three groups: group 1 (1 W), group 2 (2 W), and group 3 (3 W). The change in corneal power was quantified by a Sirius Scheimpflug camera. Light microscopy (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were performed to determine the effect on the corneal stroma. Results. In the treated eyes, the corneal curvature increases from 49.42 ± 0.30 diopters (D) and 48.00 ± 1.95 D before procedure to 51.37 ± 1.11 D and 57.00 ± 1.84 D after HIFU keratoplasty application in groups 1 and 3, respectively. The major axis and minor axis of the focal region got longer when the powers of the HIFU got increased; the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). LM and TEM showed HIFU-induced shrinkage of corneal stromal collagen with little disturbance to the underlying epithelium. Conclusions. We have preliminarily exploited HIFU to establish a new technique for correcting presbyopia. HIFU keratoplasty will be a good application prospect for treating presbyopia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ee/8f/PMC4921632.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3191769", "abstract": "There is little evidence from randomized trials showing that physical activity alone influences biomarker profiles in youths. This study tested two hypotheses: (i) that elevated body fatness and poor fitness would be associated with unfavorable levels of cardiometabolic biomarkers in 8–12-y-old black girls (n = 242) and (ii) that a 10-mo PA intervention would have favorable effects on the fatness-related cardiometabolic biomarkers. At baseline, all fatness indices (i.e., percent body fat, visceral adipose tissue, BMI, and waist circumference) were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with unfavorable levels of insulin, glucose, systolic BP, diastolic BP, triglycerides, C-reactive protein (CRP), and fibrinogen. Aerobic fitness was significantly (P < 0.05) associated with favorable levels of insulin, CRP, fibrinogen, and HDL2. The PA intervention had significant and favorable effects on fitness, fatness, and two biomarkers—resting heart rate and LDL cholesterol. More research is needed to clarify what types of interventions can enhance the cardiometabolic health of youths.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7a/93/PMC3191769.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5345418", "abstract": "The Partnership for Reviving Routine Immunization in Northern Nigeria - Maternal, Newborn and Child Health initiative supports efforts by the government of Nigeria to bridge primary health care (PHC) policies and services at three levels of government: federal, state and local. The paper suggests that understandings informed by complexity theory and complex adaptive systems have been helpful in shaping policy and programme design across these levels. To illustrate this, three initiatives are explored: Bringing PHC under one roof, enhancing access to funding provided by the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization, and strengthening the midwives service scheme. These initiatives have demonstrated how concepts and experience developed at subnational level can influence national policy and practice, and how work at subnational levels can add value to nationally conceived and nationally driven plans for PHC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/db/39/jphia-2014-2-381.PMC5345418.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4411467", "abstract": "Background Guidelines have produced and used in complex environment of health care system with its ethical, economical, legal and other aspects; that should be taken into account in any country. Modifying the format and content of guidelines might facilitate their usage and lead to improved quality of care and cost containment. We have produced this tool for explained above purpose. Methods A coordinating national team has settled at the office of minster of health and medical education, supported by a guideline review committee. An innovative and appropriate approach for adapting national health guidelines has consisted of eight steps, have defined For preparing the draft of each guideline a technical team which, including main author, her/his co-workers have nominated. The authors of each topic have systematically searched databases of the proposed Twenty-two International Sites, and then have selected at least five sources of them that were more relevant. The final recommendations have proposed by agreement of technical team and Guideline Review Committee. Results In less than 5 months, more than 500 authors in whole country have selected to prepare guidelines and, approximately 150 guidelines have provided in three volumes of the published and distributed book. Each guideline had a national ID number, constant forever; all topics should be reviewed every 3-5 years. Conclusion National health guideline(s) would be essential means for policy making in health system and increased the cost containment and quality of care. Ministry of Health and Medical Education should provide and distribute the guidelines based on its accountability to legal responsibility.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4e/df/IJCP-08-077.PMC4411467.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3184742", "abstract": "Objective: The aim of this cross-sectional analytic study was to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of panoramic-based indices of the mandible (Mental Index-MI, Mandibular Cortical Index-MCI and Panoramic Mandibular Index-PMI) and to determine their correlation with bone mineral density (BMD) of the femoral neck and lumbar vertebrae (L2-L4) in order to assess the possibility of using these parameters as indicators of osteoporosis. Materials and Methods: The mandibular indices of 67 women over 35 years old were measured from panoramic radiographs, and bone densitometry was performed in the femoral neck and lumbar vertebrae (L2-L4), using DXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) technique. The patients were divided into three categories of normal, osteopenic and osteoporotic in each skeletal region. One-way ANOVA and ROC curve analyses were applied. The results were considered statistically significant when the P-value was less than 0.05. Results: Comparing the mean BMD in the femoral neck in women between C1 and C3 subgroups of MCI, a significant difference was detected (P=0.04). The mean PMI in the three skeletal subgroups was not different according to the skeletal region (P>0.05). We found a significant difference in mean MI between normal and osteopenic subgroups in the femoral neck (P=0.042). Conclusion: Using radiomorphometric indices of the mandible (MCI-MI) may be useful in determining the skeletal status of the patients, but is not sufficient for precise evaluation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d1/c0/jod-7-098.PMC3184742.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4054879", "abstract": "The aim of this retrospective, single-centre study was to investigate the clinical and laboratory features and disease outcomes of 547 patients diagnosed with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) between 1975 and 2010. The patients were followed up for 11.4 ± 6.2 years. We evaluated the clinical and laboratory features, and assessed their influence on the time of diagnosis, survival, and mortality ratios, and compared them within subgroups defined by gender, glandular and extraglandular manifestations (EGMs), associated diseases, and immunoserological abnormalities. The most frequent EGMs were polyarthritis, Raynaud's phenomenon, and vasculitis among our patients; the most common associated disease was thyroiditis. During the follow-up period, 51 patients died; the median survival time was 33.71 years. Our results revealed a negative effect of cryoglobulinemia on survival ratios; additionally, the presence of vasculitis and lymphoproliferative diseases at the time of diagnosis increased the risk of mortality. The development of vasculitis was the most powerful predictor of mortality. Mortality in the group of patients with extraglandular symptoms was two- to threefold higher than in the glandular group. Attention is drawn to the importance of close monitoring and targeted diagnostic approaches in those pSS subgroups with obviously increased mortality risk.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6b/77/PMC4054879.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2633182", "abstract": "Congenital nephrotic syndrome is defined as nephrotic syndrome which manifests in utero or during the first 3 months of life. The prototype of congenital nephrotic syndrome is congenital nephrotic syndrome of Finnish type (CNF, OMIM #602716), which is caused by loss-of-function mutations of the nephrin gene (NPHS1). There have been few clinical case reports of CNF in Korea, but none of which was confirmed by genetic study. Here, we report two children with congenital nephrotic syndrome. Genetic analysis of the NPHS1 gene revealed compound heterozygous frame-shifting mutations (c.2156_2163 delTGCACTGC causing p.L719DfsX4 and c.3250_3251insG causing p.V1084GfsX12) in one patient and a missense mutation (c.1381G>A causing p.R460Q) and a nonsense mutation (c.2442C>G causing p.Y814X) in the other patient. The nonsense mutation was novel. The clinical courses of the patients were typical of CNF. This is the first report of genetically confirmed CNF in Korea to date. The early genetic diagnosis of CNF is important for proper clinical management of the patients and precise genetic counseling of the families.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/eb/jkms-24-S210.PMC2633182.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3826442", "abstract": "Alterations in the abundance or activities of alternative splicing regulators generate alternatively spliced variants that contribute to multiple aspects of tumor establishment, progression and resistance to therapeutic treatments. Notably, many cancer-associated genes are regulated through alternative splicing suggesting a significant role of this post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism in the production of oncogenes and tumor suppressors. Thus, the study of alternative splicing in cancer might provide a better understanding of the malignant transformation and identify novel pathways that are uniquely relevant to tumorigenesis. Understanding the molecular underpinnings of cancer-associated alternative splicing isoforms will not only help to explain many fundamental hallmarks of cancer, but will also offer unprecedented opportunities to improve the efficacy of anti-cancer treatments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/36/45/PMC3826442.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3856268", "abstract": "Amyloidosis is a group of disorders characterized by the extracellular accumulation of insoluble, fibrillar proteins in various organs and tissues. It is classified, on the basis of the identity of the precursor protein, as primary, secondary, or familial amyloidosis. Gastrointestinal amyloidosis usually presents as bleeding, ulceration, malabsorption, protein loss, and diarrhea. However, gastric amyloidosis with gastric outlet obstruction mimicking linitis plastica is rare. We report a case of gastrointestinal amyloidosis with gastric outlet obstruction in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. The patient was indicated for subtotal gastrectomy because of the aggravation of obstructive symptoms, but refused the operation and was transferred to another hospital. Three months later, the patient died of aspiration pneumonia during medical treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7b/03/ce-46-651.PMC3856268.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5075631", "abstract": " Background. Timely and adequate treatment is important to limit complications of diabetes affecting pregnancy, but there is a lack of knowledge on how these women are managed in low resource settings. Objective. To identify modalities of gestational diabetes detection and management in low and lower middle income countries. Methods. We conducted a scoping review of published literature and searched the databases PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and African Index Medicus. We included all articles published until April 24, 2016, containing information on clinical practices of detection and management of gestational diabetes irrespective of publication date or language. Results. We identified 23 articles mainly from Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The majority of studies were conducted in large tertiary care centers and hospital admission was reported in a third of publications. Ambulatory follow-up was generally done by weekly to fortnightly visits, whereas self-monitoring of blood glucose was not the norm. The cesarean section rate for pregnancies affected by diabetes ranged between 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/ba/PMC5075631.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4276697", "abstract": " Background. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral problem in children. Global variations in diagnostic criteria and rating scales of ADHD either by DSM-IV or ICD 10 may contribute to variations in its prevalence. Objectives. The study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of ADHD and to determine its risk factors. Methodology. A cross-section comparative study was conducted in a randomly selected four primary schools in Menoufia governorate, Egypt. All children after a valid consent of their parents (N. 1362) were subjected to complete history taking, medical and psychological assessment, and IQ estimation. Their parents and teachers were subjected to the corresponding Arabic forms of Conner's questionnaire. Suspected cases were confirmed and categorized by DSM-IV criteria. The sample was divided into cases and controls to study the risk factors. Results. Prevalence of ADHD was 6.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/cd/PMC4276697.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3341484", "abstract": "McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome is a disorder caused by fluid and electrolyte hypersecretion from a colorectal tumor. To present the case of a patient with a giant rectal villous tumor with McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome who was successfully treated with laparoscopic surgery. The case of a 59-year-old man who came to the emergency department with syncope, prerenal azotemia, and electrolyte disturbances with a background of chronic diarrhea is reported. His condition was the result of fluid and electrolyte hypersecretion caused by rectal villotubular adenomas. Laparoscopic low anterior resection and subsequent volume and electrolyte replacement therapy resulted in complete recovery. A microscopic examination revealed multiple, well-differentiated adenocarcinomas arising in villotubular adenomas. Laparoscopic surgical resection is a feasible therapeutic modality for McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/40/jkss-82-325.PMC3341484.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5198915", "abstract": "Aneurysm of gastroduodenal artery (GDA) is rare. Most reported cases are due to pancreatitis and atherosclerosis; however, those following pancreatic trauma have not been reported. We encountered GDA aneurysm in a patient of blunt abdominal trauma, who had pancreatic contusion and retroduodenal air on contrast enhanced computed tomography of abdomen. Emergency laparotomy for suspected duodenal injury revealed duodenal wall and pancreatic head contusion, mild hemoperitoneum and no evidence of duodenal perforation. In the postoperative period, the patient developed upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage on day 5. Repeat imaging revealed GDA aneurysm, which was managed successfully by angioembolization. This case highlights, one, delayed presentation of GDA aneurysm after blunt pancreatic trauma and two, its successful management using endovascular technique.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a8/82/main.PMC5198915.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3460702", "abstract": "Background Qualitative description of the optic disc has clinical value, but optical coherence tomography (OCT) has provided the ability to quantify retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness. Methods We asked three neuro-ophthalmologists of at least 20 years’ experience to estimate the average OCT RNFL thickness of 37 eyes based on fundus photos. Results The overall correlation coefficient for RNFL thickness estimation variance between two physicians and between physician and OCT was 0.53. The likelihood that the RNFL thickness estimation between physicians, or between physician and OCT, was within 10 μm of each other was 47", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/59/41/PMC3460702.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2916109", "abstract": "We here in report a case of bilateral endogenous endophthalmitis caused by Pantoea agglomerans (P. agglomerans) in a patient who had interstitial lung disease and was treated with oral corticosteroids. A 72-year-old man presented with decreased visual acuity in both eyes nine days after he received oral corticosteroids. He had marked uveitis, cataracts, and vitreous opacities. Cultures were taken of blood, aqueous humor, and vitreous. We initially suspected a fungal etiology and treated him with antifungal drugs; however, the intraocular disease progressed without improvement. Vitreous culture was positive for P. agglomerans. The patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy with cataract surgery bilaterally, followed by a 2-week course of antibiotics. The final visual acuity was 20/25 in the right eye and 20/200 in the left eye. This is the first report of bilateral endogenous endophthalmitis caused by P. agglomerans in Korea; it is also the first case reported outside of the United States.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/b1/kjo-24-249.PMC2916109.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3806706", "abstract": "Presentation of an increasingly recognized right-sided primary valve tumor of clinical importance: the tricuspid valve papillary fibroelastoma (PF). Early recognition and surgical intervention is emphasized for valvular PF, which carries a significant risk of morbidity and mortality. Newer imaging techniques, including CT and MRI, assist in localizing and differentiating PF from alternative cardiac pathology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/76/dc/cro-0006-0485.PMC3806706.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4681937", "abstract": "[Purpose] The objective of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of pedometry and accelerometry in the measurement of the energy expenditures in Nordic walking and conventional walking as diagnostic parameters. [Subjects and Methods] The study included 20 female students (age, 24 ± 2.3 years). The study used three types of measuring devices, namely a heart rate monitor (Polar S610i), a Caltrac accelerometer, and a pedometer (Yamax SW-800). The walking pace at the level of 110 steps/min was determined by using a metronome. [Results] The students who walked with poles covered a distance of 1,000 m at a speed 36.3 sec faster and with 65.5 fewer steps than in conventional walking. Correlation analysis revealed a moderate interrelationship between the results obtained with a pedometer and those obtained with an accelerometer during Nordic walking (r = 0.55) and a high correlation during conventional walking (r = 0.85). [Conclusion] A pedometer and Caltrac accelerometer should not be used as alternative measurement instruments in the comparison of energy expenditure in Nordic walking.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/8f/jpts-27-3525.PMC4681937.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3384907", "abstract": "The risk of exposure to Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) when consuming Ready-to-Eat (RTE) seafood was assessed in the Veneto Region (Italy). Thirty-eight samples were analyzed, each sample consisted of three subunits belonging to the same batches. The first of the three units was examined immediately, the second was stored at +4°C (for all of its shelf-life) and the third at +10°C (for the latter third of its shelf-life) before the analysis. Chemical-physical and microbiological parameters were tested simultaneously. Culture results showed the presence of viable L. monocytogenes in 9 (23,68", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f5/cb/PMC3384907.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3867999", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) was designed to test the glucose hypothesis and determine whether the complications of type 1 diabetes (T1DM) could be prevented or delayed. The Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (EDIC) observational follow-up determined the durability of the DCCT effects on the more-advanced stages of diabetes complications including cardiovascular disease (CVD). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The DCCT (1982–1993) was a controlled clinical trial in 1,441 subjects with T1DM comparing intensive therapy (INT), aimed at achieving levels of glycemia as close to the nondiabetic range as safely possible, with conventional therapy (CON), which aimed to maintain safe asymptomatic glucose control. INT utilized three or more daily insulin injections or insulin pump therapy guided by self-monitored glucose. EDIC (1994–present) is an observational study of the DCCT cohort. RESULTS The DCCT followed >99", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a8/16/9.PMC3867999.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5368710", "abstract": "Case summary A 13-month-old, female, mixed breed, 4.0 kg cat was referred with a 6 month history of decreased appetite, loss of vigour and intermittent vomiting. Physical examination revealed no cyanosis or wasting, and no audible heart murmur was auscultated. Blood profile revealed mild anaemia and mildly elevated postprandial serum ammonia (109 µg/dl). Abdominal ultrasonography revealed dilation of an intrahepatic portal vein branch and an intrahepatic aneurysm, with splenomegaly and ascites. Hepatic arteriovenous fistula/hepatic artery–portal vein fistula with multiple acquired portosystemic shunts was strongly suspected. Medical control was achieved using antibiotics, liver-protecting agents, a low-protein diet and blood transfusions. However, because medical treatment proved ineffective, coil embolisation was performed on day 11, using a hybrid approach via the mesenteric vein. Subsequent follow-up showed good appetite, with no signs of diarrhoea or ascites. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed that the mosaic pattern around the site of coil placement in the portal vein branch had improved and pulsatility had disappeared. Relevance and novel information Intrahepatic arterioportal fistula involves a circulatory shunt between the hepatic artery and the hepatic or portal vein within the liver, and may be congenital or acquired. Both forms have been reported in humans, but most cases in cats have been congenital. Few reports have described treatment methods or prognosis in cats. We report here that coil embolisation using a hybrid approach is a procedure offering easy, effective treatment by blocking hepatofugal blood flow.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/f6/10.1177_2055116916642256.PMC5368710.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2707529", "abstract": "Introduction The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) is the first universally shared model and classification of functioning, disability and health. It can be used as an assessment instrument based on ICF-derived tools, such as the ICF Core Sets, as well as a reference for other outcome measures and health indicators. Aims To present the results of the development of the Generic ICF Core Set and the results of the comparison of the Generic ICF Core Set and the six widely-used generic outcome measures: the SF-36, the NHP, the QL-I, the WHOQOL-BREF, the WHODASII and the EQ-5D. Results The Generic ICF Core Set is a parsimonious set of ICF categories which defines the health and health-related domains to be taken into account to assess health from a comprehensive perspective. It contains all health and health-related domains that are addressed in the most widely-used outcome measures and health indicators. Conclusions The consequent use of the Generic ICF Core Set enables the comparison of health information across health conditions and health-care contexts. It also enhances the international comparability of health and functioning and disability data and can ultimately contribute to the improvement of care and support for persons with disabilities and the elderly.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/38/86/PMC2707529.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3389677", "abstract": " Background. Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common infection. The aim of this study was to identify the species of vaginal Candida isolates by using multiplex PCR technique. Methods. 191 isolates from patients admitted to Mahdieh hospital were identified. The vaginal swab specimens were cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar. The ITS1 region between the 18S and 5.8S rRNA genes and a specific DNA fragment within the ITS2 region were amplified. The multiplex PCR products were separated by electrophoresis in 2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/90/0b/PMC3389677.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4793781", "abstract": "Objective: To determine the frequency of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) plateaus and reversals in the Pooled Resource Open-Access ALS Clinical Trials (PRO-ACT) database. Methods: We analyzed Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS) and ALSFRS–revised (ALSFRS-R) data from PRO-ACT participants. The frequencies of participants experiencing plateaus (periods where scores did not change) were calculated over 6-, 12-, and 18-month epochs. The percentage of participants ever experiencing reversals (periods where scores improved) of different lengths were also calculated and plotted. Results: Over 6 months, 25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ad/b5/NEUROLOGY2015670125.PMC4793781.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2924556", "abstract": "Purpose To investigate changes in nocturia and predictive factors for improvement after photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Materials and Methods A total of 103 patients who complained of nocturia of ≥2 times per night on baseline frequency-volume chart (FVC) and who underwent PVP were included in this retrospective study. All patients underwent a preoperative evaluation for BPH including multichannel video urodynamics. The efficacy of the PVP was evaluated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively by use of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and FVC. Subjective and objective improvement of nocturia were defined as a reduction of ≥50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/18/df/kju-51-531.PMC2924556.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4028355", "abstract": "Current anti-cancer therapies have a great deal of undesirable side effects; therefore, there is a need to develop efficient and cancer cell-specific new drugs without strong dose-limiting side effects. In my opinion, mechanisms of nuclear assembly and organization represent a novel platform for drug targets, which might fulfill these criteria. The nuclear stiffness and organization of some cancer types are often compromised, making them more vulnerable for further targeting the mechanisms of nuclear integrity than their normal counterparts. Here I will discuss the nuclear organization of normal cells and cancer cells, the molecular mechanisms that govern nuclear assembly with emphasis on those that, in my view, might be considered as targets for future anti-cancer therapies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e6/2d/nucl-5-47.PMC4028355.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4302397", "abstract": "Background: Investigations across the world confirm dramatic increment in the use of complementary and alternative medicine in pregnant women. The most important aspect is lack of awareness of pregnant women about potential effects of using traditional medicine on fetus; some herbal products may be teratogenic in human and animal models. In this area, so far, no research has been conducted in Ethiopia to assess traditional medicine use in pregnant women. Objectives: Therefore, the main objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and use of herbal drugs among pregnant women attending Nekemte Hospital to provide baseline information for future studies. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted by quantitative and qualitative approaches to identify the prevalence of using herbal medicines among pregnant women. About 50.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e6/29/jjnpp-09-04-17368.PMC4302397.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3205364", "abstract": "Intra-abdominal desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a highly malignant tumor of uncertain histogenesis. Here we report a case of DSRCT involving the stomach, initially misdiagnosed as gastric cancer. A 12-year-old boy presented with upper abdominal pain developed 1 month prior. On gastroscopy, a 7-cm mass was noted involving the esophago-gastric junction to the fundus, and positron emission tomography showed multiple hot uptakes suggesting distant metastasis. Gastroscopic biopsy showed poorly differentiated malignant cells. We diagnosed as stage IV gastric cancer and treated with 6 cycles of chemotherapy. Laparotomy revealed a huge gastric mass along with peritoneal disseminations. Palliative proximal gastrectomy was performed. Pathological examination revealed transmural involvement of DSRCT, and t(11;22)(p12;q12) was demonstrated on fluorescence in situ hybridization test. The chemotherapeutic regimen was changed and the patient underwent 8 additional cycles of post-operative chemotherapy. The patient is now alive and the residual tumor shows no significant changes after chemotherapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3a/bc/jkss-80-S80.PMC3205364.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3603462", "abstract": "Most models developed to represent transport across epithelia assume that the cell interior constitutes a homogeneous compartment, characterized by a single concentration value of the transported species. This conception differs significantly from the current view, in which the cellular compartment is regarded as a highly crowded media of marked structural heterogeneity. Can the finding of relatively simple dynamic properties of transport processes in epithelia be compatible with this complex structural conception of the cell interior? The purpose of this work is to contribute with one simple theoretical approach to answer this question. For this, the techniques of model reduction are utilized to obtain a two-state reduced model from more complex linear models of transcellular transport with a larger number of intermediate states. In these complex models, each state corresponds to the solute concentration in an intermediate intracellular compartment. In addition, the numerical studies reveal that it is possible to approximate a general two-state model under conditions where strict reduction of the complex models cannot be performed. These results contribute with arguments to reconcile the current conception of the cell interior as a highly complex medium with the finding of relatively simple dynamic properties of transport across epithelial cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/7b/PMC3603462.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4821157", "abstract": "Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome is a rare congenital neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by dysmorphic features, skeletal abnormalities, growth deficiency, and mental retardation. Circumscribed storiform collagenoma is a distinct benign fibromatous tumor that presents either as solitary tumor or in association with other syndromes. In this report, we describe a 16-year-old male with Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome associated with circumscribed storiform collagenoma. To our knowledge, this association has not been previously described in the literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/d4/cde-0008-0059.PMC4821157.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4303713", "abstract": "The aim of the study was to evaluate visual and brainstem auditory evoked potentials (VEP, BAEP) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with regards to fatigue and disease-related variables. The study comprised 86 MS patients and 40 controls. Fatigue was assessed using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS/FSS-5) and the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). Latencies and amplitudes of the P100 component of VEP and the I–V components of BAEP were analyzed. The results of EP were compared between non-fatigued, moderately and severely fatigued MS patients and controls. P100 latency was increased and amplitude decreased in moderately and severely fatigued MS subjects. The latency of the V component of BAEP and interlatencies I-III-V were increased in severely fatigued patients. The amplitude of the V component was lowered in fatigued patients. VEP and BAEP abnormalities were usually one-sided. Interocular P100 latency difference tended to correlate with FSS/FSS-5. The parameters of VEP and BAEP correlated with functional system scores but not with MS duration, overall degree of disability or its progression over time. Significant, usually asymmetrical VEP and BAEP abnormalities were found in fatigued MS patients, with no relationships to disease-related variables. EP may be considered an electrophysiological marker of fatigue in MS patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/df/46/PMC4303713.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4334053", "abstract": " Objective. To study the predictors for desire for multiple pregnancies and the influence of providing information regarding the maternal and fetal complications associated with multiple pregnancies on their preference for multiple pregnancies. Methods. Couples attending an infertility clinic were offered to fill up a questionnaire separately. Following this, they were handed a pamphlet with information regarding the risks associated with multiple pregnancies. The patients will then be required to answer the question on the number of pregnancies desired again. Results. Two hundred fifty three out of 300 respondents completed the questionnaires adequately. A higher proportion of respondents, 60.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d7/25/PMC4334053.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4271537", "abstract": "The evolution of avian feathers has recently been illuminated by fossils and the identification of genes involved in feather patterning and morphogenesis. However, molecular studies have focused mainly on protein-coding genes. Using comparative genomics and more than 600,000 conserved regulatory elements, we show that patterns of genome evolution in the vicinity of feather genes are consistent with a major role for regulatory innovation in the evolution of feathers. Rates of innovation at feather regulatory elements exhibit an extended period of innovation with peaks in the ancestors of amniotes and archosaurs. We estimate that 86", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/16/29/msu309.PMC4271537.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4230257", "abstract": "Background: Early recognition is the most important intervention to improve melanoma prognosis. Objective: To report the value of dermoscopy and digital dermoscopy in the clinical diagnosis of malignant melanoma (MM). Methods: Retrospective analysis of 99 consecutive primary MMs diagnosed between 2010 and 2013. The MMs were divided into 3 groups: 1) the MM was the reason for consultation (MMC), 2) the MM was detected during routine control of nevi (MMRC), and 3) the MM was detected due to changes observed during digital dermoscopy follow-up (MMDFU). Clinical, dermoscopic and histologic features were assessed. Results: A total of 99 MMs were diagnosed in 89 patients (55", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e0/2e/PMC4230257.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4764802", "abstract": "May–Thurner syndrome is an anatomic variant where the right common iliac artery compresses the left common iliac vein. The variant exists in a significant portion of the population, but is usually asymptomatic; however, clinically significant stenosis can occur by iatrogenic means. In this report, we describe a patient who presents with left lower extremity pain and swelling. Initial workup for deep vein thrombosis was negative. After being referred to our venous clinic, a magnetic resonance angiography revealed narrowing of the left common iliac vein with a tortuous right common iliac artery crossing over the constriction. During left iliac vein stent placement, a pedicle screw from a prior L2–S1 spinal fusion was noted to be perforated through L5 vertebral body impinging the posterior aspect of the vein. This case demonstrates that increased scrutiny must be applied when dealing with pathology in close proximity to any implanted medical device.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/15/d5/rjw003.PMC4764802.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2948259", "abstract": "The primate posterior parietal cortex (PPC) processes information related to environmental physical space. The human PPC has apparently expanded not only in size but also in its functional range to encompass certain abstract and higher-order conceptual spaces. In this report, we review various forms of non-spatial representation in the PPC. These forms are presented roughly in order of the level of abstraction of the ‘objects’ and pseudo-spatial relations represented. Also, we consider mechanisms that could have enabled the hominid PPC to establish such representations. Lastly, we offer a general principle to unify the newer forms of representation with the original functions of the PPC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3a/02/1757-594X-0001-0000000074.PMC2948259.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4267971", "abstract": "Abstract Respiratory viruses can cause a wide spectrum of pulmonary diseases, ranging from mild, upper respiratory tract infections to severe and life‐threatening lower respiratory tract infections, including the development of acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Viral clearance and subsequent recovery from infection require activation of an effective host immune response; however, many immune effector cells may also cause injury to host tissues. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronavirus cause severe infection of the lower respiratory tract, with 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/aa/PATH-235-185.PMC4267971.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3306960", "abstract": "Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) was initially studied for its role as a key player in the regulation of peripheral innervations. However, the successive finding of its release in the bloodstream of male mice following aggressive encounters and its presence in the central nervous system led to the hypothesis that variations in brain NGF levels, caused by psychosocial stressor, and the related alterations in emotionality, could be functional to the development of proper strategies to cope with the stressor itself and thus to survive. Years later this vision is still relevant, and the body of evidence on the role of NGF has been strengthened and expanded from trophic factor playing a role in brain growth and differentiation to a much more complex messenger, involved in psychoneuroendocrine plasticity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/11/PMC3306960.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2939409", "abstract": "Miller-Fisher syndrome (MFS) is a rare condition characterized by the classical triad of ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and areflexia (Fisher, 1956). It is considered a variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) with which it may overlap, or it can occur in more limited forms. We report a case of a thirty-five-year-old male who presented with a six-day history of diplopia, following a recent chest infection. On examination, he was found to have bilateral sixth nerve palsy, bilateral fourth nerve palsy, bilateral areflexical mydriasis, ataxia and total absence of reflexes. After excluding other conditions, a diagnosis of Miller-Fisher syndrome was made. The patient was administered intravenous immunoglobulin and made an uneventful recovery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/42/bf/PMC2939409.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3672565", "abstract": "Hu and coworkers in the previous issue of Critical Care provide evidence for the clinical relevance of proteinuria in the outcome of burn patients. Proteinuria is a common finding after severe burns, appears within a short period and is detectable for several weeks. Proteinuria ranging from 0.5 to 3 to 4 g/day is initially of mixed type, then, after a week, gradually changes to tubular proteinuria. The clinical role of proteinuria is still unclear, mainly due to a lack of data on its pathogenesis. Recent studies have demonstrated an association between proteinuria and incidence of inhalation injury, sepsis, acute kidney injury and mortality rate. Proteinuria is considered the mirror of increased systemic capillary permeability, and possibly a direct marker of glomerular and tubular injury. Circulating plasma inflammatory mediators and pro-apoptotic factors reflecting burn injury, sepsis and acute kidney injury can affect the viability and function of tubular cells and podocytes. These studies highlight that proteinuria in burn patients should receive due consideration.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a5/a1/PMC3672565.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4655848", "abstract": " Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is a rather common cancer in northern Iran. Incidence of adenocarcinoma of esophagus has an increasing trend in Iran. Co-existence of both cancers in one patient is very rare. We report a middle age woman from northern Iran with a typical presentation of esophageal cancer, who was found to have a dual esophageal cancer. The disease was found in the advanced stage with pulmonary metastasis at the presentation. Palliative chemo-radiotherapy induced partial clinical response ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b0/37/MEJDD-7-257.PMC4655848.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2609912", "abstract": "Submerged primary molars can be difficult to manage due to the developing dentition. Rarely in some severe cases, may the surgical interventions be required while ensuring the vital structures are protected. Therefore these cases require sophisticated imaging techniques in order to locate the vital structures. In this case report, a 17 year old girl who had a retained and submerged deciduous molar which caused impaction of the second premolar and tipping of the first molar was presented. In addition, value of computed tomography (CT) for locating the vital anatomic structures was discussed. In our case, CT has been supplied effective information about localization of the vital structures and amount of bone volume during the diagnosis and treatment planning period in addition to the routine dental radiographies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fc/5b/PMC2609912.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4021861", "abstract": " Study Design. In this study, we investigated the role of IL-17 via activation of STAT3 in the pathophysiology of SCI. Objective. The purpose of the experiments is to study the expression of IL-17 and related cytokines via STAT3 signaling pathways, which is caused by the acute inflammatory response following SCI in different periods via establishing an acute SCI model in rat. Methods. Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan hind limb locomotor rating scale was used to assess the rat hind limb motor function. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression levels of IL-17 and p-STAT3 in spinal cord tissues. Western blotting analysis was used to determine the protein expression of p-STAT3 in spinal cord tissue. RT-PCR was used to analyze the mRNA expression of IL-17 and IL-23p19 in the spleen tissue. ELISA was used to determine the peripheral blood serum levels of IL-6, IL-21, and IL-23. Results. Compared to the sham-operated group, the expression levels of IL-17, p-STAT3, IL-6, IL-21, and IL-23 were significantly increased and peaked at 24 h after SCI. The increased levels of cytokines were correlated with the SCI disease stages.  Conclusion. IL-17 may play an important role in promoting spinal cord neuroinflammation after SCI via activation of STAT3.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/6f/PMC4021861.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3826297", "abstract": "Ticks acquire a wide range of microorganisms as a natural part of their lifecycle. Bacteria, viruses, and protozoa can be transmitted to ticks during feeding and free-living phases. DGGE profiling is a molecular method to describe the microbial population associated with ticks and demonstrate some of the complexity and variety of tick-borne microorganisms. The present study profiled a total of 120 I. ricinus ticks, which were divided into three equally sized groups. We found that B. burgdorferi s.l.-infected ticks presented a pattern consisting of bacterial Pseudomonas  spp. (67.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/57/10/PMC3826297.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3934684", "abstract": "Within the evaluation process of living kidney donors, split renal function is usually evaluated by renal scintigraphy. Since split renal function measured by conventional posterior scans depends on the position of the kidney, actual suitable donors may be rejected because of an inaccurate examination technique. We report the case of a 28-year-old male living kidney donor. Due to a complex vascular anatomy of the right kidney, only his left kidney was considered eligible for transplantation. In conventional posterior Tc99m-mercapto-acetyltriglycine scintigraphy, the left kidney had a relative function of 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/bf/cru-0004-0001.PMC3934684.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4869573", "abstract": "Nocturia is a prevalent condition of waking to void during the night. The concept of nocturia has evolved from being a symptomatic aspect of disease associated with the prostate or bladder to a form of lower urinary tract disorder. However, recent advances in circadian biology and sleep science suggest that it might be important to consider nocturia as a form of circadian dysfunction. In the current review, nocturia is reexamined with an introduction to sleep disorders and recent findings in circadian biology in an attempt to highlight the importance of rediscovering nocturia as a problem of chronobiology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c1/2d/icu-57-165.PMC4869573.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4987944", "abstract": "High-throughput genome sequencing continues to grow the need for rapid, accurate genome annotation and tRNA genes constitute the largest family of essential, ever-present non-coding RNA genes. Newly developed tRNAscan-SE 2.0 has advanced the state-of-the-art methodology in tRNA gene detection and functional prediction, captured by rich new content of the companion Genomic tRNA Database. Previously, web-server tRNA detection was isolated from knowledge of existing tRNAs and their annotation. In this update of the tRNAscan-SE On-line resource, we tie together improvements in tRNA classification with greatly enhanced biological context via dynamically generated links between web server search results, the most relevant genes in the GtRNAdb and interactive, rich genome context provided by UCSC genome browsers. The tRNAscan-SE On-line web server can be accessed at http://trna.ucsc.edu/tRNAscan-SE/.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/9a/gkw413.PMC4987944.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3322781", "abstract": "Acute pneumonia developed in a previously healthy man during the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in southern China in March 2003. Antibiotic treatment was ineffective, and he died 8 days after illness onset. Human metapneumovirus was isolated from lung tissue. No other pathogen was found. Other etiologic agents should thus be sought in apparent SARS cases when coronavirus infection cannot be confirmed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1f/b3/PMC3322781.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4976271", "abstract": "ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels are well characterized in cardiac, pancreatic and many other muscle cells. In the present study, functional expression of the KATP channel was examined in non-pregnant murine longitudinal myometrium. Isometric contraction measurements and Western blot were used. KATP channel openers (KCOs), such as pinacidil, cromakalim, diazoxide and nicorandil, inhibited spontaneous myometrial contractions in a reversible and glibenclamide-sensitive manner. KCOs inhibited oxytocin (OXT)- and prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α)-induced phasic contractions in a glibenclamide-sensitive manner. SUR2B and Kir6.2 were detected by Western blot, whereas SUR1, SUR2A and Kir6.1 were not. These results show that pinacidl, cromakalim, diazoxide and nicorandil-sensitive KATP channels exist in murine myometrium, which are composed of SUR2B and Kir6.2. Based on the modulatory effects of the KATP channel on spontaneous contraction, OXT- and PGF2α-induced contractions, KATP channels seem to play an essential role in murine myometrial motility via activation of SUR2B and Kir6.2.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4f/7d/jvms-78-1153.PMC4976271.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4536648", "abstract": "Objective. Previous studies have shown that receiving diabetes self-management education (DSME) is associated with increased care utilization. However, the relationship between DSME duration and care utilization patterns remains largely unexamined. Our purpose is to characterize DSME duration and examine the relationship between DSME duration and clinical- and self-care utilization patterns. Methods. The study sample included 1,446 adults who were ≥18 years of age, had diabetes, and had participated in the 2008 Florida Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey. Clinical- and self-care outcomes were derived using responses to the survey’s diabetes module and were based on minimum standards of care established by the American Diabetes Association. The outcomes examined included self-monitoring of blood glucose at least once per day; receiving at least one eye exam, one foot exam, A1C tests, and an influenza vaccination in the past year; and ever receiving a pneumococcal vaccination. DSME duration was categorized as no DSME, >0 to <4 hours, 4–10 hours, and >10 hours. Results. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, compared to those who did not receive DSME, those who had 4–10 or 10+ hours of DSME were more likely to receive two A1C tests (odds ratio [95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/01/193.PMC4536648.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4200594", "abstract": "Background and Purpose The diagnostic accuracy for unruptured intracranial aneurysms has increased, and incidental asymptomatic aneurysms have come to represent a substantial clinical burden because of their controversial natural history. However, their prevalence may be attributable to variations in evaluation methods and demographics. We therefore describe the prevalence and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) findings of incidental intracranial saccular aneurysms over a 5-year period at a single large-volume center. Methods MRA images from 18,237 patients obtained between January 2001 and December 2005 were retrieved from the radiology report database. Patients diagnosed with incidental intracranial saccular aneurysms were identified and their MRA data were reviewed. Imaging and clinical follow-up data were evaluated. Results During the study period, 366 incidental intracranial saccular aneurysms were identified in 330 patients (prevalence, 1.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d0/1c/jos-16-189.PMC4200594.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4005481", "abstract": " Splenic artery aneurysm (SAA) is a rare and potentially life-threatening clinical entity that carries a risk of rupture and peritoneal hemorrhage. When ruptured, it typically manifests as abdominal pain with hemodynamic instability. This is a report about a 29-year-old male admitted for evaluation of recentonset ascites following the spontaneous resolution of a transient episode of severe epigastric and left upper quadrant pain with syncope the preceding day. Paracentesis revealed bloody fluid. Abdominal computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance venography (MRV) showed a three centimeter SAA. During admission, prompt exploratory laparotomy was performed that revealed excessive intraperitoneal hemorrhage due to a ruptured SAA. The pathology report confirmed that the SAA had developed secondary to atherosclerosis. Careful history taking together with appropriate imaging tests and emergent surgical intervention led to a timely diagnosis and the patient’ s survival. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/39/mejdd-6-37.PMC4005481.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5277595", "abstract": "Background and Objectives: The most common serotype of enterohaemorrhagic Esherichia coli group or Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli is O157:H7. Domestic and wild ruminants are regarded as the main natural reservoirs. O157:H7 serotype is the major cause of gastrointestinal infections in developed countries. In this study was conducted to survey on the toxigenic E. coli O157: H7 strains in milk of industrial dairy farms. Materials and Methods: A total number of 150 milk samples were collected from dairy industry in Khuzestan, over a period of 6 months and were evaluated by cultivation in selective media (CT-SMAC) and multiplex PCR. Results: Two isolates were identified as E. coli using biochemical tests, none of them were toxigenic E. coli O157:H7 as determined by multiplex PCR. Using direct PCR on milk samples, 45 samples contained at least one gene of the studied genes in this investigation (rfb, flic, stx1, stx2). With direct PCR, 2 milk samples were positive for toxigenic O157:H7. Conclusion: E. coli O157:H7 is present in this region and so the necessity for strict compliance of health standards is recommended. This is the first study on O157: H7 E. coli milk contamination in Khuzestan province. Based on these results, direct PCR is more accurate than indirect PCR.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/20/3e/PMC5277595.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4897197", "abstract": "Results of an investigation conducted to study the effect of fibre hybridization on the strength characteristics such as compressive strength, split tensile strength, and water permeability of steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC) are presented. Steel fibres of different lengths, that is, 12.5 mm, 25 mm, and 50 mm, having constant diameter of 0.6 mm, were systematically combined in different mix proportions to obtain mono, binary, and ternary combinations at each of 0.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/55/d8/PMC4897197.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3984888", "abstract": "Henri Laborit was one of the founders of modern neuropsychopharmacology, having discovered, or participated in, the discovery of chlorpromazine, gamma-OH, clomethiazole, and minaprine. He also put forward a theory regarding the necessity of counteracting the negative consequences of defense mechanisms during anesthesia or behavioral inhibition. The scope of his work covers neurophysiology, pharmacology, psychiatry, and psychosomatics. His independence of spirit meant that most of his research was not done within university settings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/31/DialoguesClinNeurosci-16-113.PMC3984888.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4192528", "abstract": "Objective To three-dimensionally elucidate the effects of occlusal hypofunction on the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone proper of rat molars by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Methods Occlusal function in the molar area was restricted by attaching an anterior bite plate on the maxillary incisors and a metal cap on the mandibular incisors of 5-week-old male Wistar rats for 1 week. The periodontal ligament space and alveolar bone proper around roots of the mandibular first molar were assessed by histology and micro-CT. Results The periodontal ligament space was narrower and the alveolar bone proper was sparser and less continuous in the hypofunction group than in the control group. Further, both the volume of the periodontal ligament and the volumetric ratio of the alveolar bone proper to the total tissue in the region of interest were significantly lower in the hypofunction group (p < 0.05). Conclusions Occlusal hypofunction induces atrophic changes in the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone proper of rat molars.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9b/f0/kjod-44-263.PMC4192528.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2920406", "abstract": "Carbon nanotubes were subjected to doping with an energetic Ag ion beam, and the carbon nanotubes on the top of the array were transformed into amorphous carbon nanowires with embedded Ag-nanoparticles. The field emission characteristics of these nanowires were investigated. The minimum turn-on and threshold fields were 0.68 and 1.09 V/μm, respectively, which were lower than those of the as-grown carbon nanotubes. This was probably because Ag-nanoparticles embedded in the carbon nanowires reduced the effective work function from 4.59 to 4.23 eV. Large doping amounts produced serious structural damage at the top of the nanowires and impaired the field emission characteristics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/89/dc/1556-276X-5-1449.PMC2920406.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4975139", "abstract": "Purpose To study the relationship between exophthalmometric value (EV) and refractive error in Cameroonian young adults. Patients and methods A prospective descriptive study was carried out in the ophthalmic unit of the Yaoundé Central Hospital from March to May 2015. Consenting patients aged 20–40 years with no intraocular pathology who were seen for refractive errors were included. Ocular protrusion was measured using the Hertel exophthalmometer. Automatic refraction was done following cycloplegia with cyclopentolate and tropicamide. Results A total of 200 patients were included (68", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a6/90/opth-10-1447.PMC4975139.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3964159", "abstract": "Oculogyric crisis is an acute dystonic reaction of the ocular muscles characterized by bilateral dystonic elevation of visual gaze lasting from seconds to hours. This reaction is most commonly explained as an adverse reaction to drugs such as antiemetics, antipsychotics, antidepressants, antiepileptics, and antimalarials. Although the incidence of metoclopramide-induced acute dystonic reactions has been reported as 25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/a2/opth-8-567.PMC3964159.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3228692", "abstract": "Monacolins, as natural statins, form a class of fungal secondary metabolites and act as the specific inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase. The interest in using the fermented products as the natural source of monacolins, instead of statin drugs, is increasing enormously with its increasing demand. In this study, the fermented products were produced by Monascus purpureus FTC5391 using submerged and solid state fermentations. Two commercial Monascus-fermented products were also evaluated for comparison. Improved methods of monacolins extraction and identification were developed for the assessment of monacolins in the fermented products. Methanol and ethanol were found to be the most favorable solvents for monacolins extraction due to their ability to extract higher amount of monacolin K and higher numbers of monacolin derivatives. Problem related to false-positive results during monacolins identification was solved by adding monacolin lactonization step in the assessment method. Using this improved method, monacolin derivatives were not detected in all Monascus-fermented products tested in this study, suggesting that their hypocholesterolemic effects may be due to other compounds other than monacolins.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/a2/PMC3228692.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4318016", "abstract": "Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an emerging worldwide epidemic but littledata concerning African populations are available. Objectives: We aimed to assess prevalence of CKD in adult populations of Saint-Louis, northern Senegal. Patients and Methods: In a population-based survey between January and May 2012, we included 1037 adults ≥ 18 years of age who resided in Saint-Louis. Socio-demographic, clinical, and biologic data were collected during household visits. Serum creatinine was measured by Jaffé method. We estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the four-variable Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation and CKD was defined by eGFR< 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and/or albuminuria > 1 g/L. A multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with CKD. Results: The mean of participants’ age was 47.9 ± 16.9 years (range, 18-87) and sex ratio (male to female) was 0.52. Majority of participants lived in urban areas (55.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/58/num-06-05-19085.PMC4318016.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4033559", "abstract": " Objective. To investigate the relationship between binge eating behavior and weight loss maintenance over a two-year period in adults. Design. Secondary data analysis using the Keep It Off study, a randomized trial evaluating an intervention to promote weight loss maintenance. Participants. 419 men and women (ages: 20 to 70 y; BMI: 20–44 kg/m2) who had intentionally lost ≥10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/bd/PMC4033559.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4165926", "abstract": "Stromal sarcoma of the prostate is very rare and shows rapid growth, which consequently is related to poor prognosis. Recently, we treated two cases of prostatic stromal sarcoma: one with robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and the other with open radical cysto-prostatectomy with an ileal conduit. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of a prostatic stromal sarcoma managed by use of a robotic procedure. Here, we report of our experiences in the treatment of prostatic stromal sarcoma by use of two different methods.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/df/kju-55-620.PMC4165926.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4280728", "abstract": "Background: The family of cancer patients experience burden of care because of their caring role. Therefore, appropriate and effective interventions are essential in order to decrease burden. The goal of the present research was to determine the effect of a family need–based program on the burden of care in caregivers of leukemia patients. Materials and Methods: In this clinical research, 70 caregivers of leukemia patients who referred to Sayed Al-Shohada Medical Center in Isfahan, Iran were chosen and divided, through convenient sampling method and using table of random numbers, into two groups, experimental and control. Caregivers of the experimental group attended five training sessions. The data collection tool of this study was the Zarit Burden Scale. It was completed by members of both groups before, immediately after, and 1 month after the intervention. The data obtained were analyzed with SPSS software. Results: During the study period, burden slowly decreased in the experimental group and increased in the control group. Mean burden of care score before, immediately after, and 1 month after the intervention was 63.6, 30.4, and 23.03, respectively, in the experimental group and 62.5, 67.3, and 68.8, respectively, in the control group. In addition, the mean burden score in the experimental group significantly decreased in comparison with the control group (P < 0.001). Conclusion: This family need–based program can decrease burden in caregivers of leukemia patients and may potentially improve the quality of life of both patients and caregivers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7f/7a/IJNMR-19-629.PMC4280728.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4625697", "abstract": "A systematic review (SR) provides the best and most objective analysis of the existing evidence in a particular field. SRs and derived conclusions are essential for evidence-based strategies in medicine and evidence-based guidelines in clinical practice. The popularity of SRs has also increased markedly in the field of hepatology. However, although SRs are considered to provide a higher level of evidence with greater confidence than original articles, there have been no reports on the quality of SRs and meta-analyses (MAs) in the field of hepatology. Therefore, we performed a quality assessment of 225 SRs and MAs that were recently published in the field of hepatology (January 2011 to September 2014) using A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR). Using AMSTAR, we revealed both a shortage of assessments of the scientific quality of individual studies and a publication bias in many SRs and MAs. This review addresses the concern that SRs and MAs need to be conducted in a stricter and more objective manner to minimize bias and random errors. Thus, SRs and MAs should be supported by a multi-disciplinary approach that includes clinical experts, methodologists, and statisticians.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5b/3e/gnl-09-701.PMC4625697.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4526605", "abstract": "Introduction Renal lower pole stones pose difficulty in management due to anatomical variation, stone size, hardness and patient demographics. Flexible ureterorenoscopy and laser lithotripsy (FURSL) and shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) are preferred for stones 1-2 cm in size. We wanted to compare the outcomes of FURSL and SWL for lower pole stones during the same time period. Material and methods All patients who were treated for lower pole stones with FURSL and SWL during a 19-month period were included. The stone free rate (SFR) was defined as ≤3 mm fragments on follow-up imaging or stone free endoscopically. Data was recorded in an excel spreadsheet with SPSS version 21 used for statistical analysis. Results A total of 161 lower pole procedures were done (93 SWL and 63 FURSL). The mean stone size for SWL (7.4 mm; range: 4-16 mm) was significantly smaller than for FURSL (13.4 mm; 4-53 mm). The mean operating time and hospital stay for FURSL was 65 minutes (range: 30-160 minutes) and 0.5 days (range: 0-7 days) respectively. The SFR was significantly better (p <0.001) for FURSL (n = 63, 93", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/63/dc/CEJU-68-00509.PMC4526605.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4866622", "abstract": "We present a unique case of separate and independent adjacent fibroepitheliomas of Pinkus (FeP) arising from the umbilicus in an 83-year-old man. Of further interest, one is pigmented and the other nonpigmented. Clinical, dermatoscopic and histopathological images are provided. A review of the published literature is undertaken to attempt to assess the incidence of pigmented versus nonpigmented FeP. Of 24 published FeP cases, 10 (41.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/73/09/PMC4866622.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2213130", "abstract": "Combinations of HLA and killer cell immunoglobulin–like receptor (KIR) genes have been associated with diseases as diverse as autoimmunity, viral infections, reproductive failure, and now cancer. Much as early observations of disease associations with HLA polymorphism preceded a detailed knowledge of HLA recognition by T cell receptors, the recently reported disease associations with HLA–KIR gene combinations beg for a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/f5/20050499.PMC2213130.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3519401", "abstract": "Study design: Systematic review. Clinical question: Do the rates and timing of adjacent segment disease (ASD) differ between cervical total disc arthroplasty (C-ADR) and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) in patients treated for cervical degenerative disc disease? Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE/PubMed and bibliographies of key articles was done to identify studies with long-term follow-up for symptomatic and/or radiographic ASD comparing C-ADR with fusion for degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine. The focus was on studies with longer follow-up (48–60 months) of primary US Food and Drug Administration trials of Prestige ST, Prodisc-C, and Bryan devices as available. Trials of other discs with a minimum of 24 months follow-up were considered for inclusion. Studies evaluating lordosis/angle changes at adjacent segments and case series were excluded. Results: From 14 citations identified, four reports from three randomized controlled trials and four nonrandomized studies are summarized. Risk differences between C-ADR and ACF for symptomatic ASD were 1.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/82/PMC3519401.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1160249", "abstract": "GENSTYLE () is a workspace designed for the characterization and classification of nucleotide sequences. Based on the genomic signature paradigm, GENSTYLE focuses on oligonucleotide frequencies in DNA sequences. Users can select sequences of interest in the GENSTYLE companion database, where the whole set of GenBank sequences is grouped per species, or upload their own sequences to work with. Tools for the exploration and analysis of signatures allow (i) identification of the origin of DNA segments (detection of rare species or species for which technical problems prevent fast characterization, such as micro-organisms with slow growth), (ii) analysis of the homogeneity of a genome and isolation of areas with novel functionality (horizontal transfers for example) – and (iii) molecular phylogeny and taxonomy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/41/dd/PMC1160249.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3870641", "abstract": "Point-of-care (POC) glucose technology is currently considered to be insufficiently accurate for the diagnosis of diabetes. The objective of this study was to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of an innovative, interference-resistant POC glucose meter (StatStrip glucose hospital meter, Nova Biomedical, USA) in subjects with a previous history of dysglycaemia, undergoing a 75 g diagnostic oral glucose tolerance test (oGTT). Venous and capillary blood sampling for the reference laboratory procedure (RLP) and POC-glucose measurement was carried out at fasting and 2 h oGTT, and categories of glucose tolerance were classified according to 2006 WHO diagnostic criteria for the respective sample type. We found an excellent between-method correlation at fasting (r = 0.9681, P < 0.0001) and 2 h oGTT (r = 0.9768, P < 0.0001) and an almost perfect diagnostic agreement (weighted Kappa = 0.858). Within a total of 237 study subjects, 137 were diagnosed with diabetes with RLP, and only 6 of them were reclassified as having glucose intolerance with POC. The diagnostic performance of POC-fasting glucose in discriminating between the normal and any category of disturbed glucose tolerance did not differ from the RLP (P = 0.081). Results of this study indicate that StatStrip POC glucose meter could serve as a reliable tool for the diabetes diagnosis, particularly in primary healthcare facilities with dispersed blood sampling services.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/7b/PMC3870641.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4198560", "abstract": "The outcome of endoscopic management of pancreatic fluid collections is dependent on the type of collection being treated. While pseudocysts have an excellent treatment response, the outcomes are modest for walled-off pancreatic necrosis. Recent advances in cross-sectional body imaging have enabled a more accurate distinction of pancreatic fluid collections, which, in turn, facilitates the correct triage of patients to receive the appropriate treatment. Newly described endoscopic techniques and the development of dedicated accessories have improved the clinical outcomes in walled-off pancreatic necrosis, with treatment success rates comparable to that of minimally invasive surgery. This review summarizes the key concepts and provides a concise update on the endoscopic management of pancreatic fluid collections.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/84/81/ce-47-429.PMC4198560.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4599455", "abstract": "Background Regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) as assessed by near infrared frontal cerebral spectroscopy decreases in circulatory arrest and increases with high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation. We hypothesized that higher rSO2 during cardiopulmonary resuscitation and after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) would predict survival to discharge and neurological recovery. Methods and Results This prospective case series included patients experiencing in-hospital cardiac arrest. Cerebral oximetry was recorded continuously from initiation of resuscitation until ROSC and up to 48 hours post-arrest. Relationships between oximetry data during these time periods and outcomes of resuscitation survival and survival to discharge were analyzed. The cohort included 27 patients. Nineteen (70.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cb/45/jah30004-e001859.PMC4599455.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4358648", "abstract": "Background Encephalitis with antibodies against N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R) is classified as an autoimmune disorder with psychotic symptoms, which are frequently dominant. However, it remains unclear how frequently NMDA-R antibodies lead to a condition that mimics psychosis and first-episode schizophrenia. In our work, we investigated the presence of antibodies against NMDA-R in patients with first-episode psychosis (FEP) in comparison with healthy volunteers. Methods This study included 50 antipsychotic-naïve patients with FEP (including 21 women) and 50 healthy volunteers (including 21 women). The mean age of the patients was 27.4 (±7.4) years and that of the healthy controls was 27.0 (±7.3) years. Antibodies against NMDA-R in the serum were detected by immunofluorescence. Results None of the investigated patients with an FEP and none of the healthy controls showed positive antibodies against NMDA-Rs. Conclusion According to results of studies, a small proportion of patients with an FEP possess antibodies against NMDA-R. However, the extent to which this finding contributes to the etiopathogenesis of the response to antipsychotic medication and whether immunomodulatory therapy is indicated in these cases remains uncertain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/8b/ndt-11-619.PMC4358648.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3363003", "abstract": "Objective Neonatal malaria is a serious cause of morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Diagnosis of neonatal malaria is difficult because of the similarity in clinical presentation with other neonatal infections. This study aim to highlight the clinical presentations and high mortality still associated with neonatal malaria. Methods Twenty four out of 41 neonates seen during a 6 months period were studied. Gestational age, age at presentation, birth weight and other clinical symptoms were documented. Questionnaires were used to collect pertinent pregnancy and perinatal history from the mothers. Data was analyzed using SPSS v18 and results expressed in tables using means, frequencies and percentages. Findings All 24 neonates, 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/89/e7/IJPD-22-087.PMC3363003.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3881780", "abstract": "Objective The aim of this study was to establish the parameters of concentration, time and mode of application of citric acid and sodium citrate in relation to root conditioning.  Material and Methods A total of 495 samples were obtained and equally distributed among 11 groups (5 for testing different concentrations of citric acid, 5 for testing different concentrations of sodium citrate and 1 control group). After laboratorial processing, the samples were analyzed under scanning electron microscopy. A previously calibrated and blind examiner evaluated micrographs of the samples. Non-parametric statistical analysis was performed to analyze the data obtained.  Results Brushing 25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/d0/jaos-20-03-0376.PMC3881780.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4831530", "abstract": "Background: The prevalence of sudden sensorineural hearing loss in children (CSSNHL) is consistently increasing. However, the pathology and prognosis of CSSNHL are still poorly understood. This retrospective study evaluated clinical characteristics and possible associated factors of CSSNHL. Methods: One hundred and thirty-six CSSNHL patients treated in Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Institute of Otolaryngology at Chinese PLA General Hospital between July 2008 and August 2015 were included in this study. These patients were analyzed for clinical characteristics, audiological characteristics, laboratory examinations, and prognostic factors. Results: Among the 136 patients (151 ears), 121 patients (121 ears, 80.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d4/f4/CMJ-129-946.PMC4831530.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4717972", "abstract": "Background: Obstetric hysterectomy (OH) as a lifesaving measure to manage uncontrolled uterine hemorrhage appears to be increasing recently. The objective of this study was to determine the etiology and changing trends of OH and to identify those at particular risk of OH to enhance the early involvement of multidisciplinary intensive care. Methods: A retrospective study was carried out in patients who had OH in China-Japan Friendship Hospital from 2004 to 2014. Maternal characteristics, preoperative evaluation, operative reports, and prenatal outcomes were studied in detail. Results: There were 19 cases of OH among a total of 18,838 deliveries. Comparing the study periods between 2004–2010 and 2011–2014, OH increased from 0.8/1000 (10/12,890) to 1.5/1000 (9/5948). Indications for OH have changed significantly during this study period with uterine atony decreasing from 50.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/f7/CMJ-128-2189.PMC4717972.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3157761", "abstract": "SD-OCT has become an essential tool for evaluating macular pathology; however several aspects of data collection and analysis affect the accuracy of retinal thickness measurements. Here we evaluated sampling density, scan centering, and axial length compensation as factors affecting the accuracy of macular thickness maps. Forty-three patients with various retinal pathologies and 113 normal subjects were imaged using Cirrus HD-OCT. Reduced B-scan density was associated with increased interpolation error in ETDRS macular thickness plots. Correcting for individual differences in axial length revealed modest errors in retinal thickness maps, while more pronounced errors were observed when the ETDRS plot was not positioned at the center of the fovea (which can occur as a result of errant fixation). Cumulative error can exceed hundreds of microns, even under “ideal observer” conditions. This preventable error is particularly relevant when attempting to compare macular thickness maps to normative databases or measuring the area or volume of retinal features.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/63/3b/PMC3157761.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3428887", "abstract": "This study considers care-seeking patterns for maternal morbidity in Mumbai's slums. Our objectives were to document women's self-reported symptoms and care-seeking, and to quantify their choice of health provider, care-seeking delays and referrals between providers. The hypothesis that care-seeking sites for maternal morbidity mirror those used for antenatal care was also tested. We analysed data for 10,754 births in 48 slum areas and interviewed mothers about their illnesses and care-seeking during pregnancy. Institutional care-seeking was high across the board (> 80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/4b/PMC3428887.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4993318", "abstract": "We report a method to prepare catalytically active Janus colloids that \"swim\" in fluids and describe how to determine their 3D motion using fluorescence microscopy. One commonly deployed method for catalytically active colloids to produce enhanced motion is via an asymmetrical distribution of catalyst. Here this is achieved by spin coating a dispersed layer of fluorescent polymeric colloids onto a flat planar substrate, and then using directional platinum vapor deposition to half coat the exposed colloid surface, making a two faced \"Janus\" structure. The Janus colloids are then re-suspended from the planar substrate into an aqueous solution containing hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide serves as a fuel for the platinum catalyst, which is decomposed into water and oxygen, but only on one side of the colloid. The asymmetry results in gradients that produce enhanced motion, or \"swimming\". A fluorescence microscope, together with a video camera is used to record the motion of individual colloids. The center of the fluorescent emission is found using image analysis to provide an x and y coordinate for each frame of the video. While keeping the microscope focal position fixed, the fluorescence emission from the colloid produces a characteristic concentric ring pattern which is subject to image analysis to determine the particles relative z position. In this way 3D trajectories for the swimming colloid are obtained, allowing swimming velocity to be accurately measured, and physical phenomena such as gravitaxis, which may bias the colloids motion to be detected. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/25/jove-113-54247.PMC4993318.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3913148", "abstract": "Potent induction of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) production results in alleviating the complications of β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD). HbF inducer agents can trigger several molecular signaling pathways critical for erythropoiesis. Janus kinase/Signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT), mitogen activated protein kinas (MAPK) and Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) are considered as main signaling pathways, which may play a significant role in HbF induction. All these signaling pathways are triggered by erythropoietin (EPO) as the main growth factor inducing erythroid differentiation, when it binds to its cell surface receptor, erythropoietin receptor (EPO-R) HbF inducer agents have been shown to upregulate HbF production level by triggering certain signaling pathways. As a result, understanding the pivotal signaling pathways influencing HbF induction leads to effective upregulation of HbF. In this mini review article, we try to consider the correlation between HbF inducer agents and their molecular mechanisms of γ-globin upregulation. Several studies suggest that activating P38 MAPK, RAS and STAT5 signaling pathways result in efficient HbF induction. Nevertheless, the role of other erythroid signaling pathways in HbF induction seems to be indispensible and should be emphasized.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/e7/IJHOSCR-7-041.PMC3913148.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4880573", "abstract": "As humans age, degenerative changes in the arterial structure gradually progress and result in the stiffening of the arteries, which is called arteriosclerosis. Arterial stiffness is now an established risk factor of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This stiffening has adverse effects for both the general population as well as for patients with CVD. Measurements of pulse wave velocity and pulse wave analysis are the two most commonly used methods in the evaluation of arterial stiffness, but these methods just allow indirect measures of arterial stiffness. Echocardiography is the most widely used imaging modality in the evaluation of cardiac structure and function and with recent technical advances, it has become possible to evaluate the structure, function and blood flow hemodynamics of the arteries using echocardiography. In the present review, we will discuss the current status of echocardiography in the evaluation of arterial stiffness, especially focusing on the methodological aspects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/25/13/cmj-52-101.PMC4880573.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5030431", "abstract": " Introduction. Community-acquired urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are usually treated empirically. Geographical variations in etiologic agents and their antibiotic sensitivity patterns are common. Knowledge of antibiotic resistance trends is important for improving evidence-based recommendations for empirical treatment of UTIs. Our aim was to determine the major bacterial etiologies of CAUTIs and their antibiotic resistance patterns in a cosmopolitan area of Cameroon for comparison with prescription practices of local physicians. Methods. We performed a cross-sectional descriptive study at two main hospitals in Yaoundé, collecting a clean-catch mid-stream urine sample from 92 patients having a clinical diagnosis of UTI. The empirical antibiotherapy was noted, and identification of bacterial species was done on CLED agar; antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Results. A total of 55 patients had samples positive for a UTI. Ciprofloxacin and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid were the most empirically prescribed antibiotics (30.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a8/7a/PMC5030431.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4307876", "abstract": "Ictal asystole is frequently underrecognized despite being a potentially lethal condition. We report two cases of ictal asystole with right hemispheric onset. These cases are unique since previous literature reports that seizures associated with bradyarrhythmias typically arise from left hemispheric foci. These cases further underscore the importance of clinical vigilance and the need of an enhanced diagnostic biomarker.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/94/main.PMC4307876.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2764348", "abstract": "Karyotypes and chromosomal data are presented for eight bat species representing two families (Rhinolophidae and Vespertilionidae) from Hainan Island, China. The species investigated were Rhinolophus lepidus (2n = 62, FN = 60), R. pusillus (2n = 62, FN = 60), R. affinis (2n = 62, FN = 60), R. sinicus (2n = 36, FN = 60), Myotis horsfieldi (2n = 44, FN = 52), Pipistrellus abramus (2n = 26, FN = 44), Miniopterus australis (2n = 46, FN = 50) and M. schreibersii (2n = 46, FN = 50). The karyotype of Rhinolophus lepidus is reported for the first time.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/9e/ijbsv05p0659.PMC2764348.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3409531", "abstract": "Fusidic acid is a common therapy for staphylococcal infections in Saudi Arabia, but reports have suggested high rates of resistance among clinical isolates. Susceptibility testing of S. aureus to fusidic acid is further complicated by the lack of consensus on mean inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and disk diffusion cutoffs to determine resistance. The purpose of this study was to determine the correlation between disk diffusion and Etest determined MIC susceptibility results in clinical isolates of S. aureus from a large academic hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Our data demonstrate excellent correlation between Etest determined MIC and disk diffusion susceptibility data, using either previously proposed zone sizes of ≥21 mm as susceptible and ≤18 mm as resistant or the EUCAST recommended zone size of ≤24 mm for resistance, in an area with relatively high rates of fusidic acid resistance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/55/PMC3409531.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4608662", "abstract": "Aim The aim of this study was to analyze which variables predicted nursing home admission (NHA) and death. Methods 1,001 recipients of domiciliary care were assessed three times in a 3-year period. Through bivariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models, associations between a covariate and the outcomes were analyzed. Results Participants with dementia had a higher risk of NHA (odds ratio 3.88, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/28/9f/dee-0005-0320.PMC4608662.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3657443", "abstract": " Objective. The purpose of this review of the literature was to summarise studies regarding the psychosocial impact of growing up with a sibling with autism and to identify gaps in the related literature. Methods. Electronic databases were reviewed in order to critically appraise the 14 articles relevant to the topic. The search included a combination of the following key words: autism∗, quality of life, well-being, sibling∗, ASD, ASD sibling∗, family, adjust∗, psychological functioning. Results. The majority of studies involved mixed children and adolescent samples, leading to confounding results and an inability to draw accurate conclusions about these distinct life stages. Autism appears to contribute to unique environmental stressors for the typically developing sibling. When experienced in the context of additional demographic risk factors, these stressors can result in difficulties adjusting to the demands of a special-needs child. Despite some vulnerability to behavioural and emotional dysfunction in at-risk children, siblings have the potential to not only adjust but to thrive in the face of disability adversity. Conclusion. Growing up with a sibling with autism appears to manifest in both positive and negative outcomes for siblings, depending upon important demographical, family, and individual variables.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/83/PMC3657443.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC539986", "abstract": "The Immuno Polymorphism Database (IPD) (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/ipd/) is a set of specialist databases related to the study of polymorphic genes in the immune system. IPD currently consists of four databases: IPD-KIR, contains the allelic sequences of Killer-cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptors; IPD-MHC, a database of sequences of the Major Histocompatibility Complex of different species; IPD-HPA, alloantigens expressed only on platelets; and IPD-ESTAB, which provides access to the European Searchable Tumour Cell-Line Database, a cell bank of immunologically characterized melanoma cell lines. The IPD project works with specialist groups or nomenclature committees who provide and curate individual sections before they are submitted to IPD for online publication. The IPD project stores all the data in a set of related databases. Those sections with similar data, such as IPD-KIR and IPD-MHC share the same database structure. The sharing of a common database structure makes it easier to implement common tools for data submission and retrieval. The data are currently available online from the website and ftp directory; files will also be made available in different formats to download from the website and ftp server. The data will also be included in SRS, BLAST and FASTA search engines at the European Bioinformatics Institute.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ce/38/PMC539986.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4745655", "abstract": " Introduction. Evidence of inappropriate bone mineral density (BMD) testing has been identified in terms of overtesting in low risk women and undertesting among patients at high risk. In light of these phenomena, the objective of this study was to understand the referral patterns for BMD testing among Ontario's family physicians (FPs). Methods. A qualitative descriptive approach was adopted. Twenty-two FPs took part in a semi-structured interview lasting approximately 30 minutes. An inductive thematic analysis was performed on the transcribed data in order to understand the referral patterns for BMD testing. Results. We identified a lack of clarity about screening for osteoporosis with a tendency for baseline BMD testing in healthy, postmenopausal women and a lack of clarity on the appropriate age for screening for men in particular. A lack of clarity on appropriate intervals for follow-up testing was also described. Conclusions. These findings lend support to what has been documented at the population level suggesting a tendency among FPs to refer menopausal women (at low risk). Emphasis on referral of high-risk groups as well as men and further clarification and education on the appropriate intervals for follow-up testing is warranted.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f1/cb/PMC4745655.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4419237", "abstract": "Hormones and peptides involved in glucose homeostasis are emerging as important modulators of neural plasticity. In this regard, increasing evidence shows that molecules such as insulin, insulin-like growth factor-I, glucagon-like peptide-1, and ghrelin impact on the function of the hippocampus, which is a key area for learning and memory. Indeed, all these factors affect fundamental hippocampal properties including synaptic plasticity (i.e., synapse potentiation and depression), structural plasticity (i.e., dynamics of dendritic spines), and adult neurogenesis, thus leading to modifications in cognitive performance. Here, we review the main mechanisms underlying the effects of glucose metabolism on hippocampal physiology. In particular, we discuss the role of these signals in the modulation of cognitive functions and their potential implications in dysmetabolism-related cognitive decline.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0f/c7/PMC4419237.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4868245", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study systematically reviewed the antalgic effects of non-invasive physical modalities (NIPMs) on central post-stroke pain (CPSP). [Subjects and Methods] Clinical studies were sought on September 2015 in 10 electronic databases, including Medline and Scopus. The searching strings were “central pain and stroke” and “treatment, and physical or non-pharmacological”. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were set for screening the clinical articles by two reviewers. Pain scores on visual analog scale in an article were used as the outcome measure for resulting judgment. The NIPMs intervention summarized from the eligible articles was rated from Levels A to C according to Evidence Classification Scheme for Therapeutic Interventions. [Results] Over 1200 articles were identified in the initial searches and 85 studies were retrieved. Sixteen studies were eligible and judged. Caloric vestibular stimulation (n=3), heterotopic noxious conditioning stimulation (n=1), and transcutaneous electrical stimulation (n=1) were rated below Level C. Transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS; n=2) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS; n=9) were rated as Level B. [Conclusion] The findings suggest that TMS and TDCS were better than other treatments for CPSP relief but the studies were of insufficient quality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/2e/jpts-28-1368.PMC4868245.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4477211", "abstract": " Background and Aim. Leptin has two forms in the circulation: free and bound forms. The soluble leptin receptor (sOB-R) circulates in the blood and can bind to leptin. The aim of this study is to assess the concentrations of the leptin and the sOB-R in PCOS and its relation to adiposity, insulin resistance, and androgens. Methods. A cross-sectional study included 78 female students aged 17–25 years. Fasting serum leptin and sOB-R concentrations were measured. The anthropometric variables and the hormonal profile such as insulin, female and male sex hormones, and prolactin were assessed. Results. In PCOS, leptin level (ng/ml) and free leptin index (FLI) increased significantly while sOB-R (ng/ml) significantly decreased compared to control subjects. In age-matched subjects, obese PCOS had increased leptin level in ng/ml (median level with interquartile levels) of 45.67 (41.98–48.04) and decreased sOB-R in ng/ml 11.47 (7.59–16.44) compared to lean PCOS 16.97 (10.60–45.55) for leptin and 16.62 (11.61–17.96) for sOB-R with p values 0.013 and 0.042, respectively. However, body mass index (BMI) is significantly correlated with leptin and s-OBR, while no significant correlations with parameters of insulin resistance were detected. Conclusion. PCOS is associated with hyperleptinemia and increased free leptin index. Decreased sOB-R could be a compensatory mechanism for the defective action of leptin.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/61/a0/PMC4477211.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4075838", "abstract": "In view of the tragic fire at a nightclub in the city of Santa Maria, Brazil, which culminated in the sudden death of 232 young people, we decided to review the literature regarding smoke inhalation injury caused by enclosed-space fires, which can be divided into direct thermal damage, carbon monoxide poisoning, and cyanide poisoning. Such injuries often call for immediate orotracheal intubation, either due to acute airway obstruction or due to a reduced level of consciousness. The diagnosis and the severity of the thermal injury can be determined by fiberoptic bronchoscopy. The levels of gases and gas by-products in the bloodstream should be assessed as rapidly as possible, even while still at the scene of the incident. First responders can also treat carbon monoxide poisoning, with immediate administration of oxygen at 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/55/1806-3713-jbpneu-39-03-00373.PMC4075838.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4804405", "abstract": "Objectives: There is a need to remove excess iron with iron chelation therapy (ICT) to avoid the serious clinical sequelae associated with iron overload in patients with beta thalassemia major (BTM) and sickle cell anemia (SCA). Due to the effects of the diseases and their treatments, ICT is still a major reason for unsatisfactory compliance. The aim of this single-center observational study was to evaluate the quality of life, clinical effectiveness, and satisfaction in pediatric and adult patients with BTM and SCA receiving deferasirox (DFX) chelation therapy. Methods: In this study, 37 pediatric and 35 adult patients with BTM or SCA receiving DFX for at least 6 months participated. Upon receipt of Informed Consent Form, Case Report Form, Demographic Data Collection Form, Child Health Questionnaire-Parent Form, Life Quality Survey Short Form-36, and ICT Satisfaction Survey were used to obtain data for the effectiveness of ICT and parameters that may affect compliance to treatment and life quality of the participants. Results: As a main index for the effectiveness of DFX chelation therapy, serum ferritin levels were higher than the normal values in the patients receiving DFX. The increased ferritin levels were also associated with hematological and biochemical abnormalities. Our findings regarding quality of life and satisfaction with DFX chelation therapy indicated that the patients with BTM or SCA had lower scores. Overall, problems with treatment regimen and side effects appeared to be common causes of poor compliance to DFX chelation therapy. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that health care providers should be aware of the importance of monitoring iron load with timely initiation of DFX chelation therapy and ongoing adjustments to chelation regimens and/or transfusion methods to decrease hospitalizations and improve compliance to ICT of the patients with BTM and SCA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/78/JBCP-7-49.PMC4804405.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4636526", "abstract": "Objectives The purpose was to determine prevalence of enchondromas and atypical cartilaginous tumour/chondrosarcoma grade 1 (ACT/CS1) of the knee on MRI in a large cohort study, namely the Netherlands Epidemiology of Obesity (NEO) study. Methods Participants aged 45 to 65 years were prospectively included, oversampling overweight and obese persons. Within a subgroup of participants, MRI of the right knee was performed and screened for incidental cartilaginous tumours, as defined by their characteristic location and appearance. Results Forty-nine cartilaginous tumours were observed in 44 out of 1285 participants (estimated population prevalence 2.8 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/64/14/330_2015_Article_3764.PMC4636526.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3182001", "abstract": "In the pragmatic-explanatory continuum, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) can at one extreme investigate whether a treatment could work in ideal circumstances (explanatory), or at the other extreme, whether it would work in everyday practice (pragmatic). How explanatory or pragmatic a study is can have implications for clinicians, policy makers, patients, researchers, funding bodies, and the public. There is an increasing need for studies to be open and pragmatic; however, explanatory trials are also needed. The previously developed Pragmatic-explanatory continuum indicator summary (PRECIS) was adapted into the Pragmascope tool to assist mental health researchers in designing RCTs, taking the pragmatic-explanatory continuum into account. Ten mental health trial protocols were randomly chosen and scored using the tool by three independent raters. Their results were compared for consistency and the tool was found to be reliable and practical. This preliminary work suggests that evaluating different domains of an RCT at the protocol level is useful, and suggests that using the Pragmascope tool presented here might be a practical way of doing this.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/35/DialoguesClinNeurosci-13-209.PMC3182001.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4831400", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Severe recessive mitochondrial myopathy caused by FBXL4 gene mutations may present prenatally with polyhydramnios and cerebellar hypoplasia. Characteristic dysmorphic features are: high and arched eyebrows, triangular face, a slight upslant of palpebral fissures, and a prominent pointed chin. Metabolic investigations invariably show increased serum lactate and pyruvate levels.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/43/3b/CCR3-4-425.PMC4831400.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4721891", "abstract": "Background and Aims: While traditional risk factors for the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) relate to metabolic syndrome, several Asian studies have suggested a high rate of de novo NAFLD following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). The aim of this study is to identify de novo NAFLD after pancreatic surgery and its associated risk factors. Methods: A retrospective cohort of patients at a single center that underwent PD or distal pancreatectomy (DP) over 7 years was identified. Pre- and postoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans of the abdomen were reviewed, including attenuation measurements of the liver, spleen, and muscle. Primary outcomes included hepatic attenuation, liver to muscle ratio (LMR), and liver to spleen ratio (LSR). Results: Of the 96 patients (mean age 64.3) included, 70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e6/4a/JCTH-3-246.PMC4721891.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3782583", "abstract": "Purpose Recent reports suggest the association of human papilloma virus (HPV) with retinoblastoma. This study was performed to elucidate whether HPV infection is related to retinoblastoma among Koreans. Methods A total of 54 cases diagnosed with retinoblastoma were enrolled from Seoul National University Children's Hospital and Seoul Metropolitan Government-Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center. Presence of human papilloma viral DNA was detected by in situ hybridization in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded retinoblastoma tissues using both probes against high- and low risk HPV types. Results The mean age at diagnosis was 22.0 months (range, 1.1 to 98.0 months), and the mean age at enucleation was 27.8 months (range, 1.5 to 112.7 months) among the 54 patients with retinoblastoma. HPV was not detected in any of the retinoblastoma samples using either high risk or low risk HPV probes. Conclusions Our study, being the first study in the Korean population, proposes that HPV infection may have no causal relationship with retinoblastoma in Koreans.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/eb/a7/kjo-27-368.PMC3782583.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3072672", "abstract": "Interleukin-7 (IL-7) is an essential cytokine for T cells. However, IL-7 is not produced by T cells themselves such that T cells are dependent on extrinsic IL-7. In fact, in the absence of IL-7, T cell development in the thymus as well as survival of naive T cells in the periphery is severely impaired. Furthermore, modulating IL-7 availability in vivo either by genetic means or other experimental approaches determines the size, composition and function of the T cell pool. Consequently, understanding IL-7 expression is critical for understanding T cell immunity. Until most recently, however, the spatiotemporal expression of in vivo IL-7 has remained obscured. Shortage of such information was partly due to scarce expression of IL-7 itself but mainly due to the lack of adequate reagents to monitor IL-7 expression in vivo. This situation dramatically changed with a recent rush of four independent studies that describe the generation and characterization of IL-7 reporter mice, all utilizing bacterial artificial chromosome transgene technology. The emerging consensus of these studies confirmed thymic stromal cells as the major producers of IL-7 but also identified IL-7 reporter activities in various peripheral tissues including skin, intestine and lymph nodes. Strikingly, developmental and environmental cues actively modulated IL-7 reporter activities in vivo suggesting that IL-7 regulation might be a new mechanism of shaping T cell development and homeostasis. Collectively, the availability of these new tools opens up new venues to assess unanswered questions in IL-7 biology in T cells and beyond.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/79/in-11-1.PMC3072672.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2984521", "abstract": "BACKGROUND Though implant dentistry is very successful and predictable in treatment of patients with destroyed dentition, there are some cases with limitations to implant therapy. In these cases, alternative treatment modality should be considered. CASE DESCRIPTION A patient with destroyed dentition was rehabilitated with a lateral rotational path removable partial denture. According to the diagnosis, we determined to raise vertical dimension for esthetic and functional restoration. The final restoration was performed after four months of provisional period. CLINICAL IMPLICATION The edentulous patients with compromised esthetics and functions can be successfully treated with a rotational path removable partial denture through adequate treatment planning and precise laboratory procedure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/8b/jap-2-46.PMC2984521.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4969236", "abstract": "Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) is a chromosome disorder (4p-syndrome) which is characterized by craniofacial features and epileptic seizures. Here, we report a case of WHS with West syndrome, in whom the seizures were refractory to several antiepileptic drugs but were responsive to the addition of lamotrigine. The patient had epileptic spasms at age seven months. The interictal electroencephalogram was hypsarrhythmic. After adding lamotrigine, seizures decreased remarkably, and spasms disappeared. We have identified and described the very rare case of a girl with WHS who also developed West syndrome. In this case, adding lamotrigine to her medications effectively treated the spasms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/a9/main.PMC4969236.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4851516", "abstract": "The increasing progress in medical and health sciences has enhanced patient survival over the years. However, increased longevity without quality of life in terminally ill patients has been a challenging issue for care providers, especially nurses, since they are required to determine the futility or effectiveness of treatments. Futile care refers to the provision of medical care with futile therapeutic outcomes for the patient. Interest in this phenomenon has grown rapidly over the years. In this study, we aimed to review and identify nurses’ perceptions of futile care, based on available scientific resources. In total, 135 articles were retrieved through searching scientific databases (with no time restrictions), using relevant English and Farsi keywords. Finally, 16 articles, which were aligned with the study objectives, were selected and evaluated in this study. Overlapping studies were excluded or integrated, based on the research team’s opinion. According to the literature, futile care cannot be easily defined in medical sciences, and ethical dilemmas surrounding this phenomenon are very complex. Considering the key role of nurses in patient care and end-of-life decision-making and their great influence on the attitudes of patients and their families, support and counseling services on medical futility and the surrounding ethical issues are necessary for these members of healthcare teams.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e7/f3/MSM-28-151.PMC4851516.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4222618", "abstract": "Magnetic seizure therapy (MST) has shown efficacy in adult patients with treatment-resistant depression with limited impairment in memory. To date, the use of MST in adolescent depression has not been reported. Here we describe the first successful use of MST in the treatment of an adolescent patient with refractory bipolar depression. This patient received MST in an ongoing open-label study for treatment-resistant major depression. Treatments employed a twin-coil MST apparatus, with the center of each coil placed over the frontal cortex (ie, each coil centered over F3 and F4). MST was applied at 100 Hz and 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/9e/ndt-10-2049.PMC4222618.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5045833", "abstract": "Introduction Mebendazole is an effective drug widely used in the treatment of parasitic infections. Although theoretically considered as safe during lactation, no studies have evaluated its potential adverse effects in infants of breastfeeding mothers. Objectives We aimed to evaluate the safety of mebendazole in infants of lactating women treated with the drug. Methods Women referred for consultation regarding mebendazole use were invited to participate in the study. Overall 45 lactating women treated with various protocols of mebendazole were recruited in this case series study. Results Regardless of the treatment protocol used (single or repeated doses) mebendazole was well tolerated and was not associated with any adverse effects in infants of lactating mothers. There was mild GI irritability in two treated women. Conclusion This study provides first evidence in humans as to the safety of mebendazole in breastfeeding. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s40268-016-0142-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/97/2f/40268_2016_Article_142.PMC5045833.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5342315", "abstract": "The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of test trial and processing level on immediate and delayed retention. A 2 × 2 × 2 mixed ANOVAs was used with two between-subject factors of test trial (single test, repeated test) and processing level (shallow, deep), and one within-subject factor of final recall (immediate, delayed). Seventy-six college students were randomly assigned first to the single test (studied the stimulus words three times and took one free-recall test) and the repeated test trials (studied the stimulus words once and took three consecutive free-recall tests), and then to the shallow processing level (asked whether each stimulus word was presented in capital letter or in small letter) and the deep processing level (whether each stimulus word belonged to a particular category) to study forty stimulus words. The immediate test was administered five minutes after the trials, whereas the delayed test was administered one week later. Results showed that single test trial recalled more words than repeated test trial in immediate final free-recall test, participants in deep processing performed better than those in shallow processing in both immediate and delayed retention. However, the dominance of single test trial and deep processing did not happen in delayed retention. Additional study trials did not further enhance the delayed retention of words encoded in deep processing, but did enhance the delayed retention of words encoded in shallow processing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/21/34/PMC5342315.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3010708", "abstract": "Bacterial Artificial Chromosomes (BACs) are vital tools in mouse genomic analyses because of their ability to propagate large inserts. The size of these constructs, however, prevents the use of conventional molecular biology techniques for modification and manipulation. Techniques such as recombineering and Cre/Lox methodologies have thus become heavily relied upon for such purposes. In this work, we investigate the applicability of Lox variant sites for serial and/or simultaneous manipulations of BACs. We show that Lox spacer mutants are very specific, and inverted repeat variants reduce Lox reaction rates through reducing the affinity of Cre for the site, while retaining some functionality. Employing these methods, we produced serial modifications encompassing four independent changes which generated a mouse HoxB BAC with fluorescent reporter proteins inserted into four adjacent Hox genes. We also generated specific, simultaneous deletions using combinations of spacer variants and inverted repeat variants. These techniques will facilitate BAC manipulations and open a new repertoire of methods for BAC and genome manipulation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/50/4d/PMC3010708.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3763140", "abstract": "Systemic effect of two plant growth-promoting rhizobacterial (PGPR) strains,viz., Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pf4) and P. aeruginosa (Pag), was evaluated on pea (Pisum sativum) against the powdery mildew pathogen Erysiphe pisi. Foliar spray of the two PGPR strains was done on specific nodal leaves of pea and conidial germination of E. pisi was observed on other nodal leaves,distal to the treated ones. Conidial germination was reduced on distant leaves and at the same time,specific as well as total phenolic compounds increased in the leaves distal to those applied with PGPR strains,thereby indicating a positive correlation. The strains induced accumulation of phenolic compounds in pea leaves and the amount increased when such leaves were get inoculated with E. pisi conidia. Between the two strains, Pag was found to be more effective than Pf4 as its effect was more persistent in pea leaves. Foliar application of PGPR strains for the control of powdery mildew of pea is demonstrated in vitro while correlating it with the increased accumulation of plant phenolics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/4c/mb-35-129.PMC3763140.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3508742", "abstract": "It has been reported that microperimetry is effective for evaluating macular function. The aim of this paper is to report and discuss changes seen in macular sensitivity and macular thickness after intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) in two patients with macular edema and central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Two eyes from two patients with CRVO (one each with ischemic and nonischemic CRVO) received IVTA for macular edema. Microperimetry was performed to measure macular sensitivity within the central 4, 10, and 20 degree fields, while the macular thickness within these fields was measured by optical coherence tomography. The mean macular thickness and macular sensitivity within the central 4, 10, and 20 degree fields improved after IVTA in the patient with nonischemic CRVO. In contrast, the mean macular thickness and sensitivity within the central 4, 10, and 20 degree fields showed little change after IVTA in the patient with ischemic CRVO. IVTA improves macular sensitivity and morphology in nonischemic CRVO, so further evaluation of this treatment is justified.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7a/4b/PMC3508742.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3873170", "abstract": "Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is an aggressive myeloid neoplasm derived from plasmacytoid monocytes. The most common presentation involves cutaneous manifestations, which are often accompanied by bone marrow involvement. The tumor cells reveal an immature blastic appearance and diagnosis is based on the expression of cluster of differentiation (CD)4 and CD56. The literature reports a high relapse rate and poor prognosis when treated with leukemia-type induction chemotherapy alone; however, long-term remission is attainable with allogeneic stem cell transplantation in the first complete remission. Here, we report the dismal course of a patient with BPDCN with cutaneous and bone marrow involvement unable to undergo an aggressive intervention.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bf/e3/PMC3873170.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4757709", "abstract": " Purpose. To investigate outcomes after coaxial 2.2 mm small incision cataract surgery combined with hybrid 25-27-gauge vitrectomy in eyes with vitreoretinal disease and age-related cataract. Methods. A single-center, retrospective case series study of 55 subjects (55 eyes) with a mean age of 70 years who underwent combined small incision phacoemulsification, intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, and hybrid 25-27-gauge vitrectomy during the 12-month period to December 2014. Intraoperative and postoperative complications and visual results were the main outcome measures. Results. The mean follow-up period was 6 months (range: 2–18 months). Intraoperative findings were 3 retinal breaks (5.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/9a/PMC4757709.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4560298", "abstract": "We report 2 cases of ulcerative colitis (UC) with intestinal tract dilatation treated with tacrolimus. They were 53- and 64-year-old males, who had been admitted to local hospitals for increasing severity of their UC symptoms. Treatment for severe UC was immediately started, but both cases were refractory to corticosteroid therapy; they were then transferred to our hospital. When they were referred to our hospital, they had frequent bloody diarrhea, fever, severe abdominal pain, and even dilatation of the transverse colon on abdominal X-ray test. They were treated with oral tacrolimus medication, and their symptoms improved immediately. Dilatation of the transverse colon was improved on plain X-ray at 2 weeks after starting therapy, and emergency colectomy could be avoided. These 2 cases may suggest that tacrolimus is effective for UC with colonic dilatation as a rescue therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/f9/crg-0009-0272.PMC4560298.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5020350", "abstract": "Warm atomic vapor quantum memories are simple and robust, yet suffer from a number of parasitic processes which produce excess noise. For operating in a single-photon regime precise filtering of the output light is essential. Here, we report a combination of magnetically tuned absorption and Faraday filters, both light–direction insensitive, which stop the driving lasers and attenuate spurious fluorescence and four-wave mixing while transmitting narrowband Stokes and anti-Stokes photons generated in write-in and readout processes. We characterize both filters with respect to adjustable working parameters. We demonstrate a significant increase in the signal-to-noise ratio upon applying the filters seen qualitatively in measurements of correlation between the Raman scattered photons.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/9b/tmop-63-2029.PMC5020350.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2467434", "abstract": "False-positive results are inherent in the scientific process of testing hypotheses concerning the determinants of cancer and other human illnesses. Although much of what is known about the etiology of human cancers has arisen from well-conducted epidemiological studies, epidemiology has been increasingly criticized for producing findings that are often sensationalized in the media and fail to be upheld in subsequent studies. Herein we describe examples from cancer epidemiology of likely false-positive findings and discuss conditions under which such results may occur. We suggest general guidelines or principles, including the endorsement of editorial policies requiring the prominent listing of study caveats, which may help reduce the reporting of misleading results. Increased epistemological humility regarding findings in epidemiology would go a long way to diminishing the detrimental effects of false-positive results on the allocation of limited research resources, on the advancement of knowledge of the causes and prevention of cancer, and on the scientific reputation of epidemiology and would help to prevent oversimplified interpretations of results by the media and the public.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/53/djn191.PMC2467434.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4355553", "abstract": " Purpose. To understand the role of polymorphisms in the LEP (rs7799039 and rs2167270) and LEPR (rs1137101 and rs1137100) genes in DTC susceptibility and their effect on leptin levels. Methods. We studied 153 patients with DTC and 234 controls through TaqMan SNP Genotyping and ELISA, comparing these data to the clinicopathological data of patients with DTC. Results. Patients with AA genotype of rs7799039 had higher levels of serum leptin (9.22 ± 0.98 ng/mL) than those with AG genotype (10.07 ± 0.60 ng/mL; P = 0.005). Individuals with AG genotype of rs2167270 also produced higher serum leptin levels (10.05 ± 0.59 ng/mL) than the subjects with GG genotype (9.52 ± 0.79 ng/mL; P < 0.05). A multivariate logistic regression adjusted for gender, age, and BMI showed that the AG genotype of rs7799039 was an independent risk for DTC (OR, 11.689; P = 0.0183; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/14/28/PMC4355553.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4303483", "abstract": " Study Design Systematic literature review.  Objective The management of traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures (TLBF) remains challenging, and analyzing the levels of evidence (LOEs) for treatment practices can reform the decision-making process. However, no review has yet evaluated the operative management of traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures with particular attention placed on LOE from an established methodology. The objective of the present study was to characterize the literature evidence for TLBF, specifically for operative management.  Methods A comprehensive search of the English literature over the past 20 years was conducted using PubMed (MEDLINE). The inclusion criteria consisted of (1) traumatic burst fractures (2) in the thoracic or lumbar spine. Exclusion criteria included (1) osteoporotic burst fractures, (2) pathologic burst fractures, (3) cervical fractures, (4) biomechanical studies or those involving cadavers, and (5) computer-based studies. Studies were assigned an LOE and those meeting level 1 or 2 were included.  Results From 1,138 abstracts, 272 studies met the criteria. Twenty-three studies (8.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/e0/PMC4303483.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4897540", "abstract": " Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the location, timing, and frequency of glove perforation during hip replacement arthroplasty. Methods. Gloves worn by surgical team members in 19 primary hip replacement arthroplasties were assessed. The study was of a single gloving system. All the used gloves were collected at the end of the surgery and assessed visually and by using water inflation technique. Relevant data were collected at the time of surgery. Results. A total of one hundred and ninety-one surgical gloves were evaluated. Twenty-three glove perforations were noted in nineteen of the operations. Of these perforations 14 belonged to gloves worn by surgeon and first assistant (60.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/65/c5/PMC4897540.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4524453", "abstract": "Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that predominates during the later stages of cystic fibrosis (CF) lung infections. Over many years of chronic lung colonization, P. aeruginosa undergoes extensive adaptation to the lung environment, evolving both toward a persistent, low virulence state and simultaneously diversifying to produce a number of phenotypically distinct morphs. These lung-adapted P. aeruginosa strains include the small colony variants (SCVs), small, autoaggregative isolates that show enhanced biofilm formation, strong attachment to surfaces, and increased production of exopolysaccharides. Their appearance in the sputum of CF patients correlates with increased resistance to antibiotics, poor lung function, and prolonged persistence of infection, increasing their relevance as a subject for clinical investigation. The evolution of SCVs in the CF lung is associated with overproduction of the ubiquitous bacterial signaling molecule cyclic-di-GMP, with increased cyclic-di-GMP levels shown to be responsible for the SCV phenotype in a number of different CF lung isolates. Here, we review the current state of research in clinical P. aeruginosa SCVs. We will discuss the phenotypic characteristics underpinning the SCV morphotype, the clinical implications of lung colonization with SCVs, and the molecular basis and clinical evolution of the SCV phenotype in the CF lung environment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/33/23/idr-8-237.PMC4524453.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649586", "abstract": "Obstruction is the most common surgical disorder of the small bowel. Complete small bowel obstruction (SBO) is usually treated surgically because bowel strangulation cannot be excluded with certainty. Acute SBO has been previously considered a relative contraindication for laparoscopic management especially due to the laparotomy conversion rate. We present a case of SBO for which laparoscopic management resulted in earlier return of bowel function, shorter hospital stay, faster overall recovery, and decreased morbidity when compared to laparotomy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/fe/PMC3649586.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5044707", "abstract": "Abstract Pancreatic cancer, mostly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), is a leading cause of cancer-related death in the US, with a dismal median survival of 6 months. Thus, there is an urgent unmet need to identify ways to diagnose and to treat this deadly cancer. Although a number of genetic changes have been identified in pancreatic cancer, their mechanisms of action in tumor development, progression and metastasis are not completely understood. Hedgehog signaling, which plays a major role in embryonic development and stem cell regulation, is known to be activated in pancreatic cancer; however, specific inhibitors targeting the smoothened molecule failed to improve the condition of pancreatic cancer patients in clinical trials. Furthermore, results regarding the role of Hh signaling in pancreatic cancer are controversial with some reporting tumor promoting activities whereas others tumor suppressive actions. In this review, we will summarize what we know about hedgehog signaling in pancreatic cancer, and try to explain the contradicting roles of hedgehog signaling as well as the reason(s) behind the failed clinical trials. In addition to the canonical hedgehog signaling, we will also discuss several non-canonical hedgehog signaling mechanisms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f4/cb/PMC5044707.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4595366", "abstract": "The leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with acromegaly is cardiovascular complications. Myocardial exposure to excessive growth hormone can cause ventricular hypertrophy, hypertension, arrhythmia, and diastolic dysfunction. However, congestive heart failure as a result of systolic dysfunction is observed only rarely in patients with acromegaly. Most cases of acromegaly exhibit high levels of serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Acromegaly with normal IGF-1 levels is rare and difficult to diagnose. Here, we report a rare case of an acromegalic patient whose first clinical manifestation was severe congestive heart failure, despite normal IGF-1 levels. We diagnosed acromegaly using a glucose-loading growth hormone suppression test. Cardiac function and myocardial hypertrophy improved 6 months after transsphenoidal resection of a pituitary adenoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bc/1a/enm-30-395.PMC4595366.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3526761", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the efficacy of the direct arthroscopic excision of a popliteal cyst without additional skin incision using a posteromedial portal based on minimum 2 year follow-up clinical results. Materials and Methods From January 2003 to January 2010, 105 patients (111 cases) with popliteal cyst have been treated by a direct arthroscopic excision. Direct arthroscopic excision using a 70 degree arthroscopy and posteromedial portal can correct the valvular mechanism of capsular fold and reduce the complications with no additional skin incision at the popliteal area. In all cases, preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed to detect combined intraarticular pathology. At 2 years postoperatively, a follow-up ultrasonography or MRI was performed to detect the recurrence of cysts. We used Rauschning and Lindgren criteria for clinical evaluation. Results All cases had neither recurrence nor complaints of pain, swelling, or functional impairment more than 2 years after the surgery. At ultrasonography or MRI, no recurrence was found, and 5 complications were 1 skin lesion and 4 hematoma. Postoperatively, Rauschning and Lindgren criteria were more than grade 1. Conclusions Direct arthroscopic excision using 70 degree arthroscope and posteromedial portal is an effective method for the treatment of popliteal cyst.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/59/ksrr-24-235.PMC3526761.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3841275", "abstract": "Objective The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy and perioperative complications associated with lumbar spinal fusion surgery, focusing on geriatric patients in the Republic of Korea. Methods We retrospectively investigated 485 patients with degenerative spinal diseases who had lumbar spinal fusion surgeries between March 2006 and December 2010 at our institution. Age, sex, comorbidity, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class, fusion segments, perioperative complications, and outcomes were analyzed in this study. Risk factors for complications and their association with age were analyzed. Results In this study, 81 patients presented complications (16.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/d2/jkns-54-323.PMC3841275.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4522049", "abstract": "Acalculous cholecystitis is a rare but life-threatening disease, but its pathogenesis is not fully revealed yet. We experienced two acalculous cholecystitis cases associated with aortic dissection. In Case 1, acalculous cholecystitis occurred just after the exacerbation of the aortic dissection. Laparotomy showed necrotized cholecystitis with fresh thrombi formation. Case 2 developed acalculous cholecystitis on the 65th hospital day of aortic dissection. Laparotomy revealed the perforation of the gallbladder. Histological study revealed fibrosis and hemosiderosis in the subserosal layer. The histological findings of these two patients are quite different: Case 1 is acute ischemic and Case 2 is chronic ischemic. While a few cases of acute ischemic cholecystitis have been reported previously, chronic acalculous cholecystitis (CAC) has not been documented. History of aortic dissection could be a risk factor of acute and CAC due to relatively decreased splanchnic blood flow.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/88/rjv101.PMC4522049.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3410359", "abstract": "Objectives; Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common and well established complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Its presence is associated with decreased survival. This study was designed to investigate the PH frequency and its relations in hospitalized tobacco and biomass related COPD patients. Methods and Results; The study was a retrospective review of inpatients with COPD defined as a history of tobacco or biomass smoking, Pulmonary function tests (PFT) within stable status, an echocardiogram within stable status. PH was defined as systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) >35 mmHg. Of the 694 individuals, 600 had suitable aspects for inclusion of study. All Females were biomass exposer and males were tobacco smoker. The Prevalence of PH was found more frequent in females than males. It was more prominent in moderate level COPD cases (56,2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/81/49/ijmsv09p0406.PMC3410359.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4148563", "abstract": "The paper provides a review about the orofacial injuries sustained during sports and the options available to the athletes for their prevention. It was done with a purpose to determine three different aspects incidence of dental injury during sporting activities, role of mouthguards in preventing sports injury, types of mouthguards and their properties. From this review, it is clear that sports carry a considerable risk of injury, this is not only true for the contact sports such as rugby or kickboxing, but also for seemingly less dangerous sports such as football. Amongst the different types of mouthguards, the most acceptable and safe ones are the custom-fabricated mouthguards, in particular the pressure-laminated ones. In general, mouthguard usage is less than the dental profession would recommend. As much of progress has been made in this area, need for the use of mouthguard needs to be emphasized and promoted by the dental profession.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/ce/JIOH-6-104.PMC4148563.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3447833", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To determine the effects of soy milk consumption compared with cow’s milk on inflammation, coagulation, and oxidative stress among patients with diabetic nephropathy. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This randomized, crossover clinical trial was conducted on 25 type 2 diabetic patients with nephropathy. This study had two trial phases, each for 4 weeks and one washout period for 2 weeks. Patients were randomly assigned to consume a diet containing soy milk or a diet containing cow’s milk. RESULTS Soy milk consumption resulted in a significant reduction in d-dimer level (percent change: −3.77 vs. 16.13", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/49/1981.PMC3447833.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3249889", "abstract": "Influenza A virus is an enveloped virus with a segmented, single-strand, negative-sense RNA genome. Its virions show spherical or filamentous shapes of about 100 nm in diameter and occasionally irregular morphology, which exemplifies the pleomorphic nature of these virions. Each viral RNA segment forms a ribonucleoprotein complex (RNP), along with an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase complex and multiple copies of nucleoproteins; the RNPs reside in the enveloped virions. Here, we focus on electron microscopic analyses of influenza virions and RNPs. Based on the morphological and structural observations obtained by using electron microscopic techniques, we present a model of the native morphology of the influenza virion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/d9/fmicb-02-00269.PMC3249889.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4274813", "abstract": "Carboxymethyl cellulose acetate butyrate (CMCAB) has gained increasing importance in several fields, particularly in coating technologies and pharmaceutical research. CMCAB is synthesized by esterification of CMC sodium salt with acetic and butyric anhydrides. CMCAB mixed esters are relatively high molecular weight (MW) thermoplastic polymers with high glass transition temperatures (Tg). CMCAB ester is dispersible in water and soluble in a wide range of organic solvents, allowing varied opportunity to the solvent choice. It makes application of coatings more consistent and defect-free. Its ability to slow down the release rate of highly water-soluble compounds and to increase the dissolution of poorly soluble compounds makes CMCAB a unique and potentially valuable tool in pharmaceutical and amorphous solid dispersions (ASD) formulations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8f/4e/PMC4274813.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3100598", "abstract": " Background and Objective. Daily folic acid intake, prior to conception and in early pregnancy, significantly reduces neural tube defects (NTDs). We compared folic acid consumption among Jewish and Bedouin women and the recommendations of family physicians and gynecologists.  Methods. We compared 64 Muslim Bedouin women and 65 Jewish women. We also compared 39 gynecologists and 60 family physicians. Results. Fifty-one Jewish women (78.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a6/9d/PMC3100598.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4263379", "abstract": "Applying professional values is an important issue in nursing practice. It is also crucial to find out nurses’ perspectives toward ethical and professional values in the clinical environment. For this purpose, we aimed to utilize a standard tool to survey perspectives on applying these values in nursing care in hospitals of Isfahan, Iran. This is a descriptive-analytical study in which 150 nurses working in hospitals of Isfahan, Iran in 2010 were recruited by quota convenience sampling, and their perspectives on professional values were assessed. Data were collected by the Nurses Professional Values Scale (NPVS) and analyzed using SPSS Software version 16 applying descriptive and interpretive statistics. In the present study, 84", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d8/e1/jmehm-7-1.PMC4263379.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC483058", "abstract": "Background Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a class of nuclear transcription factors that are activated by fatty acids and their derivatives. One of these, PPARγ, regulates responsiveness to insulin in adipose cells, and PPARγ-activating drugs such as pioglitazone are used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. PPARγ acts in myeloid-lineage cells, including T-cells and macrophages, to suppress their activation and their elaboration of inflammatory molecules. PPARγ activation also suppresses the activated phenotype in microglia, suggesting that PPARγ-activating drugs may be of benefit in chronic neuroinflammatory diseases. Some, but not all, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (indomethacin and ibuprofen in particular) also have activating effects on PPARγ. Discussion and conclusions These observations suggest on the one hand a role for PPARγ-activating drugs in the treatment of chronic neuroinflammatory diseases-as shown for a patient with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis by Pershadsingh et al. in this issue of the Journal of Neuroinflammation-and suggest on the other hand a possible explanation for confusing and contradictory results in trials of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents in Alzheimer's disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/52/PMC483058.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4099346", "abstract": " Purpose. To investigate the clinical features, surgical outcomes, and prognostic factors of combined rhegmatogenous and tractional detachment (combined RD) in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) in recent years. Methods. Medical records of PDR and combined RD treated with vitrectomy from 2008 to 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Results. A total of 57 eyes from 49 patients were included. Nine eyes had received panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) and 7 eyes had intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) within 3 months before RD developed. Thirty-eight eyes (66.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2c/a8/PMC4099346.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4349536", "abstract": "One hundred and twenty stranding events of Stejneger’s beaked whales were reported in Japan between 1999 and 2011. The purpose of this study is to introduce pathological data and to discuss probable causes of death for 44 Stejneger’s beaked whales among them. The significant pathological findings were the pulmonary edema, parasitic granulomatous nephritis, emaciation, amyloidosis, suppurative bronchopneumonia and so on. The probable causes of death were categorized as noninfectious in 43 of the cases, which included drowning, starvation and secondary amyloidosis. One individual was diagnosed with septicemia, which was the only example of an infectious disease. Because we could not always perform advanced analyses, such as microbiology tests, biotoxin examinations or contaminant analyses, the finality of our findings may be impaired. However, the present study has broad implications on the causes of death of Stejneger’s beaked whales of the seas around Japan, which are valuable for the future studies and for the detection of emerging diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/89/bc/jvms-77-045.PMC4349536.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5300823", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the balance and gait functions of children with Down syndrome and typically developing children according to age. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were 16 children with Down syndrome and 20 children with typical development. The one leg standing test, Romberg’s test (open eyes/closed eyes), sharpened Romberg’s (open eyes/closed eyes), functional reaching test and GAITRite were used for this study in order to measure the children’s balance and gait function. [Results] The results of this study showed that static-dynamic balance ability, spatio-temporal gait parameters and quality of life were statistically and significantly different in Down syndrome children compared to typically developing children. [Conclusion] These results suggest that the balance and gait ability of typically developing children improves during growth, whereas those of children with Down syndrome remain low despite independent gait. Therefore, constant therapeutic intervention for balance and gait function is necessary after independent gait development in Down syndrome children.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d1/42/jpts-29-123.PMC5300823.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1705511", "abstract": "An emerging conflict with Trans-Himalayan pastoral communities in Ladakh’s Changthang Plateau threatens the conservation prospects of the kiang (Equus kiang) in India. It is locally believed that Changthang’s rangelands are overstocked with kiang, resulting in forage competition with livestock. Here, we provide a review and preliminary data on the causes of this conflict. Erosion of people’s tolerance of the kiang can be attributed to factors such as the loss of traditional pastures during an Indo-Chinese war fought in 1962, immigration of refugees from Tibet, doubling of the livestock population in about 20 years, and increasing commercialization of cashmere (pashmina) production. The perception of kiang overstocking appears misplaced, because our range-wide density estimate of 0.24 kiang km−2 (± 0.44, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/90/00/PMC1705511.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3446133", "abstract": "Objective Atrial septal defect (ASD) device closure is routinely done under the guide of transesophageal or intracardiac echocardiography which are expensive techniques and not easily affordable in developing countries. Methods Using metallic devices, we attempted 32 ASD device closures under transthoracic echocardiography. Findings Of those, 30 procedures were successful (94 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e8/53/IJPD-21-473.PMC3446133.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2193596", "abstract": "B cells from mice deficient in mismatch repair (MMR) proteins show decreased ability to undergo class switch recombination in vitro and in vivo. The deficit is not accompanied by any reduction in cell viability or alterations in the cell cycle in B cells cultured in vitro. To assess the role of MMR in switching we examined the nucleotide sequences of Sμ-Sγ3 recombination junctions in splenic B cells induced in culture to switch to IgG3. The data demonstrate clear differences in the sequences of switch junctions in wild-type B cells in comparison with Msh2-, Mlh1-, and Pms2-deficient B cells. Sequences of switch junctions from Msh2-deficient cells showed decreased lengths of microhomology between Sμ and Sγ3 relative to junctions from wild-type cells and an increase in insertions, i.e., nucleotides which do not appear to be derived from either the Sμ or Sγ3 parental sequence. By contrast, 23", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0b/49/011877.PMC2193596.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3841274", "abstract": "Objective The surgical approach for recurrent pituitary adenoma after trans-sphenoidal approach (TSA) is challenging. We report the outcomes of the endoscopic TSA for recurrent pituitary adenoma after microscopic TSA. Methods From February 2010 to February 2013, endoscopic TSA was performed for removal of 30 recurrent pituitary adenomas after microscopic TSA. Twenty-seven (90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/da/jkns-54-317.PMC3841274.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4729517", "abstract": "Specialists of developing countries are facing the epidemic growth of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). From 2011 to 2013, I, as a Korean volunteer doctor, had been working in a local primary healthcare center in Bangladesh, assessing rates of NCDs. Proportion of patients with NCDs was increased from 74.96", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/2d/jkms-31-326.PMC4729517.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5292562", "abstract": "The gut microbiota provides essential signals for the development and appropriate function of the immune system. Through this critical contribution to immune fitness, the gut microbiota has a key role in health and disease. Recent advances in the technological applications to study microbial communities and their functions have contributed to a rapid increase in host–microbiota research. Although it still remains difficult to define a so-called ‘normal' or ‘healthy' microbial composition, alterations in the gut microbiota have been shown to influence the susceptibility of the host to different diseases. Current translational research combined with recent technological and computational advances have enabled in-depth study of the link between microbial composition and immune function, addressing the interplay between the gut microbiota and immune responses. As such, beneficial modulation of the gut microbiota is a promising clinical target for many prevalent diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic abnormalities such as obesity, reduced insulin sensitivity and low-grade inflammation, allergy and protective immunity against infections.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/25/c3/cti201691a.PMC5292562.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5070678", "abstract": "Abstract The right to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress (REBSP) is a little-known but potentially valuable right that can contribute to rights-based approaches to addressing multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). We argue that better understanding of the REBSP may help to advance legal and civil society action for health rights. While the REBSP does not provide an individual entitlement to have a new drug developed for MDR-TB, it sets up entitlements to expect a state to establish a legislative and policy framework aimed at developing scientific capacity to address the most important health issues and at disseminating the outcomes of scientific research. By making scientific findings available and accessible, people can be enabled to claim the use of science for social benefits. Inasmuch as the market fails to address neglected diseases such as MDR-TB, the REBSP provides a potential counterbalance to frame a positive obligation on states to both marshal their own resources and to coordinate the actions of multiple other actors towards this goal, including non-state actors. While the latter do not hold the same level of accountability as states, the REBSP can still enable the recognition of obligations at a level of “soft law” responsibilities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2e/d0/hhr-18-025.PMC5070678.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC341458", "abstract": "Background The correlation between regional changes in neuronal activity and changes in hemodynamics is a major issue for noninvasive neuroimaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and near-infrared optical imaging (NIOI). A tight coupling of these changes has been assumed to elucidate brain function from data obtained with those techniques. In the present study, we investigated the relationship between neuronal activity and hemodynamic responses in the occipital cortex of humans during visual stimulation and in the somatosensory cortex of rats during peripheral nerve stimulation. Methods The temporal frequency dependence of macroscopic hemodynamic responses on visual stimuli was investigated in the occipital cortex of humans by simultaneous measurements made using fMRI and NIOI. The stimulus-intensity dependence of both microscopic hemodynamic changes and changes in neuronal activity in response to peripheral nerve stimulation was investigated in animal models by analyzing membrane potential (fluorescence), hemodynamic parameters (visible spectra and laser-Doppler flowmetry), and vessel diameter (image analyzer). Results Above a certain level of stimulus-intensity, increases in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) were accompanied by a decrease in regional cerebral blood volume (rCBV), i.e., dissociation of rCBF and rCBV responses occurred in both the human and animal experiments. Furthermore, the animal experiments revealed that the distribution of increased rCBF and O2 spread well beyond the area of neuronal activation, and that the increases showed saturation in the activated area. Conclusions These results suggest that above a certain level of neuronal activity, a regulatory mechanism between regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and rCBV acts to prevent excess O2 inflow into the focally activated area.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e2/88/PMC341458.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4292228", "abstract": "The present article presents a comprehensive evaluation of the potential use of an Electrical Low Pressure Impactor (ELPI) in the ferroalloy industry with respect to indoor air quality and fugitive emission control. The ELPI was used to assess particulate emission properties, particularly of the fine particles (Dp ≤ 1 μm), which in turn may enable more satisfactory risk assessments for the indoor working conditions in the ferroalloy industry. An ELPI has been applied to characterize the fume in two different ferroalloy plants, one producing silicomanganese (SiMn) alloys and one producing ferrosilicon (FeSi) alloys. The impactor classifies the particles according to their aerodynamic diameter and gives real-time particle size distributions (PSD). The PSD based on both number and mass concentrations are shown and compared. Collected particles have also been analyzed by transmission and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy. From the ELPI classification, particle size distributions in the range 7 nm – 10 μm have been established for industrial SiMn and FeSi fumes. Due to the extremely low masses of the ultrafine particles, the number and mass concentration PSD are significantly different. The average aerodynamic diameters for the FeSi and the SiMn fume particles were 0.17 and 0.10 μm, respectively. Based on this work, the ELPI is identified as a valuable tool for the evaluation of airborne particulate matter in the indoor air of metallurgical production sites. The method is well suited for real-time assessment of morphology (particle shape), particle size, and particle size distribution of aerosols.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1e/05/PMC4292228.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3335553", "abstract": "Proteinases secreted by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary, Rhizoctonia solani, and Fusarium culmorum belonging to different families of fungi have been studied to determine if the exoenzyme secretion depends on the environmental conditions and the phylogenetic position of the pathogen. The substrate specificity of the extracellular proteinases of F. culmorum, R. solani, and P. infestans and their sensitivity to the action of synthetic and protein inhibitors suggest that they contain trypsin-like and subtilisin-like enzymes regardless of culture medium composition. The relation of trypsin-like and subtilisin-like enzymes is dependent on the culture medium composition, especially on the form of nitrogen nutrition, particularly in the case of the exoenzymes secreted by R. solani. Phylogenetic analyses have shown that the exoproteinase set of ascomycetes and oomycetes has more similarities than basidiomycetes although they are more distant relatives. Our data suggests that the multiple proteinases secreted by pathogenic fungi could play different roles in pathogenesis, increasing the adaptability and host range, or could have different functions in survival in various ecological habitats outside the host.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6e/6d/PMC3335553.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3375793", "abstract": "We report 3 cases of spotted fever group rickettsial infection (presumed Queensland tick typhus) in residents of northern Queensland, Australia, who had unusually severe clinical manifestations. Complications included renal failure, purpura fulminans, and severe pneumonia. Clinical illness caused by Rickettsia australis may not be as benign as previously described.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/9a/PMC3375793.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4297172", "abstract": "Background: Participation in football can put both male and female players at an increased risk for knee osteoarthritis. There is a higher prevalence of focal chondral defects in the knee of athletes compared to nonathletes. The management of chondral defects in the football player is complex and multifactorial. Objective: The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the current strategies for rehabilitation after articular cartilage repair of the knee in the football player. Design: A review of current literature and the scientific evidence for rehabilitation after articular cartilage repair of the knee. Conclusions: Articular cartilage repair has been shown to allow return to sport but rehabilitation timescales are lengthy. Successful rehabilitation for a return to football after articular cartilage repair of the knee requires the player to be able to accept the load of the sport. This necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation, especially in the transition from therapy to performance care. It should be recognized that not all players will return to football after articular cartilage repair. The evidence base for rehabilitative practice after articular cartilage repair is increasing but remains sparse in areas.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/2f/PMC4297172.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3652190", "abstract": "The intention is to summarize the body of evidence speaking to the psychological challenges faced by visually impaired older adults, as well as their coping efforts. This evidence is substantiated by a rich set of concepts, theories, and empirical findings that have accumulated under the umbrella of age-related psychoophthalmology (APO). I introduce the field of APO and continue with a discussion of important concepts and theories for a better understanding of adaptational processes in visually impaired older adults. I then summarize the most relevant and most recent data from four areas: (1) everyday competence, (2) cognitive functioning, (3) social functioning, and (4) subjective well-being-related outcomes, depression, and adaptational processes. Thereafter, major insights related to the current state-of-the art psychosocial interventions with visuallyimpaired older adults are reviewed. I close with the need that the public health community should become more aware of and address the psychosocial needs of visually impaired older adults.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/c7/PMC3652190.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3928818", "abstract": " Background. Ixora coccinea L. (Rubiaceae) has been documented for traditional use in hypertension, menstrual irregularities, sprain, chronic ulcer, and skin diseases. In the present study, I. coccinea was subjected to in vitro and in vivo wound healing investigation. Methods. Petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, and water sequential I. coccinea leaves extracts were evaluated for in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial, and fibroblast proliferation activities. The promising I. coccinea methanol extract (IxME) was screened for in vivo wound healing activity in Wistar rat using circular excision model. Wound contraction measurement, hydroxyproline quantification, and western blot for collagen type III (COL3A1), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and Smad-2, -3, -4, and -7 was performed with 7-day postoperative wound granulation tissue. Gentamicin sulfate (0.01", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/43/f1/PMC3928818.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4779350", "abstract": "Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate biochemical parameters in serum of women with preeclampsia and IUGR. Material and methods: A clinical prospective study was conducted and included 120 pregnant women divided in two groups: non IUGR group included healthy pregnant women (n=60) and IUGR group included pregnant women with preeclampsia and IUGR (n=60). Outcome measures were following values of biochemical parameters in serum of mother and fetuses: aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), bilirubin (indirect and direct) and cholesterol. A blood for analysis was drawn from the cubital vein of mothers and the umbilical vein of the fetuses during delivery period. Results: The mean of maternal age was 30.0±6.1 years in women with preeclampsia and IUGR and 28.1±5.1 years in healthy pregnant women, p > 0.05. The most of women with preeclampsia and IUGR had grade III of placental maturation (48.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/62/MA-70-44.PMC4779350.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4622492", "abstract": "Background People with COPD suffering from coronary artery disease are frequently treated with revascularization procedures. We aim to compare trends in the use and outcomes of these procedures in COPD and non-COPD patients in Spain between 2001 and 2011. Methods We identified all patients who had undergone percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgeries, using national hospital discharge data. Discharges were grouped into: COPD and no COPD. Results From 2001 to 2011, 428,516 PCIs and 79,619 CABGs were performed. The sex and age-adjusted use of PCI increased by 21.27", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/ec/copd-10-2285.PMC4622492.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3444860", "abstract": "Reduced sulfur compounds are considered to be important odorants from pig production due to their low odor threshold values and low solubility in slurry. The objective of the present study was to investigate the use of a portable method with a single silica gel column for trapping/separation coupled with chemiluminescence detection (SCTS-CL) for measurement of methanethiol and dimethyl sulfide in sample air from pig production. Proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) was used to evaluate the trapping/separation. The silica gel column used for the SCTS-CL efficiently collected hydrogen sulfide, methanethiol and dimethyl sulfide. The measurement of methanethiol by SCTS-CL was clearly interfered by the high concentration of hydrogen sulfide found in pig production, and a removal of hydrogen sulfide was necessary to obtain reliable results. Air samples taken from a facility with growing-finishing pigs were analyzed by SCTS-CL, PTR-MS, and a gas chromatograph with sulfur chemiluminescence detection (GC-SCD) to evaluate the SCTS-CL. The difference between the concentrations of methanethiol and dimethyl sulfide measured with SCTS-CL, PTR-MS, and GC-SCD was below 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6a/e4/PMC3444860.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5245953", "abstract": "Introduction: Uni-compartmental knee arthritis may be treated with several surgical options including uni-compartmental knee arthroplasty, total knee arthroplasty and high tibial osteotomy. Non-union is a well-established and common complication that may arise from the latter option and few reports have shown successful treatment of persistent non-union of high tibial osteotomy. Case Presentation: We present a case of persistent non-union after high tibial osteotomy treated with autologous iliac crest bone grafting and revision plating. At 1 year post-operative interval, successful union was achieved after revision internal fixation. In addition, a good functional outcome was achieved. Conclusion: In this patient with persistent non-union following high tibial osteotomy, the aim of revision was to restore alignment and effect bone healing while preserving adequate tibial bone stock. Revision plating with autologous bone grafting is a good surgical strategy in the treatment ofpersistent non-union with hardware failure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/fa/JOCR-6-91.PMC5245953.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3974567", "abstract": "Gene dosage effects have emerged as playing a central role in the pathogenesis of polycystic kidney disease. Yet, how gene dosage can ultimately have an impact on the formation of kidney cysts remains unknown. In this commentary we review the evidence for the role of gene dosage effects versus the “2-hit” mutation model in polycystic kidney disease (PKD), and also discuss how gene networks may potentially make intertwined contributions to PKD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6f/1c/medrep-06-24.PMC3974567.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2627246", "abstract": "Percutaneous sacroplasty is a safe and effective procedure for sacral insufficient fractures under CT or fluoroscopic guidance; although, few reports exist about sacral metastatic tumors. We designed a pilot study to treat intractable pain caused by a sacral metastatic tumor with sacroplasty. A 62-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman with medically intractable pain due to metastatic tumors of S1 from lymphoma and lung cancer, respectively, underwent percutaneous sacroplasty. Over the course of the follow-up period, the two patients experienced substantial and immediate pain relief that persisted over a 3-month and beyond. The woman had deposition of PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) in the needle track, but did not experience significant symptoms. No other peri-procedural complications were observed for either patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/04/kjr-9-572.PMC2627246.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4342178", "abstract": " Purpose. To investigate the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and choroid in patients who have migraines in comparison to healthy controls. Methods. This study included 76 eyes and patients in the migraine group, 36 with aura (MWA group) and 40 without (MWoA group), and 38 eyes as control subjects. The RNFL and macular thicknesses were analysed with standard OCT protocol while choroidal thickness was analysed with EDI protocol in all subjects. Choroidal thickness was measured at the fovea, 1500 µm nasal and 1500 µm temporal to the fovea in a horizontal section. Results. The mean RNFL thickness for nasal and nasal inferior sectors was significantly thinner (P ≤ 0.018) in the migraineurs' eyes than in those of the controls, as was the mean choroid thickness at the fovea and measured points (P < 0.0001). However, the mean macular thickness was not significantly different between the groups. Conclusions. This study suggests that migraine leads to a reduction in the peripapillary RNFL thickness and to thinning in choroidal structures. These findings can be explained by a chronic ischemic insult related to migraine pathogenic mechanisms and these findings are considered supportive of the relationship between glaucoma and migraine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/de/89/PMC4342178.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3317218", "abstract": " Introduction. The aim of this paper was to evaluate cephalometrically the nasopharyngeal development of patients with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate. Influencing factors were evaluated and cleft to noncleft subjects were compared to each other. Material and Methods. The lateral cephalograms of 66 patients with complete cleft lip and palate were measured and compared retrospectively to the cephalograms of 123 healthy probands. Measurements were derived from a standardized analysis of 56 landmarks. Results. We observed significant differences between cleft and control group: the cleft patients showed amaxillary retroposition and a reduced maxillary length; the inclination of the maxilla was significantly more posterior and cranial; the anterior nasopharyngeal height was reduced; the nasopharyngeal growth followed a vertical tendency with reduced sagittal dimensions concerning hard and soft tissue. The velum length was reduced. In the cleft group, an accumulation of mandibular retrognathia and an anterior position of the hyoid were observed. Skeletal configuration and type of growth were predominantly vertical. Conclusions. Our data provides a fundamental radiological analysis of the nasopharyngeal development in cleft patients. It confirms the lateral cephalogram as a basic diagnostic device in the analysis of nasopharyngeal and skeletal growth in cleft patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/79/e8/PMC3317218.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4713824", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of a self-assessment device for pelvic position in a computer user with back pain. [Subjects] A 37-year-old man who complained of low back pain at L3–5 levels was the participant. [Methods] In this study, a self-assessment device for the pelvic position was developed. The patient was instructed in self-assessment of the pelvic position and an exercise program for two months. Prior to this instruction, the visual analog scale score and range of motion of the trunk were assessed. [Results] After the instruction in self-assessment of the pelvic position and exercise program, the visual analog scale score decreased from 7 to 3, and trunk flexion, extension, and bilateral lateral flexion range of motion were increased compared to the initial assessment. [Conclusion] Therefore, use of self-anthropometers and measuring methods in patients with chronic back pain is considered an important area of study.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f8/73/jpts-27-3939.PMC4713824.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2864444", "abstract": "In Japan, there is as yet no report on growth retardation in children with IBD. We therefore investigated the cause of growth retardation in Japanese children with IBD. We investigated the height, body weight, serum levels of albumin, IGF-I, CRP, and cytokines, and the amount of corticosteroid administered in children with Crohn's disease (CD, n = 15) and ulcerative colitis (UC, n = 18). Our results suggest that growth retardation is already present before the initial visit in children with CD, and chronic inflammation may be responsible this growth disturbance. Moreover, the amount of PSL used may contribute to growth retardation by decreasing the serum levels of IGF-I in children with IBD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/f3/PMC2864444.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4897433", "abstract": "The primary ingredient of the Anthropogenic Global Warming hypothesis, namely, the assumption that additional atmospheric carbon dioxide substantially raises the global temperature, is studied. This is done by looking at the data of temperature and CO2, both in the time domain and in the phase domain of periodic data. Bicentenary measurements are analyzed and a relaxation model is introduced in the form of an electronic equivalent circuit. The effects of this relaxation manifest themselves in delays in the time domain and correlated phase shifts in the phase domain. For extremely long relaxation time constants, the delay is maximally one-quarter period, which for the yearly-periodic signal means 3 months. This is not in line with the analyzed data, the latter showing delays of 9 (−3) months. These results indicate a reverse function of cause and effect, with temperature being the cause for atmospheric CO2 changes, rather than their effect. These two hypotheses are discussed on basis of literature, where it was also reported that CO2 variations are lagging behind temperature variations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3b/7c/PMC4897433.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5391161", "abstract": "Hashimoto encephalopathy (HE) is believed to be an immune-mediated disorder associated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. It was suggested that neuropsychiatric symptoms, the presence of antithyroid antibody, and good response to steroids were important for the diagnosis of HE. It has been reported that homovanillic acid (HVA) and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG), which are monoamine metabolites of dopamine and noradrenaline, respectively, are the possible biomarkers of neuropsychiatric diseases. We report a case of Hashimoto encephalopathy, in which we longitudinally measured the plasma levels of monoamine metabolites. A 52-year-old woman developed acute psychosis, and was admitted to the psychiatric ward of our hospital due to psychotic state, 6 days after a traffic accident. An extensive evaluation showed no remarkable findings, except an increase in antithyroglobulin antibodies. Plasma levels of HVA and MHPG were extremely high at 66.5 and 41.8 ng/mL, respectively. On day 16, 50 mg/day oral prednisolone was administered, which improved her psychotic symptoms. Plasma levels of HVA and MHPG decreased to 7.2 and 9.9 ng/mL, respectively, on day 19. After the temporary worsening of psychosis and increase in plasma levels of HVA and MHPG, the dosage of prednisolone was tapered and low-dose risperidone was started. Her psychiatric symptoms gradually improved and plasma monoamine metabolite levels decreased again (HVA: 17.9 ng/mL; MHPG: 7.7 ng/mL). Although autoimmune mechanism has been suggested to be involved in HE, neural mechanism and pathogenesis of HE remain unknown. Our findings suggest that monoaminergic neural activity might be associated with psychotic symptoms in patients with HE and plasma levels of monoamine metabolites might be useful as state markers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/21/ndt-13-1043.PMC5391161.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5072567", "abstract": "Background Peters’ anomaly (PA) is a rare form of anterior segment dysgenesis characterized by corneal opacity with varied degree of anterior chamber affection with associated defects in the posterior layers of the cornea. Case presentation We report the case of a 3-month-old male infant with bilateral corneal opacity since birth who was transferred from the pediatric unit for further ophthalmic care. He was diagnosed with PA with subsequent systemic-associated malformations including craniofacial defects and skeletal defects. He was managed minimally with topical mydriatics and antiglaucomatous drugs. Conclusion PA is an inevitable cause of blindness in developing countries due to poor infrastructure and limited resources.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4b/6f/imcrj-9-317.PMC5072567.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4943237", "abstract": "Background In heart failure (HF), weight loss (WL) has been associated with an adverse prognosis whereas obesity has been linked to lower mortality (the obesity paradox). The impact of WL in obese patients with HF is incompletely understood. Our objective was to explore the prevalence of WL and its impact on long‐term mortality, with an emphasis on obese patients, in a cohort of patients with chronic HF. Methods and Results Weight at first visit and the 1‐year follow‐up and vital status after 3 years were assessed in 1000 consecutive ambulatory, chronic HF patients (72.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/e3/JAH3-5-e002468.PMC4943237.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3185288", "abstract": "Research efforts were focused on genetic alterations in epithelial cancer cells. Epithelial-stromal interactions play a crucial role in cancer initiation, progression, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis; however, the active role of stroma in human breast tumorigenesis in relation to estrogen receptor (ER) status of epithelial cells has not been explored.  Using proteomics and biochemical approaches, we identified two stromal proteins in ER-positive and ER-negative human breast cancer tissues that may affect malignant transformation in breast cancer. Two putative biomarkers, T-cell receptor alpha (TCR-α) and zinc finger and BRCA1-interacting protein with a KRAB domain (ZBRK1), were detected in leukocytes of ER-positive and endothelial cells of ER-negative tissues, respectively. Our data suggest an immunosuppressive role of leukocytes in invasive breast tumors, propose a multifunctional nature of ZBRK1 in estrogen receptor regulation and angiogenesis, and demonstrate the aggressiveness of ER-negative human breast carcinomas. This research project may identify new stromal drug targets for the treatment of breast cancer patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/eb/PMC3185288.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3941766", "abstract": "Objective This is a retrospective review of 13 unstable Hangman's fractures who underwent posterior C2-3 fixation to describe clinical outcomes with a literature review. Methods Thirteen patients for unstable Hangman's fracture were enrolled between July 2007 and June 2010 were included in this study. The medical records of all patients were reviewed. Concurrently, clinical outcomes were evaluated using Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores during preoperative and postoperative follow up period. Plain radiographs were obtained on postoperative 1day, 1week, and then at 1, 2, 6, and 12 months. CT was done at postoperative 12 months in all patients for evaluation of bone fusion. The mean period of clinical follow-up was 17 months. Results Mean age were 43 years old. Bone fusion was recognized in all cases at the final follow-up. The average preoperative VAS score for neck pain was 8.3±1.1, while the final follow-up VAS score was 2.07±0.8 (p<0.001). The average immediate postoperative NDI was 84", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/97/c4/kjs-10-165.PMC3941766.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4300369", "abstract": "Loperamide is a peripheral opiate agonist that can cause apoptosis and G2/M arrest in human cancer cell lines and may sensitize cells to chemotherapy. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of loperamide on viability, apoptosis and cell cycle kinetics in canine cancer cells and to establish whether the drug sensitizes cells to doxorubicin. Cell viability was assessed using Alamar Blue. Cell death and cell cycle were studied using flow cytometry with 7-Aminoactinomycin-D (7-AAD) and propidium iodide (PI), respectively. Loperamide decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent fashion and was most effective against canine osteosarcoma cells. In all cell lines, it induced a dose and time dependent apoptosis and resulted in accumulation in G0/G1. When co-incubated with doxorubicin, loperamide induced a synergistic cell kill in canine carcinoma cells. Investigation is warranted into the role of loperamide in the treatment of canine cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/78/jvms-76-1563.PMC4300369.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3574770", "abstract": "Editor’s note: In 2008, Henry T. Greely, a professor at Stanford Law School, co-authored a commentary in Nature; it concluded that “safe and effective cognitive enhancers will benefit both the individual and society.” The article inspired an impressive number of responses from readers, and the debate has continued in scholarly journals and the mainstream media in the years following publication. Here Professor Greely builds on that momentum, arguing that only some concerns about cognitive enhancements are justified and proper attention is needed to address such issues. He contends that rather than banning cognitive enhancements, as some have suggested, we should determine rules for their use.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a1/de/PMC3574770.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5015607", "abstract": "Objective: To report a flash photography-induced maculopathy. Methods: A professional photographer blinded himself accidentally and he consulted 3 days after the event with a scotoma in his dominant left eye. A unilateral acute light-induced maculopathy with hemorrhage was observed. The lesion was studied with colour photography, fluorescein and indocyanin angiography, autofluorescence imaging and repeated optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging.  Results: At age 43, this professional photographer was blinded by the flash light of his camera and subsequently realized he had a scotoma in his dominant eye. Three days after the event visual acuity (VA) was 20/70 and an acute light-induced maculopathy was noted. Another three days later, VA was 20/50 and the lesions were less prominent. After one month, the photographer still had problems making sharp pictures, VA was 20/25 and a macular scar was observed. During further follow-up, he regained full vision and experienced no professional problems.  Conclusions: This case illustrates that the light of flash photography can accidentally hit an eye and induce a light-induced maculopathy. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/00/OC-01-04.PMC5015607.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4302500", "abstract": "Background: Galectin-3 is a soluble ß-galactoside–binding lectin released by activated cardiac macrophages. Galectin-3 has been proposed for diagnosis and prognosis of HF patients. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between galectin-3 as a biomarker and ejection fraction and functional capacity in the patients with compensated systolic heart failure. Patients and Methods: In this study, serum levels of Galectin-3 were measured in 76 patients with compensated heart failure with New York Heart Association class I–IV and left ventricular ejection fraction < 45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/41/38/icrj-08-143.PMC4302500.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4293046", "abstract": "The presence of functional opioid receptors on epidermal keratinocytes, with attendant regulation of keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation, indicate their novel role in maintaining epidermal homeostasis. Expression of proenkephalin precursors and neuropeptide products in the same compartment opens an opportunity to study the role of this endogenous opioid circuitry, with its regulators, in modulating epidermal barrier function.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/92/d0/PMC4293046.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4224001", "abstract": "Saree is a common, traditional garment of Indian women, wrapped around the waist is tightened by a thick cord and with one end draped over the shoulder. Tight knot in the same place, sweat, soiling and continuous use can cause pigmentation, scaling of the waist and even transform to malignancy. We present here a case of saree cancer successfully managed with multimodality therapy. A 50-year-old woman was referred to our hospital (India) for itching and non-healing ulcerative lesion on waistline. She was wearing saree continuously for 34 years with knot at the same place. Magnetic resonance images suggested ulcerative growth with lymph node metastasis. She then underwent wide local excision; histopathological examination confirmed it was a squamous cell carcinoma. She therefore received concomitant chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She is now (2 years after the completion of treatment) in remission state. Awareness of saree cancer among Indian is important to avoid malignant lesions at waistline. Multimodality management with surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy is ideal mean for good outcome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f3/87/dr-2014-1-5128.PMC4224001.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4049885", "abstract": "A 62-year-old female presented to our institution with dimness of vision in her right eye. On examination, her best corrected visual acuity was 20/100 in the right eye. The intraocular pressures were 14 mmHg in both eyes. Slit-lamp examination revealed nuclear sclerotic cataracts bilaterally and iridodialysis in her right eye. Seven days after the first visit, cataract surgery was performed without any complications. One year later, she presented to our institution with acute visual loss and ocular pain in the right eye. Best corrected visual acuity of the right eye was light perception and the intraocular pressure was 44 mmHg. Slit-lamp examination revealed a ciliary body mass with widespread pigment dispersion in the anterior segment. Due to no useful vision and uncontrolled pain, enucleation of the right eye was performed. Histopathologic examination revealed a melanocytoma of the ciliary body.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/20/opth-8-1051.PMC4049885.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3312213", "abstract": "Chewing gum increases salivary flow rate (SFR) and pH, but differences in preferences of gum flavor may influence SFR and pH. The aim of this paper was to assess the effect of five different flavors of sucrose-free chewing gum on the salivary flow rate and pH in healthy dental students in Isfahan, Iran. Fifteen (7 men and 8 women) healthy dental student volunteers collected unstimulated saliva and then chewed one of five flavored gums for 6 min. The whole saliva was collected and assessed for 6 consecutive days. After unstimulated saliva was collected, stimulated saliva was collected at interval of 0-1, 1–3, and 3–6 minutes after the start of different flavored chewing gums. The SFR and salivary pH were measured. The SFR increased in all five flavored gums at 1, 3, and 6 minutes after start of chewing gums (P < 0.001). The flow rate of all products reached peak in the 1st minute of stimulation, except spearmint-flavored gums which reached peak in the 6th minute. In the 1st minute, the strawberry-flavored gums showed the highest SFR. During 1–3 minutes, strawberry- and apple-flavored gums showed higher SFR, respectively. Only the spearmint- and cinnamon-flavored gum significantly increased salivary pH. Gum flavored can affect the SFR and pH and special flavors can be advised for different individuals according to their oral conditions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fa/2d/PMC3312213.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2702734", "abstract": "Osteoradionecrosis of the temporal bone is a very rare but potentially lethal complication of radiotherapy for head and neck or skull base tumors. Only two cases of osteoradionecrosis of the temporal bone complicating cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) otorrhea have been reported in the literature. This report describes a case of CSF otorrhea and osteoradionecrosis of the temporal bone in a patient with meningioma who was treated with tympanomastoid surgery and autologous fat obliteration in the mastoid.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/3b/ceo-2-97.PMC2702734.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5346915", "abstract": "We present the unusual case of a patient with an aquaporin 4 antibody-seropositive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder who presented with autonomic dysregulation, cognitive impairment, and symptoms of psychosis. Only a few previous cases have been described with similar psychiatric symptoms. Brain MRI showed an abnormal hyperintense T2 signal of the hypothalamus and, to a lesser extent, a minor hyperintense signal of the right optic nerve. Her symptoms and MR abnormalities improved after high-dose methylprednisolone.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/63/c3/crn-0009-0012.PMC5346915.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3341432", "abstract": "Infective endocarditis (IE) is an infection of the endothelial surface of the heart and heart valves with serious, even fatal, complications and that often requires long-term and expensive treatment. Dental procedures may lead to IE in high-risk patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the knowledge of general dentists and dental students concerning the prevention of IE in Hamadan, Iran. In this cross-sectional study, the awareness of general dentists and dentistry students concerning the prevention of IE was evaluated during 2010. A questionnaire was prepared and administered to 58 final-year dental students and 96 general dental practitioners in Hamadan. A total of 154 persons completed the questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of some demographic questions and questions about awareness of IE in three sections. The gathered data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, Pearson's chi-square test, Mann-Whitney test, and independent t-tests. The gathered data showed that dentistry students answered the questions about awareness of the prevention of IE more correctly than did general dentists. The overall knowledge of endocarditis prophylaxis among students and dentists was about 65", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/4f/cmj-48-15.PMC3341432.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3816882", "abstract": "The cost of diabetes, driven primarily by the cost of preventable diabetes complications, will continue to increase with the epidemic rise in its prevalence in the U.S. The Diabetes Working Group (DWG), a consortium of professional organizations and individuals, was created to examine the barriers to better diabetes care and to recommend mitigating solutions. We consolidated three sets of guidelines promulgated by national professional organizations into 29 standards of optimal care and empanelled independent groups of diabetes care professionals to estimate the minimum and maximum time needed to achieve those standards of care for each of six clinical vignettes representing typical patients seen by diabetes care providers. We used a standards-of-care economic model to compare provider costs with reimbursement and calculated “reimbursement gaps.” The reimbursement gap was calculated using the maximum and minimum provider cost estimate (reflecting the baseline- and best-case provider time estimates from the panels). The cost of guideline-driven care greatly exceeded reimbursement in almost all vignettes, resulting in estimated provider “losses” of 470,000–750,000 USD/year depending on the case mix. Such “losses” dissuade providers of diabetes care from using best practices as recommended by national diabetes organizations. The DWG recommendations include enhancements in care management, workforce supply, and payment reform.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c5/0d/3843.PMC3816882.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4710085", "abstract": "Current treatment of T cell mediated autoimmune diseases relies mostly on strategies of global immunosuppression, which, in the long term, is accompanied by adverse side effects such as a reduced ability to control infections or malignancies. Therefore, new approaches need to be developed that target only the disease mediating cells and leave the remaining immune system intact. Over the past decade a variety of cell based immunotherapy strategies to modulate T cell mediated immune responses have been developed. Most of these approaches rely on tolerance-inducing antigen presenting cells (APC). However, in addition to being technically difficult and cumbersome, such cell-based approaches are highly sensitive to cytotoxic T cell responses, which limits their therapeutic capacity. Here we present a protocol for the generation of non-cellular killer artificial antigen presenting cells (KaAPC), which allows for the depletion of pathologic T cells while leaving the remaining immune system untouched and functional. KaAPC is an alternative solution to cellular immunotherapy which has potential for treating autoimmune diseases and allograft rejections by regulating undesirable T cell responses in an antigen specific fashion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/71/jove-90-51859.PMC4710085.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5278652", "abstract": "A total of eight Ensifer sp. strains were isolated from two pristine cave environments. One strain was isolated from a cave water pool located in the Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota, USA and the remaining seven strains were isolated from Lechuguilla Cave of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico, USA. Whole genome sequencing and comparative genomic analyses of the eight isolates compared to various type strains from the genera Ensifer and Sinorhizobium demonstrates that although members in these genera can be phylogenetically separated into two distinct clades, the percentage of conserved proteins (POCP) between various type strains from Ensifer and Sinorhizobium are consistently higher than 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ed/f7/jgenv05p0012.PMC5278652.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3004497", "abstract": "Although sodium nitroprusside (SNP) is often used in pediatric intensive care units, cyanide toxicity can occur after SNP treatment. To treat SNP-induced cyanide poisoning, antidotes such as amyl nitrite, sodium nitrite, sodium thiosulfate, and hydroxycobalamin should be administered immediately after diagnosis. Here, we report the first case of a very young infant whose SNP-induced cyanide poisoning was successfully treated by exchange transfusion. The success of this alternative method may be related to the fact that exchange transfusion not only removes the cyanide from the blood but also activates detoxification systems by supplying sulfur-rich plasma. Moreover, exchange transfusion replaces cyanide-contaminated erythrocytes with fresh erythrocytes, thereby improving the blood's oxygen carrying capacity more rapidly than antidote therapy. Therefore, we believe that exchange transfusion might be an effective therapeutic modality for critical cases of cyanide poisoning.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/f1/kjped-53-805.PMC3004497.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3697305", "abstract": "The world has experienced an increased incidence and transboundary spread of emerging infectious diseases over the last four decades. We divided emerging infectious diseases into four categories, with subcategories in categories 1 and 4. The categorization was based on the nature and characteristics of pathogens or infectious agents causing the emerging infections, which are directly related to the mechanisms and patterns of infectious disease emergence. The factors or combinations of factors contributing to the emergence of these pathogens vary within each category. We also classified public health laboratories into three types based on function, namely, research, reference and analytical diagnostic laboratories, with the last category being subclassified into primary (community-based) public health and clinical (medical) analytical diagnostic laboratories. The frontline/leading and/or supportive roles to be adopted by each type of public health laboratory for optimal performance to establish the correct etiological agents causing the diseases or outbreaks vary with respect to each category of emerging infectious diseases. We emphasize the need, especially for an outbreak investigation, to establish a harmonized and coordinated national public health laboratory system that integrates different categories of public health laboratories within a country and that is closely linked to the national public health delivery system and regional and international high-end laboratories.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/f1/emi201334a.PMC3697305.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4199889", "abstract": "The peritoneum is the most frequent site of recurrence for gastric cancer after gastrectomy, followed by the liver and lymph nodes. In contrast, metastasis to the thymus is rare. Annual surveillance with computed tomography was performed on a 67-year-old man who previously underwent a distal gastrectomy and D2 lymph node dissection for gastric cancer at Tottori University. Five years after the initial operation, an anterior mediastinal tumor was detected by computed tomography. The patient underwent video-assisted thoracic surgery to remove the tumor. Histopathology revealed adenocarcinoma cells similar to those of the gastric cancer resected 5 years previously. Thymic metastasis was considered likely based on the location of the tumor. The recognition that gastric cancer can metastasize to unusual anatomic locations, such as the thymus, can facilitate an accurate, prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/2b/jgc-14-207.PMC4199889.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2654020", "abstract": "We used in vivo voltage-sensitive dye optical imaging to examine the cortical representation of interaural time difference (ITD), which is believed to be involved in sound source localization. We found that acoustic stimuli with dissimilar ITD activate various localized domains in the auditory cortex. The main loci of the activation pattern shift up to 1 mm during the first 40 ms of the response period. We suppose that some of the neurons in each pool are sensitive to the definite ITD and involved in the transduction of information about sound source localization, based on the ITD. This assumption gives a reasonable fit to the Jeffress model in which the neural network calculates the ITD to define the direction of the sound source. Such calculation forms the basis for the cortex's ability to detect the azimuth of the sound source.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e5/b6/PMC2654020.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3936143", "abstract": "Ductal adenocarcinoma of the prostate was initially described in 1967 by Melicow and Patcher. It was given the erroneous name endometrioid carcinoma, however, further studies confirmed the prostatic origin of this tumor. Currently DAP is classified as a histological variant of prostatic carcinoma. Compared with “classic” acinar carcinoma of the prostate, DAP is a rare histological finding. It's prevalence in prostatectomy and biopsy specimens varies from less than 1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/21/58/CEJU-66-00231.PMC3936143.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3348634", "abstract": " Background. Application of hemostatic fleece (TachoSil) directly onto the bleeding surfaces of the lower uterine segment has been used to obtain hemostasis during cesarean section caused by placenta previa. Methods. Eleven of 15 patients treated with TachoSil for excessive postpartum haemorrhage due to placenta previa were enrolled. An evaluation of the cesarean section scar by transvaginal ultrasound, the uterine cavity and endometrium by hysteroscopy, and the endometrium by biopsy were made. The main outcome measures were intrauterine adhesions, recovery of endometrium at the site of TachoSil application, visible remnants of TachoSil, and scar healing. Results. Eight patients had small remnants of TachoSil in the uterine cavity together with signs of resorption. All had a normal endometrial mucosa, and none had adhesions in the uterine cavity. All cesarean section scars were healed without defects. Conclusion. TachoSil did not seem to impair healing of the endometrium or scar formation in the uterus after intrauterine application. Resorption of TachoSil seems to progress individually. Intrauterine treatment with TachoSil is a valuable supplement to the traditional treatment of post partum haemorrhage and may help retain reproductive capability. This is a small study, and it will require more studies to confirm the reproducibility.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/68/fc/PMC3348634.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4706849", "abstract": "Context: Maxillary sinusitis is an important issue in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. This study aims to present a systematic review of etiologies and treatments of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis. Evidence Acquisition: An electronic database search was performed based on related MeSH keywords. Articles published between January 2001 and December 2014 was selected according to the inclusion criteria. The information extracted from various studies was categorized in various tables. Results: The study selected 19 studies. In most studies, oroantral fistula (OAF) was the most common etiology of odontogenic sinusitis. Alpha-hemolytic streptococcus was the most common flora in sinusitis with dental origin. The literature shows that the Caldwell-Luc approach may be the best method for treating sinusitis in cases of displaced teeth. Conclusions: OAF is a common cause of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis and may easily be treated by endoscopy and fistula closure. Maxillofacial surgeons and dentists should consider this problem to avoid misdiagnosis and prevent complications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/77/76/ircmj-17-12-25536.PMC4706849.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2896856", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of different diagnostic methods in detection of residual dentinal caries in excavated cavities. Fifty extracted molar with deep dentinal carious lesions were excavated using a slow-speed handpiece. All cavities were assessed by laser fluorescence(LF) device, electronic caries monitor(ECM), and caries detector dye(CDD) by three independent observers blindly. The measurements were repeated after two weeks. Specimens containing dentin slices 150 μm in thickness were prepared for histological analyses. The existence and absence of carious dentin was determined using a lightmicroscope. The average intraobserver accuracy was 1.00 (perfect agreement) for CDD, 0.86 (excellent agreement) for ECM, and 0.50 (good agreement) for LF. The average interobserver accuracy values were 0.92 (excellent agreement), (0.36 marginal agreement) and 0.48 (good agreement), for CDD, ECM, and LF, respectively. The average specificity was 0.60 for CDD, 73", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a6/2e/PMC2896856.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2896835", "abstract": "Little is known about the long-term health-related quality of life (HRQL) and mental health outcomes for women diagnosed with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a disorder of sex development. Though recommendations for therapists exist, no research has empirically investigated women's experiences in therapy or their recommendations for therapy. Thus the purpose of the study was to investigate HRQL, mental health concerns of women with CAH, and patients' recommendations for therapists. A qualitative methodology, consensual qualitative research, was used to answer these questions. Eight women with CAH participated in the study. Results from their interviews revealed six domains: physical functioning, psychological functioning, interpersonal processes and relationships, healthcare experiences of women with CAH, recommendations for health care professionals, and systemic considerations. Domains were further broken down into categories with results yielding implications for both medical and mental health professionals and shedding light on issues related to normalcy, concerns both related and unrelated to CAH, sex, and gender, and highlighting effective supports and therapeutic interventions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/b6/PMC2896835.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3837714", "abstract": "Background Heart failure (HF) is common in long-term care (LTC). Diagnostic uncertainty is important barrier to optimal HF management, stemming from inadequate health information transfer upon LTC admission. We determine the utility of admission clinical information to confirm a HF diagnosis in new LTC residents. Methods This was a prospective cohort study. From February 2004 to November 2006, information about new residents from 41 LTC homes in Ontario, Canada, was collected from residents and caregivers, and all available health records. A prior HF diagnosis was confirmed by consensus review of available data by two independent experts. Multivariate modelling was utilized to determine the utility of the admission clinical assessment in confirming a prior HF diagnosis. Results A total of 449 residents were included for analysis, aged 84.3±6.5 years, and 21.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/dc/cgj-16-147.PMC3837714.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4298431", "abstract": "Today, the comparative analysis of DNA molecules mainly uses information inferred from nucleotide substitutions. Insertion/deletion (INDEL) mutations, in contrast, are largely considered uninformative and discarded, due to our lacking knowledge on their evolution. However, including rather than discarding INDELs would be relevant to any research area in ecology and evolution that uses molecular data. As a practical approach to better understanding INDEL evolution in general, we propose the study of recent INDEL (reINDEL) mutations – mutations where both ancestral and derived state are seen in the sample. The precondition for reINDEL identification is knowledge about the pedigree of the individuals sampled. Sound reINDEL knowledge will allow the improved modeling needed for including INDELs in the downstream analysis of molecular data. Both microsatellites, currently still the predominant marker system in the analysis of populations, and sequences generated by next-generation sequencing, a promising and rapidly developing range of technologies, offer the opportunity for reINDEL identification. However, a 2013 sample of animal microsatellite studies contained unexpectedly few reINDELs identified. As most likely explanation, we hypothesize that reINDELs are underreported rather than absent and that this underreporting stems from common reINDEL unawareness. If our hypothesis applies, increased reINDEL awareness should allow gathering data rapidly. We recommend the routine reporting of either the absence or presence of reINDELs together with standardized key information on the nature of mutations when they are detected and the use of the keyword “reINDEL” to increase visibility in both instances of successful and unsuccessful search.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ca/6b/PMC4298431.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5138486", "abstract": "Ultrasound microbubble combined optic protection drugs have obvious protective effect on optic nerve damage. This way of targeting drug delivery is becoming more simple, not through the whole body metabolism, avoiding drug via blood circulation when facing the decomposition and the environment in the interference and destruction process of drugs, to maximize the guarantee to reach target organs of drug concentration and to reache the maximum therapeutic effect. The technique of ultrasound microbubbles is safe, controllable, nonimmunogenic, and repeatable. It provides us with a novel idea in the administration of neuroprotective drugs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/71/c2/PMC5138486.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5399205", "abstract": "Although most women with type 1 diabetes experience the normal transition to menopause, there is little information about the impact of hormone replacement therapy on their glycemic profiles. A 54-year-old postmenopausal woman with fulminant type 1 diabetes was admitted to our hospital due to diabetic ketoacidosis. She was treated with fluid replacement and a continuous insulin infusion. Thereafter, her glycemic profile was well maintained by daily multiple insulin injections. However, her glycemic profiles immediately deteriorated following the administration of progesterone in hormone replacement therapy. This transient deterioration implies that external progesterone can lead to the deterioration of glycemic profiles in postmenopausal women with type 1 diabetes. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/ca/1349-7235-56-0531.PMC5399205.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3180667", "abstract": "Although endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an effective modality for the diagnosis and treatment of biliary and pancreatic diseases, it is still related with several severe complications. We report on the case of a female patient who developed liver parenchyma perforation following ERCP. She underwent ERCP with sphincterotomy and extraction of a common bile duct stone. Shortly after ERCP, abdominal distension was identified. Abdominal computed tomography revealed intraabdominal air leakage and leakage of contrast dye penetrating the liver parenchyma into the space around the spleen. Since periampullary perforation related to sphincterotomy could not be denied, she was referred for immediate surgery. Obvious perforation could not be found at surgery. Cholecystectomy, insertion of a T tube into the common bile duct, placement of a duodenostomy tube and drainage of the retroperitoneum were performed. She did well postoperatively and was discharged home on postoperative day 28. In conclusion, as it is well recognized that perforation is one of the most serious complication related to ERCP, liver parenchyma perforation should be suspected as a cause.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9a/d8/crg0005-0487.PMC3180667.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3275929", "abstract": "Roll Back Malaria Initiative encourages participation of private health providers in malaria control because mothers seek care for sick children from them. This study investigated Patent Medicine Sellers (PMS) management of presumptive malaria in children in order to identify how they can assist malaria control. A cross-sectional survey of 491 PMS in Kaduna, Nigeria, was done using interviews and observation of shop activities. Most (80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/b4/PMC3275929.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3250652", "abstract": "Gallbladder agenesis is a rare entity with an estimated incidence of 10–65 per 100,000. Females are more commonly affected (ratio 3:1), typically presenting in the 2nd or 3rd decade of life. Despite an absent gallbladder, half of patients present with symptoms similar to biliary colic, which is poorly understood. Clinicians should have a strong index of suspicion if nonvisualization is suggested by an ultrasound. HIDA scans are typically not helpful since nonvisualization of the gallbladder remains typical of cystic duct obstruction as well as of agenesis. While there are no specific guidelines for management of gallbladder agenesis, conservative management with smooth muscle relaxants is preferred. Sphincterotomy also has been reported in severe cases. Here, we report a case of a 21-year-old woman who presented with recurrent biliary colic and was diagnosed to have gallbladder agenesis on magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. A comparison with other cases and a review of the literature are presented.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/41/aa/crg0005-0654.PMC3250652.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3131774", "abstract": "Yashada bhasma (Calx of Yashada i.e. Zinc) which has its main indication in Prameha (Diabetes) and Netra vikaras (Eye disorders) was prepared according to the prescription in the Ayurvedic classics and subjected to various bhasma parikshas, including the Namburi Phased Spot Test (NPST), one of the qualitative tests described for various Ayurvedic preparations. NPST helps differentiate between, and thus identify, various bhasmas. It depends upon the pattern of the spot, which develops after a specific chemical reaction. Three market samples of Yashada bhasma, which were said to be Parada marita (incinerated using Mercury), were also subjected to the above tests and results compared. The various bhasmas exhibited marked differences in colour, and though NPST yielded desired results for all the samples, there were differences in their spot patterns and colour. The bhasma prepared in our department produced the most accurate results.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/65/JAIM-2-69.PMC3131774.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3539053", "abstract": "A paradoxical embolism is defined as a systemic arterial embolism requiring the passage of a venous thrombus into the arterial circulatory system through a right-to-left shunt, and is commonly related to patent foramen ovale (PFO). However, coexisting pulmonary embolisms, deep vein thromboses (DVT), and multipe systemic arterial embolisms, associated with PFO, are rare. Here, we report a patient who had a cryptogenic ischemic stroke, associated with PFO, which is complicated with a massive pulmonary thromboembolism, DVT, and renal infarctions, and subsequently, the patient was treated using a thrombolytic therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/64/kcj-42-853.PMC3539053.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5016294", "abstract": "Diabetes mellitus is an increasing global health problem. Guidelines for diabetic care recommend management of lifestyle and risk factors (glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol), as well as regular screening for complications associated with treatment of the conditions related to diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes increased from 8.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/ec/kjim-2016-253.PMC5016294.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2988840", "abstract": "Fusarium species cause rare and severe infections. Their incidence is increasing in immunocompromised patients but they are also observed in healthy hosts. Because of the rapid dissemination of infection and the frequent resistance of Fusarium species to antifungal drugs, histopathologic evidence of hyphae is very helpful to obtain the diagnosis rapidly. We report the clinical and pathological features of two patients with initial cutaneous lesions. Cutaneous early biopsies showed microvessel involvement with hyphae and thrombosis. Fusarium infection was confirmed by skin culture. Hyphae within a microvessel thrombus in the skin were highly suggestive of disseminated fungal infection. These pathological features enabled to establish an early diagnosis and to start efficient antifungal treatment. In early cutaneous biopsies of immunocompromised patients, the presence of cutaneous vessel thrombosis can suggest a fungal infection and may help to start specific therapy without delay for these life-threatening infections.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/22/21/cde0002-0076.PMC2988840.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3959712", "abstract": "Background Although similar to cancer patients regarding symptom burden and prognosis, patients with heart failure (HF) tend to receive palliative care far less frequently. We sought to explore factors perceived by cardiology, primary care, and palliative care providers to impede palliative care referral for HF patients. Methods and Results We conducted semistructured interviews regarding (1) perceived needs of patients with advanced HF; (2) knowledge, attitudes, and experiences with specialist palliative care; (3) perceived indications for and optimal timing of palliative care referral in HF; and (4) perceived barriers to palliative care referral. Two investigators analyzed data using template analysis, a qualitative technique. We interviewed 18 physician, nurse practitioner, and physician assistant providers from 3 specialties: cardiology, primary care, and palliative care. Providers had limited knowledge regarding what palliative care is, and how it can complement traditional HF therapy to decrease HF‐related suffering. Interviews identified several potential barriers: the unpredictable course of HF; lack of clear referral triggers across the HF trajectory; and ambiguity regarding what differentiates standard HF therapy from palliative care. Nevertheless, providers expressed interest for integrating palliative care into traditional HF care, but were unsure of how to initiate collaboration. Conclusions Palliative care referral for HF patients may be suboptimal due to limited provider knowledge and misperceptions of palliative care as a service reserved for those near death. These factors represent potentially modifiable targets for provider education, which may help to improve palliative care referral for HF patients with unresolved disease‐related burden.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/fe/jah3-3-e000544.PMC3959712.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3424993", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE In adults, the shape of the glucose response during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) prospectively and independently predicts type 2 diabetes. However, no reports have described the utility of this indicator in younger populations. The purpose of this study was to compare type 2 diabetes risk factors in Latino adolescents characterized by either a monophasic or biphasic glucose response during an OGTT. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 156 nondiabetic Latino adolescents completed a 2-h OGTT. Monophasic and biphasic groups were compared for the following type 2 diabetes risk factors: fasting and 2-h glucose, HbA1c, glucose area under the curve (AUC), insulin sensitivity (Matsuda index), insulin secretion (insulinogenic index), and β-cell function as measured by the disposition index (insulin sensitivity × insulin secretion). RESULTS Of the participants, 107 youth were categorized as monophasic and 49 were biphasic. Compared with the monophasic group, participants with a biphasic response exhibited lower HbA1c (5.4 ± 0.3 vs. 5.6 ± 0.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/32/1925.PMC3424993.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3581360", "abstract": "Background The purpose of this study was to assess the outcome of pars plana vitrectomy using a 20-gauge transconjunctival cannulated sutureless system with air or silicone oil tamponade in cases of retinal detachment of different etiologies. Methods A prospective study was performed in 60 eyes from consecutive 60 patients who underwent 20-gauge transconjunctival cannulated sutureless vitrectomy (30 eyes with air tamponade and 30 eyes with silicone oil tamponade), with the inclusion of a further 30 patients who underwent conventional 20-gauge vitrectomy and served as a control group. The main outcome measures were intraocular pressure, wound leakage, and comfort score. Results Preoperative intraocular pressure increased from 17.67 ± 5.6 mmHg preoperatively to 18.78 ± 6.1 mmHg on the first postoperative day in group A and decreased from 16.97 ± 4.9 mmHg to 15.88 ± 5.3 mmHg in group B. These changes were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The comfort score ranged from 1 to 5 (1 = very bad, 2 = bad, 3 = good, 4 = very good, and 5 = excellent), with a mean of 4.4 ± 0.94 in group A and 4.35 ± 0.99 in group B on the first postoperative day, and no significant difference in scores between the groups at any follow-up visit. There was intraoperative wound leakage in two cases (6.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3c/06/PMC3581360.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3312280", "abstract": "This study explored the effects of reactive nitrogen metabolites (RNMS) on natural-killer- (NK-) cell-mediated killing of K562 cells and the influence of RNM scavengers, such as tiopronin (TIP), glutamylcysteinylglycine (GSH), and histamine dihydrochloride (DHT), on reversing the suppressing effect of RNM. We administered exogenous and endogenous RNM in the NK + K562 culture system and then added RNM scavengers. The concentrations of RNM, TNF-β and IFN-γ, and NK-cell cytotoxicity (NCC) and the percentage of living NK cells were then examined. We found that both exogenous and endogenous RNM caused the KIR to decrease (P < 0.01); however, RNM scavengers such as TIP and GSH rescued this phenomenon dose dependently. In conclusion, our data suggests that RNM scavengers such as TIP and GSH enhance the antineoplasmic activity of NK cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bc/f3/PMC3312280.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4485678", "abstract": "To examine the association between body mass index (BMI), use of menopausal hormone therapy (HT), and incidence of uterine fibroids in postmenopausal women, 610,604 postmenopausal women without prior hysterectomy or diagnosis of fibroids were followed as part of a large United Kingdom prospective cohort study. We used Cox regression models to calculate adjusted relative risks (RRs) of surgically-confirmed fibroids (defined as a hospital admission with uterine fibroids as a primary diagnosis with a related surgical procedure), in relation to BMI and use of HT. During an average of 11.4 years of follow-up, 3561 women were admitted to hospital with surgically-confirmed fibroids. Five-year incidence rates decreased with age, from 0.50 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/25/3a/PMC4485678.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4877488", "abstract": " Objective. Use of tyramide signal amplification (TSA) to detect autophagy biomarkers in formalin fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) xenograft tissue. Materials and Methods. Autophagy marker regulation was studied in xenograft tissues using Amp HQ IHC and standard IHC methods. Results. The data demonstrate the feasibility of using high sensitivity TSA IHC assays to measure low abundant autophagy markers in FFPE xenograft tissue.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c6/4b/PMC4877488.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4424721", "abstract": "Cytochrome P450 1B1 (Cyp1b1) belongs to the CYP450 superfamily of heme-binding mono-oxygenases which catalyze oxidation of various endogenous and exogenous substrates. The expression of Cyp1b1 plays an important role in the modulation of development and functions of the trabecular meshwork (TM). Mutations in Cyp1b1 have been reported in patients with primary congenital glaucoma (PCG). Mice lacking Cyp1b1 also exhibit developmental defects in the TM similar to those reported in congenital glaucoma patients. However, how Cyp1b1 deficiency contributes to TM dysgenesis remains unknown. In the present review, we will address the significance of Cyp1b1 expression and/or its function in anterior segment development. Cyp1b1-deficient (Cyp1b1−/−) mice are discussed as a promising model for an oxidative stress-induced model of PCG, in which Cyp1b1 activity is revealed as an important modulator of oxidative homeostasis contributing to the development and structural function of the TM. This conclusion suggests a possible clinical intervention for individuals who are genetically at high risk of developing PCG.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/76/66/JOVR-10-60.PMC4424721.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3805015", "abstract": " [Purpose] The purpose of this study was to perform kinematic and kinetic analyses of the ankle during both forward and backward walking using three-dimensional motion analysis. [Subjects] The subjects were 11 healthy adults. [Methods] Measurements of forward and backward walking motions were taken using a three-dimensional motion analysis device and 3 ground reaction force plates. The analysis segment was the standing phase and the items analyzed were walking time, maximum dorsal flexion of the ankle, maximum angle of plantar flexion, peak ankle power in the sagittal plane, workload of the ankle, and work rate. Statistical analysis consisted of comparisons using the t-test for each of the items measured during both forward and backward walking. [Results] The backward walking group had significantly lower ankle power, workload, and work rate. [Conclusion] The propulsive force in backward walking must come from some factor other than the ankle. The analysis of joint power is an important index for understanding the motion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1e/ee/jpts-25-747.PMC3805015.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4176909", "abstract": " Background. Efficacy of standard dose of primaquine (PQ) as antirelapse for P. vivax has decreased. We aimed to assess efficacy of different PQ regimens. Methods. It was an open label, randomized, controlled, parallel group, assessor blind study comparing antirelapse efficacy of 3 PQ regimens (B = 15 mg/day × 14 days, C = 30 mg/day × 7 days, and D = 30 mg/day × 14 days) with no PQ group (A) in P. vivax patients. Paired primary and recurrence samples were subjected to 3 methods: (i) month of recurrence and genotyping, (ii) by PCR-RFLP, and (iii) PCR sequencing, to differentiate relapse and reinfection. The rates of recurrence relapse and reinfection were compared. Methods were compared for concordance between them. Results. The recurrence rate was 16.39", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/49/2b/PMC4176909.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4167316", "abstract": "Ku70, a DNA repair factor in the nucleus, also regulates cell death by binding to the apoptotic protein Bax in the cytoplasm. Acetylation of Ku70 triggers Bax release resulting in Bax dependent cell death. Thus dissociating Bax from Ku70, either by inhibiting histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) that deacetylates Ku70 or by increasing Ku70 acetylation induces cell death. Our results showed that in neuroblastoma cells, the depletion of Ku70 results in Bax-dependent cell death. This model provides a rationale for screening Ku70 acetylation modulators that can be tested in clinical trials, either alone or in combination with radiotherapy or DNA-damaging agents for the treatment of cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7d/f2/PMC4167316.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4486176", "abstract": "Sinus of Valsalva aneurysms are rare. Sinus of Valsalva aneurysms are frequently associated with ventricular septal defect (VSD) and aortic regurgitation. They often remain asymptomatic until abruptly presenting with acute chest pain and heart failure secondary to rupture. Here, we describe a case of 20-year-old man who presented with chest pain with a history of VSD. Initial work-up concluded that the patient had VSD associated membranous septal aneurysm. Four years later, the patient presented with symptoms of heart failure. Work-up showed that the ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm was the cause of symptoms. Due to its close proximity to the aortic annulus, sinus of Valsalva aneurysm should be differentiated from membranous septal aneurysm.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4b/00/jcu-23-113.PMC4486176.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4902468", "abstract": "Abstract Complications following snake bites are not common in France. We report the case of a bilateral pulmonary embolism following a viper envenomation in France. A healthy 72-year-old female presented with a lower limb hematoma following a viper bite. She was admitted at the hospital 2 days later and received low-molecular-weight heparin because of bed rest. Seven days later, she complained of thoracic pain and respiratory failure, and a bilateral pulmonary was diagnosed, without biological sign of neither disseminated intravascular coagulation nor coagulation trouble. Repeated lower limbs Doppler ultrasound were normal. This case is particularly interesting because it is only the 7th reported case of pulmonary embolism following a snake envenomation; moreover, it happened in France where poisonous snakes are very rare. Several hypotheses have been made to explain this late localized coagulopathy: an increased level of unstable fibrin produced by thrombin-like glycoproteins from the venom is one of them.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/07/medi-95-e2798.PMC4902468.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC420066", "abstract": "Adequate oxygenation at all times is of paramount importance to the critically injured patient to avoid secondary damage. The role of endotracheal intubation in out-of-hospital advanced trauma life support, however, remains controversial. Initiated by a recent observational study, this commentary discusses risks and benefits associated with prehospital intubation, the required personnel and training, and ethical implications. Recent evidence suggests that comprehensive ventilatory care already initiated in the field and maintained during transport may require the presence of a physician or another adequately skilled person at the scene. Benefits of such as service need to be balanced against increased costs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/39/21/PMC420066.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4190919", "abstract": " Aim. The efficacy of the short hydration regimen was reported in chemotherapy containing intermediate- to high-dose cisplatin, and the use of outpatient chemotherapy containing cisplatin with short hydration has been widespread in recent years. Methods. We compared patients with gastric cancer, lung cancer, and urothelial cancer who received outpatient chemotherapy containing cisplatin (≥60 mg/m2/cycle) with the short hydration regimen since April 2012 (n = 13) with those who received hospital chemotherapy with continuous hydration between April 2011 and March 2013 (n = 17) in our hospital. Results. Grade 2 or higher acute kidney injury occurred in 2 patients in the continuous hydration group and in no patient in the short hydration group; 1 patient discontinued treatment on account of nephrotoxicity. There was no difference between the 2 groups in maximum creatinine increment and maximum clearance decrement. Relative dose intensity in the short hydration group was higher than that in the continuous hydration group (89.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/ef/PMC4190919.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2196328", "abstract": "Tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)–associated factor 2 (TRAF2) and TRAF1 were found as components of the TNFR2 signaling complex, which exerts multiple biological effects on cells such as cell proliferation, cytokine production, and cell death. In the TNFR2-mediated signaling pathways, TRAF2 works as a mediator for activation signals such as NF-κB, but the role of TRAF1 has not been previously determined. Here we show in transgenic mice that TRAF1 overexpression inhibits antigen-induced apoptosis of CD8+ T lymphocytes. Our results demonstrate a biological role for TRAF1 as a regulator of apoptotic signals and also support the hypothesis that the combination of TRAF proteins in a given cell type determines distinct biological effects triggered by members of the TNF receptor superfamily.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/02/5533.PMC2196328.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5118754", "abstract": "Limbal epithelial progenitors are stem cells located in limbal palisades of vogt. In this review, we present the audience with recent evidence that limbal epithelial progenitors may be a powerful stem cell resource for the cure of human corneal stem cell deficiency. Further understanding of their mechanism may shed lights to the future successful application of stem cell therapy not only to the eye tissue, but also to the other tissues in the human body.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ef/52/PMC5118754.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2901939", "abstract": "We describe the first reported cases of invasive type e Haemophilus influenzae disease in Italy. All five cases occurred in adults. The isolates were susceptible to ampicillin and eight other antimicrobial agents. Molecular analysis showed two distinct type e strains circulating in Italy, both containing a single copy of the capsulation locus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c0/6f/PMC2901939.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3010645", "abstract": "There is ample historical verification of 46,XX congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) patients being born with essentially male genitaliawhile  outcome information  is scant.  Prior to glucocorticoid therapy, most patients died very young from adrenal insufficiency.  Most available reports from laterchildhood,  contain little information concerning sexual identity.  Reports on older individuals lack adequate information about sexual identity and quality of life.  The difficulty in assessing the relative impact of multiple dynamic environmental factors on the development of sexual identity, self- and body esteem and overall adjustment to life is clear. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether those infants whose masculine genitalia at birth resulted in an initial male assignment would have enjoyed a better adult outcome had they been allowed to remain male rather than the female reassignment that most received. Further, one could ask whether a male sex of rearing should be considered in 46,XX CAH infants with male external genitalia. After reviewing available literature, we conclude that because those extremely virlized 46,XX CAH patients who were reared male with healthy social support demonstrated satisfactory levels of social and sexual function as adults a male sex assignment should be considered in these types of infants when social and cultural environment are supportive.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5a/18/PMC3010645.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3698899", "abstract": "Medicine is an ever changing field and interventional radiology (IR) procedures are becoming increasingly popular because of high efficacy and its minimally invasive nature of the procedure. Management of disease processes in the extra cranial head and neck (ECHN) has always been a challenge due to the complex anatomy of the region. Cross sectional imaging of the ECHN has grown and evolved tremendously and occupies a pivotal and integral position in the clinical management of variety of head and neck pathologies. Advances in angiographic technologies including flat panel detector systems, biplane, and 3-dimensional rotational angiography have consolidated and expanded the role of IR in the management of various ECHN pathologies. The ECHN is at cross roads between the origins of great vessels and the cerebral vasculature. Thorough knowledge of functional and technical aspects of neuroangiography is essential before embarking on head and neck vascular interventions. The vessels of the head and neck can be involved by infectious and inflammatory conditions, get irradiated during radiotherapy and injured due to trauma or iatrogenic cause. The ECHN is also a common site for various hypervascular neoplasms and vascular malformations, which can be treated with endovascular and percutaneous embolization. This pictorial essay provides a review of variety of ECHN pathologies which were managed by various IR procedures using different approaches.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/99/IJRI-22-350.PMC3698899.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3656812", "abstract": "Background Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in older adults. Although diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for pneumonia, the clinical impact of blood glucose level at the time of admission is not clear. Our goal was to examine the association between admission hyperglycemia and subsequent mortality, length of stay, and readmission outcomes in older adults with CAP. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted using hospital data for community-acquired pneumonia admissions in 857 persons from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2010. We examined the effects of admission glucose level on mortality, length of stay, and 30 day readmission, adjusted for demographic factors and comorbidity. Results The mean age of the sample was 64 years, and 51", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/bd/PMC3656812.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2884217", "abstract": "Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a painful and disabling disorder that can affect one or more extremities. Unfortunately, the knowledge concerning its natural history and mechanism is very limited and many current rationales in treatment of CRPS are mainly dependent on efficacy originated in other common conditions of neuropathic pain. Therefore, in this study, we present a case using a total spinal block (TSB) for the refractory pain management of a 16-year-old male CRPS patient, who suffered from constant stabbing and squeezing pain, with severe touch allodynia in the left upper extremity following an operation of chondroblastoma. After the TSB, the patient's continuous and spontaneous pain became mild and the allodynia disappeared and maintained decreased for 1 month.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/16/f8/kjp-23-70.PMC2884217.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4099330", "abstract": "Background/Aims A close relationship has been established between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and an elevated risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), but little is known about the association between alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) and CHD risk. The aim of this study was to determine whether AFLD is associated with elevated CHD risk. Methods We retrospectively enrolled 10,710 subjects out of 11,469 individuals who visited the Konkuk University Health Care Center for a routine health checkup in 2010. AFLD was diagnosed made when the usual amount of alcohol consumption exceeded 210 g/week in males and 140 g/week in females for the previous 2 years and when hepatic steatosis was detected by liver ultrasonography. The 10-year risk for CHD was estimated using the Framingham Risk Score. Results Hepatic steatosis was diagnosed in 4,142 of the 10,710 individuals (38.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/80/cmh-20-154.PMC4099330.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3845242", "abstract": " Background. TNF-α inhibitors have shown to be effective in reducing disease activity and improving the quality of life. Due to the high costs associated with acquisition of this treatment, this study was undertaken to evaluate the ICER of TNF-α antagonists (etanercept, adalimumab, and infliximab) in improving the quality of life. Methods. The HAQ and SF-36 were administered at phases 1, 2, and 3, in order to assess the improvement in the QOL. Suppression of disease activity was assessed through the DAS-28. Results. Statistically significant improvements (P < 0.05) were noted for the SF-36 and HAQ after 3 months and for the DAS-28 after 6 months of TNF-α inhibitor therapy. The mean ICER per 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/22/38/PMC3845242.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5365183", "abstract": "Objective: Intra-abdominal fat is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer (PC), but little is known about its contribution to PC precursors known as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs). Our goal was to evaluate quantitative radiologic measures of abdominal/visceral obesity as possible diagnostic markers of IPMN severity/pathology. Methods: In a cohort of 34 surgically-resected, pathologically-confirmed IPMNs (17 benign; 17 malignant) with preoperative abdominal computed tomography (CT) images, we calculated body mass index (BMI) and four radiologic measures of obesity: total abdominal fat (TAF) area, visceral fat area (VFA), subcutaneous fat area (SFA), and visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio (V/S). Measures were compared between groups using Wilcoxon two-sample exact tests and other metrics. Results: Mean BMI for individuals with malignant IPMNs (28.9 kg/m2) was higher than mean BMI for those with benign IPMNs (25.8 kg/m2) (P=0.045). Mean VFA was higher for patients with malignant IPMNs (199.3 cm2) compared to benign IPMNs (120.4 cm2),P=0.092. V/S was significantly higher (P=0.013) for patients with malignant versus benign IPMNs (1.25vs. 0.69 cm2), especially among females. The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value of V/S in predicting malignant IPMN pathology were 74", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7b/4d/cbm-14-1-66.PMC5365183.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5410433", "abstract": "Objectives Any change in maxilla and mandible position can alter the upper airway, and any decrease in the upper airway can cause sleep disorders. Thus, it is necessary to assess airway changes after repositioning of the maxilla and mandible during orthognathic surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate linear and volumetric changes in the upper airway after bimaxillary surgery to correct class III malocclusion via cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to identify correlations between linear and volumetric changes. Materials and Methods This was a prospective cohort study. CBCTs from 10 class III patients were evaluated before surgery and three months after. The Wilcoxon one-sample test was used to evaluate the differences in measurements before and after surgery. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was used to test the correlation between linear and volumetric changes. Results The results show that the nasopharyngeal space increased significantly, and that this increase correlated with degree of maxillary advancement. No significant changes were found in volumes before and after surgery. A correlation was found between linear and volumetric oropharyngeal changes. Conclusion Bimaxillary surgical correction of class III malocclusion did not cause statistically significant changes in the posterior airway space.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/74/jkaoms-43-88.PMC5410433.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3227504", "abstract": " Background. Nonresectable neuroendocrine tumour (NET) liver metastases respond poorly to most widely available and used therapies. Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT) is becoming recognized as a new modality for selectively treating non-resectable liver tumours. This paper presents an experience of 14 patients with non-resectable NET liver metastases treated with SIRT.  Methods. Between September 1997 and October 2009 14 patients with extensive NET liver metastases were treated with 2.0 to 3.0 GBq of 90Yttrium microspheres. Repeat SIRT was undertaken in three patients after 16, 27, and 48 months, respectively. Responses were assessed clinically, biochemically, and with serial CT scans. Survival was measured from initial SIRT.  Results. Some response was seen in all 14 patients. Carcinoid syndrome improved or resolved in 10/10 instances. 24-hour urinary 5-HIAA or serum chromogranin A levels fell dramatically in 5/7 patients following SIRT. Serial CT scans revealed partial response or stable disease in all 14 patients. Repeat treatment in three patients experiencing progression was associated with a further response. Median survival after SIRT is 25 months with 6 patients being alive (and 3 patients still asymptomatic), at 19, 22, 23, 23, 58, and 60 months. Conclusions. SIRT is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for non-resectable NET liver metastases capable of both alleviating the carcinoid syndrome and achieving significant tumour regression. Repeat treatment is an option and liver resection after downstaging may also become possible.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e4/b6/PMC3227504.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4508608", "abstract": "Infantile hemangiomas as frequent infancy tumors have been a controversial issue of medical scientists worldwide. Their clinical aspects are various and their physiopathology is yet to be fully understood. Numerous publications outline the characteristics, causes, evolution possibilities and therapeutic approaches. Deciding whether to treat or not is the main question of this kind of pathology. Hemangiomas that have complications or can cause irreversible damage need therapy. This is a brief review of up-to-date information regarding the presentation of infantile hemangiomas and target-therapies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/64/55/cm8801p23.PMC4508608.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4102751", "abstract": "Spontaneous anterior cerebral artery (ACA) dissection, although extremely rare, is often associated with severe morbidity and mortality. It could lead to cerebral hemorrhage, ischemic stroke, or, rarely, combination of hemorrhage and ischemia due to hemodynamic changes. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the appropriate management. However, the optimal treatment for ACA dissection remains controversial. Herein, we report on two rare cases of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) caused by ACA dissection; a case presenting with simultaneous SAH and infarction without aneurysmal formation and another case presenting with SAH with fusiform aneurysmal formation. A review of the related literature is provided, and optimal treatments for each type of dissection are suggested.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4b/52/jcen-16-119.PMC4102751.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3065054", "abstract": "Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma (SPTCL) is a very rare form of skin lymphoma that is localized primarily to the subcutaneous adipose tissue without palpable involvement of the lymph nodes. Diagnosis of SPTCL is a challenge, especially during its early phases when symptoms mimic other, more common conditions, such as benign panniculitis, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and cellulitis. Clinical and systemic features are nonspecific and can include fever, chills, and weight loss. Further complicating diagnosis is the high number of false negatives provided by biopsy. Here we present a case of SPTCL that illustrates the full course of the disease, from presentation and multiple misdiagnoses to correct disease recognition and successful treatment. A review of the challenges of diagnosis is provided with recommendations for more accurate and timely recognition of SPTCL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/c3/PMC3065054.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4258494", "abstract": "Baker's cyst is a distension of the gastrocnemius-semimembranosus bursa of the knee, which communicates with the posterior portion of the joint capsule. Baker's cyst is commonly located in the inferomedial or superficial layers of the knee joint and rarely extends laterally or proximally. Complications of Baker's cysts are dissection, rupture, pseudothrombophlebitis, leg ischemia, nerve entrapment, and compartment syndrome. However, hematomas in the Baker's cyst have not been reported in Korea. We report a rare case of hematoma in the Baker's cyst with subfascial extension into the calf. The hematoma was demonstrated by magnetic resonance imaging and removed by mass excision.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/09/26/ksrr-26-253.PMC4258494.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2698967", "abstract": "The relationship between individual and population health is partially built on the broad dichotomization of medicine into clinical medicine and public health. Potential drawbacks of current views include seeing both individual and population health as absolute and independent concepts. I will argue that the relationship between individual and population health is largely relative and dynamic. Their interrelated dynamism derives from a causally defined life course perspective on health determination starting from an individual’s conception through growth, development and participation in the collective till death, all seen within the context of an adaptive society. Indeed, it will become clear that neither individual nor population health is identifiable or even definable without informative contextualization within the other. For instance, a person’s health cannot be seen in isolation but must be placed in the rich contextual web such as the socioeconomic circumstances and other health determinants of where they were conceived, born, bred, and how they shaped and were shaped by their environment and communities, especially given the prevailing population health exposures over their lifetime. We cannot discuss the “what” and “how much” of individual and population health until we know the cumulative trajectories of both, using appropriate causal language.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/1b/PMC2698967.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3242024", "abstract": "Mitochondrial encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome is a multisystem disorder, which is clinically characterized by encephalopathy, dementia, seizures and stroke-like episodes. Multiple organs can be affected and cardiac involvement often dominates the clinical picture because of its high energy requirement. We report a case of a 21-year-old woman with MELAS syndrome who had pre-excitation ECG and one episode of tachycardia attack.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/96/kcj-41-674.PMC3242024.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3303906", "abstract": "We report successful outcomes after endovascular placement of a stent graft in a 74- and a 77-year-old men, both of whom had malignant superior vena cava syndrome caused by squamous cell carcinoma. In each patient, successful palliation of the malignant superior vena cava syndrome was achieved by placement of a stent graft. No procedure-related complications were observed. The patients were asymptomatic until their deaths, seven and 14 months after stent graft placement, respectively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4b/2d/kjr-13-227.PMC3303906.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2939436", "abstract": "Circadian Rhythm Disturbances (CRDs) affect as many as a quarter of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients during some stage of their illness. Alterations in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and melatonin secretion are the major factors linked with the cause of CRDs. As a result, the normal physiology of sleep, the biological clock, and core body temperature are affected. This paper systematically discusses some of the causative factors, typical symptoms, and treatment options for CRDs in patients with AD. This paper also emphasizes the implementation of behavioral and environmental therapies before embarking on medications to treat CRDs. Pharmacotherapeutic options are summarized to provide symptomatic benefits for the patient and relieve stress on their families and professional care providers. As of today, there are few studies relative to CRDs in AD. Large randomized trials are warranted to evaluate the effects of treatments such as bright light therapy and engaging activities in the reduction of CRDs in AD patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/90/7b/PMC2939436.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4913017", "abstract": "Controversial findings are reported about the relationship between floppy eyelid syndrome (FES) and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). The main goal of this study was to evaluate whether FES is more prevalent in OSAS patients by performing a meta-analysis. A comprehensive literature search of Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane databases was performed. Only studies related to the prevalence of FES in OSAS were included in the meta-analysis. We estimated a pooled odds ratio (OR) for the prevalence of FES in OSAS. In total, 6 studies with 767 participants met the inclusion criteria. Using a fixed-effects model, the pooled OR was 4.12. The test for the overall effect revealed that FES was statistically prevalent in OSAS patients when compared with that in non-OSAS subjects (Z = 4.98, p < 0.00001). In the subgroup analysis by OSAS severity, the incidence of FES in OSAS increased with severity of OSAS as indicated with increased OR values (OR = 2.56, 4.62, and 7.64 for mild, moderate, and severe OSAS). In conclusion, the results indicate that FES is more prevalent in OSAS patients. However, this result was based only on unadjusted estimates. Prospective cohort studies are needed to determine whether OSAS is an independent risk factor for FES.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/20/63/PMC4913017.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4893392", "abstract": " Background. The flexion relaxation ratio (FRR) has been suggested as a measure of muscular performance in patients with low back pain (LBP). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the FRR was responsive to acute LBP produced from a delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) protocol. Methods. Fifty-one pain-free volunteers performed DOMS to induce LBP. Current pain intensity, trunk flexion range of motion (ROM), and passive straight leg raise (SLR) were measured at baseline, 24 and 48 hours after DOMS. Participants were categorized into pain groups based on reported current pain intensity. Changes in FRR, trunk flexion ROM, and SLR ROM were examined using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance. Results. Pain group was not found to have a significant effect on FRR (F 1,29 = 0.054, P = 0.818), nor were there any two-way interactions for changes in FRR. The pain group had decreased trunk flexion ROM compared to the minimal pain group (F 1,38 = 7.21, P = 0.011), but no decreases in SLR ROM (F 1,38 = 3.51, P = 0.057) over time. Interpretation. There were no differences in FRR based on reported pain intensity of LBP from a DOMS protocol. The responsiveness of FRR might be limited in patients with acute onset LBP of muscular origin.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/64/PMC4893392.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4608343", "abstract": "Introduction: Hanging is one of the most commonly used way to commit suicide in many countries. This method used in suicide is considered a problem in Iran too, but no clear data exists regarding hanging in different regions or the country as a whole. Because of the epidemiologic differences in non-judicial hanging in different regions, this study aimed to assess it in Gilan province, Iran between 2011 and 2013.  Methods: In this cross-sectional study, profiles of hanging cases registered in Poorsina hospital in Gilan, Iran between 2011 and 2013 were evaluated. Age, sex, marital status, place of residency, level of education, occupation, history of suicide, history of clinical illness, season of suicide and hanging outcome were evaluated.  Results: 59 cases of hanging (mean age 31.4 ± 13.1 years and 83.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2e/b9/emerg-3-155.PMC4608343.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3317455", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to evaluate prognostic and/or diagnostic factors of canine mammary tumors by immunohistochemically analyzing the expression of alpha basic crystallin (αB-c). For this, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded blocks of 51 naturally-occurring canine mammary tumors (11 benign and 40 malignant) were used. Tissue from eight normal canine mammary glands were served as a control. Immunohistochemically, in the control mammary tissues, a few luminal epithelial cells were αB-c positive but myoepithelial cells were negative. In benign or simple type malignant tumors, αB-c expression was observed in luminal epithelial cells while the myoepithelial basal cells were negative. In benign or complex type malign tumors, positive staining was predominantly found in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells. Immunoreactivity of αB-c was also observed in neoplastic myoepithelial cells. Statistically, the number of cells immunolabeled with αB-c was found to be significantly different among tissues from normal canine mammary glands, benign lesions, and malignant tumors (p < 0.05). αB-c immunoreactivity was higher in malignant tumors than the control mammary tissues (p < 0.001). Data obtained in the current study revealed a strong association between high expression levels of αB-c and primary mammary gland tumors in canines.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/80/jvs-13-39.PMC3317455.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3412374", "abstract": "We propose a smart medication dispenser having a high degree of scalability and remote manageability. We construct the dispenser to have extensible hardware architecture for achieving scalability, and we install an agent program in it for achieving remote manageability. The dispenser operates as follows: when the real-time clock reaches the predetermined medication time and the user presses the dispense button at that time, the predetermined medication is dispensed from the medication dispensing tray (MDT). In the proposed dispenser, the medication for each patient is stored in an MDT. One smart medication dispenser contains mainly one MDT; however, the dispenser can be extended to include more MDTs in order to support multiple users using one dispenser. For remote management, the proposed dispenser transmits the medication status and the system configurations to the monitoring server. In the case of a specific event such as a shortage of medication, memory overload, software error, or non-adherence, the event is transmitted immediately. All these operations are performed automatically without the intervention of patients, through the agent program installed in the dispenser. Results of implementation and verification show that the proposed dispenser operates normally and performs the management operations from the medication monitoring server suitably.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9c/6d/PMC3412374.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4883190", "abstract": "Background Pain management can be challenging in frail older people with cancer due to drug–drug interactions and heightened susceptibility to adverse drug events. Objective To investigate the relationship between analgesic use and pain by frailty status in older outpatients with cancer. Methods A total of 385 consecutive patients aged 70 years and over who presented to an outpatient oncology clinic between January 2009 and July 2010 completed structured assessments of analgesic use (opioids, paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), pain (10-point visual analogue scale) and clinical factors. Frailty was derived using modified Fried’s frailty phenotype. Logistic regression was used to compute adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/68/f2/40801_2015_Article_22.PMC4883190.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3502733", "abstract": "Purpose There are limited data on the role of limited pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) in patients with prostate cancer in Korea. The objective of this study was to demonstrate our clinical experience with limited PLND and the difference in its yield between open retropubic radical prostatectomy (RRP) and robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) for prostate cancer patients in Korea. Materials and Methods We retrospectively analyzed 601 consecutive patients undergoing radical prostatectomy and bilateral limited PLND by either RRP (n=247) or RALP (n=354) in Asan Medical Center. All patients were divided into three groups according to the D'Amico's risk stratification method. Clinicopathologic data, including the yield of lymph nodes, were thoroughly reviewed and compared among the three risk groups or between the RRP and RALP subjects. Results The mean patient age was 64.9 years and the mean preoperative prostate-specific antigen was 9.8 ng/ml. The median number of removed lymph nodes per patient was 5 (range, 0 to 20). The numbers of patients of each risk group were 167, 199, and 238, and the numbers of patients with tumor-positive lymph nodes were 1 (0.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/01/5c/kju-53-755.PMC3502733.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4619953", "abstract": "Myeloproliferative neoplasms (essential thrombocythemia, ET; polycythemia vera, PV; myelofibrosis, MF) are monoclonal malignancies associated with genomic instability, dysregulated signaling pathways, and subsequent overproduction of inflammatory markers. Acknowledged for their debilitating symptom profiles, recent investigations have aimed to determine the identity of these markers, the upstream sources stimulating their development, their prevalence within the MPN population, and the role they play in symptom development. Creation of dedicated Patient Reported Outcome (PRO) tools, in combination with expanded access to cytokine analysis technology, has resulted in a surge of investigations evaluating the potential associations between symptoms and inflammation. Emerging data demonstrates clear relationships between individual MPN symptoms (fatigue, abdominal complaints, microvascular symptoms, and constitutional symptoms) and cytokines, particularly IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. Information is also compiling on the role symptoms paradoxically play in the development of cytokines, as in the case of fatigue-driven sedentary lifestyles. In this paper, we explore the symptoms inherent to the MPN disorders and the potential role inflammation plays in their development.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/4a/PMC4619953.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4339167", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to explore the effects of different frequencies of rhythmic auditory cueing (RAC) on stride length, cadence, and gait speed in healthy young females. The findings of this study might be used as clinical guidance of physical therapy for choosing the suitable frequency of RAC. [Subjects] Thirteen healthy young females were recruited in this study. [Methods] Ten meters walking tests were measured in all subjects under 4 conditions with each repeated 3 times and a 3-min seated rest period between repetitions. Subjects first walked as usual and then were asked to listen carefully to the rhythm of a metronome and walk with 3 kinds of RAC (90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/fb/jpts-27-485.PMC4339167.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5334150", "abstract": "Because many technical descriptions of scientific processes and phenomena are difficult to paraphrase and because an increasing proportion of contributors to the scientific literature are not sufficiently proficient at writing in English, it is proposed that journal editors re-examine their approaches toward instances of textual reuse (similarity). The plagiarism definition by the US Office of Research Integrity (ORI) is more suitable than other definitions for dealing with cases of ostensible plagiarism. Editors are strongly encouraged to examine cases of textual reuse in the context of both, the ORI guidance and the offending authors' proficiency in English. Editors should also reconsider making plagiarism determinations based exclusively on text similarity scores reported by plagiarism detection software.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/0e/jkms-32-557.PMC5334150.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC240109", "abstract": "Background It has been suggested that an extensive contractile reserve identified recognised by means of dobutamine stress echocardiography may predict a better prognosis in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction at rest. However, the clinical use of dobutamine stress echocardiography may be limited in patients with chronic heart failure by the substantial proportion of such patients treated with beta-blockers, since the inotropic response to adrenergic stimulation is known to be attenuated in patients receiving beta-adrenoceptor blockers. Enoximone is a positive inotropic agent that inhibits cyclic adenosine monophosphate-specific phosphosdiesterase. We therefore tested the hypothesis that enoximone may be an alternative to dobutamine in evaluating left ventricular contractile reserve in patients with systolic dysfunction on chronic beta-blocker therapy. Methods We studied 26 patients (21 males and five females) with a mean age of 58 ± 10 years: 11 were not receiving beta-blockers (noBB group); 15 were receiving carvedilol at a mean dose of 34 mg/day (BB group). Dobutamine was infused at doses of 5 and 10 micrograms/kg/min, and enoximone at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg. Results The ejection fraction in the noBB group increased by 9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0c/13/PMC240109.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4792993", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study applied whole body vibration (WBV) at different vibration frequencies to chronic stroke patients and examined its immediate effect on their postural sway. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 14 (5 males, 9 females) stroke patients participated. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of the two vibration frequency groups (10 Hz and 40 Hz). Right before and after the application of WBV, the subjects performed quiet standing for 30 seconds, and COP parameters (range, total distance, and mean velocity) were analyzed. [Results] The 10 Hz WBV did not affect the postural sway of stroke patients. The 40 Hz WBV increased postural sway in the ML direction. [Conclusion] The results suggest that WBV application to stroke patients in the clinical field may have adverse effects and therefore caution is necessary.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9b/66/jpts-28-473.PMC4792993.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5363504", "abstract": "There is an unmet need in the development of an effective therapy for mutant K-ras-expressing non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although various small molecules have been evaluated, an effective therapy remains a dream. siRNAs have the potential to downregulate mutant K-ras both at the protein and mRNA levels. However, a safe and effective delivery of siRNAs to tumors remains a limitation to their translational application in the treatment of this highly debilitating disease. Here we developed a novel hybrid nanoparticle carrier for effective delivery of anti-mutant K-ras to NSCLC (AKSLHN). The ability of this treatment modality to regress lung tumors in mouse models was evaluated as a monotherapy or as a combination treatment with erlotinib. Further, the toxicity of this treatment modality to healthy tissues was evaluated, along with its ability to elicit immune/inflammatory reactions. The results suggest that this treatment modality is a promising prospect for the treatment of mutant K-ras-expressing NSCLC without any accompanying toxicity. However, further understanding of the cellular-level interaction between AHSLHN and erlotinib needs to be attained before this promising treatment modality can be brought to the bedside.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/1c/main.PMC5363504.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4360724", "abstract": "Ureteric strictures can be caused by traumatic pelvic surgery, urolithiasis and instrumentation. There are various treatment options for ureteric stricture, including laparoscopic ureteric reimplantation. A 56-year-old female with a history of chronic left pelviureteric junction obstruction presented with urosepsis secondary to right-sided urolithiasis. The patient had a left nephrectomy and developed right-sided ureteric stricture following repeated ureteroscopy to manage her stone disease. The treatment with ureteric stenting was unsuccessful. Here we present a case on the feasibility of laparoscopic reimplantation for ureteric stricture in a solitary kidney to preserve renal function and avoid further ureteroscopy or nephrostomies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/1c/cnd-0005-0039.PMC4360724.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4968491", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aims of this study were twofold. The first was to compare the functional capacity and pain of patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA), with or without pes anserine tendino-bursitis (PATB). The second is to compare the efficacy of two treatment methods (physical therapy and corticosteroid injection) for patients with PATB. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty patient with KOA and PATB (Group 1) and 57 patients with KOA but without PATB (Group 2) were enrolled in the study. The patients’ visual analog scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) scores and three-meter timed-up and go scores were measured. The PATB group was randomly divided into two groups (Group A and B). Physical therapy (PT) modalities were applied to the first group (Group A), and the second group (Group B) received corticosteroid injections to the pes anserine area. Eight weeks later, patients’ parameters were measured again. [Results] Initial WOMAC scores and timed up-and-go times were significantly higher in Group 1 than in Group 2. Both treatments resulted in significant improvements in all measured parameters, but no significant difference was detected between Group A and B. [Conclusion] Patients with PATB tend to have more severe pain, more altered functionality, and greater disability than those with KOA but without PATB. Both corticosteroid injection and PT are effective methods of treatment for PATB. Injection therapy can be considered an effective, inexpensive and fast therapeutic method.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/12/jpts-28-1993.PMC4968491.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3798238", "abstract": "Background The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the biocompatibility of a novel multipurpose solution (MPS) with a dual disinfectant system containing polyaminopropyl biguanide and polyquaternium-1 (Biotrue®) by analysis of biomicroscopy signs and adverse events in six large clinical trials. Methods Data from six consecutive, prospective clinical trials conducted from February 2008 to March 2010 were combined for meta-analysis. Subjects used the new MPS daily for periods of 2 weeks to 6 months. Slit-lamp signs were graded at each follow-up visit using an ordinal scale (0, one; 1, trace; 2, mild; 3, moderate; 4, severe). Analysis for biocompatibility included tracking of greater than grade 2 slit-lamp findings and number of adverse events. Results A total of 1,567 subjects (3,134 eyes) and 81 clinical investigators participated in the six studies, with 1,499 subjects completing the studies. Based on subject days in the studies, there were 72,904 exposures to the MPS and 7,212 biomicroscopy examinations. The completion rate for the studies was 96.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/a7/opth-7-2051.PMC3798238.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3478097", "abstract": "The grasses in Thailand were analyzed for the potentiality as the alternative energy crops for cellulosic ethanol production by biological process. The average percentage composition of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin in the samples of 18 types of grasses from various provinces was determined as 31.85–38.51, 31.13–42.61, and 3.10–5.64, respectively. The samples were initially pretreated with alkaline peroxide followed by enzymatic hydrolysis to investigate the enzymatic saccharification. The total reducing sugars in most grasses ranging from 500–600 mg/g grasses (70–80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/21/7c/PMC3478097.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3101508", "abstract": "Adenosine suppresses immune responses through the A2A receptor (A2AR). This study investigated the interleukin 10 (IL-10) genetic profile and the expression of A2AR in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer disease (AD), and age-matched controls to verify, if they may help distinguish different forms of cognitive decline. We analyzed the IL-10 genotype and  the expression of A2AR in 41 subjects with AD, 10 with amnestic MCI (a-MCI), 49 with multiple cognitive domain MCI (mcd-MCI), and 46 controls. There was a significant linear increase in A2AR mRNA levels and A2AR density from mcd-MCI to a-MCI, with intermediate levels being found in AD. The IL-10 AA genotype frequency was  67", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/bb/PMC3101508.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4662791", "abstract": "Background: Bovine ephemeral fever (BEFV) is an arthropod-borne disease of cattle and water buffaloes. BEFV occurs seasonally in tropical, subtropical and temperate regions of Africa, Asia and Australia. It has been known for the past decades in Iran based on clinical signs but lack of an accurate diagnosis has made the real feature of disease obscured. This is the first scientific report on isolation and identification of the agent in which molecular diagnosis of BEFV was also set up with high sensitivity and specificity. Methods: The viral agent was successfully isolated through serial passages in brain of suckling mice and cell culture. In addition, the circulating virus during the autumn 2012 in Iran was molecularly characterized based on partial G gene. Results: Alignment of 3 virus sequences from different parts of Iran revealed that they are identical suggesting that the circulating viruses were most likely the same in this period. Phylogenetic analysis of the Iranian sequences with 17 sequences in the GenBank from the world showed that it is identical to the virus circulated in Turkey during the same period suggesting that the virus was circulated in a large geographic region. Conclusion: These results offer primary information about BEFV in Iran. To better understanding the epidemiology of the virus, further studies based on seroepidemiology, molecular epidemiology, entomology and meteorology together with finding the model of animal transportation in the region are necessary.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e2/e0/PMC4662791.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3015714", "abstract": "Management of large calculi in ectopic pelvic kidneys poses a challenge to the urologist. Risk of injury to surrounding abdominal viscera and vasculature makes open surgery as well as percutaneous nephrostolithotomy in an ectopic kidney a challenging procedure. Laparoscopic management avoids open surgery and associated morbidity and offers added safety. We report the management of symptomatic stones in a pelvic ectopic kidney lying anterior to the L5 vertebra and sacrum by transmesocolic laparoscopic pyelolithotomy in an 11-year-old child. Complete stone clearance was achieved with no complications and an uneventful postoperative recovery. The patient was discharged 72 hours after the surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/8b/jsls-11-2-258.PMC3015714.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4211053", "abstract": "PURPOSE The porcelain fused to gold has been widely used as a restoration both with the natural esthetics of the porcelain and durability and marginal fit of metal casting. However, recently, due to the continuous rise in the price of gold, an interest towards materials to replace gold alloy is getting higher. This study compared the bond strength of porcelain to millingable palladium-silver (Pd-Ag) alloy, with that of 3 conventionally used metal-ceramic alloys. MATERIALS AND METHODS Four types of metal-ceramic alloys, castable nonprecious nickel-chrome alloy, castable precious metal alloys containing 83", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/d0/jap-6-372.PMC4211053.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4155894", "abstract": "A 51-year-old male who had undergone phacoemulsification in his left eye 11 months prior presented with complaint of sudden onset of blurred vision in the same eye. Review of his clinical course, slit-lamp exam, pachymetry, and specular endothelial microscopy led to the diagnosis of acute hydrops caused by Descemet’s membrane dehiscence at the site of the incision. He was initially managed with medical treatment and observation. In the subsequent months of follow-up, the corneal edema and the patient’s visual acuity did not improve. Intracameral gas injection was performed 7 months after presentation, but because of persistent corneal edema and nonattached Descemet’s membrane, penetrating keratoplasty was performed. Histopathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis. The patient has had a clear corneal graft since then. Although Descemet’s membrane detachment is a rather common complication after intraocular surgery, its unusually delayed presentation can also occur, and should not be confused with pseudophakic bullous keratopathy. Many mechanisms have been studied for the development of early tears and detachments after cataract surgery, but little is known about late presentations. The authors explore possible causes, and highlight the importance of instructing patients to avoid eye rubbing and any other type of trauma to the cornea after intraocular surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/56/f8/opth-8-1629.PMC4155894.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3368188", "abstract": " Background. Gastrointestinal (GI) neuroendocrine tumor (NET) incidence has been increasing; however, GI NET within the national Veterans Affairs (VA) health system has not been described. Methods. We used the VA Central Cancer Registry to identify the cohort of patients diagnosed with GI NET in 1995–2009. Cox regression models were constructed to explore factors associated with survival. Results. We included 1793 patients with NET of the stomach (9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/35/73/PMC3368188.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1693766", "abstract": "The delineation of the target volume for irradiation is a critical step in the radiotherapy process. Delivery of radiotherapy occurs over a fractionated course of many treatments. Variations in the position of the target volume may occur on a daily basis during treatment and so the procedure for defining the target volume on a single initial ‘snapshot’ computed tomography scan has been re-evaluated. Newer technologies of image-guided radiotherapy allow the development of on-line daily definition of the target volume prior to radiotherapy delivery. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6d/68/PMC1693766.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3428644", "abstract": "Objective Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) react explosively and inappropriately to emotional stimuli. It could be hypothesized that these children have some impairment in attending to emotional cues. Based on this hypothesis, we conducted this study to evaluate visual directions of children with ADHD towards paired emotional scenes. Method Thirty boys between the ages of 6 and 11 years diagnosed with ADHD were compared with 30 age-matched normal boys. All participants were presented paired emotional and neutral scenes in the four following categories: pleasant-neutral; pleasant-unpleasant; unpleasant-neutral; and neutral – neutral. Meanwhile, their visual orientations towards these pictures were evaluated using the eye tracking system. The number and duration of first fixation and duration of first gaze were compared between the two groups using the MANOVA analysis. The performance of each group in different categories was also analyzed using the Friedman test. Results With regards to duration of first gaze, which is the time taken to fixate on a picture before moving to another picture, ADHD children spent less time on pleasant pictures compared to normal group, while they were looking at pleasant – neutral and unpleasant – pleasant pairs. The duration of first gaze on unpleasant pictures was higher while children with ADHD were looking at unpleasant – neutral pairs (P<0.01). Conclusion Based on the findings of this study it could be concluded that children with ADHD attend to unpleasant conditions more than normal children which leads to their emotional reactivity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/5e/IJPS-7-93.PMC3428644.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2840572", "abstract": "Purpose: To review recent advances in the understanding of Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) pathogenesis as well as discuss current and future medical management strategies. Design: Interpretive essay. Methods: Literature review and interpretation. Results: Medical treatment of GO has slowly evolved during the past few decades and has been hampered by a poor understanding of the disease at a cellular and molecular level. Current treatment recommendations and guidelines therefore focus on nonspecific immuno-suppression. Newer classes of treatment agents hold promise to more selectively target underlying cellular and molecular alterations in GO. Conclusion: Cooperation between individual patients, physicians and between differing medical centers, together with a refined understanding of the pathogenesis of GO, will lead to newer more-effective treatments for the disease and improve patient quality of life.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4a/d7/PMC2840572.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4547413", "abstract": "Molecular identification of Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 19F is routinely performed by PCR targeting the wzy gene of the capsular biosynthetic locus. However, 19F isolates with genetic similarity to 19A have been reported in the United States and Brazil. We screened 78 pneumococcal carriage isolates and found six 19F wzy variants that originated from children in Papua New Guinea and Fiji. Isolates were characterized using multilocus sequence typing and opsonophagocytic assays. The 19F wzy variants displayed similar susceptibility to anti-19F IgG antibodies compared to standard 19F isolates. Our findings indicate that these 19F variants may be more common than previously believed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ce/0e/main.PMC4547413.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4020202", "abstract": "ADAMTS-12 is a member of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) family of proteases, which were known to play important roles in various biological and pathological processes, such as development, angiogenesis, inflammation, cancer, arthritis, and atherosclerosis. In this review, we briefly summarize the structural organization of ADAMTS-12; concentrate on the emerging role of ADAMTS-12 in several pathophysiological conditions, including intervertebral disc degeneration, tumorigenesis and angioinhibitory effects, pediatric stroke, gonad differentiation, trophoblast invasion, and genetic linkage to schizophrenia and asthma, with special focus on its role in arthritis and inflammation; and end with the perspective research of ADAMTS-12 and its potential as a promising diagnostic and therapeutic target in various kinds of diseases and conditions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/93/4b/PMC4020202.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5451283", "abstract": " Background and study aims  Lymphocytic esophagitis (LyE) is a form of chronic esophagitis characterized by edema and lymphocytic infiltration of the epithelial peripapillary fields, without eosinophils. Its significance is unclear, as it was previously thought to have little clinical impact. More recent literature, however, describes a paradigm shift suggesting a distinct entity. We report on 3 patients with dysphagia who were found to have esophageal rings on endoscopy. Histology was consistent with LyE. Additional features reported in this cohort included an esophageal web, esophageal pseudodiverticula and esophageal erythema. We also report a current literature review of the topic. The literature review reported here includes another 37 patients with LyE and rings, for a total of 40 patients. Patients with LyE may present with esophageal rings and other findings. LyE should be considered in the differential diagnosis of esophageal rings. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c7/b5/PMC5451283.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4688320", "abstract": "We report a case of a 31-year-old woman with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in the pineal region with associated leptomeningeal dissemination and lumbar metastasis. The patient presented with severe headache and vomiting. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed a heterogeneously enhanced tumor in the pineal region with obstructive hydrocephalus. After an urgent ventricular-peritoneal shunt, she was treated by subtotal resection and chemotherapy concomitant with radiotherapy. Two months after surgery, MRI showed no changes in the residual tumor but leptomeningeal dissemination surrounding the brainstem. One month later, she exhibited severe lumbago and bilateral leg pain. Thoracico-lumbar MRI showed drop like metastasis in the lumbar region. Finally she died five months after the initial diagnosis. Neurosurgeons should pay attention to GBM in the pineal region, not only as an important differential diagnosis among the pineal tumors, but due to the aggressive features of leptomeningeal dissemination and spinal metastasis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9c/22/jkns-58-479.PMC4688320.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3218987", "abstract": "The rapid institution of therapeutic hypothermia after cardiac arrest has become an accepted practice. In the previous issue of Critical Care, Haugk and colleagues present a retrospective analysis of 13 years of experience with therapeutic hypothermia at their center that suggests an association between rate of cooling and less favorable neurological outcomes. The association most likely reflects easier cooling in patients more severely brain injured by their initial cardiac arrest, and should not lead clinicians to abandon or slow their efforts to achieve post-resuscitative cooling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ab/78/PMC3218987.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3361283", "abstract": "The genus Capsicum provides antioxidant compounds, such as phenolics and carotenoids, into the diet. In Mexico, there is a wide diversity of species and varieties of chilli peppers, a fruit which has local cultural and gastronomic importance. In the present study, the relationship of the carotenoid and phenolic profiles with the RAPD fingerprint of three different commercial cultivars of chilli peppers of seven regions of Mexico was investigated. Through RAPD, the species of chilli were differentiated by means of different primers (OPE-18, MFG-17, MFG-18, C51, and C52). The genetic distance found with OPE 18 was in the order of 2.6. The observed differences were maintained when the chromatographic profile of carotenoids, and the molecular markers were analyzed, which suggest a close relationship between carotenoids and the genetic profile. While the chromatographic profile of phenols and the molecular markers were unable to differentiate between genotypes of chilli peppers. In addition, by using infrared spectroscopy and statistical PCA, differences explained by geographic origin were found. Thus, this method could be an alternative for identification of chilli species with respect to their geographic origin.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/64/38/PMC3361283.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4371234", "abstract": "Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a potentially fatal adverse event with significant medical and economic impact. Many drugs, especially anti-infective, neurologic or pain-modifying substances, act as hepatotoxins. With cardiovascular toxicity, liver toxicity is one of the two leading causes for drug withdrawal from the market. The liver can be affected directly, in a predictable and dose-dependent manner, or idiosyncratically, independent of the dose and therefore unpredictable. Currently DILI is a diagnosis of exclusion that physicians have to bear in mind in patients with an unexplained increase of liver enzymes. The type of injury is categorized into hepatocellular, cholestatic, or mixed by the respective enzyme pattern of injury. Symptoms of affected patients can mimic any other liver disease. Therefore, new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for early liver injury are currently being evaluated in multi-centre clinical trials that are conducted by international consortia and other initiatives. Pharmacogenetic testing, next-generation sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics and mechanistic markers can help to preselect susceptible patient populations and tailor drug therapy to individual patients. Proposed DILI indicators that are under investigation include microRNAs, cytokeratin-18 (CK18), high mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB-1), and several other biomarkers. These developments can change clinical practice, and improve patients' safety and management. However, they have not been translated into clinical practice or approved for routine use yet. Management of DILI usually consists of initial withdrawal of the suspected drug and—if applicable—administration of specific antidotes, such as N-acetylcysteine. However, the overall management of DILI could change in the near future with the advent of novel diagnostic and prognostic DILI markers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/70/medrep-07-34.PMC4371234.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3886074", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Background T-cell large granular lymphocytic (T-LGL) leukemia is a rare, chronic, often indolent lymphoproliferative disorder of mature T cells (CD3+). Severe neutropenia and other cytopenias are common features in patients with T-LGL leukemia and may cause infections, thus representing a major cause of morbidity in this disease. Immunosuppressive therapy with low-dose regimes of methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, corticosteroids or cyclosporine A is the treatment of choice. Amongst the variety of T-LGL leukemia complications, oral manifestations such as ulcers have been rarely reported. The purpose of this paper is to report a case of T-cell large granular lymphocyte leukemia with oral manifestations and to discuss their pathogenesis and management. Methods In the present case, a 65 year old female with a two-month history of diagnosed T-LGL leukemia presented with oral lesions, including ulcerations on the ventral tongue and soft palate as well as swollen, erythematous and ulcerated gingiva. The patient was under treatment with methotrexate, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and erythropoietin. Results Considering patients' medical history and clinical appearance of the lesions, a clinical diagnosis of a neutropenic ulcer of the tongue was established. The oral lesions resolved after treatment with antibiotics, topical steroids and antiseptics combined with improvement of the hematological condition. The pertinent literature related to T-LGL leukemia ethiopathology, diagnostics and treatment was discussed. Conclusions Although rare, T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia should be included in the list of lymphoproliferative disorders, which may present with oral manifestations as a result of the disease and its treatment complications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/ee/jomr-02-e4.PMC3886074.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3658853", "abstract": " Background. Various sources of mammalian milk have been tried in CMA.  Objectives. To determine whether camel milk is safer than goat milk in CMA.  Methods. Prospective study conducted at Hamad Medical Corporation between April 2007 and April 2010, on children with CMA. Each child had medical examination, CBC, total IgE, cow milk-specific IgE and SPT. CMA children were tested against fresh camel and goat milks.  Results. Of 38 children (median age 21.5 months), 21 (55.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ce/a6/PMC3658853.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3753742", "abstract": "Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is the leading cause of blindness in working age Americans. We demonstrated that diabetes disturbs the homeostasis of nerve growth factor (NGF) resulting in accumulation of its precursor proNGF. Increases in proNGF were positively correlated with progression of diabetic retinopathy, having the highest level in ocular fluids from PDR patients compared to nondiabetic patients. Here, we attempted to evaluate the contribution and the possible mechanism of proNGF to PDR. The angiogenic response of aqueous humor samples from PDR patients was examined in human retinal endothelial cells in the presence or absence of anti-proNGF antibody. Additional cultures were treated with mutant-proNGF in the presence of specific pharmacological inhibitors of TrkA and p75NTR receptors. PDR-aqueous humor samples exerted significant angiogenic response including cell proliferation, migration, and alignment into tube-like structures. These effects were significantly reduced by anti-proNGF antibody but not by IgG. Treatment of retinal endothelial cells with mutant-proNGF activated phosphorylation of TrkA and p38MAPK; however, it did not alter p75NTR expression. Inhibition of TrkA but not p75NTR significantly reduced mutant-proNGF-induced cell proliferation, cell migration, and tube formation. Taken together, these results provide evidence that proNGF can contribute to PDR at least in part via activation of TrkA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b7/61/PMC3753742.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3151505", "abstract": "Homocysteine (Hcy) has been recognized for the past five decades as a risk factor for atherosclerosis. However, the role of Hcy in the pathological changes associated with atherosclerosis as well as the pathological mechanisms triggered by Hcy accumulation is poorly understood. Due to the reversal of the physiological direction of the reaction catalyzed by S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase Hcy accumulation leads to the synthesis of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine (AdoHcy). AdoHcy is a strong product inhibitor of S-adenosyl-L-methionine (AdoMet)-dependent methyltransferases, and to date more than 50 AdoMet-dependent methyltransferases that methylate a broad spectrum of cellular compounds including nucleic acids, proteins and lipids have been identified. Phospholipid methylation is the major consumer of AdoMet, both in mammals and in yeast. AdoHcy accumulation induced either by Hcy supplementation or due to S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase deficiency results in inhibition of phospholipid methylation in yeast. Moreover, yeast cells accumulating AdoHcy also massively accumulate triacylglycerols (TAG). Similarly, Hcy supplementation was shown to lead to increased TAG and sterol synthesis as well as to the induction of the unfolded protein response (UPR) in mammalian cells. In this review a model of deregulation of lipid metabolism in response to accumulation of AdoHcy in Hcy-associated pathology is proposed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/69/88/PMC3151505.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2570800", "abstract": "This article deals with registration and fusion of multimodal opththalmologic images obtained by means of a laser scanning device (Heidelberg retina angiograph). The registration framework has been designed and tested for combination of autofluorescent and infrared images. This process is a necessary step for consecutive pixel level fusion and analysis utilizing information from both modalities. Two fusion methods are presented and compared.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/17/PMC2570800.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4025162", "abstract": "Purpose The presented case raises questions regarding the favorable scheduling of planned postoperative care and the ideal observation interval to decide for reoperations in macular hole surgery. Furthermore a discussion about the use of short- and long-acting gas tamponades in macular hole surgery is encouraged. Methods We present an interventional case report and a short review of the pertinent literature. Results We report a case of spontaneous delayed macular hole closure after vitreoretinal surgery had been performed initially without the expected success. A 73-year-old male Caucasian patient presented at our clinic with a stage 2 macular hole in his left eye. He underwent 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane peeling with a 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/30/cop-0005-0121.PMC4025162.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3885851", "abstract": " [Purpose] This study implement ankle joint dorsiflexion training for ankle muscle the weakness that impairs stroke patients’ gait performance, to examine the effect of the training on stroke patients’ plantar pressure and gait ability. [Subjects and Methods] In this study, 36 stroke patients diagnosed with stroke due to cerebral infarction or cerebral hemorrhage performed the training. Static muscle stretching was performed four times a week for 20 minutes at a time for 6 weeks by the training group. Ankle dorsiflexor training was performed four times a week, two sets per time in the case of females and three sets per time in the case of males for 6 weeks, by another group. Center of pressure sway amplitude was measured using the F-scan system during gait. All subjects were assessed with the same measurements at a pre-study examination and reassessed at eight weeks. Data were analyzed statistically using the paired t-test and one-way ANOVA. [Results] Among the between ankle dorsiflexor training group, static muscle stretching group, and control group, the difference before and after the training were proven to be statistically significant. [Conclusion] Compared to other training groups, the ankle muscle strength training group showed statistically significant increases of forward thrust at stroke patients’ toe-off which positively affected stroke patients’ ability to perform gait.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4c/4d/jpts-25-1613.PMC3885851.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3108253", "abstract": "When compared to the available information for patients on dialysis (CKD stage 5D), data on the epidemiology and appropriate treatment of calcium and phosphate metabolism in the predialysis stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are quite limited. Perceptible derangements of calcium and phosphate levels start to become apparent when GFR falls below 30 mL/min in some, but not all, patients. However, hyperphosphatemia may be a significant morbidity and mortality risk predictor in predialysis CKD stages. The RIND study, evaluating progression of coronary artery calcification in incident hemodialysis patients, indirectly demonstrated that vascular calcification processes start to manifest in CKD patients prior to the dialysis stage, which may be closely linked to early and invisible derangements in calcium and phosphate homeostasis. Novel insights into the pathophysiology of calcium and phosphate handling such as the discovery of FGF23 and other phosphatonins suggest that a more complex assessment of phosphate balance is warranted, possibly including measurements of fractional phosphate excretion and phosphatonin levels in order to appropriately evaluate disordered metabolism in earlier stages of kidney disease. As a consequence, early and preventive treatment approaches may have to be developed for patients in CKD stages 3-5 to halt progression of CKD-MBD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3c/bb/PMC3108253.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3262387", "abstract": "This case report describes how eculizumab reversed neurologic impairment and improved renal damage in severe atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. A 50-year-old female, after presenting with diarrhea and abdominal pain, developed pancolitis, acute renal failure, and thrombocytopenia. The patient underwent total abdominal colectomy. Pathology confirmed ischemic colitis with scattered mesenteric microthrombi. Due to mental and respiratory decline, she remained intubated. Continuous venovenous hemodialysis was initiated. Renal failure, neurologic changes, hemolysis, thrombotic microangiopathy, and low complement levels all suggested atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Eculizumab 900 mg was administered intravenously on hospital day 6 and continued weekly for four doses followed by maintenance therapy. She recovered neurologically and renally after the third dose, and hematologically by the sixth dose. Her recovery has been sustained on long-term eculizumab treatment. In severe atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, eculizumab safely reverses neurologic impairment and eliminates the need for dialysis. The optimal duration of treatment with eculizumab remains to be determined.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/1a/PMC3262387.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC153527", "abstract": "Statins inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl (HMG-CoA) reductase, the rate limiting step in cholesterol synthesis. They are, therefore, used clinically to lower cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis. Statins have beneficial effects on multiple organ systems. Some of these effects are found in the absence of significant changes in cholesterol levels. Polyunsaturated fatty acids also inhibit HMG-CoA reductase and have many of the same beneficial effects of statins. Four statins (mevastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin and atorvastatin) have been tested in rat liver cells for their effect on arachidonic acid (AA) release and prostaglandin I2 production induced in the presence of lactacystin and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. Each statin stimulated release of AA and induced prostaglandin I2 production. Mevalonate, the product of HMG-CoA reductase, did not reduce the stimulation observed in the presence of simvastatin indicating that HMG-CoA reductase activity is not involved. In view of the multiple biologic properties of AA, the AA released as a result of the action of the statins may play a role in some of the pharmacological effects attributed to these drugs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/71/PMC153527.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4327659", "abstract": "Objective: The aim of this study was to correlate the presence of Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonadaceae, Moraxellaceae and Xanthomonadaceae on the posterior dorsum of the human tongue with the presence of tongue coating, gender, age, smoking habit and denture use. Material and Methods: Bacteria were isolated from the posterior tongue dorsum of 100 individuals in MacConkey agar medium and were identified by the API 20E system (Biolab-Mérieux). Results: 43", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2a/88/1678-7757-jaos-17-05-0375.PMC4327659.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4395676", "abstract": "[Purpose] To investigate the changes in body balance under ametropic conditions induced by spherical lenses in an upright position. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty subjects (10 males, 10 females) of average age 23.4±2.70 years participated and they were fully corrected by subjective refraction. To induce ametropic conditions (binocular myopia and hyperopia), lenses of ±0.50 D, ±1.00 D, ±1.50 D, ±2.00 D, ±3.00 D, ±4.00 D and ±5.00 D were used. General stability (ST), fall risk index (FI), and sway path (SP) were analyzed through changes in synchronization of left/right and toe/heel, as measured by the biofeedback system, TETRAX. Measurement was performed for 32 seconds for each condition. [Results] ST increased significantly from +0.50 D-induced myopia and from −1.00 D-induced hyperopia as compared with corrected emmetropia. FI increased significantly from +4.00 D-induced myopia and from −1.50 D-induced hyperopia as compared with corrected emmetropia. In SP, which means a change of body balance, toe/heel was significantly greater than left/right in all ametropic conditions. SP of right/left synchronization was not affected by the side of the dominant eye. [Conclusion] An uncorrected hyperope may cause subjects to have a higher risk of falling than an uncorrected myope. Therefore, clinical specialists should consider the refractive condition, especially hyperopia, when analyzing body balance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/28/jpts-27-615.PMC4395676.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3505665", "abstract": "We previously reported that radon inhalation activates antioxidative functions in the liver and inhibits carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatopathy in mice. In addition, it has been reported that reactive oxygen species contribute to alcohol-induced hepatopathy. In this study, we examined the inhibitory effects of radon inhalation on acute alcohol-induced hepatopathy in mice. C57BL/6J mice were subjected to intraperitoneal injection of 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/04/PMC3505665.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5424665", "abstract": "Background Dermoscopy devices can overcome the refractive properties of stratum corneum by interface medium or cross polarization such that the lesion can be easily seen. Aim To examine the dermoscopic feature in alopecia areata and correlate the severity of disease with dermoscopic features. Materials and methods Retrospective analysis of 72 patients suffering from alopecia areata (AA), irrespective of age and sex, who visited the dermatology outpatient department of a tertiary care center in Eastern India was carried out. The most recently developed cases of AA were examined dermoscopically. Variables included yellow dots (YDs), black dots (BDs), broken hair (BH), short vellus hair (SVH), and exclamation mark hair (EMH) on the basis of available literature and expertise. Results Yellow dots was the most common finding seen in 57 cases (79.16", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/45/PMC5424665.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2730268", "abstract": "We report the genetic characterization of the M RNA segment of Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV). Two CCHFV strains isolated in Xinjiang Province, a region endemic for CCHF in northwestern China, were studied. These strains, designated BA66019 and BA8402, were isolated in 1965 and 1984 from a CCHF patient and Hyalomma ticks, respectively. Viral RNA was extracted from suckling mouse brains infected with these two strains, amplified, and sequenced. The full-length M RNA, consisting of 5.3 kb, was determined for both strains. The coding nucleotide sequences of the two strains differed from each other by 17.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4c/67/PMC2730268.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5402994", "abstract": "Purpose The study aimed to assess the combined effects of parecoxib with three different doses of remifentanil and its effect on the stress and cough responses following tracheal extubation under general anesthesia. Methods A total of 120 patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) scores of I or II, undergoing selective thyroidectomy with total intravenous anesthesia (propofol-remifentanil) and tracheal intubation, were randomly allocated to be treated with an intravenous injection of parecoxib and a continuous infusion of remifentanil at 0.1 μg/kg/min (R1), 0.2 μg/kg/min (R2), 0.3 μg/kg/min (R3), or an isotonic saline injection (the control group). Hemodynamic vital signs, emergence time, extubation time, sedation-agitation scale (SAS) score, pain visual analog scale (VAS) score, occurrence of coughing, and side effects were recorded before surgery and during the peri-extubation period. The vital signs included blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (R), and peripheral arterial oxygen saturation (SPO2). Results BP, HR, the occurrence rate of coughing, and extubation awareness decreased with the dose of remifentanil, and the differences among the groups were significant (P < 0.05). Emergence and extubation time increased with the dose of remifentanil, and the differences among the groups were significant (P < 0.05). The occurrence rates of respiratory depression and bradycardia in group R3 were significantly higher than those in other groups (P < 0.05). SAS and VAS were lowest in group R3, and the differences among the groups were significant (P < 0.05). BP, HR, SAS, and VAS increased with time in the remifentanil groups. Conclusion The combined use of parecoxib and a moderate dose of remifentanil can effectively suppress the stress and coughing responses during the peri-extubation period. The appropriate quantity of remifentanil was found to be 0.2 μg/kg/min, as this dosage caused no side effects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/22/03/jpr-10-933.PMC5402994.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3259550", "abstract": "We report a patient of left atrial huge myxoma presenting with severe pulmonary hypertension in adolescents. A patient was a 14-year-old boy presented with sudden onset dyspnea. Transthoracic echocardiographic study revealed the presence of a nodular, 4.34 × 8.11 cm sized, mobile, hyperechoic mass in the left atrium and severe pulmonary hypertension with tricuspid insufficiency. After surgical therapy, tricuspid regurgitation and pulmonary hypertension was decreased and the patient was stabilized and had an uneventful clinical course.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f4/90/jcu-19-221.PMC3259550.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2634650", "abstract": "Pyrosequencing of cDNA from brains of parrots with proventricular dilatation disease (PDD), an unexplained fatal inflammatory central, autonomic, and peripheral nervous system disease, showed 2 strains of a novel Borna virus. Real-time PCR confirmed virus presence in brain, proventriculus, and adrenal gland of 3 birds with PDD but not in 4 unaffected birds.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/46/a7/PMC2634650.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4302396", "abstract": "Background: Perovskia abrotanoides Karel. is a medicinal plant used in Iranian folk medicine as a pain killer. Forty-one components have been identified in P. abrotanoides samples collected from Baluchistan Province, and 29 components have been recognized in samples collected from Khorasan Province. The leaves of P. abrotanoides have glandular trichomes (capitates and peltate) on both sides of the lamina. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the variation of oil constituents of the plant and illustrate the glandular trichomes types and then show the influence of environment on oil constituents and glandular trichomes. Materials and Methods: The essential oil of the plant was obtained using hydrodistillation and the analysis of oils carried out using GC-MS. The anatomical analysis of leaves was done by fixing, coloring, and photoing the sections. Results: Glandular trichomes composed of capitates and peltate trichomes. The essential oil composition differs. Viridiflora and neryl acetate were not identified in yellow glandular trichomes. Conclusions: It seems that there is no relation between anatomical characteristics of the plant leaves and its essential oil composition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/59/jjnpp-09-04-16432.PMC4302396.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3716429", "abstract": "The liquid-liquid equilibrium for the ternary system formed by n-octane and aromatic (alkylbenzenes) and heteroaromatic compounds (nitrogen and sulfur containing heterocyles) and 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium ionic liquids (ILs) associated with various anions has been investigated. The selectivity on the extraction of a specific aromatic compound is influenced by anion volume, hydrogen bond strength between the anion and the imidazolium cation and the length of the 1-methyl-3-alkylimidazolium alkyl side chain. The interaction of alkylbenzenes and sulfur heterocyles with the IL is preferentially through CH-π hydrogen bonds and the quantity of these aromatics in the IL phase decreases with the increase of the steric hindrance imposed by the substituents on the aromatic nucleus. In the case of nitrogen heterocycles the interaction occurs preferentially through N(heteroaromatic)-H(imidazolium) hydrogen bonds and the extraction process is largely controlled by the nitrogen heterocycle pKa. Competitive extraction experiments suggest that benzene, pyridine and dibenzothiophene do not compete for the same hydrogen bond sites of the IL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/19/9d/PMC3716429.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3140779", "abstract": " Objective. To evaluate spectral heart rate (HR) variation using short-term ECG recordings at rest and during the tilt table test. Methods. The values of spectral components of total power (TP), high-frequency power (HF), low-frequency power (LF) and LF: HF ratio were measured at rest and during the head-up tilt in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and their control subjects. Results. Compared to the control subjects, patients with TLE had lower HF (P < 0.05) and LF : HF ratio (P < 0.05) at rest and lower TP (P < 0.001), HF (P < 0.05), and LF (P < 0.05) during the head-up tilt. Upon changing from supine to standing position TP (P < 0.05) and LF (P < 0.05) were attenuated in patients with TLE compared to the control subjects. Conclusion. These results suggest that spectral analysis of HR variation from ECG recordings of short duration may add value to assessment of autonomic nervous system function using autonomic cardiac tests in patients with TLE.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/41/7c/PMC3140779.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3863680", "abstract": "A gossypiboma (also called textiloma or retained surgical sponge) of the neck is rarely reported compared to intraabdominal or intrathoracic gossypibomas and also can be misdiagnosed as metastatic lymph nodes. A patient was referred to our clinic for a supraclavicular neck mass 6 months after thyroidectomy and neck dissection for papillary thyroid carcinoma in another hospital. It was initially considered an isolated neck recurrence, but it was finally diagnosed as gossypiboma by a pathological examination of the surgically-excised specimen. Characteristic findings of computed tomography or positron emission tomography/computed tomography might be helpful to differentiate the gossypiboma from malignant neck mass or other inflammatory conditions. It is essential for clinicians to be aware of this disease entity in differential diagnosis of neck recurrence because a gossypiboma in the neck can be misinterpreted as a malignancy to induce unwarranted radical surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/06/88/ceo-6-269.PMC3863680.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3150146", "abstract": "Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic rheumatic disease with poor prognosis since therapeutic options are limited. Recent evidence from animal models suggests that B-cells may be actively involved in the fibrotic process. B-cells from tight skin mice, an animal model of scleroderma, display a “hyperresponsive” phenotype; treatment with rituximab (RTX) significantly attenuates skin fibrosis in this animal model. In humans, B-cell infiltration is a prominent finding in most lung biopsies obtained from patients with SSc-associated interstitial lung disease. Several open label studies have assessed the clinical efficacy of RTX in SSc. In most patients skin fibrosis improved; lung function either improved or remained stable. Definite conclusions regarding the clinical efficacy of RTX in SSc cannot be drawn but further exploration with a multicenter, randomized study is warranted.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/b1/PMC3150146.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4965544", "abstract": "Daclatasvir (DCV) and asunaprevir (ASV) are direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Combined therapy with DCV and ASV shows high efficacy and safety even in patients with cirrhosis. We encountered a patient exhibiting severe hyperbilirubinemia during combined therapy, which is an unreported side effect of DCV and ASV. A 78-year-old woman with cirrhosis developed hyperbilirubinemia >10 mg/dl without transaminitis 3 weeks after starting combined therapy. We suspected DAAs-induced liver disorder and discontinued treatment, which resulted in the improvement of hyperbilirubinemia. Caution is required in the use of DAAs for patients with advanced cirrhosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f3/e5/crg-0010-0352.PMC4965544.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3589216", "abstract": "Purpose To report the histopathologic features of corneal involvement in a patient with xeroderma pigmentosum (XP). Case Report A 19-year-old man with XP presented with bilateral corneal leukoma and decreased visual acuity predominatly in his right eye. Penetrating keratoplasty was performed in the right eye due to severe corneal opacity, vascularization and lipid deposition. The corneal button underwent histopathologic evaluation which disclosed chronic interstitial lipogranulomatous keratitis. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first report of corneal involvement in xeroderma pigmentosum from Iran describing the histopathologic features in this rare condition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/09/JOVR-3-66.PMC3589216.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5106561", "abstract": "Background: There are few research studies evaluating the significance of low back pain (LBP) in Iran, even though the majority of locally published surveys are written in the Persian language. In the present review study, we aimed at appraising published articles related to the burden of LBP and its divergence among different jobs. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in all accessible national and international electronic databases from 1948 to mid-2012. The international electronic databases were MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Sciences, Google Scholar, Scopus, CINAHL, and the Iranian equivalents were SID, IRANDOC, IranMedex, and Magiran. The main search terms were musculoskeletal disorders, musculoskeletal symptoms, low back pain, back pain, and Iran. All keywords were searched electronically by three Boolean operators. The inclusion criteria were age ≥10 years, study focus on LBP prevalence, inclusion of both genders, and no limitation to the study design. A dedicated STROBE questionnaire was developed as a critical appraisal tool and the quality of the identified literature was examined according to the 5-point Linker scale. Articles scoring ≥3 on the Linker scale were appraised. Each literature was screened by four reviewers independently and possible disagreements were streamlined in a joint review meeting. The extracted data were entered into a dedicated table using Microsoft Office Excel program. Data were analyzed for homogeneity using the STATA software (version 11). Results: Of the 51 articles that were included in the present review study, 35 articles reported 1-year LBP with Nordic questionnaire and 3 articles reported point prevalence of LBP. The calculated global prevalence of 1-year LBP in workers was 25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/61/IJMS-41-467.PMC5106561.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4488400", "abstract": "Astroviruses are the principal causative agents of gastroenteritis in humans and have been associated with diarrhea in other mammals as well as birds. However, astroviral infection of animals had been poorly studied. In the present study, 211 rectal swabs collected from cattle and water buffalo calves with mild to severe diarrhea were tested for bovine astrovirus (BAstV) by RT-PCR. Results: 92/211 (43.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/14/jvms-77-643.PMC4488400.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4293508", "abstract": "Painful periarticular calcification most commonly occurs within the rotator cuff of the shoulder and rarely around the elbow, hip, foot, and neck. As acute inflammatory reaction develops, severe pain, exquisite tenderness, local swelling, and limitation of motion with pain occur. In case of calcific tendinitis of the shoulder, it can be easily diagnosed according to the symptoms and with x-ray. However, in lesions of the hip, as it is a rare location and usually involves pain in the posterolateral aspect of the thigh, which can simulate radicular pain from a lumbar intervertebral disc, it could be difficult to diagnose. Hence, physicians usually focus on lumbar lesions; therefore, misdiagnosis is common and leads to a delayed management. Here, we report the case of a 30-year-old female patient with calcific tendinitis of the rectus femoris that was successfully managed with ultrasound-guided steroid injection. This study offers knowledge about the rectus femoris calcification.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/8d/kjpain-28-52.PMC4293508.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4862340", "abstract": "Purpose To identify inexpensive, noninvasive, portable, clinical assessment tools that can be used to assess functional performance measures that may put older patients at risk for falls such as balance, handgrip strength, and lumbopelvic control. Patients and methods Twenty fragility fracture patients and 21 healthy control subjects were evaluated using clinical assessment tools (Nintendo Wii Balance Board [WBB], a handheld dynamometer, and an application for the Apple iPod Touch, the Level Belt) that measure functional performance during activity of daily living tasks. The main outcome measurements were balance (WBB), handgrip strength (handheld dynamometer), and lumbopelvic control (iPod Touch Level Belt), which were compared between fragility fracture patients and healthy controls. Results Fragility fracture patients had lower scores on the vertical component of the WBB Torso Twist task (P=0.042) and greater medial–lateral lumbopelvic sway during a 40 m walk (P=0.026) when compared to healthy controls. Unexpectedly, the fracture patients had significantly higher scores on the left leg (P=0.020) and total components (P=0.010) of the WBB Single Leg Stand task as well as less faults during the left Single Leg Stand task (P=0.003). Conclusion The clinical assessment tools utilized in this study are relatively inexpensive and portable tools of performance measures capable of detecting differences in postural sway between fragility fracture patients and controls.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d3/d4/cia-11-563.PMC4862340.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3647585", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to compare skin autofluorescence caused by advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) with biochemical markers of endothelial dysfunction and soluble receptor for AGEs (sRAGE) in patients with diabetes. Skin autofluorescence (AF) assessed by AGE-Reader was evaluated with sRAGE and other biochemical parameters in 88 patients with diabetes (47 Type 1/T1DM/ and 41 Type 2/T2DM/) and 20 controls. Skin AF was significantly higher in T1DM and T2DM in comparison to controls (2.39 ± 0.54, 2.63 ± 0.73 versus 1.96 ± 0.33 AU; P < 0.0001). Positive correlation of AF with sRAGE was detected in T1DM and T2DM (r = 0.37, P < 0.02 and r = 0.60, P < 0.0001), but not in controls. Significantly higher AF values were found in patients with positive albuminuria as compared to those with normal albuminuria. Similarly, higher AF was detected in patients with endothelial dysfunction expressed by vWF, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1. Multiple regression analysis revealed independent association of skin AF with age, sRAGE, and albumin-creatinine ratio in patients with diabetes (R 2 = 0.38). Our study confirms that AF is elevated in patients with diabetes, especially with positive albuminuria and endothelial dysfunction. The strong and independent relationship between AF and sRAGE supports the idea that AF may reflect AGEs/RAGE interactions. The exact mechanism remains to be established. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ed/66/PMC3647585.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5039781", "abstract": "Background Childhood hypertension has been associated with target-organ damage in young adults. It is often asymptomatic in both children and adolescents; when persistent, and long-standing, it could be a significant risk factor for kidney damage and increased glomerular permeability. Objectives Burden of hypertension and its impact on glomerular permeability were prospectively determined in randomly recruited primary school children. Patients and Methods Blood pressure (BP) measurement was performed by the auscultation method, and abnormal glomerular permeability was assessed by dipstick testing of urine for persistent proteinuria and/or hematuria for ≥ three months in hypertensive children. Results Of 1,335 pupils aged 10.0 ± 2.4 (6.0 - 14.0) years, 33 (2.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d4/70/num-08-04-37568.PMC5039781.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4194998", "abstract": "This highlight describes the characteristics and inpatient utilization of under age 65 disabled California Medicare beneficiaries by dual eligible status (i.e., Medicaid State buy-in coverage or not). More disabled dually eligible beneficiaries are younger, non-White, and in fee-for-service (FFS) than non-dually eligible beneficiaries. Disabled dually eligible beneficiaries experienced consistently higher hospitalization rates and average length of stay (LOS) than non-dually eligible beneficiaries from 1996 to 2001. Inpatient days remain higher among dually eligible beneficiaries when stratified by the system of care, age, sex, or race. In addition, the hospitalization rate of disabled dually eligible beneficiaries was higher for most diagnoses, but how much higher varied by condition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/83/3e/PMC4194998.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3814101", "abstract": " Purpose. To investigate if there is a prognostic implication of the presence of cellular debris in the anterior vitreous in patients with Behçet's disease (BD) without any ocular symptoms. Methods. One hundred and twenty eyes of 60 patients with BD were included in the study. The eyes were divided into two groups according to the presence of cellular debris in the anterior vitreous. The first group included 54 eyes which were cellular debris (+) (group A), and the second group included 66 eyes which were cellular debris (−) (group B). Fluorescein angiography (FA) was performed to all patients following routine ocular examination. Patients were called for the six monthly control visits to investigate possible new ocular involvement during followup. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival curves. Results. Seven eyes (13", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/16/ae/PMC3814101.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5066413", "abstract": "Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding, the most common etiology of which is peptic ulcer disease, remains a persistent challenge despite a reduction in both its incidence and mortality. Both pharmacologic and endoscopic techniques have been developed to achieve hemostasis, with varying degrees of success. Among the pharmacologic therapies, proton pump inhibitors remain the mainstay of treatment, as they reduce the risk of rebleeding and requirement for recurrent endoscopic evaluation. Tranexamic acid, a derivative of the amino acid lysine, is an antifibrinolytic agent whose role requires further investigation before application. Endoscopically delivered pharmacotherapy, including Hemospray (Cook Medical), EndoClot (EndoClot Plus Inc.), and Ankaferd Blood Stopper (Ankaferd Health Products), in addition to standard epinephrine, show promise in this regard, although their mechanisms of action require further investigation. Non-pharmacologic endoscopic techniques use one of the following two methods to achieve hemostasis: ablation or mechanical tamponade, which may involve using endoscopic clips, cautery, argon plasma coagulation, over-the-scope clipping devices, radiofrequency ablation, and cryotherapy. This review aimed to highlight these novel and fundamental hemostatic strategies and the research supporting their efficacy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/49/ce-2016-110.PMC5066413.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3832979", "abstract": "Genetic factors are considered to play an important role in determining the susceptibility to the occurrence, clinical course, and functional outcome of an acute ischemic stroke (IS). Undercarboxylation of specific vitamin K-dependent proteins, due to genetic polymorphisms of VKORC1, can affect both vascular calcification and thrombogenicity. We sought to determine the association of VKORC1 −1639G > A polymorphism with IS incidence, age of onset, severity of disease, and functional outcome after an acute IS. VKORC1 −1639G > A polymorphism was determined in 145 consecutive patients with first ever IS and 145 age- and sex-matched control subjects of Greek Caucasian origin using PCR-RFLP. Stroke severity and functional outcome were assessed on admission and at one month after stroke, respectively. Frequency of VKORC1 −1639G > A genotypes did not differ between IS patients and controls (OR = 1.12, P = 0.51). Moreover, carriage of the A allele was not associated with age of stroke onset, severity of disease (Scandinavian stroke scale score 32.2 versus 32.9, resp., P = 0.96), or poor outcome at 1 month post-stroke (52.9 versus 64.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ff/d9/PMC3832979.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4766356", "abstract": "This paper evaluates neck circumference as a metabolic risk marker. Overweight/obese, nondiabetic Hispanics, 40–65 years old, who are free of major cardiovascular diseases, were recruited for the San Juan Overweight Adults Longitudinal Study (SOALS). Baseline exams were completed by 1,206 participants. Partial correlation coefficients (r) and logistic models adjusted for age, gender, smoking status, and physical activity were computed. Neck circumference was significantly correlated with waist circumference (r = 0.64), BMI (r = 0.66), and body fat ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9c/22/PMC4766356.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3196932", "abstract": "Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive demyelinating process considered as an autoimmune disease, although the causes of this pathology have not been yet fully established. Similarly to other neurodegenerations, MS is characterized by a series of biochemical changes affecting to different extent neuronal functions; great attention has been given to oxidative/nitrosative stress and to alterations in mitochondrial functions. According to previous data, MS patients show significant changes in the circulating concentrations of different metabolites, although it is still unclear whether uric acid undergoes to decrease, increase, or no change under this pathological condition. In this study, we report the serum metabolic profile in terms of purines, pyrimidines, creatinine, malondialdehyde, ascorbic acid, nitrite, and nitrate in a group of 170 MS patients. The results show increase in circulating uric acid and other oxypurines (hypoxanthine and xanthine), as well as in uridine and β-pseudouridine. The concomitant increase in circulating creatinine, malondialdehyde, nitrite, and nitrate, and decrease in ascorbic acid, demonstrates that MS induces alteration in energy metabolism and in oxidants/antioxidants balance that can be monitored in serum of MS patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/48/88/PMC3196932.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3921298", "abstract": "Esophagectomy can result in various postoperative nutrition-related complications that may impair the nutritional status of the patient. In our institution, we usually initiate 16-hour continuous jejunostomy feeding using an enteral feeding pump on postoperative day 2 as a routine protocol after esophagectomy. The target calorie intake was achieved in 6-7 days with this protocol, which is longer than that required with other recently reported feeding protocols. Accordingly, early jejunostomy feeding protocol, which starts on postoperative day 1 and continues for 24 hours was attempted. In the present report, we described 3 cases of early 24-hour continuous jejunostomy feeding after esophagectomy. The use of this new protocol reduced the duration required to achieve the target calorie intake as less than 5 days without any enteral feeding-related complications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/88/d6/cnr-3-69.PMC3921298.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4492544", "abstract": "Background Skin aging is a natural process that may be aggravated by environmental factors. Topical products are the conventional means to combat aging; however, the use of oral supplements is on the rise to assist in the management of aged skin. Objective The purpose of this study was to assess the effects and safety of an oral supplement containing (per tablet) marine protein (105 mg), vitamin C (27 mg), grape seed extract (13.75 mg), zinc (2 mg), and tomato extract (14.38 mg) in the improvement of skin aging in men. Methods This single-center, open-label, quasi-experimental clinical study enrolled 47 male subjects, aged 30–45 years, with phototypes I–IV on the Fitzpatrick scale. Subjects received two tablets of the oral supplement for 180 consecutive days. Each subject served as their own control. Clinical assessments were made by medical personnel and by the subjects, respectively. Objective assessments were carried out through pH measurements, sebumetry, corneometry, ultrasound scanning, skin biopsies, and photographic images. Results Forty-one subjects (87", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d7/40/ccid-8-319.PMC4492544.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4514653", "abstract": "In this work, the solubility dependence of radioactive baric samples under influence of microwave radiation (MWR) has been investigated at various concentrations of HCl after irradiation of BaO target at a flux of thermal neutrons. It is established that the use of MWR for dissolution of a sparingly-soluble barium oxide will accelerate a dissolution process at almost an order of magnitude in comparison with usual heating. Each time after separation of the 131Cs from radioactive barium solution analyses on radionuclide purity of the 131Cs product solutions were carried out.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a8/23/PMC4514653.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5418628", "abstract": "We study the influence of different surfactants on NaCl crystallization during evaporation of aqueous salt solutions. We found that at concentrations of sodium chloride close to saturation, only the cationic surfactant CTAB and the nonionic surfactant Tween 80 remain stable. For the nonionic surfactant, the high concentration of salt does not significantly change either the critical micellar concentration (CMC) or the surface tension at the CMC; for the cationic surfactant, the CMC is reduced by roughly 2 orders of magnitude upon adding the salt. The presence of both types of surfactants in the salt solution delays the crystallization of sodium chloride with evaporation. This, in turn, leads to high supersaturation which induces the rapid precipitation of a hopper crystal in the bulk. The crystallization inhibitor role of these surfactants is shown to be mainly due to the passivation of nucleation sites at both liquid/air and solid/liquid interfaces rather than a change in the evaporation rate which is found not to be affected by the presence of the surfactants. The adsorption of surfactants at the liquid/air interface prevents the crystallization at this location which is generally the place where the precipitation of sodium chloride is observed. Moreover, sum frequency generation spectroscopy measurements show that the surfactants are also present at the solid/liquid interface. The incorporation of the surfactants into the salt crystals is investigated using a novel, but simple, method based on surface tension measurements. Our results show that the nonionic surfactant Tween 80 is incorporated in the NaCl crystals but the cationic surfactant CTAB is not. Taken together, these results therefore allow us to establish the effect of the presence of surfactants on sodium chloride crystallization.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/8d/PMC5418628.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2887118", "abstract": "Goal-directed therapy (GDT) can be a vague term, meaning different things to different people and, depending on the clinical environment, sometimes even different things to the same person. It can refer to perioperative fluid management, clinicians driving oxygen delivery to supramaximal values, early treatment of sepsis in the emergency department, and even to restriction of perioperative crystalloids with the goal of maintaining preadmission body weight. Understandably, strong opinions about GDT vary; some clinicians consider it essential for perioperative care, others completely ineffective in critically ill patients. This commentary aims to further position the excellent review by Lees and colleagues in the context of the critical care and perioperative setting.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/aa/d0/PMC2887118.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3197186", "abstract": "Uncertainty exists as to whether similar or different mechanisms contribute to the pathogenesis of different subtypes of multiple sclerosis (MS). Detailed analysis of naive T cell homeostasis shows that patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and with primary progressive MS (PPMS) have early-onset thymic involution that causes reduced thymic output. The reduced thymic output leads to secondary peripheral homeostatic alterations in naïve CD4 T-cells, which closely mimic T-cell alterations observed in an experimental animal model of diabetes mellitus. Homeostatic T-cell receptor (TCR) signalling and proliferation of naïve T cells are induced by self-peptides. Consequently, the findings of increased TCR signalling of naïve CD4 T-cells, without increased proliferation, in PPMS, and the increased homeostatic proliferation of naïve CD4 T-cells in RRMS favour the development of autoimmunity. Thus, it seems highly likely that peripheral T-cell alterations secondary to a thymic abnormality contribute to the pathogenesis of both MS subtypes. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/51/PMC3197186.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3737735", "abstract": "The discovery of the Ten-Eleven-Translocation (TET) oxygenases that catalyze the hydroxylation of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) has triggered an avalanche of studies aiming to resolve the role of 5hmC in gene regulation if any. Hitherto, TET1 is reported to bind to CpG-island (CGI) and bivalent promoters in mouse embryonic stem cells, whereas binding at DNAseI hypersensitive sites (HS) had escaped previous analysis. Significant enrichment/accumulation of 5hmC but not 5mC can indeed be detected at bivalent promoters and at DNaseI-HS. Surprisingly, however, 5hmC is not detected or present at very low levels at CGI promoters notwithstanding the presence of TET1. Our meta-analysis of DNA methylation profiling points to potential issues with regard to the various methodologies that are part of the toolbox used to detect 5mC and 5hmC. Discrepancies between published studies and technical limitations prevent an unambiguous assignment of 5hmC as a ‘true' epigenetic mark, that is, read and interpreted by other factors and/or as a transiently accumulating intermediary product of the conversion of 5mC to unmodified cytosines.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/eb/0a/msb201195.PMC3737735.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2206497", "abstract": "Recent studies indicate that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a role in the pathogenesis of a number of disease states. The importance of these organelles in shock and multiple organ dysfunction is of particular interest to those caring for the critically ill. Mitochondria have their own unique DNA (mtDNA) that encodes 13 essential subunits of electron transport chain enzymes, two ribosomal RNAs and 22 transfer RNAs. Importantly, mtDNA is especially susceptible to deletions, rearrangements and mutations because it is not bound by histones and lacks the extensive repair machinery present in the nucleus. The study by Côté et al. in this issue of Critical Care examines changes in mtDNA in critically ill patients. The results support further investigation into the role of mtDNA in the critically ill.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cb/5d/PMC2206497.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4747479", "abstract": "Objective: To determine whether peripheral immune responses as measured by serum antigen arrays are linked to cerebral MRI measures of disease severity in multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, serum samples were obtained from patients with relapsing-remitting MS (n = 21) and assayed using antigen arrays that contained 420 antigens including CNS-related autoantigens, lipids, and heat shock proteins. Normalized compartment-specific global brain volumes were obtained from 3-tesla MRI as surrogates of atrophy, including gray matter fraction (GMF), white matter fraction (WMF), and total brain parenchymal fraction (BPF). Total brain T2 hyperintense lesion volume (T2LV) was quantified from fluid-attenuated inversion recovery images. Results: We found serum antibody patterns uniquely correlated with BPF, GMF, WMF, and T2LV. Furthermore, we identified immune signatures linked to MRI markers of neurodegeneration (BPF, GMF, WMF) that differentiated those linked to T2LV. Each MRI measure was correlated with a specific set of antibodies. Strikingly, immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to lipids were linked to brain MRI measures. Based on the association between IgG antibody reactivity and each unique MRI measure, we developed a lipid index. This comprised the reactivity directed against all of the lipids associated with each specific MRI measure. We validated these findings in an additional independent set of patients with MS (n = 14) and detected a similar trend for the correlations between BPF, GMF, and T2LV vs their respective lipid indexes. Conclusions: We propose serum antibody repertoires that are associated with MRI measures of cerebral MS involvement. Such antibodies may serve as biomarkers for monitoring disease pathology and progression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/9d/NEURIMMINFL2015007229.PMC4747479.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2950031", "abstract": "Splicing of the precursors of eukaryotic mRNA and some non-coding RNAs is catalyzed by the ‘spliceosome’, which comprises five RNA-protein complexes (small nuclear ribonucleoproteins, or snRNPs) that assemble in an ordered manner onto precursor-mRNAs. Much progress has been made in determining the gross morphology of spliceosomal assembly intermediates. Recently, the first crystal structure of a spliceosomal snRNP has provided significant insight into assembly and architecture of spliceosomal snRNPs in general and the structure-function relationship of human U1 snRNP in particular.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1b/b2/1757-594X-0002-0000000039.PMC2950031.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4807136", "abstract": "Background and Aim: Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) who develop cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) have a median survival of less than 6 months. In half of cases, PSC and CCA will be diagnosed either concurrently or within a year of one another. The aim of the present study is to demonstrate that the degree of biochemical liver dysfunction is associated with concomitant or impending CCA. Methods: We did a chart review of patients diagnosed with PSC and CCA up to 18 months from presentation (“CCA” group) as well as patients with PSC that underwent transplantation with no sign of CCA in their explanted liver (“nCCA” group). Along with demographic data and follow-up length, we recorded their presenting liver function tests, including alanine and aspartate aminotransferases (ALT, AST), total bilirubin (TBil), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), international normalization ratio (INR), and serum Ca 19-9 levels. Differences between mean values of the two groups were analyzed with a student’s t-test. Results: Twenty-four patients were included. The “CCA” group consisted of eight patients, and the “non-CCA” group had 16 patients. There was no significant difference between the two groups in their presenting values of ALT, ALP, or serum Ca 19-9. However, the “CCA” group had significantly higher levels of AST, TBil, and INR. Conclusion: Patients with PSC and concurrent or impending CCA appear to exhibit significantly greater biochemical liver dysfunction than those who do not develop CCA. Therefore, newly-diagnosed PSC patients presenting with these findings may warrant more rigorous evaluation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/16/JCTH-4-001.PMC4807136.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4834379", "abstract": "Background: Among the opportunistic microorganisms, fungi, particularly Candida, play an important role in the mortality of transplant recipients. Thus, controlling and preventing fungal colonizations in various parts of the body, including the oral cavity, can reduce the possibility of post-transplant invasive fungal infections. This can be done simply by using mouthwashes. Objectives: The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of fungal species of Candida within the oral cavities of liver transplant recipients, and to evaluate the effects on Candida colonization of different exposure times to common mouthwashes. Patients and Methods: Specimens were taken from the oral cavities of 101 liver transplant recipients who were referred to our clinic for their first monthly examination. After cultivation and DNA extraction, yeast strains were identified with the RFLP technique. Each strain’s susceptibility to 0.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/39/hepatmon-16-01-31245.PMC4834379.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2994693", "abstract": "PURPOSE The aims of this study were to suggest a method of fabrication of the record base using a light-polymerized resin by applying the two-phase fabrication method for the improvement of the fit of the record base and to compare the degree of fit according to the separation site. MATERIALS AND METHODS In the edentulous cast of maxilla, four test groups were considered. In the first, second, third, and fourth test groups (n = 12 in each group) the separation was done at 0, 5, 10, and 15 mm, respectively below the alveolar crest along the palatal plane. For the control group, the record base was made without separating the two sections. The light-body silicone material was injected into the fitting surface of the record base. It was then placed onto the cast and finger pressure was applied to stabilize it in a seated position followed by immediate placement onto the universal test device. Finally, the mass of the impression material was measured after it was removed. ANOVA was performed using the SAS program. For the post-hoc test, the Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test and the Tukey-Kramer HSD test were performed (α = 0.05). RESULTS The control group and Group 3, 4 showed significant differences. The Group 3 and 4 showed significantly smaller inside gaps than the control group which was not made with the two-phase fabrication method. CONCLUSION The two-stage polymerized technique can improve the fit of the denture base particularly when the separation was made at 10 to 15 mm from the alveolar crest.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4e/9b/jap-2-102.PMC2994693.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4734984", "abstract": "Objective Parkinsonism and other movement disorders have previously been reported in the acquired hepatocerebral degeneration associated with portosystemic shunting. However, there is no study to date about their prevalence as has been noted in general practice. Methods One hundred and forty-three patients with hepatic cirrhosis from the gastroenterology clinic and internal medicine wards were enrolled. Liver data included the diagnoses, etiologies, assessments of complications, and treatments for cirrhosis. Hepatic encephalopathy was classified with regard to the West Haven criteria for semi-quantitative grading for mental status. Neurological examination results and abnormal involuntary movements were recorded as primary outcomes. Neuro-radiology was used for the detection of severe brain lesions. Results Alcoholism was the most common cause of liver cirrhosis. Eighty-three patients (58", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ee/c8/jmd-15034.PMC4734984.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4756006", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study investigated the effects of resistance exercise on cardiopulmonary functions in young sedentary subjects. [Subjects] Forty-two young and healthy subjects with a sedentary lifestyle were included in this study. [Methods] The subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups: control and experimental. The control group (n=21) received health education and continued with normal activities of daily living. The experimental group (n=21) underwent resistance training, health education, and continued with normal activities of daily living. The resistance exercise program consisted of 3 postural exercises: chest press, dumbbell pullover, and flat-bench dumbbell fly. The subjects received this intervention 3 times/week for 8 weeks. [Results] The baseline characteristics were comparable between the 2 groups. The 6-minute-walk test score, peak expiratory flow, forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, maximal voluntary ventilation, and chest expansions were significantly improved post-intervention in the experimental group and between the 2 groups. [Conclusion] Cardiopulmonary functions in young sedentary subjects were significantly improved with the 8-week resistance exercise program.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/b1/jpts-28-213.PMC4756006.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3317216", "abstract": "Preterm delivery (PTD), defined as birth before 37 completed weeks of gestation, is the leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Evaluation of the cervical morphology and biometry with transvaginal ultrasonography at 16–24 weeks of gestation is a useful tool to predict the risk of preterm birth in low- and high-risk singleton pregnancies. For instance, a sonographic cervical length (CL) > 30 mm and present cervical gland area have a 96-97", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/db/5e/PMC3317216.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5048050", "abstract": " Objective. Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, and insulin therapy has many side effects in the treatment of DN. Islet transplantation has emerged as a promising therapy for diabetic patients. This study was established to investigate its advantageous effects in a rat model of early DN. Methods. Streptozotocin was administered to the rats to induce diabetes. Twelve weeks later, the diabetic rats were divided into 3 groups: the islet-transplanted group (IT group), the insulin-treated group (IN group), and the untreated group (DN group). Renal injury and kidney structure were assessed by urinalysis and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) detection. Immunohistochemical staining and western blotting were performed to assess renal fibrosis levels. Results. The early DN features were reversed and the glomerular filtration barrier and basement membrane structures were improved at 4 weeks after islet transplantation. The urine microalbumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR), protein-to-creatinine ratio, and mean thickness of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) were significantly decreased in the IT group. The expression of renal fibrotic factors was also significantly decreased. Conclusions. These data suggest that early DN can be reversed after islet transplantation, and they may facilitate the development of a clinical therapeutic strategy for human diabetes mellitus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/60/9e/PMC5048050.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3087893", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tBackground. Exclusion of underlying coronary artery disease (CAD) is essential in the diagnosis of chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy. Presence and severity of CAD can also impact the choice of therapy in cancer patients. The value of cardiac computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) in this setting has not been reported. Methods. We collected data on the clinical presentation and indications for CCTA performed from January to December 2008 at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC). All examinations were performed using a 64-detector scanner. CCTA results and subsequent treatment decisions were examined. Results. A total of 80 patients underwent CCTA during the study period for the following indications (not mutually exclusive): cardiomyopathy of unknown etiology in 33 pts (41.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1e/c0/PMC3087893.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2994676", "abstract": "An 18 year old female with oligodontia and maxillary hypoplasia was treated using an interdisciplinary team approach involving orthodontists, maxillofacial surgeons and prosthodontists. Full mouth one-piece fixed partial dentures were the final restoration. The fixed partial dentures fabricated for the maxilla and mandible using the concept of a shortened dental arch resulted in improved esthetics and the masticatory function. This paper describes the treatment procedures for an oligodontia patient with alveolar bone hypoplasia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a7/c1/jap-1-6.PMC2994676.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3440867", "abstract": "Maintaining cellular viability in vivo and in vitro is a critical issue in three-dimensional bone tissue engineering. While the use of osteoblast/endothelial cell cocultures on three-dimensional constructs has shown promise for increasing in vivo vascularization, in vitro maintenance of cellular viability remains problematic. This study used perfusion flow to increase osteogenic and angiogenic gene expression, decrease hypoxic gene expression, and increase cell and matrix coverage in osteoblast/endothelial cell co-cultures. Mouse osteoblast-like cells (MC3T3-E1) were cultured alone and in co-culture with mouse microvascular endothelial cells (EOMA) on three-dimensional scaffolds for 1, 2, 7, and 14 days with or without perfusion flow. mRNA levels were determined for several osteogenic, angiogenic, and hypoxia-related genes, and histological analysis was performed. Perfusion flow downregulated hypoxia-related genes (HIF-1α, VEGF, and OPN) at early timepoints, upregulated osteogenic genes (ALP and OCN) at 7 days, and downregulated RUNX-2 and VEGF mRNA at 14 days in osteoblast monocultures. Perfusion flow increased cell number, coverage of the scaffold perimeter, and matrix area in the center of scaffolds at 14 days. Additionally, perfusion flow increased the length of endothelial cell aggregations within co-cultures. These suggest perfusion stimulated co-cultures provide a means of increasing osteogenic and angiogenic activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cf/78/PMC3440867.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4864161", "abstract": "Abstract Even though most clinical data on cachexia have been reported from Western countries, cachexia may be a growing problem in Asia as well, as the population in this area of the world is considerably larger. Considering the current definitions of obesity and sarcopenia in Japan, which are different from the ones in Western countries, the lack of a distinct cachexia definition in Japan is strinking. Only one epidemiological study has reported the prevalence of cachexia using weight loss as part of the definition in patients with stage III or IV non‐small cell lung cancer. Although the reported prevalence of 45.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cc/49/JCSM-7-515.PMC4864161.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5223750", "abstract": "Objective The purposes of this study were to introduce a superficial temporal artery (STA)-sparing mini-pterional approach for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms and review the surgical results of this approach. Methods Between June 2010 and December 2015, we performed the STA-sparing mini-pterional approach for 117 patients with 141 unruptured intracranial aneurysms. We analyzed demographic, radiologic, and clinical variables including age, sex, craniotomy size, aneurysm location, height of STA bifurcation, and postoperative complications. Results The mean age of patients was 58.4 years. The height of STA bifurcation from the superior border of the zygomatic arch was 20.5 mm±10.0 (standard deviation [SD]). The craniotomy size was 1051.6 mm2±206.5 (SD). Aneurysm neck clipping was possible in all cases. Intradural anterior clinoidectomy was performed in four cases. Contralateral approaches to aneurysms were adopted for four cases. Surgery-related complications occurred in two cases. Permanent morbidity occurred in one case. Conclusion Our STA-sparing mini-pterional approach for surgical treatment of cerebral aneurysms is easy to learn and has the advantages of small incision, STA sparing, and a relatively wide surgical field. It may be a good alternative to the conventional pterional approach for treating cerebral aneurysms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/41/ea/jkns-60-1-8.PMC5223750.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4229784", "abstract": "Over the past few decades, MRI of the prostate has made great strides in improving cancer detection and is being embraced by more clinicians each day. This article aims to review the imaging characteristics of common and uncommon, but consequential lesions involving the seminal vesicles (SV), as seen predominantly on MRI. Many of these findings are seen incidentally during imaging of the prostate. Anatomy and embryology of the SV will be described which will help illustrate the associations of abnormalities seen. Congenital, infectious, neoplastic, and tumor mimics will be explored in detail, with discussion on clinical presentation and treatment strategies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/42/JCIS-4-61.PMC4229784.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2684978", "abstract": "Cancer vaccines typically depend on cumbersome and expensive manipulation of cells in the laboratory, and subsequent cell transplantation leads to poor lymph node homing and limited efficacy. We propose that materials mimicking key aspects of bacterial infection may instead be used to directly control immune cell trafficking and activation in the body. It is demonstrated that polymers can be designed to first release a cytokine to recruit and house host dendritic cells (DCs), and subsequently present cancer antigens and danger signals to activate the resident DCs and dramatically enhance their homing to lymph nodes. Specific and protective anti-tumor immunity was generated with these materials, as 90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a3/0f/PMC2684978.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3156108", "abstract": "A retrospective nationwide study on the use of intravenous (IV) zanamivir in patients receiving intensive care who were pretreated with oseltamivir in the Netherlands was performed. In 6 of 13 patients with a sustained reduction of the viral load, the median time to start IV zanamivir was 9 days (range, 4–11 days) compared with 14 days (range, 6–21 days) in 7 patients without viral load reduction (P = .052). Viral load response did not influence mortality. We conclude that IV zanamivir as late add-on therapy has limited effectiveness. The effect of an immediate start with IV zanamivir monotherapy or in combination with other drugs need to be evaluated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2c/f7/jir397.PMC3156108.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2896083", "abstract": "Recombination signal sequences (RSSs) flanking V, D and J gene segments are recognized and cut by the VDJ recombinase during development of B and T lymphocytes. All RSSs are composed of seven conserved nucleotides, followed by a spacer (containing either 12 ± 1 or 23 ± 1 poorly conserved nucleotides) and a conserved nonamer. Errors in V(D)J recombination, including cleavage of cryptic RSS outside the immunoglobulin and T cell receptor loci, are associated with oncogenic translocations observed in some lymphoid malignancies. We present in this paper the RSSsite web server, which is available from the address http://www.itb.cnr.it/rss. RSSsite consists of a web-accessible database, RSSdb, for the identification of pre-computed potential RSSs, and of the related search tool, DnaGrab, which allows the scoring of potential RSSs in user-supplied sequences. This latter algorithm makes use of probability models, which can be recasted to Bayesian network, taking into account correlations between groups of positions of a sequence, developed starting from specific reference sets of RSSs. In validation laboratory experiments, we selected 33 predicted cryptic RSSs (cRSSs) from 11 chromosomal regions outside the immunoglobulin and TCR loci for functional testing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/e6/gkq391.PMC2896083.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3634968", "abstract": "OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of the intraoperative use of hydroxyethyl starch on the need for blood products in the perioperative period of oncologic surgery. The secondary end-points included the need for other blood products, the clotting profile, the intensive care unit mortality and length of stay. METHODS: Retrospective observational analysis in a tertiary oncologic ICU in Brazil including 894 patients submitted to oncologic surgery for a two-year period from September 2007. Patients were grouped according to whether hydroxyethyl starch was used during surgery (hydroxyethyl starch and No-hydroxyethyl starch groups) and compared using a propensity score analysis. A total of 385 propensity-matched patients remained in the analysis (97 in the No-hydroxyethyl starch group and 288 in the hydroxyethyl starch group). RESULTS: A higher percentage of patients in the hydroxyethyl starch group required red blood cell transfusion during surgery (26", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7a/b5/cln-68-04-501.PMC3634968.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4716418", "abstract": "Objective We previously reported that lupus anticoagulant (LAC) is the main predictor of poor pregnancy outcome in antiphospholipid antibody (aPL)-positive patients. We sought to confirm this finding in an independent group of patients who were subsequently recruited into the PROMISSE study. Methods The PROMISSE study is a multicentre, prospective, observational study of pregnancy outcomes in women with aPL and/or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) that enrolled patients from 2003 to 2015. All consecutive, aPL-positive patients from the PROMISSE study who completed their pregnancy between April 2011 and January 2015 (after the previous PROMISSE report) are included in the current report. Patients were followed monthly until delivery, and aPL was tested at first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy and at 12 weeks post partum. Adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) were defined as fetal death after 12 weeks of gestation, neonatal death, delivery prior to 36 weeks of gestation due to pre-eclampsia or placental insufficiency or small-for-gestational age (birth weight <5th percentile). Results Forty-four aPL-positive patients are included in this paper. Thirteen patients had APOs, which occurred in 80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/63/52/lupus-2015-000131.PMC4716418.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4610663", "abstract": "Introduction: Polymorphonuclear neutrophil leukocytes (PMNL) have an important defensive role against various microorganisms and other agents, but by liberating various substances, first of all the superoxide anion (O 2¯), they can damage the bronchial mucosa and influence the development of bronchial inflammation which is the fundamental of bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR). Objective: to show the role of the PMNL for development and level of BHR in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Material and methods: We observed 160 patients with COPD treated in Clinic for Pulmonary Diseases and TB “Podhrastovi” Sarajevo during three years :from 2012 to 2014. They were divided into groups and subgroups according to the first registration of BHR in the course of illness and to the number of exacerbations of the disease in one year. The number of blood PMNL was measured in a stable state of disease at the begging and at the end of investigation. Results: The number of blood PMNL was significantly greater in patients with 3 or more exacerbations per one year (p <0.01). Patients with BHR had significantly greater number blood PMNL than patients without BHR (p< 0.05). Patients with 3 exacerbations per year had a statistically significant increase of number of PMNL between first and last examination (p<0.01). Conclusion: There is statistically significant correlation between the number of blood PMNL and the level of BHR in COPD, but future examination need to be done to determine real role and mode of action of PMNL for these processes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/ad/MA-69-244.PMC4610663.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4440452", "abstract": "Sumarry  Introduction: Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) is a degenerative disease that can cause loss of coordination of voluntary muscle movement such as that required for swallowing.  Aims: The purposes of this cross-sectional and comparative case study were: (1) to assess the severity of dysphagia through a videofluoroscopic swallow study, and (2) to compare differences in frequency, intensity, and duration of sound waves produced during swallowing in normal and SCA patients by using sonar Doppler.  Method: During swallow evaluation using videofluoroscopy, a sonar Doppler transducer was placed on the right side of the neck, at the lateral edge of the trachea, just below the cricoid cartilage to capture the sounds of swallowing in 30 SCA patients and 30 controls.  Result: The prevalence in the dynamic evaluation of swallowing videofluoroscopy was by changes in the oral phase of swallowing. The analysis of variance of the averages found in each variable - frequency, intensity and duration of swallowing - shows there was a significant correlation when compared to the healthy individual curve.  Conclusion: The study demonstrates the prevalence of oral dysphagia observed in dynamic videofluoroscopic swallow evaluation. In patients with SCA, the mean initial frequency (IF), initial intensity (II), and final intensity (FI) were higher and the time (T) and peak frequency (PF) were lower, demonstrating a pattern of cricopharyngeal opening very close to that found in normal populations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0d/c9/PMC4440452.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2592753", "abstract": "Ventilator-associated pneumonia is a familiar foe in intensive care units, but those associated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa have a particularly adverse impact on outcome. Correct antibiotic therapy and a novel endotracheal tube may reduce this burden. Does activated protein C improve outcome from acute lung injury and what is the role played by hyperventilation therapy in traumatic brain injury? Recent research has attempted to answer these questions. Further novel approaches have been evaluated in the management of ischaemic heart disease, and more light has been shed on acute bowel injury.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/49/PMC2592753.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5099390", "abstract": "Heat shock proteins (HSPs) belong to the family of conservative polypeptides with a high homology of the primary structure. The uniqueness of this family lies in their ability to interact with a large number of different proteins and provide protection from cellular and environmental stress factors as molecular chaperones to keep protein homeostasis. While intracellular HSPs play a mainly protective role, extracellular or membrane-bound HSPs mediate immunological functions and immunomodulatory activity. In immune system are subsets of cells including regulatory T cells (Tregs) with suppressive functions. HSPs are implicated in the function of innate and adaptive immune systems, stimulate T lymphocyte proliferation and immunomodulatory functions, increase the effectiveness of cross-presentation of antigens, and induce the secretion of cytokines. HSPs are also important in the induction, proliferation, suppressive function, and cytokine production of Tregs, which are a subset of CD4+ T cells maintaining peripheral tolerance. Together HSPs and Tregs are potential tools for future clinical interventions in autoimmune disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/42/82/CEJI-41-28584.PMC5099390.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3371807", "abstract": "How emergency departments of different levels and types cope with a large-scale contagious infectious disease is unclear. We retrospectively analyzed the response of 100 emergency departments regarding use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and implementation of infection control measures (ICMs) during the severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak in Taiwan. Emergency department workers in large hospitals were more severely affected by the epidemic. Large hospitals or public hospitals were more likely to use respirators. Small hospitals implemented more restrictive ICMs. Most emergency departments provided PPE (80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8b/97/PMC3371807.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2858278", "abstract": "The authors describe a 9 month old female with recurrent atypical central neurocytoma and leptomeningeal spread treated with high dose chemotherapy, autologous stem cell rescue, and adjuvant therapy. She had a complete response to therapy and was disease free at 4 years of age until a recurrence 6 months later. The use of intensive chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell rescue for atypical neurocytoma may be considered as an adjunct to surgical therapy in young patients with atypical neurocytoma not amenable to radiation therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/dd/11060_2009_Article_29.PMC2858278.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3633392", "abstract": "Aim: The aim of this work has been to present the frequency, etiology and several other socio-demographic characteristics of acute poisoning in children. The treated patients and methods of work: The treated patients were children of all age groups hospitalized in the Pediatric Clinic of Prishtina during year 2009. The study was done retrospectively. The diagnosis was done on the basis of heteroanamnesis and in several cases on the basis of the anamnesis data of a child, routine laboratory tests and toxicologic analysis. Results: 66 (9.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/6a/MSM-24-76.PMC3633392.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4304449", "abstract": "Personalized medicine’s foundation rests on the use of molecular technologies, which are being used to identify genetic mutations, polymorphisms, and variants that can be associated with an individual’s genetic make up, revealing risk factors and predictive data. Needless to say this same analysis can be performed on various types of cancers, including samples stored for many years under the right conditions. For the most part, these technologies employ microarray and RNA-Seq methodologies, which examine large numbers of gene expressions at a time, providing clustering and patterns of this expression. The methodologies and their evaluative outcomes further demonstrate that more than a single gene is involved with various phenomena. However, given the mass of data emerging from this analysis, and commonalities they reveal between various phenomena/disorders, achieving 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b4/34/PMC4304449.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4540879", "abstract": "[Purpose] The present study aimed to determine the effects of short muscle strength exercise on hepatocyte growth factor expression and satellite cell activation. [Subjects] The study included 72 2–12-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats. [Methods] The rat plantaris muscle was contracted with a 5-min electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve, and then, the mRNA expressions of hepatocyte growth factor and myogenic regulatory factors in the plantaris muscle were determined, and the phosphorylation of the hepatocyte growth factor receptor (c-Met) was examined. [Results] The mRNA expressions of hepatocyte growth factor and myogenic regulatory factors increased after a short muscle contraction compared to that un-contraction. Immunofluorescence analysis showed the expression of hepatocyte growth factor protein and the possibility that downstream biological changes occurred in the hepatocyte growth factor-bound c-Met. [Conclusion] Our results demonstrated that activation of satellite cells induced hepatocyte growth factor expression during muscle contraction with a short 5-min electrical stimulation, which simulates short muscle strength exercise in physical therapy. The present study provides evidence for the use of short muscle strength exercise in physical therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/18/73/jpts-27-2349.PMC4540879.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4198787", "abstract": "This paper provides a demonstration of propensity-score matching estimation methods to evaluate the effectiveness of health-risk communication efforts. This study develops a two-stage regression model to investigate household and respondent characteristics as they contribute to aversion behavior to reduce exposure to arsenic-contaminated groundwater. The aversion activity under study is a household-level point-of-use filtration device. Since the acquisition of arsenic contamination information and the engagement in an aversion activity may be codetermined, a two-stage propensity-score model is developed. In the first stage, the propensity for households to acquire arsenic contamination information is estimated. Then, the propensity scores are used to weight observations in a probit regression on the decision to avert the arsenic-related health risk. Of four potential sources of information, utility, media, friend, or others, information received from a friend appears to be the source of information most associated with aversion behavior. Other statistically significant covariates in the household's decision to avert contamination include reported household income, the presence of children in household, and region-level indicator variables. These findings are primarily illustrative and demonstrate the usefulness of propensity-score methods to estimate health-risk communication effectiveness. They may also be suggestive of areas for future research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f2/4b/PMC4198787.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4574057", "abstract": "Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is a rare congenital disorder, typically characterized by persistently open skull sutures, aplastic or hypoplastic clavicles, and supernumerary teeth. Mutations in the gene encoding the runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) protein are responsible for approximately two thirds of CCD patients. We report a 20-year-old CCD patient presenting not only with typical skeletal changes, but also complex dental anomalies. A previously undiagnosed odontoma, 14 supernumerary teeth, a cystic lesion, and previously unreported fused primary teeth were discovered on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. Mutation analysis identified the causal c.578G>A (p.R193Q) mutation in the RUNX2 gene. At 20 years of age, the patient had already missed the optimal period for dental intervention. This report describes the complex dental anomalies in a belatedly diagnosed CCD patient, and emphasizes the significance of CBCT assessment for the detection of dental anomalies and the importance of early treatment to achieve good outcomes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/94/isd-45-187.PMC4574057.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2866250", "abstract": "Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex auto-immune disorder which involves various facets of the immune system. In addition to autoantibody production and immune complex deposition, emerging evidences suggest that cytokines may act as key players in the immunopathogenesis of SLE. These cytokines assume a critical role in the differentiation, maturation and activation of cells and also participate in the local inflammatory processes that mediate tissue insults in SLE. Certain cytokines such as the IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, BLys, type I interferons (IFN) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) are closely linked to pathogenesis of SLE. The delineation of the role played by these cytokines not only fosters our understanding of this disease but also provides a sound rationale for various therapeutic approaches. In this context, this review focuses on selected cytokines which exert significant effect in the pathogenesis of SLE and their possible clinical applications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a9/a1/PMC2866250.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3341456", "abstract": "Enterocutaneous (EC) fistula is an abnormal connection between the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and skin. The majority of EC fistulas result from surgery. About one third of fistulas close spontaneously with medical treatment and radiologic interventions. Surgical treatment should be reserved for use after sufficient time has passed from the previous laparotomy to allow lysis of the fibrous adhesion using full nutritional and medical treatment and until a complete understanding of the anatomy of the fistula has been achieved. The successful management of GI fistula requires a multi-disciplinary team approach including a gastroenterologist, interventional radiologist, enterostomal therapist, dietician, social worker and surgeons. With this coordinated approach, EC fistula can be controlled with acceptable morbidity and mortality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/af/20/kjr-13-S17.PMC3341456.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3417947", "abstract": "While ultrasound (US)-guided placement of peripheral nerve blocks is rapidly gaining popularity, expert practitioners agree that two of the most significant barriers to safety and efficacy are keeping the needle tip within the image and unintentional probe movement during the procedure. In addition, placing a nerve catheter past the needle tip under direct US observation requires two practitioners: one to hold the US probe and needle and another to advance the catheter. We present a case of a needle guidance system that attaches to the ultrasound probe and facilitates in-plane imaging. It enables a single practitioner to successfully execute a popliteal sciatic nerve block and visualize catheter placement. Therefore, a needle guidance system may represent an additional modification to ultrasound imaging that increases both time efficiency as well as safety.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/90/ff/PMC3417947.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4584388", "abstract": "Formation of uniform Fe and SrO rods as well as nanoparticles following controlled reduction of La0.6Sr0.4FeO3−δ (LSF) and Ni-LSF samples in dry and moist hydrogen is studied by aberration-corrected electron microscopy. Metallic Fe and SrO precipitate from the perovskite lattice as rods of several tenths of nm and thicknesses up to 20 nm. Based on a model of Fe whisker growth following reduction of pure iron oxides, Fe rod exsolution from LSF proceeds via rate-limiting lattice oxygen removal. This favors the formation of single iron metal nuclei at the perovskite surface, subsequently growing as isolated rods. The latter is only possible upon efficient removal of reduction-induced water and, subsequently, reduction of Fe +III/+IV to Fe(0). If water remains in the system, no reduction or rod formation occurs. In contrast, formation of SrO rods following reduction in dry hydrogen is a catalytic process aided by Ni particles. It bears significant resemblance to surface diffusion-controlled carbon whisker growth on Ni, leading to similar extrusion rods and filaments. In addition to SrO rod growth, the exsolution of Fe nanoparticles and, subsequently, Ni–Fe alloy particles is observed. The latter have also been observed under static hydrogen reduction. Under strict control of the experimental parameters, the presented data therefore open an attractive chemically driven pathway to metal nanoarchitectures beyond the formation of “simple” nanoparticles.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e2/49/PMC4584388.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1794448", "abstract": "Nitric oxide (NO) is an important mediator of host defence and of vascular tone. In septic shock, upregulation of inducible NO synthase leads to the production of vast amounts of NO, which contribute to pathogen elimination but also to inappropriate vasodilation and to loss of vascular resistance. Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is an endogenous inhibitor of NO synthases shown to contribute to the regulation of vascular tone. ADMA was recently identified as a marker of organ dysfunction and mortality in intensive care patients and as a novel cardiovascular risk factor. In the present issue of Critical Care, a study by O'Dwyer and colleagues identifies ADMA as a potential regulator of NO production in septic shock. Being an inhibitor of NO production, ADMA may at least partly counteract pathological hypotension, but at the same time may impair the NO-dependent host defence. A mechanism is proposed by which the interplay between ADMA and inducible NO synthase activity is mediated. ADMA levels should be determined in future studies evaluating the regulation of NO in the intensive care setting.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/39/fc/PMC1794448.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4464590", "abstract": "Atypical hyperplasia of the breast (AH) is associated with increased risk of subsequent invasive breast cancer, yet little is known about the etiology of AH. Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2 (IGFBP-2) may contribute to the development of AH due to its proliferative effects on mammary tissue. We conducted a nested case-control study of postmenopausal women enrolled in Women's Health Initiative-Clinical Trial. Cases were 275 women who developed incident AH during follow-up, individually (1 : 1) matched to controls. Levels of IGFBP-2 were determined from fasting serum collected at baseline. Multivariable conditional logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios for the association of IGFBP-2 with risk of AH. Serum IGFBP-2 was associated with a nonsignificant decrease in risk for AH, when comparing the highest quartile to lowest quartile (OR = 0.65; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ae/30/PMC4464590.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4590571", "abstract": "Tumor progression during end-of-life care can lead to significant pain, which at times may be refractory to routine analgesic techniques. Although regional anesthesia is commonly used for postoperative pain care, there is limited experience with its use during home hospice care. We present a 24-year-old male with end-stage metastatic osteosarcoma who required anesthetic care for a right-sided above-the-elbow amputation. The anesthetic management was complicated by the presence of a large mediastinal mass, limited pulmonary reserve, and severe chronic pain with a high preoperative opioid requirement. Intraoperative anesthesia and postoperative pain management were provided by regional anesthesia using an interscalene catheter. He was discharged home with the interscalene catheter in place with a continuous local anesthetic infusion that allowed weaning of his chronic opioid medications and the provision of effective pain control. The perioperative applications of regional anesthesia in palliative and home hospice care are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/89/75/jpr-8-641.PMC4590571.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4716754", "abstract": "Purpose AURA was an international, retrospective, observational study that monitored the real-life use and effectiveness of ranibizumab injections in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). This paper reports the findings from the UK. Methods Patients who started treatment with ranibizumab between January 1, 2009, and August 31, 2009, and had documented follow-up to the end of their treatment and/or monitoring or until August 31, 2011, were retrospectively monitored; the diagnosis and subsequent decision to treat was made by the patient’s own physician. Assessments included the change in visual acuity (standardized letter count) during the first and second years after start of ranibizumab therapy and resource utilization. Results Four hundred and ten patients from 13 UK centers were analyzed. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) letter score at baseline was 55.0 (17.8). The mean (SD) change in visual acuity from baseline was +6.0 (15.4) letters at year 1 and +4.1 (16.9) at year 2. Most of the patients (86.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f2/b9/opth-10-087.PMC4716754.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3463915", "abstract": "Vascular inflammation is an important component of the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and aneurysms. All vascular cells, including endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and infiltrating cells, such as macrophages, orchestrate a series of pathological events. Despite dramatic improvements in the treatment of atherosclerosis, the molecular basis of vascular inflammation is not well understood. In the last decade, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been revealed as novel regulators of vascular inflammation. Each miRNAs suppresses a set of genes, forming complex regulatory network. This paper provides an overview of current advances that have been made in revealing the roles of miRNAs during vascular inflammation. Recent studies show that miRNAs not only exist inside cells but also circulate in blood. These circulating miRNAs are useful biomarkers for diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, recent studies demonstrate that circulating miRNAs are delivered into certain recipient cells and act as messengers. These studies suggest that miRNAs provide new therapeutic opportunities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5f/cd/PMC3463915.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3886081", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objectives The aim of this study was to compare microbiological, histological, and mechanical findings from tissues around osseointergrated dental implants in patients who had undergone tumour resection and subsequent bone grafting with non bone grafted patients without a history of oral cancer and to develop an effective tool for the monitoring of the peri-implant tissues. A third aim was to assess and compare the masticatory function of the two patient groups after reconstruction with dental implants. Material and Methods A total of 20 patients were divided into 2 groups. The first group was edentulous and treated with dental implants without the need for bone grafting. The second edentulous group, with a history of oral cancer involving the mandible, received onlay bone grafts with concurrent placement of dental implants. Microbiological, histological, mechanical and biochemical assessment methods, crevicular fluid flow rate, hygiene-index, implant mobility, and the masticatory function were analysed and compared in both patient groups. Results The microbiological examinations showed no evidence of the three most common pathogenic bacteria: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedius, Actinobacillus actinomycetencomitans. A causal relationship between specific microbes and peri-implant inflammation could not be found. All biopsies in both patient groups revealed early signs of soft tissue peri-implant inflammation. Conclusions The crevicular fluid volume and grade of gingival inflammation around the dental implants were related. Peri-implant tissue findings were similar in the two patient groups despite the history of oral cancer and the need for bone grafting at the time of dental implant placement.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/9e/jomr-02-e2.PMC3886081.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4612484", "abstract": "Wellens’ syndrome, also known as LAD coronary T-wave syndrome or the ‘widow maker’, is a pre-infarction syndrome with non-classical ischemic ECG changes and unremarkable cardiac biomarkers. This syndrome continues to be a ‘can't miss’ for the clinician as delay in urgent angiography and intervention can result in anterior myocardial infarction, left ventricular dysfunction, arrhythmias, and death. We describe a case followed by a discussion of identification criteria and clinical implications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/be/JCHIMP-5-29384.PMC4612484.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4589631", "abstract": " Introduction. Operations are performed for broader liver surgery indications for a better understanding of hepatic anatomy/physiology and developments in operation technology. Surgery can cure some patients with liver metastasis of some tumors. Nevertheless, postoperative liver failure is the most feared complication causing mortality in patients who have undergone excision of a large liver mass. The human amniotic membrane has regenerative effects. Thus, we investigated the effects of the human amniotic membrane on regeneration of the resected liver. Methods. Twenty female Wistar albino rats were divided into control and experimental groups and underwent a 70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/9d/PMC4589631.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4808261", "abstract": "Excessive acetabular anteversion is an important treatment consideration in hip preservation surgery. There is currently no reliable quantitative method for determining acetabular anteversion utilizing radiographs alone. The three main purposes of this study were to: (i) define and validate the neck axis distance (NAD) as a new visual and reproducible semi-quantitative radiographic parameter used to measure acetabular anteversion; (ii) determine the degree of correlation between NAD and computed tomography (CT)-measured acetabular anteversion; (iii) establish a sensitive and specific threshold value for NAD to identify excessive acetabular anteversion. This retrospective cohort study included all patients presenting to a single institution over a 14-month period who had undergone a dedicated musculoskeletal CT pelvis along with a standardized anteroposterior (AP) pelvis radiograph. Trained observers measured the NAD on the AP pelvis radiograph and equatorial acetabular anteversion on CT for all hips. Mixed model analysis was used to find prediction equations, and ROC analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of NAD. NAD is a valid semi-quantitative predictor of acetabular anteversion and strongly correlates with CT-measured equatorial acetabular anteversion (P  <  0.0001). A NAD measurement of greater than 14 mm predicts excessive acetabular anteversion with 76", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/c7/hnv082.PMC4808261.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3492962", "abstract": "Local chest wall progression of chemotherapy/radiation-resistant breast cancer can result in substantial morbidity. In this retrospective review of 39 patients in this difficult clinical setting treated at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (Eastern Regional Medical Center), approximately one-half of the population experienced meaningful short-term palliation and improvement in quality of life when managed with local superficial hyperthermia plus external beam radiation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/41/0d/cro-0005-0520.PMC3492962.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3836959", "abstract": " Background Leksell GammaPlan (LGP) and SurgiPlan (ELEKTA Instruments AB, Stockholm, Sweden) may be used effectively for the detailed evaluation of regional neuroanatomy before open neurosurgical procedures. We report our initial experience in the cases of cerebral gliomas.  Methods LGP v.8.3 was used before the surgical resection of cerebral gliomas for (1) the delineation of subdural grid electrodes and a detailed evaluation of their position relatively to cortical structures, and (2) for the fusion of structural magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for a detailed visualization of the corticospinal tract (CST) and optic radiation.  Results Delineation of the subdural grid within LGP in a patient with seizures caused by left parietal glioma permitted a detailed assessment of the location of electrodes relative to the cortical gyri and sulci and significantly facilitated interpretation of brain mapping before tumor resection. In another patient with parieto-occipital glioma, simultaneous three-dimensional visualization of the tumor, CST, and optic radiation with the use of LGP permitted us to perform tumor resection without postoperative neurologic complications. Finally, incorporation of DTI into SurgiPlan resulted in precise planning of stereotactic biopsy for bilateral thalamic glioma.  Conclusion The possibility for detailed evaluation of regional neuroanatomy based on various images within LGP and SurgiPlan may facilitate effective and safe surgical management of intracranial gliomas.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/53/PMC3836959.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3216255", "abstract": "Uterine transplantation has been proposed as a possible solution to absolute uterine factor infertility untreatable by any other option. Since the first human attempt in 2000, various teams have tried to clarify which immunosuppressant would be most suitable for protecting the allogeneic uterine graft while posing a minimal risk to the fetus. Cyclosporine A (CsA) is an immunosuppressant widely used by transplant recipients. It is currently being tested as a potential immunosuppressant to be used during UTn. Its effect on the mother and fetus and its influence upon the graft during pregnancy have been of major concern. We review the role of CsA in UTn and its effect on pregnant transplant recipients and their offspring.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/67/3d/PMC3216255.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2926586", "abstract": "Deaths from avoidable causes represent the largest component of deaths in young people in Canada and have a considerable social cost in relation to years of potential life lost. We evaluated social and demographic determinants of deaths in youth aged 12–24 years in Nova Scotia for the period 1995–2004. Youth most at risk of death were males, the more socially deprived, and those living in rural areas. There was a five-fold increase in suicides and a three-fold increase in injury deaths in males compared to females and a substantial component of these deaths were amongst males living in rural areas. Initiatives and prevention policies should be targeted towards specific at-risk groups, particularly males living in rural areas. Published vital statistics hide these important trends and thus provide only limited evidence with which to base-prevention initiatives.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c9/27/PMC2926586.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4036642", "abstract": "Health workers reported an increased number of diarrhea cases at Haibatpur village on June 17, 2012. This outbreak was investigated with the following objectives: to confirm the existence of diarrhea outbreak, to find out the risk factors, and propose control measures. Cases were listed; spot map and epidemic curve were drawn. Attack rate was calculated by age and sex and risk factors were found out by calculating odds ratio (OR) with 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/64/e0/PMC4036642.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3664676", "abstract": "The author observed a new accessory bone of the foot in the distal portion of navicular, which articulated with the medial cuneiform and the intermediate cuneiform, and named it os infranaviculare. A degenerative change was observed between the accessory bone and the navicular; this caused midfoot pain to the patient during weight-bearing. Thus, the patient was treated by excision of the accessory bone. The symptom was relieved at one-year postoperative.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/49/cios-5-152.PMC3664676.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4579493", "abstract": "Objective: There are many concerns about the interactions of herbal products with conventional drugs, which are mostly used as multiple drug treatment approach. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of long-term use of Ginkgo biloba extract (GK) on the absorption and tissue distribution of fluoxetine and venlafaxine. Materials and Methods: 46 Wistar rats are utilized and allocated into 8 groups; 2 groups administered the vehicle and saved as control; 4 groups are treated with 100 and 200 mg/kg of GK extract for 30 days; 2 groups are treated with 40 mg/kg verapamil for 10 days. The liver, kidney, and brain distribution of fluoxetine and venlafaxine were evaluated after single oral doses using high performance liquid chromatographic method. Results: 200 mg/kg GK increases fluoxetine concentrations in all studied organs, while GK 100 mg/kg increases venlafaxine levels in kidney tissue and not affected in the other two organs. Conclusion: Thirty days treatment with GK (100 mg/kg) increases kidney availability of venlafaxine, while 200 mg GK dose increases fluoxetine availability in the liver, kidney, and brain tissues after single oral doses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/d7/JIE-4-234.PMC4579493.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3066713", "abstract": "Pregnancy in a rudimentary horn is a very rare condition. It is responsible for several complications. Prognosis is reserved because the natural evolution generally leads to a cataclysmic uterine rupture at the beginning of the second trimester. Classically, the treatment after foetal extraction consists of ablation of the rudimentary horn and associated fallopian tube. We report the obstetric outcome of a patient with history of rudimentary uterine horn rupture, the treatment of which was ablation of the rudimentary horn.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/83/LJM-4-046.PMC3066713.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3087410", "abstract": "We aimed to investigate the association between smoking, alcoholic consumption, and betel quid chewing with oral cancer in a prospective manner. All male patients age ≥18 years who visited our clinic received an oral mucosa inspection. Basic data including personal habits were also obtained. A multivariate logistic regression model was utilized to determine relevant risk factors for developing oral cavity cancer. A total of 10,657 participants were enrolled in this study. Abnormal findings were found in 514 participants (4.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/e4/PMC3087410.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4807941", "abstract": "Purpose A combination therapy with inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting β agonist (LABA) is the standard treatment for asthmatic patients, and step-down treatment is recommended once control has been achieved. However, little data exist that evaluate the long-term outcomes after step-down treatment. Objective To compare the long-term outcomes of step-down therapy with ICS/LABA or ICS alone for asthmatic patients who have achieved well-controlled asthma by the ICS (250 µg fluticasone)/LABA (50 µg salmeterol) combination (SFC, two puffs per day). Patients and methods We randomized 40 well-controlled patients with asthma receiving SFC (250 µg) to two groups; one group of patients received step-down therapy with low-dose SFC (100 µg, two puffs daily) and another group of patients received step-down therapy with high-dose fluticasone propionate (FP) alone (500 µg, daily). The two groups were monitored over 12 months for changes in asthma control test scores, respiratory function (percent forced expiratory volume in 1 second, maximal expiratory flow rate at 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/45/a3/jaa-9-065.PMC4807941.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3823475", "abstract": "Abstract Malignant astrogliomas are among the most aggressive, highly vascular and infiltrating tumours bearing a dismal prognosis, mainly due to their resistance to current radiation treatment and chemotherapy. Efforts to identify and target the mechanisms that underlie astroglioma resistance have recently focused on candidate cancer stem cells, their biological properties, interplay with their local microenvironment or ‘niche’ and their role in tumour progression and recurrence. Both paracrine and autocrine regulation of astroglioma cell behaviour by locally produced cytokines such as the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are emerging as key factors that determine astroglioma cell fate. Here, we review these recent rapid advances in astroglioma research, with emphasis on the significance of VEGF in astroglioma stem-like cell biology. Furthermore, we highlight the unique DNA damage checkpoint properties of the CD133-marker-positive astroglioma stem-like cells, discuss their potential involvement in astroglioma radioresistance and consider the implications of this new knowledge for designing combinatorial, more efficient therapeutic strategies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/03/65/PMC3823475.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4432100", "abstract": "Hepatic glycogen storage diseases (GSD) underscore the intimate relationship between carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. The hyperlipidemias in hepatic GSD reflect perturbed intracellular metabolism, providing biomarkers in blood to monitor dietary management. In different types of GSD, hyperlipidemias are of a different origin. Hypertriglyceridemia is most prominent in GSD type Ia and associated with long-term outcome morbidity, like pancreatitis and hepatic adenomas. In the ketotic subtypes of GSD, hypertriglyceridemia reflects the age-dependent fasting intolerance, secondary lipolysis and increased mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation. The role of high protein diets is established for ketotic types of GSD, but non-traditional dietary interventions (like medium-chain triglycerides and the ketogenic diet) in hepatic GSD are still controversial and necessitate further studies. Patients with these rare inherited disorders of carbohydrate metabolism meet several criteria of the metabolic syndrome, therefore close monitoring for cardiovascular diseases in ageing GSD patients may be justified.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/54/b1/PMC4432100.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4047224", "abstract": " [Purpose] The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of pulsed and continuous ultrasound (US) irradiation on heat shock protein (HSP) 70 and mRNA levels of chondrogenesis-related gene expression in rat tibial articular cartilage. [Subjects and Methods] Forty-eight rats with body weights of 200−250 g were randomly divided into three groups. In the control (CON) group, three rats were treated with sham sonication. The pulsed US irradiation group was irradiated with a pulse rate of 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/be/34/jpts-26-647.PMC4047224.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2666454", "abstract": "PURPOSE To study the benefits of ultrasonography for detecting the borders of pilonidal sinus tissue. The correlation between physical and ultrasonographic examination was used for surgical planning. METHOD Between April and December 2004, 73 patients were recruited for this study. All patients were examined, and the borders of the sinus tissue were marked on the skin according to palpation before surgery. The surgeon also made a treatment plan considering the diseased tissue and marked a possible incision line. Patients were subsequently examined with ultrasonography. According to the ultrasonographic evaluation, the margins, extensions, and openings of pilonidal sinus tissue were determined and marked on the patient in a different color by a radiologist prior to surgery. The most suitable surgical treatment was decided according to the information obtained by ultrasonography. RESULTS The average age was 23.03 ± 3.05 (range 18–39) years. We found 81 lesions in 73 patients. Ultrasonographic borders of sinus tissue were similar to the borders marked by the surgeon in 56 patients (76.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ac/44/PMC2666454.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3017903", "abstract": "The cardiorenal syndrome type 4 (Chronic Renocardiac Syndrome) is characterized by a condition of primary chronic kidney disease (CKD) that leads to an impairment of the cardiac function, ventricular hypertrophy, diastolic dysfunction, and/or increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Clinically, it is very difficult to distinguish between CRS type 2 (Chronic Cardiorenal Syndrome) and CRS type 4 (Chronic Renocardiac Syndrome) because often it is not clear whether the primary cause of the syndrome depends on the heart or the kidney. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), a genetic disease that causes CKD, could be viewed as an ideal prototype of CRS type 4 because it is certain that the primary cause of cardiorenal syndrome is the kidney disease. In this paper, we will briefly review the epidemiology of ADPKD, conventional and novel biomarkers which may be useful in following the disease process, and prevention and treatment strategies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/04/89/PMC3017903.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2873783", "abstract": "Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (Brd4) contains two tandem bromodomains (BD1 and BD2) that bind preferentially to acetylated lysine residues found in histones and nonhistone proteins. This molecular recognition allows Brd4 to associate with acetylated chromatin throughout the cell cycle and regulates transcription at targeted loci. Recruitment of positive transcription elongation factor b, and possibly the general initiation cofactor Mediator as well, plays an important role in Brd4-regulated transcription. Selective contacts with acetyl-lysines in nucleosomal histones and chromatin-binding factors likely provide a molecular switch modulating the steps from chromatin targeting to transcriptional regulation, thus further expanding the ‘acetylation code’ for combinatorial regulation in eukaryotes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8c/a9/1757-594X-0001-0000000098.PMC2873783.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3743529", "abstract": "Deferasirox is a once-daily, oral iron chelator that is widely used in the management of patients with transfusional hemosiderosis. Several Phase II trials along with their respective extension studies as well as a Phase III trial have established the efficacy and safety of this novel agent in transfusion-dependent patients with β-thalassemia, sickle-cell disease and bone marrow-failure syndromes, including myelodysplastic syndrome and aplastic anemia. Data from various clinical trials show that a deferasirox dose of 20 mg/kg/day stabilizes serum ferritin levels and liver iron concentration, while a dose of 30–40 mg/kg/day reduces these parameters and achieves negative iron balance in red cell transfusion-dependent patients with iron overload. Across various pivotal clinical trials, deferasirox was well tolerated, with the most common adverse events being gastrointestinal disturbances, skin rash, nonprogressive increases in serum creatinine, and elevations in liver enzyme levels. Longer-term extension studies have also confirmed the efficacy and safety of deferasirox. However, it is essential that patients on deferasirox therapy are monitored regularly to ensure timely management for any adverse events that may occur with long-term therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/77/jbm-4-101.PMC3743529.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3981198", "abstract": "Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is a common phenomenon among people over 50 years old, and the related clinical expressions are varied. One of our VBD patients presented with brainstem infarction initially, received low molecular weight heparin treatment, and developed rupture of the dolichoectasia segment. Another patient with a similar-sized VBD experienced recurrent brainstem infarction three times over 2 years, despite higher bleeding tendency and long-term antiplatelet treatment. The third patient with a smallersized VBD, had left hemiplegia and received intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator within 3 h, totally recovered with no lesions detected on brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The pathophysiology of VBD is unique, its prevalence and risks of ischemic stroke and intracranial hemorrhage both increase as the degree of arterial dolichoectasia extends, making the strategy of management quite a challenge. The best management of VBD is controlling arterial hypertension and following up with image studies regularly to detect the early extension of VBD degree.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/27/b9/PMC3981198.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3000626", "abstract": "Acupuncture has been widely used in alternative medicine for pain relief but may have many complications due to lack of appropriate cares. Pharmacopuncture is a sort of acupuncture that injects a herbal ingredient through a thin tube for the purpose of combining the effects of the herb and acupuncture and it has many pitfalls. The agents used in pharmacopuncture are not refined for a desired effect and not produced by sterile standard processes under strict medical surveillance. We report a case of a 44-yr-old male patient who had multiple abscesses in the psoas region with fever, right low back and hip pain that began after the pharmacopuncture treatment. This case shows that although pharmacopuncture has been practiced widely, it is important that the appropriate aseptic technique should be used to prevent severe infections and other complications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/49/a0/kjpain-23-270.PMC3000626.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4245856", "abstract": "Candida spp. can lead to infections or even fungal sepsis particularly among immunocompromized individuals. Objective The aim of the present study was to analyze the presence of Candida spp. among patients subjected to orthotopic heart transplantation. Material and Methods Oral rinses from 50 patients subjected to orthotopic heart transplantation, aged 13 to 70 years, 40 males and 10 females, were examined. Sexage-oral conditions matched-control included 50 individuals who were not subjected to any kind of transplantation and were not immunocompromized for any other reason. Counts of yeasts were expressed as median values of logarithm of cfu/mL and were statistically compared by Mann-Whitney’s test. The heart transplant and control groups were compared for the presence of Candida spp. by chi-square test (p<0.05). Results The results showed statistically significant difference (p=0.001) in the prevalence of Candida spp. between the transplantation and control groups. Counts of yeasts (cfu/mL) in the transplanted group were significantly higher than in the control group (p=0.005). Candida albicans was the most prevalent species isolated from both groups. Conclusion It was concluded that Candida yeast counts were higher in the heart transplant recipients than in the controls. There was higher variation of Candida species among the heart transplant patients and the most frequently isolated samples were: Candida albicans, Candida glabrata  and Candida tropicalis. Isolates of Candida dubliniensis was not found in either of the groups.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/66/jaos-19-01-0006.PMC4245856.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649274", "abstract": "We are reporting two cases with similar appearances on post chemo radiotherapy MRI scan of the mucinous adenocarcinoma. There was high signal on T2-weighted sequences of the mucin pools within and beyond the rectal wall. Does this imply that wall tissues become less resistant to cancer pools intrusion after chemo radiation? Does the high intramural pressure have an impact on the protrusion of the cancer pools beyond the muscularis propria? Final histology reports differ from predicted MRI staging. It highlights the difficulty of the final MRI staging and outcome for mucinous adenocarcinomas. The presence of acellular mesothelial reaction, acellular mucin pools and inflammation extending to the serosal surface causes considerable confusion and may result in over staging or under staging of mucinous adenocarcinoma. Pathogenesis and prediction of the mucin lakes behaviour prior and post chemoradiotherapy is unclear and requires future study but may impact surgical management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cf/30/PMC3649274.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5020603", "abstract": "Background Some studies in the literature support the use of either inhaled or systemic steroids for the treatment of chemical pneumonitis; however, no data have been published on the combined use of inhaled and intravenous (IV) steroids. Objectives This brief report describes the effective use of inhaled plus systemic steroids in managing six critical pediatric patients. Patients and Methods Medical records of patients were analyzed retrospectively. Results Of the six patients, 83.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/07/ircmj-18-07-24300.PMC5020603.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3579082", "abstract": "Chondrosarcoma is a very uncommon malignant primary bone tumor, especially, it occurs extremely rare in the spine. A 52-year-old man was admitted to the emergency room with sudden paraplegia. Twelve hours prior to a paraplegic event, he visited an outpatient clinic with discomfort and tenderness around the medial border of the right scapular, and his neurologic status was absolutely intact. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a lobulated soft tissue mass from T3 to T5, which extended to the epidural space. Computed tomography scans showed soft tissue mass on the spinal posterior arch and osteolytic change of the adjacent bony structures. Emergent surgery was performed and the lesion was removed. Dark reddish blood and gel-like material were encountered around the dura and posterior arch during the operation. Multiple pulmonary nodules were found on a chest CT scan and a biopsy of one of them had been proven to be a metastasis of chondrosarcoma. The histologic examination showed dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma. The patient's neurologic deficit was improved slowly from ASIA A to ASIA D. Chondrosarcoma in the spine is extremely rare, even more with acute hemorrhage and sudden expansion into the epidural space. We named it chondrosarcoma apoplexy. We should consider the possibility of a hemorrhagic event when the patient's neurologic deficit worsens suddenly with spinal bone tumor.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/b0/jkns-53-46.PMC3579082.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3334607", "abstract": "As we come to the end of 2011, Genome Biology has asked some members of our Editorial Board for their views on the state of play in genomics. What was their favorite paper of 2011? What are the challenges in their particular research area? Who has had the biggest influence on their careers? What advice would they give to young researchers embarking on a career in research?", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f2/3f/PMC3334607.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5359634", "abstract": "Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the skeletal and dentoalveolar changes after miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) in young adults by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods This retrospective study included 14 patients (mean age, 20.1 years; range, 16–26 years) with maxillary transverse deficiency treated with MARPE. Skeletal and dentoalveolar changes were evaluated using CBCT images acquired before and after expansion. Statistical analyses were performed using paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test according to normality of the data. Results The midpalatal suture was separated, and the maxilla exhibited statistically significant lateral movement (p < 0.05) after MARPE. Some of the landmarks had shifted forwards or upwards by a clinically irrelevant distance of less than 1 mm. The amount of expansion decreased in the superior direction, with values of 5.5, 3.2, 2.0, and 0.8 mm at the crown, cementoenamel junction, maxillary basal bone, and zygomatic arch levels, respectively (p < 0.05). The buccal bone thickness and height of the alveolar crest had decreased by 0.6–1.1 mm and 1.7–2.2 mm, respectively, with the premolars and molars exhibiting buccal tipping of 1.1°–2.9°. Conclusions Our results indicate that MARPE is an effective method for the correction of maxillary transverse deficiency without surgery in young adults.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b4/34/kjod-47-77.PMC5359634.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3299272", "abstract": " Background. Cleft palate is associated with recurrent otitis media with effusion and hearing loss. This study analysed the way these patients' hearing is managed in Alder Hey Children's Hospital. Method. A retrospective audit was carried out on cleft palate patients in Alder Hey Children's Hospital. Audiology assessment and treatment options were reviewed. Comparisons were made between the use of ventilation tubes (VTs) and hearing aids (HAs). The types of cleft, types of hearing loss, and the management output of the audiology regions were also reviewed. Results. The audiology assessments of 254 patients were examined. The incidence of VT insertion in this group of patients was 18.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8e/c3/PMC3299272.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5016740", "abstract": "Acquired factor VIII deficiency (acquired hemophilia A) is a rare condition characterized by the acquisition of autoantibodies that affect the clotting activity of factor VIII (fVIII). The most common manifestation in affected patients is a hemorrhagic diathesis. This disorder is associated with autoimmune diseases, pregnancy, postpartum period, drugs, and malignancy. Management of this condition begins with attempts to arrest an acute bleed based on the site and severity of bleeding and inhibitor titer. The next priority is eradication of the fVIII antibodies using immunosuppressive therapies. We report the case of a 66-year-old male who presented with spontaneous right thigh hematoma with prolonged activated partial prothrombin time and normal prothrombin time. Mixing studies confirmed the presence of an inhibitor. Further investigation for the underlying etiology of acquired hemophilia A leads to diagnosis of prostate cancer. Treatment consisted of bypassing agents including activated factor VII and activated prothrombin plasma concentrate to arrest the bleeding. Steroids and cyclophosphamide were added to suppress the fVIII inhibitors. Concomitant treatment of locally advanced prostate cancer with chemotherapy confirmed the eradication of the inhibitors. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of prostate cancer diagnosed and treated simultaneously with acquired hemophilia A resulting in favorable patient outcome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a8/c2/JCHIMP-6-32461.PMC5016740.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4487933", "abstract": "Chemerin15 (C15), an endogenous anti-inflammatory component, inhibits the activity of neutrophils and macrophages through G protein-coupled receptor ChemR23; however, its role as well as functional mechanism in mouse myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury remains unknown. Methods. Sham or I/R operations were performed on C57BL/6J mice. The I/R mice received an injection of C15 immediately before reperfusion. Serum troponin T levels, infarct size, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and infiltration of neutrophils were assessed 24 h after reperfusion, while the macrophage phenotypes, macrophage infiltration, and inflammatory cytokine levels were assessed 48 h after reperfusion. Results. Compared with the control group, the C15-treated mice showed an obvious amelioration of I/R injury and displayed less ROS, accompanied by reduced neutrophil recruitment. C15 decreased the tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α and interleukin- (IL-) 6 levels and increased the IL-10 levels in the serum of the I/R mice, which suggested a suppressed inflammatory response that could be related to elevated alternatively activated M2 macrophages with characteristic skewed expression of M2 markers and inhibition of classically activated M1 marker expression. Conclusion. C15 may induce alternatively activated M2 macrophage polarization and suppress the inflammatory response to protect against myocardial I/R injury in mice.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/68/69/PMC4487933.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4329520", "abstract": "C57BL/6N inbred mice are used as the genetic background for producing knockout mice in large-scale projects worldwide; however, the genetic divergence among C57BL/6N-derived substrains has not been verified. Here, we identified novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) specific to the C57BL/6NJ strain and selected useful SNPs for the genetic monitoring of C57BL/6N-derived substrains. Informative SNPs were selected from the public SNP database at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute by comparing sequence data from C57BL/6NJ and C57BL/6J mice. A total of 1,361 candidate SNPs from the SNP database could distinguish the C57BL/6NJ strain from 12 other inbred strains. We confirmed 277 C57BL/6NJ-specific SNPs including 10 nonsynonymous SNPs by direct sequencing, and selected 100 useful SNPs that cover all of the chromosomes except Y. Genotyping of 11 C57BL/6N-derived substrains at these 100 SNP loci demonstrated genetic differences among the substrains. This information will be useful for accurate genetic monitoring of mouse strains with a C57BL/6N-derived background.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f2/eb/expanim-64-091.PMC4329520.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5088270", "abstract": " Objective. Endothelial dysfunction plays a key role in atherosclerotic disease. Several methods have been reported to be useful for evaluating the endothelial dysfunction, and we investigated the endothelial dysfunction in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) using peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT) test in this study. Furthermore, we examined the factors significantly correlated with PAT test. Methods. We performed PAT tests in 67 patients with PAD. In addition, we recorded the patients' demographics, including comorbidities, and hemodynamical status, such as ankle brachial pressure index (ABI). Results. In a univariate analysis, the ABI value (r = 0.271, P = 0.029) and a history of cerebrovascular disease (r = 0.208, P = 0.143) were found to significantly correlate with PAT test, which calculated the reactive hyperemia index (RHI). In a multivariate analysis, only the ABI value significantly and independently correlated with RHI (β = 0.254, P = 0.041). Conclusion. This study showed a significant correlation between RHI and ABI. The PAT test is a useful tool for evaluating not only endothelial dysfunction but also the hemodynamical state in patients with PAD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4a/0b/PMC5088270.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4432384", "abstract": "Reports of spontaneous spinal chronic subdural hematoma (SDH) are extremely rare. In the limited cases reported, the origin, symptoms and treatments are diversely revealed. Therefore accurate diagnoses and proper treatments are difficult to determine. We report a 74-year-old male presented with severe low back pain and both buttocks pain. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a diffuse subdural infiltrating mass compress nerve roots at the level of L2-S2. Emergency operation for decompression and excision of mass revealed spinal chronic SDH. His pain was subsided after the operation. We report a rare case of idiopathic lumbosacral spinal chronic SDH and discuss various causes and treatments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c5/75/kjs-9-41.PMC4432384.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3292205", "abstract": "School health programmes as a platform to deliver high-impact health interventions are currently underrated by decision makers and do not get adequate attention from the international public health community. We describe the award-winning Fit for School Approach from the Philippines as an example of a large-scale, integrated, cost-effective and evidence-based programme that bridges the gap between sectors, and between evidence and practice. In view of the challenges to achieve the health and education related Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in many countries, intensified efforts are required. We present the Fit for School Action Framework as a realistic and tested approach that helps to make schools places of public health for children and wider communities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/0b/GHA-5-14870.PMC3292205.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2698183", "abstract": "This study evaluated the value of procalcitonin (PCT) levels in pleural effusion to differentiate the etiology of parapneumonic effusion (PPE). Forty-one consecutive PPE patients were enrolled and were divided into bacterial and non-bacterial PPE. Blood and pleural effusion samples were collected for PCT measurement on admission and analyzed for diagnostic evaluation. PCT of pleural fluid was significantly increased in the bacterial PPE group (0.24 ng/mL) compared to the non-bacterial PPE group (0.09 ng/mL), but there was no significant difference for serum PCT. A PCT concentration of pleural fluid >0.174 ng/mL (best cut-off value) was considered positive for a diagnosis of bacterial PPE (sensitivity, 80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/07/8d/jkms-24-398.PMC2698183.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3870826", "abstract": "Background Tumor irradiation blocks local angiogenesis, forcing any recurrent tumor to form new vessels from circulating cells. We have previously demonstrated that the post-irradiation recurrence of human glioblastomas in the brains of nude mice can be delayed or prevented by inhibiting circulating blood vessel–forming cells by blocking the interaction of CXCR4 with its ligand stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)–1 (CXCL12). In the present study we test this strategy by directly neutralizing SDF-1 in a clinically relevant model using autochthonous brain tumors in immune competent hosts. Methods We used NOX-A12, an l-enantiomeric RNA oligonucleotide that binds and inhibits SDF-1 with high affinity. We tested the effect of this inhibitor on the response to irradiation of brain tumors in rat induced by n-ethyl-N-nitrosourea. Results Rats treated in utero with N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea began to die of brain tumors from approximately 120 days of age. We delivered a single dose of whole brain irradiation (20 Gy) on day 115 of age, began treatment with NOX-A12 immediately following irradiation, and continued with either 5 or 20 mg/kg for 4 or 8 weeks, doses and times equivalent to well-tolerated human exposures. We found a marked prolongation of rat life span that was dependent on both drug dose and duration of treatment. In addition we treated tumors only when they were visible by MRI and demonstrated complete regression of the tumors that was not achieved by irradiation alone or with the addition of temozolomide. Conclusions Inhibition of SDF-1 following tumor irradiation is a powerful way of improving tumor response of glioblastoma multiforme.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/4c/not149.PMC3870826.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3163396", "abstract": "HNP-1 is an antimicrobial peptide that undergoes proteolytic cleavage to become a mature peptide. This process represents the mechanism commonly used by the cells to obtain a fully active antimicrobial peptide. In addition, it has been recently described that HNP-1 is recognized as substrate by the arginine-specific ADP-ribosyltransferase-1. Arginine-specific mono-ADP-ribosylation is an enzyme-catalyzed post-translational modification in which NAD+ serves as donor of the ADP-ribose moiety, which is transferred to the guanidino group of arginines in target proteins. While the arginine carries one positive charge, the ADP-ribose is negatively charged at the phosphate moieties at physiological pH. Therefore, the attachment of one or more ADP-ribose units results in a marked change of cationicity. ADP-ribosylation of HNP-1 drastically reduces its cytotoxic and antibacterial activities. While the chemotactic activity of HNP-1 remains unaltered, its ability to induce interleukin-8 production is enhanced. The arginine 14 of HNP-1 modified by the ADP-ribose is in some cases processed into ornithine, perhaps representing a different modality in the regulation of HNP-1 activities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/da/51/PMC3163396.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3223715", "abstract": "A 56-year-old man presented with anterior chamber inflammation, increased intraocular pressure, peripheral retinal infiltration, and generalized retinal arterial obstruction suggesting acute retinal necrosis five months after intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection (IVTA). He was treated with intravenous antiviral agents and aspirin. Shortly after treatment, retinal infiltrations were resolved, and partial recanalization of the obstructed vessel was observed. Viral retinitis may occur as an opportunistic infection following IVTA due to the local immune modulatory effect of the steroid; hence, close observation following IVTA is necessary.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7b/8c/kjo-25-451.PMC3223715.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3101605", "abstract": "Accumulating evidence indicates a functional crosstalk between the HER2 (ErbB2) tyrosine kinase and the TGF-β signaling mediated by its serine/threonine kinase receptors. In HER2-overexpressing breast cancer, this crosstalk results in increased cancer cell proliferation, survival and invasion, accelerated cancer progression and metastasis in animal models, and resistance to chemotherapy and HER2-targeted therapy. The transformed cellular context with constitutively active HER2 signaling, as a consequence of HER2 gene amplification or overexpression, converts TGF-β from a tumor suppressor to a malignancy-promoting factor. TGF-β, in turn, potentiates oncogenic HER2 signaling by inducing shedding of the ErbB ligands and clustering of HER2 with integrins. In addition, TGF-β is associated with resistance to trastuzumab, an anti-HER2 therapeutic antibody. Recent mechanistic studies indicate that TGF-β and HER2 cooperate through both Smad-dependent and independent mechanisms. Blockade of HER2:TGF-β crosstalk may significantly enhance the efficiency of conventional therapies in breast cancer patients with HER2 overexpression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f9/84/PMC3101605.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4402416", "abstract": "Background: Fungal rhino sinusitis (FRS) is an important infection of para nasal sinuses, which encompasses two main categories; invasive and noninvasive forms according to histopathological findings. Aspergillus spp are the most common species isolated from noninvasive form, while Mucorales are more frequently isolates from acute infections. Methods: Four hundred fifty patients suspected to fungal rhino sinusitis were investigated in a cross-sectional prospective study from June 2009 to Sep 2013. All patients under went endoscopic sinus surgery of the middle meatus. Tissue biopsies were investigated for culture, histopathology and molecular examination. Results: Totally, 87 patients were diagnosed with fungal rhinosinusitis. A. flavus was the most common etiological agent of chronic invasive form (CIFRS), allergic fungal rhino sinusitis (AFRS) and fungus ball (FB), while Rhizopus oryze (26.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/26/PMC4402416.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2427354", "abstract": "The M protein of Streptococcus equi subsp. equi known as fibrinogen-binding protein (FgBP) is a cell wall-associated protein with antiphagocytic activity that binds IgG. Recombinant versions of the seven equine IgG subclasses were used to investigate the subclass specificity of FgBP. FgBP bound predominantly to equine IgG4 and IgG7, with little or no binding to the other subclasses. Competitive binding experiments revealed that FgBP could inhibit the binding of staphylococcal protein A and streptococcal protein G to both IgG4 and IgG7, implicating the Fc interdomain region in binding to FgBP. To identify which of the two IgG Fc domains contributed to the interaction with FgBP, we tested two human IgG1/IgA1 domain swap mutants and found that both domains are required for full binding, with the CH3 domain playing a critical role. The binding site for FgBP was further localized using recombinant equine IgG7 antibodies with single or double point mutations to residues lying at the CH2-CH3 interface. We found that interaction of FgBP with equine IgG4 and IgG7 was able to disrupt C1q binding and antibody-mediated activation of the classical complement pathway, demonstrating an effective means by which S. equi may evade the immune response. The mode of interaction of FgBP with IgG fits a common theme for bacterial Ig-binding proteins. Remarkably, for those interactions studied in detail, it emerges that all the Ig-binding proteins target the CH2-CH3 domain interface, regardless of specificity for IgG or IgA, streptococcal or staphylococcal origin, or host species (equine or human).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/8a/17615.PMC2427354.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5054263", "abstract": "Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which we can recognize destruction of the myelin that is around nerve cells of brain and spinal cord called as oligodendrocytes. Both genetic and environmental factors play roles in MS. One of these genes is the killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) which expressed on surface of natural killer cells (NKs). These genes have loci (not locus) in human genome, so they inherit as haplotypes. The results of previous studies show that different genes of KIR may affect both susceptibility and resistance to such autoimmune disorders that their pathogenesis in MS is still unclear. Since NKs play key roles in immune tolerance, we intend to perform a meta-analysis for the correlation of KIR genes and MS. We used the software comprehensive meta-analysis for data of totally 568 MS patients and 280 controls. Among the 14 genes of KIR in the human genome, lack of KIR2DS1 is accompanied by MS. No KIR gene found to be a risk factor for MS. Further studies on other molecules of NKs like CD94 and NKG2a is suggested.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4c/e1/main.PMC5054263.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4817534", "abstract": "Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a hormone that is mainly secreted by osteocytes and osteoblasts in bone. The critical role of FGF23 in mineral ion homeostasis was first identified in human genetic and acquired rachitic diseases and has been further characterised in animal models. Recent studies have revealed that the levels of FGF23 increase significantly at the very early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may play a critical role in mineral ion disorders and bone metabolism in these patients. Our recent publications have also shown that FGF23 and its cofactor, Klotho, may play an independent role in directly regulating bone mineralisation instead of producing a systematic effect. In this review, we will discuss the new role of FGF23 in bone mineralisation and the pathophysiology of CKD-related bone disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/8d/ijos20151a.PMC4817534.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2808615", "abstract": "Most colonic multiple mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphomas are confirmed with a histologic and immunohistochemical staining of the mucosal biopsy specimen obtained during colonoscopic examinations. Endoscopically, colonic MALT lymphomas frequently appear as protruding and/or ulcerative lesions, and there are not so many reports of colonic MALT lymphoma as compared to the frequent reports of MALT lymphoma of stomach. We report a unique case of colonic MALT lymphoma presenting as a simple reddish discoloration of mucosa; this presentation has never been describe before. Our patient was a 47-yr-old male who suffered from tenesmus and mucoid stool. A colonoscopy was accomplished, followed by a histologic examination and we diagnosed a colonic MALT lymphoma. Staging of the disease was done because this was necessary for choosing the modality of treatments. The patient was then treated with polychemotherapy in conjunction with radiation therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ee/15/jkms-20-325.PMC2808615.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4954890", "abstract": "We report a case of acute ischemic stroke involving both the anterior and posterior circulation associated with a persistent primitive trigeminal artery (PPTA), treated by endovascular revascularization for acute basilar artery (BA) occlusion via the PPTA. An otherwise healthy 67-year-old man experienced sudden loss of consciousness and quadriplegia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an extensive acute infarction in the right cerebral hemisphere, and magnetic resonance angiography showed occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery (MCA) and BA. Because the volume of infarction in the territory of the right MCA was extensive, we judged the use of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator to be contraindicated. Cerebral angiography revealed hypoplasia of both vertebral arteries and the presence of a PPTA from the right internal carotid artery. A microcatheter was introduced into the BA via the PPTA and revascularization was successfully performed using a Merci Retriever with adjuvant low-dose intraarterial urokinase. After treatment, his consciousness level and right motor weakness improved. Although persistent carotid-vertebrobasilar anastomoses such as a PPTA are relatively rare vascular anomalies, if the persistent primitive artery is present, it can be an access route for mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/e8/jkns-59-400.PMC4954890.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4513178", "abstract": "Spinal intramedullary tuberculoma remains a very rare entity of central nervous system tuberculosis. This is the same with the coexistence of spinal intramedullary and intracranial tuberculomas that remains extremely rare with less than 20 cases reported at present. Authors describe this uncommon case by analyzing a 65-year-old female patient who had past history of kidney transplantation due to stage 5 chronic kidney disease and pulmonary tuberculosis on medication. The patient experiences progressive paraplegia and numbness on both lower extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an intramedullary mass at T9-10 level and multiple intracranial enhancing nodules. Microsurgical resection of spinal intramedullary mass was performed and the lesion was histopathologically confirmed as Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Efficient diagnosis and management of this rare disease are reviewed along with previously reported cases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/d0/kjs-12-99.PMC4513178.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4349876", "abstract": "Purpose: Somatostatin is a peptide with a potent and broad antisecretory action, which makes it an invaluable drug target for the pharmacological management of pituitary adenomas and neuroendocrine tumors. Furthermore, somatostatin (SST) receptors (SSTR1, 2A and B, 3, 4 and 5) belong to the G protein coupled receptor family and are overexpressed in tumors. Since, human small-cell lung cancer overexpresses somatostatin receptors (STTR), they could be legitimate targets for treating SCLC.The aim of this study was the evaluation of cytotoxicity of somatostatin in combination with several anticancer drugs in HTB-175 cell line (Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell line that expresses neuron specific enolase).  Methods: Docetaxel, Paclitaxel, Carboplatin, Cisplatin, Etoposide, Gemzar, Navelbine, Fluorouracil, Farmorubicin are the chemotherapeutic drugs that we used for the combination before and after adding somatostatin in SCLC cell culture. HTB-175 cell line was purchased from ATCC LGC Standards.At indicated time-point, 48h after the combination, cell viability and apoptosis were measured with Annexin V staining by flow cytometry. Results: Flow cytometry showed that Docetaxel, Paclitaxel, Gemzar and Cisplatin induced apoptosis more when they were added before somatostatin, whereas etoposide induced apoptosis more after somatostatin treatment. Navelbine alone or in combination with somatostatin showed no differences in apoptosis. Farmorubicin showed equal toxicity in all combinations. Fluorouracil and Carboplatin induced apoptosis more when added alone in HTB-175 cell line. However, increased apoptosis was also observed when Carboplatin was administered before somatostatin in higher concentrations. Conclusion: Our results indicated that depending on the drug, somatostatin treatment before or after chemotherapeutic drugs increased apoptosis in small cell lung cancer cells. We suggest that long acting somatostatin analogues could be used as additive and maintenance therapy in combination to antineoplastic agents in SCLC patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/80/b2/PMC4349876.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4548403", "abstract": "Background: Although studies focused mainly on the identification of periopathogenic bacteria, recent reports have suggested that various herpes viruses may also be involved in the occurrence and progression of different forms of periodontal diseases. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the prevalence and load of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in subgingival tissue specimens between chronic periodontitis and healthy sites. Patients and Methods: A total of 60 samples from the systematically healthy patients with chronic periodontitis participated in this study (mean age, 35 ± 7). Clinical periodontal evaluation included the plaque index (PI) (Loe and Silness), bleeding on probing (BOP) (O’Leary), bleeding index, periodontal pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level measurement. Tissue specimens harvested from > 6 mm periodontal pockets and from ≤ 3 mm sulcus depth in a quadrant of the same patient using periodontal curettes. Moreover, the unstimulated whole saliva was gathered as a shedding medium. A Taq-man Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction assay was used to identify genomic copies of periodontal HCMV and EBV. Data were analyzed by the Wilcoxon-signed ranks and Friedman tests using the SPSS 16 software. Results: Out of 60 samples of subgingival tissues taken from the patients with chronic periodontitis, EBV count was the highest in saliva and the least in the tissue sample with PD < 3 mm (P < 0.05). The highest HCMV count was in saliva and tissue samples with PD > 6 mm (P < 0.05). Conclusions: According to the results of this study, quantification of HCMV and EBV observed in this study is high in periodontal tissue samples of severe chronic periodontitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/d6/jjm-08-06-18691.PMC4548403.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4302382", "abstract": " Aim. To report on the use of indocyanine green (ICG) during surgical removal of pediatric orbital lacrimal duct cysts. Method. We conducted a retrospective review of our cases of surgical excision of orbital lacrimal duct cysts using intraoperative injection of indocyanine green (ICG), which was used following inadvertent cyst rupture and volume loss. The dye allowed complete cyst visualization and complete excision despite volume loss or cyst rupture. Results. The study included 6 children (3 boys, mean age of 4.2 ± 0.84 years, range 3–5 years). Mean follow-up period was 9.3 months. All cysts were located in the inferonasal quadrant of the orbit (4 in the right side). In all cases, ICG was injected into the cyst at the time of surgery following unintentional cyst rupture. After the dye injection, it was easy to identify the borders of the cyst, permitting complete cyst removal, without any intra- or postoperative complications. Pathological examination revealed that all cysts were of lacrimal duct origin. Conclusion. Intraoperative injection of ICG into orbital cysts in children can aid surgeons in identifying cyst borders following inadvertent rupture, allowing complete removal.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fd/8a/PMC4302382.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4678781", "abstract": "Purpose To investigate the utility of opposed-phase magnetic resonance imaging (OP MRI) in differentiating malignant from benign bone lesions. Materials and methods MRI scans of musculoskeletal lesions including opposed-phase imaging sequences were reviewed by both an experienced musculoskeletal attending radiologist, and a second year radiology resident. The change in signal from IP to OP images was measured. The reviewers' evaluation of the lesions based on T1 and T2-weighted images was compared to their evaluation with inclusion of the OP sequences. Results Twenty-seven lesions in bone were analyzed: 4 malignant primary bone lesions, 3 malignant soft tissue lesions to bone, 3 metastases from visceral malignancies, and 17 benign bone lesions. Benign lesions of bone dropped in signal on OP imaging by an average of 37.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0b/87/main.PMC4678781.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4461088", "abstract": "We report one case of malignant hypertensive retinopathy as a presenting sign of fetal death in utero. Ophthalmic examination (including intravenous fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography) and obstetric and systemic evaluation were performed, providing a multidisciplinary approach. A 33-year-old overweight woman (body mass index 47 kg/m2) with no systemic or ocular known disease was admitted to our emergency department with a one-week history of bilateral vision loss and no systemic complaints. On examination, best corrected visual acuity was 1/10 in the right eye and 1/10 in the left eye. Anterior segment examination of both eyes was unremarkable. Ophthalmoscopic fundus findings included bilateral optic disc edema, diffuse cotton wool spots, intraretinal exudates, retinal hemorrhages, and multiple serous retinal detachments involving both maculae. Physical examination revealed a blood pressure of 220/110 mmHg. Further systemic workup revealed a previously unknown 35-week pregnancy with a dead fetus. An emergency cesarean section was performed. Pre-eclampsia is a life-threatening disorder for both mother and fetus. This case highlights the need to rule out pre-eclampsia in all women of childbearing age presenting with ocular signs of malignant hypertension, even without external signs of pregnancy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/74/opth-9-971.PMC4461088.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4948167", "abstract": "Objectives: Exclusive breast feeding (EBF) uptake in Zimbabwe is very low. Given that EBF is a physiological process which transpires in a specific socio-economic milieu, this study investigates the socio-economic factors militating against its uptake. Methods: The study used a mixed research methodology. The concurrent nested model of mixed methods was utilized using one data collection phase, during which both quantitative and qualitative data were collected simultaneously. Results: The research noted that factors such as low education, low income, gender inequalities, social influence, and traditional practices were hindering the uptake of exclusive breast feeding. Conclusions and Global Health Implications: The study envisages that it is pertinent for infant feeding programs to address socio-economic barriers to EBF in order to influence a positive uptake. The potential interventions include increasing men’s involvement, raising awareness on EBF, and strengthening the Village Health Worker Program.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/77/IJMA-3-16.PMC4948167.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4852669", "abstract": "Background: Single-fiber electromyography (SFEMG) has been suggested as a quantitative method for supporting chronic partial denervation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by the revised EI Escorial criteria. Although concentric needle (CN) electrodes have been used to assess jitter in myasthenia gravis patients and healthy controls, there are few reports using CN electrodes to assess motor unit instability and denervation in neurogenic diseases. The aim of this study was to determine whether quantitative changes in jitter and spike number using CN electrodes could be used for ALS studies. Methods: Twenty-seven healthy controls and 23 ALS patients were studied using both CN and single-fiber needle (SFN) electrodes on the extensor digitorum communis muscle with an SFEMG program. The SFN-jitter and SFN-fiber density data were measured using SFN electrodes. The CN-jitter and spike number were measured using CN electrodes. Results: The mean CN-jitter was significantly increased in ALS patients (47.3 ± 17.0 μs) than in healthy controls (27.4 ± 3.3 μs) (P < 0.001). Besides, the mean spike number was significantly increased in ALS patients (2.5 ± 0.5) than in healthy controls (1.7 ± 0.3) (P < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of ALS were 82.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/22/CMJ-129-1036.PMC4852669.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3328981", "abstract": "Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in males is rare and usually presents with symptoms on the affected side, such as, palpable mass or bloody nipple discharge. Even as DCIS has been reported in conjunction with gynecomastia in the same breast, we report an unusual case of a 62-year-old Caucasian male, with no family history of breast cancer, who presented with symptomatic side gynecomastia, and was incidentally found to have DCIS in a completely asymptomatic left breast. To the best of our knowledge, this case is the first report in literature of asymptomatic, incidentally discovered DCIS in a male patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/51/80/JCIS-2-9.PMC3328981.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4838811", "abstract": "Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide. Majority of patients with HCC are diagnosed in the advanced stages of disease and hence they are only suitable for palliative therapy. TACE (transarterial chemoembolization) is the most commonly used treatment for unresectable HCC. It is however unclear if TACE improves the quality of life (QoL) in patients with HCC. The aim of this review is to evaluate the impact of TACE on QoL of HCC patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ef/90/PMC4838811.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4755998", "abstract": "[Purpose] To investigate the effects of thoracic manipulation and deep craniocervical flexor training on the muscle strength and endurance, range of motion, and the disability index of the neck of patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain. [Subjects and Methods] Forty-six patients with chronic neck pain participated. They received an intervention for 35 minutes a day, three times a week for 10 weeks. Subjects were randomly assigned to one control and two experimental groups: group A (thoracic manipulation combined with deep craniocervical flexor training, n=16), group B (deep craniocervical flexor training, n=15), and group C (active self-exercise as a control group, n=15). Muscle strength and endurance, pain, neck disability index, and range of motion of the cervical and thoracic spine were measured before and after the intervention. [Results] Group A showed significant increases in muscle strength, endurance, and cervical and thoracic range of motion, and significant decreases in the pain and neck disability index, compared with groups B and C. [Conclusion] Although deep craniocervical flexor training is effective at improving neck function, thoracic manipulation combined with deep craniocervical flexor training was a more effective intervention for pain relief and improving the range of motion, muscle function, and neck disability of patients with nonspecific chronic neck pain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/24/jpts-28-175.PMC4755998.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3310096", "abstract": "We report a case of type F botulism in a patient with bilateral but asymmetric neurologic deficits. Cranial nerve demyelination was found during autopsy. Bilateral, asymmetric clinical signs, although rare, do not rule out botulism. Demyelination of cranial nerves might be underrecognized during autopsy of botulism patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ba/46/PMC3310096.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3476906", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To estimate the health utility scores associated with type 2 diabetes, its treatments, complications, and comorbidities. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We analyzed health-related quality-of-life data, collected at baseline during Translating Research Into Action for Diabetes, a multicenter, prospective, observational study of diabetes care in managed care, for 7,327 individuals with type 2 diabetes. We measured quality-of-life using the EuroQol (EQ)-5D, a standardized instrument for which 1.00 indicates perfect health. We used multivariable regression to estimate the independent impact of demographic characteristics, diabetes treatments, complications, and comorbidities on health-related quality-of-life. RESULTS The mean EQ-5D–derived health utility score for those individuals with diabetes was 0.80. The modeled utility score for a nonobese, non–insulin-treated, non-Asian, non-Hispanic man with type 2 diabetes, with an annual household income of more than 40,000, and with no diabetes complications, risk factors for cardiovascular disease, or comorbidities, was 0.92. Being a woman, being obese, smoking, and having a lower household income were associated with lower utility scores. Arranging complications from least to most severe according to the reduction in health utility scores resulted in the following order: peripheral vascular disease, other heart diseases, transient ischemic attack, cerebral vascular accident, nonpainful diabetic neuropathy, congestive heart failure, dialysis, hemiplegia, painful neuropathy, and amputation. CONCLUSIONS Major diabetes complications and comorbidities are associated with decreased health-related quality-of-life. Utility estimates from our study can be used to assess the impact of diabetes on quality-of-life and conduct cost-utility analyses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f6/ca/2250.PMC3476906.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3037502", "abstract": "Purpose The effect of neoadjuvant hormonal therapy (NHT) on radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) for prostate cancer is various and remains a controversy for urologists. We conducted this study to comparatively evaluate whether NHT before RRP is indicated and beneficial in the aspects of postoperative complications, positive surgical margin, and biochemical recurrence. Materials and Methods Between September 2006 and December 2009, 69 men were scheduled for RRP as a treatment for clinically localized and locally advanced prostate cancer and were divided into two groups. Group 1 (n=31, 44.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ed/5f/kju-52-19.PMC3037502.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5355746", "abstract": "Schizophrenia (SZ) and cancer (Ca) have a broad spectrum of clinical phenotypes and a complex biological background, implicating a large number of genetic and epigenetic factors. SZ is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder signified by an increase in the expression of apoptotic molecular signals, whereas Ca is conversely characterized by an increase in appropriate molecular signaling that stimulates uncontrolled cell proliferation. The rather low risk of developing Ca in patients suffering from SZ is a hypothesis that is still under debate. Recent evidence has indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs), a large group of small non-coding oligonoucleotides, may play a significant role in the development of Ca and major psychiatric disorders, such as SZ, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorders, suicidality and depression, through their interference with the expression of multiple genes. For instance, the possible role of let-7, miR-98 and miR-183 as biomarkers for Ca and SZ was investigated in our previous research studies. Therefore, further investigations on the expression profiles of these regulatory, small RNA molecules and the molecular pathways through which they exert their control may provide a plausible explanation as to whether there is a correlation between psychiatric disorders and low risk of developing Ca.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/18/mmr-14-06-4942.PMC5355746.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3446191", "abstract": "Background The incidence of aberrant thymus in the posterior mediastinum is very uncommon. It is difficult to exclude malignancy before surgical procedure. Case Presentation In a six-month-old male coughing for two weeks prior to admission a posterior mediastinal mass was found incidentally by chest roentgenogram. Thoracotomy was performed. Histologic study revealed normal thymic tissue. Conclusion When a mass located in the posterior mediastinum, ectopic thymus should be included in differential diagnosis. Imaging techniques may spare thoracotomy. Ectopic thymus has a benign clinical course, and surgical resection is not recommended.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/89/IJPD-21-404.PMC3446191.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4898338", "abstract": "A 34-year-old female hemodialysis patient with an abnormal whole parathyroid hormone (PTH)/intact PTH ratio (ratio = 1.14) underwent parathyroidectomy for advanced secondary hyperparathyroidism. The abnormal PTH ratio indicated a relative increase in the serum N-terminus PTH, a new molecular form of PTH. The abnormal ratio normalized immediately after the largest parathyroid gland (PTG) was removed, proving the largest PTG as causative. An immunohistochemical analysis revealed extremely decreased expression of the calcium-sensing receptor and parafibromin in the largest PTG in comparison with the other PTGs. This case indicated the possible involvement of decreased calcium-sensing receptor and parafibromin signaling in the development of the abnormal PTH ratio.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/74/sft061.PMC4898338.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4356895", "abstract": "The purpose of this investigation was to explore the epidemiology, clinical history and microbiology of peritonsillar abscess (PTA). A retrospective review of PTA cases treated at the Department of Otolaryngology, Regional Specialist Hospital in Radom, Poland between 1st October 2003 and 30th September 2013 was undertaken. A total of 111 PTA patients were admitted. The study population consisted of 57.7 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/88/PMC4356895.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4764968", "abstract": "A uterocutaneous fistula is a rare clinical presentation that occurs following Cesarean section and other pelvic operations. There are only a few reports discussing the treatments. We describe a patient with successful surgical management and review the literature. A 25-year-old woman referred to our department 13 months after her first Cesarean section. She had a history of an abdominal mass and collection 2 months after surgery and some fistula opening with discharge from her previous incision. She had a previous surgical operation and antibiotic therapy without complete response. We performed fistulography to evaluate the tracts. In the operation — she had fistula tracts, one of which was between the uterus and skin. We debrided the necrotic tissue in the uterus, excised the fistula tracts, and drained the uterine cavity. At 8 months’ postoperative follow-up, she had no recurrence. A uterocutaneous fistula is a rare condition with many causes and needs proper investigation and timely medical and surgical management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/78/46/IJMS-41-157.PMC4764968.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4986770", "abstract": "Purpose In the development of diabetic retinopathy, retinal mitochondria become dysfunctional, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is damaged. Because retinopathy is a progressive disease, and circulating glucose levels are high in diabetes, our aim was to investigate if peripheral blood mtDNA damage can serve as a potential biomarker of diabetic retinopathy. Methods Peripheral blood mtDNA damage was investigated by extended-length PCR in rats and mice, diabetic for 10 to 12 months (streptozotocin-induced, type 1 model), and in 12- and 40-week-old Zucker diabetic fatty rats (ZDF, type 2). Mitochondrial copy number (in gDNA) and transcription (in cDNA) were quantified by qPCR. Similar parameters were measured in blood from diabetic patients with/without retinopathy. Results Peripheral blood from diabetic rodents had significantly increased mtDNA damage and decreased copy numbers and transcription. Lipoic acid administration in diabetic rats, or Sod2 overexpression or MMP-9 knockdown in mice, the therapies that prevent diabetic retinopathy, also ameliorated blood mtDNA damage and restored copy numbers and transcription. Although blood from 40-week-old ZDF rats had significant mtDNA damage, 12-week-old rats had normal mtDNA. Diabetic patients with retinopathy had increased blood mtDNA damage, and decreased transcription and copy numbers compared with diabetic patients without retinopathy and nondiabetic individuals. Conclusions Type 1 diabetic rodents with oxidative stress modulated by pharmacologic/genetic means, and type 2 animal model and patients with/without diabetic retinopathy, demonstrate a strong relation between peripheral blood mtDNA damage and diabetic retinopathy, and suggest the possibility of use of peripheral blood mtDNA as a noninvasive biomarker of diabetic retinopathy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/02/i1552-5783-57-10-4035.PMC4986770.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4105946", "abstract": "Spinal cord infarction (SCI) is an uncommon but important cause of acute myelopathy. Nevertheless, contrary to cerebral stroke, the discussion about paradoxical embolism as a cause of cryptogenic SCI remains dubious. We describe the case of a 24-year-old woman who developed sudden-onset back pain followed by upper limb paralysis. T2-weighted MRI demonstrated hyperintense signal, extending from C5 to D1 with corresponding restricted diffusion on diffusion-weighted MRI and reduction of the apparent diffusion coefficient. Diagnostic workup, including lumbar puncture, showed no changes. Transcranial Doppler showed a right-to-left shunt with an uncountable number of microembolic signals after Valsalva maneuvers, and a patent foramen ovale (PFO) with an atrial septum aneurysm was identified. We discuss the paucity of evidence of right-to-left shunting in spinal diseases compared to cerebral events and the potential role of paradoxical embolism through PFO as a possible mechanism of SCI.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/16/e8/crn-0006-0188.PMC4105946.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4135371", "abstract": "Myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma (MIFS) is a rare low-grade, malignant soft tissue tumor that is usually observed in the extremities of adult patients. Magnetic resonance imaging findings for this tumor type have rarely been reported. We report a case involving the distal left femur of a middle-aged man and tumoral invasion of the bone, which, to our knowledge, has been previously described only once. He was treated with distal femoral tumor resection and reconstruction with a modular prosthesis. Histopathologic diagnosis confirmed MIFS. We reviewed literature of the diagnostic imaging and bone invasion findings associated with this tumor type.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/9a/cjc-33-08-406.PMC4135371.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2837303", "abstract": "Gastric cancers are the second most common malignancy in the world and represent a major burden to all societies even though the incidence of disease is decreasing in the industrialized world. The aetiology of the disease is complex and is believed to be primarily due to environmental factors but a small proportion of cases are recognised as being associated with genetic factors. Two inherited forms of stomach cancer have been identified, one which is associated with familial clusterings of stomach cancer and the other being a subgroup of families that belong to hereditary non polyposis colorectal cancer (or Lynch syndrome). In this report we present a small nuclear family which is unusual in that there is a clustering of malignancy which includes stomach cancer, colorectal cancer and chordoma. Genetic analysis failed to reveal any causative mutation in genes associated with HNPCC or in E-cadherin. Together, the clinical picture in this family may indicate that other genetic factors are behind this family's clustering of malignancy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/15/PMC2837303.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5301059", "abstract": "Background: Pain resulting from muscle cramps is one of the most common outcomes of hemodialysis. One of the mechanisms associated with muscle cramps is unnatural muscle metabolism. Because acupressure improves muscle metabolism through the releasing of energy, this study was performed with the purpose of determining the impact of acupressure on muscle cramps. Materials and Methods: This study was a single-blind clinical trial. Accordingly, 64 patients were selected and intensity and frequency of muscle cramps were determined by randomly categorizing them into two groups. The intervention group received 9 sessions of acupressure and the control group received 9 sessions of placebo intervention. The intervention was performed 15 min before hemodialysis in both groups. In both the groups, average intensity of pain and the frequency pain was compared before, after, and 1 month after completion of the intervention. Results: Data analysis revealed that there were no significant statistical differences between the two groups in terms of mean value of intensity (P = 0.586) and frequency (P = 0.780) of muscle cramps before the intervention. We observed a significant difference after completion of intervention sessions (P < 0.001). Moreover, there were no significant differences between mean value of intensity (P < 0.001) and frequency (P = 0.030) of muscle cramps in the control group before, after, and 1 month after the completion of 9 sessions of placebo intervention. Conclusions: Employing acupressure may result in decrease of muscle cramps in patients undergoing hemodialysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d1/6b/IJNMR-21-557.PMC5301059.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3237016", "abstract": "Previous efforts to improve the efficiency of cellular reprogramming for the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have focused mainly on transcription factors and small molecule combinations. Here, we report the results of our focus instead on the phenotype of the cells targeted for reprogramming. We find that adult mouse pancreatic tissue stem cells derived by the method of suppression of asymmetric cell kinetics (SACK) acquire increased potency simply by culture under conditions for the production and maintenance of pluripotent stem cells. Moreover, supplementation with the SACK agent xanthine, which promotes symmetric self-renewal, significantly increases the efficiency and degree of acquisition of pluripotency properties. In transplantation analyses, clonal reprogrammed pancreatic stem cells produce slow-growing tumors with tissue derivative of all three embryonic germ layers. This acquisition of pluripotency, without transduction with exogenous transcription factors, supports the concept that tissue stem cells are predisposed to cellular reprogramming, particularly when symmetrically self-renewing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ce/a9/PMC3237016.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5058568", "abstract": "Allergic rhinitis is a major chronic respiratory disease and an immunoneuronal disorder. We aimed at providing further knowledge on the function of the neural system in nasal allergic reaction. Here, a method to assess simultaneously the nasal airflow resistance and the underlying function of autonomic nervous system (ANS) is presented and used during the nasal provocation of allergic and nonallergic subjects. Continuous nasal airflow resistance and spectral heart rate variability parameters show in detail the timing and intensity differences in subjects' reactions. After the provocation, the nasal airflow resistance of allergic subjects showed a positive trend, whereas LF/HF (Low Frequency/High Frequency) ratio and LF power showed a negative trend. This could imply a gradual sympathetic withdrawal in allergic subjects after the allergen provocation. The groups differed significantly by these physiological descriptors. The proposed method opens entirely new opportunities to research accurately concomitant changes in nasal breathing function and ANS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/0c/PMC5058568.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3212676", "abstract": "To explore whether market reforms in a health care system affect medical professional ethics of hospital-based specialists on the one hand and physicians in independent practices on the other. Qualitative interviews with 27 surgeons and 28 general practitioners in The Netherlands, held 2–3 years after a major overhaul of the Dutch health care system involving several market reforms. Surgeons now regularly advertise their work (while this was forbidden in the past) and pay more attention to patients with relatively minor afflictions, thus deviating from codes of ethics that oblige physicians to treat each other as brothers and to treat patients according to medical need. Dutch GPs have abandoned their traditional reticence and their fear of medicalization. They now seem to treat more in accordance with patients’ preferences and less in accordance with medical need. Market reforms do affect medical professional principles, and it is doubtful whether these changes were intended when Dutch policy makers decided to introduce market elements in the health care system. Policy makers in other countries considering similar reforms should pay attention to these results.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/b3/10728_2011_Article_166.PMC3212676.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3310646", "abstract": "We tested 259 methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates and 2 USA300 ATCC type strains for susceptibility to bacitracin and neomycin contained in over-the-counter antibacterial ointments. Resistance to both bacitracin and neomycin was found only in USA300. The use of over-the counter antimicrobial drugs may select for the USA300 clone.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/9e/PMC3310646.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4331655", "abstract": "Background: The use of smokeless tobacco is considered as a risk factor for oral cancer. Objectives: The current study aimed to chemically analyze, separate and measure the existing substances in a type of chewing tobacco. Materials and Methods: In the current descriptive study, the investigated sample was a type of smokeless tobacco, known as BT, manufactured in India. First steam distillation method and Clevenger machine were used to separate and extract the essential oil of the sample. The presence of the desired compounds was evaluated in the essential oil, using gas chromatography (GC) and then gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. Results: Based on the results obtained by the applied technique, the presence of carcinogenic compounds, N-nitrosomethyl-vinylamine (162 µg/g), N-nitrosonornicotine (6.3 µg/g), and Acetaldehyde (117 µg/g) was confirmed in the sample. Conclusions: Chemical analysis of the sample confirmed the existence of carcinogenic compounds.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d7/32/ijhrba-03-04-22133.PMC4331655.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4722148", "abstract": "PURPOSE To compare the push-out bond strength of feldspar and zirconia-based ceramic inlays bonded to dentin with different resin cements following simulated aging. MATERIALS AND METHODS Occlusal cavities in 80 extracted molars were restored in 2 groups (n=40) with CAD/CAM feldspar (Vitablocs Trilux forte) (FP) and zirconia-based (Ceramill Zi) (ZR) ceramic inlays. The fabricated inlays were luted in 2 subgroups (n=20) with either etch-and-bond (RelyX Ultimate Clicker) (EB) or self-adhesive (RelyX Unicem Aplicap) (SA) resin cement. Ten inlays in each subgroup were subjected to 3,500 thermal cycles and 24,000 loading cycles, while the other 10 served as control. Horizontal 3 mm thick specimens were cut out of the restored teeth for push out bond strength testing. Bond strength data were statistically analyzed using 1-way ANOVA and Tukey's comparisons at α=.05. The mode of ceramic-cement-dentin bond failure for each specimen was also assessed. RESULTS No statistically significant differences were noticed between FP and ZR bond strength to dentin in all subgroups (ANOVA, P=.05113). No differences were noticed between EB and SA (Tukey's, P>.05) bonded to either type of ceramics. Both adhesive and mixed modes of bond failure were dominant for non-aged inlays. Simulated aging had no significant effect on bond strength values (Tukey's, P>.05) of all ceramic-cement combinations although the adhesive mode of bond failure became more common (60-80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cc/4b/jap-7-446.PMC4722148.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5094524", "abstract": "Introduction DANBIO is a research register and a data source for rheumatologic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis [RA], axial spondyloarthritis, and psoriatic arthritis) for monitoring clinical quality at the national, regional, and hospital levels. Study population The register includes patients with rheumatologic diseases who are treated at a hospital or a private rheumatologic clinic. Registration is mandatory for all patients with RA regardless of treatment and also for patients with other diagnoses if treated with biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. Since 2006, the registration has been done electronically, including patient-reported outcome measures registered electronically by the patients with the use of touch screens. Main variables Core variables such as diagnosis, year of diagnosis, age, and sex are registered at the beginning. Data entered at later visits included the following: patient-reported outcomes for disease activity, pain, fatigue, functional status, and physician-reported objective measures of disease activity, treatment, C-reactive protein, and, when indicated, imaging. For subgroups of patients, the variables such as quality of life, sociodemographic factors, lifestyle, and comorbidity are also registered. Descriptive data The DANBIO cohort comprised ∼26,000 patients with RA, 3,200 patients with axial spondyloarthritis, and 6,200 patients with psoriatic arthritis in 2015. DANBIO has high nationwide coverage and completeness on key data variables. More than 60 original papers as well as annual reports of clinical quality (since 2005) have been published. Conclusion DANBIO is a powerful register for research in rheumatologic diseases and furthermore serves as a Clinical Quality Register with the aim of monitoring treatment quality in patients with RA in Denmark.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/eb/45/clep-8-737.PMC5094524.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3184719", "abstract": "Objective: An association between diabetes mellitus and alterations in the oral cavity has been noted. In this study, we evaluated differences between salivary IgA, glucose and flow rate in diabetic patients compared with healthy controls. Materials and Methods: Forty patients with type 1 diabetes, 40 patients with type 2 diabetes and 40 healthy controls were selected. Whole unstimulated saliva samples were collected by the standard method and the salivary flow rate was determined. Nephelometric and Pars method were used to measure salivary IgA and salivary glucose concentrations, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed by Chi-square and t test. Results: There were no significant differences in salivary IgA and glucose concentrations between type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients and their matched control subjects (P>0.05). Salivary flow rate was significantly lower in diabetic patients (P<0.05). In addition, DMFT was higher in diabetic patients than the controls. Conclusion: Determination of salivary constituents may be useful in the description and management of oral findings in diabetic patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d7/7d/jod-7-013.PMC3184719.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4890892", "abstract": "Spontaneous electrical activity is recorded in two species of marine cercariae, Cryptocotyle lingua and Himasthla elongata, with different types of swimming—by glass microelectrode recordings. Slow local field potentials (sLFPs) of low amplitude and fast high amplitude action potentials (APs) are found. The shape of the sLFPs is different in the species and correlates with the type of swimming. Fast high amplitude APs are recorded for the first time in cercariae. The limited number of APs included in the swimming pattern of larva suggests a key role for the spiking neurons in initiating the motility pattern in the cercaria and needs further research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/58/84/PMC4890892.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3953622", "abstract": "Tuberculin skin test has been used as an indicator of latent tuberculosis in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) before administration of biologicals. Effect of Disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and steroids on the result of tuberculin skin test (TST) may have important implications in interpretation of results of this test. Objectives. To find the prevalence of positive TST in rheumatoid patients and the effect of standard treatment on the results of TST. Method. In this cross-sectional study two hundred and fifty patients of RA above 18 years of age, classified using 1987 ACR criteria for RA, were enrolled from rheumatology outdoor. Demographics, disease activity, disease duration, and therapy were recorded. All patients underwent TST. Results. Fifty-one (20.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d7/10/PMC3953622.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3163922", "abstract": "Purpose: To determine trends in utilization and off-label use of polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000 in children and to determine the prevalence of constipation. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional analyses were conducted from 1997 to 2007 in a French health care database comprising general practitioners and pediatricians. Patients prescribed PEG 4000 (Forlax®; Ipsen Pharma, Paris, France) were used to assess PEG 4000 use; constipation was defined by a diagnosis of constipation or use of any laxative. Analyses used linear regression models to fit trends over time. Results: The study sample consisted of a nationally representative sample of 1200 general practitioners with 1.6 million patient medical records and 100 pediatricians with 70,000 patient medical records. Data were available from 1997 to 2007 for general practitioners and from 2003 to 2007 for pediatricians and were extrapolated to the national level. Among both groups of physicians there were statistically significant increases in the number of patients prescribed 4 g. For the 10 g dose, there was a decline among pediatricians. The largest increases were in children aged 0–8 years and in females. The prevalence of constipation in children aged 0–18 years was 4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d1/a1/PMC3163922.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3153848", "abstract": "Jakobson reports: “The Russian painter Repin was baffled as to why Sin had been depicted as a woman by German artists: he did not realize that ‘sin’ is feminine in German (die Sünde), but masculine in Russian (rpex).” Does the grammatical gender of nouns in an artist's native language indeed predict the gender of personifications in art? In this paper we analyzed works in the ARTstor database (a digital art library containing over a million images) to measure this correspondence. This analysis provides a measure of artists’ real-world behavior. Our results show a clear correspondence between grammatical gender in language and personified gender in art. Grammatical gender predicted personified gender in 78", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/18/PMC3153848.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2955272", "abstract": "Purpose To investigate the clinical features of Korean patients with congenital aniridia. Methods This retrospective study focused on 60 eyes from 31 patients who were diagnosed with congenital aniridia at Kangnam St. Mary's Hospital from 1996 to 2007. Patient age, gender, visual acuity (VA), family history, and previous ocular history were recorded. The presence of keratopathy, glaucoma, cataract, foveal hypoplasia, and other ocular or systemic anomalies were evaluated for each patient. Results The proportion of sporadic cases was 29.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/c4/kjo-24-291.PMC2955272.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4733501", "abstract": "Background: Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a common problem in patients with chronic renal failure. It can reduce the quality of life and sleep disturbances. This disorder is usually treated pharmacologically. Recently, complementary medicine methods have been suggested because of chemical drugs adverse effects. There is not enough evidence about the effect of aromatherapy on RLS. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of massage with lavender oil on RLS symptoms in hemodialysis patients. Patients and Methods: This randomized clinical trial study included 70 hemodialysis patients with RLS that were randomly assigned into two groups in 2014. The experimental group received effleurage massage using lavender oil and control group received routine care for three weeks. Data was collected with RLS questionnaire and analyzed using independent and paired t-test and Chi-square test. Results: The mean RLS scores were not significantly different in the two groups at the start of study (22.41 ± 7.67 vs. 22.90 ± 4.38, P = 0.76). At the end of study, the mean RLS score significantly decreased in the intervention group, while this score remained relatively un-changed in the control group (12.41 ± 5.49 vs. 23.23 ± 4.52, P < 0.0001). Conclusions: Lavender oil massage was effective to improve RLS in hemodialysis patients. It has no adverse effects, is practical and cost-effective. It is suggested to be used along with routine treatment of RLS in hemodialysis patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/ff/nms-04-29617.PMC4733501.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3015850", "abstract": "Background and Objectives: Erectile function after prostate surgery is an important criterion for patients when they are choosing a treatment modality for prostate cancer. Improved visualization, dexterity, and precision afforded by the da Vinci robot allow a precise dissection of the neurovascular bundles. We objectively assessed erectile function after robot-assisted extraperitoneal prostatectomy by using the SHIM (IIEF-5) validated questionnaire. Methods: Between July 2003 and September 2004, 150 consecutive men underwent da Vinci robot-assisted extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy for clinically localized prostate cancer. The IIEF-5 questionnaire was used to assess postoperative potency in 67 patients who were at least 6 months postsurgery. Erectile function was classified as impotent <11), moderate dysfunction (11 to 15), mild dysfunction (16 to 21), and potent (22 to 25). All patients used oral pharmacological assistance postprocedure. Results: Sixty-seven patients were available to complete the IIEF-5 questionnaire 6 months to 1 year postprostatectomy. Twelve patients were excluded from the study who abstained from all sexual activity after surgery for emotional or social reasons. Of the 55 patients evaluated, 22 (40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/09/87/jsls-11-4-443.PMC3015850.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4427813", "abstract": "Psychiatric disorders are disadvantageous behavioral phenotypes in humans. Accordingly, a recent epidemiological study has reported decreased fecundity in patients with psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders. Moreover, the fecundity of the relatives of these patients is not exceedingly higher compared to the fecundity of the relatives of normal subjects. Collectively, the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among humans is expected to decrease over generations. Nevertheless, in reality, the prevalence rates of psychiatric disorders in humans either have been constant over a long period of time or have even increased more recently. Several attempts to explain this fact have been made using biological mechanisms, such as de novo gene mutations or variants, although none of these explanations is fully comprehensive. Here, we propose a hypothesis towards understanding the biological mechanisms of psychiatric disorders from evolutionary perspectives. This hypothesis considers that behavioral phenotypes associated with psychiatric disorders might have emerged in the evolution of organisms as a neurodevelopmental adaptation against adverse environmental conditions associated with stress.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/30/c5/PMC4427813.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3793304", "abstract": " Purpose. To analyze microstructural changes in the external limiting membrane (ELM) and photoreceptor layer before and after early and late conventional laser treatment in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) in 12 months follow-up study. Methods. A retrospective observational study included Group A: 19 patients (19 eyes) with symptomatic acute CSC and Group B: 16 patients (16 eyes) with symptomatic chronic CSC. Retinal microstructural changes were analyzed with SD-OCT paying a particular role in examining the photoreceptor layer and ELM. Results. The length of the photoreceptors, prior to treatment, was approximately 84 μm in Group A and 82,5 μm in Group B. Twelve months after laser treatment, photoreceptor length was approximately 49 μm in Group A and 43 μm (range 20–55 μm) in Group B. No patients in Group A had noticeable photoreceptor defects nor ELM defects, but in 15 eyes in Group B photoreceptor and ELM defects were detected (P < 0.0001). Conclusions. When analyzing the photoreceptor layer and ELM during active CSC, it is not possible to evaluate any irreversible changes which have already occurred in this layer. Damage to the photoreceptor layer and ELM in patients with chronic CSC was only found after laser treatment and the absorption of subretinal fluid.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d7/a8/PMC3793304.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5094264", "abstract": "Salmonella species are facultative intracellular pathogens that most frequently cause self-limiting gastrointestinal disease, often acquired through the ingestion of contaminated food. We report the case of a 33-year-old otherwise healthy, not overtly immunosuppressed, man who was transferred to our facility with the chief complaint of respiratory failure and septic shock. Computed tomography of the chest revealed multifocal pneumonia in both lungs. A bronchial alveolar lavage was performed in the right middle lobe and cultures predominantly grew Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis. The patient received a prolonged course of antimicrobials, ultimately changing to oral levofloxacin. The etiology of the salmonella infection likely occurred through an aspiration event. Salmonella species are not a typical respiratory pathogen in immunocompetent hosts; however, clinicians should be aware of the possibility that salmonella species may be a pathogenic source of infection in the lungs; a prolonged course of antimicrobials may be warranted.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/14/main.PMC5094264.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2833317", "abstract": "Overweight and obesity are highly prevalent in developed countries and are also becoming more frequent in the developing world. Overweight and obese patients have elevated levels of several inflammatory markers and this inflammatory state might contribute to their increased vascular risk. We summarize the effects of lifestyle changes, antiobesity agents, and bariatric surgery on serological inflammatory markers in overweight and obese patients. Most studies showed a decrease in inflammation with all 3 interventions. However, it remains to be established whether the decrease in inflammatory markers induced by lifestyle changes or (where indicated) with antiobesity agents or bariatric surgery will translate into reduced vascular morbidity and mortality in overweight and obese patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/d4/PMC2833317.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3263730", "abstract": "The main purpose of the present study was to develop ocuserts of Fluconazole β-CD (beta-cyclodextrin) complex and to evaluate both in vitro and in vivo. Fluconazole was made complex with β-CD, and the release rate was controlled by HPMC K4M and ethyl cellulose polymers using dibutyl Phthalate as permeability enhancer. Drug-polymer interactions were studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic studies. The formulated ocuserts were tested for physicochemical parameters of in vitro release and in vivo permeation in rabbits. The optimized formulations (F-5 and F-8) were subjected to stability studies. The formulated ocuserts were found to have good physical characters, thickness, diameter, uniformity in weight, folding endurance, less moisture absorption, and controlled release of drug both in vitro and in vivo. The optimized formulations retained their characteristics even after stability studies. The study clearly showed that this technique was an effective way of formulating ocuserts for retaining the drug concentration at the intended site of action for a sufficient period of time and to elicit the desired pharmacological response.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/df/PMC3263730.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4967845", "abstract": "Background Generalized HIV epidemics propagate to future generations according to the age patterns of transmission. We hypothesized that future generations could be protected from infection using age-targeted prevention, analogous to the ring-fencing strategies used to control the spread of smallpox. Methods We modeled age-targeted or cohort-targeted outreach with HIV treatment and/or prevention using EMOD-HIV v0·8, an individual-based network model of HIV transmission in South Africa. Results Targeting ages 20 to 30 with intensified outreach, linkage, and eligibility for antiretroviral therapy (ART) averted 45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/45/5e/ihw010.PMC4967845.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3894753", "abstract": "Microorganisms remaining in dentin following cavity preparation may induce pulp damage, requiring the use of pulp-capping agents with antimicrobial activity underneath permanent restorations. Objective  The aims of this study were to analyze the bacteriological status of carious dentin and to assess the efficacy of different base underneath silver amalgam restorations.  Material and Methods  This study was conducted on 50 patients aged 13 to 30 years. Sterile swabs were used to take samples after cavity preparation, which was assessed by microbiological culture to identify the microorganisms present. Following this, cavities were restored with silver amalgam, using one of the materials being investigated, as the base: calcium hydroxide (Group II), polyantibiotic paste (Group III), a novel light-cured fluoride-releasing hydroxyapatite-based liner (Group IV) and mineral trioxide aggregate - MTA (Group V). In Group I, the cavities were restored with silver amalgam, without any base. After 3 months, the amalgam was removed and samples taken again and analyzed for the microbial flora.  Results  Lactobacilli were the most commonly isolated microorganisms in the samples of carious dentin. Groups IV and V showed negative culture in the 3-month samples. There was no statistically significant difference between Groups I, II and III. There was no significant difference between Groups IV and V (p>0.05). Both Groups IV and V showed significantly better results when compared to Groups I, II and III (p<0.05).  Conclusions  The hydroxyapatite-based liner and MTA performed significantly better in terms of antibacterial activity than the other materials.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/28/jaos-20-02-0139.PMC3894753.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2798796", "abstract": "Garlic is an herb which has been used by many cultures for treating various health problems for centuries. Uncontrolled use of herbal remedies, known as alternative treatment methods, may lead to side effects and serious treatment complications. This study aimed to draw attention to complications related to alternative treatment methods and to review the literature in the light of this case. A female patient who had been treated for trigeminal neuralgia was admitted to our clinic complaining of severe pain on the left side of her face. In anamnesis, the patient reported that she had applied garlic topically to this region. Extraoral examination revealed a broad cutaneous burn on the same region. According to a dermatology consultation, a treatment for cutaneous burns was applied and severe trigeminal neuralgia pain was eliminated with glycerol injection by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ef/03/PMC2798796.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4890925", "abstract": "For species at risk of extinction, any parasites they have would be expected to face a similar fate. In such cases, time is running out for efforts to identify and study their parasitic fauna before they are gone. We surveyed the hemoparasite fauna of 50 black-chested, spiny-tailed iguanas (Ctenosaura melanosterna), a critically-endangered species, on an island off the coast of Honduras. Blood samples from captured animals were tested for hemoparasites by thin blood smear and molecular analyses. Based on microscopy, two parasites were identified, a Plasmodium sp. in 14", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9b/1a/PMC4890925.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3556768", "abstract": "Anxiety and depression could reduce the quality of life, and exacerbate physical symptoms and even mortality amongst patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of anxiety and depression in patients with acute CHD. In a period from March to December 2008, the views of 108 CHD patients, hospitalized in a tertiary hospital, were solicited using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and sociodemographic questionnaires. Patients with CHD had a low level anxiety and depression scores. There was significant differences in the total HADS score of participants stratified for marital status (P=0.027) or co-morbidity of diseases (P=0.012). Also, there were significant differences in the scores of depression subscale stratified for marital status (P=0.021) or co-morbidity of disease (P=0.007). However, there was no significant difference between the total HADS score or depression subscale score of the participants stratified based on age, gender, race, education, or income. Moreover, unmarried CHD respondents possessed higher depression level compared to the married respondents, and CHD respondents with co-morbid diseases showed a high level of depression. The findings might be taken as evidence to suggest that CHD patients should be evaluated early for the detection of anxiety and depression for appropriate referral and support.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/87/2f/PMC3556768.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4664437", "abstract": "Background Preexisting gastrointestinal (GI) events may deter the use of pharmacologic treatment in patients diagnosed with osteoporosis (OP). The objective of this study was to examine the association between preexisting GI events and OP pharmacotherapy initiation among women diagnosed with OP. Methods The study utilized claims data from a large US managed care database to identify women aged ≥55 years with a diagnosis code for OP (index date) during 2002–2009. Patients with a claim for pharmacologic OP treatment in the 12-month pre-index period (baseline) were excluded. OP treatment initiation in the post-index period was defined as a claim for bisphosphonates (alendronate, ibandronate, risedronate, zoledronic acid), calcitonin, raloxifene, or teriparatide. During the post-index period (up to 12 months), GI events were identified before treatment initiation. A time-dependent Cox regression model was used to investigate the likelihood of initiating any OP treatment. Among patients initiating OP treatment, a discrete choice model was utilized to assess the relationship between post-index GI events and likelihood of initiating with a bisphosphonate versus a non-bisphosphonate. Results In total, 65,344 patients (mean age 66 years) were included; 23.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/67/de/ceor-7-603.PMC4664437.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4047952", "abstract": "As is well known, diabetes rates continue to escalate worldwide, adding cost and disease burden to all health-care institutions. Over the last few years, however, a number of diabetes paradigms have been challenged, not least on the best methods to lessen or delay the development of co-morbidities, in particular cardiovascular disease (CVD) (i.e. targeting blood pressure, cholesterol, and smoking will do more than intensive glucose control). In addition, recent research has offered some hope to potentially reverse diabetes in motivated individuals, with resultant larger and longer trials of such interventions about to commence. This brief review summarizes these important recent developments and suggests that, while many new drugs are being added to the diabetes therapeutic armory, more could and should be done to target sustainable weight change in our patients for multiple health benefits.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/15/medrep-06-42.PMC4047952.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3793268", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to measure treatment outcomes in a group of six adults with chronic dysphagia following acquired brain injury, who each completed 24 sessions of tongue-pressure resistance training, over a total of 11–12 weeks. The treatment protocol emphasized both strength and accuracy. Biofeedback was provided using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument. Amplitude accuracy targets were set between 20–90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/5f/ASL-15-492.PMC3793268.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4773545", "abstract": "This study compared the influence of type 2 diabetes on the occurrence of six periodontal pathogens in plaque samples of patients with and without chronic periodontitis. Levels of salivary MMP-8, MMP-9, RANKL, and OPG were also investigated. The study enrolled 31 patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic periodontitis (DM + CP), 29 with chronic periodontitis (CP), and 20 with type 2 diabetes (DM). Questionnaire-guided interviews were conducted and plaque index, bleeding on probing, and pocket depth were recorded. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was utilized to determine the prevalence of the bacteria. The levels of salivary molecules were determined by enzyme immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The CP group had the highest prevalence of P. gingivalis (81.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/36/65/PMC4773545.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3769560", "abstract": "The solid waste of sago industry using cassava was fermented by Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus and Rhizopus stolonifer in solid state fermentation. Cassava waste contained 52 per cent starch and 2.9 per cent protein by dry weight. The amylase activity was maintained at a high level and the highest amylase activity was observed on the 8th day in R. stolonifer mediated fermentation. R. stolonifer was more efficient than Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus terreus in bioconverting cassava waste into fungal protein (90.24 mg/g) by saccharifying 70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/67/mb-34-128.PMC3769560.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4317206", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Conjugated hyperbilirubinemia, posterior embryotoxon, and vertebral anomalies are not features of William syndrome (WS). We herein report a preterm infant who presented with features suggestive of Alagille syndrome, but microarray showed findings consistent with WS. This further extends the phenotype of WS and emphasizes the need for microarray analysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/41/ccr30003-0024.PMC4317206.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4384674", "abstract": "Acromegaly is a slowly progressing condition resulting from excess growth hormone (GH), generally caused by a GH-secreting pituitary adenoma. Cancer is the third most common cause of mortality in patients with acromegaly, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is known to influence tumor formation by increasing cell proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell neoplasm, and previous studies have suggested the possible role of IGF-1 in its development of MM. However, no cases of acromegaly accompanied with MM have been reported in Asia to date. We here report the case of a 58-year-old woman with acromegaly accompanied with MM who presented with longstanding acromegalic manifestations resulting from a GH-secreting pituitary adenoma and also exhibited anemia, a reversed albumin/globulin ratio, and plasmacytosis on bone marrow examination. Because IGF-1 has been suggested to play an important role in the development and progression of MM, the patient promptly underwent surgical removal of the pituitary adenoma via a transsphenoidal approach. Since there is currently no consensus on therapeutic guidelines and suggested prognosis for MM with acromegaly, long-term follow-up of such cases is needed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/a0/enm-30-110.PMC4384674.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4090466", "abstract": " Background. To investigate the influence of previous exposure to elevated thyroid hormones in euthyroid Graves' ophthalmopathy. Design. Retrospective, observational case series in university setting Median follow-up of 1 year with ranges of 0,8–7,6 years. Study performance of 10 years. Participants. We reviewed the clinical records of 731 Graves' ophthalmopathy patients. There were 88 (12", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e8/57/PMC4090466.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4401245", "abstract": "BACKGROUND Clinical follow-up studies comparing left ventricular (LV) function and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) by high-field 3T cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) are of general interest due to the increased use of 3T scanners. In this study, the occurrence of LGE and LV regional wall remodeling (RWR) was assessed by 3T CMR in patients undergoing coronary angiography for suspected stable coronary artery disease (CAD). MATERIALS AND METHODS Analysis of myocardial viability by LGE was performed at the segmental level. LVRWR was identified by a significant reduction (≥50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2d/de/PMC4401245.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4327276", "abstract": "This study compared, by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the efficacy of three solvents on the removal of filling materials from dentinal tubules during endodontic retreatment. Forty human maxillary canines with straight canals were prepared according to a crown-down technique and enlarged to a#30 apical file size, before obturation with gutta-percha and a zinc-oxide-eugenol based sealer. The samples were stored for 3 months before being randomly assigned to four groups: chloroform (n=10), orange oil (n=10), eucalyptol (n=10) and control (n=10). Solvents were applied to a reservoir created on the coronal root third using Gates Glidden drills. The total time for retreatment using the solvents was 5 minutes per tooth. Following retreatment the roots were split longitudinally for SEM evaluation. SEM images were digitized, analyzed using Image ProPlus 4.5 software, and the number of dentinal tubules free of filling material from the middle and apical thirds was recorded. No significant difference was found among the solvent groups regarding the number of dentinal tubules free of root filling remnants in the middle and apical root thirds (p>0.05). However, the control group had fewer dentinal tubules free of filling material (p<0.05). Under the tested conditions, it may be concluded that there was no significant difference among the solvents used to obtain dentinal tubules free of filling material remnants.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/99/1678-7757-jaos-16-01-0024.PMC4327276.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3829005", "abstract": "Abstract The final decade of the 20th century was marked by an alarming resurgence in infectious diseases caused by tropical parasites belonging to the kinetoplastid protozoan order. Among the pathogenic trypanosomatids, some species are of particular interest due to their medical importance. These species include the agent responsible for Chagas’ disease, Trypanosoma cruzi. Approximately 8 to 10 million people are infected in the Americas, and approximately 40 million are at risk. In the present review, we discuss in detail the immune mechanisms elicited during infection by T. cruzi and the effects of chemotherapy in controlling parasite proliferation and on the host immune system.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/75/47/PMC3829005.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5108601", "abstract": "Background The Lack’s circuit is a co-axial Mapleson A breathing system commonly used in spontaneously breathing anesthetized adults but still requires high fresh gas flow (FGF). The Lack-Plus circuit was invented with the advantage of lower FGF requirement. The authors compared the Lack-Plus and Lack’s circuit for the minimal FGF requirement with no rebreathing in spontaneously breathing anesthetized adults. Methods This was a randomized crossover study. We enrolled 24 adult patients undergoing supine elective surgery, with a body mass index ≤30 kg/m2 and an American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I–II. They were randomly allocated to group 1 (LP-L) starting with Lack-Plus then switching to Lack’s circuit or group 2 (L-LP) (with the reverse pattern). After induction and intubation, anesthesia was maintained with 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1b/aa/mder-9-395.PMC5108601.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4868232", "abstract": "[Purpose] Elastic therapeutic tape has been widely used for rehabilitation and treatment of sports injuries. Tapes with different elastic properties serve different treatment purposes with inappropriate tension reducing tape effectiveness. Many tapes are available in the market, but studies on tape properties are limited. The aim of this study was to examine the material properties of elastic therapeutic tape. [Subjects and Methods] Brands of elastic therapeutic tape included KinesioTex®, ATex, Mueller, 3M, and ThaiTape. The Material Testing System Insight® 1 Electromechanical Testing Systems was used to apply a tensile force on elastic therapeutic tape. Ten specimens of each brand were tested. Stress, load, and Young’s modulus at 25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/b6/jpts-28-1303.PMC4868232.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5181662", "abstract": "Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) measures of amyloid and tau are the first-line Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers in many clinical centers. We assessed if and when the addition of amyloid PET following CSF measurements provides added diagnostic value. Twenty patients from a cognitive clinic, who had undergone detailed assessment including CSF measures, went on to have amyloid PET. The treating neurologist’s working diagnosis, and degree of diagnostic certainty, was assessed both before and after the PET. Amyloid PET changed the diagnosis in 7/20 cases. Amyloid PET can provide added diagnostic value, particularly in young-onset, atypical dementias, where CSF results are borderline and diagnostic uncertainty remains.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d2/55/PMC5181662.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4220435", "abstract": "Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation (pAF) has a class 1 indication in patients who have not tolerated or responded to antiarrhythmic medications. Antiarrhythmic medications (AAM) are, however, limited not only by modest efficacy, but also by significant side effects. Discontinuation rates for AAM range from 11-40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c0/cf/PMC4220435.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3363046", "abstract": "Biliary strictures can be caused by various diseases. Intrahepatic duct (IHD) strictures are usually related to IHD stones and cholangitis. However, focal IHD strictures without IHD stones often create diagnostic problems. Parasitic diseases such as clonorchiasis can be a rare cause of an IHD stricture. Human clonorchiasis (Clonorchis sinensis infection) is an endemic parasitic disease in Eastern Asia, including Korea, and patients acquire the infestation by eating raw fish. On radiological examinations, clonorchiasis shows typically diffuse, minimal, or mild dilatation of the small IHD, particularly in the periphery, without dilatation of the extrahepatic duct. However, diagnosis of clonorchiasis can sometimes be difficult when radiological changes are atypical. We report a case of focal left IHD dilatation caused by clonorchiasis that was confused with a malignancy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/aa/ce-44-55.PMC3363046.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3181866", "abstract": "Bipolar disorder, especially the most severe type (type I), has a strong genetic component. Family studies suggest that a small number of genes of modest effect are involved in this disorder. Family-based studies have identified a number of chromosomal regions linked to bipolar disorder, and progress is currently being made in identifying positional candidate genes within those regions, À number of candidate genes have also shown evidence of association with bipolar disorder, and genome-wide association studies are now under way, using dense genetic maps. Replication studies in larger or combined datasets are needed to definitively assign a role for specific genes in this disorder. This review covers our current knowledge of the genetics of bipolar disorder, and provides a commentary on current approaches used to identify the genes involved in this complex behavioral disorder.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/de/6b/DialoguesClinNeurosci-10-141.PMC3181866.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3817705", "abstract": " Objective. To determine the current shortfall of medical oncologists (MOs) and the projected supply. Background. Morocco, the medical oncology (MO) is a relatively new specialty. Medical oncology was recognized as a separate specialty in 1994 but the real taking-off was done only since the 2000s after the creation of the chair of medical oncology in the University of Rabat. The GRIOMM (Moroccan group of trialist in medical oncology) was created in 2011 and conducted its first study, EVA-onco, concerning the practice of medical oncology in Morocco in 2011. Design. EVA-onco is a prospective study concerning the practice of medical oncology in Morocco in 2011. Results. The entire public cancer centers completed the survey. There were no missing data. The number of medical oncologist per 100000/habitants in Morocco was 0.09. The average number of new patients seen per medical oncologist was 718 patients (ranging by state from 97 to 1875). The shortfall of MOs was estimated at 26 at least in 2011 according to the national recommendations. Conclusions. Since 2010, a national strategy to increase the capacity of MO workforce existed. The current shortfall of MO is expected to disappear in the future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a1/8c/PMC3817705.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4056426", "abstract": "The best marker for the monitoring of immune alterations in critically ill patients (sepsis, trauma, pancreatitis, surgery, burns) so far remains decreased HLA-DR expression on monocytes measured by flow cytometry as it regularly provides valuable information in terms of mortality prediction or evaluation of risk for secondary infections. As shown by Cajander and colleagues in a recent issue of Critical Care, some promising tools-based molecular biology may circumvent some drawbacks related to flow cytometry. Herein, issues and perspectives about this alternative are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/b1/PMC4056426.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649659", "abstract": "We present the first-ever documented evidence of mitotic figures in a case of sinonasal myxoma diagnosed in a 37 year-old gentleman. A 37 year-old gentleman was referred to the Otolaryngology clinic with left nasal discharge for six months. Preoperative images demonstrated obstruction of the left nasal airway with complete opacification of the left maxillary sinus, obscuration of the osteomeatal complex, as well as expansion and thinning of the medial wall of the maxillary antrum. The patient underwent diagnostic Funtional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), therapeutic left Caldwell-Luc antrostomy, and revision FESS following recurrence. The patient was symptom-free at routine follow-up post-op. There has been much debate as to whether the absence of mitotic features in a specimen is absolutely necessary in order to confirm the diagnosis. We postulate that the presence of mitoses is an unusual diagnostic feature in extensive sinonasal myxoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/98/PMC3649659.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4281198", "abstract": "Several factors including cancer, malformations and traumas may cause large facial mutilation. These functional and aesthetic deformities negatively affect the psychological perspectives and quality of life of the mutilated patient. Conventional treatments are prone to fail aesthetically and functionally. The recent introduction of the composite tissue allotransplantation (CTA), which uses transplanted facial tissues of healthy donors to recover the damaged or non-existent facial tissue of mutilated patients, resulted in greater clinical results. Therefore, the present study aims to conduct a literature review on the relevance and effectiveness of facial transplants in mutilated subjects. It was observed that the facial transplants recovered both the aesthetics and function of these patients and consequently improved their quality of life.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/91/jod-11-733.PMC4281198.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3145259", "abstract": "Large-scale screening of small organic compounds has become a standard and essential practice in the early discovery of chemical entities with potential therapeutic use. To effectively support high-throughput screening campaigns, compound collections have to be in suitable formats, which requires a process known as compound reformatting. Here we report our approach to reformat the newly-established chemical repository of a large-scale screening facility at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which comprises more than half a million compounds, mostly from commercial sources. We highlight the timeline for a reformatting process, the importance of standardizing the operational procedures, and the advantages and disadvantages of using automation. The end result of our reformatting process is the concurrent generation of copies for long-term storage, screening, and “cherry-picking”; all of which facilitate compound management and high-throughput screening.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/13/TOCHGENJ-5-42.PMC3145259.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4841502", "abstract": "Objective: To explore the possibility of using interleukin-17 (IL-17) production by CD4+ T cells in the CSF as a potential biomarker for cerebral vasculitis in stroke patients. Methods: In this consecutive case study, we performed prospective analysis of CSF and blood in patients admitted to a university medical center with symptoms of stroke and suspected cerebral vasculitis. Flow cytometry was performed for intracellular detection of inflammatory cytokines in peripheral blood lymphocytes and expanded T cells from CSF. Results: CSF CD4+ lymphocytes from patients with cerebral vasculitis showed significantly higher levels of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-17 compared to patients with stroke not due to vasculitis or with other, noninflammatory neurologic diseases. There was no difference in the production of interferon-γ in the CSF and no overall differences in the relative frequencies of peripheral immune cells. Conclusions: Intracellular IL-17 in CSF cells is potentially useful in discriminating cerebral vasculitis as a rare cause in patients presenting with ischemic stroke. Classification of evidence: This study provides Class II evidence that an increased proportion of IL-17-producing CD4+ cells in CSF of patients presenting with stroke symptoms is indicative of cerebral vasculitis (sensitivity 73", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/1f/NEURIMMINFL2015005397.PMC4841502.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3872144", "abstract": "Dome-shaped macula (DSM) was described by Gaucher et al as a convex protrusion of macula within a staphyloma in highly myopic eyes that causes visual impairment associated with serous foveal detachment (SFD). We describe a patient with spontaneous resolution of SFD in DSM documented by serial spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). A 28-year-old female Japanese patient presented with blurred vision in both eyes. Upon examination, her best-corrected visual acuity was 1.2 with −8.0 sphere and 0.5 with −8.0 sphere in the right and left eyes, respectively. SD-OCT in both eyes showed an anterior bulge of the macula with SFD. The diagnosis of DSM with SFD was made on the basis of characteristic findings. Three months later, the patient achieved spontaneous resolution of SFD without treatment. One month later, there was an occurrence of SFD in the right eye, but the SFD had disappeared in 1 month. In our case, her visual impairment was proven to be a consequence of SFD in relation to DSM. SD-OCT was useful for the detection and follow-up of SFD in DSM.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ef/14/opth-8-083.PMC3872144.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4887715", "abstract": "Objective(s): Previous research demonstrated that diabetes is one of the leading causes of learning and memory deficits. Naringin, a bioflavonoid isolated from grapefruits and oranges, has potent protective effects on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Recently, the effects of naringin on learning and memory performances were monitored in many animal models of cognitive impairment. However, to date, no studies have investigated the ameliorative effects of naringin on diabetes-associated cognitive decline (DACD). In this study, we investigated the effects of naringin, using a STZ-injected rat model and explored its potential mechanism. Materials and Methods: Diabetic rats were treated with naringin (100 mg/kg/d) for 7 days. The learning and memory function were assessed by Morris water maze test. The oxidative stress indicators [superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA)] and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-a, IL-1β, and IL-6) were measured in hippocampus using corresponding commercial kits. The mRNA and protein levels of PPARγ were evaluated by real time (RT)-PCR and Western blot analysis. Results: The results showed that supplementation of naringin improved learning and memory performances compared with the STZ group. Moreover, naringin supplement dramatically increased SOD levels, reduced MDA levels, and alleviated TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 compared with the STZ group in the hippocampus. The pretreatment with naringin also significantly increased PPARγ expression. Conclusion: Our results showed that naringin may be a promising therapeutic agent for improving cognitive decline in DACD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/9e/IJBMS-19-417.PMC4887715.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3320462", "abstract": "We describe an outbreak of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in a pediatric renal transplant unit, likely attributable to patient-to-patient transmission. Single-strand conformation polymorphism molecular typing showed that 3 affected patients had acquired the same 2 strains of Pneumocystis, which suggests interhuman infection. An infant with mitochondriopathy was the probable index patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b1/8b/PMC3320462.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649334", "abstract": "We present a rare case of an ectopic main right renal artery originating as part of the coeliac axis. Renal arteries are usually paired vessels which originate directly from the aorta to supply each kidney. Variations in their origin and numbers have been reported by many authors. However, there has only been one previous report of a left main renal artery arising from the coeliac axis in the medical literature, in 1980, seen during angiography. We believe we have the first CT angiographic evidence of such anatomy. This important aberrant anatomy must be noted not only for its rarity but also for its implications in the field of transplant surgery and interventional radiology. There will be more similar reports as non-invasive imaging is being used ever more frequently.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/72/8b/PMC3649334.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4719093", "abstract": "Uterine serous adenocarcinoma (USC) is rare and invasive cancer. This cancer is more often reported in the ovary, the fallopian tube, and the endometrium than uterine cervix. No matter where the tumor is located, the tumor exhibits similar histological characteristics. So when uterine cancer is proven to be serous adenocarcinoma, it is necessary to see if the tumor originated from ovary or endometrium and invaded the cervix. We report a case of a 73-year-old postmenopausal woman with USC arising near the internal os of endocervical canal, clinically misdiagnosed as uterine cervix cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/b1/jmm-21-171.PMC4719093.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4297076", "abstract": "Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a clinical syndrome characterized by subtle abnormal morphology of the proximal femur and/or the acetabulum that leads to abnormal contact between the femoral neck and the acetabular rim during the hip range of motion. Traditionally, FAI has been managed safely and effectively with surgical hip dislocation; less invasive arthroscopic techniques are now being used to an increasing extent, trying to emulate the results of the open technique. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiographic results of arthroscopic acetabular rim trimming and femoral osteochondroplasty in FAI. This was a retrospective analysis of preoperative and postoperative plain radiographs of 80 patients treated for FAI with arthroscopic surgery between April 2007 and December 2008. We evaluated 2 parameters: the Wiberg angle (center-edge angle) (normal, 25°-35°), and the anterior/posterior relation of femoral head-neck offset (normal, 0.8-1). Of 80 hips, 10 (12.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/b7/PMC4297076.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4021833", "abstract": "This paper discusses the challenges encountered by researchers while conducting a randomized controlled trial (RCT) testing the efficacy of a healthy lifestyle educational and exercise intervention for people with serious mental illness. RCTs, even though considered the “gold standard” of research designs, are still prone to risks of potential bias and threats to their validity. Based on researcher reflexivity, the combination of reflection and action, during the conduct of the study, this paper outlines a number of challenges faced by the researchers. These included managing the need of participants to tell their story and be heard, reluctance of participants to remain in allocated groups, participant literacy, dual role of the nurse nurse-researcher, and reporting the benefits of nonstatistical results of a quantitative research project. Recommendations for conducting future behaviour intervention studies of this type include the incorporation of a reflexive component for the nurse nurse-researcher, highlighting the importance of taking a reflexive stance in both qualitative and quantitative research designs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fc/b6/PMC4021833.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4339173", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to determine the effects of Thai massage on physical fitness in soccer players. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty-four soccer players were randomly assigned to receive either rest (the control group) or three 30-minute sessions of Thai massage over a period of 10 days. Seven physical fitness tests consisting of sit and reach, hand grip strength, 40 yards technical agility, 50-meter sprint, sit-ups, push-ups, and VO2, max were measured before and after Thai massage or rest. [Results] All the physical fitness tests were significantly improved after a single session of Thai massage, whereas only the sit and reach, and the sit-ups tests were improved in the control group. [Conclusion] Thai massage could provide an improvement in physical performance in soccer players.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ff/24/jpts-27-505.PMC4339173.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4441943", "abstract": "Abstract Background Social determinants, similar to equity, have been considered by policymakers in many countries. However, there is not a correct and complete understanding of them. This study aimed to analyze the systematic relationships among social determinants of health (SDH) and identify their prioritization in Iran. Methods This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2012. The target population consisted of 30 experts on SDH. Required data was collected using a questionnaire, as well as, nominal group technique (NGT). Then collected data were analyzed using MATLAB 7.9.0 and SPSS 18.0. Results Determinants of early life (EL), social gradient (SG), unemployment (U), stress (S) and addiction (A) were certainly affecting determinants on the system, which were placed in the cause group and ranked as the first to fifth priorities, respectively. While social exclusion (SE), food (F), social support (SS), work (W) and transport (T) were partially affected determinants and were placed in the effect group and ranked as the sixth to tenth priorities, respectively. Early life and transport were identified as the most affecting and affected determinants with the coordinates (2.16 and 0.75) and (1.68 and -0.47) on the SDH diagram, respectively. Conclusion Improving the social and economic status, considering the early life, increasing the quality of education, and reducing unemployment and stress have effects on the other social determinants of health and provide opportunities for increasing equity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/38/fb/PMC4441943.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4534433", "abstract": "Purpose This study aimed to assess the accuracy of low-dose dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in predicting the composition of urinary calculi. Materials and Methods A total of 52 patients with urinary calculi were scanned with a 128-slice dual-source DECT scanner by use of a low-dose protocol. Dual-energy (DE) ratio, weighted average Hounsfield unit (HU) of calculi, radiation dose, and image noise levels were recorded. Two radiologists independently rated study quality. Stone composition was assessed after extraction by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIRS). Analysis of variance was used to determine if the differences in HU values and DE ratios between the various calculus groups were significant. Threshold cutoff values to classify the calculi into separate groups were identified by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results A total of 137 calculi were detected. FTIRS analysis differentiated the calculi into five groups: uric acid (n=17), struvite (n=3), calcium oxalate monohydrate and dihydrate (COM-COD, n=84), calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM, n=28), and carbonate apatite (n=5). The HU value could differentiate only uric acid calculi from calcified calculi (p<0.001). The DE ratio could confidently differentiate uric acid, struvite, calcium oxalate, and carbonate apatite calculi (p<0.001) with cutoff values of 1.12, 1.34, and 1.66, respectively, giving >80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/ee/kju-56-587.PMC4534433.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4432425", "abstract": "A previously healthy young man presented with acute renal failure due to extensive spontaneous deep vein thrombosis, including the inferior vena cava (IVC) and both renal veins. The patient was treated with selectively delivered thrombolytic therapy over a 7-day-period, which resulted in renal vein patency and complete recovery of renal function. A stent was placed over a segment stenosis of the IVC. No thrombophilic factors were identified. Bilateral renal vein thrombosis in young fit individuals is an unusual cause of acute renal failure. Thrombolytic therapy, even with delay, can completely restore renal function.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/67/d0/sfs118.PMC4432425.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3945149", "abstract": " Objectives. Low-income families may face financial barriers to management and treatment of chronic illnesses. No studies have explored how low-income individuals and families with anaphylactic food allergies cope with financial barriers to anaphylaxis management and/or treatment. This study explores qualitatively assessed direct, indirect, and intangible costs of anaphylaxis management and treatment faced by low-income families. Methods. In-depth, semistructured interviews with 23 participants were conducted to gain insight into income-related barriers to managing and treating anaphylactic food allergies. Results. Perceived direct costs included the cost of allergen-free foods and allergy medication and costs incurred as a result of misinformation about social support programs. Perceived indirect costs included those associated with lack of continuity of health care. Perceived intangible costs included the stress related to the difficulty of obtaining allergen-free foods at the food bank and feeling unsafe at discount grocery stores. These perceived costs represented barriers that were perceived as especially salient for the working poor, immigrants, youth living in poverty, and food bank users. Discussion. Low-income families report significant financial barriers to food allergy management and anaphylaxis preparedness. Clinicians, advocacy groups, and EAI manufacturers all have a role to play in ensuring equitable access to medication for low-income individuals with allergies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/c5/PMC3945149.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5320874", "abstract": "PURPOSE: Group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis is a common disease worldwide. We aimed to establish a pragmatic program as a clinical decision rule for GAS pharyngitis diagnosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This article derived from a research project on children aged 6–15 years. Five hundred and seventy-one children met the enrollment criteria on whom throat culture and validities of clinical findings were assessed in positive and negative throat culture groups. RESULTS: Positive GAS throat culture group included 99 (17.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/88/JLP-9-116.PMC5320874.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5010849", "abstract": "Objective(s): Due to the prevalence and pervasiveness of stress in modern life and exposure to both chronic and acute stresses, it is not clear whether prior exposure to chronic stress can influence the impairing effects of acute stress on memory retrieval. This issue was tested in this study. Materials and Methods: Adult male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to the following groups: control, acute, chronic, and chronic + acute stress groups. The rats were trained with six trials per day for 6 consecutive days in the water maze. Following training, the rats were either kept in control conditions or exposed to chronic stress in a restrainer 6 hr/day for 21 days. On day 22, a probe test was done to measure memory retention. Time spent in target and opposite areas, platform location latency, and proximity were used as indices of memory retention. To induce acute stress, 30 min before the probe test, animals received a mild footshock. Results: Stressed animals spent significantly less time in the target quadrant and more time in the opposite quadrant than control animals. Moreover, the stressed animals showed significantly increased platform location latency and proximity as compared with control animals. No significant differences were found in these measures among stress exposure groups. Finally, both chronic and acute stress significantly increased corticosterone levels. Conclusion: Our results indicate that both chronic and acute stress impair memory retrieval similarly. Additionally, the impairing effects of chronic stress on memory retrieval were not influenced by acute stress.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c0/68/IJBMS-19-763.PMC5010849.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3981357", "abstract": "Schwannomas are usually benign rare tumors that originating from Schwann cells of peripheral nerve sheaths. Presentation is generally varied and changed in a non-specific range from abdominal mass, flank pain to incidental findings. Herein we report 2 cases of retroperitoneal giant schwannomas with different clinical presentations, of whom one presented with vague abdominal pain, palpable abdominal mass for 4 years, swelling and bilateral hydronephrosis that caused by giant abdominal mass; the other one presented with right flank pain, rectal hemorrhage and lower extremities edema. Two patients were treated by complete surgical excision of masses. The histological and immunohistochemical diagnosis was reported as benign schwannoma. Both of patients are doing well and had no recurrence in 9 years and 28 months follow-up, respectively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/99/PMC3981357.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3786524", "abstract": "Nurse involvement in research is essential to the expansion of nursing science and improved care for patients. The research participation challenges encountered by nurses providing direct care (direct care nurses) include balancing patient care demands with research, adjusting to fluctuating staff and patient volumes, working with interdisciplinary personnel, and feeling comfortable with their knowledge of the research process. The purpose of this paper is to describe efforts to engage nurses in research for the Stories and Music for Adolescent/Young Adult Resilience during Transplant (SMART) study. SMART was an NIH-funded, multisite, randomized, behavioral clinical trial of a music therapy intervention for adolescents/young adults (AYA) undergoing stem cell transplant for an oncology condition. The study was conducted at 8 sites by a large multidisciplinary team that included direct care nurses, advanced practice nurses, and nurse researchers, as well as board-certified music therapists, clinical research coordinators, and physicians. Efforts to include direct care nurses in the conduct of this study fostered mutual respect across disciplines in both academic and clinical settings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/ee/PMC3786524.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3065131", "abstract": "Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the annual changes in prostate variables and style of surgical treatment of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) over the past 12 years. Materials and Methods The subjects were 918 patients (January 1999-November 2010) who were treated by either open prostatectomy or transurethral resection of prostate (TURP). Every year, the performance ratio between open prostatectomy and TURP was evaluated. Before surgery, total and transitional zone volumes of the prostate were measured by transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS). After surgery, resection weight and residual volume of the prostate were measured by TRUS. Results From 2001 through 2010, the performance ratio of TURP increased greatly from 89", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/48/kju-52-189.PMC3065131.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC137368", "abstract": "Pulmonary hypertension is a common complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The increase in pulmonary artery pressures is often mild to moderate, but some patients may suffer from severe pulmonary hypertension, and present with a progressively downhill clinical course because of right-sided heart failure added to ventilatory handicap. The cause of pulmonary hypertension in COPD is generally assumed to be hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction leading to permanent medial hypertrophy. However, recent pathological studies point, rather, to extensive remodeling of the pulmonary arterial walls, with prominent intimal changes. These aspects account for minimal reversibility with supplemental oxygen. There may be a case for pharmacological treatment of pulmonary hypertension in selected patients with advanced COPD and right-sided heart failure. Candidate drugs include prostacyclin derivatives, endothelin antagonists and inhaled nitric oxide, all of which have been reported of clinical benefit in primary pulmonary hypertension. However, it will be a challenge for randomized controlled trials to overcome the difficulties of the diagnosis of right ventricular failure and the definition of a relevant primary endpoint in pulmonary hypertensive COPD patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/70/PMC137368.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5388040", "abstract": "Background Biventricular (BiV) pacing is the most common mode of delivering cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). However, initial clinical studies have indicated that left ventricular (LV) pacing is not inferior to BiV pacing. This study was conducted to address whether LV only pacing can provide the same hemodynamic response as BiV pacing. Methods This before–after clinical trial was conducted at Ekbatan Hospital, from July 2012 to November 2014. Patients with a LV ejection fraction ≤35", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/26/main.PMC5388040.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5411735", "abstract": "Abstract It is well established in the literature that the incidence of malignancy is higher in transplant patients than in the general population. Risk factors and screening guidelines for transplant patients have been proposed, but are far from standardized. In this case report, we discuss the treatment course of a 73-year-old female with a history of renal tuberculosis, who developed squamous cell carcinoma at the transplant ureterovesical junction 6 years following graft placement. To our knowledge, this is the second reported case in a patient with a history of renal tuberculosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/22/43/rjx066.PMC5411735.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4472289", "abstract": " Study Design Case report and review of literature.  Objective To report the case of a 67-year-old woman who developed delayed onset (6 months) of symptomatic shingles after cervical nerve root decompression in a previously symptomatic dermatome.  Methods The patient's clinic course and outcomes were retrospectively reviewed. The study required no outside funding. The study authors have no financial interest in any of the products or techniques discussed.  Results The patient received definitive treatment for shingles once the zoster form rash manifested. The patient, however, developed postherpetic neuralgia and remained symptomatic at her 2-year postoperative visit.  Conclusions Although shingles is a common disease state affecting patients in the fifth and sixth decades of life, it is rarely seen in the setting of cervical nerve root decompression. This case demonstrates the need to include shingles on the differential diagnosis of recurrent neurogenic pain after anterior cervical decompression and fusion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bd/a2/PMC4472289.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4499618", "abstract": "The aim of this study is to investigate in vivo and ex vivo ocular surface alterations induced by dry eye disease and modification after osmoprotective therapy. Forty-eight eyes of 24 patients suffering from dry eye have been recruited. All patients received Optive (compatible solutes) eye drops in one randomly selected eye and Hylogel (sodium hyaluronate 0,2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0d/16/PMC4499618.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4278455", "abstract": "There is an increasing body of evidence that not only cognition but also emotions shape moral judgment. The conventional teaching of responsible conduct of research, however, does not target emotions; its emphasis is on rational analysis. Here I present a new approach, ‘the feelings method,’ for incorporating emotions into science ethics education. This method is embodied in Dear Scientists, an innovative film that combines humanities with arts and works at the subconscious level, delivering an intense mix of music and images, contrasted by calm narration. Dear Scientists has struck a chord across the science, humanities, and arts communities—a promising sign.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/88/db/jmbe-15-100.PMC4278455.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4609814", "abstract": "Although it has been established that effector memory CD4+ T cells play an important role in the protective immunity against chronic infections, little is known about the exact mechanisms responsible for their functioning and maintenance, as well as their effects on innate immune cells. Here we review recent data on the role of IFN-γ priming as a mechanism affecting both innate immune cells and effector memory CD4+ T cells. Suboptimal concentrations of IFN-γ are seemingly crucial for the optimization of innate immune cell functions (including phagocytosis and destruction of reminiscent pathogens), as well as for the survival and functioning of effector memory CD4+ T cells. Thus, IFN-γ priming can thus be considered an important bridge between innate and adaptive immunity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ad/64/PMC4609814.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4979270", "abstract": "Background: The hospitalization of a child is a stressful experience for parents, especially mothers. Not having access to the teacher and not being able to continue school studies within the hospital by hospitalized children is a common reason for anxiety in them and their parents. The current study aimed to determine the effect of teacher's presence at children's bedside on the anxiety of mothers with hospitalized children. Materials and Methods: In a randomized clinical trial, a total of 50 mothers with children admitted to pediatric ward of one teaching hospital in Mashhad, Iran, were randomly allocated to two equal groups. In the intervention group, the teacher was present at children's bedside for daily education and practices, but the control group received standard routine care. The mothers’ level of anxiety was evaluated using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, which was completed at both admission and prior to child's discharge. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results: The results showed that before intervention, the means and standard deviations of the mothers’ trait anxiety scores in the experimental and control groups were not significantly different (P = 0.164). However, after intervention, the mothers’ mean trait anxiety scores decreased significantly in the intervention group compared to the control group (P < 0.001) and compared to the pre-intervention phase (P < 0.001). Conclusions: It seems that the presence of a teacher at children's bedside is an easy and effective strategy to reduce anxiety in mothers regarding their children hospitalization.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/d4/IJNMR-21-436.PMC4979270.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4017451", "abstract": "Recent trends in medical education are moving rapidly away from gaining a certain number of marks in high-stakes examinations and towards gathering evidence of clinical competence and professional behavior observed in clinical environments (workplace-based learning). In the Miller's framework for assessing clinical competence, workplace-based methods of assessment target the highest level of the pyramid and collect information about doctors’ performance in their everyday practice. Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS), Mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (mini-CEX) and Case-based discussion (CbD) are some of the most commonly used methods of workplace-based assessments. I explain these three methods of assessment and their advantages and discuss that if incorporated in a structured program of teaching for doctors in training, they can promote active, learner-centered learning and facilitate provision of developmental verbal feedback to the trainee immediately afterwards.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2a/59/GHFBB-5-024.PMC4017451.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3500199", "abstract": "The 'Statistical Analysis for Genetic Epidemiology' (S.A.G.E.) software package is an integrated, comprehensive package of computer programs designed to perform many of the different analyses required in the study of genetic epidemiology. It offers a graphical user interface for most platforms and, unlike many programs available in the public domain, is flexible in both receiving many types of input files and in allowing the user to choose among output files. All of the programs accept the same data files and together provide the means to perform familial correlation, segregation, linkage and association analyses, as well as many of the ancillary analyses that help achieve these goals. Many, but not all, of the same or similar analyses can be performed (with more difficulty) using publicly available freeware. The primary limitations of S.A.G.E. at present are the lack of software for estimating haplotypes or for identifying probable double recombinants in linkage analysis. S.A.G.E. is continually being extended and upgraded, however, with automatic downloading of the latest version always available to users.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/46/66/PMC3500199.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4399027", "abstract": "After the Tokyo Electric Power Company Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident, cancer risk from low-dose radiation exposure has been deeply concerning. The linear no-threshold model is applied for the purpose of radiation protection, but it is a model based on the concept that ionizing radiation induces stochastic oncogenic alterations in the target cells. As the elucidation of the mechanism of radiation-induced carcinogenesis is indispensable to justify the concept, studies aimed at the determination of molecular changes associated with thyroid cancers among children who suffered effects from the Chernobyl nuclear accident will be overviewed. We intend to discuss whether any radiation signatures are associated with radiation-induced childhood thyroid cancers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9a/13/cas0106-0127.PMC4399027.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3960743", "abstract": "Our study describes the incidence and risk factors for undiagnosed diabetes in elderly cancer patients. Using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare data, we followed patients with breast, colorectal, lung, or prostate cancer from 24 months before to 3 months after cancer diagnosis. Medicare claims were used to exclude patients with diabetes 24 to 4 months before cancer (look-back period), identify those with diabetes undiagnosed until cancer, and construct indicators of preventive services, physician contact, and comorbidity during the look-back period. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with undiagnosed diabetes. Overall, 2,678 patients had diabetes undiagnosed until cancer. Rates were the highest in patients with both advanced-stage cancer and low prior primary care/medical specialist contact (breast 8.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a3/df/PMC3960743.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2951182", "abstract": "A long-standing goal of computational protein design is to create proteins similar to those found in Nature. One motivation is to harness the exquisite functional capabilities of proteins for our own purposes. The extent of similarity between designed and natural proteins also reports on how faithfully our models represent the selective pressures that determine protein sequences. As the field of protein design shifts emphasis from reproducing native-like protein structure to function, it has become important that these models treat the notion of specificity in molecular interactions. Although specificity may, in some cases, be achieved by optimization of a desired protein in isolation, methods have been developed to address directly the desire for proteins that exhibit specific functions and interactions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/79/zbc31095.PMC2951182.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4426653", "abstract": "Herbs are extensively consumed in the United Arab Emirates for their flavoring and medicinal properties. This study aimed at determining the concentration of heavy metals in selected traditional herbs consumed in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A total of 81 samples of seven herbs, parsley (Petroselinum crispum), basil (Ocimum basilicum), sage (Salvia officinalis), oregano (Origanum vulgare), mint (Mentha spicata), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), and chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), were purchased from the local market in Dubai and analyzed for their cadmium, lead, copper, iron, and zinc contents. Microwave-assisted digestion was applied for the dissolution of the samples and heavy metals concentration was determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). Metals were found to be present in varied concentrations in the herb samples. The concentration ranges were found as follows: less than 0.1–1.11 mg·kg−1 for cadmium, less than 1.0–23.52 mg·kg−1 for lead, 1.44–156.24 mg·kg−1 for copper, 12.65–146.67 mg·kg−1 for zinc, and 81.25–1101.22 mg·kg−1 for iron. The findings of the study suggest that most of the analyzed herbs contained unsafe levels of heavy metals that exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits (PL).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/97/PMC4426653.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3180855", "abstract": "We examined long-term patterns of stressful life events (SLE) and their impact on mortality contrasting two theoretical models: allostatic load (linear relationship) and hormesis (inverted U relationship) in 1443 NAS men (aged 41–87 in 1985; M = 60.30, SD = 7.3) with at least two reports of SLEs over 18 years (total observations = 7,634). Using a zero-inflated Poisson growth mixture model, we identified four patterns of SLE trajectories, three showing linear decreases over time with low, medium, and high intercepts, respectively, and one an inverted U, peaking at age 70. Repeating the analysis omitting two health-related SLEs yielded only the first three linear patterns. Compared to the low-stress group, both the moderate and the high-stress groups showed excess mortality, controlling for demographics and health behavior habits, HRs = 1.42 and 1.37, ps <.01 and <.05. The relationship between stress trajectories and mortality was complex and not easily explained by either theoretical model.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/21/PMC3180855.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3355652", "abstract": "A case of invasive ductal carcinoma of an ectopic pancreas in the stomach in a 74-year-old woman is presented. A 4.0 cm gastric submucosal tumor (SMT) was resected surgically. Histologically, the tumor showed cystic tissue consisting of an ectopic pancreas with foci of a moderately differentiated tubular adenocarcinoma. In this tumor, small pancreatic tissues, acini, Langerhans islets, and ductular cells were detected in the gastric SMT. The patient has experienced long-term survival. The incidence of pancreatic cancer of an ectopic pancreas is rare, and the etiology of this disease is discussed in the literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ba/1e/cro-0005-0069.PMC3355652.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5347962", "abstract": "The seven members of the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNF‐R)‐associated factor (TRAF) family of intracellular proteins were originally discovered and characterized as signaling adaptor molecules coupled to the cytoplasmic regions of receptors of the TNF‐R superfamily. Functionally, TRAFs act both as a scaffold and/or enzymatic proteins to regulate activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and transcription factors of nuclear factor‐κB family (NF‐κB). Given the wide variety of stimuli intracellularly conveyed by TRAF proteins, they are physiologically involved in multiple biological processes, including embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and regulation of innate and adaptive immune responses. In the last few years, it has become increasingly evident the involvement of TRAF7, the last member of the TRAF family to be discovered, in the genesis and progression of several human cancers, placing TRAF7 in the spotlight as a novel tumor suppressor protein. In this paper, we review and discuss the literature recently produced on this subject. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1233–1238, 2017. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Physiology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/cb/JCP-232-1233.PMC5347962.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3578444", "abstract": "Minodronic acid hydrate was the first bisphosphonate developed and approved for osteoporosis treatment in Japan. With regard to inhibition of bone resorption, minodronic acid hydrate is 1000 times more effective than etidronic acid and 10–100 times more effective than alendronic acid. Clinical trials conducted to date have focused on postmenopausal female patients suffering from primary osteoporosis. In these trials, 1 mg of oral minodronic acid hydrate was administrated once daily, and a significant increase was observed in lumbar-spine and hip-joint bone density 1–2 years after administration. All markers of bone metabolism urinary collagen type 1 cross-linked N-telopeptide, urinary free deoxypyridinoline, serum bone alkaline phosphatase, and serum osteocalcin were decreased. The incidence rate of new vertebral and nonvertebral fractures was also decreased. Therefore, effectiveness in fracture prevention was confirmed. A form of minodronic acid (50 mg) requiring once-monthly administration has been developed and is currently being used clinically. A comparative study between this new formulation and once-daily minodronic acid (1 mg) showed no significant differences between the two formulations in terms of improvement rates in lumbar-spine and hip-joint bone density, changes in bone metabolism markers, or incidence of side effects. This indicates the noninferiority of the monthly formulation. Side effects such as osteonecrosis of the jaw or atypical femoral fractures were not reported with other bisphosphonates, although it is believed that these side effects may emerge as future studies continue to be conducted. On the basis of studies conducted to date, minodronic acid hydrate is considered effective for improving bone density and preventing fractures. We anticipate further investigations in the future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6c/be/PMC3578444.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3350988", "abstract": "The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the phases of the action research process involved in developing, implementing, and evaluating the Heart Beads program. The aim of the project is to enrich the hospital experience of children with cardiac conditions. Heart Beads involves children receiving unique beads specific to each cardiac treatment, procedure or event in recognition of their experiences, and endurance. An action research approach, involving a partnership between clinicians and researchers and emphasising the involvement of patients and their families, was used to guide the Heart Beads program. The project followed the five phases of action research: identification, investigation, program development, implementation, and evaluation. Heart Beads began as a small project which continues to grow in popularity and significance with children at a tertiary paediatric hospital in Sydney, Australia. The program is now being implemented nationwide with the vision that all Australian children hospitalised with cardiac conditions can benefit from Heart Beads.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/60/PMC3350988.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC169181", "abstract": "The ability to chemically modify the surfaces of viruses and virus-like particles makes it possible to confer properties that make them potentially useful in biotechnology, nanotechnology and molecular electronics applications. RNA phages (e.g. MS2) have characteristics that make them suitable scaffolds to which a variety of substances could be chemically attached in definite geometric patterns. To provide for specific chemical modification of MS2's outer surface, cysteine residues were substituted for several amino acids present on the surface of the wild-type virus particle. Some substitutions resulted in coat protein folding or stability defects, but one allowed the production of an otherwise normal virus-like particle with an accessible sulfhydryl on its surface.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/eb/PMC169181.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3781531", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the added value of intensive self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), structured in timing and frequency, in noninsulin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The 12-month, randomized, clinical trial enrolled 1,024 patients with noninsulin-treated type 2 diabetes (median baseline HbA1c, 7.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/56/d8/2887.PMC3781531.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2857619", "abstract": "The hepatic iron regulator hormone hepcidin consists, in its mature form, of 25 amino acids, but two other isoforms, hepcidin-20 and hepcidin-22, have been reported, whose biological meaning remains poorly understood. We evaluated hepcidin isoforms in sera from 57 control and 54 chronic haemodialysis patients using a quantitative proteomic approach based on SELDI-TOF-MS.  Patients had elevated serum levels of both hepcidin-25 and  hepcidin-20 as compared to controls (geometric means: 7.52 versus  4.69 nM, and 4.06 versus 1.76 nM, resp.,  P < .05 for both). The clearance effects of a single dialysis  session by different dialysis techniques and membranes were also  investigated, showing an average reduction by  51.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1f/f5/PMC2857619.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2425490", "abstract": "We report a crystal structure that shows an antibiotic that extracts a nucleobase from a DNA molecule ‘caught in the act’ after forming a covalent bond but before departing with the base. The structure of trioxacarcin A covalently bound to double-stranded d(AACCGGTT) was determined to 1.78 Å resolution by MAD phasing employing brominated oligonucleotides. The DNA–drug complex has a unique structure that combines alkylation (at the N7 position of a guanine), intercalation (on the 3′-side of the alkylated guanine), and base flip-out. An antibiotic-induced flipping-out of a single, nonterminal nucleobase from a DNA duplex was observed for the first time in a crystal structure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/86/e1/gkn245.PMC2425490.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3175359", "abstract": "Aim To report a case of a patient with myeloperoxidase-antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-negative microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and IgA nephropathy associated with severe pulmonary haemorrhage. Case Report A 59-year-old man presented with ANCA-negative systemic vasculitis accompanied by purpura, nephritis and pulmonary haemorrhage. A skin biopsy specimen revealed pandermal leucocytoclastic vasculitis without IgA deposition and a kidney biopsy showed mesangial nephritis with IgA deposition. Considering these findings, the patient was diagnosed as having MPA with IgA nephropathy. Discussion In most cases, MPA presents with rapidly progressive necrotizing glomerulonephritis and sometimes lung haemorrhage, while IgA nephropathy is less common among MPA cases. As recent research suggested that in MPA immunoglobulin deposition in the kidney may be an exacerbating factor for renal dysfunction and poor prognosis, close observation is required in these cases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/24/bd/cde0003-0022.PMC3175359.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4853959", "abstract": "The samples of DaGang atmospheric residue (DG-AR), Middle East atmospheric residue (ME-AR), TaHe atmospheric residue (TH-AR), and their thermal reaction samples were chosen for study. All the samples were fractioned into six components separately, including saturates plus light aromatics, heavy aromatics, light resins, middle resins, heavy resins, and asphaltenes. The dielectric permittivity of the solutions of these components was measured, and the dielectric permittivity values of the components can be determined by extrapolation, which increased steadily from saturates plus light aromatics to asphaltenes. Moreover, the Hamaker constants of the components were calculated from their dielectric permittivity values. The Van der Waals attractive potential energy between colloids corresponding to various models could be calculated from the fractional composition and the Hamaker constants of every component. It was assumed that the cores of colloidal particles were formed by asphaltenes and heavy resins mainly; the other fractions acted as dispersion medium. For the three serials of thermal reaction samples, the Van der Waals attraction potential energy between colloids for this kind of model was calculated. For TH-AR thermal reaction samples, the Van der Waals attraction potential energy presented the maximum as thermal reaction is going on, which was near to the end of coke induction period.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b6/a3/PMC4853959.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3618044", "abstract": "Mussels are commonly used in cooking around the world. The mussel shell breaks more easily than other shells, and the edge of the broken mussel shell is sharp. Impaction can ultimately cause erosion, perforation and fistula. Aside from these complications, the pain can be very intense. Therefore, it is essential to verify and remove the shell as soon as possible. In this report we describe the process of diagnosing and treating mussel shell impaction in the esophagus. Physicians can overlook this unusual foreign body impaction due to lack of experience. When physicians encounter a patient with severe chest pain after a meal with mussels, mussel shell impaction should be considered when diagnosing and treating the patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9c/63/crg-0007-0112.PMC3618044.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4548682", "abstract": "Retained surgical gauze that was left inside the patient during a surgical procedure is called gossypiboma or textiloma. It is a rare complication of surgery commonly seen after abdominal operations. The symptoms of gossypiboma are non-specific, such as pain, palpable mass and fever, which make clinical diagnosis difficult. We present a case of young female athlete patient with right lower quadrant (RLQ) pain for 1 month, caused by surgical gauze which was retained from previous cesarean delivery performed 24 yr ago. Patient with retained surgical gauze can be asymptomatic for a long period. In our case, laparoscopy was used as the diagnostic and therapeutic tool. This report discusses the approach to, and manifestations of gossypiboma which presents a long asymptomatic period.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f3/f2/jer-11-4-236.PMC4548682.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4381861", "abstract": " Objective. This study aims to examine the relationship of diabetes care processes and patient outcomes with an expanded set of indicators regarding patient-oriented care delivery, such as treatment satisfaction, the quality of patient-physician relationship, and a wider range of patient outcomes such as self-management, health behaviour, disease-related burden, and health-related quality of life (HRQL). Methods. The study population consisted of 486 participants with type 2 diabetes in two population-based follow-up surveys, conducted in 2003 to 2005 and 2006 to 2008 in Southern Germany. Data were self-reported and questionnaire-based, including the SF-12 for HRQL. Multiple regression models were used to identify associations between care processes and outcomes with adjustment for confounders. Results. Frequent medical examinations increased the likelihood of self-monitoring activities, such as foot care. A positive patient experienced relationship with their physician is associated with higher adherence to medical recommendations, such as medication intake, and the score of the SF-12 mental component. Participants with diabetes-related complications reported higher levels of medical examinations and multiprofessional care. Conclusions. Indicators of patient-oriented care should become an indispensable part of diabetes clinical practice guidelines with the aim of striving for more effective support of patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/43/0a/PMC4381861.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3085432", "abstract": "Neuropsychiatric disorders are becoming a major socioeconomic burden to modern society. In recent years, a dramatic expansion of tools has facilitated the study of the molecular basis of neuropsychiatric disorders. Molecular imaging has enabled the noninvasive characterization and quantification of biological processes at the cellular, tissue, and organism levels in intact living subjects. This technology has revolutionized the practice of medicine and has become critical to quality health care. New advances in research on molecular imaging hold promise for personalized medicine in neuropsychiatric disorders, with adjusted therapeutic doses, predictable responses, reduced adverse drug reactions, early diagnosis, and personal health planning. In this paper, we discuss the development of radiotracers for imaging dopaminergic, serotonergic, and noradrenergic systems and β-amyloid plaques. We will underline the role of molecular imaging technologies in various neuropsychiatric disorders, describe their unique strengths and limitations, and suggest future directions in the diagnosis and management of neuropsychiatric disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2d/f1/PMC3085432.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4764275", "abstract": " Background: Sleep apnea is temporary cessation or absence of breathing during sleep. Significant increase in blood pressure is clinically seen in apneic episodes. The aim of this study was to examine sleep apnea syndrome as a risk factor for non- arthritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) in a case control study.   Methods: Nineteen NAION patients (9 men and 10 women) and 31 age and sex matched control participants (18 men and 13 women) were evaluated for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). Full night polysomnography was performed and proportion of OSAS was compared between the NAION patients and the control group. Other risk factors for NAION such as hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, ischemic heart disease and tobacco consumption were also evaluated. Chi square test and independent samples t-test were used for statistical analysis.   Results: OF the 19 NAION patients, 18 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/93/MJIRI-29-300.PMC4764275.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3238376", "abstract": "A registry of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), was created at the University of Puerto Rico in 1995. Subjects with a documented diagnosis of IBD by clinical, radiologic, endoscopic, and/or pathologic criteria were recruited from the IBD clinics, support groups, and community practices, and demographic and medical data was collected. All entries from 1995 to 2009 were analyzed for demographics, family history, disease extent, extraintestinal manifestations, surgery, and smoking history. Results were described using summary statistics. 635 Hispanics living in Puerto Rico, 299 with UC and 336 with CD, were included. Mean ages were 40.3 for UC and 30.9 for CD. Over half (56", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b0/3d/PMC3238376.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4334928", "abstract": "This paper aims at developing and validating a convenient, rapid, and sensitive method for estimation of metamitron from soil samples.Determination andquantification was carried out by Gas Chromatography on microcapillary column with an Electron Capture Detector source. The compound was extracted from soil using methanol and cleanup by C-18 SPE. After optimization, the method was validated by evaluating the analytical curves, linearity, limits of detection, and quantification, precision (repeatability and intermediate precision), and accuracy (recovery). Recovery values ranged from 89 to 93.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/77/7c/PMC4334928.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5009585", "abstract": "Background: Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) often develops in transplant patients and results in injury to the respiratory and terminal airway epithelium. Owing to its rising incidence, the pathogenesis of BOS is currently an area of intensive research. Studies have shown that injury to the respiratory epithelium results in dysregulation of epithelial repair. Airway epithelial regeneration is supported by stromal cells, including fibroblasts. This study aimed to investigate whether the supportive role of lung fibroblasts is altered in BOS. Methods: Suspensions of lung cells were prepared by enzyme digestion. Lung progenitor cells (LPCs) were separated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Lung fibroblasts from patients with BOS or healthy controls were mixed with sorted mouse LPCs to compare the colony-forming efficiency of LPCs by counting the number of colonies with a diameter of ≥50 μm in each culture. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS 17.0 software (SPSS Inc., USA). The paired Student's t-test was used to test for statistical significance. Results: LPCs were isolated with the surface phenotype of CD31- CD34- CD45- EpCAM+ Sca-1+. The colony-forming efficiency of LPCs was significantly reduced when co-cultured with fibroblasts isolated from patients with BOS. The addition of SB431542 increased the colony-forming efficiency of LPCs to 1.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/d3/CMJ-129-2040.PMC5009585.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4363022", "abstract": "The purpose of the present study is to investigate the feasibility of strain analysis using speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) in cats and to evaluate STE variables in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Sixteen clinically healthy cats and 17 cats with HCM were used. Radial and circumferential strain and strain rate variables in healthy cats were measured using STE to assess the feasibility. Comparisons of global strain and strain variables between healthy cats and cats with HCM were performed. Segmental assessments of left ventricle (LV) wall for strain and strain rate variables in cats with HCM were also performed. As a result, technically adequate images were obtained in 97.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5f/8b/jvms-77-193.PMC4363022.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5417342", "abstract": "Hereditary neuralgic amyotrophy is a rare disorder characterized by the sudden onset of recurrent episodes of painful brachial plexus neuropathies, followed by atrophy within a few weeks. The authors present the case of a 5-year-old boy who developed hereditary neuralgic amyotrophy in the right upper limb after a gastroenteritis illness. He made a full and rapid recovery with the use of intravenous immunoglobulin. A subsequent episode in the left upper limb during the course of intravenous immunoglobulin was significantly attenuated. A de novo c.262C>T mutation in exon 2 of the SEPT9 gene was identified. To our knowledge, he is the first pediatric patient with SEPT9 hereditary neuralgic amyotrophy to be treated with intravenous immunoglobulin. The authors hypothesize that the c.262C>T mutation in exon 2 of the SEPT9 gene generates pathology via the numerous isoforms under specific conditions and that intravenous immunoglobulin can play a role at the epigenetic level of improving dysfunctional SEPT9 expression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/c9/10.1177_2329048X16668970.PMC5417342.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4842431", "abstract": "[Purpose] Bruxism is a repetitive muscle activity involving the clenching or grinding of one’s teeth during sleep or waking hours. Melissa officinalis L. may be employed as a natural therapy due to the sedative, anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-spasm properties of the chemical constituents of the essential oil obtained from its leaves. The aim of the present study was to evaluate electromyographic signals in the temporal muscle using the BiteStrip® test on children with sleep bruxism before and after therapy with Melissa officinalis L. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were randomly allocated to two groups. Group 1 (n = 12) ingested a tincture containing Melissa officinalis L. for 30 days. Group 2 (n = 12) received a placebo solution with the same dose and frequency as Group 1. The Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests were employed for statistical analysis. [Results] The sample was made up of 24 children aged 6 to 10 years. No statistically significant differences were found between initial and final muscle activity in either group or in an intergroup comparison. [Conclusion] Use of the Melissa officinalis L. tincture at the dose employed did not lead to a reduction in muscle activity in children with bruxism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/b1/jpts-28-738.PMC4842431.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5240319", "abstract": "A case of a female patient with local and systemic complications of metallosis, following catastrophic wear of a revised hip arthroplasty, is presented. The patient had a history of a fractured ceramic-on-ceramic implant, exchanged with a metal-on-polyethylene prosthesis. Systemic complications included sarcoidosis-like reactions, presenting as granulomatous lung disease, along with chorioretinitis, erythema nodosum, and cardiomyopathy. High local and circulating cobalt and chromium levels established the diagnosis. The patient underwent extensive debridement and implant revision. One year postoperatively, she had no respiratory symptoms or functional impairment. Local and systemic complications of metallosis after hip arthroplasty should be promptly recognized and treated operatively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/4a/hp-28-249.PMC5240319.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3861871", "abstract": "Tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors may induce various cutaneous side effects including eczematous-like lesions. The management of such side effects can be challenging. Herein, we report a case of a 55-year-old man who had a flare-up and subsequent improvement of atopic dermatitis during treatment of severe psoriasis with adalimumab.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/63/e0/cde-0005-0332.PMC3861871.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3320018", "abstract": "Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a gradual decline in memory associated with shrinkage of brain tissue, with localized loss of neurons mainly in the hippocampus and basal forebrain, with diminished level of central cholinergic neurotransmitter-acetylcholine and also reported to be associated with accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins in neuronal inclusions and also with signs of inflammation. In these disorders, the abnormal protein aggregates may themselves trigger the expression of inflammatory mediators, such as cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2). In the present study, the effects of Meloxicam, Selegiline, and coadministration of these drugs on scopolamine-induced learning and memory impairments in mice were investigated. Rectangular maze test, Morris water maze test, Locomotor activity, and Pole climbing test were conducted to evaluate the learning and memory parameters. Various biochemical parameters such as acetylcholinesterase(AChE), TBARS assay, catalase activity, and DPPH assay were also assessed. The present study demonstrates that Meloxicam, Selegiline, and co-administration of these test drugs had potential therapeutic effects on improving the antiamnesic activity in mice through inhibiting lipid peroxidation, augmenting endogenous antioxidant enzymes, and decreasing acetylcholinesterase activity in brain. The memory enhancing capacity of the drugs was very significant when compared to disease control (P < 0.001).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a7/77/PMC3320018.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2667599", "abstract": "Objective To determine the efficacy and outcome of percutaneous treatment in restoring the function of failed native arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) where pulse-spray pharmacomechanical thrombolysis was used as the primary mode of therapy. Materials and Methods From June 2001 to July 2005, 14 patients who had thrombosis of native AVFs underwent percutaneous restoration following 20 episodes of thrombosis. These included 6 repeated episodes in one forearm AVF and two episodes in another forearm AVF. All patients except one were treated with urokinase injection utilizing the pulse-spray technique and had subsequent balloon angioplasty. One patient was treated by percutaneous angioplasty alone. We retrospectively evaluated the feasibility of percutaneous treatment in restoring the function of the failed AVFs. The primary and secondary patencies were calculated by using a Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results Both technical and clinical success were achieved in 15 (75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/7e/kjr-7-180.PMC2667599.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5141523", "abstract": "Objective: To describe the clinical, genetic, and epidemiologic features of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) in Canada and to determine which clinical, radiologic, and genetic factors determine functional outcomes for patients with HSP. Methods: We conducted a multicenter observational study of patients who met clinical criteria for the diagnosis of HSP in the provinces of Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec from 2012 to 2015. Characteristics of the participants were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The main outcome measure for a subset of the cohort (n = 48) was the Spastic Paraplegia Rating Scale. We also used the SPATAX-EUROSPA disability stage (disability score) to assess disability (n = 65). Results: A total of 526 patients were identified with HSP across the country, and 150 patients had a confirmed genetic diagnosis. Mutations were identified in 15 different genes; the most common were SPAST (SPG4, 48", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/7b/NG2016003152.PMC5141523.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5131458", "abstract": "Background The One Health (OH) concept, formerly referred to as ‘One Medicine’ in the later part of the 20th century, has gained exceptional popularity in the early 21st century, and numerous academic and non-academic institutions have developed One Health programs. Objectives To summarize One Health training, research, and outreach activities originating in North America. Methods We used data from extensive electronic records maintained by the One Health Commission (OHC) (www.onehealthcommission.org/) and the One Health Initiative (www.onehealthinitiative.com/) and from web-based searches, combined with the corporate knowledge of the authors and their professional contacts. Finally, a call was released to members of the OHC's Global One Health Community listserv, asking that they populate a Google document with information on One Health training, research, and outreach activities in North American academic and non-academic institutions. Results A current snapshot of North American One Health training, research, and outreach activities as of August 2016 has evolved. Conclusions It is clear that the One Health concept has gained considerable recognition during the first decade of the 21st century, with numerous current training and research activities carried out among North American academic, non-academic, government, corporate, and non-profit entities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6f/4e/IEE-6-33680.PMC5131458.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4691519", "abstract": "Decidualized ovarian endometrioma is a rare phenomenon in pregnancy, which can mimic ovarian malignancy in imaging and often poses a diagnostic challenge. We report a case of a large ruptured decidualized ovarian endometrioma in a 15 weeks gestation patient, and we will describe the imaging characteristics (ultrasonography and MR imaging findings) and the histopathological findings (macro- and microscopically).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/5b/iranjradiol-12-04-21260.PMC4691519.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3311170", "abstract": "During 2007–2009, we tested serum samples from 2,004 pregnant women living in an area of high Q fever incidence in the Netherlands. Results confirmed that presence of antibodies against Coxiella burnetii is related to proximity to infected dairy goat farms. Pregnant women and patients with certain cardiovascular conditions should avoid these farms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/37/21/PMC3311170.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4449860", "abstract": "Background: Enterococcal species have emerged as important pathogens in Iran as well as throughout the world. With the increased use of vancomycin, Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE) has become an important nosocomial pathogen. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to determine the incidence and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of VRE and also to determine the most important genes that cause resistance to vancomycin in clinical samples in Arak, Iran. Materials and Methods: In total, 200 enterococci samples were collected from clinical specimens of Arak hospitals. Enterococcal species were identified using standard biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility was tested by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) disk diffusion. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MICs) was determined by broth micro dilution. All of the VRE isolates were examined by PCR to detect the presence of VRE genes. Results: Disk diffusion agar showed that 96 strains (48", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/02/2d/jjm-08-04-16287.PMC4449860.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5088144", "abstract": "[Purpose] The number of bedridden patients requiring nursing care in Japan has increased sharply in recent years because of its aging population and advances in medical care and has become a major social issue. Because bedridden patients are susceptible to nursing and healthcare-associated pneumonia, it is very important to improve their immunocompetence. Therefore, the effect of exercise therapy on stimulation of cytokine secretion in the saliva of bedridden patients was investigated. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects of this study were bedridden patients admitted to nursing care facilities. They were instructed to perform active assistive movement in the supine and sitting positions, with vital signs used as an index of the exercise load. Thirty-five patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria, which included cerebrovascular disease as the main cause of being bedridden and at least 6 months since onset. Interleukins were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay as immune mediators. [Results] Vital signs improved significantly after therapeutic exercise intervention, and the IL-6, IL-8, IL-15, and IL-17 levels also increased significantly after the intervention. [Conclusion] The results demonstrated that measurement of saliva samples may offer a safe minimally invasive method of measuring immune response in bedridden patients. This study suggests that exercise therapy may hold promise as an effective means of improving immunity in bedridden patients and may contribute to preventing aspiration pneumonia and promoting spontaneous recovery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a7/01/jpts-28-2871.PMC5088144.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3465763", "abstract": "Gemination, a relatively uncommon dental anomaly, is characterized by its peculiar representation as a tooth with a bifid crown and a common root and root canal. It usually occurs in primary dentition. To come across gemination in a supernumerary tooth is a rare phenomenon. The purpose of this paper is to present a unique case of hyperdontia wherein gemination in an impacted supernumerary tooth resulted in a trifid crown unlike the usual bifid crown. The role of conventional radiographs as well as computed tomography, to accurately determine the morphology and spatial location, and to arrive at a diagnosis, is also emphasized in this paper.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/56/a0/isd-42-197.PMC3465763.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4599492", "abstract": "Background Most patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) require rate control; however, the optimal target heart rate remains under debate. We aimed to assess rate control and subsequent outcomes among patients with permanent AF. Methods and Results We studied 2812 US outpatients with permanent AF in the Outcomes Registry for Better Informed Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation. Resting heart rate was measured longitudinally and used as a time-dependent covariate in multivariable Cox models of all-cause and cause-specific mortality during a median follow-up of 24 months. At baseline, 7.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e6/6d/jah30004-e002031.PMC4599492.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4559537", "abstract": "A rare case of acute avulsion of both posterior meniscal roots concomitant with an acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in a professional soccer player is described. While avulsion of the lateral meniscal root has been extensively reported in association with ACL injuries, medial root avulsion has never been reported in association with acute ACL. A review of the video documentation of the match accident revealed the exact mechanism of injury was a forceful external rotation of the standing limb.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/b3/PMC4559537.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4498322", "abstract": "Objectives: The restorative properties of platelets, through the local release of growth factors, are used in various medical areas. This article reviews fundamental and clinical research relating to platelet-rich plasma applied to tendinous lesions. Materials and method: Articles in French and English, published between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2014. dealing with PRP and tendons were searched for using the Medline and Scopus data bases. Results: Forty-seven articles were identified which addressed pre-clinical and clinical studies: 27 relating to in vitro and in vivo animal studies and 20 relating to human studies. Of these, five addressed lateral epicondylitis, two addressed rotator cuff tendinopathies, ten dealt with patellar tendinopathies and three looked at Achilles tendinopathies. Conclusions: The majority of pre-clinical studies show that PRP stimulates the tendon’s healing process. However, clinical series remain more controversial and level 1, controlled, randomised studies are still needed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/03/61/PMC4498322.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2859026", "abstract": "Advances have been made in treatment and outcomes for pediatric cancer. However adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer have not experienced similar relative improvements. We undertook a study to develop the methodology necessary for epidemiologic cancer research in these age groups. Our goal was to create the Kids, Adolescents, and Young Adults Cancer (KAYAC) project to create a resource to address research questions relevant to this population. We used a combination of clinic and population-based ascertainment to enroll 111 cases aged 0–39 for this methodology development study. The largest groups of cancer types enrolled include: breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and melanoma. The overall participation rate is 69.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8f/4e/PMC2859026.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3016787", "abstract": "While newly available electronic transmission methods can increase timeliness and completeness of infectious disease reports, limitations of this technology may unintentionally compromise detection of, and response to, bioterrorism and other outbreaks. We reviewed implementation experiences for five electronic laboratory systems and identified problems with data transmission, sensitivity, specificity, and user interpretation. The results suggest a need for backup transmission methods, validation, standards, preserving human judgment in the process, and provider and end-user involvement. As illustrated, challenges encountered in deployment of existing electronic laboratory reporting systems could guide further refinement and advances in infectious disease surveillance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3b/7d/PMC3016787.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3226312", "abstract": "Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a syndrome that is associated with a major burden of morbidity and mortality in a variety of high risk patient populations, many of them cared for by intensivists. Following renal transplantation, delayed graft function (DGF) caused by severe acute tubular necrosis (ATN), defined by a requirement for dialysis during the initial post-transplant week, complicates postoperative management, and if prolonged (>14 days), adversely affects allograft survival. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and other novel biomarkers can detect AKI earlier than serum creatinine, and can predict AKI severity in high risk patient populations, including kidney transplant recipients. Hollmen and colleagues now demonstrate that elevated urine NGAL in deceased kidney donors is a significant risk factor for prolonged post-transplant DGF in recipients. These findings have clear implications with regard to potentially improved assessment of deceased donor suitability for potential renal allograft donation. These findings are also consistent with the growing evidence that severe ATN diagnosed by markedly elevated levels of AKI biomarkers is a useful predictor of the requirement for acute renal replacement therapy in AKI patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7b/76/PMC3226312.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4431024", "abstract": "Spontaneous cervical epidural hematoma (SCEH) is a rare clinical entity and has a varied etiology. Urgent surgical decompression should be done to prevent serious permanent neurologic deficits. We describe a 59-year-old female who presented with Brown-Sequard syndrome due to spontaneous cervical epidural hematoma. Initially, she was misdiagnosed as cerebrovascular accident. Cervical magnetic resonance imaging revealed epidural hematoma to the right of the spinal cord extending from C3 to C6. She later underwent surgical evacuation and had complete restoration of neurologic function. The outcome in SCEH is essentially determined by the time taken from onset of the symptom to operation. Therefore, early and precise diagnosis such as careful history taking and MRI evaluation is mandatory.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/77/2e/kjs-9-297.PMC4431024.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3144696", "abstract": "The expression of type X collagen (COL X), a late-stage chondrocyte hypertrophy marker in human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from osteoarthritis (OA) patients poses a major setback to current cartilage and intervertebral disc tissue engineering efforts. However, it is not yet clear whether COL X is expressed by all human bone marrow stem cells or if it is related to age, gender, site, disease status, or drug therapy. In the current study, we report that COL X expression is upregulated in MSCs from rabbits in a surgical instability model of OA (anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT)) when compared to control rabbit MSCs. Thus COL X expression in OA is a common phenomenon that is due to the disease process itself and not to other environmental factors. It is, therefore, critical to understand MSC phenotype in OA patients, as these cells are essential clinically for biological repair of cartilage lesions using autologous stem cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/31/58/PMC3144696.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3670289", "abstract": "Multiple lines of evidence suggest that the transcription factor STAT3 is linked to a protective and reparative response in the heart. Thus, increasing duration or intensity of STAT3 activation ought to minimize damage and improve heart function under conditions of stress. Two recent studies using genetic mouse models, however, report findings that appear to refute this proposition. Unfortunately, studies often approach the question of the role of STAT3 in the heart from the perspective that all STAT3 signaling is equivalent, particularly when it comes to signaling by IL-6 type cytokines, which share the gp130 signaling protein. Moreover, STAT3 activation is typically equated with phosphorylation of a critical tyrosine residue. Yet, STAT3 transcriptional behavior is subject to modulation by serine phosphorylation, acetylation, and redox status of the cell. Unphosphorylated STAT3 is implicated in gene induction as well. Thus, how STAT3 is activated and also what other signaling events are occurring at the same time is likely to impact on the outcome ultimately linked to STAT3. Notably STAT3 may serve as a scaffold protein allowing it to interact with other singling pathways. In this context, canonical gp130 cytokine signaling may function to integrate STAT3 signaling with a protective PI3K/AKT signaling network via mutual involvement of JAK tyrosine kinases. Differences in the extent of integration may occur between those cytokines that signal through gp130 homodimers and those through heterodimers of gp130 with a receptor α chain. Signal integration may have importance not only for deciding the particular gene profile linked to STAT3, but for the newly described mitochondrial stabilization role of STAT3 as well. In addition, disruption of integrated gp130-related STAT3 signaling may occur under conditions of oxidative stress, which negatively impacts on JAK catalytic activity. For these reasons, understanding the importance of STAT3 signaling to heart function requires a greater appreciation of the plasticity of this transcription factor in the context in which it is investigated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/90/7c/jkst-1-101.PMC3670289.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4094576", "abstract": "Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or progressive loss of β-cell function. T2DM patients are at increased risk of micro- and macrovascular disease, and are often considered as representing an atherosclerotic coronary heart disease (CHD) risk equivalent. Interventions directed at glucose and lipid level control in T2DM patients may reduce micro- and macrovascular disease. The optimal T2DM agent is one that lowers glucose levels with limited risk for hypoglycemia, and with no clinical trial evidence of worsening CHD risk. Lipid-altering drugs should preferably reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein B (apo B) and have evidence that the mechanism of action reduces CHD risk. Statins reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apo B and have evidence of improving CHD outcomes, and are thus first-line therapy for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. In patients who do not achieve optimal lipid levels with statin therapy, or who are intolerant to statin therapy, add-on therapy or alternative therapies may be indicated. Additional available agents to treat hypercholesterolemic patients with T2DM include bile acid sequestrants, fibrates, niacin, and ezetimibe. This review discusses the use of these alternative agents to treat hypercholesterolemia in patients with T2DM, either as monotherapy or in combination with statin therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/d0/ijgm-7-355.PMC4094576.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4835459", "abstract": "Background: Toxoplasmosis is considered as one of the most common infectious diseases caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Tachyzoite is the main form of Toxoplasma and continuously is maintained in cell culture or injected into the mice peritoneal cavity. This study was designed to evaluate the survival rate of RH strain of T. gondii tachyzoites in different cell free, nutrient and biological media at different temperatures. Methods: This experimental study was performed at the Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran, in 2010. One ml of each solution including hypotonic saline (0.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9f/6d/PMC4835459.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3606777", "abstract": " Objective. To study the clinical and pathological characteristics of patients with organized hematoma with malignant features in maxillary sinuses. Subjects and Methods. This was a retrospective study of five patients who were treated surgically for organized hematoma. The preoperative CT and MRI findings were studied clinically. The expressions of CD31, CD34, and periostin in surgical samples were investigated by immunohistochemistry. Results. The clinical features of organized hematoma, such as a mass expanding from the maxillary sinus with bone destruction, resembled those of maxillary carcinoma. However, CT and MRI provided sufficient and useful information to differentiate this condition from malignancy. Surgical resection was the first-line treatment because of the presence of a firm capsule. Characteristic histopathological findings were a mixture of dilated vessels, hemorrhage, fibrin exudation, fibrosis, hyalinization, and neovascularization. The expressions of periostin, CD31, and CD34 were observed in organized hematoma of the maxillary sinus. Conclusion. The expressions of periostin, CD31, and CD34 were observed in organized hematoma of the maxillary sinus. Organized hematoma is characterized pathologically by a mixture of bleeding, dilated vessels, hemorrhage, fibrin exudation, fibrosis, hyalinization, and neovascularization. CT and MRI show heterogeneous findings reflecting a mixture of these pathological entities. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/53/b2/PMC3606777.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2172751", "abstract": "Classical cadherin adhesion molecules are key determinants of cell recognition and tissue morphogenesis, with diverse effects on cell behavior. Recent developments indicate that classical cadherins are adhesion-activated signaling receptors. In particular, early–immediate Rac signaling is emerging as a mechanism to coordinate cadherin–actin integration at the plasma membrane.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ca/b4/200208156.PMC2172751.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2229559", "abstract": "Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections with genotype 2 or 3 are associated with favourable sustained virologic response (SVR) rates. However, genotype 3 may respond less well. We reassessed all treatment-naive patients with genotype 2 and 3 participating in a large expanded-access, non-randomized, open-label trial, evaluating 180μg pegylated interferon (peg-IFN) alpha-2a (40kD) once weekly and 800 mg/day ribavirin for 24–48 weeks. Factors measured prior to initiation of antiviral therapy were considered in the multiple logistic regression model for predicting SVR. In total, 180 patients were analysed of which 72 (40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/94/00/PMC2229559.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3691373", "abstract": "Double tooth is a dental anomaly consequent to fusion of two or more teeth or gemination of a single tooth. This report describes a unique case of double tooth in relation to a mandibular lateral incisor exhibiting the presence of four root canals. The role of conventional radiography and advanced three-dimensional imaging techniques in the better assessment of complex root canal systems and their aid in endodontic management has also been highlighted.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ef/18/isd-43-123.PMC3691373.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4354507", "abstract": "Background In cosmetic science, noninvasive sampling of the upper part of the stratum corneum is conveniently performed using strippings with adhesive-coated discs (SACD) and cyanoacrylate skin surface strippings (CSSSs). Methods Under controlled conditions, it is possible to scrutinize SACD and CSSS with objectivity using appropriate methods of analytical morphology. These procedures apply to a series of clinical conditions including xerosis grading, comedometry, corneodynamics, corneomelametry, corneosurfametry, corneoxenometry, and dandruff assessment. Results With any of the analytical evaluations, SACD and CSSS provide specific salient information that is useful in the field of cosmetology. In particular, both methods appear valuable and complementary in assessing the human skin compatibility of personal skincare products. Conclusion A set of quantitative analytical methods applicable to the minimally invasive and low-cost SACD and CSSS procedures allow for a sound assessment of cosmetic effects on the stratum corneum. Under regular conditions, both methods are painless and do not induce adverse events. Globally, CSSS appears more precise and informative than the regular SACD stripping.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/79/7c/ccid-8-113.PMC4354507.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2938072", "abstract": "As a steroid hormone that regulates mineral homeostasis and bone metabolism, 1α, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol) also has broad spectrum anti-tumor activities as supported by numerous epidemiological and experimental studies. Calcitriol potentiates the anti-tumor activities of multiple chemotherapeutics agents including DNA-damaging agents cisplatin, carboplatin and doxorubicin; antimetabolites 5-fluorouracil, cytarabine, hydroxyurea, cytarabine and gemcitabine; and microtubule-disturbing agents paclitaxel and docetaxel. Calcitriol elicits anti-tumor effects mainly through the induction of cancer cell apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, differentiation, angiogenesis and the inhibition of cell invasiveness by a number of mechanisms. Calcitriol enhances the cytotoxic effects of gamma irradiation and certain antioxidants and naturally derived compounds. Inhibition of calcitriol metabolism by 24-hydroxylase promotes growth inhibition effect of calcitriol. Calcitriol has been used in a number of clinical trials and it is important to note that sufficient dose and exposure to calcitriol is critical to achieve anti-tumor effect. Several trials have demonstrated that safe and feasible to administer high doses of calcitriol through intermittent regimen. Further well designed clinical trials should be conducted to better understand the role of calcitriol in cancer therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1d/39/jcav01p0101.PMC2938072.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4860437", "abstract": "Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy has been proven to be a safe operation associated with a low complication rate and good long-term results comparable to those obtained by the thoracotomy approach. During the development of thoracoscopic anatomical lung cancer resections, eligibility criteria for the operation have been gradually extended. Currently, even as complicated cases as bronchial and vascular sleeve resections or pneumonectomies are being performed by VATS. However, minimally invasive surgery after previous coronary artery bypass graft surgery merits special consideration due to the consequences of potential injury to the bypass graft. This is particularly important in the case of VATS left upper lobectomy after left internal mammary artery grafting to the left anterior descending artery bypass.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/f1/KITP-13-58967.PMC4860437.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4800463", "abstract": "The sinuses are common sites of infection in children, and if clinical presentation is delayed, there is a high risk of complications including intracranial spread. We present a case of a 5-year-old boy who presented with non-specific symptoms of sinusitis. He went on to develop osteomyelitis of the frontal bone and a subperiosteal abscess known as Pott's puffy tumour. Whilst computed tomography provides an excellent initial imaging, this case report emphasizes the advantages of magnetic resonance imaging, especially when there is extensive involvement of the sinuses with an absence of ionizing radiation. Prompt surgical treatment is imperative as there is a potential for significant morbidity if not quickly diagnosed and treated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/80/rjw038.PMC4800463.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4545023", "abstract": "Electroencephalogram (EEG) has been traditionally used to determine which brain regions are the most likely candidates for resection in patients with focal epilepsy. This methodology relies on the assumption that seizures originate from the same regions of the brain from which interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) emerge. Preclinical models are very useful to find correlates between IED locations and the actual regions underlying seizure initiation in focal epilepsy. Rats have been commonly used in preclinical studies of epilepsy1; hence, there exist a large variety of models for focal epilepsy in this particular species. However, it is challenging to record multichannel EEG and to perform brain source imaging in such a small animal. To overcome this issue, we combine a patented-technology to obtain 32-channel EEG recordings from rodents2 and an MRI probabilistic atlas for brain anatomical structures in Wistar rats to perform brain source imaging. In this video, we introduce the procedures to acquire multichannel EEG from Wistar rats with focal cortical dysplasia, and describe the steps both to define the volume conductor model from the MRI atlas and to uniquely determine the IEDs. Finally, we validate the whole methodology by obtaining brain source images of IEDs and compare them with those obtained at different time frames during the seizure onset.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1d/d7/jove-100-52700.PMC4545023.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3663317", "abstract": "Background Cytomegalovirus is an important infection in kidney Transplantation. Isolation of the CMV virus or detection of its proteins or nucleic acid in any body fluid or tissue specimen is defined as “CMV infection”. Case Presentation A 10-year-old girl was admitted frequently for vomiting and colicky watery diarrhea starting one month after renal transplantation from a non-relative living donor. Cr, BUN, serum electrolytes and also liver function tests were normal. Anti CMV IgM titer was negative before and after transplantation. On colonoscopy large aphthous like lesions were detected in the colon. CMV PCR of the lesion was strongly positive (>2000 copies/ml). The patient received Ganciclovir. Conclusion Usually CMV infected patients present with renal dysfunction after renal transplantation but other organ involvements must not be ignored. We report a patient presenting only with intestinal signs and symptoms of CMV infection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/0d/IJPD-23-220.PMC3663317.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4211514", "abstract": "Tumor responses in advanced basal cell carcinoma (BCC) have been observed in clinical trials with vismodegib, a SMO antagonist. The result of SMO antagonism is inhibition Hedgehog Signaling Pathway (HHSP) downstream target genes. HHSP inhibition has been shown to affect stem cells responsible for blood, mammary, and neural development. We report on our experience of treating two patients with advanced BCC participating. These two patients have had no new BCCs develop for at least 2.25 years. Both patients have been receiving ongoing daily treatment with vismodegib for greater than 2.75 years without experiencing any significant side effects. After prolonged continuous daily dosing with a SMO antagonist, we have not observed a significant alteration in hematologic parameters or physical abnormalities of the pectoral regions of two patients with advanced BCC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/24/4c/PMC4211514.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3328160", "abstract": "Research focusing on the introduction of daily mouth care programs for dependent older adults in long-term care has met with limited success. There is a need for greater awareness about the importance of oral health, more education for those providing oral care, and organizational structures that provide policy and administrative support for daily mouth care. The purpose of this paper is to describe the establishment of an oral care action plan for long-term care using an interdisciplinary collaborative approach. Methods. Elements of a program planning cycle that includes assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation guided this work and are described in this paper. Findings associated with assessment and planning are detailed. Assessment involved exploration of internal and external factors influencing oral care in long-term care and included document review, focus groups and one-on-one interviews with end-users. The planning phase brought care providers, stakeholders, and researchers together to design a set of actions to integrate oral care into the organizational policy and practice of the research settings. Findings. The establishment of a meaningful and productive collaboration was beneficial for developing realistic goals, understanding context and institutional culture, creating actions suitable and applicable for end-users, and laying a foundation for broader networking with relevant stakeholders and health policy makers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/ec/PMC3328160.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4151370", "abstract": " Background. The aim of the study was to assess the relationships among serum neopterin (NPT), β2-microglobulin (β2-M) levels, clinical status, and endomyocardial biopsy results of dilated cardiomyopathy patients (DCM). Methods. Serum NPT and β-2 M were determined in 172 nonischaemic DCM patients who underwent right ventricular endomyocardial biopsy and 30 healthy subjects (ELISA test). The cryostat biopsy specimens were assessed using histology, immunohistology, and immunochemistry methods (HLA ABC, HLA DR expression, CD3 + lymphocytes, and macrophages counts). Results. The strong increase of HLA ABC or HLA DR expression was detected in 27.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/fe/PMC4151370.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3382959", "abstract": "The integrity of the vascular endothelium of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is central to cerebrovascular homeostasis. Given the function of the BBB as a physical and metabolic barrier that buffers the systemic environment, oxidative damage to the endothelial monolayer will have significant deleterious impact on the metabolic, immunological, and neurological functions of the brain. Glutathione (GSH) is a ubiquitous major thiol within mammalian cells that plays important roles in antioxidant defense, oxidation-reduction reactions in metabolic pathways, and redox signaling. The existence of distinct GSH pools within the subcellular organelles supports an elegant mode for independent redox regulation of metabolic processes, including those that control cell fate. GSH-dependent homeostatic control of neurovascular function is relatively unexplored. Significantly, GSH regulation of two aspects of endothelial function is paramount to barrier preservation, namely, GSH protection against oxidative endothelial cell injury and GSH control of postdamage cell proliferation in endothelial repair and/or wound healing. This paper highlights our current insights and hypotheses into the role of GSH in cerebral microvascular biology and pathobiology with special focus on endothelial GSH and vascular integrity, oxidative disruption of endothelial barrier function, GSH regulation of endothelial cell proliferation, and the pathological implications of GSH disruption in oxidative stress-associated neurovascular disorders, such as diabetes and stroke.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/da/PMC3382959.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3516826", "abstract": "Raltegravir, the first approved HIV-1 integrase inhibitor, is able to block the strand transfer step of the HIV proviral DNA integration process into the cellular host DNA. The selected dosage for the pivotal phase III studies (subsequently approved by the regulatory agencies) was 400 mg bid by oral route with or without food. Raltegravir has a week effect (either inhibition or induction) on the hepatic cytochrone P450 activity. There is not need of dose adjustments in renal insufficiency or in mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment. The emerging paradigm in the field of salvage therapy was to achieve a viral load below limit of detection in almost all patients. Pretty soon it became apparent that this was feasible in more than 70-90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bc/91/PMC3516826.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2688106", "abstract": "Metformin is commonly used in diabetes mellitus type 2, with lactic acidosis being a rare but potentially fatal complication of this therapy. The management of metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA) is controversial. Treatment may include supportive care, activated charcoal, bicarbonate infusion, hemodialysis, or continuous venovenous hemofiltration. In the previous issue of Critical Care, Peters and colleagues systematically evaluated outcomes in MALA patients admitted to their intensive care unit. The mortality rate of patients who received dialysis was similar to that of patients who were not dialyzed. However, it was the more acutely and chronically ill patients who actually received dialysis. This suggests that hemodialysis was beneficial in preventing a higher mortality rate in those who required renal replacement therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/6b/PMC2688106.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3981387", "abstract": "Septic arthritis of the pubic symphysis is a rare disease. Typical clinical features include fever, pubic or groin pain, pain with hip motion, and painful or waddling gait. Identified predisposing factors to develop an infection in pubic joint include female incontinence surgery or postpartum period; sports, especially soccer; pelvic malignancy; and intravenous drug abuse. The most often identified microorganisms were Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Osteomyelitis complicates the majority of cases, and about half of the patients require surgical debridement along with a prolonged antibiotic treatment. We report a case of Streptococcus anginosus septic arthritis of the pubic symphysis. The patient did not have any of the above risk factors.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/9d/PMC3981387.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4067706", "abstract": "We report a case of immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related retroperitoneal fibrosis (RF) with complete remission and no relapses after therapy with steroids and Hochuekkito, a Kampo (i.e. traditional Japanese herbal) medicine. A 62-year-old Japanese man was admitted to our hospital for treatment of a retroperitoneal mass detected by computed tomography. The mass had a maximum diameter of 11.0 cm; it involved the left ureter and was associated with left hydronephrosis. After inserting a ureteral stent, we performed a biopsy by laparotomy. Histopathology revealed IgG4-related RF. The lesion disappeared after 7 months of steroid therapy. We subsequently used Hochuekkito as an alternative maintenance treatment because of steroid-related complications. The patient has not relapsed in the 3 years since starting the medication. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of IgG4-related RF treated with Hochuekkito as a maintenance treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/60/crg-0008-0193.PMC4067706.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3427280", "abstract": "Early life experiences, including those in utero, have been linked to increased risk for adult-onset chronic disease. The underlying assumption is that there is a critical period of developmental plasticity in utero when selection of the fetal phenotype that is best adapted to the intrauterine environment occurs. The current study is the first to test the idea that extreme maternal psychosocial stressors, as observed in the Democratic Republic of Congo, may modify locus-specific epigenetic marks in the newborn resulting in altered health outcomes. Here we show a significant correlation between culturally relevant measures of maternal prenatal stress, newborn birth weight and newborn methylation in the promoter of the glucocorticoid receptor NR3C1. Increased methylation may constrain plasticity in subsequent gene expression and restrict the range of stress adaptation responses possible in affected individuals, thus increasing their risk for adult-onset diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/2b/epi-7-853.PMC3427280.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2741193", "abstract": "Objectives To investigate the effects of adhesion technique using different contemporary adhesive systems on the cuspal movement in class II composite restorations in human premolar teeth. Methods Human premolar teeth were prepared with class II cavities and then restored with composite and etch-and-rinse (Adper Scotchbond Multi Purpose and Adper Single Bond) or self-etch (Clearfil SE Bond and Clearfil S3 Bond) adhesive systems under different bonding techniques (total bonding and selective bonding). The influence of an intermediate layer of flowable composite was also evaluated. The cuspal distance was measured before and after the restorative procedure, and the difference was recorded as cuspal movement. The data were submitted to ANOVA test and Tukey’s post hoc comparison procedure test (alpha=0.05). Results For all adhesive systems, the teeth restored with selective bonding technique showed lower values of cuspal movement and the use of an intermediary layer of flowable composite did not show any influence on the cuspal movement. Conclusions Both the adhesive techniques tested were not able to prevent the cuspal movement. However, selectively bonded class II composite restorations demonstrated lower values of cuspal movement comparing with total bonding technique, and the use of an intermediate layer of flowable composite did not diminish the values of cuspal movement.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ba/b8/PMC2741193.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4124715", "abstract": "Intestinal ischemic reperfusion (I/R) can cause dysfunction of the intestinal mucosal barrier; however, the mechanism of the intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction caused by I/R remains unclear. In this study, using intestinal epithelial cells under anaerobic cultivation and an in vivo rat intestinal I/R model, we found that hypoxia and I/R increased the expression of BMP2/4 and upregulated BMP type Ia receptor and BMP type II receptor expression. We also found that exogenous BMP2/4 can activate the ERK and AKT signaling pathways in rat small intestine (IEC-6) cells, thereby activating NF-κB signaling, which leads to increased levels of inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α and IL-6. Furthermore, recombinant BMP2/4 decreased the expression of the tight junction protein occludin via the activation of the NF-κB pathway; these effects were abolished by treatment with the BMP-specific antagonist noggin or the NF-κB inhibitor pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC). All these factors can destroy the intestinal mucosal barrier, thereby leading to weaker barrier function. On the basis of these data, we conclude that BMP2/4 may act as the pathogenic basis for intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction when the intestines suffer an I/R injury. Our results provide background for the development pharmacologic interventions in the management of I/R injury.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b2/97/PMC4124715.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4075823", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE:  Wood smoke exposure is a risk factor for COPD. For a given degree of airway obstruction, the reduction in DLCO is smaller in individuals with wood smoke-related COPD than in those with smoking-related COPD, suggesting that there is less emphysema in the former. The objective of this study was to compare HRCT findings between women with wood smoke-related COPD and women with smoking-related COPD.  METHODS:  Twenty-two women with severe COPD (FEV1/FVC ratio < 70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/a6/1806-3713-jbpneu-39-02-00147.PMC4075823.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4652832", "abstract": "Abstract Inappropriate sinus tachycardia is defined as sinus tachycardia at rest (heart rate ≥100 bpm) in sitting position or/and as an average heart rate ≥90 bpm during 24-hour Holter monitoring. The most common symptoms are palpitation, dizziness, chest discomfort, orthostatic intolerance, and fatigue. Sometimes, the symptoms can be severe and debilitating, and its etiology is not well understood. Pharmacological approaches present limitation because of their relatively small effectiveness, intolerance, or side effects. In this series of cases of inappropriate sinus tachycardia, the authors report 3 cases refractory to conventional pharmacological therapy, in which the authors were not tempted for ablation of the sinus node. The authors, however, use another therapeutic approach, which was renal sympathetic denervation, to reduce sympathetic activity in the sinus node, and consequently reduce tachycardia with improvement of symptoms. Three months after renal sympathetic denervation, all patients were not using any type of medication, and reported no more symptoms. The authors know that this is the first report using the renal sympathetic denervation for the treatment of inappropriate sinus tachycardia. Studies with a larger number of patients, a longer time of follow-up, and a control group, however, should be performed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5b/a1/medi-94-e2094.PMC4652832.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4865132", "abstract": "Objective: To determine whether GGGGCC (G4C2) repeat expansions at loci other than C9orf72 serve as common causes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: We assessed G4C2 repeat number in 28 genes near known ALS and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) loci by repeat-primed PCR coupled with fluorescent fragment analysis in 199 patients with ALS (17 familial, 182 sporadic) and 136 healthy controls. We also obtained blood from patients with ALS4 for evaluation of repeats surrounding the SETX gene locus. C9orf72 expansions were evaluated in parallel. Results: Expansions of G4C2 repeats in C9orf72 explained 8.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/06/0c/NG2015001800.PMC4865132.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4096670", "abstract": "Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCMP) remains a life threatening disease in young patients and is often difficult to differentiate from myocarditis. Early recognition and treatment of DCMP are crucial for good prognoses in this patient population. The clinical course of patients with DCMP that result in cardiogenic shock varies according to the etiology as well as patient age. The volumetric expansion of the enlarged heart can compress adjacent structures causing a number of related symptoms, especially in infants with soft cartilaginous bronchi. Therapeutic strategies for treating these issues vary according to the type of complication encountered. We report a case of severe DCMP with sudden onset of massive cardiomegaly with heart failure complicated by bronchial obstruction in an infant.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/eb/28/jcu-22-84.PMC4096670.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4939665", "abstract": "Hepatic infarction is known as a rare disease entity in nontransplant patients. Although a few cases of hepatic infarction have been reported to be linked with invasive procedures, trauma, and hypercoagulability, a case of spontaneous hepatic infarction in a nontransplanted patient has hardly ever been reported. However, many clinical situations of patients with cancer, in particular biliary cancer, can predispose nontransplant patients to hepatic infarction. Besides, the clinical outcome of hepatic infarction in patients with cancer can be worse than in patients with other etiologies. As for treatment, anticoagulation treatment is usually recommended. However, because of its multifactorial etiology and combined complications, treatment of hepatic infarction is difficult and not simple. Herein, we report a case of fatal hepatic infarction that occurred spontaneously during the course of treatment in a patient with gallbladder cancer. Hepatic infarction should be considered as a possible fatal complication in patients during treatment of biliary malignancies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/90/36/cro-0009-0321.PMC4939665.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1824723", "abstract": "Giant cell arteritis predominantly affects cranial arteries and rarely involves other sites. We report a patient who presented with small bowel obstruction because of infarction from mesenteric giant cell arteritis. She had an unusual cause of her obstruction and a rare manifestation of giant cell arteritis. In spite of aggressive therapy with steroids, she died a month later because of multiple complications. We discuss the diagnosis and management of small bowel obstruction and differential diagnosis of vasculitis of the gastrointestinal tract. We were able to find 11 cases of bowel involvement with giant cell arteritis in the English literature. This case report illustrates that giant cell arteritis can be a cause of small bowel obstruction and bowel infarction. In the proper clinical setting, vasculitides need to be considered early in the differential diagnosis when therapy may be most effective.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/30/be/PMC1824723.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4996830", "abstract": "Background The efficacy and safety of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) and warfarin in Asian octogenarian atrial fibrillation (AF) patients have not been established in a real-world setting. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of NOACs and warfarin in Korean octogenarian patients. Methods A total of 293 consecutive patients aged ≥ 80 years with non-valvular AF who had taken either NOACs (148 cases, 50.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ff/07/jgc-13-07-566.PMC4996830.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3531932", "abstract": "Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α antibody is utilized in the treatment of a variety of chronic inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis. However, it can induce paradoxical development and/or exacerbation of psoriasis in the course of anti-TNF-α antibody treatment, which is sometimes refractory to conventional treatments. Herein, we report a case of refractory palmoplantar pustular psoriasis induced by anti-TNF-α antibody treatment, which was improved by treatment with a 308-nm excimer light. The 308-nm excimer light has less long-term risks than narrow-band UVB. The 308-nm excimer light may be a good therapeutic option for refractory psoriatic skin lesions induced by anti-TNF-α antibody therapy because of localized side effects without systemic problems, short length of treatment and low cumulative dosages of UV light.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/72/cde-0004-0261.PMC3531932.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4432523", "abstract": "Summary  Introduction: Lateral osteotomies play an important role in rhinoplasty and can be performed with different techniques.  Objective: To compare the results of narrowing of the nasal dorsum and base through 2 types of lateral osteotomy: continuous and microperforating.  Method: We selected 74 patients undergoing rhinoplasty: 37 patients underwent lateral continuous osteotomy and the other 37 underwent microperforating osteotomy, all performed by the same surgeon. We analyzed frontal photography from the pre- and post-operative (6 months) periods, evaluating the width of the nasal dorsum and base. This was a retrospective study.  Results and Conclusion: Using Student's t-test, statistical analysis concluded that there was a statistically significant difference in the post-operative narrowing of the nasal dorsum and base following both osteotomy techniques, and there was no statistically significant difference between the 2 techniques.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/84/65/PMC4432523.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4211916", "abstract": "Purpose To analyze the complications and costs of minilaparotomies performed by a nephrologist (group A) compared with conventional laparotomies performed by a surgeon (group B) for peritoneal catheter implantation. Setting Two university hospitals (Santa Sofia and Caldas) in Manizales, Caldas, Colombia. Methods The study included stage 5 chronic kidney disease patients, with indication of renal replacement therapy, who were candidates for peritoneal dialysis and gave informed consent for a peritoneal catheter implant. Minilaparotomies were performed by a nephrologist in a minor surgery room under local anesthesia. Conventional laparotomies were performed by a surgeon in an operating room under general anesthesia. Results Two nephrologists inserted 157 peritoneal catheters, and seven general surgeons inserted 185 peritoneal catheters. The groups had similar characteristics: the mean age was 55 years, 49.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/8a/ijnrd-7-383.PMC4211916.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3643079", "abstract": "DNA nanotechnology, the design and self-assembly of artificial nucleic acid-based structures or systems, has developed with breathtaking pace in recent years. The technology offers an unparalleled ability to control structure and function at the molecular level and the sizes of the structures are expanding towards the micrometer domain. The question is whether the technology offers solutions to any real-life problems, or if it will remain an academic discipline. Here, we discuss this question by extrapolating from recent developments in the field.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/54/biolrep-05-14.PMC3643079.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4204726", "abstract": "Background/Aims Ethanol administration causes intestinal epithelial cell damage by increasing intestinal permeability and the translocation of endotoxins from intestinal bacterial flora. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are associated with recovery and protection from cell damage. The aim of the current study was to investigate differences in the expression of HSPs in the small intestine and the biochemical changes attributable to ethanol-induced intestinal damage. Methods Ethanol (20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/db/ir-12-205.PMC4204726.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4444580", "abstract": " Introduction. Bipolar disorder (BD) implies risk of suicide. The age at onset (AAO) of BD carries prognostic significance. Substance abuse may precede the onset of BD and cannabis is the most common illicit drug used. The main goal of this study is to review the association of cannabis use as a risk factor for early onset of BD and for suicide attempts. Materials and Methods. PubMed database was searched for articles using key words “bipolar disorder,” “suicide attempts,” “cannabis,” “marijuana,” “early age at onset,” and “early onset.” Results. The following percentages in bipolar patients were found: suicide attempts 3.6–42", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d8/9e/PMC4444580.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4498880", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Differentiating hepatic portal venous gas (HPVG) and pneumobilia on the CT scan can be accomplished by comparing the pattern of intrahepatic air spread. HPVG can be an indicator of significant intra-abdominal pathology and bowel ischaemia is the most common causative etiology for HPVG.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/d9/ccr30003-0518.PMC4498880.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4539071", "abstract": " Background. Regular walking is critical to maintaining health in older age. We examined influences of individual and community factors on walking habits in older adults. Methods. We analyzed walking habits among participants of a prospective cohort study of 745 community-dwelling men and women, mainly aged 70 years or older. We estimated community variations in utilitarian and recreational walking, and examined whether the variations were attributable to community differences in individual and environmental factors. Results. Prevalence of recreational walking was relatively uniform while prevalence of utilitarian walking varied across the 16 communities in the study area. Both types of walking were associated with individual health and physical abilities. However, utilitarian walking was also strongly associated with several measures of neighborhood socioeconomic status and access to amenities while recreational walking was not. Conclusions. Utilitarian walking is strongly influenced by neighborhood environment, but intrinsic factors may be more important for recreational walking. Communities with the highest overall walking prevalence were those with the most utilitarian walkers. Public health promotion of regular walking should take this into account.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0e/21/PMC4539071.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5216252", "abstract": "Background Retinal detachment (RD) following ocular trauma often results in guarded visual prognosis and sometimes leads to loss of the eye. With the advent of microincisional vitrectomy surgery and the development of surgical techniques, the management of ocular trauma has been transformed. Case Presentation A 34-year-old man sustained an open globe injury from fragmented glass at work. He received primary repair and another follow-up surgery 9 days later, including vitrectomy, silicone oil tamponade, and lensectomy for RD and traumatic cataract at another medical center. However, his retina was totally detached and completely curled up in a roll with choroid on display when he was seen by us 1 month later. He was managed with vigilant and patient peeling and unfolding of the retina using a 23-gauge forceps and silicone oil tamponade, and achieved anatomical success and preservation of his eye at 6-month follow-up. Conclusions This report demonstrates that even in cases which appear to be hopeless at presentation, the surgeon's perseverance and surgical technique can salvage an eye that may otherwise be phthisical. It also encourages retinal surgeons to use microincisional vitrectomy to manage severe traumatic RD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/62/cop-0007-0198.PMC5216252.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3585024", "abstract": "Linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complexes span the double membrane of the nuclear envelope (NE) and physically connect nuclear structures to cytoskeletal elements. LINC complexes are envisioned as force transducers in the NE, which facilitate processes like nuclear anchorage and migration, or chromosome movements. The complexes are built from members of two evolutionary conserved families of transmembrane (TM) proteins, the SUN (Sad1/UNC-84) domain proteins in the inner nuclear membrane (INM) and the KASH (Klarsicht/ANC-1/SYNE homology) domain proteins in the outer nuclear membrane (ONM). In the lumen of the NE, the SUN and KASH domains engage in an intimate assembly to jointly form a NE bridge. Detailed insights into the molecular architecture and atomic structure of LINC complexes have recently revealed the molecular basis of nucleo-cytoskeletal coupling. They bear important implications for LINC complex function and suggest new potential and as yet unexplored roles, which the complexes may play in the cell.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/2f/nucl-4-29.PMC3585024.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4401238", "abstract": "AIM To study the role of Doppler imaging in prediction of high-risk pregnancies and their outcomes. METHODS AND MATERIAL This prospective study in a setup of tertiary-level care center includes 500 high-risk pregnant women from rural and urban sectors and evaluates the predictive values of various Doppler indices. RESULTS Out of 500 patients, 110 patients had abnormal Doppler among them, 70 patients had abnormal uterine artery Doppler, and 50 patients had abnormal umbilical artery Doppler flow indices. In all, 10 patients had both umbilical artery and uterine artery abnormal Doppler indices. When uterine artery was abnormal (70 patients), 20 patients had preeclampsia, 10 patients had pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), and 25 patients had intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Systolic/diastolic (S/D) ratio and notch had sensitivity of 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/98/ca/PMC4401238.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4717937", "abstract": "Background: Recent observational studies have shown that patients with higher Killips score (>I) have higher risk of new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) following acute myocardial infarction (AMI), while others drew a neutral conclusion. The ultimate predictive value of high Killips class on NOAF remained obscure. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register Databases were searched until February 2015. Of the 3732 initially identified studies, 5 observational studies with 10,053 patients were analyzed. Results: The meta-analysis of these studies showed that higher Killips score on admission was associated with higher incidence of NOAF following AMI (odds ratio = 2.29, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/98/85/CMJ-128-1964.PMC4717937.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5296392", "abstract": "A 22-years-old female patient at 171 cm and 67 kg visited the Department of Breast Surgery of the hospital with a mass accompanied with pain on the left side breast as chief complaints. Since physical examination revealed a suspected huge mass, breast surgeon decided to perform surgical excision and requested anesthesia to our department. Surgery of breast tumor is often under local anesthesia. However, in case of big size tumor, surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The patient feared general anesthesia. Unlike abdominal surgery, there is no need to control visceral pain for breast and anterior thoracic wall surgery. Therefore, we decided to perform resection under regional anesthesia. Herein, we report a successful anesthetic and pain management of the patient undergoing excision of a huge breast fibroadenoma under regional anesthesia using Pecs II and internal intercostal plane block.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/13/kjae-70-77.PMC5296392.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4062231", "abstract": "Lung cancer is one of the most common tumors worldwide. Pulmonary lesions detected during screening for lung cancer need to be evaluated further and tissue should be obtained. Bronchoscopy is often the first step to secure a histological diagnosis. Differ-ent guidance techniques are available to increase the diagnostic yield. Over the last few years endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) has been used increasingly to direct the sampling tools, often in combination with a guide sheath. This article offers a review of the literature of the use of EBUS in diagnosis of pulmonary peripheral lesions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/5f/EU-2-3.PMC4062231.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4033543", "abstract": "All of the over 1 million total joint replacements implanted in the US each year are expected to eventually fail after 15–25 years of use, due to slow progressive subtle inflammation at the bone implant interface. This inflammatory disease state is caused by implant debris acting, primarily, on innate immune cells, that is, macrophages. This slow progressive pathological bone loss or “aseptic loosening” is a potentially life-threatening condition due to the serious complications in older people (>75 yrs) of total joint replacement revision surgery. In some people implant debris (particles and ions from metals) can influence the adaptive immune system as well, giving rise to the concept of metal sensitivity. However, a consensus of studies agrees that the dominant form of this response is due to innate reactivity by macrophages to implant debris where both danger (DAMP) and pathogen (PAMP) signalling elicit cytokine-based inflammatory responses. This paper discusses implant debris induced release of the cytokines and chemokines due to activation of the innate (and the adaptive) immune system and the subsequent formation of osteolysis. Different mechanisms of implant-debris reactivity related to the innate immune system are detailed, for example, danger signalling (e.g., IL-1β, IL-18, IL-33, etc.), toll-like receptor activation (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α, etc.), apoptosis (e.g., caspases 3–9), bone catabolism (e.g., TRAP5b), and hypoxia responses (Hif1-α). Cytokine-based clinical and basic science studies are in progress to provide diagnosis and therapeutic intervention strategies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ac/e7/PMC4033543.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4590903", "abstract": " Purpose. In this study, the early and midterm clinical and radiological results of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery with or without the use of platelet rich plasma (PRP) focusing on the tunnel-widening phenomenon are evaluated. Methods. This is a double blind, prospective randomized study. 51 patients have completed the assigned protocol. Recruited individuals were divided into two groups: a group with and a group without the use of PRPs. Patients were assessed on the basis of MRI scans, which were performed early postoperatively and repeated at least one-year postoperatively. The diameter was measured at the entrance, at the bottom, and at the mid distance of the femoral tunnel. Results. Our study confirmed the existence of tunnel widening as a phenomenon. The morphology of the dilated tunnels was conical in both groups. There was a statistical significant difference in the mid distance of the tunnels between the two groups. This finding may support the role of a biologic response secondary to mechanical triggers. Conclusions. The use of RPRs in ACL reconstruction surgery remains a safe option that could potentially eliminate the biologic triggers of tunnel enlargement. The role of mechanical factors, however, remains important.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5b/31/PMC4590903.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5117946", "abstract": "Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of preoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings in patients with macular epiretinal membrane (ERM) for the planning of surgical strategy. Patients and methods One hundred twenty-three eyes of 121 patients (49 men, 72 women; mean age, 66 years) with an idiopathic ERM were enrolled. All patients underwent an ophthalmic examination including indirect ophthalmoscopy and OCT (Cirrus HD-OCT 4000 and/or 5000). OCT images obtained using model 4000 were transferred to the model 5000 system for vitreoretinal interface (VRI) analysis. The retinal thickness in each area, occurrence rate, and locations of the edges and partial detachments of the ERMs were evaluated using OCT. Results OCT detected identifiable edges in 61 (50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/44/opth-10-2297.PMC5117946.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5240488", "abstract": "The purpose of the article is to describe the various radiology consultation models in the Era of Precision Medicine. Since the inception of our specialty, radiologists have served as consultants to physicians of various disciplines. A variety of radiology consultation services have been described in the literature, including clinical decision support, patient-centric, subspecialty interpretation, and/or some combination of these. In oncology care in particular, case complexity often merits open dialogue with clinical providers. To explore the utility and impact of radiology consultation services in the academic setting, this article will further describe existing consultation models and the circumstances that precipitated their development. The hybrid model successful at our tertiary cancer center is discussed. In addition, the contributions of a consultant radiologist in breast cancer care are reviewed as the archetype of radiology consultation services provided to oncology practitioners.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e4/2f/kjr-18-18.PMC5240488.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4625658", "abstract": "The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and susceptibility to obesity. A previous study suggested that insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) may affect obesity and that IGFs regulate cellular signals by receptors that include the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) and the insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor (IGF2R). In this research, the rs3743262 and rs2229765 SNPs of IGF1R gene and rs629849 and rs1805075 SNPs of IG-F2R gene were genotyped in 120 overweight and obese patients with a BMI≥23 kg/m2 (Body Mass Index) and 123 healthy controls with a BMI of 18.5–23.0 kg/m2. Genotyping of each SNP was performed by direct sequencing. Among tested SNPs in IGF1R and IGF2R genes, rs629849 SNP of IGF2R gene showed significant association with obesity (OR=1.86, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f8/26/jer-11-5-282.PMC4625658.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3134251", "abstract": "The incidence of BK virus infection in kidney transplant recipients has increased over recent decades, coincident with the use of more potent immunosuppression. More importantly, posttransplant BK virus replication has emerged as an important cause of graft damage and subsequent graft loss. Immunosuppression has been accepted as a major risk for BK virus replication. However, the specific contribution of individual immunosuppressive medications to this risk has not been well established. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the recent literature on the influence of the various immunosuppressant drugs and drug combinations on posttransplant BK virus replication. Evidence supporting the various immunosuppression reduction strategies utilised in the management of BK virus will also be briefly discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f0/68/PMC3134251.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3228302", "abstract": "The incidence of thyroid cancer is rising in the United States with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) being the most common type. We performed a retrospective study of 49 patients with PTC who underwent 57 lateral neck dissections (NDs). The extent of NDs varied, but 29 of 57 (51", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e4/9b/PMC3228302.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3292400", "abstract": "Lyme disease (LD) is a complex, multisystemic illness. As the most common vector- borne disease in the United States, LD is caused by bacterial spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto, with potential coinfections from agents of anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and ehrlichiosis. Persistent symptoms and clinical signs reflect multiorgan involvement with episodes of active disease and periods of remission, not sparing the coveted central nervous system. The capability of microorganisms to cause and exacerbate various neuropsychiatric pathology is also seen in pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS), a recently described disorder attributed to bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus in which neurologic tics and obsessive-compulsive disorders are sequelae of the infection. In the current overview, LD and PANDAS are juxtaposed through a review of their respective infectious etiologies, clinical presentations, mechanisms of disease development, courses of illness, and treatment options. Future directions related to immunoneuropsychiatry are also discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a5/d0/PMC3292400.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3938140", "abstract": "Background The emphasis placed on the activities of mobile teams in the detection of gambiense human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) can at times obscure the major role played by fixed health facilities in HAT control and surveillance. The lack of consistent and detailed data on the coverage of passive case-finding and treatment further constrains our ability to appreciate the full contribution of the health system to the control of HAT. Methods A survey was made of all fixed health facilities that are active in the control and surveillance of gambiense HAT. Information on their diagnostic and treatment capabilities was collected, reviewed and harmonized. Health facilities were geo-referenced. Time-cost distance analysis was conducted to estimate physical accessibility and the potential coverage of the population at-risk of gambiense HAT. Results Information provided by the National Sleeping Sickness Control Programmes revealed the existence of 632 fixed health facilities that are active in the control and surveillance of gambiense HAT in endemic countries having reported cases or having conducted active screening activities during the period 2000-2012. Different types of diagnosis (clinical, serological, parasitological and disease staging) are available from 622 facilities. Treatment with pentamidine for first-stage disease is provided by 495 health facilities, while for second-stage disease various types of treatment are available in 206 health facilities only. Over 80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/df/e4/PMC3938140.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2824526", "abstract": "The molecular understanding of phenotypes caused by drugs in humans is essential for elucidating mechanisms of action and for developing personalized medicines. Side effects of drugs (also known as adverse drug reactions) are an important source of human phenotypic information, but so far research on this topic has been hampered by insufficient accessibility of data. Consequently, we have developed a public, computer-readable side effect resource (SIDER) that connects 888 drugs to 1450 side effect terms. It contains information on frequency in patients for one-third of the drug–side effect pairs. For 199 drugs, the side effect frequency of placebo administration could also be extracted. We illustrate the potential of SIDER with a number of analyses. The resource is freely available for academic research at http://sideeffects.embl.de.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6d/a3/msb200998.PMC2824526.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4797236", "abstract": "Objective To collect and analyze the 2-year follow-up clinical and MRI results of patients treated with an arthroscopic technique of collagen membrane-based meniscus repair. Design 53 consecutive patients with combined (horizontal and radial or longitudinal component) and complex meniscal tears (tear extended through avascular zones or/and composed with two or more morphological tear pattern) were treated with an “all-inside” arthroscopic suture of meniscus and wrapping with a collagen membrane (Chondro-Gide) technique with bone marrow blood injection. The IKDC 2000 subjective score, IKDC 2000 clinical evaluation score, Lysholm score and Barret clinical criteria of meniscal healing were recorded. All patients were examinated by MRI 2 years postoperatively, using modified WORMS criteria for meniscal integrity. Results The 2 year follow-up was achieved in 50 cases. Of these, 2 patients were excluded from the evaluation due to incomplete data and 2 patients underwent partial meniscectomy and were classified as failures. In 46 patients (86.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ab/f0/PMC4797236.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4722146", "abstract": "PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate occlusal contacts generated by 3 different biogeneric design modes (individual (BI), copy (BC), reference (BR)) of CEREC software and to assess the designs subjectively. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten pairs of maxillary and mandibular casts were obtained from full dentate individuals. Gypsum cast contacts were quantified with articulating paper and digital impressions were taken. Then, all ceramic crown preparation was performed on the left first molar teeth and digital impressions of prepared teeth were made. BI, BC, and BR crowns were designed. Occlusal images of designs including occlusal contacts were superimposed on the gypsum cast images and corresponding contacts were determined. Three designs were evaluated by the students. RESULTS The results of the study revealed that there was significant difference among the number of contacts of gypsum cast and digital models (P<.05). The comparison of the percentage of virtual contacts of three crown designs which were identical to the contacts of original gypsum cast revealed that BI and BR designs showed significantly higher percentages of identical contacts compared with BC design (P<.05). Subjective assessment revealed that students generally found BI designs and BR designs natural regarding naturalness of fissure morphology and cusp shape and cusp tip position. For general occlusal morphology, student groups generally found BI design \"too strong\" or \"perfect\", BC design \"too weak\", and BR design \"perfect\". CONCLUSION On a prepared tooth, three different biogeneric design modes of a CAD/CAM software reveals different crown designs regarding occlusal contacts and morphology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/76/jap-7-431.PMC4722146.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3816167", "abstract": "A 30-year-old female patient with known hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCMP) was admitted for recurrent syncope episodes. Electrocardiogram (ECG) showed 2 : 1 atrioventricular (AV) block. Stress echocardiography with bicycle showed high grade AV block at high stage of the exercise associated with exercise intolerance and dyspnea. Twenty-four hour ECG monitoring also revealed high grade AV block and 1 episode of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia. Implantable cardioverter/defibrillator-pacemaker (ICD-P) was inserted. After implantation of ICD-P, conduction disturbance and exercise intolerance were improved. AV block is a rare complication HCMP. There are just a few case reports that present symptoms caused by conduction disturbance in HCMP. This case describes repeated syncope episodes and exercise intolerance caused by conduction disturbance during exercise in HCMP patient. For evaluating the cause of syncope in HCMP, stress echocardiography can be helpful to understand the probable mechanism of syncope.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/7a/jcu-21-148.PMC3816167.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2816289", "abstract": "A 68-yr-old man complaining of sudden, postprandial chest pain visited the emergency room. His symptom had been aggravated during the preceding two days. Upper gastrointestinal contrast study with gastrographin showed leakage of dye from the epiphrenic diverticulum in the lower third of the esophagus. The primary repair was urgently carried out. Upper gastrointestinal contrast study 14 days after operation revealed an esophageal leakage which was small and confined. The patient was managed with conservative treatments such as intravenous hyperali-mentation and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Forty-two days after the operation, a gastrographin swallow study showed the absence of leaks. This is the first report-ed case of a perforated epiphrenic esophageal diverticulum repaired by delayed primary repair in Korea.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/13/jkms-19-887.PMC2816289.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2893967", "abstract": "Using the energy minimization calculations based on an interfacial potential and a first-principles total energy method, respectively, we show that (2 × 2)/(3 × 3) Pb/Cu(111) system is a stable structure among all the [(n − 1) × (n − 1)]/(n × n) Pb/Cu(111) (n = 2, 3,…, 12) structures. The electronic structure calculations indicate that self-organized ordered Pb semi-clusters arrays are formed on the first Pb monolayer of (2 × 2)/(3 × 3) Pb/Cu(111), which is due to a strain-release effect induced by the inherent misfits. The Pb semi-clusters structure can generate selective adsorption of atoms of semiconductor materials (e.g., Ge) around the semi-clusters, therefore, can be used as a template for the growth of nanoscale structures with a very short periodic length (7.67 Å).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/24/59/1556-276X-5-1020.PMC2893967.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3561483", "abstract": "Mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) are associated with serious human diseases and inherited from mother's eggs. Here we investigated the feasibility of mtDNA replacement in human oocytes by spindle transfer (ST). Of 106 human oocytes donated for research, 65 were subjected to reciprocal ST and 33 served as controls. Fertilization rate in ST oocytes (73", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6b/3f/PMC3561483.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4668155", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of the present study was to examine the impact of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) on dynamic ventilation maneuvers. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were 19 healthy female adults in their 20s who consented to participate in the present study. Electromyography (EMG) was used to examine respiratory muscle activity, and a spirometer was used to examine vital capacity before and during contraction of the PFM. [Results] There were statistically significant differences in the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique (EO), transverse abdominis/internal oblique (TrA/IO), and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) when the PFM was contracted. [Conclusion] Contraction of the PFM can be effective in promoting activation of the respiratory muscles and vital capacity. Therefore, the PFM should be considered to improve the effects of respiratory activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/78/jpts-27-3155.PMC4668155.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4819674", "abstract": "Introduction Patients with suspected pancreaticobiliary cancers frequently undergo endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to obtain brush cytology for confirmatory diagnosis. The outcome of this often leads to the management of the patient and can avoid more invasive investigations. There is a wide range of sensitivities and specificities reported in the literature. Aims To determine the accuracy of the brush cytology obtained at ERCP by performing a retrospective audit of all patients admitted to Guy's and St. Thomas’ Hospital for ERCP during 2008–2013. Also, to evaluate the impact of cytology results on patient care following ERCP. Method Data were collected from 4 January 2008 to 27 December 2013. This involved analysing EndoSoft (the in-house software for endoscopic data entry), Pathnet (the pathology database) and Electronic Patient Records. Results 162 patients underwent brush cytology during ERCP. 58 patients had positive cytology. With intention-to-treat analysis, sensitivity was 54.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6a/e6/flgastro-2015-100643.PMC4819674.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2808967", "abstract": "Much of the information on the Cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) is spread across literature and the internet. Aggregating knowledge about CYPs into one database makes the search more efficient. Text mining on 57 CYPs and drugs led to a mass of papers, which were screened manually for facts about metabolism, SNPs and their effects on drug degradation. Information was put into a database, which enables the user not only to look up a particular CYP and all metabolized drugs, but also to check tolerability of drug-cocktails and to find alternative combinations, to use metabolic pathways more efficiently. The SuperCYP database contains 1170 drugs with more than 3800 interactions including references. Approximately 2000 SNPs and mutations are listed and ordered according to their effect on expression and/or activity. SuperCYP (http://bioinformatics.charite.de/supercyp) is a comprehensive resource focused on CYPs and drug metabolism. Homology-modeled structures of the CYPs can be downloaded in PDB format and related drugs are available as MOL-files. Within the resource, CYPs can be aligned with each other, drug-cocktails can be ‘mixed’, SNPs, protein point mutations, and their effects can be viewed and corresponding PubMed IDs are given. SuperCYP is meant to be a platform and a starting point for scientists and health professionals for furthering their research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3a/d9/gkp970.PMC2808967.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4204719", "abstract": "The incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Asia has witnessed a rapid increase within a few decades. The genetic susceptibility and epidemiologic backgrounds in the Asian population have been found to be different from that of Western populations. There is an extensive crosstalk between gut microbiota and human hosts, with evidence of reciprocal interactions. It is well known that gut microbiota can affect the host immune system and in turn, host genetic backgrounds can affect gut microbiota reciprocally. Evidences have implicated gut microbes in the development of IBD, but no causative microorganisms have been identified. Recent advances in sequencing technology and computational analysis have now made identification of complex gut microbiomes accessible. Further research targeting gut microbiota could help in identifying biomarkers to predict clinical response, and therapeutic modalities that might affect their resilience.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4a/ec/ir-12-178.PMC4204719.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2817392", "abstract": "Three infants with ambiguous genitalia and suspected ovotestes were given recombinant FSH to induce ovarian follicular development. The development of follicles in the gonadal tissue suggested the presence of ovarian tissue in two of the three infants. This method may provide a means to better characterize gonadal anatomy in patients affected by disorders of sex development (DSD). Sonographic information poststimulation provided parents with earlier and more specific education and support concerning the possible need for confirmative gonadal biopsy treatment options.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d1/ea/PMC2817392.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3356075", "abstract": "The peptide hormones uroguanylin and guanylin have been traditionally thought to be mediators of fluid–ion homeostasis in the vertebrate intestine. They serve as ligands for receptor guanylyl cyclase C (GC-C), and both receptor and ligands are expressed predominantly in the intestine. Ligand binding to GC-C results in increased cyclic GMP production in the cell which governs downstream signaling. In the last decade, a significant amount of research has unraveled novel functions for this class of peptide hormones, in addition to their action as intestinal secretagogues. An additional receptor for uroguanylin, receptor guanylyl cyclase D, has also been identified. Thus, unconventional roles of these peptides in regulating renal filtration, olfaction, reproduction, and cell proliferation have begun to be elucidated in detail. These varied effects suggest that these peptide hormones act in an autocrine, paracrine as well as endocrine manner to regulate diverse cellular processes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/24/PMC3356075.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2713887", "abstract": "We report a case of ganglioneurocytoma manifesting as a complex partial seizure in a young adult male. MR images depicted a well-marginated cystic mass with a heterogeneous solid portion abutting the dura in the parietal lobe. The solid portion showed minimal heterogeneous enhancement, and pressure erosion of the overlying calvarium had occurred. Following gross total resection, the clinical outcome was satisfactory, with no further seizures, and during the five-year follow-up period, the tumor did not recur.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/89/90/kjr-3-214.PMC2713887.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5400449", "abstract": "Abstract A 21-year-old male involved in a motorcycle crash presented with abdominal hemorrhage and a widened mediastinum on chest radiograph. He required an initial exploratory laparotomy for mesenteric injuries. An aortic injury was confirmed on computed tomography imaging and he subsequently underwent attempted endovascular repair. During that procedure, the patient experienced massive thoracic hemorrhage with cardiac arrest and profound respiratory failure. Damage-control thoracic surgery and rescue extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were successfully utilized with a favorable outcome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ce/83/rjx022.PMC5400449.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2777015", "abstract": "The obligate intracellular bacterium Lawsonia intracellularis causes enteritis and poor growth in weaned pigs. Cultivation is difficult and diagnosis ante mortem is mainly based on techniques such as polymerase chain reaction. However, false negative results caused by the presence of PCR-inhibitory factors constitute a problem. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a new technique, flotation, to separate L. intracellularis from inhibitors in faeces prior to PCR. The technique was evaluated by comparison to two previously evaluated and commonly used methods, preparation by boiling lysate combined with nested PCR and preparation by a commercial kit combined with conventional PCR. Continuous density centrifugation of faecal samples containing L. intracellularis suggested the buoyant density of the microbe to be between 1.064 and 1.077 g/mL. Several flotation setups were tested to achieve optimal separation of the microbe from inhibitors and faecal particles. The finally selected setup floated whole L. intracellularis from the application site at the bottom to the upper part of the gradient while inhibitory components mainly remained in the bottom. PCR was performed directly on material recovered from the upper interphase. The method was evaluated on 116 clinical samples. As compared to sample preparation by boiling combined with nested PCR, fewer samples were inhibited but also fewer positives were identified. In comparison to preparation by a commercial kit combined with conventional PCR, presently used for routine diagnosis, similar results were obtained. However, the new method was comparably faster to perform. The new method, based on flotation of Lawsonia intracellularis combined with conventional PCR, was well suited for routine diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/32/2a/PMC2777015.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3319782", "abstract": "Neurofibromatosis type I (NF-1) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disorder occurring in 1 in 3,000 individuals. Vasculopathy is a rarely reported finding in patients with NF-1. Here, we report a case of recurrent aortic pseudoaneurysm after endovascular aneurysm repair in a 49-year-old male patient with NF-1. On the sixth postoperative day following a successful open surgical repair of an aortic pseudoaneurysm, he developed hemoperitoneum due to a delayed rupture of the mesenteric artery branch. This was treated with endovascular coil embolization. We report the clinical features and histologic findings of this rare vascular disorder with a review of the relevant literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ee/ce/jkss-82-261.PMC3319782.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4160723", "abstract": "Background: Despite huge efforts to increase the level of breast cancer awareness, breast self-examination (BSE) is still poorly practiced across Jordan. This baseline study aimed to assess the awareness of female Jordanian students about breast cancer and their practice of BSE. Materials and Methods: Using a cross-sectional research design, a self-administered survey was used, via a pre-validated pre-piloted questionnaire was distributed to 900 female students aged between 18 and 37 years recruited from the University of Jordan in Amman. The questionnaire was divided into four domains: Socio-demographic characteristics; the respondent's knowledge of breast cancer and BSE; their attitude towards risk factors for breast cancer; their experience of breast cancer screening and BSE. Statistical analysis was performed using Epi-Info version 6.4 statistical Software. Results: The overall response rate was 93.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/c4/JBCP-5-74.PMC4160723.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3099195", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tBackground. Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is associated with macrovascular disease and possibly  with microangiopathy in type 2 diabetes (T2DM). We tested the hypothesis that ADMA is related to diabetic retinopathy (DR) independently of macrovascular disease. Methods. This cross-sectional study included 127 T2DM patients selected to achieve equal distributions of patients with and without macrovascular disease in the groups with and without DR. Results. Patients with DR had increased ADMA, longer diabetes duration, and reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR). ADMA correlated with GFR (ρ = -0.35; P < .001), diabetes duration (ρ = 0.19; P = .048), and age (ρ = 0.19; P = .033). Logistic regression analysis revealed an association of ADMA with DR. After adjustment for macrovascular disease, this association remained significant (OR 1.48; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0e/be/PMC3099195.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3683482", "abstract": "Stathmin, a microtubule-destabilizing phosphoprotein, is highly expressed in ovarian cancer, but the pathophysiological significance of this protein in ovarian carcinoma cells remains poorly understood. This study reports the involvement of stathmin in the mTOR/HIF-1α/VEGF pathway in ovarian clear cell adenocarcinoma (CCA) during hypoxia. HIF-1α protein and VEGF mRNA levels were markedly elevated in RMG-1 cells, a CCA cell line, cultured under hypoxic conditions. Rapamycin, an inhibitor of mTOR complex 1, reduced the level of HIF-1α and blocked phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (S6K), a transcriptional regulator of mTOR, demonstrating that hypoxia activates mTOR/S6K/HIF-1α signaling in CCA. Furthermore, stathmin knockdown inhibited hypoxia-induced HIF-1α and VEGF expression and S6K phosphorylation. The silencing of stathmin expression also reduced Akt phosphorylation, a critical event in the mTOR/HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway. By contrast, stathmin overexpression upregulated hypoxia-induced HIF-1α and VEGF expression in OVCAR-3 cells, another CCA cell line. In addition, suppression of Akt activation by wortmannin, a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, decreased HIF-1α and VEGF expression. These results illustrate that regulation of HIF-1α through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is controlled by stathmin in CCA. Our findings point to a new mechanism of stathmin regulation during ovarian cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/38/PMC3683482.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3551402", "abstract": "Hemobilia represents gastrointestinal bleeding that develops as a result of communication between blood vessels and the biliary tract, which causes the blood to reach the duodenal papilla. It is characterized by biliary colic as the initial symptom, and the complications of cholangitis, obstructive jaundice and/or anemia. In general, definitive diagnosis is made by esophagogastroduodenoscopy which confirms bleeding from the duodenal papilla. Abdominal US and abdominal enhanced CT are performed to identify the source of the bleeding, as well as ERCP for biliary drainage to control the comorbid cholangitis. If active hemorrhage accompanied by worsening of the anemia is suspected, abdominal angiography is performed to selectively image the hepatic artery. Then, embolization of the culprit vessel is recommended. In our patients with difficult hemostasis, because of the direct compression hemostasis to the tumor site achieved with the fully covered metallic stent and secondary compression hemostasis due to blood clots, the bleeding could be controlled.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/90/cro-0005-0682.PMC3551402.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4359363", "abstract": "Background: Cardiovascular events account for the main cause of death in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and are largely influenced by genetic factors. Although multiple studies showed that tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) polymorphisms are risk factors in the progression of NAFLD, few papers on the association of the polymorphisms and the developing coronary artery disease (CAD) in NAFLD patients have been reported. Objectives: The present study was designed to evaluate the association of TNF-α polymorphisms at residues -238 and -308, with the risk of developing CAD in Chinese patients with NAFLD. Patients and Methods: The TNF-α polymorphisms at residues 238 and 308 were genotyped in B-type ultrasonography proven NAFLD patients with (n = 246), without (n = 247) CAD and healthy controls (n = 304), using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Serum lipid profiles were determined using biochemical methods. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS statistical software, version 20.0 for Mac. Results: We found a significant association between TNF-α-238 guanine to alanine (GA) polymorphism and carriers of variant allele A between NAFLD patients with and without CAD (P < 0.05). Carriers of the A allele of TNF-α-238 had higher serum triglycerides (TG) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels in NAFLD patients with CAD (P = 0.025 and 0.001, respectively) and a higher TG level in NAFLD patients without CAD (P = 0.017), than their non-carrier counterparts. Conclusions: In the Chinese Han population that we studied, NAFLD patients who carry the TNF-α-238 GA polymorphism have an increased risk of developing CAD. Mechanisms underlying this potentially important association require further investigation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/da/hepatmon-15-03-26818.PMC4359363.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5156888", "abstract": "Hepatic encephalopathy due to intrahepatic portosystemic venous shunts (IPSVS) in a non-cirrhotic condition is rare. Here we report a rare case of a patient with congenital multiple IPSVS successfully treated by percutaneous transhepatic obliteration. The patient was a 67-year-old woman who presented to our hospital with progressive episodes of consciousness disorder and vomiting. Laboratory tests revealed hyperammonemia (192.0 μg/dL), and computed tomography revealed multiple IPSVS in both lobes. There was no evidence of underlying liver disease or hepatic trauma. Transcatheter embolization for IPSVS was performed because conservative therapy was not sufficiently effective. After endovascular shunt closure, hepatic encephalopathy improved. The serum ammonia level normalized during the 5-year follow-up period. Thus, transcatheter embolization may be an effective therapy for patients with symptomatic and refractory IPSVS. Careful follow-up is necessary for portal hypertension-related complications after transcatheter embolization for IPSVS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/21/crg-0010-0701.PMC5156888.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3945270", "abstract": "Prison populations are considered to be at high risk for tuberculosis infections, and many of the cases encountered have initiated while the individuals were in prison. There are also studies that have estimated the occupational risk of exposure and infection for hospital-based and correctional healthcare workers. To our knowledge, data on the incidence and risk factors associated with tuberculosis are very scanty in Romania, and therefore the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for this infections among a sample of prison inmates stationed at Colibasi Hospital Prison.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f8/50/PMC3945270.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC324567", "abstract": "Background Power Doppler (PD) has improved diagnostic capabilities of vascular sonography, mainly because it is independent from the angle of insonation. We evaluated this technique in a prospective comparison with conventional imaging, consisting in Duplex and Color Doppler, for the evaluation of Renal Artery (RA) stenosis. Methods Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of PD and conventional imaging were assessed in a blinded fashion on eighteen patients, 9 with angiographic evidence of unilateral RA stenosis (hypertensive patients) and 9 with angiographically normal arteries (control group). PD images were interpreted with an angiography-like criteria. Results In the control group both techniques allowed correct visualization of 16 out of the 18 normal arteries (93", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c9/a8/PMC324567.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4015206", "abstract": "The magnetic capsule endoscope has been modified to be fixed inside the stomach and to monitor the gastric motility. This pilot trial was designed to investigate the feasibility of the magnetic capsule endoscope for monitoring gastric motility. The magnetic capsule endoscope was swallowed by the healthy volunteer and maneuvered by the external magnet on his abdomen surface inside the stomach. The magnetic capsule endoscope transmitted image of gastric peristalsis. This simple trial suggested that the real-time ambulatory monitoring of gastric motility should be feasible by using the magnetic capsule endoscope.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c7/fd/jnm-20-261.PMC4015206.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3979954", "abstract": "ABSTRACT The pathogenicity of Newcastle disease (ND) virus, isolated from ND outbreak in vaccinated chickens, was evaluated through experiments. The pathogenicity indexes (mean death time (MDT); 58 hr, intracerebral pathogenicity index (ICPI); 1.7 and intravenous pathogenicity index (IVPI); 2.51) indicated that the ND virus was velogenic. The ND virus caused lymphocytic necrosis in the spleen with fibrinous exudation and proliferation of macrophages, sinusoidal fibrin exudation in the liver, proliferation of macrophages in the lung, lymphocytic necrosis and depletion in the bursa of Fabricius, cecal tonsils and thymus, necrosis of bone marrow, tracheitis, conjunctivitis and necrosis of feather epithelial cells in specific-pathogen-free chickens. Immunohistochemically, ND virus antigens were seen in the lesions mentioned above. The ND virus could not induce the encephalitis and pancreatitis that were observed in the natural case of ND in vaccinated chickens. There was no clinical disease in vaccinated chickens after the challenge of the ND virus. In diluted ND vaccine experiments, chickens vaccinated with a high dilution of vaccine and then challenged with the ND virus showed clinical sign and mortality with pancreatic focal necrosis. Vaccine diluted with fresh tap water had no effect on protection against the challenge of the ND virus. This study suggests that improper vaccination may be involved in outbreaks of ND in vaccinated chickens.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/3b/jvms-76-031.PMC3979954.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5126591", "abstract": "Splenic tumors are not frequent. Blood vessel neoplasms are a rare category of tumors and have an extremely low incidence in the spleen. This case report aims to describe a 57-year-old woman in whom a routine imaging examination had shown splenic cysts. During her follow-up, the cysts became larger and increased in number. A diagnostic splenectomy was performed and its analysis showed a rare splenic angiosarcoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/3c/cro-0009-0733.PMC5126591.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2860809", "abstract": "The lack of proven screening tools for early detection and the high mortality of ovarian serous carcinoma (OSC), particularly high grade, have focused attention on identifying putative precursor lesions with distinct morphological and molecular characteristics. The finding of occult invasive and intraepithelial fallopian tube carcinomas in prophylactically removed specimens from asymptomatic high-risk BRCA 1/2-mutation carriers supports the notion of an origin for OSC in the fallopian tube. The intraepithelial carcinomas have been referred to as serous intraepithelial carcinomas (STICs) but our own findings (unpublished data) and recent reports have drawn attention to a spectrum of changes that fall short of STICs that we have designated serous tubal intraepithelial lesions (STILs). ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/aa/PMC2860809.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4691274", "abstract": "Trichobezoars are impactions of swallowed hairs in the stomach and occasionally in the intestine. They occur in emotionally disturbed, depressed, or mentally retarded patients who have trichotillomania and trichophagia. Trichobezoars are usually diagnosed on CT scan or upper GI endoscopy. They can give rise to complications like gastroduodenal ulceration, haemorrhage, perforation, peritonitis, or obstruction, with a high rate of mortality. The treatment is endoscopic, laparoscopic, or surgical removal and usually followed by psychiatric opinion. Herein, we report a case of gastric trichobezoar presenting as gastric perforation in a patient of trichotillomania and trichophagia that was accidentally found on laparotomy. As the patient was in shock on admission, relevant history of trichophagia could not be elicited. Henceforth, she was operated for perforation peritonitis. Trichobezoar was discovered intraoperatively and removed. The perforation was repaired with Graham’s omental patch. Postoperatively, history of trichophagia was corroborated with scarring alopecia of scalp. Trichobezoars is usually seen in adolescent girls, often with an underlying psychiatric or social problem. Laparotomy is the gold standard treatment. Surgical treatment should be followed by behavioral and psychiatric treatment. The patient should be vigilantly monitored for this impulsive disorder, as recurrences are common.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/7e/IJMS-41-67.PMC4691274.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3317134", "abstract": "Blood pressure self-measurement (BPSM) requires patients to follow a range of recommendations in order to be considered reliable for diagnostic use. We investigated currently used BPSM interventions at four medical clinics combined with an online questionnaire targeting BPSM users. We found that the participating healthcare personnel perceived BPSM as a relevant and useful intervention method providing that the recommendations are followed. A total of six challenges were identified: (1) existing devices do not guarantee that the recommendations are followed, (2) healthcare providers cannot verify whether self-monitoring patients follow the recommendations, (3) patients are not aware of all recommendations and the need to follow them, (4) risk of patient induced reporting bias, (5) risk of healthcare provider induced data-transfer bias, and (6) risk of data being registered as belonging to the wrong patient. We conclude that existing BPSM interventions could be significantly affected by user-induced bias resulting in an indeterminable quality of the measurement data. Therefore, we suggest applying context-aware technological support tools to better detect and quantify user errors. This may allow us to develop solutions that could overcome or compensate for such errors in the future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/eb/PMC3317134.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5091031", "abstract": "Background A strong association between obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been reported. Objectives This study was conducted to evaluate if new obesity indices, including a body shape index (ABSI) and body roundness index (BRI), have stronger associations with NAFLD than waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). Methods In this cross-sectional study, we utilized the data of 4,872 participants aged 18 - 74 years from a cohort study conducted among 6,143 subjects in northern Iran. Logistic regression analysis was performed on NAFLD as the outcome and obesity measures (based on Z-score values) as potential predictors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were conducted, in which NAFLD was considered as a reference variable and obesity measures as classification variables. The discriminatory ability of the obesity measures was reported based on area-under-the-curves, and the related cut-off points of BRI and WHtR were determined using the Youden index (YI). Results Based on our results, BRI (OR = 5.484 for men and OR = 3.482 for women) and WHtR (OR = 5.309 for men and OR = 3.854 for women) showed a higher association with NAFLD than ABSI (OR = 1.363 for men and OR = 1.003 for women) and WHR (OR = 3.123 for men and OR = 1.628 for women). The optimal cut-off points for BRI were 4.00 (sensitivity = 82.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/53/hepatmon-16-09-39575.PMC5091031.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5266394", "abstract": "A 22-year-old woman with a 1-month history of shortness of breath that was treated as a case of tuberculosis and pulmonary embolism was referred to the authors’ hospital. Because of the hemodynamic instability in this patient, venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was administered in the intensive care unit. She underwent a pulmonary embolectomy for the treatment of progressive circulatory collapse secondary to a pulmonary embolism. The histopathologic result was consistent with a metastatic choriocarcinoma. Despite the surgical management, persistent refractory cardiogenic shock occurred. Subsequently, the patient was treated with chemotherapy in the presence of ECMO and responded well to chemotherapy. She was discharged after 3 months. This case suggests that metastatic choriocarcinoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis in women of childbearing age presenting with a pulmonary embolism, and ECMO may be beneficial in patients with pulmonary embolism for bridging to surgical embolectomy and chemotherapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/88/19/crt-2016-125.PMC5266394.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4490079", "abstract": "The discovery that two common APOL1 alleles were strongly associated with non-diabetic kidney diseases in African descent populations led to hope for improved diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, we still do not have a clear understanding of the biological function played by APOL1 in podocytes or other kidney cells, nor how the renal risk alleles initiate the development of nephropathies. Important clues for APOL1 function may be gleaned from the natural defense mechanism of APOL1 against trypanosome infections and from similar proteins (e.g. diphtheria toxin, mammalian Bcl-2 family members). This review provides an update on the biological functions for circulating (trypanosome resistance) and intracellular (emerging role for autophagy) APOL1. Further, we introduce a multimer model for APOL1 in kidney cells that reconciles the gain-of-function variants with the recessive inheritance pattern of APOL1 renal risk alleles.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ba/ae/PMC4490079.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4572423", "abstract": " Objective. The follow-up of GH levels in short-stature children with pituitary hyperplasia secondary to primary hypothyroidism (PPH) is reported in a few cases. We aimed to observe changes in GH secretion in short-stature children with PPH. Methods. A total of 11 short-stature children with PPH accompanied by low GH levels were included. They received levothyroxine therapy after diagnosis. Their thyroid hormones, IGF-1, PRL, and pituitary height were measured at baseline and 3 months after therapy. GH stimulation tests were performed at baseline and after regression of thyroid hormones and pituitary. Results. At baseline, they had decreased GH peak and FT3 and FT4 levels and elevated TSH levels. Decreased IGF-1 levels were found in seven children. Elevated PRL levels and positive thyroid antibodies were found in 10 children. The mean pituitary height was 14.3 ± 3.8 mm. After 3 months, FT3, FT4, and IGF-1 levels were significantly increased (all p < 0.01), and values of TSH, PRL, and pituitary height were significantly decreased (all p < 0.001). After 6 months, pituitary hyperplasia completely regressed. GH levels returned to normal in nine children and were still low in two children. Conclusion. GH secretion can be resolved in most short-stature children with PPH.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e8/40/PMC4572423.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1974812", "abstract": "Transfusional iron overload in patients with chronic anemias can result in multiple organ failure. Experience in the management of iron overload in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes is limited, as many do not receive chelation therapy due to short-life expectancy and the difficulties associated with the administration of the current reference standard chelator, deferoxamine. There have, however, been some reports of reduced transfusion requirement associated with chelation therapy in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes and myelofibrosis. Here, we discuss a patient with primary myelofibrosis and related transfusion-dependent anemia who received chelation therapy with the once-daily oral iron chelator, deferasirox. In addition to the reduced iron levels, the patient demonstrated an unexpected reduction in blood transfusion requirement, ultimately resulting in long-lasting transfusion-free survival.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/c8/PMC1974812.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3673862", "abstract": "Purpose This study investigated the efficacy and safety of monthly risedronate, with and without cholecalciferol, on 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels and bone markers in Korean patients with osteoporosis. Methods A randomized, double-blinded, prospective, 16-week clinical trial was conducted in ten hospitals. A total of 150 subjects with osteoporosis were randomized to one of the two treatment groups: RSDM+ (monthly risedronate 150 mg and cholecalciferol 30,000 IU combined in a single pill, n = 74) or RSDM (monthly risedronate 150 mg alone, n = 76). We measured serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), parathyroid hormone (PTH), and bone markers, as well as performing muscle-function tests at baseline and after 16 weeks of treatment. Results After 16 weeks, serum 25(OH)D levels significantly increased from 17.8 to 26.8 ng/mL in the RSDM+ group, but did not change in the RSDM group. The RSDM+ group exhibited significantly decreased serum PTH from 46 to 36.7 pg/mL, while the RSDM group showed a tendency for PTH to increase from 38 to 40.6 pg/mL. In both groups, serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and C-terminal telopeptide rapidly declined, with significance at 16 weeks; there were no significant differences between the groups. Conclusion A once-monthly pill of risedronate and cholecalciferol provided equivalent antiresorptive efficacy to risedronate alone in terms of bone turnover and improved 25(OH)D levels over the 16-week treatment period without significant adverse events in Korean patients with osteoporosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b4/b0/PMC3673862.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4578501", "abstract": "An 87-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes noticed a red itchy rash at the insulin injection sites 3 weeks after initiation of premixed insulin therapy. Laboratory data at that time showed marked eosinophilia and progression of renal dysfunction. Insulin treatment was discontinued, and antidiabetic oral drugs were used, as well as intravenous injection of dexamethasone. Her skin lesions disappeared, and both eosinophilia and renal dysfunction gradually improved. The results of skin prick tests and measurement of specific immunoglobulin E antibodies suggested that the insulin allergy was caused by protamine. Although cases of insulin allergy associated with renal dysfunction are rare, we must be aware, especially for elderly patients with poor renal function in the first application of insulin.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/90/jdi0006-0591.PMC4578501.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3019747", "abstract": "Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess a suggested association between periodontitis and renal insufficiency by assaying kidney disease markers. Methods: Variables used to diagnose periodontitis were: (i) probing pocket depth (PPD), (ii) attachment loss (AL), (iii) bleeding on probing (BOP), (iv) plaque index (PI) and (v) extent and severity index. Blood and urine were collected from 60 apparently healthy non-smokers (men and women), consisting of a test group of 30 subjects with periodontitis (age 46±6 yrs) and a control group of 30 healthy subjects (age 43±5 yrs). Kidney function markers (urea, creatinine, uric acid and albumin contents) were measured in the serum and urine. Also, the glomerular filtration rate was estimated from creatinine clearance, from the abbreviated Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula and from the albumin : creatinine ratio in a 24–h sample of urine. Results: It was found that the control group had a greater mean number of teeth than the test group and that the two groups also differed in PPD, AL, BOP and PI, all these variables being higher in the test group (P=0.006). For the extent and severity index of both PPD and AL, the test group had much higher medians of both extent and severity than the control group (P=0.001). With regard to kidney function, none of the markers revealed a significant difference between the control and test groups and all measured values fell within the reference intervals. Conclusions: It is proposed that severe periodontitis is not associated with any alteration in kidney function.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f7/38/PMC3019747.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3270285", "abstract": "We report on two women who underwent myocardial revascularization associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) with different pathogenic patterns. The first woman presented with acute myocardial infarction, and preoperative angiograms demonstrated rapidly progressing coronary lesions, presumptive unstable plaque, and dissection. Operative findings, however, showed fresh thrombi in the coronary arteries, and she was diagnosed postoperatively as having APS. Her one-year angiogram demonstrated improved coronary lesions and a competitive flow pattern in the grafts. The second woman presented with unstable angina and had been treated for systemic lupus erythematosus and secondary APS for more than 14 years. She underwent myocardial revascularization due to accelerated coronary atherosclerosis. Her one-year angiogram demonstrated patent grafts.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/1f/kjtcs-44-423.PMC3270285.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3820412", "abstract": " [Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of smoking on teenagers' internal oblique (IO) and transverses abdominis (TrA) expiratory muscles and their pulmonary function. [Subjects] A total of 30 healthy teenagers (15 smokers; 15 nonsmokers) voluntarily participated in the study. [Methods] The subjects were instructed to maintain an upright standing posture with their scapulars against the wall. Measurements were then taken to determine the thickness of their right IO and their right TrA while they were at rest and in a state of forced expiration using a 7.5 MHz linear probe of an ultrasonic imaging system. The measured thickness was converted into the percentage of change in muscle thickness (PCMT) and the relative contribution ratio (RCR) using a calculation formula, and then the data were analyzed. [Results] No significant differences were found between the two groups in the thickness, PCMT, and RCR of both the IO and TrA muscles, while there were significant differences in the forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV1) and the peak expiratory flow (PEF). [Conclusion] This study examined teenage smokers whose duration of smoking was relatively short. The two groups did not show significant differences in the thickness of both the IO and TrA muscles. However, based on the forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV1) and PEF measurements, the smokers showed greater decreases in pulmonary function than the nonsmokers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c8/53/jpts-25-789.PMC3820412.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3796696", "abstract": "Objective To investigate the clinical outcomes of an invasive strategy for elderly (aged ≥ 75 years) patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) complicated by cardiogenic shock (CS). Methods Data on 366 of 409 elderly CS patients from a total of 6,132 acute STEMI cases enrolled in the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry between January 2008 and June 2011, were collected and analyzed. In-hospital deaths and the 1-month and 1-year survival rates free from major adverse cardiac events (MACE; defined as all cause death, myocardial infarction, and target vessel revascularization) were reported for the patients who had undergone invasive (n = 310) and conservative (n = 56) treatment strategies. Results The baseline clinical characteristics were not significantly different between the two groups. There were fewer in-hospital deaths in the invasive treatment strategy group (23.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5f/91/jgc-10-03-235.PMC3796696.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3486993", "abstract": "Persistent osteomyelitis is a severe and challenging problem in bone surgery. We describe a surgical intervention in a young adult which combines a bone debridement process, a plastic muscle flap sealing and the administration of a novel bone substitution material with anti-infective properties. After 1 year, the patient showed no signs or symptoms of a reoccurrence of infection with full load capacity of the treated leg.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8d/dd/PMC3486993.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3446036", "abstract": "Objective Dilated cardiomyopathy is the end result of chronic iron overload in patients with beta thalassemia major. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Carvedilol in patients with beta thalassemia major and dilated cardiomyopathy. Methods During a six-month period, fourteen patients with beta-thalassemia major and heart failure without diabetes mellitus referred to pediatric cardiology clinic enrolled in this double blind, randomly assigned study. All patients were on anti failure therapy with Digoxin, Captopril and Furosemide. Carvedilol was started at a dosage of 3.12 mg bid and for patients who had a systolic blood pressure >100 mmHg, heart rate >60/min and no signs of low cardiac output the dosage was increased every two weeks to a maximum of 25 mg bid. Clinical signs and symptoms, systolic and diastolic echocardiographic indexes and Tissue Doppler Imaging (TDI) data were collected from each patient. Findings Eight patients received Carvedilol (Group 1) and six received placebo (Group 2). The mean age of patients in Group1 and 2 were 16±0.7 years and 17±3 years respectively. Only one patent in Group 1 tolerated increasing Carvedilol dosage to more than 6.25 mg bid. Changes in New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification, Ejection fraction, End diastolic dimension changes, TDI systolic(S), early (Ea) and late (Aa) diastolic waves were not statistically significant in these two Groups (P>0.05). Pulse Doppler E/A wave ratio of mitral valve in Group1 and Group 2 changed from 1.1±0.37 m/s to 1.8±0.40 m/s and from 1.34±0.30 m/s to 2.6±0.23m/s respectively (P=0.04). Conclusion Patients with thalassemia and dilated cardiomyopathy have poor tolerance to increasing Carvedilol dosage and develop decreased systolic blood pressure during advancement of the drug dosage. Carvedilol can be effective in prevention of progression of diastolic dysfunction in these patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a6/69/IJPD-20-277.PMC3446036.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3374946", "abstract": "Abnormal regulation of tau phosphorylation and/or alternative splicing is associated with the development of a large (>20) group of neurodegenerative disorders collectively known as tauopathies, the most common being Alzheimer's disease. Despite intensive research, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that participate in the transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation of endogenous tau, especially in neurons. Recently, we showed that mice lacking Dicer in the forebrain displayed progressive neurodegeneration accompanied by disease-like changes in tau phosphorylation and splicing. Dicer is a key enzyme in the biogenesis of microRNAs (miRNAs), small noncoding RNAs that function as part of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) to repress gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. We identified miR-16 and miR-132 as putative endogenous modulators of neuronal tau phosphorylation and tau exon 10 splicing, respectively. Interestingly, these miRNAs have been implicated in cell survival and function, whereas changes in miR-16/132 levels correlate with tau pathology in human neurodegenerative disorders. Thus, understanding how miRNA networks influence tau metabolism and possibly other biological systems might provide important clues into the molecular causes of tauopathies, particularly the more common but less understood sporadic forms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/83/PMC3374946.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5412539", "abstract": "Background Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic disease with a negative impact on the quality of life. The aim of this study was to investigate the reflux symptoms and the health-related quality of life in a population with GERD. Methods Data from patients with GERD, according to the Montreal definition, were collected between January and December 2009. The enrolled patients were classified by different reflux symptoms according to the modified Chinese GERDQ. The general demographic data, the modified GERD impact scores and the SF-36 questionnaire scores of these groups of patients were analyzed. Results A total of 173 patients were enrolled, and the general data, endoscopic findings and lifestyle habits of the participants with different severity of heartburn or regurgitation were all similar. The patients with moderate severity of reflux symptoms had significant lower SF-36 scores than those with mild severity. The cases with advanced heartburn severity owned the lowest scores among all cases. The impact on the daily activity of each affected individual had a positive association with the stronger severity of reflux symptom. Conclusion The life quality of a population with GERD achieved the meaningful declination in participants with the moderate severity of heartburn or regurgitation. The severity of the reflux symptoms had a greater impact on the normal daily activity of the patients with GERD. The cases with advanced severity of heartburn had the worst well-being.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/80/gr-10-078.PMC5412539.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5415969", "abstract": "The most common variant causing Pompe disease is c.-32-13T>G (IVS1) in the acid α-glucosidase (GAA) gene, which weakens the splice acceptor of GAA exon 2 and induces partial and complete exon 2 skipping. It also allows a low level of leaky wild-type splicing, leading to a childhood/adult phenotype. We hypothesized that cis-acting splicing motifs may exist that could be blocked using antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) to promote exon inclusion. To test this, a screen was performed in patient-derived primary fibroblasts using a tiling array of U7 small nuclear RNA (snRNA)-based AONs. This resulted in the identification of a splicing regulatory element in GAA intron 1. We designed phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer-based AONs to this element, and these promoted exon 2 inclusion and enhanced GAA enzyme activity to levels above the disease threshold. These results indicate that the common IVS1 GAA splicing variant in Pompe disease is subject to negative regulation, and inhibition of a splicing regulatory element using AONs is able to restore canonical GAA splicing and endogenous GAA enzyme activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/01/57/main.PMC5415969.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5198259", "abstract": "Anthocyanin in strawberries has a positive effect on fruit coloration. In this study, the role of exogenous hematin on anthocyanin biosynthesis was investigated. Our result showed that the white stage of strawberries treated with exogenous hematin had higher anthocyanin content, compared to the control group. Among all treatments, 5 μM of hematin was the optimal condition to promote color development. In order to explore the molecular mechanism of fruit coloring regulated by hematin, transcriptomes in the hematin- and non-hematin-treated fruit were analyzed. A large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in regulating anthocyanin synthesis, including the DEGs involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis, hormone signaling transduction, phytochrome signaling, starch and sucrose degradation, and transcriptional pathways. These regulatory networks may play an important role in regulating the color process of strawberries treated with hematin. In summary, exogenous hematin could promote fruit coloring by increasing anthocyanin content in the white stage of strawberries. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis suggests that hematin-promoted fruit coloring occurs through multiple related metabolic pathways, which provides valuable information for regulating fruit color via anthocyanin biosynthesis in strawberries.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a6/56/PMC5198259.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2887124", "abstract": "The nature of mankind is a concern for those in need. Disasters, both natural and manmade, have been with us since the beginning of recorded history but media coverage of them is a relatively new phenomenon. When these factors come together, there is great potential to both identify and serve the sick and injured. However, the mass media by its nature tends to enhance the humanistic aspect of rescue while minimizing the practical problems involved. We describe a recent scenario in Haiti that puts some of these complications into a practical perspective.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/23/47/PMC2887124.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1145139", "abstract": "The 1918 Influenza pandemic was one of the most virulent strains of influenza in history. This strain quickly dispatched previously held theories on influenza. World War One introduced new environmental stresses and speed of dissemination logistics never experienced by humans. In light of new phylogenic evidence the cause of this influenza outbreak is now being considered to have linkage to the avian influenza. Animals act as reservoirs for this influenza virus and research indicates the influenza virus often originates in the intestines of aquatic wildfowl. The virus is shed into the environment, which in turns infects domestic poultry, which in turn infects mammalian hosts. These animals, usually pigs, act as a transformer or converters; creating a strain that can more readily infect humans. Therefore swine can be infected with both avian and human influenza A viruses and serve as a source for infection for a number of species as the incidents of direct infection from birds to humans have been rare. Increased human habitation near poultry and swine raising facilities pose greater influenza outbreak risk. It was this combination of environmental factors that may have contributed to the greatest pandemic of recent times, and, moreover, similar conditions exist throughout Southeast Asia today.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b5/ea/PMC1145139.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1705510", "abstract": "Respondent driven sampling (RDS) has been used in several counties to sample injecting drug users, sex workers (SWs) and men who have sex with men and as a means of collecting behavioural and biological health data. We report on the use of RDS in three separate studies conducted among SWs between 2004 and 2005 in the Russian Federation, Serbia, and Montenegro. Findings suggest that there are limitations associated with the use of RDS in SW populations in these regions. Findings highlight three main factors that merit further investigation as a means of assessing the feasibility and appropriateness of RDS in this high risk population: the network characteristics of SWs; the appropriate level of participant incentives; and lack of service contact. The highly controlled and hidden nature of SW organizations and weak SW social networks in the region can combine to undermine assumptions underpinning the feasibility of RDS approaches and potentially severely limit recruitment. We discuss the implications of these findings for recruitment and the use of monetary and non-monetary incentives in future RDS studies of SW populations in Eastern Europe.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/12/PMC1705510.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5140860", "abstract": "The patient was a 57-year-old man who was diagnosed with multiple lung metastases of sigmoid colon cancer. The patient developed progressive disease after 8 courses of bevacizumab + capecitabine and oxaliplatin therapy, therefore, bevacizumab + irinotecan, leucovorin, and 5-fluorouracil therapy was started. During the fifth course, he experienced pain on the left side of his chest. On computed tomography, bleeding from the pulmonary metastatic lesions was suspected. Two days later, a pneumothorax was detected. Although several cases of pneumothorax induced by bevacizumab have been reported, this case is the first documentation that bevacizumab caused a rupture of the lung metastatic lesion, leading to a pneumothorax. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/d9/1349-7235-55-3125.PMC5140860.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3930927", "abstract": "The International Pachyonychia Congenita Consortium (IPCC) was founded in 2004 in Park City, Utah, USA. Its goal is to find a cure for pachyonychia congenita, a rare keratinizing disorder. From February 14th–17th, 2013, the group convened in Park City for their tenth annual meeting. The 2013 meeting focused on how to best move forward with clinical trials and on learning from work in other scientific areas, with an emphasis on understanding mechanisms of pain and hyperkeratosis. Considerable time was spent on discussing the best way to move forward with development of new treatments and how to obtain or develop tools that can measure treatment outcomes in PC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/aa/fd/PMC3930927.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3705871", "abstract": " Introduction. Cycling can be an enjoyable way to meet physical activity recommendations and is suitable for older people; however cycling participation by older Australians is low. This qualitative study explored motivators, enablers, and barriers to cycling among older people through an age-targeted cycling promotion program.  Methods. Seventeen adults who aged 50–75 years participated in a 12-week cycling promotion program which included a cycling skills course, mentor, and resource pack. Semistructured interviews at the beginning and end of the program explored motivators, enablers, and barriers to cycling.  Results. Fitness and recreation were the primary motivators for cycling. The biggest barrier was fear of cars and traffic, and the cycling skills course was the most important enabler for improving participants' confidence. Reported outcomes from cycling included improved quality of life (better mental health, social benefit, and empowerment) and improved physical health.  Conclusions. A simple cycling program increased cycling participation among older people. This work confirms the importance of improving confidence in this age group through a skills course, mentors, and maps and highlights additional strategies for promoting cycling, such as ongoing improvement to infrastructure and advertising.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/4c/PMC3705871.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5214660", "abstract": "Caffeine has become a popular ergogenic aid amongst athletes and usage to improve athletic performance has been well documented. The effect of caffeine on anabolic and catabolic hormones in a sleep-deprived s tate has had little investigation to date. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the potential of caffeine to offset the effects, if any, of short-term sleep deprivation and exercise on an athlete’s testosterone and cortisol concentrations via salivary technique. Eleven competitive male athletes volunteered to be part of this prospective double-blinded study. Three test days were scheduled for each athlete; one non-sleep deprived, one sleep-deprived with caffeine supplementation (6 mg.kg−1) and one sleep-deprived with placebo ingestion. Sleep deprivation was defined as 24-h without sleep. Each test day was composed of 2 aerobic components: a modified Hoff test and a Yo-Yo test. Testosterone and cortisol concentrations were measured via salivary analysis at 4 different time-points; T1 to T4, representing baseline, and pre- and post-aerobic components, respectively. Overall no significant differences were detected comparing the different sleep states for testosterone or cortisol concentrations. A trend existed whereby the sleep-deprived with caffeine ingestion state mirrored the non-sleep deprived state for cortisol concentration. Therefore, caffeine supplementation may have potential benefits for athletes during short-term aerobic exercise when sleep-deprived. An increase in mean testosterone concentration post-aerobic exercise was only observed in the sleep-deprived with caffeine ingestion state.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/50/9a/PMC5214660.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2872019", "abstract": "Enormous progress has been made in assessing the neonatal brain, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this review, we will describe the use of MRI and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy in detecting different patterns of brain injury in (full-term) human neonates following hypoxic–ischaemic brain injury and indicate the relevance of these findings in predicting neurodevelopmental outcome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/60/234_2010_Article_674.PMC2872019.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4651361", "abstract": "Suvorexant, approved in late 2014 in the United States and Japan for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty achieving and/or maintaining sleep, is a dual orexin receptor antagonist and the first drug in its class to reach the market. Its development followed from the 1998 discovery of orexins (also called hypocretins), excitatory neuropeptides originating from neurons in the hypothalamus involved in regulation of sleep and wake, feeding behavior and energy regulation, motor activity, and reward-seeking behavior. Suvorexant objectively improves sleep, shortening the time to achieve persistent sleep and reducing wake after sleep onset, although at approved doses (≤20 mg) the benefit was subjectively assessed as modest. Its half-life of 12 hours is relatively long for a modern hypnotic; however, at approved doses (≤20 mg) next-day sedation and driving impairment were much less apparent than at higher doses. Suvorexant is metabolized by the hepatic CYP3A system and should be avoided in combination with strong CYP3A inhibitors. Drug levels are higher in women and obese people; hence, dosing should be conservative in obese women. Administration with food delays drug absorption and is not advised. No dose adjustment is needed for advanced age, renal impairment, or mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment. Suvorexant in contraindicated in narcolepsy and has not been studied in children. In alignment with the changes begun in 2013 in the labeling of other hypnotics, the United States Food and Drug Administration advises that the lowest dose effective to treat symptoms be used and that patients be advised of the possibility of next-day impairment in function, including driving. Infrequent but notable side effects included abnormal dreams, sleep paralysis, and suicidal ideation that were dose-related and reported to be mild. Given its mechanism of action, cataplexy and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder could potentially occur in some patients taking this medication.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/46/dddt-9-6035.PMC4651361.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5449116", "abstract": "Neurofibroma, a benign peripheral nerve sheath tumor, usually appears together with café-au-lait spots, iris nodules, and other tumors within the scope of neurofibromatosis von Recklinghausen type 1 tumors. A solitary neurofibroma of the eyelid is relatively rare. In this case report, we present a 39-year-old woman who had a lesion on the eyelid crease, previously treated as a chalazion. Due to persistent wound crusting, the lesion was excised above the tarsus. Pathological examination revealed a solitary neurofibroma. The patient did not have other clinical symptoms of neurofibromatosis, and there was no recurrence of the nodule during the 1-year follow-up.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fb/aa/imcrj-10-177.PMC5449116.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3877459", "abstract": "Background: Medication therapy is one of the most complex and high-risk clinical processes that nurses deal with. Medication error is the most common type of error that brings about damage and death to patients, especially pediatric ones. However, these errors are preventable. Identifying and preventing undesirable events leading to medication errors are the main risk management activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a risk management program on the pediatric nurses’ medication error rate. Materials and Methods: This study is a quasi-experimental one with a comparison group. In this study, 200 nurses were recruited from two main pediatric hospitals in Tehran. In the experimental hospital, we applied the risk management program for a period of 6 months. Nurses of the control hospital did the hospital routine schedule. A pre- and post-test was performed to measure the frequency of the medication error events. SPSS software, t-test, and regression analysis were used for data analysis. Results: After the intervention, the medication error rate of nurses at the experimental hospital was significantly lower (P < 0.001) and the error-reporting rate was higher (P < 0.007) compared to before the intervention and also in comparison to the nurses of the control hospital. Conclusions: Based on the results of this study and taking into account the high-risk nature of the medical environment, applying the quality-control programs such as risk management can effectively prevent the occurrence of the hospital undesirable events. Nursing mangers can reduce the medication error rate by applying risk management programs. However, this program cannot succeed without nurses’ cooperation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/9b/IJNMR-18-371.PMC3877459.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2796921", "abstract": "Neuroscience simulators allow scientists to express models in terms of biological concepts, without having to concern themselves with low-level computational details of their implementation. The expressiveness, power and ease-of-use of the simulator interface is critical in efficiently and accurately translating ideas into a working simulation. We review long-term trends in the development of programmable simulator interfaces, and examine the benefits of moving from proprietary, domain-specific languages to modern dynamic general-purpose languages, in particular Python, which provide neuroscientists with an interactive and expressive simulation development environment and easy access to state-of-the-art general-purpose tools for scientific computing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/04/PMC2796921.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3833071", "abstract": "Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that inflammation plays fundamental roles in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. Interleukin-16 (IL-16) is identified as a proinflammatory cytokine that is a key element in the ischemic cascade after cerebral ischemia. We aimed to examine the relationship between the IL-16 polymorphisms and the risk of ischemic stroke in a Chinese population. A total of 198 patients with ischemic stroke and 236 controls were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and DNA sequencing method. We found that the rs11556218TG genotype and G allele of IL-16 were associated with significantly increased risks of ischemic stroke (TG versus TT, adjusted OR = 1.88; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/ed/PMC3833071.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3031844", "abstract": "Introduction The PRISMA France pilot project is ongoing since 2006. This project aims to implement an integrated services delivery (ISD) for elderly people, based on the PRISMA methodology. The experimentation is coupled with an implementation study to identify factors that facilitate and hinder the implementation. The fragmentation of public authorities represents one of the first barriers identified. In 2009, a large-scale institutional reform has been initiated. It consists of merging various structures having strategic authorities on medical and social care within a single entity: the Health Regional Agencies (HRA). One could anticipate that this reform should facilitate the implementation of ISD. Aims To analyze the influence of institutional reforms on a pilot program aiming to implement an ISD. In the framework of our qualitative study we analyze the way the actors conceive the HRA. Conclusions The potential to facilitate ISD of the HRA has been identified. It is hope that they should reduce the institutional fragmentation. Nonetheless, the link between these agencies and the implementation of ISD in the pilot project was rarely made. The extent of institutional change is bought into question by the past of the French system of social welfare.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/98/PMC3031844.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4424724", "abstract": "Purpose: To report a case of complex Descemet's membrane detachment (DMD) and tears during phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Case Report: A 64-year-old woman underwent phacoemulsification surgery in her right eye and developed tears and partial loss of Descemet's membrane (DM) while the aspiration port was inserted through the main incision. Massive corneal edema obscured the view and the anterior chamber was barely visible the following day. Scheimpflug imaging was used to complement slit lamp examination in the postoperative period. Frequent topical corticosteroid drops were initiated. After 5 days of treatment, multiple tears and detachment of DM were visible and the anterior chamber was filled with air. After 5 weeks, the cornea regained much of its clarity despite large DM tears and focal loss of DM. Conclusion: Despite partial loss of DM, the corneal edema mostly disappeared after 5 weeks of air bubble injection. Scheimpflug imaging was beneficial in the diagnosis and monitoring of DM tears and detachments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/20/JOVR-10-81.PMC4424724.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3793309", "abstract": " Purpose. Adjunctive zonisamide therapy was demonstrated to be beneficial for multiple-disabled patients with refractory childhood-onset epilepsy. Zonisamide is well tolerated, but urolithiasis and calcium sludge in the bladder were sometimes described in patients treated with antiepileptic drug polytherapy including zonisamide. In previous studies, alkaline urine and crystalluria were shown to be risk factors for urolithiasis. Therefore, the effects of zonisamide addition and withdrawal on the urinary pH and crystalluria were investigated in patients treated with antiepileptic drug polytherapy to clarify the cause of urolithiasis induced by zonisamide. Methods. The urinary pH and the degree of crystalluria were retrospectively studied in epilepsy patients one month after the addition or withdrawal of zonisamide as part of their antiepileptic drug treatment regimen over the previous three years. Results. A total of 27 zonisamide-on patients and 16 zonisamide-off patients were enrolled in the study. The urinary pH did not change after the addition or withdrawal of zonisamide. However, the degree of crystalluria significantly increased after the addition (P < 0.001) of zonisamide and decreased after its withdrawal (P < 0.01). Conclusions. Zonisamide induces crystalluria without alkalinization of the urine. Crystalluria should be carefully monitored in patients treated with zonisamide to prevent urolithiasis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d4/d8/PMC3793309.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4192877", "abstract": "Variations in the utilization of physicians' services by Medicare enrollees in Michigan are examined in this article. Two measures of market-area utilization are estimated. One is the standard per capita utilization rate, which has been the common focus of many small area variation studies. The second measures the intensity with which physicians treat their patients and can be taken as an indicator of the so-called practice-style phenomenon. The results show that, although substantial intermarket variation in per capita utilization is found, the variations are not as large as one might expect and are considerably less than the variations in per capita utilization for Michigan's Blue Shield population. More important, the relationship between a market's per capita utilization and intensity of care of primary care physicians is insignificant. The relevance of these findings, especially within the context of the practice style hypothesis and policy proposals that would establish physician practice norms, are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/dc/PMC4192877.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4620237", "abstract": "The term myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) refers to a heterogeneous group of diseases including not only polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), but also chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and systemic mastocytosis (SM). Despite the clinical and biological differences between these diseases, common pathophysiological mechanisms have been identified in MPN. First, aberrant tyrosine kinase signaling due to somatic mutations in certain driver genes is common to these MPN. Second, alterations of the bone marrow microenvironment are found in all MPN types and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of the diseases. Finally, elevated levels of proinflammatory and microenvironment-regulating cytokines are commonly found in all MPN-variants. In this paper, we review the effects of MPN-related oncogenes on cytokine expression and release and describe common as well as distinct pathogenetic mechanisms underlying microenvironmental changes in various MPN. Furthermore, targeting of the microenvironment in MPN is discussed. Such novel therapies may enhance the efficacy and may overcome resistance to established tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment in these patients. Nevertheless, additional basic studies on the complex interplay of neoplastic and stromal cells are required in order to optimize targeting strategies and to translate these concepts into clinical application.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3c/ae/PMC4620237.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4667657", "abstract": "Hypoxic conditions in various cancers are believed to relate with their malignancy, and hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) has been shown to be a major regulator of the response to low oxygen. In this study, we examined HIF-1α expression in canine lymphoma using cell lines and clinical samples and found that these cells expressed HIF-1α. Moreover, the HIF-1α inhibitors, echinomycin, YC-1 and 2-methoxyestradiol, suppressed the proliferation of canine lymphoma cell lines. In a xenograft model using NOD/scid mice, echinomycin treatment resulted in a dose-dependent regression of the tumor. Our results suggest that HIF-1α contributes to the proliferation and/or survival of canine lymphoma cells. Therefore, HIF-1α inhibitors may be potential agents to treat canine lymphoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/9c/jvms-77-1405.PMC4667657.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4509544", "abstract": "Background Contemporary literature suggests that medical education might adversely affect students’ mental health. Alfaisal University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is a developing institution; hence, there has been a concern regarding the mental well-being of the students. Objectives This study was designed to assess the traits of depression, anxiety, and stress among students in relation to potential underlying reasons. Methods All 575 medical students across the 5 years of study participated by filling out the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) questionnaire anonymously twice. Firstly, 2–3 weeks before a major examination (pre-examination), and secondly, during regular classes (post-examination). Correlation was sought regarding sex, year of scholarship, attendance of a premedical university preparatory program (UPP), housing, and smoking. Subjective comments from students were also obtained. Results A total of 76.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/42/17/ndt-11-1713.PMC4509544.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3611054", "abstract": "Bilateral abducens nerve palsy related to ruptured aneurysm of the anterior communicating artery (ACoA) has only been reported in four patients. Three cases were treated by surgical clipping. No report has described the clinical course of the isolated bilateral abducens nerve palsy following ruptured ACoA aneurysm obliterated with coil. A 32-year-old man was transferred to our institution after three days of diplopia, dizziness and headache after the onset of a 5-minute generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Computed tomographic angiography revealed an aneurysm of the ACoA. Magnetic resonance imaging showed focal intraventricular hemorrhage without brain stem abnormalities including infarction or space-occupying lesion. Endovascular coil embolization was conducted to obliterate an aneurysmal sac followed by lumbar cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage. Bilateral paresis of abducens nerve completely recovered 9 weeks after ictus. In conclusion, isolated bilateral abducens nerve palsy associated with ruptured ACoA aneurysm may be resolved successfully by coil embolization and lumbar CSF drainage without directly relieving cerebrospinal fluid pressure by opening Lillequist's membrane and prepontine cistern.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0c/92/jkns-53-112.PMC3611054.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3168909", "abstract": "This study investigated the ICD-9 diagnostic rates of depressive and anxiety disorders, including major depression, neurotic depression, adjustment disorder with depressed mood, depressive disorder NOS (not elsewhere classified), and anxiety states, among elderly Medicare beneficiaries (age ≥ 65) who received a colorectal cancer diagnosis between 1998 and 2002 in U.S. The Seer-Medicare data, representing 14–25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0a/db/PMC3168909.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5398400", "abstract": "Purpose The objective of this multicenter phase II study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of irinotecan and cisplatin combination chemotherapy in metastatic, unresectable esophageal cancer. Materials and Methods Patients were treated with irinotecan 65 mg/m2 and cisplatin 30 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8 of each 21-day treatment cycle. The primary endpoint was response rate, and secondary endpoints were survival, duration of response, initial metabolic response rate, and toxicity. Results A total of 27 patients with squamous cell histology were enrolled in the study. The median age of the patients was 61 years. The objective response rate of the 20 patients in the perprotocol group was 30.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ad/19/crt-2016-121.PMC5398400.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3404293", "abstract": "Purpose Despite the prevalence of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders, the degree to which medical schools are providing students the knowledge and confidence to treat these problems is unclear. This study evaluated MSK knowledge in second and fourth year medical students using a newly developed written assessment tool and examined the maturation of clinical confidence in treating core MSK disorders. Methods Over a 3-year period, the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) MSK subject examination consisting of 75 items was administered to 568 second and fourth year students at a single institution. Students were also asked to rate their confidence in treating a selection of medicine/pediatric and MSK clinical scenarios on a 5-point Likert scale. Results Participation rate was 98", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/9e/MEO-17-17092.PMC3404293.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4376228", "abstract": "The conceptualization of positive and negative states of aging is contentious at the inter- and intraparadigm level; lack of consensus exists within and between states. Working within their respective paradigms, successful aging and frailty researchers may have lost sight of the larger picture. Are successful aging researchers describing nonfrail individuals? Are frailty researchers describing unsuccessful aging? It is imperative that researchers are cognizant of the ways in which their perspectives are contextualized within the literature and within related paradigms, so as to be able to clearly communicate their research and to ensure they are working within the appropriate paradigm to facilitate desired outcomes. Here we discuss the similarities and differences between successful aging and frailty in terms of the scope and emphasis of their constituent components and functioning: both SA and frailty include biomedical components; SA examines the high end, whilst frailty predominately examines the low end of the functioning spectrum. Frailty models emphasize the biomedical realm, whilst SA models emphasize both the biomedical and the psychosocial.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/f1/cgj-18-35.PMC4376228.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3713933", "abstract": "Medical ethics is an indispensible and challenging aspect of clinical practice. This is particularly prominent in the field of organ transplantation. In this paper, initially, a clinical case with brain death that ended up as an organ donor will be presented. Following the presentation, important moral challenges which initially formed medical ethics and some highlights of it in organ transplantation will be discussed in detail. The impact of complex modern influential factors that might interfere with the practice of medical ethics in this field such as patients’ vulnerability, financial temptations, and legal regulations will be also dealt with. Finally, we shall propose practical guidelines aiming at improving the practice of medical ethics in the emerging issue of organ transplantation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d8/b0/jmehm-4-10.PMC3713933.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2686474", "abstract": "The AthaMap database generates a map of predicted transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) for the whole Arabidopsis thaliana genome. AthaMap has now been extended to include data on post-transcriptional regulation. A total of 403 173 genomic positions of small RNAs have been mapped in the A. thaliana genome. These identify 5772 putative post-transcriptionally regulated target genes. AthaMap tools have been modified to improve the identification of common TFBS in co-regulated genes by subtracting post-transcriptionally regulated genes from such analyses. Furthermore, AthaMap was updated to the TAIR7 genome annotation, a graphic display of gene analysis results was implemented, and the TFBS data content was increased. AthaMap is freely available at http://www.athamap.de/.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/e6/gkn709.PMC2686474.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3388026", "abstract": "Fidaxomicin was recently approved for the treatment of Clostridium difficile infection. It inhibits transcription by bacterial RNA polymerase. Because transcription is a multistep process, experiments were conducted in which fidaxomicin was added at different stages of transcriptional initiation to identify the blocked step. DNA footprinting experiments were also conducted to further elucidate the stage inhibited. Fidaxomicin blocks initiation only if added before the formation of the “open promoter complex,” in which the template DNA strands have separated but RNA synthesis has not yet begun. Binding of fidaxomicin precludes the initial separation of DNA strands that is prerequisite to RNA synthesis. These studies show that it has a mechanism distinct from that of elongation inhibitors, such as streptolydigin, and from the transcription initiation inhibitors myxopyronin and the rifamycins.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/44/cis358.PMC3388026.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4373052", "abstract": "Ganglioneuromas are benign tumors. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice with very good prognosis. However, neuroblastomatous malignant transformation of ganglioneuromas was previously reported. We report a patient with spinal neuroblastoma recurrent from a ganglioneuroblastoma after disease free survival of 13 years. This is one of the rare examples of spinal neuroblastoma and to our knowledge the second case report with malignant transformation from a ganglioneuroblastoma or a ganglioneuroma. The present case is the only report in the literature with further genetic investigations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/4c/jkns-57-211.PMC4373052.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4247423", "abstract": "da Vinci robotic surgery is becoming a standard alternative to open and laparoscopic surgical techniques. Robotic partial nephrectomy has been described in limited numbers. In this article, a surgical atlas of the transperitoneal four-arm approach to robotic partial nephrectomy is outlined. Surgical pearls, pitfalls, and limitations are reviewed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3a/0f/11701_2007_Article_55.PMC4247423.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2627184", "abstract": "Milk of calcium located in the breast is typically a benign entity. However, carcinoma may incidentally arise adjacent to or even within milk of calcium. Consequently, the characteristics of all observed calcific particles should be carefully analyzed. In this study, we report a case of carcinoma presented as malignant microcalcifications mixed within milk of calcium in a breast.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/68/kjr-9-S7.PMC2627184.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3004604", "abstract": "Health care is an everlasting challenge that requires effort at all levels, from national and organizational to individual domains, over a long-term period. This article reviews the historical development of health care-related issues worldwide and accentuates the necessity of health care in the current era. Through investigating the historical background in both the occidental and the oriental worlds and the latest achievements from academic and industrial endeavors, many lessons can be learnt, and as a result, an integrative strategy is proposed to meet today’s pressing needs. A government-funded project, “Challenge to 100 years of age”, which involved more than 600 residents in west Aizu village, lasted over 15 years. After reviewing its outcomes, a metrology of health based upon the three-dimensional phase space, which integrates with social well-being, mental status, and physical condition for a lifelong span, is advocated as a measure of the holistic view of health state.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/d0/PMC3004604.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2913544", "abstract": "Sedation and analgesia performed by the pediatrician and pediatric subspecialists are becoming increasingly common for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in children with developmental disabilities and neurologic disorders (autism, epilepsy, stroke, obstructive hydrocephalus, traumatic brain injury, intracranial hemorrhage, and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy). The overall objectives of this paper are (1) to provide an overview on recent studies that highlight the increased risk for respiratory complications following sedation and analgesia in children with developmental disabilities and neurologic disorders, (2) to provide a better understanding of sedatives and analgesic medications which are commonly used in children with developmental disabilities and neurologic disorders on the central nervous system. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/cc/PMC2913544.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2905620", "abstract": "The variable array of pattern receptor expression in different cells of the innate immune system explains the induction of distinct patterns of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism. Peptidoglycan and mannan were strong stimuli in neutrophils, whereas the fungal extract zymosan was the most potent stimulus in monocyte-derived dendritic cells since it induced the production of PGE2, PGD2, and several cytokines including a robust IL-10 response. Zymosan activated κB-binding activity, but inhibition of NF-κB was associated with enhanced IL-10 production. In contrast, treatments acting on CREB (CRE binding protein), including PGE2, showed a direct correlation between CREB activation and IL-10 production. Therefore, in dendritic cells zymosan induces il10 transcription by a CRE-dependent mechanism that involves autocrine secretion of PGE2, thus unraveling a functional cooperation between eicosanoid production and cytokine production.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/85/97/PMC2905620.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5226396", "abstract": "The promise of drug repurposing is that existing drugs may be used for new disease indications in order to curb the high costs and time for approval. The goal of computational methods for drug repurposing is to enable solutions for safer, cheaper and faster drug discovery. Towards this end, we developed a novel method that integrates genetic and clinical phenotype data from large-scale GWAS and PheWAS studies with detailed drug information on the concept of transitive Drug-Gene-Disease triads. We created \"RE:fine Drugs,\" a freely available, interactive dashboard that automates gene, disease and drug-based searches to identify drug repurposing candidates. This web-based tool supports a user-friendly interface that includes an array of advanced search and export options. Results can be prioritized in a variety of ways, including but not limited to, biomedical literature support, strength and statistical significance of GWAS and/or PheWAS associations, disease indications and molecular drug targets. Here we provide a protocol that illustrates the functionalities available in the \"RE:fine Drugs\" system and explores the different advanced options through a case study.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cb/da/jove-118-54948.PMC5226396.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5103569", "abstract": "Background: As the most common form of dementia, Alzheimer disease is characterized by progressive loss of memory and deterioration of cognitive functions. It is predicted that about 75.63 million people would suffer from dementia by 2030. Apart from conventional remedies, the application of herbal medicines is on the rise. There are numerous natural medicaments reported in the traditional manuscript of Persian medicine. Accordingly, in the present study, the intended remedy was selected and an appropriate pharmacognostical and pharmaceutical evaluations were performed. Methods: By searching through the traditional pharmaceutical manuscripts such as Qarabadeen-e-Salehi, Qarabadeen-e-Azam, Qarabadeen-e-Ghaderi and Canon of Medicine, a simple but proven compound remedy (frankincense and black pepper) was selected. A floating tablet was designed and formulated from those herbal components. Related pharmaceutical assessments such as weight variation, hardness, friability, and disintegration tests as well as pharmacognostical evaluations such as microscopic characterization, TLC, GC/MS, FT/IR fingerprints, and radical scavenging activity assessment (DPPH) were performed. Results: The resulting formulation, as a floating tablet, included 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0c/a7/IJMS-41-6.PMC5103569.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4464026", "abstract": "Syringocystadenocarcinoma papilliferum (SCACP) is a very rare cutaneous adnexal neoplasm. SCACP presents histologic variability, and it is difficult to establish the diagnosis from a punch biopsy. SCACP has an overall configuration similar to that of syringocystadenoma papilliferum (SCAP). When we diagnose SCACP, the histologic features of SCAP can be contributing and immunohistochemical staining is useful. Our case shows the histologic variability of SCACP and the pitfalls of a punch biopsy for the diagnosis of SCACP.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c4/e1/cde-0007-0084.PMC4464026.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3015771", "abstract": "Amyand's hernia (appendix in the sac of an inguinal hernia) although rare is a fairly well-recognized clinical entity. It is associated with an increased risk of developing appendicitis. Amyand's hernia can be repaired by open or laparoscopic methods. We present the case of a laparoscopic extraperitoneal repair with a potential hazard when repairing this type of hernia in this manner, and we review the literature on this condition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dc/56/jsls-10-4-528.PMC3015771.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3703078", "abstract": "Background: Diabetes has a high prevalence in Iran, and its incidence is estimated to increase from 3.5 million adults in 2005 to 5.1 million by 2025. Given the high prevalence of diabetes in Iranians, it is surprising that little is known about understanding of diabetes in the general population. This study aimed to explore how people without diabetes interpreted the disease. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted as a qualitative content analysis, using unstructured and in-depth interviews, with the participation of 21 individuals without diabetes (13 women and 8 men), 18-61 years old, who were selected for this purpose from the cities of Isfahan and Tehran from October 2010 to May 2011. The data were analyzed using latent content analysis method. Results: The participants had different beliefs and ideas about diabetes and most of them gave a negative and black image of diabetes. Although a small number of individuals considered diabetes better than AIDS and cancer, they often took diabetes as blackness, end of romances, and a gradual death. Conclusion: However, the study sample was small. The findings show that the participants’ perspective on diabetes is negative and destructive. It seems shaping a new identity in the path of empowerment could be difficult within the social and cultural context. These findings can give an insight to health care providers to realize how important it is to find the public perception about diabetes. They are responsible to change or modify the public view on diabetes by introducing the disease with the help of prominent people and educating individuals in the society on all aspects of living with diabetes, not simply the symptoms and disabilities it brings along.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/09/IJNMR-17-370.PMC3703078.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4167315", "abstract": "BACKGROUND One in 88 children in the US is thought to have one of the autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). ASDs are characterized by social impairments and communication problems. Growth factors and their receptors may play a role in the etiology of ASDs. Research has shown that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation is associated with nerve cell development and repair. This study was designed to measure plasma levels of EGFR in autistic children and correlate these levels with its ligand, epidermal growth factor, other related putative biomarkers such as hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), the ligand for MET (MNNG HOS transforming gene) receptor, as well as the symptom severity of 19 different behavioral symptoms. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Plasma EGFR concentration was measured in 33 autistic children and 34 age- and gender-similar neurotypical controls, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Plasma EGFR levels were compared to putative biomarkers known to be associated with EGFR and MET and severity levels of 19 autism-related symptoms. RESULTS We found plasma EGFR levels significantly higher in autistic children, when compared to neurotypical controls. EGFR levels correlated with HGF and high-mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) levels, but not other tested putative biomarkers, and EGFR levels correlated significantly with severity of expressive language, conversational language, focus/attention, hyperactivity, eye contact, and sound sensitivity deficiencies. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest a relationship between increased plasma EGFR levels and designated symptom severity in autistic children. A strong correlation between plasma EGFR and HGF and HMGB1 suggests that increased EGFR levels may be associated with the HGF/Met signaling pathway, as well as inflammation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ff/d2/PMC4167315.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2920400", "abstract": "A lithography-free method for fabricating the nanogrids and quasi-beehive nanostructures on Si substrates is developed. It combines sequential treatments of thermal annealing with reactive ion etching (RIE) on SiGe thin films grown on (100)-Si substrates. The SiGe thin films deposited by ultrahigh vacuum chemical vapor deposition form self-assembled nanoislands via the strain-induced surface roughening (Asaro-Tiller-Grinfeld instability) during thermal annealing, which, in turn, serve as patterned sacrifice regions for subsequent RIE process carried out for fabricating nanogrids and beehive-like nanostructures on Si substrates. The scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy observations confirmed that the resultant pattern of the obtained structures can be manipulated by tuning the treatment conditions, suggesting an interesting alternative route of producing self-organized nanostructures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/21/1556-276X-5-1456.PMC2920400.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3969152", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of growing-up milk (GUM) with added short-chain galacto-oligosaccharides (scGOS)/long-chain fructo-oligosaccharides (lcFOS) (9:1) (Immunofortis) and n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) on the occurrence of infections in healthy children attending day care centres. Methods: In a randomised double-blind controlled, parallel, multicountry intervention study, 767 healthy children, ages 11 to 29 months, received GUM with scGOS/lcFOS/LCPUFAs (the active group, n = 388), GUM without scGOS/lcFOS/LCPUFAs (the control group, n = 379), or cow's milk (n = 37) for 52 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the number of episodes of upper respiratory tract infections or gastrointestinal infections based on a combination of subject's illness symptoms reported by the parents during the intervention period. Results: Children in the active group compared with the control group had a decreased risk of developing at least 1 infection (299/388 [77", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/8b/jpga-58-428.PMC3969152.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4540887", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of conservative treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome with physical exercise. [Subjects and Methods] A computer-based review conducted of four databases (PubMed, the Cochrane Library, PEDro, and the University Library) was completed based on the inclusion criteria of patellofemoral pain syndrome patients treated with physical exercise methods and examination with self-reported pain and/or functional questionnaires. [Results] The findings of ten clinical trials of moderate to high quality were evaluated to determine the effectiveness of physical exercise as conservative management for patellofemoral pain syndrome. [Conclusion] The intervention programs that were most effective in relieving pain and improving function in patellofemoral pain syndrome included proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching and strengthening exercises for the hip external rotator and abductor muscles and knee extensor muscles.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/59/jpts-27-2387.PMC4540887.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4901949", "abstract": "Background and Purpose We aimed to investigate the usefulness of combining transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) to evaluate corticospinal tract (CST) integrity and subsequently predict ambulatory function after middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke. Methods Forty-three patients with first MCA stroke underwent TMS and DTT to evaluate CST integrity. Patients were classified into four groups according to the presence of motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) obtained from the tibialis anterior muscle and CST integrity. Motor impairment and functional status were assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Functional Ambulation Category, and Korean modified Barthel Index, both at the time of admission and after 4 weeks of rehabilitation. Results Patients with the presence of both measurable MEPs and a preserved CST showed better motor recovery and ambulatory function than other groups at the 4-week follow-up. Intact CSTs were not visualized in patients without detectable MEPs. Among the patients displaying MEPs, those with preserved CSTs showed better recovery of paretic lower extremities. Conclusions Combined assessment using TMS and DTT to evaluate CST integrity confers advantages in predicting motor and ambulation recovery in patients with MCA stroke.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/27/2e/jos-2015-01767.PMC4901949.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4363640", "abstract": "Saccade adaptation is a cerebellar-mediated type of motor learning in which the oculomotor system is exposed to repetitive errors. Different types of saccade adaptations are thought to involve distinct underlying cerebellar mechanisms. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) induces changes in neuronal excitability in a polarity-specific manner and offers a modulatory, noninvasive, functional insight into the learning aspects of different brain regions. We aimed to modulate the cerebellar influence on saccade gains during adaptation using tDCS. Subjects performed an inward (n = 10) or outward (n = 10) saccade adaptation experiment (25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/13/e6/PMC4363640.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3157077", "abstract": " Aim. To assess the knowledge and practice of PHC physicians toward the detection and management of hypertension (HTN) and other CVD risk factors. Methods. A cross-sectional study of all primary health care physicians of the FHU of three rural districts of Egypt was conducted. Each physician was subjected to a prevalidated interview questionnaire on the WHO-CVD risk management package for low and medium resources, and a checklist of observation of daily practices. Results. Hypertension was a priority problem in about two-thirds (62.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/c6/PMC3157077.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3084040", "abstract": "A 32-year-old man suffering from keratoconus was treated with radial keratotomy. Twenty weeks later, he presented visual deterioration, edema and corneal perforation. A penetrating keratoplasty was required. The postoperative course was regular, but after 9 months, the patient presented kerato-uveitis. Subsequent phlogistic relapses occurred approximately every 6 months during the following 5 years. The performed cultures were positive only during the first episode. Radial keratotomy is not indicated in keratoconus. The multiple relapses of kerato-uveitis could not be explained by infection, and we hypothesized that they may be due to a ‘traumatic memory’ of the cornea caused by the several suffered traumatisms, without clinical features of corneal graft rejection. The risks of new penetrating keratoplasty and cataract surgery are high. As the cornea is the tissue with the highest sensitivity in the body, we tried to explain the relapsing kerato-uveitis as a consequence of the disruption of the nervous corneal network.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4f/66/cop0002-0123.PMC3084040.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3087487", "abstract": "The recent proposed criteria for Alzheimer's Disease (AD) have strongly claimed the usefulness of biological and neuroimaging markers for early identification AD. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Tau/Abeta ratio, hippocampal atrophy, posterior cingulate, and neocortical associative area hypometabolism, or amyloid burden evaluated by PiB compound, held the premises to increase diagnostic accuracy in the preclinical disease stages. Despite many efforts to identify subjects at risk of developing AD, less attention has been paid to presenile AD diagnosis. A few data are already available in early onset AD, mainly obtained in cases of monogenic disorder. In this paper, we discuss the current literature on the role of biological and neuroimaging markers in presenile AD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2f/82/PMC3087487.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3399402", "abstract": "Introduction Typical spike-and-wave activity (TSWA) in the electroencephalogram (EEG) indicates idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE). IGE-related nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) is typically an absence status epilepticus (ASE). ASE and TSWA respond dramatically to benzodiazepines. Patients with no history of seizure/epilepsy may develop ASE “de novo” in the context of an acute brain disorder. However, we are aware of only one previous case of de novo ASE with TSWA in hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. Case presentation A 65-year-old man, with congestive heart failure and history of substance abuse, survived cardiorespiratory arrest after 18 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Post-resuscitation, the patient was in coma with intact brainstem function. Toxicology was positive for cocaine and marijuana. Eyelid myoclonus suggested NCSE, which was initially treated with lorazepam and fosphenytoin. EEG monitoring showed sustained TSWA confirming NCSE and demonstrating de novo ASE (the patient and his family never had seizure/epilepsy). The TSWA was resistant to lorazepam, levetiracetam, and low-dose midazolam; it was eliminated only with midazolam at a dose that resulted in burst-suppression (≥1.2 mg/kg/hour). Conclusion This is an unusual case of TSWA and hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in a patient with no history of seizure/epilepsy. The TSWA was relatively resistant to benzodiazepines suggesting that cerebral hypoxia-ischemia spared the thalamocortical apparatus generating TSWA but impaired the cortical/thalamic inhibitory circuits where benzodiazepines act to suppress TSWA. Albeit rare, ‘post-hypoxic’ TSWA offers us some valuable insights for classifying and managing nonconvulsive status epilepticus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/ec/PMC3399402.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5023857", "abstract": "Abstract Background: Thymoma is a T cell neoplasm arising from the thymic epithelium that due to its immunological role, frequently undercover derangements of immunity such a tumors and autoimmune diseases. Methods: Herein, we report, to the best of our knowledge, the first description of an association between thymoma and adult onset Still disease (AOSD) in a 47-year-old man. The first one was occasionally detected 4 years later the diagnosis of AOSD, and surgically removed via right lateral thoracotomy. Histology confirmed an encapsulated thymic tumor (type AB sec. WHO-classification). Results: The AOSD was particularly resistant to the therapy, requiring a combination of immunosuppressant followed by anti-IL1R, that was the only steroids-sparing treatment capable to induce and maintain the remission. The differential diagnosis was particularly challenging because of the severe myasthenic-like symptoms that, with normal laboratory tests, were initially misinterpreted as fibromyalgia. The pathogenic link of this association could be a thymus escape of autoreactive T lymphocytes causing autoimmunity. Conclusion: Clinicians should be always include the possibility of a thymoma in the differential diagnosis of an unusual new onset of weakness and normal laboratories data, in particular once autoimmune disease is present in the medical history.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/c6/medi-95-e4357.PMC5023857.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3633380", "abstract": "Goal: Polypharmacy and drug-related problems (DRPs) have been shown to prevail in hospitalized patients. We evaluated the prevalence of polypharmacy; and investigated relationship between polypharmacy and: symptoms of DRPs, number of drugs and OTC, index of cumulative morbidity, length of exposure to polypharmacy and the number of days of hospital stay among hospitalized patients. Methodology: A study was performed in Pharmacies „Eufarm Edal“ Tuzla from 2010 to 2011. Polypharmacy was defined as using ≥ 3 drugs. The total study sample of 226 examiners were interviewed with special constructed questionnaires about DRPs. Experimental study group consisted of hospital patients with polypharmacy (n=166) and control group hospital patients without polypharmacy (n=60). Mann-Whitney test was used to test for significant self-reported symptom differences between groups and cross sectional subgroups, t- test and χ2- test for age, gender and treatment data in hospital. Results: The prevalence of polypharmacy was 74", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/a0/MSM-24-68.PMC3633380.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1665229", "abstract": "The natural history of hepatocellular carcinoma is variable. In many patients the tumor has a long-lasting subclinical incubation period and often grows as a solitary mass to a size at which it can be detected by ultrasound. In other patients, however, the onset of the tumor is multinodal with great variations in the growth rates. Prognostication of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma takes into account the size and number of tumor nodes and their relation to the portal veins, and the degree of liver impairment. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7e/f8/PMC1665229.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4719231", "abstract": "Introduction: In performing quadricepsplasty for contracture that develops after application of an external fixator for femoral fractures, surgeons must be aware of the potential risk for re-fracture and pin-related problems. The purpose of this report is to highlight these not well-detailed complications and to discuss specific findings and treatment suggestions. Case Series: 4 men (mean age, 40 years) presenting with secondary to contracture that developed after application of an external fixator for femoral fractures were included in this study. The radiographs showed union across the fracture site however two of these patients couldn’t stand on one leg raising suspicion about the union status. A computed tomographic image indeed demonstrated limited continuity of the cortex. Bone grafting was performed prior to quadricepsplasty. The mean extension and flexion before the quadricepsplasty were 0° and 57°, respectively. At the final follow-up examination, the mean active flexion of the knee had increased to 98°. Results: The incidence of re-fracture during and after quadricepsplasty has been reported to be between 10 and 25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/72/JOCR-3-3.PMC4719231.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3148595", "abstract": "Primary hydatid cyst of thyroid gland is an exceptional localization even in Morocco where echinococcal disease is endemic. A 23-year-old woman presented with multiples cystic lesions of the thyroid revealed by neck mass and dyspnea. She underwent a subtotal thyroidectomy. The diagnosis of hydatid cyst was made preoperatively and was confirmed by histological studies. Further investigation failed to identify any other evidence of systemic hydatidosis. The patient has remained asymptomatic for 24 months after surgery. The possibility of hydatid disease, though rare, should be always kept in mind, for patients with cystic lesions of the thyroid, because a needle aspiration biopsy is a potentially harmful procedure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b2/2c/PMC3148595.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4694692", "abstract": "Background Fluticasone furoate/vilanterol (FF/VI) is a novel, once-daily, inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting β2-agonist combination approved for the treatment of COPD and asthma. We compared the safety and efficacy of FF/VI and tiotropium (TIO) in subjects with moderate-to-severe COPD with greater risk for comorbid cardiovascular disease (CVD). Methods This randomized, blinded, double-dummy, parallel-group study compared a once-daily morning dose of FF/VI 100/25 mcg delivered via ELLIPTA™ with TIO 18 mcg via HandiHaler® for 12 weeks in subjects with diagnosed COPD, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/27/bb/copd-11-001.PMC4694692.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4668194", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of joint mobilization and stretching of the thoracic cage for very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on a patient with thoracic kyphosis. [Subject and Methods] The subject is a 73-year-old female COPD patient with thoracic kyphosis. The intervention methods were comprised of joint mobilization and stretching. The program consisted of 30 minute sessions three days per week for eight weeks. Respiratory function, spinal curve, and spinal movement (thoracic and lumbar spine) were measured. [Results] Joint mobilization and stretching did not result in noticeable changes in the respiratory function of the patient; however, positive changes were observed, including decreased thoracic kyphosis curve, increased lumbar lordosis curve, and increased spinal movement. [Conclusion] The results of the analysis show that the patient’s age, body mass index, duration of the disease, COPD level, and posture should be considered in the clinical decision to perform pulmonary physical therapy for patients with complicated diseases such as COPD with thoracic kyphosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/20/5a/jpts-27-3329.PMC4668194.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5301066", "abstract": "Background: Beginning and continuing pregnancy with obesity and being overweight has some known side effects for the mother and the fetus. Preventing these complications requires medical interventions before pregnancy. Because designing health improvement interventions requires understanding of the related factors of the behavior, the aim of this study was to determine the relation between health beliefs of women regarding the risks of obesity for pregnancy and stages of behavioral changes in women under preconception care. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional study that was conducted on 120 obese and overweight women under preconception care. Health belief structures including perceived sensitivity/intensity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, and perceived self-efficacy were measured using a questionnaire, and its relation with stages of nutrition and physical activity behavior changes was evaluated according to a transtheoretical model. Results: Results showed a significant correlation between the stage of nutrition behavioral change and perceived sensitivity/intensity, perceived benefits, and self-efficacy (P < 0.05). In addition, the stage of physical activity behavioral change showed a negative and significant correlation with perceived barriers and a positive and low-to-moderate significant correlation with other health belief structures (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the relation of perceived sensitivity/intensity with perceived benefits and self-efficacy was positive and significant, and that with perceived barriers was negative and significant (P < 0.01). Conclusions: Results showed that a health belief model could be a predictor of weight adjustment behaviors including nutrition and physical activity behaviors. Therefore, educational interventions based on a health belief model could be effective for improvement of these behaviors in obese and overweight women under preconception care.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/ac/IJNMR-21-595.PMC5301066.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3791363", "abstract": "Xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC) is a rare form of chronic cholecystitis that is accompanied by xanthomatous histiocytes and chronic inflammation. A 2-month-old boy presented with a right upper abdominal palpable mass. Cholecystectomy with liver wedge resection was done, under the impression that the mass might be a hepatic tumor or liver abscess. Pathologic examination showed XGC with abscess formation. Most cases of XGC were observed in adult and only a few cases were reported in children. We describe a very rare case of XGC in infancy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6e/4c/jkss-85-191.PMC3791363.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3508586", "abstract": "Cancer remains a major cause of death, although research is ongoing for the development of more effective drugs. Some herbs have shown potential in preventing the occurrence and/or progression of cancer and other chronic diseases. They are being screened comprehensively to explore the possibility of development of feasible anticancer drugs. However, more information is required about the response to and the molecular target for specific herbs. It seems that there is a relationship between some medicinal herbs and tumor suppressor molecules which protect a cell from cancer. In this paper, we summarize the progress of recent research on herbs, with a particular focus on its anticancer role and molecular mechanisms underlying the cancer prevention property, supporting design for further research in this field.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0d/16/PMC3508586.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5097340", "abstract": "Background Nocturnal enuresis, often called bedwetting or sleep wetting, is a common problem in children after the age of five and may lead to symptoms such as infection, incontinence and frequent urination. This problem refers to a state in which children after the age of five have no control of their urine for six continuous months and it cannot be attributed to any organic factors or drug use. Objectives In this study we aimed to study generalized anxiety disorder as one of the possible causes of primary nocturnal enuresis. Materials and Methods In this case-control study 180 children with primary nocturnal enuresis and same number of healthy children with a mean age of 7 - 17 years old with the same demographic characteristics were selected. The study took place at Amir Kabir hospital of Arak, Iran during year 2014. After collecting the information, diagnosis was verified based on the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM) IV-TR criteria. Results were analyzed using the SPSS software (IBM Corp. Released 2011. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 20.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.). Results Frequency of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, school phobia, social anxiety, separation anxiety, history of anxiety in mother, history of primary nocturnal enuresis in parent’s family and body mass index had a significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.005). Conclusions With the results obtained from this study we could say that there was a clear significant difference between the two control and patient groups for all subgroups of anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder and their relationship with primary nocturnal enuresis. Given the higher prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, school phobia, social anxiety, separation anxiety and comparison with healthy children, it is recommended for all children with primary nocturnal enuresis to be investigated and treated for generalized anxiety disorder.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/55/ijpbs-10-02-4462.PMC5097340.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2127223", "abstract": "Ionizing radiations produce deleterious effects in the living organisms and the rapid technological advancement has increased human exposure to ionizing radiations enormously. There is a need to protect humans against such effects of ionizing radiation. Attempts to protect against the deleterious effects of ionizing radiations by pharmacological intervention were made as early as 1949 and efforts are continued to search radioprotectors, which may be of great help for human application. This review mainly dwells on the radioprotective potential of plant and herbal extracts. The results obtained from in vitro and in vivo studies indicate that several botanicals such as Gingko biloba, Centella asiatica, Hippophae rhamnoides, Ocimum sanctum, Panax ginseng, Podophyllum hexandrum, Amaranthus paniculatus, Emblica officinalis, Phyllanthus amarus, Piper longum, Tinospora cordifoila, Mentha arvensis, Mentha piperita, Syzygium cumini, Zingiber officinale, Ageratum conyzoides, Aegle marmelos and Aphanamixis polystachya protect against radiation-induced lethality, lipid peroxidation and DNA damage. The fractionation-guided evaluation may help to develop new radioprotectors of desired activities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f8/7f/PMC2127223.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3173044", "abstract": "Background Berberine hydrochloride is a conventional component in Chinese medicine, and is characterized by a diversity of pharmacological effects. However, due to its hydrophobic properties, along with poor stability and bioavailability, the application of berberine hydrochloride was hampered for a long time. In recent years, the pharmaceutical preparation of berberine hydrochloride has improved to achieve good prospects for clinical application, especially for novel nanoparticulate delivery systems. Moreover, anticancer activity and novel mechanisms have been explored, the chance of regulating glucose and lipid metabolism in cancer cells showing more potential than ever. Therefore, it is expected that appropriate pharmaceutical procedures could be applied to the enormous potential for anticancer efficacy, to give some new insights into anticancer drug preparation in Chinese medicine. Methods and results We accessed conventional databases, such as PubMed, Scope, and Web of Science, using “berberine hydrochloride”, “anti-cancer mechanism”, and “nanoparticulate delivery system” as search words, then summarized the progress in research, illustrating the need to explore reprogramming of cancer cell metabolism using nanoparticulate drug delivery systems. Conclusion With increasing research on regulation of cancer cell metabolism by berberine hydrochloride and troubleshooting of issues concerning nanoparticulate delivery preparation, berberine hydrochloride is likely to become a natural component of the nanoparticulate delivery systems used for cancer therapy. Meanwhile, the known mechanisms of berberine hydrochloride, such as decreased multidrug resistance and enhanced sensitivity of chemotherapeutic drugs, along with improvement in patient quality of life, could also provide new insights into cancer cell metabolism and nanoparticulate delivery preparation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b8/6d/PMC3173044.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5175058", "abstract": "Ebola virus disease (EVD), formerly known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever, is a severe, often fatal illness in humans. Ebola virus (EBOV) is transmitted through contact with blood or body fluids of a person who contracted or died from EVD, contaminated objects like needles and infected animals or bush meat. EVD has an incubation period of 2 to 21 days, and the infection has an acute onset without any carrier status. Currently, there is no standard treatment for EVD, so it is important to avoid infection or further spreading of the virus. Although historically the mortality of this infection exceeded 80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/07/ac/NCI-2-81.PMC5175058.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5337431", "abstract": "The syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) is the most common cause of euvolemic hyponatremia, and many medications have been associated with SIADH. Pregabalin is a drug used for the treatment of neuropathic pain, though common adverse effects include central nervous system disturbance, peripheral edema, and weight gain. However, hyponatremia caused by pregabalin has been rarely reported. Here we report a patient with pregabalin-induced hyponatremia who met the criteria for SIADH; after discontinuation of the drug, his condition rapidly improved. This case can help clinicians diagnose and treat new-onset hyponatremia in patients who recently initiated pregabalin therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/4a/ebp-14-31.PMC5337431.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4347799", "abstract": "Background: Traumatic events are one of the major causes of arterial injuries. Physical examination is not a good predictor of the extent of injuries and arteriography is considered as the gold standard for this purpose. In the recent years, noninvasive modalities are increasingly replacing diagnostic arteriography. Color Doppler ultrasonography (USG) is an excellent method to investigate arterial diseases. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of color Doppler USG compared to conventional angiography in traumatic arterial injuries of extremities. Patients and Methods: Seventy-five patients with extremity trauma suspicious for arterial injury were examined by color Doppler USG just before angiography. Doppler pattern and flow states were assessed, then angiography was performed. The results of duplex USG were compared with angiography. Results: Color Doppler USG had a sensitivity of 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/94/b3/iranjradiol-12-01-14258.PMC4347799.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2854923", "abstract": "Cortical laminar necrosis has been rarely observed in osmotic demyelination syndrome. We report a 32-year-old female patient who became comatose after the rapid correction of hyponatremia. There were high signal intensities in the pons and bilateral deep gray nuclei on T2-weighted MRI images, and linear hyperintensities along the cerebral cortices on T1-weighted images with a diffuse gyriform enhancement. MR spectroscopic findings showed a decrease of the N-acetyl aspartate peak and an increase in those of the lipid and lactate complex. The case demonstrates that a severe form of osmotic demyelination syndrome accompanying cortical laminar necrosis can result from the rapid correction of hyponatremia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/03/17/PMC2854923.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3259445", "abstract": "PURPOSE This study evaluated marginal fit of glass infiltrated alumina cores fabricated using two techniques and their marginal stability after firing cycles of veneering porcelain. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifteen standardized all-ceramic crowns were fabricated on a metal die using each technique: slip cast technique of VITA In-Ceram sprint Alumina (Group A as control) and plastic foil matrix technique of Turkom-Cera fused alumina core system (Group B). Copings were compared between groups and within groups at coping stage and after firing each layer of veneering porcelain. A device was used to standardize seating of copings on the metal die and positioning of the specimens under the microscope after each stage of fabrication. The specimens were not cemented and marginal gap was measured using an image analyzing software (Imagepro Express) on the photographs captured under an optical microscope. Two tailed unpaired 't test' was used to compare marginal gaps in two groups and one way ANOVA was used to analyze marginal distortion within each group at 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/8c/jap-3-196.PMC3259445.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3719053", "abstract": "Abstract Ultrasound elastography (USE) is a rapidly developing field of imaging that measures and displays tissue elasticity or stiffness properties using ultrasound. In recent years, real-time USE modes have appeared on commercially available clinical ultrasound machines, stimulating an explosion of research into potential oncologic and non-oncologic clinical applications of USE. Preliminary evidence suggests that USE can differentiate benign and malignant conditions accurately in several different tissues. This article presents an overview of the basic principles of different USE technologies that are currently under investigation in the head and neck region. In addition, more practical aspects pertaining to the optimal performance of USE at this site are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/27/21/PMC3719053.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3714442", "abstract": "Pathogenic microbes secrete various enzymes with lipolytic activities to facilitate their survival within the host. Lipolytic enzymes include extracellular lipases and phospholipases, and several lines of evidence have suggested that these enzymes contribute to the virulence of pathogenic fungi. Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans are the most commonly isolated human fungal pathogens, and several biochemical and molecular approaches have identified their extracellular lipolytic enzymes. The role of lipases and phospholipases in the virulence of C. albicans has been extensively studied, and these enzymes have been shown to contribute to C. albicans morphological transition, colonization, cytotoxicity, and penetration to the host. While not much is known about the lipases in C. neoformans, the roles of phospholipases in the dissemination of fungal cells in the host and in signaling pathways have been described. Lipolytic enzymes may also influence the survival of the lipophilic cutaneous pathogenic yeast Malassezia species within the host, and an unusually high number of lipase-coding genes may complement the lipid dependency of this fungus. This review briefly describes the current understanding of the lipolytic enzymes in major human fungal pathogens, namely C. albicans, C. neoformans, and Malassezia spp.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/94/mb-41-67.PMC3714442.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3302128", "abstract": "Background: Endogenous or exogenous glucocorticoid (GC) excess (Cushing's syndrome) is characterized by increased adiposity and insulin resistance. Although GCs cause global insulin resistance in vivo, we have previously shown that GCs are able to augment insulin action in human adipose tissue, contrasting with their action in skeletal muscle. Cushing's syndrome develops following chronic GC exposure and, in addition, is a state of hyperinsulinemia. Objectives: We have therefore compared the impact of short- (24 h) and long-term (7 days) GC administration on insulin signalling in differentiated human adipocytes in the presence of low or high concentrations of insulin. Results: Both short- (24 h) and long-term (7 days) treatment of chub-s7 cells with dexamethasone (Dex) (0.5 μ) increased insulin-stimulated pTyr612IRS1 and pSer473akt/PKB, consistent with insulin sensitization. Chronic high-dose insulin treatment induced insulin resistance in chub-s7 cells. However, treatment with both high-dose insulin and Dex in combination still caused insulin sensitization. Conclusions: In this human subcutaneous adipocyte cell line, prolonged GC exposure, even in the presence of high insulin concentrations, is able to cause insulin sensitization. We suggest that this is an important mechanism driving adipogenesis and contributes to the obese phenotype of patients with Cushing's syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fb/3e/nutd20103a.PMC3302128.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4385695", "abstract": "Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) is an experimental polymicrobial sepsis induced systemic inflammation that leads to acute organ failure. Aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of SP600125, a specific c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor, to modulate the early and late steps of the inflammatory cascade in a murine model of CLP-induced sepsis. CB57BL/6J mice were subjected to CLP or sham operation. Animals were randomized to receive either SP600125 (15 mg/kg) or its vehicle intraperitoneally 1 hour after surgery and repeat treatment every 24 hours. To evaluate survival, a group of animals was monitored every 24 hours for 120 hours. Two other animals were sacrificed 4 or 18 hours after surgical procedures; lung and liver samples were collected for biomolecular and histopathologic analysis. The expression of p-JNK, p-ERK, TNF-α, HMGB-1, NF-κB, Ras, Rho, Caspase 3, Bcl-2, and Bax was evaluated in lung and liver samples; SP600125 improved survival, reduced CLP induced activation of JNK, NF-κB, TNF-α, and HMGB-1, inhibited proapoptotic pathway, preserved Bcl-2 expression, and reduced histologic damage in both lung and liver of septic mice. SP600125 protects against CLP induced sepsis by blocking JNK signalling; therefore, it can be considered a therapeutic approach in human sepsis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6a/fd/PMC4385695.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3390110", "abstract": "Hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide-gated nonselective (HCN) channels modulate both membrane potential and resistance and play a significant role in synaptic plasticity. We compared the influence of HCN channels on long-term depression (LTD) at the medial perforant path-granule cell synapse in early postnatal (P9–15) and adult (P30–60) rats. LTD was elicited in P9–15 slices using low-frequency stimulation (LFS, 900 pulses, 1 Hz; 80 ± 4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dc/48/PMC3390110.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4834142", "abstract": "Background: Keeping in mind the commercial application of polygalacturonase (PG) in juice and beverages industry, bacterial strains were isolated from rotten fruits and vegetables to screen for competent producers of PG. Objectives: In this study, the plate method was used for preliminary screening of polygalacturonase-producing bacteria, while the Dinitrosalicylic Acid (DNS) method was used for quantifications of PG. Materials and Methods: Biochemically-identified polygalacturonase-producing Bacillus and Pseudomonas species were further characterized by molecular markers. The genetic diversity among these selected strains was analyzed by investigating microsatellite distribution in their genome. Out of 110 strains, 17 competent strains of Bacillus and eight strains of Pseudomonas were selected, identified and confirmed biochemically. Selected strains were characterized by 16S rRNA sequencing and data was submitted to the national center for biotechnology information (NCBI) website for accession numbers. Results: Among the Bacillus, Bacillus vallismortis (JQ990307) isolated from mango was the most competent producer of PG; producing up to 4.4 U/µL. Amongst Pseudomonas, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (JQ990314) isolated from oranges was the most competent PG producer equivalent to B. vallismortis (JQ990307). To determine genetic diversity of different strains of Pseudomonas and Bacillus varying in PG production, fingerprinting was done on the basis of Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) or microsatellites. The data was analyzed and a phylogenetic tree was constructed using the Minitab 3 software for comparison of bacterial isolates producing different concentrations of PG. Fingerprinting showed that presence or absence of certain microsatellites correlated with the ability of PG production. Conclusions: Bacteria from biological waste were competent producers of PG and must be used on an industrial scale to cope with the demand of PG in the food industry.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/f6/jjm-09-01-28594.PMC4834142.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC385253", "abstract": "Background Different generic quality of life instruments such as the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) and the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) have revealed conflicting results in patients with chronic lower limb ischaemia in psychometric attributes in short-term evaluations. The aim of this study was to compare the NHP and the SF-36 regarding internal consistency reliability, validity, responsiveness and suitability as outcome measures in patients with lower limb ischaemia in a longitudinal perspective. Methods 48 patients with intermittent claudication and 42 with critical ischaemia were included. Assessment was made before and one year after revascularization using comparable domains of the NHP and the SF-36 questionnaires. Results The SF-36 was less skewed and more homogeneous than the NHP. There was an average convergent validity in three of the five comparable domains one year postoperatively. The SF-36 showed a higher internal consistency except for social functioning one-year postoperatively and was more responsive in detecting changes over time in patients with intermittent claudication. The NHP was more sensitive in discriminating among levels of ischaemia regarding pain and more able to detect changes in the critical ischaemia group. Conclusion Both SF-36 and NHP have acceptable degrees of reliability for group-level comparisons, convergent and construct validity one year postoperatively. Nevertheless, the SF-36 has superior psychometric properties and was more suitable in patients with intermittent claudication. The NHP however, discriminated better among severity of ischaemia and was more responsive in patients with critical ischaemia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ee/38/PMC385253.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4168851", "abstract": "For more than half a century, the different properties of dexrazoxane have captured the attention of scientists and clinicians. Presently, dexrazoxane is licensed in many parts of the world for two different indications: prevention of cardiotoxicity from anthracycline-based chemotherapy, and prevention of tissue injuries after extravasation of anthracyclines. This article reviews the historical, preclinical, and clinical background for the use of dexrazoxane for these indications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/e4/cmar-6-357.PMC4168851.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4737049", "abstract": "Circulating levels of TNF-α and the adhesion molecules L-Selectin and VCAM-1 as well as their expression in the primary tumors of patients with benign thyroid diseases and papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) have been determined in this study. The serum levels of TNF-α, L-Selectin, and VCAM-1 were significantly higher in patients with both benign thyroid diseases and PTC as compared to the healthy individuals. However, the levels of only TNF-α and L-Selectin, and not VCAM-1, were significantly higher in patients with PTC in comparison to those observed in patients with benign thyroid diseases. Further the expression of TNF-α and L-Selectin was also significantly higher in the primary tumors of PTC patients, relative to the benign thyroid diseases. The expression of L-Selectin and VCAM-1 significantly correlated with aggressive tumor behavior. In PTC patients, the circulating TNF-α levels significantly positively correlated with the levels of L-Selectin, while TNF-α immunoreactivity was significantly associated with VCAM-1 expression. Serum TNF-α was found to be a significant prognosticator for OS in PTC patients. Overall the results signify that the interaction between TNF-α and the adhesion molecules may have a role in thyroid carcinogenesis and understanding this complexity may offer potential therapeutic targets for better management of thyroid cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/b0/PMC4737049.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3806668", "abstract": "Background Cases of cataract surgery without penetrating keratoplasty in patients with Peters’ anomaly are very rare. We report a case of Peters’ anomaly type 2 with tilted lens due to synechia between the lens and iris that was treated with cataract surgery without penetrating keratoplasty. Case Presentation A 16-year-old girl had Peters’ anomaly in both eyes. Corneal opacity was severe in the left eye due to high-grade dysgenesis of the anterior segment. In the right eye, corneal opacity had spread from the center of the cornea to the inferotemporal side, and there was synechia between the iris and corneal endothelium from the inferonasal side to the inferotemporal side. Opacity was observed in the anterior pole of the lens, and there was synechia between the anterior iris and the lens. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) revealed that the lens was tilted because of synechia. The tilted lens induced astigmatism, which reduced visual acuity to 20/250, in conjunction with a cataract. Cataract surgery was performed; the synechia between the lens capsule and the iris was severed, an intraocular lens was inserted, and the tilt was repaired. UBM was used postoperatively to confirm that the lens capsule synechia had been corrected and that the intraocular lens was not tilted. As a result, visual acuity improved to 20/100; glaucoma and expansion of corneal opacity were not observed. Conclusions Severing of the synechia between the cataract and iris, during cataract surgery, in a patient with Peters’ anomaly type 2 resulted in favorable postoperative visual acuity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2a/11/cop-0004-0134.PMC3806668.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4722996", "abstract": "It is well known that gastrectomy with curative intent is the best way to improve outcomes of patients with remnant gastric cancer. Recently,several investigators reported their experiences with laparoscopic gastrectomy of remnant gastric cancer. We report the case of an 83-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with remnant gastric cancer with obstruction. She underwent an entirely laparoscopic distal gastrectomy with colectomy because of direct invasion of the transverse colon. The operation time was 200 minutes. There were no postoperative complications. The pathologic stage was T4b (transverse colon) N0M0. Our experience suggests that laparoscopic surgerycould be an effective method to improve the surgical outcomes of remnant gastric cancer patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/34/22/jgc-15-286.PMC4722996.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3990375", "abstract": "Introduction: Prostate cancer is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in human pathology. In recent years there has been an increase in the number of new cases. Material and methods: In this article, we want to show the number of patients diagnosed and treated due to prostate cancer in the Cantonal Hospital Bihac, Bosnia and Herzegovina, over a two year period. After examining the medical records, we selected 70 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. Average age was 70.9 years (51-91 years). The total PSA ranged from 1.6 to 3332 ng/ml. For each patient is determined the PSA ratio f/t PSA, with an average value of 0.13 (0.02 to 0.627). Results: From the data analysis, we concluded that nearly half of the patients (30 patients), came to the urology clinic with advanced disease. The stage of the disease is well correlated with PSA value. Conclusion: The PSA can be considered as a reliable marker in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. Regardless of the current controversy on the issue of screening on prostate cancer using the PSA analysis, we believe that the use of this simple test in selected populations is justified for the purpose of early disease detection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f4/e8/MSM-26-59.PMC3990375.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3197076", "abstract": " Objective. Although a large debate exists regarding the need for reflux prevention in ileal orthotopic neobladders, it is our policy to continue performing nonrefluxing ureteroileal anastomoses for our patients. An ideal uretero-ileal anastomosis must be simple, nonrefluxing, as well as non-obstructive. Here, we present a new antireflux mechanism for orthotopic ileal neobladders. Methods. 12 radical cystectomy patients for muscle invasive bladder cancer were candidates for orthotopic urinary diversion and underwent a non-refluxing uretero-ileal anastomosis using the flat-segment technique with a follow up of 6 to 18 months. Results. Preliminary results after the short-term followup showed that the success rate in reflux prevention was 92", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/42/PMC3197076.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5057008", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the long-term clinical effectiveness and safety of corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) in progressive keratoconus compared with untreated contralateral eyes. Methods In this retrospective study, nine eyes of nine patients with progressive keratoconus who received CXL (treatment group) and nine untreated contralateral eyes with keratoconus (control group) were included. All patients were followed for at least 5 years and assessed with best-corrected visual acuity, maximum keratometry, mean keratometry, corneal astigmatism, and corneal thickness. Clinical data were collected preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months, postoperatively. Results Mean best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly from 0.58 ± 0.37 logarithm of minimum angle of resolution preoperatively to 0.39 ± 0.29 logarithm of minimum angle of resolution at 5 years after corneal CXL (p = 0.012). There was significant flattening of the maximum keratometry and mean keratometry from preoperative values of 63.39 ± 10.89 and 50.87 ± 6.27 diopter (D) to postoperative values of 60.89 ± 11.29 and 49.54 ± 7.23 D, respectively (p = 0.038, 0.021). Corneal astigmatism decreased significantly from 7.20 ± 1.83 D preoperatively to 5.41 ± 1.79 D postoperatively (p = 0.021). The thinnest corneal thickness decreased from 434.00 ± 54.13 to 365.78 ± 71.58 µm during 1 month after treatment, then increased to 402.67 ± 52.55 µm at 5 years, which showed a statistically significant decrease compared to the baseline (p = 0.020). In the untreated contralateral eyes, mean keratometry increased significantly at 2 years compared with the baseline (p = 0.043). Conclusions CXL seems to be an effective and safe treatment for halting the progression of keratoconus over a long-term follow-up period of up to 5 years in progressive keratoconus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/06/kjo-30-326.PMC5057008.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4532277", "abstract": "The darkling beetle, Sternoplax souvorowiana (Reitter) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), is flightless and lives in the Guerbantonggut desert in northwestern China. Its special eggshell structure, day-active habit, large body size, short life cycle, and ease of rearing under laboratory conditions make it an excellent model for advanced studies on desert adaptation. Determining the sex of this beetle is usually complicated by the lack of a discreet, externally visible gender-specific character. To date, dissection has been used for sex identification in this species, whereas a nondestructive means is needed for further studies of sexual dimorphism. Here, a new method based on the difference of the pigmentation pattern on the eighth tergite of each sex is described and illustrated. This method can be quickly learned, is nondestructive, is 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/61/ieu037.PMC4532277.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2278021", "abstract": "Biological processes are often performed by a group of proteins rather than by individual proteins, and proteins in a same biological group form a densely connected subgraph in a protein-protein interaction network. Therefore, finding a densely connected subgraph provides useful information to predict the function or protein complex of uncharacterized proteins in the highly connected subgraph. We have developed an efficient algorithm and program for finding cliques and near-cliques in a protein-protein interaction network. Analysis of the interaction network of yeast proteins using the algorithm demonstrates that 59", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bd/c2/PMC2278021.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4764777", "abstract": "The mechanisms of cardiac repair after myocardial infarction (MI) are complicated and not well-understood currently. It is known that exosomes are released from most cells, recognized as new candidates with important roles in intercellular and tissue-level communication. Cells can package proteins and RNA messages into exosome and secret to recipient cells, which regulate gene expression in recipient cells. The research on exosomes in cardiovascular disease is just emerging. It is well-known that exosomes from cardiomyocyte can transfect endothelial cells, stem cells, fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells to induce cellular changes. After myocardial infarction (MI), the exosomes play important roles in local and distant microcommunication. Nowadays, exosomal microRNAs transportation has been found to deliver signals to mediate cardiac repair after MI. However, the exosomes quality and quantities are variable under different pathological conditions. Therefore, we speculate that the monitoring of the quality and quantity of exosomes may serve as diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers of MI, and the study of exosomes will provide insights for the new therapeutics to cardiac remodeling after MI.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/25/b4/PMC4764777.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3291221", "abstract": "We report the median cDNA viral load of norovirus genogroup II is >100-fold higher than that of genogroup I in the fecal specimens of patients with norovirus-associated gastroenteritis. We speculate that increased cDNA viral load accounts for the higher transmissibility of genogroup II strains through the fecal-oral route.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2c/39/PMC3291221.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3885838", "abstract": " [Purpose] The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of cervical stabilization exercises on the electromyographic activity of the shoulder stabilizers in normal adults. [Subjects] In the present study, 20 normal adults were divided into an experimental group (EG, n=10) that performed cervical stabilization exercises and shoulder stabilization exercises and a control group (CG, n=10) that performed shoulder stabilization exercises. [Methods] The EG and CG performed their exercises three times per week for four weeks. The cervical stabilization exercises consisted of Craniocervical flexion exercises (CCFEs) that were performed using pressure biofeedback units (PBUs). The shoulder stabilization exercises consisted of scapula-setting exercises, wall stretching, and external rotation exercises. To examine the electromyographic activity of the upper trapezius (UT) muscle, lower trapezius (LT) muscle, and serratus anterior (SA) muscle, the electromyograms for these muscles were compared and analyzed. [Results] In comparisons within the groups, the EG showed statistically significant differences in the UT, the LT and the SA. The CG did not show any significant differences. [Conclusion] Cervical stabilization exercises and shoulder stabilization exercises are considered to be an effective intervention for the electromyographic activity of the shoulder stabilizers, the UT, LT, and SA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/01/jpts-25-1557.PMC3885838.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4944594", "abstract": "Background The aim of this study was to develop consensus statements that may help share or even establish ‘best practices’ in the surgical aspects of managing diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO) that can be applied in appropriate clinical situations pending the publication of more high-quality data. Methods We asked 14 panelists with expertise in DFO management to participate. Delphi methodology was used to develop consensus statements. First, a questionnaire elicited practices and beliefs concerning various aspects of the surgical management of DFO. Thereafter, we constructed 63 statements for analysis and, using a nine-point Likert scale, asked the panelists to indicate the extent to which they agreed or disagreed with the statements. We defined consensus as a mean score of greater than 7.0. Results The panelists reached consensus on 38 items after three rounds. Among these, seven provide guidance on initial diagnosis of DFO and selection of patients for surgical management. Another 15 statements provide guidance on specific aspects of operative management, including the timing of operations and the type of specimens to be obtained. Ten statements provide guidance on postoperative management, including wound closure and offloading, and six statements summarize the panelists’ agreement on general principles for surgical management of DFO. Conclusions Consensus statement on the perioperative management of DFO were formed with an expert panel comprised of a variety of surgical specialties. We believe these statements may serve as ‘best practice’ guidelines until properly performed studies provide more robust evidence to support or refute specific surgical management steps in DFO.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/98/DFA-7-30079.PMC4944594.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2702053", "abstract": "Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure for the treatment of hepatic tumors. While RFA is associated with relatively low morbidity, sporadic bronchobiliary fistulae due to thermal damage may occur after RFA, although the incidence is rare. We describe a patient with a bronchobiliary fistula complicated by a liver abscess that occurred after RFA. This fistula was obliterated after placement of an external drainage catheter into the liver abscess for eight weeks.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/6f/kjr-10-411.PMC2702053.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2684995", "abstract": "Here, we report a case of scalp pseudoaneurysm which was treated by direct puncture embolization using n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate. The patient had a history of blunt trauma in the previous two months. Ultrasound-guided manual compression was initially attempted, but the results were unsatisfactory. Direct puncture embolization was then performed, and the pseudoaneurysm was completely obliterated. Non-surgical treatment options for pseudoaneurysm are briefly discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/12/kjr-6-37.PMC2684995.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3987959", "abstract": "Over the last two decades, the amount of evidence corroborating an association between dental plaque bacteria and coronary diseases that develop as a result of atherosclerosis has increased. These findings have brought a new aspect to the etiology of the disease. There are several mechanisms by which dental plaque bacteria may initiate or worsen atherosclerotic processes: activation of innate immunity, bacteremia related to dental treatment, and direct involvement of mediators activated by dental plaque and involvement of cytokines and heat shock proteins from dental plaque bacteria. There are common predisposing factors which influence both periodontitis and atherosclerosis. Both diseases can be initiated in early childhood, although the first symptoms may not appear until adulthood. The formation of lipid stripes has been reported in 10-year-old children and the increased prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents is a risk factor contributing to lipid stripes development. Endothelium damage caused by the formation of lipid stripes in early childhood may lead to bacteria penetrating into blood circulation after oral cavity procedures for children as well as for patients with aggressive and chronic periodontitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b7/94/PMC3987959.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4293796", "abstract": " BACKGROUND  Dyspepsia is a common symptom with an extensive differential diagnosis and a heterogeneous pathophysiology. Many studies have reported that dyspeptic symptoms are associated with ingestion of some foods. Current treatments for functional dyspepsia have generally ignored the potential role of diet.  METHODS  This cross-sectional study was done at the Gastroenterology Department of Shahid Sadoughi Hospital, Yazd, Iran from September 2008 to March 2009. Based on the diagnostic criteria for functional dyspepsia symptoms presented to outpatient gastroenterology clinics, adult patients were invited to participate in this study. Upper GI endoscopy was performed in all the patients so as to rule out any gross pathology. The patients were asked about a list of nutrients including 114 foods which is commonly used in our area. Then, the effects of specific foods were identified on the relief or aggravation of the symptoms with four degrees: low, medium, high, and very high.  RESULTS  Of 384 patients, 152 were men and 231 were women with a mean ± SD age of 39.16±14 years (range: 13-80 years). The foods that caused the highest aggravation of symptoms were sausage and bolognas, pickles vinegar, soft drinks, grain, tea, salt, pizza, watermelon, red pepper, and macaroni. However, the most frequent foods that led to the alleviation of symptoms were apples, rice, rock candy, bread, caraway seed, dates, honey, yogurt, quince, and walnut.   CONCLUSION   This study shows that some foods, especially spicy, pickled, and high-fat foods, strongly induced dyspepsia and aggravated the symptoms in dyspeptic patients. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/4a/MEJDD-7-19.PMC4293796.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5245937", "abstract": "Introduction: Pseudoaneurysm is a rare complication reported after any surgery such as ORIF of fracture, plate removal, ankle or knee arthroscopy or arthroplasty. To our knowledge, pseudoaneurysms of the posterior tibial artery after tibial plate removal are a rare phenomenon. We report a case of a 18-year-old male patient who had pseudoaneurysm of posterior tibial artery following plate removal. Case Presentation: A 18-year-old male was referred to our outpatient clinic because of mass-like lesion in his left calf. He had a history of car accident and left isolated tibia fracture 30 months ago that was treated by open reduction and internal fixation with DCP plate. After union in radiograph, the plate was removed 7 months ago on the patient request. Four weeks after surgery, the patient had complaints of pain and swelling. Finally, pseudoaneurysm was diagnosed and was repaired in a common surgery with a vascular surgeon without any difficulty. Conclusion: Pseudoaneurysms of the posterior tibial artery after tibial plate removal are an extremely rare phenomenon. This complication in most cases follows penetrating injuries but it has been reported following blunt trauma. In fact, in most of these patients the diagnosis was initially missed because the large hematoma concealed the underlying pseudoaneurysm and its pulsations. Thus, a delay in the diagnosis is common in this phenomenon. Hence, the surgeon should be suspicious to this complication following plate removal when he/she is doubtful about the sign and symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/13/JOCR-6-46.PMC5245937.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649158", "abstract": "Giant inguinal herniae pose a surgical challenge, though not uncommon in the developing world they are a rare presentation in the UK. We present a patient with cardiac disease who presented with a giant inguino-scrotal hernia complicated by a bleeding scrotal ulcer. We describe his medical management and the surgical repair of the hernia and refashioning of his scrotum.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/52/0e/PMC3649158.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4089611", "abstract": "Although current immunosuppression is highly effective in avoiding acute rejection, it is associated with nephrotoxicity, cardiovascular morbidity, infection, and cancer. Thus, new drugs dealing with new mechanisms, as well as minimizing comorbidities, are warranted in renal transplantation. Few novel drugs are currently under investigation in Phase I, II, or III clinical trials. Belatacept is a humanized antibody that inhibits T-cell co-stimulation and has shown encouraging results in Phase II and III trials. Moreover, two new small molecules are under clinical development: AEB071 or sotrastaurin (a protein kinase C inhibitor) and CP-690550 or tasocitinib (a Janus kinase inhibitor). Refinement in selecting the best combinations for the new and current immunosuppressive agents is probably the main challenge for the next few years.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/94/6e/PMC4089611.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5315042", "abstract": "Facial angiofibromas are benign tumors presenting as firm, dome-shaped, flesh-colored to pink papules, typically on the nose and adjoining central face. Clinically and dermoscopically they can mimic melanocytic nevi or basal cell carcinomas (BCC). Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a noninvasive imaging tool that is useful in diagnosing melanocytic and non-melanocytic facial lesions. To date no studies have described the RCM features of facial angiofibromas. Herein, we present two cases of facial angiofibromas that were imaged with RCM and revealed tumor island-like structures that mimicked BCC, leading to skin biopsy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/f1/PMC5315042.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2948270", "abstract": "Applications of next-generation nucleic acid sequencing technologies will lead to the development of precision diagnostics that will, in turn, be a major technology enabler of precision medicine. Terabyte-scale, multidimensional data sets derived using these technologies will be used to reverse engineer the specific disease networks that underlie individual patients’ conditions. Modeling and simulation of these networks in the presence of virtual drugs, and combinations of drugs, will identify the most efficacious therapy for precision medicine and customized care. In coming years the practice of medicine will routinely employ network biology analytics supported by high-performance supercomputing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ed/e7/1757-594X-0001-0000000073.PMC2948270.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4421145", "abstract": "The most important challenge in peritoneal dialysis (PD) is long-term preservation of peritoneal membrane structure and function. Introduction of dialysis fluids into the peritoneal cavity induces changes. These changes are related to duration of dialysis, occurrence of peritonitis and components of the dialysis solution. Bioincompatibility is considered to be the major cause of the development of morphological changes of the peritoneal membrane. pH neutral PD fluids that are low in glucose degradation products (GDP) seem to better preserve the peritoneal membrane and have less systemic effects than the conventional ones. However, the long-term effects are not clear. An overview of the effects of conventional PD fluids and glucose-based PD fluids with neutral pH in ex vivo and in vivo animal and clinical studies is presented.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/1e/sfn124.PMC4421145.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC421745", "abstract": "Background Survey data are increasingly abundant from many international projects and national statistics. They are generally comprehensive and cover local, regional as well as national levels census in many domains including health, demography, human development, and economy. These surveys result in several hundred indicators. Geographical analysis of such large amount of data is often a difficult task and searching for patterns is particularly a difficult challenge. Geovisualization research is increasingly dealing with the exploration of patterns and relationships in such large datasets for understanding underlying geographical processes. One of the attempts has been to use Artificial Neural Networks as a technology especially useful in situations where the numbers are vast and the relationships are often unclear or even hidden. Results We investigate ways to integrate computational analysis based on a Self-Organizing Map neural network, with visual representations of derived structures and patterns in a framework for exploratory visualization to support visual data mining and knowledge discovery. The framework suggests ways to explore the general structure of the dataset in its multidimensional space in order to provide clues for further exploration of correlations and relationships. Conclusion In this paper, the proposed framework is used to explore a demographic and health survey data. Several graphical representations (information spaces) are used to depict the general structure and clustering of the data and get insight about the relationships among the different variables. Detail exploration of correlations and relationships among the attributes is provided. Results of the analysis are also presented in maps and other graphics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/2f/PMC421745.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2693808", "abstract": "Permanent neonatal diabetes (PND) is a rare form of diabetes characterized by insulin-requiring hyperglycemia diagnosed within the first three months of life. In most cases, the causes are not known. Recently, mutations in the KCNJ11 gene encoding the Kir6.2 subunit of the ATP-sensitive K+ channel have been described in patients with PND. We report the first two Korean cases with PND due to a lysineto- arginine substitution at position 170 (K179R) and a valine-to-methionine substitution at position 59 (V59M) mutations of KCNJ11 encoding Kir6.2, respectively. After several years of insulin therapy, these patients were managed by oral glibenclamide therapy at a daily dose of 0.8-0.9 mg/kg. Their basal c-peptide levels increased after one week of glibenclamide therapy, and one month later, the insulin and c-peptide levels were in the normal ranges without any episodes of hyper- or hypoglycemia. These cases demonstrate that oral sulfonylurea may be the treatment of choice in PND patients with KCNJ11 mutations even at a young age.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/b3/jkms-22-616.PMC2693808.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3921830", "abstract": "Wilms’ tumor is the most common type of malignant kidney tumor in children. Due to the fact that this type of cancer is so rare in adults, however, there is a significant lack of treatment strategies in this age group. Moreover, the treatment of adults is often based on protocols used in children. The present report describes a case of a 25–year–old male with nephroblastoma stage IV, who had a primary surgery and underwent chemotherapy with CDVC (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vepesid, carboplatin). During the systemic treatment, the authors observed progression of disease and serious side effects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/05/98/CEJU-66-00217.PMC3921830.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4643999", "abstract": "BACKGROUND: Rising costs present a major threat to the sustainability of health care delivery. Resource stewardship is increasingly becoming an expected competency of physicians. The Choosing Wisely framework was used to introduce resource stewardship at a national educational retreat for infectious disease and microbiology residents. METHODS: During the 2014 Annual Canadian Infectious Disease and Microbiology Resident Retreat in Toronto, Ontario, infectious disease (n=50) and microbiology (n=17) residents representing 11 Canadian universities from six provinces, were invited to participate in a modified Delphi panel. Participants were asked, in advance of the retreat, to submit up to five practices that infectious disease and microbiology specialists should not routinely perform due to lack of proven benefit(s) and/or potential harm to patients. Submissions were discussed in small and large group forums using an iterative approach involving electronic polling until consensus was reached for five practices. A finalized list was created for both educational purposes and for residents to consider enacting; however, it was not intended to replace formal society-endorsed statements. A follow-up survey at two-months was conducted. RESULTS: Consensus was reached by the residents regarding five low-value practices within the purview of infectious diseases and microbiology physicians. After the retreat, 20 participants (32", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/53/14/cjidmm-26-231.PMC4643999.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3658806", "abstract": " Aims. This study's aim was to test the effects of self-transcendence on depression among cognitively intact nursing home patients. Background. Depression is considered the most frequent mental disorder among the elderly population. Specifically, the depression rate among nursing home patients is three to four times higher than that among community-dwelling elderly. Therefore, finding new and alternative ways to prevent and decrease depression is of great importance for nursing home patients' well-being. Self-transcendence is related to spiritual as well as nonspiritual factors, and it is described as a correlate and resource for well-being among vulnerable populations and at the end of life. Methods. A two-factor construct of the self-transcendence scale (interpersonal and intrapersonal) and the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) was applied. A sample of 202 cognitively intact nursing home patients in central Norway was selected to respond to the questionnaires in 2008/2009. Results. A hypothesized SEM model demonstrated significant direct relationships and total effects of self-transcendence on depression. Conclusion and Implication for Practice. Facilitating patients' self-transcendence, both interpersonally and intrapersonally, might decrease depression among cognitively intact nursing home patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/48/64/PMC3658806.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3060398", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of cataract surgery in highly myopic Korean subjects. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 694 eyes of 694 patients who underwent cataract surgery. The case group included 347 eyes of 347 patients whose axial lengths (AXL) were ≥26.00 mm, and the control group included 347 eyes of 347 patients with AXL between 22.00 and 25.99 mm. Cataract density was determined preoperatively using the Pentacam Scheimpflug imaging system. We compared age at operation, cataract type, coexisting disease, visual prognosis, and complications. Results The mean age at the time of the operation was 59.60 ± 12.28 years in the case group and 67.47 ± 11.36 years in the control group. The case group had a larger proportion of nuclear cataracts and posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSC), 40.63", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/3f/kjo-25-84.PMC3060398.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3046004", "abstract": "Bow hunter’s stroke (BHS) is a cerebrovascular disease caused by occlusion of the vertebral artery (VA) on head rotation. BHS is generally associated with hemodynamic changes, often leading to vertebrobasilar insufficiency symptoms, such as vertigo and faintness. Although artery-to-artery embolism has also been proposed as an underlying mechanism, it remains controversial. This report documents a case of BHS without hemodynamic changes. We describe a 26-year-old male patient who had VA occlusion on head rotation and repetitive infarction of thalami. He had an anomalous bypass of the VA and therefore no symptomatic hemodynamic changes. Thus, non-hemodynamic BHS should be considered in juvenile patients with vertebrobasilar stroke.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/37/bd/PMC3046004.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3871497", "abstract": "The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) consensus statement (CS) provides guidelines for patient selection for accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) following breast conserving surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate recurrence rates based on ASTRO CS groupings. A single institution review of 238 early stage breast cancer patients treated with balloon-based APBI via balloon based brachytherapy demonstrated a 4-year actuarial ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) rate of 5.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/fb/PMC3871497.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4067724", "abstract": "Background Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an autosomal dominantly inherited syndrome characterized by the development of numerous polyps in the colon and rectum. If left untreated, the affected patients inevitably develop colon cancer by the age of 40 years. A resection of the colon (colectomy) or of the colon and rectum (proctocolectomy) is needed to minimize the risk of cancer. Case Presentation We report a case of FAP through three generations of a single family, in which the grandmother and granddaughter underwent total colectomy with ileoanal anastomosis and did not develop colon cancer, while the son underwent subtotal colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis and developed recurrent rectal cancer. Data regarding timely surgery, surveillance, and chemoprevention are discussed. Conclusion The FAP phenotype determines the type of treatment. In severe polyposis, proctocolectomy with ileoanal anastomosis seems to be the optimal method for minimizing the risk of cancer development. This case report advocates complete rectal removal, especially in cases of poor patient compliance with colonoscopic surveillance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/4a/cro-0007-0349.PMC4067724.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4307104", "abstract": "Background Primary Gastric Lymphoma (PGL) is an uncommon malignancy with various histological subtypes and treatment outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential prognostic factors and clinicopathological characteristics of Iranian patients with PGL. Methods The clinicopathological characteristics of 60 patients with PGL were retrospectively reviewed from 2001 to 2012. The patients underwent various combinations of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. We evaluated multiple potential prognostic factors and their associations with patient survival rate. Results According to the results, Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) and Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT) were two predominant histological subtypes. The majority of cases were diagnosed with stage I tumor in the distal part of the stomach. The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2a/2f/IJCP-07-219.PMC4307104.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1933221", "abstract": "We describe FRalanyzer (Fold Recognition alignment analyzer), a new web tool to visually inspect sequence–structure alignments in order to predict functionally important residues in a query sequence of unknown function. This tool is aimed at helping to infer functional relationships between a query sequence and a template structure, and is particularly useful in analyzing fold recognition (FR) results. Because similar folds do not necessarily share the same function, it is not always straightforward to infer a function from an FR result alone. Manual inspection of the FR sequence-structure alignment is often required in order to search for conservation of functionally important residues. FRalanyzer automates parts of this time-consuming process. FRalanyzer takes as input a sequence–structure alignment, automatically searches annotated databases, displays functionally significant residues and highlights the functionally important positions that are identical in the alignment. FRalanyzer can also be used with sequence-structure alignments obtained by other methods, and with structure–structure alignments obtained from structural comparison of newly determined 3D-structures of unknown function. Fralanyzer is available at http://fralanyzer.cse.buffalo.edu/.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dc/ab/gkm367.PMC1933221.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3363316", "abstract": "We report the case of a patient with an aggressive retinal astrocytoma accompanied with macular edema and neovascular vessels, who was initially treated with intravitreal bevacizumab injections. A 24-year-old male presented to our clinic complaining of visual disturbance in his right eye. At 8 years of age, he had been diagnosed as having tuberous sclerosis complex. Fundus examination demonstrated a retinal tumor accompanied with marked neovascular vessels on the surface, retinal hemorrhage, and macular edema. After six monthly intravitreal bevacizumab injections, fundus examination demonstrated marked regression of the macular edema and neovascular vessels. Two months later, a vitreous hemorrhage developed which necessitated pars plana vitrectomy. After additional intravitreal bevacizumab injection for preventing intraoperative bleeding, vitrectomy with endophotocoagulation for the tumor was performed. The vitreous sample was obtained during vitrectomy, and we measured the vascular endothelial growth factor concentration by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The surgically removed epiretinal neovascular membrane and biopsied retinal tumor expressed vascular endothelial growth factor, although several intravitreal bevacizumab injections led to a vitreous vascular endothelial growth factor concentration of undetectable levels. The clinical course and immunohistochemical analyses indicate that intravitreal bevacizumab monotherapy may have been insufficient to treat the aggressive retinal astrocytoma with macular edema and that laser photocoagulation or photodynamic therapy for the tumor should be considered following intravitreal bevacizumab injection in such cases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/61/PMC3363316.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3291887", "abstract": "Spinal cord infarctions are rare, especially at the cervical level and in the posterior spinal artery territory. Moreover, this diagnosis is difficult to establish as the clinical picture varies. Even if sensory patterns appear as cardinal signs, their distribution can be very variable. We report a rare case of posterior cervical cord infarction revealed by an unusual pure sensory clinical picture.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/e4/crn-0004-0023.PMC3291887.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4524954", "abstract": "Objective The purpose of this study was to assess rotational patterns of dentofacial structures according to different vertical skeletal patterns by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and analyze their influence on menton deviation in skeletal Class III deformity with mandibular asymmetry. Methods The control group consisted of 30 young adults (15 men, 15 women) without any severe skeletal deformity. The asymmetry group included 55 adults (28 men, 27 women) with skeletal Class III deformity and at least 3-mm menton deviation from the midsagittal plane; it was divided into the hyperdivergent and hypodivergent subgroups using a mandibular plane angle cutoff of 35°. Fourteen rotational variables of the dental arches and mandible were measured and compared among the groups. Correlations between menton deviation and the other variables were evaluated. Results The asymmetry group showed significantly larger measurements of roll and yaw in the mandible than the control group. The hypodivergent subgroup showed significant differences in maxillary posterior measurements of yaw (p < 0.01) and maxillary anterior shift (p < 0.05) compared with the hyperdivergent subgroup. All the mandibular measurements had significant correlations with menton deviation (p < 0.01). Most measurements of roll were positively correlated with one another (p < 0.01). Measurements of yaw and roll in the posterior regions were also positively correlated (p < 0.05). Conclusions Menton deviation in skeletal Class III deformity with mandibular asymmetry is influenced by rotation of mandibular posterior dentofacial structures. The rotational patterns vary slightly according to the vertical skeletal pattern.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f4/db/kjod-45-153.PMC4524954.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2816298", "abstract": "While ica gene of Staphylococcus epidermidis is known to undergo phase variation by insertion of IS256, the phenomenon in Staphylococcus aureus has not been evaluated. Six biofilm-positive strains were tested for the presence of biofilm-negative phase-variant strains by Congo red agar test. For potential phase-variant strains, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis was done to exclude the possibility of contamination. To investigate the mechanism of the biofilm-negative phase variation, PCR for each ica genes were done. Changes of ica genes detected by PCR were confirmed by southern hybridization, and their nucleotides were analyzed by DNA sequencing. Influence of ica genes and biofilm formation on capacity for adherence to biomedical material was evaluated by comparing the ability of adhering to polyurethane surface among a biofilm-negative phase-variant strain and its parent strain. A biofilm-negative phase-variant S. aureus strain was detected from 6 strains tested. icaC gene of the phase-variant strain was found to be inactivated by insertion of additional gene segment, IS256. The biofilm-negative phase-variant strain showed lower adhering capacity to polyurethane than its parent strain. This study shows that phase variation of ica gene occurs in S. aureus by insertion of IS256 also, and this biofilm-negative phase variation reduces adhering capacity of the bacteria. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/4f/jkms-19-779.PMC2816298.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2685275", "abstract": "After the increasing rate of deaths observed during the 1980s due to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the health-related quality of life and life expectancy of persons with hemophilia have improved, mainly due to the progresses of replacement therapy and antiviral drugs and to the improvement of the global comprehensive care provided by specialized centers. As a consequence, an increasing number of hemophiliacs have reached an older age and nowadays physicians in hemophilia centers find that they must handle age-related clinical problems never previously observed in this population. The management of elderly persons with congenital hemophilia is discussed in the first part of this review. The second part describes the general aspects of acquired hemophilia due to anti-factor VIII autoantibodies, focusing on the clinical management of elderly patients, one of the groups most frequently affected by this acquired bleeding disorder.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9c/ee/PMC2685275.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4123616", "abstract": " Objective. To evaluate the indication and the clinical value of laparoscopic adrenalectomy of different types of adrenal tumor. Methods. From 2009 to 2014, a total of 110 patients were diagnosed with adrenal benign tumor by CT scan and we performed laparoscopic adrenalectomy. The laparoscopic approach has been the procedure of choice for surgery of benign adrenal tumors, and the upper limit of tumor size was thought to be 6 cm. Results. 109 of 110 cases were successful; only one was converted to open surgery due to bleeding. The average operating time and intraoperative blood loss of pheochromocytoma were significantly more than the benign tumors (P < 0.05). After 3 months of follow-up, the preoperative symptoms were relieved and there was no recurrence. Conclusions. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy has the advantages of minimal invasion, less blood loss, fewer complications, quicker recovery, and shorter hospital stay. The full preparation before operation can decrease the average operating time and intraoperative blood loss of pheochromocytomas. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy should be considered as the first choice treatment for the resection of adrenal benign tumor.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/37/c9/PMC4123616.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4157488", "abstract": "When the juvenile worms of the genus Paragonimus migrate and cause defects on the surface of the visceral pleura, pneumothorax can develop. A 34-year-old woman was admitted for pneumothorax with which was developed after she ate raw fish and crab. A 21-year-old male soldier presented with recurrent bilateral pneumothorax without eosinophilia, caused after drinking stream water frequently. In both patients, paragonimiasis was suspected from the computed tomography scan and confirmed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test of the pleural fluid. When pneumothorax develops in patients who have ingested raw fresh-water crab or stream water, paragonimiasis should always be considered in the differential diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/a2/kjtcvs-47-310.PMC4157488.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4855265", "abstract": "The surface of mammalian cells offers an interface between the cell interior and its surrounding milieu. As part of the innate immune system, macrophages have cell surface features optimised for probing and sampling as they patrol our tissues for pathogens, debris or dead cells. Their highly dynamic and constantly moving cell surface has extensions such as lamellipodia, filopodia and dorsal ruffles that help detect pathogens. Dorsal ruffles give rise to macropinosomes for rapid, high volume non-selective fluid sampling, receptor internalisation and plasma membrane turnover. Ruffles can also generate phagocytic cups for the receptor-mediated uptake of pathogens or particles. The membrane lipids, actin cytoskeleton, receptors and signalling proteins that constitute these cell surface domains are discussed. Although the cell surface is designed to counteract pathogens, many bacteria, viruses and other pathogens have evolved to circumvent or hijack these cell structures and their underlying machinery for entry and survival. Nevertheless, these features offer important potential for developing vaccines, drugs and preventative measures to help fight infection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7b/60/cti201615a.PMC4855265.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5392002", "abstract": "The aim of present study is to evaluate and compare speech intelligibility in hearing impaired children with cochlear implants (CI) and hearing aid (HA) users and children with normal hearing (NH). The sample consisted of 45 Persian-speaking children aged 3 to 5-years-old. They were divided into three groups, and each group had 15, children, children with CI and children using hearing aids in Hamadan. Participants was evaluated by the test of speech intelligibility level. Results of ANOVA on speech intelligibility test showed that NH children had significantly better reading performance than hearing impaired children with CI and HA. Post-hoc analysis, using Scheffe test, indicated that the mean score of speech intelligibility of normal children was higher than the HA and CI groups; but the difference was not significant between mean of speech intelligibility in children with hearing loss that use cochlear implant and those using HA. It is clear that even with remarkabkle advances in HA technology, many hearing impaired children continue to find speech production a challenging problem. Given that speech intelligibility is a key element in proper communication and social interaction, consequently, educational and rehabilitation programs are essential to improve speech intelligibility of children with hearing loss.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d7/e8/jao-21-57.PMC5392002.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3321947", "abstract": "Novel nontoxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae was isolated from a domestic cat with severe otitis. Contact investigation and carrier study of human and animal contacts yielded 3 additional, identical isolates from cats, although no evidence of zoonotic transmission was identified. Molecular methods distinguished the feline isolates from known C. diphtheriae.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/77/99/PMC3321947.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4516311", "abstract": "Vibrational sum frequency generation (SFG) has become a very promising technique for the study of proteins at interfaces, and it has been applied to important systems such as anti-microbial peptides, ion channel proteins, and human islet amyloid polypeptide. Moreover, so-called “chiral” SFG techniques, which rely on polarization combinations that generate strong signals primarily for chiral molecules, have proven to be particularly discriminatory of protein secondary structure. In this work, we present a theoretical strategy for calculating protein amide I SFG spectra by combining line-shape theory with molecular dynamics simulations. We then apply this method to three model peptides, demonstrating the existence of a significant chiral SFG signal for peptides with chiral centers, and providing a framework for interpreting the results on the basis of the dependence of the SFG signal on the peptide orientation. We also examine the importance of dynamical and coupling effects. Finally, we suggest a simple method for determining a chromophore’s orientation relative to the surface using ratios of experimental heterodyne-detected signals with different polarizations, and test this method using theoretical spectra.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/fd/PMC4516311.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3216265", "abstract": " In vivo real-time visualization of the process of angiogenesis in secondary tumors in the same living animals presents a major challenge in metastasis research. We developed a technique for intravital imaging of colorectal liver metastasis development in live mice using two-photon laser scanning microscopy (TPLSM). We also developed time-series TPLSM in which intravital TPLSM procedures were performed several times over periods of days to months. Red fluorescent protein-expressing colorectal cancer cells were inoculated into the spleens of green fluorescent protein-expressing mice. First- and second-round intravital TPLSM allowed visualization of viable cancer cells (red) in hepatic sinusoids or the space of Disse. Third-round intravital TPLSM demonstrated liver metastatic colonies consisting of viable cancer cells and surrounding stroma with tumor vessels (green). In vivo time-course imaging of tumor angiogenesis in the same living mice using time-series TPLSM could be an ideal tool for antiangiogenic drug evaluation, reducing the effects of interindividual variation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e5/8d/PMC3216265.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3010060", "abstract": "Voltage-gated ion channels underlie electrical activity of neurons and are dynamically regulated by diverse cell signaling pathways that alter their phosphorylation state. Recent global mass spectrometric–based analyses of the mouse brain phosphoproteome have yielded a treasure trove of new data as to the extent and nature of phosphorylation of numerous ion channel principal or α subunits in mammalian brain. Here we compile and review data on 347 phosphorylation sites (261 unique) on 42 different voltage-gated ion channel α subunits that were identified in these recent studies. Researchers in the ion channel field can now begin to explore the role of these novel in vivo phosphorylation sites in the dynamic regulation of the localization, activity, and expression of brain ion channels through multisite phosphorylation of their principal subunits.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/50/JGP_201010555.PMC3010060.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3741439", "abstract": "Catecholamine secretory traits were significantly heritable, as were stress-induced blood pressure changes. Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) is the rate-limiting enzyme in catecholamine biosynthesis. In the tyrosine hyroxylase promoter, significant associations were found for urinary catecholamine excretion and for blood pressure response to stress. TH promoter haplotype 2 (TGGG) showed pleiotropy, increasing both norepinephrine excretion and blood pressure during stress. In hypertension, 2 independent case-control studies (1,266 subjects with 53", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/06/ebp-11-24.PMC3741439.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3812898", "abstract": "Combatting chronic, lifestyle-related disease has become a healthcare priority in the developed world. The role personal responsibility should play in healthcare provision has growing pertinence given the growing significance of individual lifestyle choices for health. Media reporting focussing on the ‘bad behaviour’ of individuals suffering lifestyle-related disease, and policies aimed at encouraging ‘responsibilisation’ in healthcare highlight the importance of understanding the scope of responsibility ascriptions in this context. Research into the social determinants of health and psychological mechanisms of health behaviour could undermine some commonly held and tacit assumptions about the moral responsibility of agents for the sorts of lifestyles they adopt. I use Philip Petit's conception of freedom as ‘fitness to be held responsible’ to consider the significance of some of this evidence for assessing the moral responsibility of agents. I propose that, in some cases, factors outside the agent's control may influence behaviour in such a way as to undermine her freedom along the three dimensions described by Pettit: freedom of action; a sense of identification with one's actions; and whether one's social position renders one vulnerable to pressure from more powerful others.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b4/8e/medethics-2012-100774.PMC3812898.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3059669", "abstract": "Cell types rich in mitochondria, including neurons, display a high energy demand and a need for calcium buffering. The importance of mitochondria for proper neuronal function is stressed by the occurrence of neurological defects in patients suffering from a great variety of diseases caused by mutations in mitochondrial genes. Genetic and pharmacological evidence also reveal a role of these organelles in various aspects of neuronal physiology and in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. Yet the mechanisms by which mitochondria can affect neurotransmission largely remain to be elucidated. In this review we focus on experimental data that suggest a critical function of synaptic mitochondria in the function and organization of synaptic vesicle pools, and in neurotransmitter release during intense neuronal activity. We discuss how calcium handling, ATP production and other mitochondrial mechanisms may influence synaptic vesicle pool organization and synaptic function. Given the link between synaptic mitochondrial function and neuronal communication, efforts toward better understanding mitochondrial biology may lead to novel therapeutic approaches of neurological disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and psychiatric disorders that are at least in part caused by mitochondrial deficits.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2d/cc/PMC3059669.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4639688", "abstract": "Introduction: Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a frightening and frustrating symptom for the patient as well as the physician. Prognosis is affected by multiple factors including duration of hearing loss, presence of associated vertigo and tinnitus, and co-morbidities such as hypertension and diabetes.  Materials and Methods: Forty subjects presenting to our department with features of sudden hearing loss were included in the study. Detailed otological history and examination, serial audiometric findings and course of disease were studied.  Results: Subjects presenting late (in older age), having associated vertigo, hypertension and diabetes had a significantly lower rate of recovery.  Conclusion:  Only 60–65", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/d5/PMC4639688.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5140864", "abstract": "Primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMLBCL) is one of the subtypes of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. We experienced a rare case of PMLBCL that exhibited endobronchial involvement. A 33-year-old Japanese female with the chief complaints of epigastralgia, back pain, and nausea visited a primary care hospital. Computed tomography of the chest and abdomen demonstrated a bulky mass in the left anterior mediastinum, multiple pulmonary nodules, axillary lymph node swelling, and a pancreatic tumor. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy showed a white-tinged irregularly shaped endobronchial tumor accompanied by capillary vessel dilation in the left upper lobar bronchus. Taken together, these findings resulted in a diagnosis of PMLBCL. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/a8/1349-7235-55-3147.PMC5140864.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4876085", "abstract": "Background: The pathogenesis and etiology of endometrial polyps has not been elucidated. In this study, we aimed to examine the pathogenic mechanisms of endometrial polyp development using immunohistochemistry. We evaluated the expression of galectin-3 and cyclooxgenase-2 (COX-2) during the menstrual cycle in premenopausal women with endometrial polyps or normal endometrium. Methods Thirty-one patients with endometrial polyps and 50 healthy control patients were included in this study. The levels of expression of COX-2 and galectin-3 were studied by immunohistochemistry. Results: The percentage of COX-2–positive cells and the intensity of COX-2 staining in the endometrium did not vary during the menstrual cycle either in the control group or in patients with endometrial polyps. However, expression of galectin-3 was significantly lower in endometrial polyps and during the proliferative phase of the endometrium compared with the secretory phase. Conclusions: Our data suggests that the pathogenesis of endometrial polyps does not involve expression of COX-2 or galectin-3.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/36/jptm-2016-03-08.PMC4876085.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4813402", "abstract": "Background: Mosquitoes lay eggs in a wide range of habitats with different physicochemical parameters. Ecological data, including physicochemical factors of oviposition sites, play an important role in integrated vector management. Those data help the managers to make the best decision in controlling the aquatic stages of vectors especially using source reduction. Methods: To study some physicochemical characteristics of larval habitat waters, an investigation was carried out in Qom Province, central Iran, during spring and summer 2008 and 2009. Water samples were collected during larval collection from ten localities. The chemical parameters of water samples were analyzed based on mg/l using standard methods. Water temperature (°C), turbidity (NTU), total dissolved solids (ppm), electrical conductivity (μS/cm), and acidity (pH) were measured using digital testers. Thermotolerant coliforms of water samples were analyzed based on MPN/100ml. Data were assessed by Kruskal-Wallis test and Spearman Correlation analysis. Results: In total, 371 mosquito larvae were collected including 14 species representing four genera. Some physicochemical parameters of water in Emamzadeh Esmail, Qomrood, Qom City, and Rahjerd showed significant differences among localities (P< 0.05). The physicochemical and microbial parameters did not show any significant differences among different species (P> 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the abundance of larvae and the different physicochemical and microbial parameters (P> 0.05). Conclusion: The means of EC, TDS, and phosphate of localities and species were remarkably higher than those of the previous studies. Other parameters seem to be in the range of other investigations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/8b/PMC4813402.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2913533", "abstract": " Purpose. Collet-Sicard syndrome is a very rare condition characterised by unilateral palsy of the IX–XII cranial nerves. It is distinguished from Villaret syndrome by lack of presence of sympathetic involvement. Current literature contains only two cases of Collet-Sicard syndrome due to idiopathic internal jugular vein thrombosis. Method and Results. We report the case of Collet-Sicard syndrome in a 30-year-old man who presented with delayed development of XIth nerve dysfunction, due to internal jugular vein-sigmoid sinus thrombosis. A multidisciplinary team approach was employed in the management of this patient. At three-month followup, he had significantly improved swallowing, and repeat computed tomography neck scan showed partial recanalisation of the right internal jugular vein.  Conclusion. In suspected Collet-Sicard syndrome, a focal primary lesion or metastasis to the temporal bone must be excluded, and sigmoid-jugular complex thrombosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Early recognition and treatment may result in significant functional recovery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/13/e8/PMC2913533.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2895209", "abstract": "Eosinophil-associated diseases represent a spectrum of heterogeneous disorders, where blood and cutaneous eosinophilia is the most important feature and eosinophils are the principal cause of cutaneous lesions. These diseases show some similarities in the clinical features but also many distinctive characteristics [Saurat et al., Dermatologia e malattie sessualmente trasmesse, Milano, Masson, 2000]. Wells syndrome is one of these disorders and is an uncommon recurrent inflammatory dermatosis, rarely associated to signs and symptoms of multiple organ involvement [Arch Dermatol 2006;142:1157–1161]. Hypereosinophilic syndrome, in contrast, constitutes a group of idiopathic disorders characterized by blood eosinophilia for at least 6 months, associated with single or multiple organ system dysfunction [Arch Dermatol 2006;142:1157–1161]. Clinically atypical Wells syndrome with multiorgan involvement is reported here. A correct diagnosis is difficult in this case, but clinical and histopathological features are compatible with this diagnosis. The reported condition likely represents a borderline hypereosinophilic disease, in which clinical features of both hypereosinophilic syndrome and Wells syndrome are present.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6a/88/cde0001-0044.PMC2895209.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4845447", "abstract": "Introduction: Fracture of the femoral stem following hip arthroplasty has become very rare since the developments in modern prosthetic designs. Prevention by identifying the risk factors is the best way to overcome these complex problems, as treatment is difficult. Case Report: Femoral component fracture after cemented hemiarthroplasty in a physically active 64-year-old, male patient is reported in this present article. Conclusion: The present case emphasizes the importance of preserving the joint after hip fracture and avoidance of using mono block prosthesis in younger patients. If the patient is physically active, he/she should be advised to limit her/his daily activities to moderate intensity after hemiarthroplasty surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/4b/JOCR-5-21.PMC4845447.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4733801", "abstract": "Background: Unstable pelvic fractures are complex and serious injuries. Selection of a fixation method for these fractures remains a challenging problem for orthopedic surgeons. This study aimed to compare the stability of Tile C pelvic fractures fixed with two iliosacral (IS) screws and minimally invasive adjustable plate (MIAP) combined with one IS screw. Methods: This study was a biomechanical experiment. Six embalmed specimens of the adult pelvis were used. The soft tissue was removed from the specimens, and the spines from the fourth lumbar vertebra to the proximal one-third of both femurs were retained. The pubic symphysis, bilateral sacroiliac joints and ligaments, bilateral hip joints, bilateral sacrotuberous ligaments, and bilateral sacrospinous ligaments were intact. Tile C pelvic fractures were made on the specimens. The symphysis pubis was fixed with a plate, and the fracture on the posterior pelvic ring was fixed with two kinds of internal fixation in turn. The specimens were placed in a biomechanical machine at a standing neutral posture. A cyclic vertical load of up to 500 N was applied, and displacement was recorded. Shifts in the fracture gap were measured by a grating displacement sensor. Statistical analysis used: Paired-samples t-test. Results: Under the vertical load of 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 N, the average displacement of the specimens fixed with MIAP combined with one IS screw was 0.46, 0.735, 1.377, 1.823, and 2.215 mm, respectively, which was significantly lower than that of specimens fixed with two IS screws under corresponding load (P < 0.05). Under the vertical load of 500 N, the shift in the fracture gap of specimens fixed with MIAP combined with one IS screw was 0.261 ± 0.095 mm, and that of specimens fixed with two IS screws was 0.809 ± 0.170 mm. The difference was significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The stability of Tile C pelvic fractures fixed with MIAP combined with one IS screw was better than that fixed with two IS screws.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/28/06/CMJ-128-2312.PMC4733801.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3487773", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Antibiotic treatment can impact nontarget microbes, enriching the pool of resistance genes available to pathogens and altering community profiles of microbes beneficial to hosts. The gut microbiota of adult honeybees, a distinctive community dominated by eight bacterial species, provides an opportunity to examine evolutionary responses to long-term treatment with a single antibiotic. For decades, American beekeepers have routinely treated colonies with oxytetracycline for control of larval pathogens. Using a functional metagenomic screen of bacteria from Maryland bees, we detected a high incidence of tetracycline/oxytetracycline resistance. This resistance is attributable to known resistance loci for which nucleotide sequences and flanking mobility genes were nearly identical to those from human pathogens and from bacteria associated with farm animals. Surveys using diagnostic PCR and sequencing revealed that gut bacteria of honeybees from diverse localities in the United States harbor eight tetracycline resistance loci, including efflux pump genes (tetB, tetC, tetD, tetH, tetL, and tetY) and ribosome protection genes (tetM and tetW), often at high frequencies. Isolates of gut bacteria from Connecticut bees display high levels of tetracycline resistance. Resistance genes were ubiquitous in American samples, though rare in colonies unexposed for 25 years. In contrast, only three resistance loci, at low frequencies, occurred in samples from countries not using antibiotics in beekeeping and samples from wild bumblebees. Thus, long-term antibiotic treatment has caused the bee gut microbiota to accumulate resistance genes, drawn from a widespread pool of highly mobile loci characterized from pathogens and agricultural sites. IMPORTANCE We found that 50 years of using antibiotics in beekeeping in the United States has resulted in extensive tetracycline resistance in the gut microbiota. These bacteria, which form a distinctive community present in healthy honeybees worldwide, may function in protecting bees from disease and in providing nutrition. In countries that do not use antibiotics in beekeeping, bee gut bacteria contained far fewer resistance genes. The tetracycline resistance that we observed in American samples reflects the capture of mobile resistance genes closely related to those known from human pathogens and agricultural sites. Thus, long-term treatment to control a specific pathogen resulted in the accumulation of a stockpile of resistance capabilities in the microbiota of a healthy gut. This stockpile can, in turn, provide a source of resistance genes for pathogens themselves. The use of novel antibiotics in beekeeping may disrupt bee health, adding to the threats faced by these pollinators. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c4/b1/mBio.00377-12.PMC3487773.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3941143", "abstract": "Tryptic digestion is an important preanalytical step in shotgun proteomics because inadequate or excessive digestion can result in a failed or incomplete experiment. Unfortunately, this step is not routinely monitored before mass spectrometry because methods available for protein digestion monitoring either are time/sample consuming or require expensive equipment. To determine if a colorimetric method (ProDM Kit) can be used to identify the extent of tryptic digestion that yields the best proteomics outcome, plasma and serum digested for 8 h and 24 h were screened with ProDM, Bioanalyzer, and LC/MS/MS, and the effect of digestion on the number of proteins identified and sequence coverage was compared. About 6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3f/ad/PMC3941143.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2957997", "abstract": "Human bocavirus (HBoV) and HBoV2, two human bocavirus species, were found in 18 and 10 of 235 nasopharyngeal aspirates, respectively, from children hospitalized with acute respiratory tract infection. Our results suggest that, like HBoV, HBoV2 is distributed worldwide and may be associated with respiratory and enteric diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/c6/PMC2957997.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5053264", "abstract": "Background The onset of perioral wrinkles often prompts patients to request treatment. This aesthetic deterioration linked to aging may be associated with tooth and alveolar bone loss in fully edentulous patients. Purpose To evaluate perioral wrinkles before and after maxillary and mandibular rehabilitation with implant-retained dentures in fully edentulous patients. Methods In this prospective cohort, single-center, blinded study, patients requiring maxillary and mandibular rehabilitation with implant-retained dentures were enrolled. The patients were photographed in the same position before and after oral rehabilitation. Wrinkles were evaluated in the photographs by blinded observers using validated rating scales. The following parameters were analyzed: upper and lower radial lip lines, marionette lines, upper and lower lip fullness, nasolabial folds, corner of the mouth lines, and the labiomental crease. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon signed ranks test for paired data, with P<0.05 considered significant. Results Upper and lower implant-retained dentures were applied in 31 patients (15 males; mean ± standard deviation age 62.13±8.69 years, range 47–77 years). The oral rehabilitation procedures significantly improved (P<0.05) the upper and lower radial lip lines, marionette lines, upper and lower lip fullness, the nasolabial folds, and the corner of the mouth lines. Conclusion Maxillary and mandibular rehabilitation with implant-retained dentures in fully edentulous patients improves perioral aesthetics. Patients requiring oral rehabilitation and desiring perioral aesthetic improvement could benefit from treatment with this type of prosthesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6e/45/ccide-8-105.PMC5053264.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5432439", "abstract": "Objective To evaluate the relationship of gingival thickness (GT) and the width of keratinized gingiva (WKG) with different malocclusion groups and the level of crowding. Methods A total of 187 periodontally healthy subjects (121 females and 66 males) who presented at the Faculty of Dentistry in Yüzüncü Yıl University for orthodontic treatment were enrolled in the study. The individuals involved in the study were divided into three groups; Angle Class I malocclusion, Angle Class II malocclusion, and Angle Class III malocclusion. Each group was classified as mild, moderate, or severe according to the level of crowding. WKG was determined as the distance between the mucogingival junction and the free gingival margin. GT was determined by the transgingival probing technique. Factorial variance analysis and the Duncan multiple comparison test were employed to identify the extent to which a difference was apparent between the groups according to these parameters. Results It was determined that teeth in the mandibular anterior region display the thin gingival biotype. WKG and GT were observed as being higher at the mandibular incisor teeth in the severe crowding group and at the mandibular canine teeth in the mild crowding group. The GT of the mandibular right central and lateral incisors was found to be thinner in the Angle Class III group. Conclusions Within the limits of this study, the results demonstrate that, there is no significant relationship of WKG and the mean GT in the mandibular anterior region according to the Angle classification.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/94/ed/kjod-47-176.PMC5432439.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4371069", "abstract": "We show that electrically charged solutions within the Eddington-inspired Born–Infeld theory of gravity replace the central singularity by a wormhole supported by the electric field. As a result, the total energy associated with the electric field is finite and similar to that found in the Born–Infeld electromagnetic theory. When a certain charge-to-mass ratio is satisfied, in the lowest part of the mass and charge spectrum the event horizon disappears, yielding stable remnants. We argue that quantum effects in the matter sector can lower the mass of these remnants from the Planck scale down to the TeV scale.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9b/37/PMC4371069.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3970640", "abstract": "The etiological treatment of Chagas disease is recommended for all patients with acute or recent chronic infection, but controversies remain regarding the benefit of chemotherapy and interpretations of the parasitological cure after etiological treatment. This study compares the laboratory and clinical evaluations of Chagas disease patients who were diagnosed 13 years earlier. Fifty-eight Chagas disease patients (29 treated with benznidazole and 29 untreated) were matched at the time of treatment based on several variables. Conventional serology revealed the absence of seroconversion in all patients. However, lower serological titres were verified in the treated group, primarily among patients who had the indeterminate form of the disease. Haemoculture performed 13 years after the intervention was positive for 6.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/1e/0074-0276-mioc-108-07-00873.PMC3970640.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2716488", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tCryptosporidium parvum, one of the most important causative organisms of human diarrheas during childhood, contains a monomeric DNA-topoisomerase IB (CpTopIB) in chromosome 7. Heterologous expression of CpTopIB gene in a budding yeast strain lacking this activity proves that the cryptosporidial enzyme is functional in vivo. The enzymatic activity is comprised in a single polypeptide, which contains all the structural features defining a fully active TopIB. Relaxation activity of the yeast extracts was detected only when CpTopIB ORF was expressed in a yeast expression system showing time and protein dependence under steady state kinetic conditions. The susceptibility of CpTopIB-transformed yeast to the irreversible inhibitor camptothecin and its water-soluble derivatives (topotecan and SN-38) was assessed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/57/ca/PMC2716488.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4023454", "abstract": "Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder with a multi-faceted pathogenesis. So far, the therapeutic paradigm “one-compound-one-target” has failed and despite enormous efforts to elucidate the pathophysiology of AD, the disease is still incurable.  The multiple factors involved in AD include amyloid aggregation to form insoluble neurotoxic plaques of Aβ, hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, oxidative stress, calcium imbalance, mitochondrial dysfunction and deterioration of synaptic transmission. These factors together, accentuate changes in the CNS homeostasis, starting a complex process of interconnected physiological damage, leading to cognitive and memory impairment and neuronal death.  A recent approach for the rational design of new drug candidates, also called multitarget-directed ligand (MTDL) approach, has gained increasing attention by many research groups, which have developed a variety of hybrid compounds acting simultaneously on diverse biological targets. This review aims to show some recent advances and examples of the exploitation of MTDL approach in the rational design of novel drug candidate prototypes for the treatment of AD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/56/CN-12-239.PMC4023454.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3345218", "abstract": "Oxidative stress has a critical role in the pathophysiology of several kidney diseases, and many complications of these diseases are mediated by oxidative stress, oxidative stress-related mediators, and inflammation. Several systemic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia; infection; antibiotics, chemotherapeutics, and radiocontrast agents; and environmental toxins, occupational chemicals, radiation, smoking, as well as alcohol consumption induce oxidative stress in kidney. We searched the literature using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google scholar with “oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species, oxygen free radicals, kidney, renal injury, nephropathy, nephrotoxicity, and induction”. The literature search included only articles written in English language. Letters or case reports were excluded. Scientific relevance, for clinical studies target populations, and study design, for basic science studies full coverage of main topics, are eligibility criteria for articles used in this paper.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/87/0b/PMC3345218.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4441922", "abstract": "Background: To evaluate the effectiveness of a relapse prevention cognitive-behavioral model, based on Marlatt treatment approach, in Opioid-dependent patients participating in the Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT) in Iran. Methods: The study consisted of 92 individuals treated with methadone in Iranian National Center of Addiction Studies (INCAS). Participants were randomized into two groups: educational intervention group (N=46) and control group (N=46). The intervention was comprised of 10 weekly 90 minute sessions, done during a period of 2.5 months based on the most high risk situations determined using Inventory Drug Taking Situation instrument. Relapse was defined as not showing up for MMT, drug use for at least 5 continuous days, and a positive urinary morphine test. Results: While, only 36.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/35/PMC4441922.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3094577", "abstract": "Limb-shaking transient ischemic attacks (TIA) may occur in patients with insufficient brain perfusion due to an underlying occlusive disease. We present the case of a 64-year-old patient who suffered from repetitive TIA presenting with shaking movements of the right-sided extremities and accompanying speech arrest. Symptoms are documented in the online supplementary video (www.karger.com/doi/10.1159/000327683). These episodes were frequently triggered in orthostatic situations. The diagnosis of limb-shaking TIA was established. The diagnostic workup revealed pseudo-occlusion of the left internal carotid artery, a poor intracranial collateral status and, as a consequence, an exhausted vasomotor reserve capacity. At ultrasound examination, symptoms were provoked by a change of the patient's position from supine to sitting. During evolvement of symptoms, a dramatic decrease of flow velocities in the left middle cerebral artery was observed. This case thus documents the magnitude and dynamics of perfusion failure in a rare manifestation of cerebral ischemic disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/64/44/crn0003-0097.PMC3094577.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3260960", "abstract": "Klotho is a putative aging suppressor gene encoding a single-pass transmembrane co-receptor that makes the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor specific for FGF-23. In addition to multiple endocrine organs, Klotho is expressed in kidney distal convoluted tubules and parathyroid cells, mediating the role of FGF-23 in bone–kidney–parathyroid control of phosphate and calcium. Klotho–/– mice display premature aging and chronic kidney disease-associated mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD)-like phenotypes mediated by hyperphosphatemia and remediated by phosphate-lowering interventions (diets low in phosphate or vitamin D; knockouts of 1α-hydroxylase, vitamin D receptor, or NaPi cotransporter). CKD can be seen as a state of hyperphosphatemia-induced accelerated aging associated with Klotho deficiency. Humans with CKD experience decreased Klotho expression as early as stage 1 CKD; Klotho continues to decline as CKD progresses, causing FGF-23 resistance and provoking large FGF-23 and parathyroid hormone increases, and hypovitaminosis D. Secreted Klotho protein, formed by extracellular clipping, exerts FGF-23-independent phosphaturic and calcium-conserving effects through its paracrine action on the proximal and distal tubules, respectively. We contend that decreased Klotho expression is the earliest biomarker of CKD and the initiator of CKD-MBD pathophysiology. Maintaining normal phosphate levels with phosphate binders in patients with CKD with declining Klotho expression is expected to reduce mineral and vascular derangements.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/ab/ki201126a.PMC3260960.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2875523", "abstract": "Data continue to emerge demonstrating the poor quality of life of ICU survivors in the months and years following critical illness. In this issue of Critical Care, Cuthbertson and colleagues present new data on quality of life from a cohort of ICU survivors who were followed for 5 years. They found that survivors had poor physical quality of life and low quality adjusted life-years in comparison to age-adjusted norms, describing the long-term impact of critical illness as similar to a co-morbidity. Studies are now needed that seek to identify potentially modifiable factors both during and following an ICU admission to allow for eventual improvement in long-term morbidity. Such studies will likely need to incorporate extensive planning for data collection, as well as coordinated linkage with other available datasets that include substantial amounts of patient information from outside of the ICU.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/73/a3/PMC2875523.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3312464", "abstract": "Multiple benign osteolytic lesions are very hard to differentiate from disseminated bone metastasis. Whole-body bone scintigraphy (WBBS) with technetium-99m methylene diphosphonate (Tc-99m MDP) demonstrates multiple lesions with increased uptake in any bone involved. Even combined with medical history and multiple imaging results, such as MRI and CT, the clinical diagnosis of metastasis lesion remains as a challenge. These clinical characteristics are similar to multiple malignant bone metastases and therefore affect the following treatment procedures. In this paper, we analyzed multiple benign osteolytic lesions, like eosinophilic granuloma (EG), multiple myeloma (MM), disseminated tuberculosis, fibrous dysplasia, or enchondroma, occurring in our daily clinical work and concluded that additional attention should be paid before giving the diagnosis of multiple bone metastases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ef/fc/PMC3312464.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4248298", "abstract": "Implantation of penile nodules under the foreskin aims at improving male and female sexual pleasures during intercourse. This case discusses the characteristics of the South American penile adornment ‘Bouglou’ as well as the risk factors for penile cancer in this region of Amazonia. This is a case report of a 48-year-old man whose penis presented a destructive gland/penile shaft lesion and three adornments in the penile shaft, reported as ‘Bouglou’. The diagnosis of penile cancer was confirmed after total penectomy. This study is the first that suggests a possible association between squamous cell carcinoma and these penile adornments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/56/3a/rju126.PMC4248298.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4614611", "abstract": "Hydatid cyst is a serious parasitic infection in places, which people has a close contact with dogs or sheep. They may be found as an incidental findings during routine clinical examination or even followed by radiographic or ultrasonography evaluation. The disease becomes more complicated if rupture of the cysts occurs due to blunt trauma or spontaneously increases of intra-cystic pressure. Here, we reported a case of hydatid liver cyst that ruptured into the peritoneal cavity after blunt abdominal trauma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/99/emerg-3-45.PMC4614611.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3952325", "abstract": "The role of transcranial magnetic stimulation in epileptology is discussed in this article. Usefulness of TMS are discussed as a diagnostic tool in testing altered cortical excitability in patients with epilepsy and the modes of action of antiepileptic drugs, which are helpful to evaluate the pathophysiology of epilepsy. Also potential therapeutic tool in epilepsy with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation would be mentioned.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/e2/er-2-2-25-1.PMC3952325.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2826631", "abstract": "Duplication of chromosomal DNA is a temporally and spatially regulated process. The timing of DNA replication initiation at various origins is highly coordinated; some origins fire early and others late during S phase. Moreover, inside the nuclei, the bulk of DNA replication is physically organized in replication factories, consisting of DNA polymerases and other replication proteins. In this review article, we discuss how DNA replication is organized and regulated spatially within the nucleus and how this spatial organization is linked to temporal regulation. We focus on DNA replication in budding yeast and fission yeast and, where applicable, compare yeast DNA replication with that in bacteria and metazoans.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ce/8c/10577_2009_Article_9088.PMC2826631.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3292319", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of acute insulin-induced hypoglycemia on cerebral glucose metabolism in healthy humans, measured by 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Hyperinsulinemic glucose clamps were performed at plasma glucose levels of 5 mmol/L (euglycemia) or 3 mmol/L (hypoglycemia) in random order in eight healthy subjects (four women) on two occasions, separated by at least 3 weeks. Enriched [1-13C]glucose 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/00/9e/1467.PMC3292319.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4411725", "abstract": "In surgery for facial asymmetry, mandibles can be classified into two types, rotational and translational, according to the required mandibular movements for surgery. During surgery for rotational mandibular asymmetry, a bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) may cause a large bone gap between the proximal and distal segments as well as condylar displacement, resulting in a relapse of the temporomandibular joint disorder, especially in severe cases. The intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy has an advantage, in this respect, because it causes less rotational displacement of the proximal segment on the deviated side and even displaced or rotated condylar segments may return to their original physiologic position. Unilateral intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (UIVRO) on the short side combined with contralateral SSRO was devised as an alternative technique to resolve the spatial problems caused by conventional SSRO in cases of severe rotational asymmetry. A series of three cases were treated with the previously suggested protocol and the follow-up period was analyzed. In serial cases, UIVRO combined with contralateral SSRO may avoid mediolateral flaring of the bone segments and condylar dislocation, and result in improved condition of the temporomandibular joint. UIVRO combined with contralateral SSRO is expected to be a useful technique for the treatment of rotational mandibular asymmetry.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c0/c5/jkaoms-41-102.PMC4411725.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2779396", "abstract": "Gallstones, along with alcohol, are one of the primary etiological factors of acute pancreatitis, and knowledge of the etiology as well as the diagnosis and management of gallstones, is crucial for managing acute pancreatitis. Because of this, evidence regarding the management of gallstone-induced pancreatitis in Japan was collected, and recommendation levels were established by comparing current clinical practices with optimal clinical practices. The JPN Guidelines for managing gallstone-induced acute pancreatitis recommend two procedures: (1) an urgent endoscopic procedure should be performed in patients in whom biliary duct obstruction is suspected and in patients complicated by cholangitis (Recommendation A); and (2) after the attack of gallstone pancreatitis has subsided, a laparoscopic cholecystectomy should be performed during the same hospital stay (Recommendation B).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7a/03/PMC2779396.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2759023", "abstract": "Purpose A prospective, multicentre, observational study was undertaken to assess Tisseel® fibrin sealant for atraumatic mesh fixation in inguinal hernia repair throughout France. Methods Surgeons recorded data on patients undergoing tension-free inguinal hernioplasty with mesh fixation with Tisseel®, regardless of the hernioplasty technique used. Assessments were made at 2 days and 1 month after surgery. Data on local complications, operation times and ease of product use were collected. Results In total, 1,201 patients were recruited (90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7a/a9/PMC2759023.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4628653", "abstract": "Although bone cancer pain is still not fully understood by scientists and clinicians alike, studies suggest that toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays an important role in the initiation and/or maintenance of pathological pain state in bone cancer pain. A promising treatment for bone cancer pain is the downregulation of TLR4 by RNA interference; however, naked siRNA (small interference RNA) is not effective in long-term treatments. In order to concoct a viable prolonged treatment for bone cancer pain, an inducible lentivirus LvOn-siTLR4 (tetracycline inducible lentivirus carrying siRNA targeting TLR4) was prepared and the antinociception effects were observed in bone cancer pain rats induced by Walker 256 cells injection in left leg. Results showed that LvOn-siTLR4 intrathecal injection with doxycycline (Dox) oral administration effectively reduced the nociception induced by Walker 256 cells while inhibiting the mRNA and protein expression of TLR4. Proinflammatory cytokines as TNF-α and IL-1β in spinal cord were also decreased. These findings suggest that TLR4 could be a target for bone cancer pain treatment and tetracycline inducible lentivirus LvOn-siTLR4 represents a new potential option for long-term treatment of bone cancer pain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6b/de/PMC4628653.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2952612", "abstract": "Relaxing retinotomies and retinectomies are used in the presence of retinal shortening resulting from retinal incarceration or fibrous proliferation and contraction that prevents contact of the retina with the retinal pigment epithelium. The peripheral retina is usually cut or excised to preserve function of the posterior retina which is more visually significant. Objective To investigate the techniques, therapeutic effects, indications, and complications of relaxing retinotomies and retinectomies for complicated retinal detachment with severe proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Methods Thirty eight eyes of 38 patients of complicated retinal detachment with severe PVR were recruited for a noncomparative retrospective study. They were operated on and followed-up for at least six months. The operative technique included buckling, vitrectomy, peeling, relaxing retinotomy and/or retinectomy, intraocular tamponade, and laser treatment. Results Retina was reattached in 34 (89.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b7/a4/PMC2952612.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5094686", "abstract": "The discovery of new bacteria from the human gut using a culturomics method is a novel field of increasing interest in microbiology. Here the main characteristics of “Bacillus massiliogabonensis” strain Marseille P2639, a new Gram-negative bacterium isolated from the stool sample of a healthy 16-year-old Gabonese boy, are reported.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/df/05/main.PMC5094686.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3169992", "abstract": "Invasive aspergillosis is a life-threatening fungal infection predominately affecting immunocompromised individuals. The incidence of inpatient-treated aspergillosis cases in the US is estimated to be between 3.02 and 3.80 per 10,000 hospitalized patients. The estimated difference in hospital costs of patients with an aspergillosis infection is US36,867 to US59,356 higher than those of patients without the infection. Voriconazole is a synthetic, broad spectrum triazole antifungal agent, with FDA-approved indications for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis, esophageal candidiasis, candidemia in nonneutropenic patients, invasive candidiasis, and infections due to Scedosporium apiospermum and Fusarium species in patients refractory to or intolerant of other therapy. Eight cost-effectiveness analyses, one cost-minimization analysis, and one cost analysis were identified from a Medline search. The 10 pharmacoeconomic analyses were conducted in six different countries comparing voriconazole to conventional amphotericin B, liposomal amphotericin B, itraconazole, and caspofungin. All the cost-effectiveness and cost-minimization analyses identified voriconazole as the most cost-effective therapy. The cost analysis demonstrated voriconazole cost-savings. While the acquisition costs of voriconazole are higher than those of conventional amphotericin B, the toxicity profile and rate of treatment success associated with voriconazole result in lower total treatment costs per successfully treated patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/de/PMC3169992.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3155273", "abstract": "We report a case of myopic choroidal neovascularization that showed improvement after a single injection of ranibizumab. A 45-year-old Chinese man with high myopia presented with sudden onset painless central scotoma of his right eye of 2 weeks’ duration. There was no history of trauma. His right eye vision on presentation was 6/30 which showed no improvement with pinhole. The right fundus showed myopic maculopathy at the posterior pole with subretinal hemorrhage at the inferotemporal fovea. The optic disc was tilted with inferotemporal peripapillary atrophy. There was a myopic maculopathy appearance in the macula of the left eye. Fundus fluorescein angiography revealed choroidal neovascularization at the fovea of the right eye. A diagnosis of right eye choroidal neovascularization secondary to myopic maculopathy was made. A single intravitreal injection of ranibizumab 0.05 mL was given. Ten weeks following intravitreal injection, vision had improved to 6/7.5, and repeated fundus fluorescein angiography showed absence of choroidal neovascularization. Follow-up at 6 months showed visual acuity had normalized to 6/6 with glasses, which was maintained up to 12 months following treatment. The right fundus showed no further subretinal hemorrhage with no new lesions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7b/7e/PMC3155273.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4091100", "abstract": "Upon entry into mitosis, many microtubules are nucleated that coordinately integrate into a stable, yet dynamic, mitotic spindle apparatus. In a recent publication, we examined microtubule-generating pathways within a single model system, the Drosophila syncytial embryo. We found that, following depolymerisation of metaphase spindle microtubules by cold treatment, spindles regenerate predominantly from microtubules nucleated within the vicinity of chromatin. We also showed this chromatin-mediated microtubule nucleation is mediated by the Drosophila homolog of a vertebrate spindle assembly factor (SAF), HURP and is dependent on the conserved microtubule amplifying protein complex, Augmin. Here, we expand our investigation into Drosophila SAFs, providing evidence that, in vitro, both D-HURP and D-TPX2 are able to bind to and stabilize microtubules. We show that GFP-D-HURP purified from embryos interacts with Importin-β and Augmin and, consistent with this, demonstrate that the underlying basis of chromatin-mediated microtubule nucleation in Drosophila syncytial embryos is dependent on Ran-GTP.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/1c/cib-7-e28512.PMC4091100.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5030314", "abstract": "The natural history of idiopathic abducens nerve paresis and the role of conservative management such as vision training during the recovery process is not well documented in the literature to the best of our knowledge. This case report presents the natural recovery process of idiopathic abducens nerve paresis in a young adult and the role of vision therapy in the recovery process.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/0b/main.PMC5030314.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3897636", "abstract": "A 7-year-old boy was diagnosed with a recurrent embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma in the retroperitoneum. After resection of the mass, direct end-to-end anastomosis of the ureter was not possible owing to the length of the resected segment. Accordingly, we performed ureteral substitution by using the appendix to repair the ureteral defect.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/89/14/kju-55-77.PMC3897636.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3424184", "abstract": "There has been no report of bilateral pedicle stress fractures involving two vertebrae. The authors describe a unique case of spondylolisthesis accompanying a bilateral pedicle stress fracture involving two vertebrae. De novo development of spondylolisthesis at the L5-S1 vertebrae accompanying a bilateral pedicle stress fracture at L4 and L5 was observed in a 70-year-old woman. The patient's medical history was unremarkable and she did not have any predisposing factors except severe osteoporosis. Interbody fusion with bone cement augmented screw fixation was performed. Surgical treatment resulted in good pain management and improved functional recovery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/5a/jkns-51-388.PMC3424184.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4295455", "abstract": "Background: There has been an increase in the development and use of oral health-related quality-of-life (OHRQoL) measures in the past two decades. This study aimed to assess the association between OHRQoL and clinical oral health measures, among mid-level school children in Southeast of Iran. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a random cluster sample of 11-13 year-old student population. Consented participants interviewed for OHRQoL measurements using Persian version of child-oral impacts on daily performances (OIDP). Oral examination was done by a trained dentist using WHO oral health assessment form, version 2011. Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 20 using Mann–Whitney and correlation tests. Results: A total of 400 school children participated. The overall mean of decayed missing filled teeth (DMFT) was 1.76 ± 2.4. A total of 82", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/90/JIOH-6-5.PMC4295455.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4863767", "abstract": "Abstract Complex distal intra-articular radial fractures (AO Type C3) are rare, but are life-changing injuries. They are usually related to high-velocity trauma mechanisms in a working male population. We surveyed a cohort of these fractures treated in our institution to assess the functional long-term outcome. Twelve consecutive patients with comminuted intra-articular distal radial fractures were treated at our institution. Osteosynthesis was performed by a single senior surgeon with volar and dorsal extended approaches. The intermediate and final control included conventional X-ray, range of motion (ROM), grip strength, and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand index (DASH), as well as the Patient-rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score for functional outcome at 1 and 10 years’ of follow-up. At 10 years’ follow-up, anatomic reconstruction with a step or gap of <1 mm was achieved in 10 of the 12 above-mentioned patients, whereas 2 patients were lost to follow-up. ROM was good to excellent in 8 patients. Median grip strength was 107", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/6c/medi-95-e3509.PMC4863767.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4421547", "abstract": "Late referral of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a known problem and a major challenge for practising nephrologists since decades. In this review we report about the reasons for late referral, its epidemiology and socioeconomic impact and the medical particularities of late referred patients. We furthermore highlight on the efforts which have been undertaken so far to avoid late referral and should be undertaken in future to face the ever growing numbers of chronic kidney disease patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/79/d9/sfp050.PMC4421547.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4232263", "abstract": "Peptide therapeutics hold attractive potential. However, the proper stabilization of such therapeutics remains a major challenge. Some peptides are marginally stable and are prone to degradation. Therefore, in addition to chemical modifications that can be introduced in their sequence, a wide variety of excipients are added in the formulation to stabilize them, as is also done routinely for protein therapeutics. These substances are supposed to suppress peptide/protein aggregation and surface adsorption, facilitate their dispersion and additionally to provide physiological osmolality. Particular attention has to be paid to the choice of such excipients. Here we highlight the observation that in certain clinical situations, an excipient that is not totally inert can play a highly damaging role and mask (or even reverse) the beneficial effect of a molecule in clinical evaluation. This is the case, for instance, of trehalose, a normally safe excipient, which notably has proven to act as an activator of autophagy. This excipient, although used efficiently in several therapeutics, adversely impacted a phase IIb clinical trial for human and murine lupus, a systemic autoimmune disease in which it has been recently discovered that at the base line, autophagy is already abnormally enhanced in lymphocytes. Thus, in this particular pathology, while the peptide that was tested was active in lupus patients when formulated in mannitol, it was not efficient when formulated in trehalose. This observation is important, since autophagy is enhanced in a variety of pathological situations, such as obesity, diabetes, certain neurological diseases, and cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/a7/10.1177_0961203314525249.PMC4232263.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5238494", "abstract": "Introduction: Working in the complex and ever changing healthcare settings forces the nurses and nursing students to be equipped with lifelong learning skills. One of the lifelong learning skills is self-directed learning. This study aimed to explore the M.Sc. nursing students’ self-directed learning activities.  Methods: A qualitative design using conventional content analysis approach was used in this study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve Iranian M.Sc. nursing students who were selected using purposive sampling.   Results: Data analysis indicated that the M.Sc. nursing students performed different activities in their self-directed learning. These activities were categorized into four main themes and ten subthemes. The main themes were “sensory perceptions”, “knowledge construction”, “problem-centered orientation”, and “interaction with others”.  Conclusion: According to the findings, the M.Sc. nursing students performed different intellectual and experiential self-directed activities for promoting their learning. Besides, the students’ perseverance and inquisitiveness played an important role in their self-directed learning in the challenging clinical environments. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/f0/JAMP-5-33.PMC5238494.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3471252", "abstract": "Objective The purpose of this study was to perform a clinical analysis of nine patients with giant aneurysms managed with endovascular embolization. Methods From March 2000 to September 2009, nine cases of giant intracranial aneurysms were treated (five unruptured and four ruptured). The nine patients included two males and seven females who were 47 to 72 years old (mean, 59.2 years old). The types of giant intracranial aneurysms were eight internal carotid artery aneurysms and one vertebral artery aneurysm. Treatment for each aneurysm was chosen based on anatomic relationships, aneurysmal factors, and the patients' clinical state. Three patients underwent endovascular coiling with stent and six initially underwent endovascular coiling alone. Medical records, operation records, postoperative angiographies, and follow-up angiographies were reviewed retrospectively. Results Eight out of nine patients showed good clinical outcomes. (six were excellent and two were good) after a mean follow-up period of 27.9 months. Six (67", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/89/jcen-14-22.PMC3471252.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3958576", "abstract": "Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of implant removal of percutaneous short segment fixation after vertebral fracture consolidation in terms of motion preservation. Methods Between May 2007 and January 2011, 44 patients underwent percutaneous short segment screw fixation due to a thoracolumbar burst fracture. Sixteen of these patients, who underwent implant removal 12 months after screw fixation, were enrolled in this study. Motor power was intact in all patients, despite significant vertebral height loss and canal compromise. The patients were divided into two groups by degree of osteoporosis : Group A (n=8), the non-osteoporotic group, and Group B (n=8), the osteoporotic group. Imaging and clinical findings including vertebral height loss, kyphotic angle, range of motion (ROM), and complications were analyzed. Results Significant pain relief was achieved in both groups at final follow-up versus preoperative values. In terms of vertebral height loss, both groups showed significant improvement at 12 months after screw fixation and restored vertebral height was maintained to final follow-up in spite of some correction loss. ROM (measured using Cobb's method) in flexion and extension in Group A was 10.5° (19.5/9.0°) at last follow-up, and in Group B was 10.2° (18.8/8.6°) at last follow-up. Both groups showed marked improvement in ROM as compared with the screw fixation state, which was considered motionless. Conclusion Removal of percutaneous implants after vertebral fracture consolidation can be an effective treatment to preserve motion regardless of osteoporosis for thoracolumbar burst fractures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ae/9e/jkns-55-73.PMC3958576.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5216203", "abstract": "Purpose To report a case of Staphylococcus epidermidis endophthalmitis following 27-gauge pars plana vitrectomy for symptomatic vitreous floaters. Methods The clinical course and imaging findings, including fundus optomap, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography of a 24-year-old male patient were documented. Results The patient, with a preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 1.0, developed endophthalmitis following 27-gauge pars plana vitrectomy for symptomatic vitreous floaters. After a series of treatments, including emergent vitreous tap and silicone oil injection, antibiotic treatment, and silicone oil removal, the patient regained a BCVA of 0.6. Conclusion Although rare, the potential risk of endophthalmitis should be explicitly discussed with patients considering surgical intervention for vitreous floaters.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/dd/cop-0007-0245.PMC5216203.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC441417", "abstract": "The 6th annual Cancer Vaccines and Immunotherapy Colloquium at Walker's Cay was held under the auspices of the Albert B. Sabin Vaccine Institute on March 10–13, 2004. The Colloquium consisted of a select group of 34 scientists representing academia, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry. The main goal of this gathering was to promote in a peaceful and comfortable environment exchanges between basic and clinical science. The secondary benefit was to inspire novel bench to bedside ventures and at the same time provide feed back about promising and/or disappointing clinical results that could help re-frame some scientific question or guide the design of future trials. Several topics were covered that included tumor antigen discovery and validation, platforms for vaccine development, tolerance, immune suppression and tumor escape mechanisms, adoptive T cell therapy and dendritic cell-based therapies, clinical trials and assessment of response. Here we report salient points raised by speakers or by the audience during animated discussion that followed each individual presentation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/31/a8/PMC441417.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3469090", "abstract": " Objectives. To determine the incidence and type of premalignant or malignant changes in mammaplasty specimens and to determine the incidence of these changes according to age distribution. Methods. Retrospective database review of patients who underwent a reduction mammaplasty between 1999 and 2009 was performed from pathology records at a single institution. Results. 700 patients were identified. Of the 644 patients who had bilateral reductions, 25 (4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9e/84/PMC3469090.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3047636", "abstract": "Operative treatment of prepatellar bursitis is indicated in intractable bursitis. The most common complication of surgical treatment for prepatellar bursitis is skin problems. For traumatic prepatellar bursitis, we propose a protocol of outpatient endoscopic surgery under local anaesthesia. From September 1996 to February 2001, 60 cases of failed nonoperative treatment for prepatellar bursitis were included. The average age was 33.5 ± 11.1 years (range 21–55). The average operation duration was 18 minutes. Two to three mini-arthroscopic portals were used in our series. No sutures or a simple suture was needed for the portals after operation. After follow-up for an average of 36.3 months, all patients are were symptom-free and had regained knee function. None of the population had local tenderness or hypo-aesthesia around their wound. Their radiographic and sonographic examinations showed no recurrence of bursitis. Outpatient arthroscopic bursectomy under local anaesthesia is an effective procedure for the treatment of post-traumatic prepatellar bursitis after failed conservative treatments. Both the cosmetic results and functional results were satisfactory.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/ea/264_2010_Article_1033.PMC3047636.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3710947", "abstract": "Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) refers to the presence of orthostatic intolerance with a heart rate (HR) increment of 30 beats per minute (bpm) or an absolute HR of 120 bpm or more. There are sporadic reports of the autonomic nervous system dysfunction in migraine and fibromyalgia. We report a case of POTS associated with migraine and fibromyalgia. The patient was managed with multidisciplinary therapies involving medication, education, and exercise which resulted in symptomatic improvement. We also review the literature on the association between POTS, migraine, and fibromyalgia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/83/kjpain-26-303.PMC3710947.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3220894", "abstract": "Postpartum cerebral angiopathy (PCA) is a cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome developing shortly after delivery, without signs of preceding eclampsia. The risk for recurrence of PCA is unknown. Here, we report on a closely monitored, uneventful pregnancy of a woman with a previous severe episode of PCA. In summary, this case report demonstrates that PCA does not necessarily recur in following pregnancies, even after previous severe episodes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3d/78/crn0003-0252.PMC3220894.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3590708", "abstract": "The risk of diabetes is markedly reduced in men with iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). The nature of this relationship in women is not clear, nor is there information about the influence of ethnicity, given the increased susceptibility of diabetes amongst South Asians and Afro-Caribbeans. We reviewed 3563 patients with a diagnosis of anaemia from 2000 to 2007. The age-adjusted prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency and IDA was calculated, together with cardiovascular comorbidities amongst Caucasians, South Asians, and Afro-Caribbeans. The prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency (women only) or IDA was markedly higher in South Asians compared to Caucasians and Afro-Caribbeans. Among women with IDA, diabetes was more prevalent among South Asians (45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a0/43/PMC3590708.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3403647", "abstract": " As the nation's healthcare information infrastructure continues to evolve, new technologies promise to provide readily accessible health information that can help people address personal and community health concerns. In particular, wearable and implantable medical sensors and portable computing devices present many opportunities for providing timely health information to health providers, public health professionals, and consumers. Concerns about privacy and information quality, however, may impede the development and deployment of these technologies for remote health monitoring. Patients may fail to apply sensors correctly, device can be stolen or compromised (exposing the medical data therein to a malicious party), low-cost sensors controlled by a capable attacker might generate falsified data, and sensor data sent to the server can be captured in the air by an eavesdropper; there are many opportunities for sensitive health data to be lost, forged, or exposed. In this paper, we design a framework for secure remote health-monitoring systems; we build a realistic risk model for sensor-data quality and propose a new health-monitoring architecture that is secure despite the weaknesses of common personal devices. For evaluation, we plan to implement a proof of concept for secure health monitoring.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5a/4e/PMC3403647.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3177839", "abstract": "Infantile myofibromatosis is a rare fibrous tumor of infancy. The cutaneous solitary type has typically an excellent prognosis. However, histologically, it is important to rule out leiomyosarcoma, which has a poor prognosis. The low frequency of mitosis was definitive for a diagnosis of infantile myofibromatosis. We present a cutaneous solitary-type case of infantile myofibromatosis. Following incisional biopsy, the tumor remitted spontaneously.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/e9/cde0003-0181.PMC3177839.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4579955", "abstract": "Background The recent availability of dabigatran, a novel oral anticoagulant, provided a new treatment option for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation beyond warfarin, the main therapy for years. Little is known about their real‐world comparative effectiveness and safety, even less among patient demographic and clinical subgroups. Methods and Results Using a cohort of non‐valvular AF patients initiating anticoagulation from October 2010 to December 2012 drawn from a large US database of commercial and Medicare supplement claims, we applied propensity score weights to Cox proportional hazards regression to assess the comparative effectiveness and safety of dabigatran versus warfarin. Analyses were repeated among clinical and demographic subgroups using stratum‐specific propensity scores as an exploratory analysis. Of the 64 935 patients initiating anticoagulation, 32.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/1e/jah3-4-e001798.PMC4579955.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3671732", "abstract": "There is a strong association between nutrition and reproduction. Chronic dietary energy deficits as well as energy surpluses can impair reproductive capacity. Metabolic status impacts reproductive function at systemic level, modulating the hypothalamic GnRH neuronal network and/or the pituitary gonadotropin secretion through several hormones and neuropeptides, and at the ovarian level, acting through the regulation of follicle growth and steroidogenesis by means of the growth hormone-IGF-insulin system and local ovarian mediators. In the past years, several hormones and neuropeptides have been emerging as important mediators between energy balance and reproduction. The present review goes over the main sites implicated in the control of energy balance linked to reproductive success and summarizes the most important metabolic and neuroendocrine signals that participate in reproductive events with special emphasis on the role of recently discovered neuroendocrine peptides. Also, a little overview about the effects of maternal nutrition, affecting offspring reproduction, has been presented.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/74/ed/PMC3671732.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5225155", "abstract": "Abstract Acute viral hepatitis is usually a self-limiting illness. However, it can lead to complications that can be life-threatening, such as acute liver failure. Glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in the setting of acute viral hepatitis can lead to a massive hemolysis, manifesting as acute kidney injury and markedly raised bilirubin levels; although cases are rare. Here, we report such a case. The patient had a viral hepatitis E infection and presented with kidney injury requiring dialysis. Examination showed very high mixed hyperbilirubinemia due to massive intravascular hemolysis. The patient experienced a long, protracted course of illness, requiring renal replacement therapy with other supportive management, which led to improvement over a period of four weeks. This case highlights the importance of recognizing associated hemolysis in a patient with viral hepatitis who presents with very high bilirubin levels or associated kidney injury. Such patients will require aggressive supportive care with prompt fluid and electrolyte management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/d5/JCTH-4-345.PMC5225155.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3798201", "abstract": "Purpose The aim of the study reported here was to compare the improvement of visual acuity (VA) of diabetic and nondiabetic patients after neodymium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy. Methods In this prospective cohort study, 50 age- and sex-matched patients, comprising 25 nondiabetics and 25 diabetics (referred to as Group A and B, respectively), with posterior chamber poly(methyl methacrylate) non-foldable intraocular lens implants attending our clinic at Karachi for capsulotomy had pre- and postoperative measures of VA, posterior pole visibility, and grading of posterior capsular opacity as seen on slit-lamp examination. VA was recorded before and after performing standard capsulotomy. Results The postoperative (mean) VA in nondiabetics was 0.25, 0.23, and 0.21 logMAR as compared with 0.25, 0.25, and 0.24 logMAR in diabetics at 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months, respectively. P-values of 0.47, 0.47, and 0.24, respectively, were determined, which were not significant. Preoperative VA improvement was recorded in 92", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/f9/opth-7-2011.PMC3798201.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3184753", "abstract": "The aim of this case report was to present a case of multiple idiopathic apical root resorption which is a rare condition in a 17-year-old adult male. External root resorption of the permanent teeth is a multifactorial process. Well-recognized causes of apical root resorption in permanent teeth include orthodontic therapy, trauma, periapical or periodontal inflammation, tumors, cysts, occlusal stress, impacted teeth, systemic conditions, endocrine imbalances and dietary habits. When none of these causes are present, it is termed idiopathic root resorption which may be either cervical or apical. Multiple idiopathic apical root resorption is a rare condition which is usually detected as an incidental radiographic finding. However, it may cause pain and mobility in severe cases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/a6/jod-7-165.PMC3184753.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3205706", "abstract": "In the 1980s the outlook for patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and critical illness was poor. Since then several studies of outcome of HIV+ patients on ICU have shown improving prognosis, with anti-retroviral therapy playing a large part. We retrospectively examined intensive care (ICU) admissions in a large HIV unit in London. Between April 2001 and April 2006 43 patients were admitted to the ICU. The mean age of patients was 44 years and 74", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3a/6f/PMC3205706.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4616079", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to analyze cervical muscle activity at different traction forces of an air-inflatable neck traction device. [Subjects] Eighteen males participated in this study. [Methods] The subjects put on an air-inflatable neck traction device and the traction forces administered were 40, 80, and 120 mmHg. The electromyography (EMG) signals of the splenius capitis, and upper trapezius were measured to assess the muscle activity. [Results] The muscle activity of the splenius capitis was significantly higher at 80, and 120 mmHg compared to 40 mmHg. The muscle activity of the upper trapezius did not show significant differences among the traction forces. [Conclusion] Our research result showed that the air-inflatable home neck traction device did not meet the condition of muscle relaxation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9a/4a/jpts-27-2723.PMC4616079.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2864892", "abstract": "The present study was designed to evaluate the influence of α-lipoic acid treatment in rats exposed to malathion. Forty adult male rats were used in this study and distributed into four groups. Animals of group 1 were untreated and served as control. Rats of group 2 were orally given malathion at a dose level of 100 mg/kg body weight (BW) for a period of one month. Experimental animals of group 3 were orally given α-lipoic acid at a dose level of 20 mg/kg BW and after 3 hours exposed to malathion at the same dose given to group 2. Rats of group 4 were supplemented with α-lipoic acid at the same dose given to group 3. The activities of serum glutamic oxaloacetic acid transaminase (GOT), glutamic pyruvic acid transaminase (GPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and acid phosphatase (ACP), and the values of creatinine, urea, and uric acid were statistically increased, while the values of total protein and total albumin were significantly decreased in rats exposed to malathion. Moreover, administration of malathion for one month resulted in damage of liver and kidney structures. Administration of α-lipoic acid before malathion exposure to rat can prevent severe alterations of hematobiochemical parameters and disruptions of liver and kidney structures. In conclusion, this study obviously demonstrated that pretreatment with α-lipoic acid significantly attenuated the physiological and histopathological alterations induced by malathion.  Also, the present study identifies new areas of research for development of better therapeutic agents for liver, kidney, and other organs' dysfunctions and diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/50/PMC2864892.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4790520", "abstract": "Introduction Although the majority of opioids in the US are prescribed by nonpain specialists, these providers often report inadequate training in chronic pain management and opioid prescribing. The extent of health care providers’ knowledge of opioid prescribing for chronic pain has not been well established. The purpose of this study was to assess knowledge about the use of opioids for chronic pain among health care providers seeking pain-focused continuing medical education. Materials and methods The study participants (n=131) were recruited at a pain-focused continuing medical education conference for nonpain specialists. Upon commencement of the conference, the KnowPain-50 survey was completed. The survey comprised 50 questions, and 18 questions were related to opioid management. The focus of each opioid question was further categorized as either medicolegal (n=7) or clinical (n=11). Results The majority of study participants were male physicians with a mean age of 51.8 years. The proportion of correct responses to the 50-item survey was 72", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/d3/jpr-9-129.PMC4790520.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4443301", "abstract": "Background: Establishing professional communication between physicians and nurses regarding their supplemental roles in health care for patients is unavoidable. Existing studies have reported on related problems concerning ineffective professional collaboration among health care providers. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine Iranian bachelor of nursing students’ attitudes regarding collaboration between physicians and nurses at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Patients and Methods: This study was an inferential cross sectional study. The study population consisted of all first and fourth academic-year Iranian bachelor of nursing students at Tehran University of Medical Sciences (277 individuals), who were selected by convenience sampling. The participation rate was 97.47", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5b/cb/ircmj-17-04-23247.PMC4443301.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3236476", "abstract": " Introduction. Otitis media with effusion is a common pediatric disease whose diagnosis is based on pneumatic otoscopy, pure-tone audiometry, and tympanometry. The aim of this study was to evaluate transiently evoked otoacoustic emissions in the diagnosis of otitis media with effusion as compared to tympanometry. Patients and Methods. 38 children with bilateral otitis media with effusion were studied. 40 normal children of similar age and sex were used as controls. All subjects underwent pneumatic otoscopy, standard pure-tone audiometry, tympanometry, and transiently evoked otoacoustic emissions. Results. In the group of children with bilateral otitis media, transiently evoked otoacoustic emissions were absent in 51 ears (67", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/16/PMC3236476.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4541642", "abstract": "Fagot     Paleressompoulle1 and Fagot     Bonte2 have published an automated learning device (ALDM) for the study of cognitive abilities of monkeys maintained in semi-free ranging conditions. Data accumulated during the last five years have consistently demonstrated the efficiency of this protocol to investigate individual/physical cognition in monkeys, and have further shown that this procedure reduces stress level during animal testing3. This paper demonstrates that networks of ALDM can also be used to investigate different facets of social cognition and in-group expressed behaviors in monkeys, and describes three illustrative protocols developed for that purpose. The first study demonstrates how ethological assessments of social behavior and computerized assessments of cognitive performance could be integrated to investigate the effects of socially exhibited moods on the cognitive performance of individuals. The second study shows that batteries of ALDM running in parallel can provide unique information on the influence of the presence of others on task performance. Finally, the last study shows that networks of ALDM test units can also be used to study issues related to social transmission and cultural evolution. Combined together, these three studies demonstrate clearly that ALDM testing is a highly promising experimental tool for bridging the gap in the animal literature between research on individual cognition and research on social cognition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/2f/jove-99-52798.PMC4541642.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4620845", "abstract": "The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP 2011) defines neuropathic pain as “the pain caused by an injury or disease of the somatosensory portion of the nervous system”. The central neuropathic pain is defined as “the pain caused by an injury or disease of the central somatosensory central nervous system”, whereas the peripheral neuropathic pain is defined as “the pain caused by an injury or disease of the peripheral somatosensory nervous system”. The peripheral neuropathy describes any affection of the peripheral nervous system. The etiology is vast, there being a number of over 100 possible causes, which causes the global morbidity rate to reach approximately 2.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5b/76/cm8702p67.PMC4620845.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4311275", "abstract": "Whether or not Borrelia burgdorferi can persist after conventional treatment with antimicrobials has been a very controversial issue. Two recent studies took different approaches to try to answer this question. In one, investigators showed that, in each of 22 instances in 17 patients with two consecutive episodes of culture-proved erythema migrans, the strains of B. burgdorferi were different based on their genotypes. This indicated that the repeat episodes were due to new infections rather than recrudescence of the original infection. In another study, in which persistence of B. burgdorferi was assessed by using xenodiagnosis, no viable B. burgdorferi were cultured from ticks fed on any of the patients. There continues to be no evidence that viable B. burgdorferi persist in humans after conventional treatment with antimicrobials.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3d/bf/medrep-07-11.PMC4311275.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4405314", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message A pregnancy with conjoined twins was observed after transfer of a multinuclear embryo. As nuclear mechanisms have a role in cellular differentiation, association between multinucleation and fetal malformations is possible. Follow-up studies on children born after transfer of embryos with bi/multinuclear blastomeres are needed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a8/f3/ccr30003-0260.PMC4405314.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4076453", "abstract": "Background It is well-established that influenza vaccination reduces adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVD), however, the vaccine coverage rate in most countries remains low. The concern about the local adverse effects of intramuscular injection, particularly in CVD patients receiving antithrombotic therapy, is one of the important impediments. This study was conducted to assess the safety, side effects and tolerability of intradermal influenza vaccine in CVD patients. Methods This was an observational study in adult CVD patients who had undergone vaccination against seasonal influenza by intradermal vaccination between May 16th and May 30th, 2012 at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital. The medical history, patients' acceptability and adverse effects were collected using a written questionnaire completed by the patient immediately following vaccination and by a telephone survey eight days later. Results Among 169 patients, 52.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4f/d3/jgc-11-02-131.PMC4076453.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4971280", "abstract": "Introduction Long-term risk functions highlight the need of prophylaxis in youth before the first symptoms of cardiovascular disease (CVD) occur. Aim On the basis of data obtained in the StudHeart study, the aim of this report was to evaluate the 30-year risk of CVD based on the risk scale developed by the Framingham Heart Study (FHS). Material and methods Seven hundred and one students aged 22–27 (mean age: 24 ±1.42) from the 5th and 6th year of the medical faculties of the Medical University of Lodz were included in the study. The StudHeart study was based on an anonymous survey comprising 12 questions. Based on the answers the authors evaluated the 30-year risk of CVD in each respondent using an on-line calculator that allows one to evaluate: general CVD risk including coronary death, myocardial infarction, coronary insufficiency, angina, ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, transient ischemic attack, peripheral artery disease, heart failure and hard CVD risk including coronary death, myocardial infarction and stroke. Results Elevated general 30-year CVD risk occurred in 23.18", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/88/KITP-13-27935.PMC4971280.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4386073", "abstract": "Background: Diabetes mellitus as a chronic metabolic disease occurs in patients with partial or complete deficiency of insulin secretion or disorder in action of insulin on tissue. The disease is known to provide conditions for overgrowth of Candida species. Candida spp. cause candidiasis by many virulence factors such as esterase, hemolysin and phospholipase. Objectives: This study aimed to compare esterase and hemolytic activity in various Candida species isolated from oral cavity of diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. Patients and Methods: Swab samples were taken from 95 patients with diabetes (35 men and 60 women) and 95 normal persons (42 men and 53 women) and cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar. Identification of isolated yeasts was performed by germ tube test, morphology on CHROMagar Candida medium, corn meal agar and ability to grow at 45°C. Hemolysin activity was evaluated using blood plate assay and esterase activity was determined using the Tween 80 opacity test. Results: Different Candida species were isolated from 57 (60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/85/jjm-08-03-20893.PMC4386073.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3444040", "abstract": "Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) originating both from both natural and manmade sources permeate our environment. As people are continuously exposed to EMFs in everyday life, it is a matter of great debate whether they can be harmful to human health.  On the basis of two decades of epidemiological studies, an increased risk for childhood leukemia associated with Extremely Low Frequency fields has been consistently assessed, inducing the International Agency for Research on Cancer to insert them in the 2B section of carcinogens in 2001. EMFs interaction with biological systems may cause oxidative stress under certain circumstances. Since free radicals are essential for brain physiological processes and pathological degeneration, research focusing on the possible influence of the EMFs-driven oxidative stress is still in progress, especially in the light of recent studies suggesting that EMFs may contribute to the etiology of neurodegenerative disorders. This review synthesizes the emerging evidences about this topic, highlighting the wide data uncertainty that still characterizes the EMFs effect on oxidative stress modulation, as both pro-oxidant and neuroprotective effects have been documented. Care should be taken to avoid methodological limitations and to determine the patho-physiological relevance of any alteration found in EMFs-exposed biological system.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/2a/PMC3444040.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4786910", "abstract": "Genome editing based on sequence-specific designer nucleases, also known as programmable nucleases, seeks to modify in a targeted and precise manner the genetic information content of living cells. Delivering into cells designer nucleases alone or together with donor DNA templates, which serve as surrogate homologous recombination (HR) substrates, can result in gene knockouts or gene knock-ins, respectively. As engineered replication-defective viruses, viral vectors are having an increasingly important role as delivery vehicles for donor DNA templates and designer nucleases, namely, zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) and clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated Cas9 (CRISPR−Cas9) nucleases, also known as RNA-guided nucleases (RGNs). We review this dual role played by engineered viral particles on genome editing while focusing on their main scaffolds, consisting of lentiviruses, adeno-associated viruses, and adenoviruses. In addition, the coverage of the growing body of research on the repurposing of viral vectors as delivery systems for genome editing tools is complemented with information regarding their main characteristics, pros, and cons. Finally, this information is framed by a concise description of the chief principles, tools, and applications of the genome editing field as a whole.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cf/1f/mt2015164a.PMC4786910.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4325119", "abstract": "Purpose To determine effectiveness of Valsalva maneuver and standing position on scrotal color Doppler ultrasound (CDU) for the varicocele diagnosis. Materials and Methods We reviewed the physical examination and CDU finding in 87 patients who visited National Police Hospital from January 2011 to April 2014. Diameters of pampiniform plexus were measured bilaterally during resting and Valsalva maneuver in the supine position and standing position. We calculated the ratio of mean of maximal vein diameter (mMVD) during resting and Valsalva maneuver (resting-Valsalva ratio) and compared in the both position. Results In the resting and supine position, mMVD of varicocele testis units were 1.8 mm, 2.1 mm, 2.6 mm (grades I, II, III, respectively), and that of normal testis units (NTU) 1.2 mm. During Valsalva maneuver in the supine position, mMVD were 3.0 mm, 3.4 mm, 4.2 mm (grades I, II, III) vs 1.8 mm (NTU) (p=0.007, p<0.001, p<0.001, respectively). Average of resting-Valsalva ratio in the supine position were 0.69, 0.74, 0.74 (grades I, II, III) and 0.67 (NTU). Whereas in the resting and standing position, mMVD were 2.8 mm, 3.3 mm, 3.8 mm (grades I, II, III) and 1.8 mm (NTU) (p=0.002, p<0.001, p<0.001). During Valsalva maneuver in the standing position, mMVD were 5.0 mm, 5.8 mm, 6.6 mm (grades I, II, III) and 2.5 mm (NTU) (p=0.002, p<0.001, p<0.001). And average resting-Valsalva ratio were 0.76, 0.90, 0.71 (grades I, II, III) and 0.26 (NTU), which showed significant differences from all grades (p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001). Conclusions It is suggested that the standing position and Valsalva maneuver during CDU could improve diagnostic ability for varicocele. Resting-Valsalva ratio in the standing position could be a new diagnostic index for varicocele diagnosis using CDU.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/1b/kju-56-144.PMC4325119.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4341248", "abstract": "Introduction: Paragangliomas are mostly localized in the adrenal medulla and they are usually pheochromocytomas, derived from the neural crest, but otherwise mesenteric paragangliomas are extremely rare tumors. Case Presentation: In this article we represent a 59-year-old female with an abdominal mass and pain due to mesenteric paraganglioma. Conclusions: Paragangliomas can occur as mesenteric tumors; usually, preoperative accurate diagnosis is not possible with imaging methods and precise diagnosis is possible after histological evaluation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d3/c1/ircmj-16-12-16837.PMC4341248.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3236478", "abstract": "This study explores the effects of month of birth (a proxy for early-life environmental influences) on the chances of survival to age 100. Months of birth for 1,574 validated centenarians born in the United States in 1880–1895 were compared to the same information obtained for centenarians' 10,885 shorter-lived siblings and 1,083 spouses. Comparison was conducted using a within-family analysis by the method of conditional logistic regression, which allows researchers to control for unobserved shared childhood or adulthood environment and common genetic background. It was found that months of birth have significant long-lasting effect on survival to age 100: siblings born in September–November have higher odds to become centenarians compared to siblings born in March. A similar month-of-birth pattern was found for centenarian spouses. These results support the idea of early-life programming of human aging and longevity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9d/a0/PMC3236478.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4066855", "abstract": "Obesity has become a pandemic threat in the latest 30 years. The trend of the prevalence of overweight and obesity has got an overall increase in every part of the world, regardless of ethnicity, life-style and social ties. High food intake, genetic, and sedentary have been related to obesity; it has been also hypothesized that gut microbiota could have an impact on the complex mechanism underlying the weight gain. This review aims to illustrate the actual literature about gut microbiota and its relation with obesity and to analyze the possible implications of factors such as diet and life-style onto the composition of gut microbiota, that can lead to overweight/obesity condition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/02/PMC4066855.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3065804", "abstract": "We mechanistically explored the effect of increased hydrophobicity of the polycation on the efficacy and specificity of gene delivery in mice. N-Alkylated linear PEIs with varying alkyl chain lengths and extent of substitution were synthesized and characterized by biophysical methods. Their in vivo transfection efficiency, specificity, and biodistribution were investigated. N-Ethylation improves the in vivo efficacy of gene expression in the mouse lung 26-fold relative to the parent polycation and more than quadruples the ratio of expression in the lung to that in all other organs. N-Propyl-PEI was the best performer in the liver and heart (581- and 3.5-fold enhancements, resp.) while N-octyl-PEI improved expression in the kidneys over the parent polymer 221-fold. As these enhancements in gene expression occur without changing the plasmid biodistribution, alkylation does not alter the cellular uptake but rather enhances transfection subsequent to cellular uptake.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/14/PMC3065804.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4525455", "abstract": "Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in both humans and dogs. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) accounts for a large number of these cases, reported to be the third most common form of cardiac disease in humans and the second most common in dogs. In human studies of DCM there are more than 50 genetic loci associated with the disease. Despite canine DCM having similar disease progression to human DCM studies into the genetic basis of canine DCM lag far behind those of human DCM. In this review the aetiology, epidemiology, and clinical characteristics of canine DCM are examined, along with highlighting possible different subtypes of canine DCM and their potential relevance to human DCM. Finally the current position of genetic research into canine and human DCM, including the genetic loci, is identified and the reasons many studies may have failed to find a genetic association with canine DCM are reviewed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/36/75/PMC4525455.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC59615", "abstract": "The cornerstone in clinical evidence of the relative efficacy of thienopyridines (clopidogrel, ticlopidine) versus aspirin in the secondary prevention of vascular disease is the Clopidogrel versus Aspirin in Patients at Risk of Ischaemic Events trial. This trial showed a modest benefit in the reduction of vascular events by clopidogrel. The results differed according to qualifying disorder: myocardial infarction, -3.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/da/15/PMC59615.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3881323", "abstract": "Adipose tissue, which was once viewed as a simple organ for storage of triglycerides, is now considered an important endocrine organ. Abnormal adipose tissue mass is associated with defects in endocrine and metabolic functions which are the underlying causes of the metabolic syndrome. Many adipokines, hormones secreted by adipose tissue, regulate cells from the immune system. Interestingly, most of these adipokines are proinflammatory mediators, which increase dramatically in the obese state and are believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance. Drugs that target peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory effects in animal models of diabetes. These findings, and the link between inflammation and the metabolic syndrome, will be reviewed here.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/40/dmj-37-395.PMC3881323.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1933235", "abstract": "A recurring task in the analysis of mass genome annotation data from high-throughput technologies is the identification of peaks or clusters in a noisy signal profile. Examples of such applications are the definition of promoters on the basis of transcription start site profiles, the mapping of transcription factor binding sites based on ChIP-chip data and the identification of quantitative trait loci (QTL) from whole genome SNP profiles. Input to such an analysis is a set of genome coordinates associated with counts or intensities. The output consists of a discrete number of peaks with respective volumes, extensions and center positions. We have developed for this purpose a flexible one-dimensional clustering tool, called MADAP, which we make available as a web server and as standalone program. A set of parameters enables the user to customize the procedure to a specific problem. The web server, which returns results in textual and graphical form, is useful for small to medium-scale applications, as well as for evaluation and parameter tuning in view of large-scale applications, requiring a local installation. The program written in C++ can be freely downloaded from ftp://ftp.epd.unil.ch/pub/software/unix/madap. The MADAP web server can be accessed at http://www.isrec.isb-sib.ch/madap/.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/d1/gkm343.PMC1933235.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2943180", "abstract": "Aim: To analyze randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) to determine whether the patients who complete PR form a representative subset of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) target population and to discuss what impact this may have for the generalizability and implementation of PR in practice. Material and methods: A review of 26 RCTs included in a Cochrane Review 2007. We analyzed the selection at three different levels: 1) sampling; 2) inclusion and exclusion; 3) and dropout. Results: Of 26 studies only 3 (12", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5f/0a/PMC2943180.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3204053", "abstract": "The mechanisms by which cells organize and segregate their chromosomes have been under close scrutiny for years, and significant progress has been made in understanding how mitosis works. Modern cell biology has identified most of the molecules that underlie mitotic spindle function, but the ways in which they are organized and controlled to make an effective and accurate cellular machine are exciting subjects for future study.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/18/df/3933.PMC3204053.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3315887", "abstract": "We review recent work on emotional memory enhancement in older adults and patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer dementia (AD) and evaluate the viability of incorporating emotional components into cognitive rehabilitation for these groups. First, we identify converging evidence regarding the effects of emotional valence on working memory in healthy aging. Second, we introduce work that suggests a more complex role for emotional memory enhancement in aging and identify a model capable of unifying disparate research findings. Third, we survey the neuroimaging literature for evidence of a special role for the amygdala in MCI and early AD in emotional memory enhancement. Finally, we assess the theoretical feasibility of incorporating emotional content into cognitive rehabilitation given all available evidence.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f9/07/PMC3315887.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3426251", "abstract": "Monitoring air pollution including the contents of VOC, O3, NO2, and dusts has attracted a lot of interest in addition to the monitoring of water contamination because it affects directly to the quality of living conditions. Most of the current air pollution monitoring stations use the expensive and bulky instruments and are only installed in the very limited area. To bring the information of the air and water quality to the public in real time, it is important to construct portable monitoring systems and distribute them close to our everyday living places. In this work, we have constructed a low-cost portable RF sensor system by using 400 MHz transceiver to achieve this goal. Accuracy of the measurement was comparable to the ones used in the expensive and bulky commercial air pollution forecast systems.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/a8/PMC3426251.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4535364", "abstract": "A computational method is developed to carry out explicit solvent simulations of complex molecular systems under conditions of constant pH. In constant-pH simulations, preidentified ionizable sites are allowed to spontaneously protonate and deprotonate as a function of time in response to the environment and the imposed pH. The method, based on a hybrid scheme originally proposed by H. A. Stern (J. Chem. Phys.2007, 126, 164112), consists of carrying out short nonequilibrium molecular dynamics (neMD) switching trajectories to generate physically plausible configurations with changed protonation states that are subsequently accepted or rejected according to a Metropolis Monte Carlo (MC) criterion. To ensure microscopic detailed balance arising from such nonequilibrium switches, the atomic momenta are altered according to the symmetric two-ends momentum reversal prescription. To achieve higher efficiency, the original neMD–MC scheme is separated into two steps, reducing the need for generating a large number of unproductive and costly nonequilibrium trajectories. In the first step, the protonation state of a site is randomly attributed via a Metropolis MC process on the basis of an intrinsic pKa; an attempted nonequilibrium switch is generated only if this change in protonation state is accepted. This hybrid two-step inherent pKa neMD–MC simulation method is tested with single amino acids in solution (Asp, Glu, and His) and then applied to turkey ovomucoid third domain and hen egg-white lysozyme. Because of the simple linear increase in the computational cost relative to the number of titratable sites, the present method is naturally able to treat extremely large systems.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/27/25/PMC4535364.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4434801", "abstract": "The amounts of carbon allocated to the fungal partner in ectomycorrhizal associations can vary substantially depending on the plant growth and the soil nutrient conditions, and the fungus may frequently be confronted with limitations in carbon. We used chemical analysis and transcriptome profiling to examine the physiological response of the ectomycorrhizal fungus Paxillus involutus to carbon starvation during axenic cultivation. Carbon starvation induced a decrease in the biomass. Concomitantly, ammonium, cell wall material (chitin) and proteolytic enzymes were released into the medium, which suggest autolysis. Compared with the transcriptome of actively growing hyphae, about 45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/35/fiv027.PMC4434801.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5010850", "abstract": "Objective(s): Non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (NSHL) is a common disorder affecting approximately 1 in 500 newborns. This type of hearing loss is extremely heterogeneous and includes over 100 loci. Mutations in the GJB2 gene have been implicated in about half of autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) cases, making this the most common cause of ARNSHL. For the latter form of deafness, most frequent genes proposed include GJB2, SLC26A4, MYO15A, OTOF, and CDH23 worldwide. Materials and Methods: The aim of the present study was to define the role and frequency of MYO15A gene mutation in Iranian families. In this study 30 Iranian families were enrolled with over three deaf children and negative for GJB2. Then linkage analysis was performed by six DFNB3 short tandem repeat markers. Following that, mutation detection accomplished using DNA sequencing. Results: One family (3.33", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/5b/IJBMS-19-772.PMC5010850.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3837642", "abstract": "In mainland China, most avian influenza A(H7N9) cases in the spring of 2013 were reported through the pneumonia of unknown etiology (PUE) surveillance system. To understand the role of possible underreporting and surveillance bias in assessing the epidemiology of subtype H7N9 cases and the effect of live-poultry market closures, we examined all PUE cases reported from 2004 through May 3, 2013. Historically, the PUE system was underused, reporting was inconsistent, and PUE reporting was biased toward A(H7N9)-affected provinces, with sparse data from unaffected provinces; however, we found no evidence that the older ages of persons with A(H7N9) resulted from surveillance bias. The absolute number and the proportion of PUE cases confirmed to be A(H7N9) declined after live-poultry market closures (p<0.001), indicating that market closures might have positively affected outbreak control. In China, PUE surveillance needs to be improved.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/47/PMC3837642.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4330249", "abstract": "Cancer is the most dreaded disease in human and also major health problem worldwide. Despite its high occurrence, the exact molecular mechanisms of the development and progression are not fully understood. The existing cancer therapy based on allopathic medicine is expensive, exhibits side effects; and may also alter the normal functioning of genes. Thus, a non-toxic and effective mode of treatment is needed to control cancer development and progression. Some medicinal plants offer a safe, effective and affordable remedy to control the cancer progression. Nimbolide, a limnoid derived from the neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves and flowers of neem, is widely used in traditional medical practices for treating various human diseases. Nimbolide exhibits several pharmacological effects among which its anticancer activity is the most promising. The previous studies carried out over the decades have shown that nimbolide inhibits cell proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells. This review highlights the current knowledge on the molecular targets that contribute to the observed anticancer activity of nimbolide related to induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest; and inhibition of signaling pathways related to cancer progression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/25/3b/gni-12-156.PMC4330249.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2933128", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION: Obesity causes alterations in cardiac autonomic function. However, there are scarce and conflicting data on this function with regard to heart rate variability in obese children. OBJECTIVE: To compare the autonomic function of obese and eutrophic children by analyzing heart rate variability. METHODS: One hundred twenty-one children (57 male and 64 female) aged 8 to 12 years were distributed into two groups based on nutritional status [obese (n  =  56) and eutrophic (ideal weight range; n  =  65) according to the body mass index reference for gender and age]. For the analysis of heart rate variability, heart rates were recorded beat by beat as the children rested in the dorsal (prone) position for 20 minutes. Heart rate variability analysis was carried out using linear approaches in the domains of frequency and time. Either Student's t-test or the Mann-Whitney U-test was applied to compare variables between groups. Statistical significance was set at 5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1f/70/cln-65-789.PMC2933128.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5283072", "abstract": "Purpose The aims of this study were to estimate the incidence of atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter (AF), to assess the presence of provoking factors and risk factors for stroke and systemic embolism, and to determine the type of AF in patients with first-diagnosed AF. Patients and methods This cohort study was performed in northern Sweden between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2012. Diagnosis registries were searched for the International Classification of Diseases-10 code for AF (I48) to identify cases of incident AF. All AF diagnoses were electrocardiogram-verified. Data pertaining to provoking factors, type of AF and presence of risk factors for stroke and systemic embolism according to the CHA2DS2-VASc score were obtained from medical records. Results The incidence of AF in the entire population was 4.0 per 1,000 person-years. The incidence was 27.5 per 1,000 person-years in patients aged ≥80 years. A total of 21", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/54/73/clep-9-053.PMC5283072.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2732144", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE There are conflicting data regarding relationships of systemic biomarkers of inflammation, hemostasis, and homocysteine with diabetic retinopathy. We examined these relationships in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 921 participants with diabetes were included. Diabetic retinopathy was graded from retinal photographs. We defined two outcomes: any diabetic retinopathy and vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy (severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy or worse). Systemic markers analyzed were C-reactive protein, homocysteine, fibrinogen, plasmin-α2-antiplasmin complex (PAP), interleukin-6, d-dimer, factor VIII, serum creatinine, and urinary albumin-to-creatinine (UAC) ratio. RESULTS Prevalence of diabetic retinopathy was 33.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/3e/zdc1704.PMC2732144.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2644578", "abstract": "The onset of vision occurs when neural circuits in the visual cortex are immature, lacking the full complement of connections and the response selectivity that defines functional maturity. Direction selective responses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of early visual deprivation, but how stimulus driven neural activity guides the emergence of cortical direction selectivity remains unclear. To explore this issue we developed a novel motion training paradigm that allowed us to monitor the impact of experience on the development of direction selective responses in visually naïve ferrets. Using intrinsic signal imaging techniques we found that training with a single axis of motion induced the rapid emergence of direction columns that were confined to cortical regions preferentially activated by the training stimulus. Using 2-photon calcium imaging techniques, we found that single neurons in visually naïve animals exhibited weak directional biases and lacked the strong local coherence in the spatial organization of direction preference that was evident in mature animals. Training with a moving stimulus, but not with a flashed stimulus, strengthened the direction selective responses of individual neurons and preferentially reversed the direction biases of neurons that deviated from their neighbors. Both effects contributed to an increase in local coherence. We conclude that early experience with moving visual stimuli drives the rapid emergence of direction selective responses in visual cortex.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d6/29/PMC2644578.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2876743", "abstract": "To improve pulsed-field gel electrophoresis–based strain discrimination of 76 Salmonella Enteritidis strains, we evaluated 6 macro-restriction endonucleases, separately and in various combinations. One 3-enzyme subset, SfiI/PacI/NotI, was highly discriminatory. Five different indices, including the Simpson diversity index, supported this 3-enzyme combination for improved differentiation of S. Enteritidis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/15/PMC2876743.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3329857", "abstract": " Objective. To describe the intrahepatic bile duct transposition (anatomical variation occurring in intrahepatic ducts) and to determine the frequency of this variation. Material and Methods. The researches were performed randomly on 100 livers of adults, both sexes. Main research methods were anatomical macrodissection. As a criterion for determination of variations in some parts of bile tree, we used the classification of Segmentatio hepatis according to Couinaud (1957) according to Terminologia Anatomica, Thieme Stuugart: Federative Committee on Anatomical Terminology, 1988. Results. Intrahepatic transposition of bile ducts was found in two cases (2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3e/f6/PMC3329857.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3996407", "abstract": " [Purpose] The aim of the present study was to examine whether mirror therapy in conjunction with FES in stroke patients can improve gait ability. [Subjects] This study was conducted with 30 subjects who were diagnosed with hemiparesis due to stroke. [Methods] Experimental group I contained 10 subjects who received mirror therapy in conjunction with functional electrical stimulation, experimental group II contained 10 subjects who received mirror therapy, and the control group contained 10 subjects who received a sham therapy. A gait analysis was performed using a three-dimensional motion capture system, which was a real-time tracking device that delivers data in an infrared mode via reflective markers using six cameras. [Results] The results showed a significant difference in gait velocity between groups after the experiment, and post hoc analysis revealed significant differences between experimental group I and the control group and between experimental group II and the control group, respectively. There were also significant differences in step length and stride length between the groups after the experiment, and post hoc analysis revealed significant differences between experimental group I and control group. [Conclusion] The present study showed that mirror therapy in conjunction with FES is more effective for improving gait ability than mirror therapy alone.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/3c/jpts-26-497.PMC3996407.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5298303", "abstract": "Cervical cancer (CC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death and a major public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa. This heavy burden parallels that of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, which increases the risk of developing CC. Despite the progressive reduction of HIV prevalence in the past decade, the CC incidence and mortality rates in sub-Saharan Africa remain high. The heterogeneity of the distribution of the two diseases in the African continent, together with the different availability of human and material resources, stands in the way of finding an appropriate screening strategy. The lack of high-quality evidence on the prevention of CC for HIV-positive women, which is necessary for the implementation of efficient screening and treatment strategies, results in the absence of a clearly defined program, which is responsible for the low screening uptake and high mortality rates in sub-Saharan Africa. By taking advantage of the HIV-positive women’s frequent access to health facilities, one way to increase the CC screening coverage rates would be by providing integrated HIV and screening services within the same infrastructure. With the increasing availability of cost-effective methods, screening is becoming more and more available to women who have limited access to health care. Moreover, the introduction of point-of-care technologies for human papillomavirus testing and the subsequent implementation of screen-and-treat strategies, by reducing the number of clinical appointments and, in the long term, the loss to follow-up rates, open up new opportunities for all women, regardless of their HIV status. The purpose of this review is to provide an insight into the different screening practices for CC in order to help define one that is adapted to the resources and necessities of HIV-positive women living in middle-to-low income countries.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/b2/ijwh-9-069.PMC5298303.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2896902", "abstract": "HIV and AIDS, in resource-limited settings, contribute to increased maternal and infant mortality where such vital indicators are already high. In these settings, babies born to HIV-positive women continue to have added risks of acquiring HIV infection and dying from it before their fifth birthdays if no interventions are employed. Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) is an international initiative whose implications within the local context need to be known. An operational research approach was adopted to study the demand and adherence of key components within the PMTCT Programme among women in rural Malawi. This study was carried out at Malamulo SDA Hospital in rural Malawi and employed the mixture of both quantitative and qualitative approaches. While the introduction of innovative policies in antenatal care (ANC) that has positive impact particularly on marginalised women's access to the services, negative effects are also inevitable. Marginalised women in resource-poor settings fail to deliver at the health facility due to lack of transportation, economic difficulties, gender inequalities, tradition and negative attitude of health workers. Integration of HIV testing and opt-out testing in ANC coupled with the introduction of free maternal care resulted in more women accessing maternal services and PMTCT services. It is as a result of this that institutional delivery facilitates increased adherence to antiretroviral prophylaxis and is supported by both women and the communities. The paper summarises the research conducted and elaborates on how it contributed to actions to improve staff attitude, increase male involvement in reproductive health care and discussions on how available resources can be maximised.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/64/GHA-3-1882.PMC2896902.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2760353", "abstract": "Microarray analysis reaches increasing popularity during the investigation of prognostic gene clusters in oncology. The standardisation of technical procedures will be essential to compare various datasets produced by different research groups. In several projects the amount of available tissue is limited. In such cases the preamplification of RNA might be necessary prior to microarray hybridisation. To evaluate the comparability of microarray results generated either by amplified or non amplified RNA we isolated RNA from colorectal cancer samples (stage UICC IV) following tumour tissue enrichment by macroscopic manual dissection (CMD). One part of the RNA was directly labelled and hybridised to GeneChips (HG-U133A, Affymetrix), the other part of the RNA was amplified according to the “Eberwine” protocol and was then hybridised to the microarrays. During unsupervised hierarchical clustering the samples were divided in groups regarding the RNA pre-treatment and 5.726 differentially expressed genes were identified. Using independent microarray data of 31 amplified vs. 24 non amplified RNA samples from colon carcinomas (stage UICC III) in a set of 50 predictive genes we validated the amplification bias. In conclusion microarray data resulting from different pre-processing regarding RNA pre-amplification can not be compared within one analysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/91/c8/PMC2760353.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3693723", "abstract": "Purpose We evaluated the higher levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) secreted by the LoVo human colon carcinoma cells in a medium containing anticancer drugs. Drug-resistant LoVo cells were analyzed by subcutaneously xenotransplanting them into mice. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the drug-resistant cells isolated in this study were cancer-initiating cells, known also as cancer stem cells (CSCs). Methods The production of CEA was investigated in LoVo cells that were cultured with 0–10 mM of anticancer drugs, and we evaluated the increase in CEA production by the LoVo cells that were stimulated by anticancer drug treatment. The expression of several CSC markers in LoVo cells treated with anticancer drugs was also evaluated. Following anticancer drug treatment, LoVo cells were injected subcutaneously into the flanks of severe combined immunodeficiency mice in order to evaluate the CSC fraction. Results Production of CEA by LoVo cells was stimulated by the addition of anticancer drugs. Drug-resistant LoVo cells expressed lower levels of CSC markers, and LoVo cells treated with any of the anticancer drugs tested did not generate tumors within 8 weeks from when the cells were injected subcutaneously into severe combined immunodeficiency mice. These results suggest that the drug-resistant LoVo cells have a smaller population of CSCs than the untreated LoVo cells. Conclusion Production of CEA by LoVo cells can be stimulated by the addition of anticancer drugs. The drug-resistant subpopulation of LoVo colon cancer cells could stimulate the production of CEA, but these cells did not act as CSCs in in vivo tumor generation experiments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/10/PMC3693723.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3825506", "abstract": "Monocyte-chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), also known as CCL2, is a potent chemoattractant of T cells and monocytes, involved in inflammatory and angio-proliferative brain and retinal diseases. Higher expression of MCP-1 is observed in metastatic tumors. Unusual levels of MCP-1 in the brain may be correlated with autism. Immunochemistry where atomic force microscope (AFM) tips functionalized with appropriate antibodies against MCP-1 are used could in principle support medical diagnostics. Useful signals from single molecule experiments may be generated if interaction forces are large enough. The chemokine-antibody unbinding force depends on a relative motion of the interacting fragments of the complex. In this paper the stability of the medically important MCP-1- immunoglobulin G antibody Fab fragment complex has been studied using steered molecular dynamics (SMD) computer simulations with the aim to model possible arrangements of nano-diagnostics experiments. Using SMD we confirm that molecular recognition in MCP1-IgG is based mainly on six pairs of residues: Glu39A - Arg98H, Lys56A - Asp52H, Asp65A - Arg32L, Asp68A - Arg32L, Thr32A - Glu55L, Gln61A - Tyr33H. The minimum external force required for mechanical dissociation of the complex depends on a direction of the force. The pulling of the MCP-1 antigen in the directions parallel to the antigen-antibody contact plane requires forces about 20 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/76/894_2013_Article_1972.PMC3825506.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4568641", "abstract": "Necrotic pancreatic collections are difficult to treat endoscopically due to a concern for inadequate drainage of the necrotic debris. Multiple techniques including the use of metallic stents, endoscopic necrosectomy and use of hybrid approaches utilizing endoscopic and percutaneous approaches have been described for the management of pancreatic necrotic collections. Furthermore, multiple transluminal gateway technique has been used to create endosonography guided multiple tracts to drain a perigastric or periduodenal collection. We hereby report about a patient with walled off necrosis resulting as a complication of alcohol related acute pancreatitis that was drained using endoscopic ultrasound-guided approach. However, a spontaneous cystoduodenal fistula was used to create another tract and place transmural stents resulting in a quick resolution of symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/e0/EUS-4-257.PMC4568641.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2692110", "abstract": "The prevalence of asthma in adolescents markedly varies between different localities as found by the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) and this may be due to environmental factors. Although tobacco smoke exposure is related to an increase in the prevalence of asthma, there is lack of information on that respect in children from developing countries, where active tobacco smoking usually starts early in adolescence. This study was undertaken to assess the effect of tobacco smoking on the prevalence of asthma symptoms in a random sample of 4738 adolescents aged 13.4 ± 1.05 years who responded the ISAAC video questionnaires plus questions on tobacco smoking. The prevalence of tobacco smoking in the last 12 months was 16.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/50/PMC2692110.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5059370", "abstract": "We evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of tyrosol (Tyr) on endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) in rats. EIU was induced in male Lewis rats by subcutaneous injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Tyr (10, 50 or 100 mg/kg) was intravenously injected 2 hr before, simultaneously and 2 hr after LPS injection. The aqueous humor (AqH) was collected 24 hr after LPS injection; the infiltrating cell number, protein concentration, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, prostaglandin (PG)-E2 and nitric oxide (NO) levels were determined. Histopathologic examination and immunohistochemical studies for nuclear factor (NF)-κB, inhibitor of κB (IκB)-α, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) in the iris–ciliary body (ICB) were performed at 3 or 24 hr after LPS injection. To further clarify the anti-inflammatory effects, RAW264.7 macrophages were stimulated with LPS in the presence or absence of Tyr. Tyr reduced, in a dose-dependent manner, the infiltrating cell number, protein concentration, and TNF-α, PGE2 and NO levels in AqH and improved histopathologic scores of EIU. Tyr also inhibited LPS-induced COX-2 and iNOS expression, IκB-α degradation and nuclear translocation of activated NF-κB in ICB. Tyr significantly suppressed inflammatory mediator production in the culture medium and COX-2 and iNOS expression and activated NF-κB translocation in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. These results suggest that Tyr suppresses ocular inflammation of EIU by inhibiting NF-κB activation and subsequent proinflammatory mediator production.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2d/b9/jvms-78-1429.PMC5059370.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3672537", "abstract": "Stress hyperglycemia is common in critically ill patients and appears to be a marker of disease severity. Furthermore, both the admission as well as the mean glucose level during the hospital stay is strongly associated with patient outcomes. Clinicians, researchers and policy makers have assumed this association to be causal with the widespread adoption of protocols and programs for tight in-hospital glycemic control. However, a critical appraisal of the literature has demonstrated that attempts at tight glycemic control in both ICU and non-ICU patients do not improve health care outcomes. We suggest that hyperglycemia and insulin resistance in the setting of acute illness is an evolutionarily preserved adaptive responsive that increases the host's chances of survival. Furthermore, attempts to interfere with this exceedingly complex multi-system adaptive response may be harmful. This paper reviews the pathophysiology of stress hyperglycemia and insulin resistance and the protective role of stress hyperglycemia during acute illness.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/31/04/PMC3672537.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3249768", "abstract": "BACKGROUND: This study aimed to examine the association of state and trait anxiety with fear of childbirth to explore whether there was any support for the hypothesis that state and trait anxiety are risk factors for the fear of childbirth or not. METHODS: In this prospective study, 156 pregnant women referred to the health centers of Qom. The study samples selected using simple random sampling method. Anxiety and fear of the childbirth in nulliparous women were measured using Spielberger's state-trait anxiety inventory and childbirth attitudes questionnaire (CAQ) at gestational age of 28 and 38 weeks respectively. The data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, t-test, logistic regression and software SPSS16. RESULTS: Pearson correlation test indicated a positive and statistically significant association between fear of childbirth scores and state and trait anxiety (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that state and trait anxiety at gestational age of week 28th increased the risk of fear of childbirth (odds ratio [OR] 2.7, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/86/ac/IJNMR-16-169.PMC3249768.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4989075", "abstract": "Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by chronical anovulation and hyperandrogenism which may be present in a different degree of severity. Insulin-resistance and hyperinsulinemia are the main physiopathological basis of this syndrome and the failure of inositol-mediated signaling may concur to them. Myo (MI) and D-chiro-inositol (DCI), the most studied inositol isoforms, are classified as insulin sensitizers. In form of glycans, DCI-phosphoglycan and MI-phosphoglycan control key enzymes were involved in glucose and lipid metabolism. In form of phosphoinositides, they play an important role as second messengers in several cellular biological functions. Considering the key role played by insulin-resistance and androgen excess in PCOS patients, the insulin-sensitizing effects of both MI and DCI were tested in order to ameliorate symptoms and signs of this syndrome, including the possibility to restore patients' fertility. Accumulating evidence suggests that both isoforms of inositol are effective in improving ovarian function and metabolism in patients with PCOS, although MI showed the most marked effect on the metabolic profile, whereas DCI reduced hyperandrogenism better. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on inositol signaling and correlate data on biological functions of these multifaceted molecules, in view of a rational use for the therapy in women with PCOS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3e/6a/PMC4989075.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3945244", "abstract": "The purpose of this study has been to investigate the effects of certain substances frequently used in alimentation on the color stability of the composite resin restorative materials. The research hypothesis was that color stability of the composite resin is affected by the type of composite material used and by the polishing procedure. 14 samples of 5X15X2mm have been prepared from seven universal light curing restorative composite resins. The materials have manipulated and cured using LA 500 Blue Light lamp. A first color determination was done before the introduction of the samples in the dyeing agent with the help of an Easy Shade device. The samples have been splited into two lots each with seven samples. The samples from the first lot have been sectioned into three equal segments. The samples from the second lot have also been sectioned into three equal segments, and in addition to the previous group, their exterior surfaces were processed with a diamond burr. For each type of composite we have introduced a sample in one of the three chosen dyes: red alimentary colorant, coffee and red wine. The color of the samples has been determined again using the Vita Easy Shade device. From clinical point of view the results of this study shows that there are three important factors that matter when we talk about durable aesthetic results: the type of composite resin used for the restoration, the finishing and polishing procedures and the pacients’ alimentation habits. The composite resins with a good representation of the anorganic structure are easier to be polished, therefore they have only slight color modifications. Using plastic matrixes for shaping the exterior surface of the restoration is the best solution for obtaining a very smooth surface. The most significant color modifications have been done by the red wine. Coffee and to a smaller extent the red alimentary colorant have modified the color of the restoration material in a smaller degree.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/e6/PMC3945244.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4381905", "abstract": "A 52-year-old woman presented with an 8-month history of epigastric pain, nausea, and weight loss. One year before, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. During the postoperative chemotherapy, she developed epigastric pain and nausea. As a result, she gradually lost 12 kg of her body weight. We performed upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which revealed mild erosive gastritis. After the treatment with a proton pump inhibitor, her symptoms persisted. Before the admission, mild hypercalcemia was pointed out. Fluid replacement didn’t improve hypercalcemia. We assessed adrenocortical function, which showed that her serum cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone were decreased. Through loading tests, we established diagnosis of isolated adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency. She was treated with hydrocortisone. Soon after the treatment, her serum calcium level returned to normal and her symptoms improved. In a case of hypercalcemia unresponsive to fluid replacement, we recommend ruling out adrenal insufficiency after excluding more common diseases which induce hypercalcemia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/02/imcrj-8-077.PMC4381905.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2707539", "abstract": "Introduction Provide an insight into the on-going work in the Barcelona Demonstration Site of the European 6th framework EMILIA project (Empowerment of mental illness service users: Lifelong learning, integration and empowerment). Determine how this work bridges the gap between mental health users and the mental health institution. Aim To demonstrate how the methodology of life long learning is used to train a group of mental health service users to become Experts by Experience (EbE). The EbE is a new professionally recognised working profile within the psychiatric hospital which aims to offer a better understanding of the mental health institution to mental health service users; informing them about hospital layout and procedures; strengthening the relationship between service users and professionals; stimulating the relationships between the service user and their social network friends and family. This act of sharing experience and knowledge, and passing it on from one user to another is vital to give continuity to the lifelong learning process. Methodology The EbE completes a dynamic, interactive training programme where personal strengths, recovery, people skills, learning more about the workings of the mental health institutions and how to encourage others to work towards empowerment. All users complete an average of 36 h of preparative training before embarking on the 20 h EbE training course. Conclusion The traditional line of sanitary care in mental health institutions has sometimes ignored the importance of recording the knowledge that users can give. By creating the profile of EbE within the mental hospital, this knowledge is guaranteed to transcend from one user to another and hence, not only benefiting the recovery process for the users involved, but also improving the care given by the institutions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/16/91/PMC2707539.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5330696", "abstract": "Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition wherein there is an ectopic implantation of the uterine endometrial tissue. While several diagnostic modalities are described for the condition, laparoscopy remains the gold standard. There is still an undiscovered area to diagnose colonic endometriosis at an earlier stage. We present a case report of a reproductive age woman with cyclical rectal bleeding diagnosed with colonic endometriosis with colonoscopy and biopsy using saline injection lift and sampling technique. We in our report try to impress the fact that this differential should always be considered in the appropriate clinical setting, especially in women of childbearing age and in such cases, deeper tissue sampling techniques should be sought for, given better diagnostic yield. This may be clinically important given that it may aid in earlier diagnosis and thereby early initiation of appropriate therapy before the disease takes a complicated route. It may also be helpful in avoiding unnecessary surgery, along with the morbidity, complications and costs associated with same.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2e/a4/gr-10-059.PMC5330696.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3667634", "abstract": "Sanitary constraints of raising turkey in north-west Benin were studied by using a survey and Haemagglutination Inhibition Test (HIT) to detect antibodies of Newcastle Disease (ND) and Avian Influenza (AI). We tested 85 serums from 7- to 24-month-old turkeys raised in 19 farms. ND prevalence rate was 54", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e0/3d/PMC3667634.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4540889", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this review was to present the available evidence for the effect of McConnell taping on knee biomechanics in individuals with anterior knee pain. [Methods] The PubMed, Medline, Cinahl, SPORTDiscus, PEDro and ScienceDirect electronic databases were searched from inception until September 2014. Experimental research on knee biomechanical or EMG outcomes of McConnell taping compared with no tape or placebo tape were included. Two reviewers completed the searches, selected the full text articles, and assessed the risk of bias of eligible studies. Authors were contacted for missing data. [Results] Eight heterogeneous studies with a total sample of 220 were included in this review. All of the studies had a moderate to low risk of bias. Pooling of data was possible for three outcomes: average knee extensor moment, average VMO/VL ratio and average VMO-VL onset timing. None of these outcomes revealed significant differences. [Conclusion] The evidence is currently insufficient to justify routine use of the McConnell taping technique in the treatment of anterior knee pain. There is a need for more evidence on the aetiological pathways of anterior knee pain, level one evidence, and studies investigating other potential mechanisms of McConnell taping.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/7b/jpts-27-2395.PMC4540889.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4499086", "abstract": "Background: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in diabetes type 2 and this vitamin may be related to insulin action. This randomized controlled trial study was done to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on glucose control and insulin resistance in patients with diabetes type 2. Methods: Participants of this randomized clinical trial study consisted of 28 patients with type 2 diabetes who received 100 microgram (4000 IU) vitamin D and 30 diabetic patients who received placebo for 2 months between September 2012 and February 2013. The effect of vitamin D on glucose control was assessed by measuring HbA1c and insulin resistance as HOMA-IR at the baseline and the end of the intervention. Results: The results showed a significant decrease in HbA1c (from 7.29 ± 0.22 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4a/f1/PMC4499086.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4465843", "abstract": "There is a continuing interest in the analysis of gene architecture and gene expression to determine the relationship that may exist. Advances in high-quality sequencing technologies and large-scale resource datasets have increased the understanding of relationships and cross-referencing of expression data to the large genome data. Although a negative correlation between expression level and gene (especially transcript) length has been generally accepted, there have been some conflicting results arising from the literature concerning the impacts of different regions of genes, and the underlying reason is not well understood. The research aims to apply quantile regression techniques for statistical analysis of coding and noncoding sequence length and gene expression data in the plant, Arabidopsis thaliana, and fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, to determine if a relationship exists and if there is any variation or similarities between these species. The quantile regression analysis found that the coding sequence length and gene expression correlations varied, and similarities emerged for the noncoding sequence length (5′ and 3′ UTRs) between animal and plant species. In conclusion, the information described in this study provides the basis for further exploration into gene regulation with regard to coding and noncoding sequence length.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b6/95/PMC4465843.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3387593", "abstract": "The study by Dr Peiniger and colleagues in a recent issue of Critical Care indicates that transfusion strategies using an early and more balanced ratio between fresh frozen plasma and red blood cell transfusions provide a survival benefit in patients with acute traumatic coagulopathy requiring massive transfusion within the first 24 hours of hospitalization. However, this topic has never been explored in depth in patients with concomitant severe traumatic brain injury. While the study is retrospective and certainly not a substitute for a well-designed prospective trial, the authors nonetheless should be commended for addressing this issue with their current work. Currently, the optimum fluid resuscitation paradigm for patients with both severe traumatic brain injury and other injuries requiring significant volume resuscitation is not clear.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f3/ba/PMC3387593.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2831048", "abstract": "Dissemination of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing in the United States coincided with an increasing incidence of prostate cancer, a shift to earlier stage disease at diagnosis, and decreasing prostate cancer mortality. We compared PSA screening performance with respect to prostate cancer detection in the US population vs in the Rotterdam section of the European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (ERSPC–Rotterdam). We developed a simulation model for prostate cancer and PSA screening for ERSPC–Rotterdam. This model was then adapted to the US population by replacing demography parameters with US-specific ones and the screening protocol with the frequency of PSA tests in the US population. We assumed that the natural progression of prostate cancer and the sensitivity of a PSA test followed by a biopsy were the same in the United States as in ERSPC–Rotterdam. The predicted prostate cancer incidence peak in the United States was then substantially higher than the observed prostate cancer incidence peak (13.3 vs 8.1 cases per 1000 man-years). However, the actual observed incidence was reproduced by assuming a substantially lower PSA test sensitivity in the United States than in ERSPC–Rotterdam. For example, for nonpalpable local- or regional-stage cancers (ie, stage T1M0), the estimates of PSA test sensitivity were 0.26 in the United States vs 0.94 in ERSPC–Rotterdam. We conclude that the efficacy of PSA screening in detecting prostate cancer was lower in the United States than in ERSPC–Rotterdam.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/01/1d/djp533.PMC2831048.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4351317", "abstract": "Most gastric cancers are caused by infection with the common human bacterial pathogen, Helicobacter pylori. It is now accepted that gastric cancer can be prevented and virtually eliminated by H. pylori eradication and this knowledge was responsible for country-wide H. pylori eradication combined with secondary cancer prevention for those with residual risk that was introduced in Japan in 2013. Korea is a high H. pylori prevalence and high gastric cancer incidence country and a good candidate for a gastric cancer elimination program. The presence of an H. pylori infection is now considered as an indication for treatment of the infection. However, antimicrobial drug resistance is common among H. pylori in Korea making effective therapy problematic. Country-wide studies of the local and regional antimicrobial resistance patterns are needed to choose the most appropriate therapies. H. pylori and gastric cancer eradication can be both efficient and cost effective making it possible and practical to make Korea H. pylori and gastric cancer free. There is no reason to delay.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/15/3b/kjim-30-133.PMC4351317.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4537623", "abstract": "Background: This study was undertaken to identify key elements for obtaining community interest and motivate them to support eliminate malaria in the places that malaria is no longer a perceived threat. Methods: Sequential explanatory mixed methods research design used to provide more comprehensive evidence research. A questionnaire was developed after reviewing the literature relating to community participation for malaria elimination and used to collect data from three native people, Iranian migrant and foreign immigrant groups. The variables included access to educational facilities, services, social support, social supporters, trust, and supportive norms were assessed. We also employed an ethnographic design involving: observation participant (PO), Key informant interviews (KIIs), and focus group discussions (FGDs). Results: The results revealed that predisposing, enabling and reinforcing factors had association with community involvement. Less than 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c9/2d/PMC4537623.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4430641", "abstract": "Vascular complications are major causes of morbidity and mortality in type 2 diabetes patients. Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and a lack of efficient antioxidant machinery, a result of hyperglycaemia, mainly contribute to this problem. Although advances in therapy have significantly reduced both morbidity and mortality in diabetic individuals, diabetes-associated vascular complications are still one of the most challenging health problems worldwide. New healing options are urgently needed as current therapeutics are failing to improve long-term outcomes. Particular effort has recently been devoted to understanding the functional relationship between chromatin structure regulation and the persistent change in gene expression which is driven by hyperglycaemia and which accounts for long-lasting diabetic complications. A detailed investigation into epigenetic chromatin modifications in type 2 diabetes is underway. This will be particularly useful in the design of mechanism-based therapeutics which interfere with long-lasting activating epigenetics and improve patient outcomes. We herein provide an overview of the most relevant mechanisms that account for hyperglycaemia-induced changes in chromatin structure; the most relevant mechanism is called “metabolic memory.”", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f2/81/PMC4430641.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3064039", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE In the emergency department, hyperglycemic patients are screened for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) via a urine dipstick. In this prospective study, we compared the test characteristics of point-of-care β-hydroxybutyrate (β-OHB) analysis with the urine dipstick. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Emergency-department patients with blood glucose ≥250 mg/dL had urine dipstick, chemistry panel, venous blood gas, and capillary β-OHB measurements. DKA was diagnosed according to American Diabetes Association criteria. RESULTS Of 516 hyperglycemic subjects, 54 had DKA. The urine dipstick had a sensitivity of 98.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/47/4c/852.PMC3064039.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3399340", "abstract": "P2X7 receptor-mediated purinergic signaling is a well-known mechanism involved in bone remodeling. The P2X7 receptor has been implicated in the pathophysiology of various bone and cartilage diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a widespread and complex chronic inflammatory disorder. The P2X7 receptor induces the release into the synovial fluid of the proinflammatory factors (e.g., interleukin-1β, prostaglandins, and proteases) responsible for the clinical symptoms of RA. Thus, the P2X7 receptor is emerging as a novel anti-inflammatory therapeutic target, and various selective P2X7 receptor antagonists are under clinical trials.  Extracellular ATP signaling acting through the P2X7 receptor is a complex and dynamic scenario, which varies over the course of inflammation. This signaling is partially modulated by the activity of ectonucleotidases, which degrade extracellular ATP to generate other active molecules such as adenosine or pyrophosphates. Recent evidence suggests differential extracellular metabolism of ATP during the resolution of inflammation to generate pyrophosphates. Extracellular pyrophosphate dampens proinflammatory signaling by promoting alternative macrophage activation.  Our paper shows that bisphosphonates are metabolically stable pyrophosphate analogues that are able to mimic the anti-inflammatory function of pyrophosphates. Bisphosphonates are arising per se as promising anti-inflammatory drugs to treat RA, and this therapy could be improved when administrated in combination with P2X7 receptor antagonists.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/22/c2/PMC3399340.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5080163", "abstract": "[Purpose] To clarify the characteristics of postural control in badminton players by examining their lower-limb muscle activity during upper-limb elevation. [Subjects and Methods] Fourteen badminton players and 14 non-players were studied. The subjects were instructed to perform an upper-limb elevation task in order to measure the activities of the biceps femoris and biceps brachii. [Results] When elevating the dominant hand, the mean biceps femoris integrated electromyogram showed markedly higher values in the player group, for the contralateral compared with the ipsilateral leg. Similarly, when elevating the dominant hand, the difference in the maximum integrated electromyogram response time between the ipsilateral and contralateral legs was significantly smaller in the players compared with non-players. [Conclusion] It may be possible to reduce the time needed to elevate the dominant hand by shifting lower-limb activity from the ipsilateral to the contralateral leg more quickly, while increasing the rate of rise in contralateral leg muscle activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/7d/jpts-28-2510.PMC5080163.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4534746", "abstract": "Organized hematoma is a rare complication that can develop following gamma knife radiosurgery (GKS) for cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Here, we describe 5 patients with growing organized hematomas that developed from completely obliterated AVMs several years after GKS. The patients were 15, 16, 30, 36, and 38 years old at the time of GKS, respectively, and 3 patients were female. Four AVMs were located in the lobe of the brain, and the remaining AVM were in the thalamus. Between 2-12 years after GKS, patients developed progressive symptoms such intractable headache or hemiparesis and enhancing mass lesions were identified. Follow-up visits revealed the slow expansion of the hematomas and surrounding edema. Steroids were ineffective, and thus surgery was performed. Histology revealed organized hematomas with a capsule, but there was no evidence of residual AVMs or vascular malformation. After surgery, the neurological symptoms of all patients improved and the surrounding edema resolved. However, the hematoma continued to expand and intraventricular hemorrhage developed in 1 patient whose hematoma was only partially removed. GKS for cerebral AVM can be complicated by growing, organized hematomas that develop after complete obliteration. Growing hematomas should be surgically evacuated if they are symptomatic. Radical resection of the hematoma capsule is also strongly recommended.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f1/32/jkns-58-83.PMC4534746.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3562578", "abstract": "Aptamers are single-stranded synthetic DNA- or RNA-based oligonucleotides that fold into various shapes to bind to a specific target, which includes proteins, metals, and molecules. Aptamers have high affinity and high specificity that are comparable to that of antibodies. They are obtained using iterative method, called (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment) SELEX and cell-based SELEX (cell-SELEX). Aptamers can be paired with recent advances in nanotechnology, microarray, microfluidics, and other technologies for applications in clinical medicine. One particular area that aptamers can shed a light on is biomarker discovery. Biomarkers are important in diagnosis and treatment of cancer. In this paper, we will describe ways in which aptamers can be used to discover biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and therapeutics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/c9/PMC3562578.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4462482", "abstract": "Aims To evaluate the impact of psychiatric comorbidities on the quality of life of early stage breast cancer subjects, in the first post-surgery week, the prevalence of those psychiatric disorders in this group, the correlation between pain and adjustment disorders and between the STAI-X1 (State Trait Anxiety Inventory 1) and BDI (Beck Depression Inventory) scales and the psychopathological findings. Patients and methods We conducted a clinical study at the Ocological Institute “Ioan Chiricuţă” Cluj-Napoca on a group of 56 patients (mean age 53.51 years old) with nonmetastatic breast cancer, who underwent surgical intervention in the week prior to the psychiatric evaluation. Patients received a complete psychiatric evaluation during their hospitalization. The STAI-X1, BDI, Numeric Rating Scale and QLQ 30 (Quality of Life Questionnaire 30) plus BR 23 (Breast 23) questionnaires were administered. Results The prevalence of adjustment disorders in the group was 28.58", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/76/6d/cm-86-48.PMC4462482.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3867613", "abstract": "Purpose To assess the results of arthroscopic adhesiolysis for arthrofibrosis of the knee and to investigate possible prognostic factors. Materials and Methods Among the patients who developed arthrofibrosis after knee joint surgery, 68 patients who underwent arthroscopic adhesiolysis and were available for at least one-year follow-up were evaluated with regard to the Lysholm knee score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective knee score, patient satisfaction, and range of motion (ROM) of the knee. The influence of possible prognostic factors including the cause of arthrofibrosis, duration of disease, and age of the patient on the postoperative ROM was analyzed. Results Sixty-one patients (89.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5f/87/ksrr-25-202.PMC3867613.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4260105", "abstract": "Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) has been used for endoscopic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). TIF using the EsophyX device system (EndoGastric Solutions) was designed to create a full-thickness valve at the gastroesophageal junction through the insertion of multiple fasteners; it improves GERD, reduces proton pump inhibitor use, and improves quality of life. Although TIF is effective in select patients, a significant subset of patients undergoing TIF develop persistent or recurrent GERD symptoms and may need antireflux surgery to control the GERD symptoms. We now report a 48-year-old man with chronic GERD unresponsive to medical management. He underwent TIF complicated by esophageal perforation and developed mediastinitis, left pneumothorax, bilateral pleural effusions, and acute respiratory failure. He required chest tube placement and bilateral decortication for treatment of nonresolving empyemas. Additional postmarketing studies are required to assess the safety, efficacy, and clinical outcomes of this novel procedure, and patients undergoing this procedure need close postprocedural follow-up.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4d/6b/ce-47-560.PMC4260105.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3730386", "abstract": "More than a century ago, inflammation and infection were considered to have atherogenic effects. The old idea that coronary heart disease (CHD) possibly has an infectious etiology has only reemerged in recent years. Atherosclerosis is the main pathological process involved in CHD and is, logically, the first place to look for infectious etiology. The process of atherosclerosis itself provides the first hints of potential infectious cause. Smooth muscle proliferation, with subsequent intimal thickening, luminal narrowing, and endothelial degeneration, constitutes the natural history of atherosclerosis, being with the severity and speed of these changes. Both viral and bacterial pathogens have been proposed to be associated with the inflammatory changes found in atherosclerosis. Recently, Chlamydophila pneumoniae (C. pneumoniae) has been implicated as a possible etiologic agent of coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis. New evidence which supports a role for C. pneumoniae in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis has emerged. C. pneumoniae has been detected in atherosclerotic arteries by several techniques, and the organism has been isolated from both coronary and carotid atheromas. Recent animal models have suggested that C. pneumoniae is capable of inducing atherosclerosis in both rabbit and mouse models of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, human clinical treatment studies which examined the use of antichlamydial macrolide antibiotics in patients with coronary atherosclerosis have been carried out. The causal relationship has not yet been proven, but ongoing large intervention trials and research on pathogenetic mechanisms may lead to the use of antimicrobial agents in the treatment of CHD in the future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d5/0a/PMC3730386.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4337045", "abstract": " Objective. To examine costs associated with obesity in an employee population and factors associated with increased costs. Methods. We used data from the Physical Activity and Life Style (PALS) study, a randomized prospective design evaluating three interventions to increase physical activity among physically inactive nonfaculty university employees (n = 454). The primary exposure variable, obesity (measured by body mass index), was obtained from the in-person baseline survey. Covariates were obtained from the baseline survey and included demographic characteristics and health status. Data from the baseline survey was linked with administrative data to determine pharmaceutical, inpatient, outpatient, and total health care costs for three years. Average monthly expenditures for obese and nonobese individuals were compared using t-tests and a two-part multivariate regression model adjusted for demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and health behaviors. Results. Although in-patient and outpatient expenses were not associated with obesity, pharmaceutical expenditures were 408 or 87.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/60/PMC4337045.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3904083", "abstract": "Background: Obesity is a major health concern in the developed world, and increasing evidence suggests that exposures to common environmental substances may enhance the risk for the development of this disease. Objectives: The current study examines the effect of the ubiquitous plastic monomer bisphenol A (BPA) on the differentiation of primary human preadipocytes in vitro and the role of the estrogen and glucocorticoid receptors. Methods: In this study, the mechanism of BPA-induced adipogenesis in preadipocytes from donors with healthy body mass index in the absence of exogenous glucocorticoid was evaluated. The effects of estradiol, the estrogen-receptor (ER) antagonist ICI and the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonist RU486 on BPA-induced adipogenesis were examined. The expression levels of key adipogenic factors were assessed. Results: Treatment of preadipocytes with 1–50 μM BPA induced a dose-dependent increase in differentiation and lipid accumulation as determined by lipid staining and triacylglyceride quantification. BPA also induced expression of the adipogenic markers aP2, adipsin, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ and the CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins α and β. Co-treatment of cells with ICI inhibited the BPA-induced increase in aP2 levels, while treatment with ICI or estradiol alone had no effect. Treatment of cells with the GR antagonist RU486 had no effect on BPA-induced differentiation as evaluated by aP2 levels. Conclusions: This study is one of the first to show that BPA induces human adipocyte differentiation in the absence of exogenous glucocorticoid through a non-classical ER pathway rather than through GR activation. These studies add to the growing evidence that endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as BPA have the potential to modulate adipogenesis and impact human biology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/db/8f/nutd201343a.PMC3904083.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4184626", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message We propose that surgical resections of peritoneal metastases arising from hepatocellular carcinoma are an option for selected patients with controlled HCC in the liver, and without metastases in other organs, when the complete removal of such metastases can be achieved, especially in the case of patients with normal liver function.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/66/ccr30002-0037.PMC4184626.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2627231", "abstract": "Objective To compare the diagnostic performances of conventional ultrasound (US) and US elastography for the differentiation of nonpalpable breast masses, and to evaluate whether elastography is helpful at reducing the number of benign biopsies, using histological analysis as a reference standard. Materials and Methods Conventional US and real-time elastographic images were obtained for 100 women who had been scheduled for a US-guided core biopsy of 100 nonpalpable breast masses (83 benign, 17 malignant). Two experienced radiologists unaware of the biopsy and clinical findings analyzed conventional US and elastographic images by consensus, and classified lesions based on degree of suspicion regarding the probability of malignancy. Results were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. In addition, the authors investigated whether a subset of lesions was categorized as suspicious by conventional US, but as benign by elastography. Results Areas under the ROC curves (Az values) were 0.901 for conventional US and 0.916 for elastography (p = 0.808). For BI-RADS category 4a lesions, 44", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/ce/kjr-9-111.PMC2627231.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5124648", "abstract": " Purpose. To present the safety and effect of endoscopic transethmosphenoid optic canal decompression (ETOCD) for indirect traumatic optic neuropathy (ITON) patients with no-light-perception (NLP). Methods. A retrospective study performed on 96 patients (96 eyes) with NLP after ITON between June 1, 2010, and June 1, 2015, who underwent ETOCD, was reviewed. Visual outcome before and after treatment was taken into comparison. Results. The overall visual acuity improvement rate after surgery was 46.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/37/a6/PMC5124648.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2846344", "abstract": "Adipose tissue is an active endocrine organ that secretes various humoral factors (adipokines), and its shift to production of proinflammatory cytokines in obesity likely contributes to the low-level systemic inflammation that may be present in metabolic syndrome-associated chronic pathologies such as atherosclerosis. Leptin is one of the most important hormones secreted by adipocytes, with a variety of physiological roles related to the control of metabolism and energy homeostasis. One of these functions is the connection between nutritional status and immune competence. The adipocyte-derived hormone leptin has been shown to regulate the immune response, innate and adaptive response, both in normal and pathological conditions. The role of leptin in regulating immune response has been assessed in vitro as well as in clinical studies. It has been shown that conditions of reduced leptin production are associated with increased infection susceptibility. Conversely, immune-mediated disorders such as autoimmune diseases are associated with increased secretion of leptin and production of proinflammatory pathogenic cytokines. Thus, leptin is a mediator of the inflammatory response.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f3/bb/PMC2846344.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3317065", "abstract": "We studied an acute and chronic oral toxicity of the extract from Ziziphus attopensis (ZA) in male and female SD rats according to the OECD guidelines. After a single oral administration of ZA 5 g/kg body weight, measurement of the body and organs, necropsy, and health monitoring were performed. The body and organ weights and behavior were not changed relative to the control rats indicating that ZA does not produce acute toxicity. The chronic toxicity was determined by oral feeding both male and female rats daily with ZA at the doses of 1, 2, 4, and 8 g/kg body weight for 180 days. Body weight changes, hematological and biochemical parameters, organ weights, gross finding, and histopathology examination were monitored during the experimental period. The results did not show any differences from the control groups. Analyses of these results with the information of signs, behavior, and health monitoring can lead to a conclusion that the long-term oral administration of ZA for 180 days does not cause chronic toxicity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/00/a2/PMC3317065.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3204781", "abstract": "An Escherichia coli isolate with New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase was isolated from a patient with pyelonephritis and prostatitis who returned to Canada after recent hospitalization in India. The patient was successfully treated with ertapenem and fosfomycin. This patient highlights the role of international travel in the spread of antimicrobial drug resistance and blaNDM-1.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/35/PMC3204781.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4147650", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION The current management of vulvar cancer depends on the extension of disease, and includes primary tumor resection with safety margin as well as inguinofemoral lymph node staging. We report the case of the first leg videoendoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy performed in a woman with a squamous cell vulvar carcinoma. PRESENTATION OF CASE A 74 years old female referred to our institution complaining of vulvar mass associated with bleeding and swelling from external genitals, vaginal burning sensation and dysuria for 5 months. A vulvar–vaginal examination under narcosis reported a right major labium lesion of 5 cm with an irregular and ulcerated surface, easily bleeding on palpation, involving anteriorly the clitoral region and with a histological finding of a poorly differentiated squamous cell invasive carcinoma of the vulva ulcerating the surface epithelium. We performed, after adequate informed consent, a radical vulvectomy with a standard right inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy and a contralateral simultaneous video endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy-Leg procedure. DISCUSSION Our minimally invasive VEIL-Leg approach, performed for the first time in literature in a woman with vulvar cancer, could reduce the presence of high risk factors represented by surgical incision and by procedure-related complications, including wound infection and breakdown, hematoma, cellulitis and hernia formation. CONCLUSION A multicenter prospective randomized study will be helpful to clarify how this procedure could replace the standard laparotomic approach to inguinal lymphadenectomy in the vulvar cancer treatment and staging.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/26/74/main.PMC4147650.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4590312", "abstract": "Background Montelukast (MT) is a leukotriene D4 antagonist. It is an effective and safe medicine for the prophylaxis and treatment of chronic asthma. It is also used to prevent acute exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and as a symptomatic relief of seasonal allergic rhinitis and perennial allergic rhinitis. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioequivalence (BE) of two drug products: generic MT 5 mg chewable tablets versus the branded drug Singulair® pediatric 5 mg chewable tablets among Mediterranean volunteers. Methods An open-label, randomized two-period crossover BE design was conducted in 32 healthy male volunteers with a 9-day washout period between doses and under fasting conditions. The drug concentrations in plasma were quantified by using a newly developed and fully validated liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method, and the pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a non-compartmental model. The ratio for generic/branded tablets using geometric least squares means was calculated for both the MT products. Results The relationship between concentration and peak area ratio was found to be linear within the range 6.098–365.855 ng/mL. The correlation coefficient (R2) was always greater than 0.99 during the course of the validation. Statistical comparison of the main pharmacokinetic parameters showed no significant difference between the generic and branded products. The point estimates (ratios of geometric means) were 101.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/38/dddt-9-5315.PMC4590312.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2798032", "abstract": "Objective To explore the possibilities of proton spectroscopic imaging (1H-MRSI) of the human brain at 7 Tesla with adiabatic refocusing pulses. Materials and methods A combination of conventional slice selective excitation and two pairs of slice selective adiabatic refocusing pulses (semi-LASER) results in the formation of an echo from a localized volume. Depending on the used radio frequency (rf) coil efficiency and available rf power, the duration of the adiabatic full passage pulses (AFPs) is adapted to enable echo times down to 50 ms (head coil) or 30 ms (local surface coil). Results An AFP duration of 5 ms with a corresponding bandwidth of 5.1 kHz resulted in a chemical shift displacement error of 23", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/cd/10334_2007_Article_94.PMC2798032.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3940837", "abstract": "Objectives: The genetic basis of colorectal cancer (CRC) is not completely specified. Part of the difficulty in mapping predisposition genes for CRC may be because of phenotypic heterogeneity. Using data from a population genealogy of Utah record linked to a statewide cancer registry, we identified a subset of CRC cases that exhibited familial clustering in excess of that expected for all CRC cases in general, which may represent a genetically homogeneous subset of CRC. Methods: Using a new familial aggregation method referred to as the subset genealogic index of familiality (subsetGIF), combined with detailed information from a statewide tumor registry, we identified a subset of CRC cases that exhibited excess familial clustering above that expected for CRC: CRC cases who had at least one other primary tumor at a different site. A genome-wide linkage analysis was performed on a set of high-risk CRC pedigrees that included multiple CRC cases with additional primaries to identify evidence for predisposition loci. Results: A total of 13 high-risk CRC pedigrees with multiple CRC cases with other primary cancers were identified. Linkage analysis identified one pedigree with a significant linkage signal at 22q11 (LOD (logarithm (base 10) of odds)=3.39). Conclusions: A predisposition gene or variant for CRC that also predisposes to other primary cancers likely resides on chromosome 22q11. The ability to use statewide population genealogy and tumor registry data was critical to identify an informative subset of CRC cases that is possibly more genetically homogeneous than CRC in general, and may have improved statistical power for predisposition locus identification in this study.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ba/b2/ctg20141a.PMC3940837.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3975209", "abstract": "The nature of the vitreoretinal interface in conditions like diabetic macular edema (DME) remains incompletely understood. Furthermore, it is not clear what the role of pharmacological enzymatic vitreolysis will play in cases of vitreomacular traction (VMT) associated with macular disease like DME. We describe the spontaneous resolution of VMT in 2 patients with DME. As both surgical and pharmacologic interventions have been suggested to treat DME in the setting of VMT, we feel that a clarification of the nomenclature and reporting of these cases of natural history may be useful in more fully understanding the complex decision-making involved when determining whether to treat this subset of patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/0b/cop-0005-0066.PMC3975209.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4772537", "abstract": "A 50-year-old man presented with congenital scaling and hyperkeratosis on his palms, the soles of his feet and the extensor areas of his joints. The flexural areas were unaffected. His maternal grandmother, questionably his maternal uncle, his mother, all three brothers, one of his two sisters as well as two nephews and three nieces have or had similar skin changes. A punch biopsy was taken from the left palm. Clinical and histological signs led to the diagnosis of erythrodermia congenitalis ichthyosiformis bullosa of Brocq. We confirmed this genetically and found a heterozygous duplication (c.1752dupT) in the keratin 1 gene (KRT-1). To our knowledge, this is the first case of this skin condition reported in the literature with a heterozygous duplication (c.1752dupT) in KRT-1.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/68/61/cde-0008-0019.PMC4772537.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4410110", "abstract": "The increasing world population means that there is a requirement to expand global food production. Looking at the Republic of Ireland as an example, the risks and opportunities associated with the expansion of food production are outlined, particularly in relation to zoonoses transmission. A One Health approach to sustainable food production is required to avert a potential public health problem associated with increased agricultural expansion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/48/IEE-5-27708.PMC4410110.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5014507", "abstract": "Introduction Experts consider social accountability as a new paradigm in medical education and a cultural change that is necessary to be studied and understood more deeply. One of the problems of medical education is the inadequacy of medicine graduates to meet the social accountability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the general medicine curriculum for social accountability. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on three groups of experts, faculty members, and general physicians working in health centers in Mashhad in 2014. According to the needs assessment and definition of need as a requirement or preference, the research was conducted in three stages using the Delphi method, in which the opinions of experts, lecturers, and practitioners were collected and classified based on the CARE model in four areas, i.e., clinical activities, advocacy, research, and educational categories, and, ultimately, the percentage of agreement was determined. Results As indicated by the results of the need analysis, in order to reach social accountability of medical students of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, the curriculum should cover four major areas, i.e., clinical activities, advocacy, research, and training. We found 38 items for social accountability that are required in the general medical curriculum, including clinical activities (12 items), advocacy (10 items), and scope of research (8 items). The educational area was comprised of 8 items. In this study, from 30 participants, only 19 people participated in the three-step Delphi, and there was a 70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/36/12/epj-08-2663.PMC5014507.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897064", "abstract": "The study was conducted to investigate the potential of Parkia biglobosa fruit pulp as substrate for citric acid production by Aspergillus niger. Reducing sugar was estimated by 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid and citric acid was estimated spectrophotometrically using pyridine-acetic anhydride methods. The studies revealed that production parameters (pH, inoculum size, substrate concentration, incubation temperature, and fermentation period) had profound effect on the amount of citric acid produced. The maximum yield was obtained at the pH of 2 with citric acid of 1.15 g/L and reducing sugar content of 0.541 mMol−1, 3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/14/45/PMC4897064.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4205792", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Inappropriately named gain-of-function influenza research seeks to confer airborne transmission on avian influenza A viruses that otherwise cause only dead-end infections in humans. A recent study has succeeded in doing this with a highly pathogenic ostrich H7N1 virus in a ferret model without loss of virulence. If transposable to humans, this would constitute a novel virus with a case fatality rate  30 greater than that of Spanish flu. A commentary from three distinguished virologists considered the benefits of this work to outweigh potential risks. I beg to disagree with conclusions in both papers, for the underlying science is not as strong as it appears.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/05/17/mBio.01882-14.PMC4205792.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3987800", "abstract": " Objective. Here we compared analytical and clinical performance characteristics of two novel automated assay systems for the detection of celiac disease (CD) specific antibodies: QUANTA Flash (INOVA Diagnostics, Inc.) and EliA (Thermo Scientific).  Methods. A total of 74 biopsy-proven CD patients (2 with IgA deficiency) and 138 controls were tested by both methods.  Results. Sensitivities of QUANTA Flash assays ranged from 35.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c7/b9/PMC3987800.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4421585", "abstract": "Myxomas are uncommon primary cardiac tumours, usually affecting the left atrium. We describe an unusual presentation of cardiac myxoma with asymptomatic proteinuria and haematuria. Surgical excision of the tumour resulted in complete resolution of the urinary abnormalities. The production of antiendothelial cell antibodies and interleukin-6 by cardiac myxomas may be relevant as these substances have been implicated with the development of renal injury and proteinuria.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ad/8b/sfq204.PMC4421585.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3782842", "abstract": "Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults, and diabetic macular edema (DME) is the most common cause of visual impairment in individuals with DR. This review focuses on the pathophysiology, previous treatment paradigms, and emerging treatment options in the management of DME.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/de/4f/PMC3782842.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4014369", "abstract": "Background The associations between pain, lower extremity strength, and aerobic conditioning have not been widely investigated in adults with fibromyalgia (FM). The principle objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between pain severity and knee strength in patients seeking treatment for FM. A secondary objective was to investigate the relationship between pain scores and aerobic conditioning. Methods Three measures of knee strength (isokinetic extensor, isokinetic flexor, isometric extensor) were quantified in the dominant leg of 69 adults with FM using a dynamometer at speeds of 60 degrees per second (60°/s) and 180°/s. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2) was assessed using a cycle ergometer, and pain was assessed using the pain severity subscale of the Multidimensional Pain Inventory. Results In univariable linear regression analyses using pain severity as the dependent variable, lesser values of isokinetic knee extensor strength at 60°/s (P=0.041) and 180°/s (P=0.010), isokinetic knee flexor strength at 60°/s (P=0.028) and 180°/s (P=0.003), and peak VO2 uptake (P=0.031) were predictive of greater pain severity scores. In multiple variable linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and opioid use, the following associations retained statistical significance; isokinetic knee extensor strength at 60°/s (P=0.020) and 180°/s (P=0.003), isokinetic knee flexor strength at 60°/s (P=0.015) and 180°/s (P=0.001), and peak VO2 uptake (P=0.014). However, no significant associations were found between pain severity and isometric knee extensor strength. Conclusion The main findings from this study were that lesser values of isokinetic knee strength and peak VO2 uptake were predictive of greater pain severity scores. These results build on the findings of previous investigations, but ongoing research is needed to further characterize the effects of strength and peak VO2 uptake on the pathophysiology of FM.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/a4/jpr-7-237.PMC4014369.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4578319", "abstract": "Background: Numerous studies have demonstrated that early maladaptive schemas, emotional dysregulation are supposed to be the defining core of borderline personality disorder. Many studies have also found a strong association between the diagnosis of borderline personality and the occurrence of suicide ideation and dissociative symptoms. Objectives: The present study was designed to investigate the relationship between borderline personality features and schema, emotion regulation, dissociative experiences and suicidal ideation among high school students in Shiraz City, Iran. Patients and Methods: In this descriptive correlational study, 300 students (150 boys and 150 girls) were selected from the high schools in Shiraz, Iran, using the multi-stage random sampling. Data were collected using some instruments including borderline personality feature scale for children, young schema questionnaire-short form, difficulties in emotion-regulation scale (DERS), dissociative experience scale and beck suicide ideation scale. Data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient and multivariate regression analysis. Results: The results showed a significant positive correlation between schema, emotion regulation, dissociative experiences and suicide ideation with borderline personality features. Moreover, the results of multivariate regression analysis suggested that among the studied variables, schema was the most effective predicting variable of borderline features (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The findings of this study are in accordance with findings from previous studies, and generally show a meaningful association between schema, emotion regulation, dissociative experiences, and suicide ideation with borderline personality features.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/49/72/ijhrba-04-02-20021.PMC4578319.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2981152", "abstract": "Background: Because treadmill exercise testing is more representative of daily activity than cycle testing, we developed treadmill protocols to be used in various clinical settings as part of a two-year, multicenter, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) trial evaluating the effect of tiotropium on exercise. Methods: We enrolled 519 COPD patients aged 64.6 ± 8.3 years with a postbronchodilator forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) of 1.25 ± 0.42 L, 44.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/b2/PMC2981152.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3195860", "abstract": "Ill-conceived effort at removal of impacted foreign bodies (FBs) in oesophagus vies with delay in removal as the causes of morbidity and mortality. Most oesophageal FBs are safely removed endoscopically when attempted early. However, large sharp FBs like dentures and meat bones can get deeply embedded in the wall with prolonged impaction or injudicious attempts at removal leading to life-threatening mediastinitis. Open surgery to access the oesophageal-impacted FB in such an event is hazardous. This report emphasizes the need for early site-specific surgical approaches that may be required, albeit rarely, for oesophageal-impacted FBs, where attempts at endoscopic removal have failed or complications have ensued.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/47/PMC3195860.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5126588", "abstract": "Extracutaneous involvement in mycosis fungoides (MF) carries a poor prognosis. Oral and gastrointestinal (GI) tract lesions are both rare locations of disease. We describe the clinical findings of one case with oral and GI MF complicated by perforation after systemic antineoplastic treatment, and review the relevant literature. The patient had a 1-year history of MF before development of tongue and palate tumors. He was treated with local electron beam radiation, but re-presented to the hospital after what was found to be small intestine perforation following systemic antineoplastic therapy. The case reveals key insights into the progression and complications of lymphomas with GI tract involvement.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/31/83/cde-0008-0294.PMC5126588.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3388287", "abstract": " Objectives. To determine rate and factors associated with small-for-gestational-age (SGA) births to women with HIV. Methods. Prospective data were collected from 183 pregnant women with HIV in an urban HIV prenatal clinic, 2000–2011. An SGA birth was defined as less than the 10th or 3rd percentile of birth weight distribution based upon cut points developed using national vital record data. Bivariate analysis utilized chi-squared and t-tests, and multiple logistic regression analyses were used. Results. The prevalence of SGA was 31.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2a/62/PMC3388287.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2873745", "abstract": "We developed and tested a single multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) that detects enterotoxigenic, enteropathogenic, enteroinvasive, and Shiga-toxin–producing Escherichia coli. This PCR is specific, sensitive, and rapid in detecting target isolates in stool and food. Because of its simplicity, economy, and efficiency, this protocol warrants further evaluation in large, prospective studies of polymicrobial substances.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f5/56/PMC2873745.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3971462", "abstract": "The extremely high costs of manufacturing transglutaminase from animal origin (EC 2.3.2.13) have prompted scientists to search for new sources of this enzyme. Interdisciplinary efforts have been aimed at producing enzymes synthesised by microorganisms which may have a wider scope of use. Transglutaminase is an enzyme that catalyses the formation of isopeptide bonds between proteins. Its cross-linking property is widely used in various processes: to manufacture cheese and other dairy products, in meat processing, to produce edible films and to manufacture bakery products. Transglutaminase has considerable potential to improve the firmness, viscosity, elasticity and water-binding capacity of food products. In 1989, microbial transglutaminase was isolated from Streptoverticillium sp. Its characterisation indicated that this isoform could be extremely useful as a biotechnological tool in the food industry. Currently, enzymatic preparations are used in almost all industrial branches because of their wide variety and low costs associated with their biotechnical production processes. This paper presents an overview of the literature addressing the characteristics and applications of transglutaminase.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/02/12223_2013_Article_287.PMC3971462.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4508392", "abstract": "We have developed and evaluated a real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) assay for the detection of human enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) in clinical specimens. This assay was developed in response to the unprecedented 2014 nationwide EV-D68 outbreak in the United States associated with severe respiratory illness. As part of our evaluation of the outbreak, we sequenced and published the genome sequence of the EV-D68 virus circulating in St. Louis, MO. This sequence, along with other GenBank sequences from past EV-D68 occurrences, was used to computationally select a region of EV-D68 appropriate for targeting in a strain-specific RT-PCR assay. The RT-PCR assay amplifies a segment of the VP1 gene, with an analytic limit of detection of 4 copies per reaction, and it was more sensitive than commercially available assays that detect enteroviruses and rhinoviruses without distinguishing between the two, including three multiplex respiratory panels approved for clinical use by the FDA. The assay did not detect any other enteroviruses or rhinoviruses tested and did detect divergent strains of EV-D68, including the first EV-D68 strain (Fermon) identified in California in 1962. This assay should be useful for identifying and studying current and future outbreaks of EV-D68 viruses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/48/zjm2641.PMC4508392.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3970630", "abstract": " Triatoma jatai sp. nov. is the first new species of triatomine to be described in the state of Tocantins, in the northern region of Brazil. It was caught on rock outcrops in the wild environment and, more recently, invading homes. While T. jatai sp. nov. is morphologically similar to Triatoma costalimai, it is distinguished by its general colouring, differences in the blotches on the connexivum, wing size in females and external structures of the male genitalia. The type series has been deposited in the Entomological Collection and Herman Lent Collection, Oswaldo Cruz Institute-Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/df/0074-0276-mioc-108-04-429.PMC3970630.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2992031", "abstract": "Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare neurodegenerative disease with no effective therapy available. We recorded spontaneous magnetoencephalography and auditory evoked fields (AEFs) from a male patient with a rapidly progressive memory disorder, ataxia and myoclonus. Post-mortem examination confirmed sporadic CJD. Sources of the abnormal slow wave activity were localized with a beamformer software. Sources of sharp transients and AEFs were modeled with equivalent current dipoles. The estimated sources of spontaneous activity abnormalities were more dominant in the left hemisphere, in line with left-dominant abnormalities in diffusion-weighted MRI. Sources of AEFs were found in both temporal lobes. Magnetoencephalography measurements on CJD patients are feasible, and provide efficient means for localizing abnormal cortical activity in CJD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/36/crn0002-0122.PMC2992031.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4210415", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between physical function and postural sway during local vibratory stimulation of middle-aged subjects in an upright position. [Subjects] The subjects were 25 healthy community-dwelling middle-aged people. [Methods] We measured postural sway using a Wii board while vibratory stimulations of 30, 60, or 240 Hz were applied to the subjects’ lumbar multifidus or gastrocnemius muscles. Physical function was evaluated by 5-m usual gait speed and grip strength. [Results] Gait speed was strongly correlated to the anteroposterior body sway in the upright position during 30 Hz gastrocnemius muscles vibration (GMV). [Conclusion] Postural sway during 30 Hz GMV was strongly associated with gait speed and showed a posterior displacement. These findings show that the lower leg’s response to balance control under 30 Hz proprioceptive stimulation might be a good indicator of declining gait function.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/d8/jpts-26-1627.PMC4210415.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3881911", "abstract": "Self-ligating brackets engage the wire by means of a slide mechanism. Forces that have to be applied to open and close the sliding mechanism of brackets are still unknown. Objective: The aim of this study was to measure and compare the opening and closure forces of different self-ligating brackets.  Material and Methods: Three different stainless steel self-ligating brackets (Carriere LX, Ortho Organizers; F1000, Leone; Damon Q, Ormco) were tested. For each different bracket, 20 maxillary right central incisors and 20 mandibular right central incisors were used. Opening and closure forces were measured using an Instron Universal Testing Machine. Statistical analysis was performed and ANOVA and Tukey tests were carried out.  Results: Opening forces were registered between 1.1 N and 5.6 N, whereas closure forces were recorded between 1.57 N and 4.87 N. Significant differences were detected among the different brackets and between the two prescriptions tested.  Conclusion: The knowledge of different opening and closure forces of self-ligating brackets can help the orthodontist in the clinical management of these devices.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/56/0f/jaos-21-03-0231.PMC3881911.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2686586", "abstract": "The Transporter Classification Database (TCDB), freely accessible at http://www.tcdb.org, is a relational database containing sequence, structural, functional and evolutionary information about transport systems from a variety of living organisms, based on the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-approved transporter classification (TC) system. It is a curated repository for factual information compiled largely from published references. It uses a functional/phylogenetic system of classification, and currently encompasses about 5000 representative transporters and putative transporters in more than 500 families. We here describe novel software designed to support and extend the usefulness of TCDB. Our recent efforts render it more user friendly, incorporate machine learning to input novel data in a semiautomatic fashion, and allow analyses that are more accurate and less time consuming. The availability of these tools has resulted in recognition of distant phylogenetic relationships and tremendous expansion of the information available to TCDB users.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/3e/gkn862.PMC2686586.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC137272", "abstract": "As in other areas of medicine, the specialty of critical care medicine, which has made important contributions in the pathophysiology of critical illness, is facing challenges that must be recognized and addressed in the current century. In this review, we argue that the skill set required to adequately treat critically ill patients will also require knowledge of molecular biology for better diagnosis and treatment. The foundations of molecular biology and genetics are essential for the understanding of the mechanisms of disease. Incorporating molecular biology techniques in the research arsenal of the intensivist will provide the opportunity to dissect out and define the reversible and irreversible intracellular processes giving rise to the major causes of mortality in intensive care units. Two historical paradigms, the cardiopulmonary resuscitation and polymerase chain reaction, summarize how critical care medicine began, and how it could mature in the years to come.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/43/39/PMC137272.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5018503", "abstract": "Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein with various biological effects, with antibacterial activity being one of the first effects reported. This glycoprotein suppresses bacterial growth through bacteriostatic or bactericidal action. It also stimulates the growth of certain kinds of bacteria such as lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria. In this study, Asn-Leu-Asn-Arg was selected and chemically synthesized based on the partial sequences of bovine lactoferrin tryptic fragments. Synthetic Asn-Leu-Asn-Arg suppressed the growth of Pseudomonas fluorescens, P. syringae and Escherichia coli. P. fluorescens is a major psychrotrophic bacteria found in raw and pasteurized milk, which decreases milk quality. P. syringae is a harmful infectious bacterium that damages plants. However, synthetic Asn-Leu-Asn-Arg did not inhibit the growth of Lactobacillus acidophilus. It is expected that this synthetic peptide would be the first peptide sequence from the bovine lactoferrin C-lobe that shows antibacterial activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/78/60/kosfa-36-452.PMC5018503.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5050309", "abstract": "Background Incidence of diastolic dyssynchrony (DD) and its impact on functional recovery of left ventricle (LV) after ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is not known. Methods Consecutive patients with STEMI who underwent successful revascularization were prospectively enrolled. Echocardiography with tissue Doppler imaging was performed within 48 hours of admission and at 6 months. LV end-diastolic volume index (EDVI), end-systolic volume index (ESVI), ejection fraction (EF), and left atrial volume index (LAVI) were calculated. Diastolic delay was calculated from onset of QRS complex to peak of E wave in tissue Doppler image and presented as maximal temporal difference between peak early diastolic velocity of 6 basal segments of LV (TeDiff). Study patients were compared with demographically matched control group. Results Forty eight consecutive patients (55 ± 10 years, 88", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/b5/jcu-24-208.PMC5050309.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4837839", "abstract": "Background: Antioxidants and the duration of treatment after noise exposure on hearing recovery are important. We investigated the protective effects of an antioxidant substance, edaravone, and its slow-release dosage form, edaravone solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), in steady noise-exposed guinea pigs. Methods: SLNs loaded with edaravone were produced by an ultrasound technique. Edaravone solution or edaravone SLNs were administered by intratympanic or intravenous injection after the 1st day of noise exposure. Guinea pigs were exposed to 110 dB sound pressure level (SPL) noise, centered at 0.25–4.0 kHz, for 4 days at 2 h/d. After noise exposure, the guinea pigs underwent auditory brainstem response (ABR) threshold measurements, reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected in their cochleas with electron spin resonance (ESR), and outer hair cells (OHCs) were counted with silvernitrate (AgNO3) staining at 1, 4, and 6 days. Results: The ultrasound technique was able to prepare adequate edaravone SLNs with a mean particle size of 93.6 nm and entrapment efficiency of 76.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/36/bf/CMJ-128-203.PMC4837839.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4480404", "abstract": "We evaluated the stability of Ebola virus on surfaces and in fluids under simulated environmental conditions for the climate of West Africa and for climate-controlled hospitals. This virus remains viable for a longer duration on surfaces in hospital conditions than in African conditions and in liquid than in dried blood.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f4/2f/PMC4480404.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4090440", "abstract": "We tested the hypothesis that 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) inhibits toxin A-induced generation of colonic leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and toxin A colitis in rats. Isolated colonic segments in anesthetized rats were treated intraluminally with toxin A for 3 hours with or without 30 minutes of pretreatment with either 5-ASA or sulfapyridine and then colonic tissue levels of LTB4 were measured and inflammation was assessed. Separately, sulfasalazine was administered to rats in their drinking water for 5 days, isolated colonic segments were then prepared, toxin A was administered, and inflammation was assessed as before. Pretreatment with 5-ASA inhibited toxin A-induced increased tissue LTB4 concentration in the colon. Sulfasalazine and 5-ASA but not sulfapyridine significantly inhibited toxin A colitis. However, pretreatment with 5-ASA did not protect against direct TRPV1-mediated colitis caused by capsaicin. Toxin A stimulated the release of substance P (SP), and this effect was also inhibited by sulfasalazine and 5-ASA but not by sulfapyridine. Thus, toxin A stimulates colonic LTB4 resulting in activation of TRPV1, release of SP, and colitis. Inhibition of 5-LO by 5-ASA disrupts this pathway and supports the concept that LTB4 activation of TRPV1 plays a role in toxin A colitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ad/a1/PMC4090440.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5045517", "abstract": "Background Cardiotoxicity from anthracycline-based chemotherapy is an important cause of early and late morbidity and mortality in breast cancer patients. Left ventricular (LV) function is assessed for patients receiving anthracycline-based chemotherapy to identify cardiotoxicity. However, animal studies suggest that right ventricular (RV) function may be a more sensitive measure to detect LV dysfunction. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine if breast cancer patients undergoing anthracycline-based chemotherapy experience RV dysfunction. Methods Forty-nine breast cancer patients undergoing anthracycline-based chemotherapy at the Ottawa Hospital between November 2007 and March 2013 and who had 2 echocardiograms performed at least 3months apart were retrospectively identified. Right atrial area (RAA), right ventricular fractional area change (RV FAC) and RV longitudinal strain of the free wall (RV LSFW) were evaluated according to the American Society of Echocardiography guidelines. Results The majority (48/49) of patients were females with an average age of 53.4 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/6e/erp-3-79.PMC5045517.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4660024", "abstract": " Background. We aimed to validate an easy-to-use videofluoroscopic analysis tool, the bolus residue scale (BRS), for detection and classification of pharyngeal retention in the valleculae, piriform sinuses, and/or the posterior pharyngeal wall. Methods. 50 randomly selected videofluoroscopic images of 10 mL swallows (recorded in 18 dysphagia patients and 8 controls) were analyzed by 4 experts and 6 nonexpert observers. A score from 1 to 6 was assigned according to the number of structures affected by residue. Inter- and intrarater reliabilities were assessed by calculation of intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for expert and nonexpert observers. Sensitivity, specificity, and interrater agreement were analyzed for different BRS levels. Results. Intrarater reproducibility was almost perfect for experts (mean ICC 0.972) and ranged from substantial to almost perfect for nonexperts (mean ICC 0.835). Interjudge agreement of the experts ranged from substantial to almost perfect (mean ICC 0.780), but interrater reliability of nonexperts ranged from substantial to good (mean 0.719). BRS shows for experts a high specificity and sensitivity and for nonexperts a low sensitivity and high specificity. Conclusions. The BRS is a simple, easy-to-carry-out, and accessible rating scale to locate pharyngeal retention on videofluoroscopic images with a good specificity and reproducibility for observers of different expertise levels.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/50/fd/PMC4660024.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3332195", "abstract": " Background. A substantial proportion of the annual 875,000 childhood unintentional injury deaths occur in the home. Very few printed tools are available in South Asia for disseminating home injury prevention information. Methods. Three tools were planned: an injury hazard assessment tool appropriate for a developing country setting, an educational pamphlet highlighting strategies for reducing home injury hazards, and an in-home safety tutorial program to be delivered by a trained community health worker. Results. The three tools were successfully developed. Two intervention neighborhoods in Karachi, Pakistan, were mapped. The tools were pretested in this local setting and are now ready for pilot testing in an intervention study. Conclusion. Planning for an innovative, community-based pilot study takes considerable time and effort in a low-income setting like Pakistan. The primary outcome of the pre-testing phase of the study was the development of three important tools geared for low-income housing communities in Pakistan.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/79/PMC3332195.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3805300", "abstract": "Motor planning in older adults likely relies on the overengagement of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and is associated with slowness of movement and responses. Does a physically active lifestyle counteract the overrecruitment of the PFC during action preparation? This study used high-resolution electroencephalography to measure the effect of physical exercise on the executive functions of the PFC preceding a visuomotor discriminative task. A total of 130 participants aged 15–86 were divided into two groups based on physical exercise participation. The response times and accuracy and the premotor activity of the PFC were separately correlated with age for the two groups. The data were first fit with a linear function and then a higher order polynomial function. We observed that after 35–40 years of age, physically active individuals have faster response times than their less active peers and showed no signs of PFC hyperactivity during motor planning. The present findings show that physical exercise could speed up the response of older people and reveal that also in middle-aged people, moderate-to-high levels of physical exercise benefits the planning/execution of a response and the executive functions mediated by the PFC, counteracting the neural overactivity often observed in the elderly adults.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/1d/glt094.PMC3805300.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4584365", "abstract": "Background: Adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has been proposed to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS), but the association of the diet on MetS in non-Mediterranean populations remains unclear. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate whether adherence to the MedDiet is related to the incident MetS and its components during a 3-year follow-up among Iranian adults. Patients and Methods: Longitudinal associations between the MedDiet and MetS components were investigated on 2241 adults, aged 18 - 74 years, without type 2 diabetes selected from participants of the Tehran lipid and glucose study (TLGS). The association between the MedDiet and MetS incidence was also examined in 1661 participants, free of Mets at baseline. Adherence to the MedDiet was assessed using the traditional Mediterranean diet score (MDS) and a recently posteriori adaptation of the MDS of Sofi et al. (Sofi-MDS). MetS was defined according to the recent interim consensus. Results: After adjusting for potential confounders, neither higher MDS nor higher Sofi-MDS were significantly associated with the mean values of MetS components and the risk of metabolic abnormalities incidence after 3 years follow-up. During the 3 years of follow-up, 246 developed MetS were identified. In multivariable model, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) of developing MetS did not differ significantly in participants with the highest tertile of the MDS (OR (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/7e/ijem-13-03-26128.PMC4584365.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3168862", "abstract": "A considerable number of cancer patients use complementary medicine therapies in order to alleviate different symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and depression, occurring in connection with cancer.  This paper explores the question to what extent massage therapies are able to reduce the amount of pain, anxiety, and depression. For this purpose, a systematic literature analysis was carried out in the electronic databases and specialist journals. There is already evidence that massage therapies can influence the symptoms of pain, anxiety, and depression in a positive way.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e8/88/PMC3168862.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3199183", "abstract": "The three major mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) p38, JNK, and ERK are signal transducers involved in a broad range of cell functions including survival, apoptosis, and cell differentiation. Whereas JNK and p38 have been generally linked to cell death and tumor suppression, ERK plays a prominent role in cell survival and tumor promotion, in response to a broad range of stimuli such as cytokines, growth factors, ultraviolet radiation, hypoxia, or pharmacological compounds. However, there is a growing body of evidence supporting that JNK and p38 also contribute to the development of a number of malignances. In this paper we focus on the involvement of the MAPK pathways in prostate cancer, including the less-known ERK5 pathway, as pro- or antitumor mediators, through their effects on apoptosis, survival, metastatic potential, and androgen-independent growth.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/72/fa/PMC3199183.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4616872", "abstract": "Abstract The effect of intracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) calcification on cognitive impairment is uncertain. Our objective was to investigate whether intracranial ICA calcification is a significant cognitive predictor for cognitive impairment. Global cognition and degrees of intracranial ICA calcification of 579 subjects were assessed with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Agatston calcium scoring method, respectively. Other risk factors for cognitive impairment, including age, education level, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, hyperlipidemia, and body mass index, were documented and analyzed for their associations with cognitive function. In univariate analyses, older age, lower education level, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and higher intracranial ICA Agatston scores were significantly associated with cognitive impairment. In ordinal logistic regression, only age and total intracranial ICA Agatston score were significant risk factors for cognitive impairment. After adjustment for the other documented risk factors, subjects were 7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/56/f1/medi-94-e1546.PMC4616872.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4132599", "abstract": "Introduction Objectives were to evaluate safety and patient reported perception of the Martius fibroadipose flap for complex female urethra reconstruction. Material and methods Patients operated with a Martius flap were contacted again via telephone to rate their self–perception on cosmetic appearance, pain or numbness of the flap harvest site. Results 37 women (mean age of 46.8 yrs.) were operated with Martius flaps. Complications were limited to bleeding from the flap bed in 19", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ca/63/CEJU-67-00348.PMC4132599.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3302057", "abstract": "Prescribing errors are the most common type of medical errors and can result in harm particularly in young children. Doctors were enrolled in a programme of written assessment in prescribing skills and individualized feedback. Pharmacists audited the impact. The setting was the paediatric wards and neonatal unit of a District General Hospital. 16 doctors were tested and received feedback. A total of 110 errors were identified in this test, out of a 51 were classified as major including wrong dose and frequency, and prescribing medication the patient had an allergy to. Audit of impact of this intervention revealed a reduction of errors from 47 to 21, and patients affected from 19 to 11 per 100 (P = 0.001) emergency admissions compared to an audit before the intervention. An intervention combining a comprehensive multifaceted assessment and detailed feedback can lead to reduction of prescribing errors in paediatric trainees.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/eb/PMC3302057.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3818776", "abstract": " [Purpose] The aim of this study was to examine the effects of horseback riding simulator exercise on postural balance of chronic stroke patients. [Subjects] A total of 67 stroke patients were assigned either to a horseback riding simulator exercise group (HEG, n=34) or a mat exercise group (MEG, n=33). [Methods] The subjects exercised three times per week for 8 weeks. Static balance ability was determined by eyes open balance (EOB) and eyes closed balance (ECB), which was measured using a Kinesthetic Ability Trainer Balance system. Dynamic balance was evaluated using the Berg balance scale (BBS). [Results] EOB and ECB significantly decreased and BBS had significantly increased after the intervention in the HEG and the MEG, and ECB decreased and BBS increased significantly more in the HEG than in the MEG. [Conclusion] Horseback riding simulator exercise is more effective than mat exercise for improving the ECB and BBS of stroke patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/af/aa/jpts-25-1169.PMC3818776.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3315663", "abstract": "Although paraganglioma (PGL), an extra-adrenal retroperitoneal pheochromocytoma (PHEO), is a rare catecholamine-secreting neuroendocrine tumor, it can cause severe hypertensive crisis during anesthesia or surgery if undiagnosed preoperatively. Extraluminal perigastric masses may be presumed to be gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) or soft tissue sarcomas even when histologic confirmation is not possible. Therefore, without a histologic diagnosis or symptoms of excessive catecholamine secretion, PGL may be mistaken for GIST. We report a case of preoperatively undiagnosed PGL which caused hypertensive crisis during anesthesia for retroperitoneal mass excision.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/00/e1/kjae-62-289.PMC3315663.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3510275", "abstract": "Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a benign self-limiting disease characterized by fever and lymphadenitis. The etiology and pathogenesis of KFD is unclear. However, two hypotheses have been suggested: a viral infection hypothesis and an autoimmune hypothesis. Several KFD patients with various types of autoimmune diseases have been reported, and these reports support the hypothesis for autoimmune pathogenesis of KFD. Here, we report the case of a 17-year-old female patient diagnosed with KFD and autoimmune thyroiditis. This case serves as additional evidence that the etiology of KFD is autoimmune origin.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/e0/kjped-55-445.PMC3510275.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3417366", "abstract": "Trimeric autotransporter adhesins (TAAs) are multimeric surface proteins exclusively found in bacteria. They are involved in various biological traits of pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria including adherence, biofilm formation, invasion, survival within eukaryotic cells, serum resistance, and cytotoxicity. TAAs have a modular architecture composed by a conserved membrane-anchored C-terminal domain and a variable number of stalk and head domains. In this study, a bioinformatic approach has been used to analyze the distribution and architecture of TAAs among Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) genomes. Fifteen genomes were probed revealing a total of 74 encoding sequences. Compared with other bacterial species, the Bcc genomes contain a large number of TAAs (two genes to up to eight genes, such as in B. cenocepacia). Phylogenetic analysis showed that the TAAs grouped into at least eight distinct clusters. TAAs with serine-rich repeats are clearly well separated from others, thereby representing a different evolutionary lineage. Comparative gene mapping across Bcc genomes reveals that TAA genes are inserted within conserved synteny blocks. We further focused our analysis on the epidemic strain B. cenocepacia J2315 in which seven TAAs were annotated. Among these, three TAA-encoding genes (BCAM019, BCAM0223, and BCAM0224) are organized into a cluster and are candidates for multifunctional virulence factors. Here we review the current insights into the functional role of BCAM0224 as a model locus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/0a/fcimb-01-00013.PMC3417366.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4263802", "abstract": "Renal colic is the most frequent nonobstetric cause for abdominal pain and subsequent hospitalization during pregnancy. The physio-anatomical changes in the urinary tract and the presence of the fetus may complicate the clinical presentation and management of nephrolithiasis. Ultrasound (US) is the primary radiological investigation of choice. Magnetic resonance urography (MRU) and low-dose computed tomography (CT) have to be considered as a second- and third-line test, respectively. If a study that uses ionizing radiation has to be performed, the radiation dose to the fetus should be as low as possible. The initial management of symptomatic ureteric stones is conservative during pregnancy. Intervention will be necessary in patients who do not respond to conservative measures. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain a prompt and accurate diagnosis to optimize the management of these patients.  Teaching Points  • In pregnancy, renal colic is the most frequent nonobstetric cause for abdominal pain and hospitalization.  • Magnetic resonance urography should be considered when ultrasound is nondiagnostic.  • Low-dose CT should be considered as a last-line test during pregnancy. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/02/PMC4263802.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4793041", "abstract": "[Purpose] The effect of early rehabilitation protocols after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is currently unknown. We examined short-term effects of early rehabilitation on functional outcomes and activities of daily living after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. [Subject and Methods] An 82-year-old male fell during a walk, resulting in a supraspinatus tear. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair was performed using a single-row technique. He wore an abduction brace for 6 weeks after surgery. [Results] From day 1 after surgery, passive range of motion exercises, including forward flexion and internal and external rotation were performed twice per day. Starting at 6 weeks after surgery, active range of motion exercises and muscle strengthening exercises were introduced gradually. At 6 weeks after surgery, his active forward flexion was 150°, UCLA shoulder rating scale score was 34 points, and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire disability/symptom score was 36 points. At 20 weeks after surgery, his active forward flexion was 120°, UCLA shoulder rating scale score was 34 points, and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire disability/symptom score was 0 points. [Conclusion] These protocols are recommended to physical therapists during rehabilitation for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair to support rapid reintegration into activities of daily living.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/25/27/jpts-28-714.PMC4793041.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3744261", "abstract": "Iran’s health system is expanding the disaster and emergency higher education programs over the country to enhance the capacity of human resources for effective and efficient disaster mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. In this article we present an overview about the initiatives and progress of disaster and emergency health higher education in Iran. Following the Bam earthquake, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health     Medical Education and National Institute of Health Research, School of Public Health at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran took the initiative to develop a Master of Public Health (MPH) with disaster concentration in 2006, a PhD in disaster and emergency health in 2011, and a well constructed certificate course in 2008 entitled Disaster Health Management and Risk Reduction (DHMR). Iran, Kerman and Shahid Beheshti Universities of Medical Sciences and University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation are other academia that joined this initiative. Regarding the importance of programs evaluation, we have planned for a comprehensive evaluation of MPH and DHMR programs in 2013–4 and the Accreditation and Evaluation Board of Disaster     Emergency Health, based in MOH   ME, is responsible for evaluation of the PhD program in 3–5 years from initiation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/de/43/ijph-42-635.PMC3744261.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3958323", "abstract": "The fish species Synbranchus marmoratus is widely distributed throughout the Neotropical region and exhibits a significant karyotype differentiation. However, data concerning the organization and location of the repetitive DNA sequences in the genomes of these karyomorphs are still lacking. In this study we made a physical mapping of the H3 and H4 histone multigene family and the transposable elements Rex1 and Rex3 in the genome of three known S. marmoratus karyomorphs. The results indicated that both histone sequences seem to be linked with one another and are scattered all over the chromosomes of the complement, with a little compartmentalization in one acrocentric pair, which is different from observations in other fish groups. Likewise, the transposable elements Rex1 and Rex3 were also dispersed throughout the genome as small clusters. The data also showed that the histone sites are organized in a differentiated manner in the genomes of S. marmoratus, while the transposable elements Rex1 and Rex3 do not seem to be compartmentalized in this group.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/83/32/PMC3958323.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4793015", "abstract": "[Purpose] Biomechanical data for manual material handling are important for appropriate engineering design. The goal of this study was to investigate differences in trunk muscle activity in lifting and lowering tasks at various heights. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty healthy, young adult subjects performed 6 asymmetrical lifting and lowering tasks at various heights. Trunk muscle activity of the abdominal external oblique muscle (EO), rectus abdominis muscle (RA), and lumbar erector spinae muscles (ES) were recorded using surface electromyography (EMG). [Results] The EMG activities of the bilateral ES differed significantly among heights. The left EO activity in the ankle to knee lifting task was significantly increased compared with that of the knee to ankle lowering task. However, there were no significant differences in the right EO, bilateral ES, or RA between lifting and lowering tasks. [Conclusion] The results show that the optimal range for manual material handling was at trunk height, not only for lifting but also for lowering tasks.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/fc/jpts-28-585.PMC4793015.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4884443", "abstract": "Background: Nurses are considered the largest and most important human resource for healthcare organizations. Self-efficacy as the main predictor of nurses’ behavior plays an important role in nurses’ professional behavior. However, the various dimensions and threats of caring self- efficacy concept have not been taken into consideration. Objectives: The present paper attempts to identify threats to self-efficacy as an important aspect of the concept of pediatric nurses’ caring self-efficacy. Materials and Methods: This study is part of a larger study on the caring self-efficacy concept that was conducted through content analysis and from a qualitative approach in 2014 in Iran. Twenty-seven nurses and pediatric clinical instructors participated in this research according to the purposive sampling method employed in the study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The collected data were analyzed using the conventional content analysis method. Results: “Threats to self-efficacy” was one of the main themes extracted from the interview analysis results in the present study. The theme consists of two main categories “individual barriers,” including not having a caring attitude and not being interested in children, and “organizational barriers,” including an inefficient educational system, not developing professional capabilities, non-valuation of the organization in a caring context, a poor rewards system, and inappropriate managerial policies. Conclusions: Nursing management and custodians of nursing trainings can break through the barriers to self-efficacy by knowing these factors and making changes in the educational programs and providing supporting policies. This can be an important step toward improving nurses’ inefficacy and ultimately improving the provision of quality healthcare services.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/94/ircmj-18-03-25716.PMC4884443.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5441254", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Limited evidence-based protocols exist regarding the management of venous pseudoaneurysms. Cases reports have documented surgical treatments including endovascular coil embolization or suture ligation in the setting of hemodynamic stability. Depending on the location of the venous injury, a more conservative approach to a stable pseudoaneurysm may be advantageous. This report describes a case of a patient who sustained a blunt traumatic common iliac vein pseudoaneurysm who was successfully managed non-operatively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/74/rjx085.PMC5441254.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3396113", "abstract": "The effects of statins on two platelet activation markers, plasiminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 and adiponectin, were investigated in 68 patients with hyperlipidemia. The patients were treated with pitavastatin with a dosage of 2 mg daily. The plasma levels of platelet-derived microparticles (PDMP), soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), sP-selectin, PAI-1, and adiponectin were measured at baseline and after 6 months of treatment in both groups. In hyperlipidemic patients, the plasma levels were higher in PDMP, sCD40L, sP-selectin, and PAI-1, and lower in adiponectin, compared to the normolipidemic controls. Plasma PDMP and sCD40L were positively correlated, while plasma adiponectin was negatively correlated with the plasma levels of PAI-1. No significant differences were observed in the plasma levels of PDMP, sCD40L, sP-selectin, and PAI-1 before and after treatment. A significant increase in plasma adiponectin levels was observed after 6 months of treatment with pitavastatin. When the patients treated with pitavastatin were divided into two groups according to the adiponectin response to pitavastatin treatment, significant decreases in plasma PAI-1, PDMP, and sCD40L levels were observed after pitavastatin treatment in the responder group. These findings suggest that PDMP, sCD40L, and PAI-1 may participate in the development of atherothrombosis in patients with hyperlipidemia, and that pitavastatin may exert an adiponectin-dependent anti-atherothrombotic effect in hyperlipidemic patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/a5/PMC3396113.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3979266", "abstract": "Objective: To study the antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic effects of an ethanolic extract of the whole plant of Tridax procumbens (Asteraceae) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: The whole plant of T. procumbens was collected in different regions of Madurai districts, Tamil Nadu. The air dried whole plant of T. procumbens was extracted with ethanol (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/eb/JBCP-4-88.PMC3979266.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1630687", "abstract": "The functional consequences of the interaction of transcriptional coregulators with the human thyroid hormone receptor (TR) in mammalian cells are complex. We have used the yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which lack endogenous nuclear receptors (NRs) and NR coregulators, as a model to decipher mechanisms regulating transcriptional activation by TR. In effect, this system allows the reconstitution of TR mediated transcription complexes by the expression of specific combinations of mammalian proteins in yeast. In this yeast system, human adenovirus 5 early region 1A (E1A), a natural N-CoR splice variant (N-CoRI) or an artificial N-CoR truncation (N-CoRC) coactivate unliganded TRs and these effects are inhibited by thyroid hormone (TH). E1A contains a short peptide sequence that resembles known corepressor-NR interaction motifs (CoRNR box motif, CBM), and this motif is required for TR binding and coactivation. N-CoRI and N-CoRC contain three CBMs, but only the C-terminal CBM1 is critical for coactivation. These observations in a yeast model system suggest that E1A and N-CoRI are naturally occurring TR coactivators that bind in the typical corepressor mode. These findings also raise the possibility that alternative splicing events which form corepressor proteins containing only C-terminal CBM motifs could represent a novel mechanism in mammalian cells for regulating constitutive transcriptional activation by TRs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b6/34/PMC1630687.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5010163", "abstract": "Migraine pathogenesis involves a complex interaction between hormones, neurotransmitters, and inflammatory pathways, which also influence the migraine phenotype. The Mediterranean fever gene (MEFV) encodes the pyrin protein. The major role of pyrin appears to be in the regulation of inflammation activity and the processing of the cytokine pro-interleukin-1β, and this cytokine plays a part in migraine pathogenesis. This study included 220 migraine patients and 228 healthy controls. Eight common missense mutations of the MEFV gene, known as M694V, M694I, M680I, V726A, R761H, K695R, P369S, and E148Q, were genotyped using real-time polymerase chain reaction with 5′ nuclease assays, which include sequence specific primers, and probes with a reporter dye. When mutations were evaluated separately among the patient and control groups, only the heterozygote E148Q carrier was found to be significantly higher in the control group than in the patient group (P=0.029, odds ratio [95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/01/e0/ndt-12-2225.PMC5010163.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3545255", "abstract": "As a member of Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (GP IIb/IIIa) inhibitors, Tirofiban had been shown to improve myocardial reperfusion and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), but the optimal timing of administration of Tirofiban remains unclear. In order to compare the effects of upstream versus downstream administration of Tirofiban in Chinese patients with mid to high risk, non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (ACS) referred for PCI, a multi-center, randomized, controlled, prospective study will be conducted. A total of 500 mid to high risk, non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) ACS patients will be recruited for this study. Patients will be randomized to Tirofiban upstream administration group (initiated 12 h before PCI) and Tirofiban downstream administration group (initiated at cath-lab after angiography). Thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grades, TIMI myocardial perfusion grades (TMPG), and Corrected TIMI frame counting (CTFC) before and after PCI, as well as clinical outcomes during the hospital stay, and within 30 days after PCI will be compared between the two groups. This study will provide evidence on the optimal timing for initiating administration of Tirofiban in mid to high NSTEMI ACS subjects undergoing PCI.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/a6/jgc-09-04-375.PMC3545255.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3867998", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE We evaluated relationships of oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT)–derived measures of insulin sensitivity and pancreatic β-cell function with indices of diabetes complications in a cross-sectional study of patients with type 2 diabetes who are free of overt cardiovascular or renal disease. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A subset of participants from the Penn Diabetes Heart Study (n = 672; mean age 59 ± 8 years; 67", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/cb/124.PMC3867998.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5030313", "abstract": "This work pertains to GEO submission GSE36672, in vivo and in vitro genome wide binding (ChIP-Seq) of Bapx1/Nkx3.2 and Sox9 proteins. We have previously shown that data from a genome wide binding assay combined with transcriptional profiling is an insightful means to divulge the mechanisms directing cell type specification and the generation of tissues and subsequent organs [1]. Our earlier work identified the role of the DNA-binding homeodomain containing protein Bapx1/Nkx3.2 in midgestation murine embryos. Microarray analysis of EGFP-tagged cells (both wildtype and null) was integrated using ChIP-Seq analysis of Bapx1/Nkx3.2 and Sox9 DNA-binding proteins in living tissue.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0c/24/main.PMC5030313.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2629936", "abstract": "To report three cases in which reorganization of the photoreceptor layer on optical coherence tomography (OCT) was concurrent with long-term visual recovery after macular hole surgery. Serial OCT scans of three eyes in which visual acuity continued to improve for 1 or more years after successful macular hole surgery were reviewed. Case 1. At postoperative four weeks, visual acuity was 20/100 with disorganized photoreceptor layer on OCT. The photoreceptor layer had been reorganized and visual acuity had improved to 20/25 by 1 year. Case 2. Two weeks after the operation, visual acuity was 20/125 and disorganization of the photoreceptor layer was noted. Visual acuity improved to 20/50 by four months. The photoreceptor layer had been partly reorganized and had appearance of a broken line. Visual acuity had improved to 20/40 and the photoreceptor layer had been reorganized further with a residual defect on OCT by 15 months. Case 3. Visual acuity at two weeks was 20/100. OCT revealed disorganization of the photoreceptor layer. Six months after the operation, the partly reorganized photoreceptor layer appeared as a broken line and visual acuity had reached 20/80. Visual acuity had improved further to 20/40 by 1 year, concurrent with improved organization of the photoreceptor layer. The reorganization of the photoreceptor layer plays a part in long-term improvement of visual acuity after macular hole surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5b/27/kjo-22-137.PMC2629936.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3161305", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To test whether adding mobile application coaching and patient/provider web portals to community primary care compared with standard diabetes management would reduce glycated hemoglobin levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A cluster-randomized clinical trial, the Mobile Diabetes Intervention Study, randomly assigned 26 primary care practices to one of three stepped treatment groups or a control group (usual care). A total of 163 patients were enrolled and included in analysis. The primary outcome was change in glycated hemoglobin levels over a 1-year treatment period. Secondary outcomes were changes in patient-reported diabetes symptoms, diabetes distress, depression, and other clinical (blood pressure) and laboratory (lipid) values. Maximal treatment was a mobile- and web-based self-management patient coaching system and provider decision support. Patients received automated, real-time educational and behavioral messaging in response to individually analyzed blood glucose values, diabetes medications, and lifestyle behaviors communicated by mobile phone. Providers received quarterly reports summarizing patient’s glycemic control, diabetes medication management, lifestyle behaviors, and evidence-based treatment options. RESULTS The mean declines in glycated hemoglobin were 1.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ca/33/1934.PMC3161305.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2903666", "abstract": "A symposium was held at the University of California, San Diego, to honor the contributions of Nobel Laureate, George Palade, to cell biology. The speakers included Günter Blobel, on the structure and function of nuclear pore complexes; Peter Walter, on the unfolded protein response in health and disease; Randy Schekman, on human disease-linked mutations in the COPII machinery; Scott Emr, on the regulation of plasma membrane composition by selective endocytosis; Roger Kornberg, on the structure and function of the transcription machinery; Peter Novick, on the regulation of rab GTPases along the secretory pathway; Jim Spudich, on the mechanism of the enigmatic myosin VI motor; and Joe Goldstein, on the function of the Niemann-Pick C (NPC)-linked gene products, NPC1 and NPC2, in cholesterol transport. Their work showcased the multidisciplinary nature, diversity, and vitality of cell biology. In the words of George Palade, their talks also illustrated “how cell biology could be used to understand disease and how disease could be used to discover normal cell biology.” An integrated understanding of the cellular machinery will be essential in tackling the plethora of questions and challenges posed by completion of the human genome and for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying human disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2c/49/PMC2903666.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2693831", "abstract": "Congenital pulmonary lymphangiectasis (CPL) is a rare, poorly documented disease, characterized by abnormal dilatation of pulmonary lymphatics without lymphatic proliferation. This disease is seen almost exclusively in infancy and early childhood. It can usually be divided into primary (congenital) and secondary forms. The primary form presents in neonates, and the patients mostly die due to the respiratory distress, shortly after birth. The authors experienced two cases of primary CPL in a 13-day-old male neonate and a one-day-old male neonate, showing prominent lymphatic dilatation in the septal, subpleural, and peri-bronchial tissue throughout both lungs. The latter case was associated with congenital cardiac anomaly including single ventricle. These are unique cases of CPL in Korea of which the diagnosis was established through post-mortem examination. Therefore, the authors report these two cases with primary CPL with a review of the literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/fe/jkms-22-740.PMC2693831.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4498874", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Nephrolithiasis is a less common side effect of the antiepileptic drug topiramate. We report the case of a 3-year-old boy who presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain; examinations revealed a large calcification in the left kidney. Regular ultrasound examinations are recommended in children using topiramate.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0b/3e/ccr30003-0508.PMC4498874.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3219364", "abstract": "Percutaneous tracheostomy has become a routine procedure in most intensive care units, and point of care ultrasound is becoming used with greater frequency to augment diagnosis and therapy for critically ill patients. The case series from Rajajee and colleagues incorporates 'real-time' ultrasound in an effort to improve the safety of percutaneous tracheostomy. While their report does not prove that ultrasound should be used prior to or during all percutaneous tracheostomies, it does reinforce several important safety considerations concerning the anatomy of the neck, and in particular the potential to encounter bleeding complications during these procedures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/2d/PMC3219364.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4699512", "abstract": "Objective To define the risk factors for hearing loss in infants (aged 3 months) under universal hearing screening program. Materials and methods A total of 3,120 infants (aged 3 months) who underwent hearing screening using a universal hearing screening program using automated otoacoustic emission test between November 1, 2010 and May 31, 2012 in Uttaradit Hospital, Buddhachinaraj Hospital, and Sawanpracharuk Hospital (tertiary hospitals) located in Northern Thailand were included in this prospective cohort study. Results Of the 3,120 infants, 135 (4.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/45/3a/jmdh-9-001.PMC4699512.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3339323", "abstract": "Brain function depends on coordinated interactions between neurons and glial cells. Recent evidence indicates that these cells release endosome-derived microvesicles termed exosomes, which are 50–100 nm in size and carry specific protein and RNA cargo. Exosomes can interact with neighboring cells raising the concept that exosomes may mediate signaling between brain cells and facilitate the delivery of bioactive molecules. Oligodendrocytes myelinate axons and furthermore maintain axonal integrity by an yet uncharacterized pathway of trophic support. Here, we highlight the role of exosomes in nervous system cell communication with particular focus on exosomes released by oligodendrocytes and their potential implications in axon–glia interaction and myelin disease, such as multiple sclerosis. These secreted vesicles may contribute to eliminate overproduced myelin membrane or to transfer antigens facilitating immune surveillance of the brain. Furthermore, there is emerging evidence that exosomes participate in axon–glia communication.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/25/13/fphys-03-00119.PMC3339323.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4059258", "abstract": "Abstract The endosomal sorting complexes required for transport (ESCRT) are needed for three distinct cellular functions in higher eukaryotes: (i) Multivesicular body formation for the degradation of transmembrane proteins in lysosomes, (ii) midbody abscission during cytokinesis and (iii) retroviral budding. Not surprisingly, loss of ESCRT function has severe consequences, which include the failure to down-regulate growth factor receptors leading to deregulated mitogenic signaling. While it is clear that the function of the ESCRT machinery is important for embryonic development, its role in cancer is more controversial. Various experimental approaches in different model organisms arrive at partially divergent conclusions regarding the contribution of ESCRTs to tumorigenesis. Therefore the aim of this review is to provide an overview on different model systems used to study the role of the ESCRT machinery in cancer development, to highlight common grounds and present certain controversies in the field.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/3b/PMC4059258.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3804680", "abstract": "Gastrointestinal stromal tumor is a rare tumor which arises from the whole gastrointestinal tracts and most of it is detected in the stomach. It is uncommon with small intestine originated gastrointestinal stromal tumor and more uncommon with lymphatic metastasis. We experienced an unusual case of the small bowel gastrointestinal stromal tumor during experimental autopsy. Two primary tumors with central necrosis were detected in the ileum. The sizes of each tumor were 6.1×3.4×4.0 cm and 3.7×4.2×3.2 cm. There was extensive lymphatic metastasis on the greater omentum and mesenteric, iliac lymph nodes were also involved. With histologic findings, the eosinophilic spindle cells were densely distributed. Immunohistochemical findings were CD117 (-), CD34 (+), desmin (-), and S-100 protein (-). Therefore, we diagnosed the tumors as small bowel gastrointestinal stromal tumors with broad lymph node mestasis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b0/44/jgc-13-192.PMC3804680.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4718226", "abstract": "Abstract In 2006, a previous study at our institution reported high perioperative and anesthesia-related mortality rates of 21.97 and 1.12 per 10,000 anesthetics, respectively. Since then, changes in surgical practices may have decreased these rates. However, the actual perioperative and anesthesia-related mortality rates in Brazil remains unknown. The study aimed to reexamine perioperative and anesthesia-related mortality rates in one Brazilian tertiary teaching hospital. In this observational study, deaths occurring in the operation room and postanesthesia care unit between April 2005 and December 2012 were identified from an anesthesia database. The data included patient characteristics, surgical procedures, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status, and medical specialty teams, as well as the types of surgery and anesthesia. All deaths were reviewed and grouped by into 1 of 4 triggering factors groups: totally anesthesia-related, partially anesthesia-related, surgery-related, or disease/condition-related. The mortality rates are expressed per 10,000 anesthetics with 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d4/53/medi-95-e2208.PMC4718226.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5019930", "abstract": "Since the advent of insulin, the improvements in diabetes detection and the therapies to treat hyperglycemia have reduced the mortality of acute metabolic emergencies, such that today chronic complications are the major cause of morbidity and mortality among diabetic patients. More than half of the mortality that is seen in the diabetic population can be ascribed to cardiovascular disease (CVD), which includes not only myocardial infarction due to premature atherosclerosis but also diabetic cardiomyopathy. The importance of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) antagonism in the prevention of diabetic CVD has demonstrated the key role that the RAAS plays in diabetic CVD onset and development. Today, ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers represent the first line therapy for primary and secondary CVD prevention in patients with diabetes. Recent research has uncovered new dimensions of the RAAS and, therefore, new potential therapeutic targets against diabetic CVD. Here we describe the timeline of paradigm shifts in RAAS understanding, how diabetes modifies the RAAS, and what new parts of the RAAS pathway could be targeted in order to achieve RAAS modulation against diabetic CVD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/d5/PMC5019930.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5398289", "abstract": "Background: Pigmented paraganglioma is a special type of paraganglioma, and it is rare in the thyroid. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 41-year-old woman who had complained of a mass in the thyroid gland. Histology revealed tumor cells arranged in a nest-like or organoid pattern, separated by delicate fibrovascular septa. Two distinct components were observed. In the first, which constituted the majority of the tumor cells, no pigments were observed. In the second, a few cells with pigment showed intercellular substance, but the structure was unclear. Using immunohistochemistry, cells in the first component were confirmed to be diffuse strong positive for synaptophysin, but negative for chromogranin A, pan-cytokeratin, calcitonin, and thyroglobulin. About 1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b5/55/10.1177_1179555716684670.PMC5398289.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3756167", "abstract": "A 43-year-old man experienced chest trauma due to a car accident. Compound sternal fractures with severe dislocation were seen on computed tomography of the chest. Using a SternaLock plating system with manual reduction, fixation of the sternal fracture was successfully performed. There were no complications related to the operation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/79/d4/kjtcs-46-309.PMC3756167.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3199208", "abstract": " Background. The pharmacokinetics of many medications change as we age, thus most would assume dosing strategies would adjust for these changes. The objective of this study is to evaluate the initial vancomycin dosing in three pediatric age groups based on measured serum trough concentrations. Methodology. This retrospective database review included patients aged from 1 month to 18 years old admitted to the Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital. Patients had to have received vancomycin dosed at 15 mg/kg every 8 hours with an appropriately measured trough concentration. The primary outcome was to determine the percentage of patients in 3 pediatric age groups achieving therapeutic trough concentrations with the initial vancomycin dosing regimen. Results. Twenty-five patients were included in the study. None of the patients had therapeutic trough concentrations after receiving vancomycin 15 mg/kg every 8 hours. Only one patient had a supratherapeutic level, while all of the other patients had levels less than 10 mcg/mL. Conclusions. Vancomycin 15 mg/kg every 8 hours did not provide therapeutic serum trough concentrations for any pediatric age groups. Higher doses and/or more frequent dosing regimens need to be evaluated for each age group to determine the most appropriate strategies for producing therapeutic trough concentrations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4a/35/PMC3199208.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4789620", "abstract": "Background: Pain is one of the most common symptoms experienced by patients after surgeries. Inadequate postoperative pain management is an international problem and the need to improve its management is well documented. The aim of the study was to assess nursing reports related to the patients’ pain intensity and quality, concomitant symptoms, use of scales in pain assessment, and compliance with the national guideline after surgery. Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort; samples were nurse records of patients who had elective surgery. Result: Only 6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a7/a9/MSM-28-36.PMC4789620.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2788195", "abstract": "Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) were identified in 1980's, since then it has been intensively studied due to its various beneficial health effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic, anti-carcinogenic and anti-diabetic/obesity effects. Isomer specificity of a number of CLA isomers, especially predominant isomer 9Z,11E- and 10E,12Z-CLA, is now recognized. However, the less prevalent CLA isomers have not been well characterized. Recently, studies have reported the distinctively different effects of 9E,11E-CLA in colon cancer cells, endothelial cells, and macrophage cells compared to the rest of CLA isomers. In this review, various effects of CLAs, especially anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic effects, will be discussed with focusing on the isomer-specific effects and potential mechanism of action of CLA. At last, recent studies about 9E,11E-CLA in in vitro and animal models will be discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/8a/nrp-2-326.PMC2788195.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5065325", "abstract": "CrossFit is a metabolically demanding strength and conditioning method which performance may benefit from a carbohydrate (CHO)-rich diet. This study investigated the effect of three consecutive days of high CHO intake on CrossFit performance and corresponding metabolically -related variables in strength trained individuals. Eighteen subjects with a CHO intake of <6 g/kg/day were randomly assigned into a CHO (n = 9) or control (C) group (n =9) and underwent a 9-day training protocol. During days 1, 5, and 9, performance was measured as repetitions completed during a 12 minute CrossFit workout. Oxygen consumption (VO2), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), and blood lactate (BL) were also measured. Days 6–8, the CHO group increased CHO intake from <6 g/kg/day to 6–8 g/kg/day; the C group maintained their current intake of <6 g/kg/day. On days 6 and 7 both groups performed CrossFit workouts followed by a day of rest prior to day 9. There was a significant increase in repetitions completed in both groups in day 9 (vs. means score of day 1 + 5) (p = 0.002), but no differences between C and CHO groups (p = 0.111). However, the CHO group displayed a 15.2 repetition increase (+10.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ab/71/PMC5065325.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3440935", "abstract": " Introduction. Hepatocellular carcinoma is now known to arise in association with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. The aim of this study is to examine the clinicopathological features of this entity using liver resection cases at a large Western center. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed all cases of partial liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma over a 10-year period. We included for the purpose of this study patients with histological evidence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and excluded patients with other chronic liver diseases such as viral hepatitis and alcoholic liver disease. Results. We identified 9 cases in which malignancy developed against a parenchymal background of histologically-active nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. The median age at diagnosis was 58 (52–82) years, and 8 of the patients were male. Median body mass index was 30.2 (22.7–39.4) kg/m2. Hypertension was present in 77.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0d/62/PMC3440935.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4298346", "abstract": "Introduction Prior research has demonstrated that platelet count and inflammation are dominant contributors to hypercoagulability. Our objective is to determine whether elevated platelet count and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) have an association with the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in hospitalized patients with a high clinical index of suspicion for thromboembolic disease. Methods We performed a retrospective medical record review of 844 medical and surgical patients with suspected VTE hospitalized from July 2012 to May 2013 who underwent screening by venous duplex and computed tomography pulmonary angiogram. For our purposes, thrombocytosis was arbitrarily defined as platelet count ≥250×109/L. Results Venous thromboembolic disease was detected in 229 patients (25.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/54/b5/ijgm-8-037.PMC4298346.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3242708", "abstract": "Although some previous reports have described convulsive movements in bilateral paramedian thalamic and midbrain infarction, little is known about their nature. A 71-year-old man presented with impaired consciousness and clonic movements of both arms. Each series of movements lasted 10 to 20 s and occurred at 2-to 3-min intervals, which disappeared after intravenous administration of diazepam and phenytoin. Magnetic resonance imaging showed acute bilateral paramedian thalamic and midbrain infarction. A review of the literature revealed that convulsive movements were observed mostly at the onset of infarction. Clonic movements appeared frequently in the limbs, particularly in both arms. Clinical observations and results of animal experiments suggest that these seizures might originate from the mesencephalic reticular formation. Physicians should recognize this condition, because not only seizure control but also early management of ischemic stroke is required.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/77/bc/crn0003-0289.PMC3242708.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5355461", "abstract": "Historical innovations in mechanical thrombectomy devices and strategies for ischemic stroke have resulted in improved angiographic outcomes and better clinical outcomes. Various devices have been used, but the two most common approaches are aspiration thrombectomy and stent-retrieval thrombectomy. Aspiration thrombectomy has advanced from the traditional Penumbra system to forced arterial suction thrombectomy and a direct aspiration first-pass technique. Newer generation aspiration catheters with flexible distal tips and a larger bore have demonstrated faster and better recanalization relative to older devices. Recently, several species of distal access catheters have similar structural characteristics to the Penumbra reperfusion catheter. Therefore, we used the distal access catheter for forced arterial suction thrombectomy in three patients with acute ischemic stroke. In each case, we achieved fast and complete recanalization without significant complications. Forced arterial suction thrombectomy using a distal access catheter might provide another option for mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/d9/ni-12-45.PMC5355461.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3592754", "abstract": "The lack of racial and ethnic diversity in science, technology, engineering and mathematic or STEM fields requires immediate attention if the United States is to continue to compete in the global marketplace of ideas. Here, the argument is made for immediate action in four specific directions. First, we need to continue to recruit and incentivize the mentoring of a diverse pool of junior faculty. Second, we need to introduce Under-Represented Minority (URM) students to “science in practice” through our research labs as early as possible. Third, we need to provide the resources to allow URM students to succeed in STEM fields. Fourth and finally, we need to encourage students of all backgrounds to “reach back” and involve themselves in K-12 science education.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/34/35/PMC3592754.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5162411", "abstract": "We describe the first case of distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) associated with primary sclerosing cholangitis. A 26-year-old Lao-Thai male patient presented with severe jaundice, metabolic acidosis and hypokalaemia. He was diagnosed of dRTA. Liver transplantation resulted in correction of electrolyte disturbances and hyperbilirubinaemia. A fludrocortisone-furosemide test revealed normal urinary acidification, demonstrating no residual dRTA. This observation suggests that dRTA may be an early manifestation of bilirubin-associated nephropathy or the consequence of an immune mechanism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/0a/sfw085.PMC5162411.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3525217", "abstract": "The cytochrome P450 enzymes active in drug metabolism are highly polymorphic. Most allelic variants have been described for enzymes encoded by the cytochrome P450 family 2 (CYP2) gene family, which has 252 different alleles. The intronic polymorphisms in the cytochrome P450 genes account for only a small number of the important variant alleles; however, the most important ones are CYP2D6*4 and CYP2D6*41, which cause abolished and reduced CYP2D6 activity, respectively, and CYP3A5*3 and CYP3A5*5, common in Caucasian populations, which cause almost null activity. Their discoveries have been based on phenotypic alterations within individuals in a population, and their identification has, in several cases, been difficult and taken a long time. In light of the next-generation sequencing projects, it is anticipated that further alleles with intronic mutations will be identified that can explain the hitherto unidentified genetic basis of inter-individual differences in cytochrome P450-mediated drug and steroid metabolism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2b/ef/PMC3525217.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4034438", "abstract": "T-cell mediated drug hypersensitivity reactions may range from mild rash to severe fatal reactions. Among them, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) or drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DIHS), Stevens-Johnson syndrome/ toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), are some of the most life-threatening severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs). Recent advances in pharmacogenetic studies show strong genetic associations between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles and susceptibility to drug hypersensitivity. This review summarizes the literature on recent progresses in pharmacogenetic studies and clinical application of pharmacogenetic screening based on associations between SCARs and specific HLA alleles to avoid serious conditions associated with drug hypersensitivity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0c/bf/PMC4034438.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4013410", "abstract": "MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of highly abundant non-coding RNA molecules that are involved in several biological processes. Many miRNAs are often deregulated in several diseases including cancer. There is substantial interest in exploiting miRNAs for therapeutic applications. In this editorial, we briefly review current advances in the use of miRNAs or antisense oligonucleotides (antagomirs) for such therapies. One of the key issues related to therapy using miRNAs is degradation of naked particles in vivo. To overcome this limitation, delivery systems for miRNA-based therapeutic agents have been developed, which hold tremendous potential for improving therapeutic outcome of cancer patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/43/71/cjc-30-06-368.PMC4013410.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3154340", "abstract": "Suitability rate of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and the anatomic features causing unsuitability have not been well determined in Asian patients who have abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). In a single Korean center, a total of 191 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (maximal diameter ≥ 4 cm) were identified. Aortoiliac morphologic characteristics in contrast-enhanced computed tomography images were retrospectively reviewed to determine suitability for EVAR with four FDA-approved stent-grafts. AAA was considered ideally suitable for EVAR in 46.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/97/68/jkms-26-1047.PMC3154340.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3914498", "abstract": "A qualitative intervention was used to explore how older adults living in a long-term care environment (nursing home) understand hope and experience being participants in a group in which a hope intervention was carried out. A group project in which each session focused intentionally on a hope strategy was carried out with a convenience sample of 10 women (ages 75–99) who were members of an existing group. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis of the interviews (conducted before the group intervention was carried out and again at the end), field notes, and collaborative conversations regarding emerging themes. Findings from this study suggest that hope is not static and that it can change over time in response to one's situations and circumstances. Also evident in this study is the potential for using a group process in long-term care to foster hope in an intentional way to make it more visible in the lives of the residents and their environment suggesting that one is “never too old for hope.”", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/8a/PMC3914498.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2978933", "abstract": "Model-based approaches for combining gene expression data from multiple high throughput platforms can be sensitive to technological artifacts when the number of samples in each platform is small. This paper proposes simple tools for quantifying concordance in a small study of pancreatic cancer cells lines with an emphasis on visualizations that uncover intra- and inter-platform variation. Using this approach, we identify several transcripts from the integrative analysis whose over-or under-expression in pancreatic cancer cell lines was validated by qPCR.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7a/d9/PMC2978933.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5242451", "abstract": "Objective A previous study demonstrated that non-anthracycline-containing docetaxel plus cyclophosphamide (TC) regimen was inferior to docetaxel, anthracycline and cyclophosphamide (TAC) in neoadjuvant treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-(HER2)-positive breast cancer in a short-term follow-up. Herein, long-term follow-up survival outcomes have been investigated. Methods TNBC or HER2-positive patients were randomized to receive 6 cycles of TC or TAC neoadjuvant treatment. The primary endpoint was pathological complete remission (pCR). Secondary endpoints included clinical response rate, event-free survival (EFS), and overall survival (OS). Results A cohort of 96 patients consisted of 45 in TC and 51 in TAC arm. With a median follow-up period of 53 (range, 8–76) months, the patients achieving pCR post neoadjuvant chemotherapy exhibited superior EFS and OS than patients without pCR (P<0.05). TAC treatment resulted in consistently better EFS than TC treatment: the estimated 5-year EFS was 66.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/27/cjcr-28-6-561.PMC5242451.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4247912", "abstract": " Background. We aimed to evaluate a relationship between platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Methods. A total of 354 patients with angiographically confirmed coronary blockages were enrolled in the study. Hematological indices and lipid profiling data of all the patients were collected. Results. We have observed significant association between HDL and PLR (P = 0.008) and NLR (P = 0.009); however no significant relationship was obtained with HDL and isolated platelet (P = 0.488), neutrophil (P = 0.407), and lymphocyte (P = 0.952) counts in CAD patients. The association was subjected to gender specific variation as in males PLR (P = 0.024) and NLR (P = 0.03) were highly elevated in low HDL patients, whereas in females the elevation could not reach the statistically significant level. The PLR (217.47 versus 190.3; P = 0.01) and NLR (6.33 versus 5.10; P = 0.01) were significantly higher among the patients with acute coronary syndrome. In young patients the PLR (P = 0.007) and NLR (P = 0.001) were inversely associated with HDL, whereas in older population only NLR (P = 0.05) had showed a significant association. Conclusion. We conclude that PLR and NLR are significantly elevated in CAD patients having low HDL levels.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/93/1c/PMC4247912.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4603408", "abstract": "The five B-subunits (CTB5) of the Vibrio cholerae (cholera) toxin can bind to the intestinal cell surface so the entire AB5 toxin can enter the cell. Simultaneous binding can occur on more than one of the monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (GM1) units present on the cell surface. Such simultaneous binding arising from the toxins multivalency is believed to enhance its affinity. Thus, blocking the initial attachment of the toxin to the cell surface using inhibitors with GM1 subunits has the potential to stop the disease. Previously we showed that tetravalent GM1 molecules were sub-nanomolar inhibitors of CTB5. In this study, we synthesized a pentavalent version and compared the binding and potency of penta- and tetravalent cholera toxin inhibitors, based on the same scaffold, for the first time. The pentavalent geometry did not yield major benefits over the tetravalent species, but it was still a strong inhibitor, and no major steric clashes occurred when binding the toxin. Thus, systems which can adopt more geometries, such as those described here, can be equally potent, and this may possibly be due to their ability to form higher-order structures or simply due to more statistical options for binding.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/2c/open0004-0471.PMC4603408.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4859356", "abstract": "Background We aimed to assess trends in hospitalization, outcomes, and resource utilization among patients admitted with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD). Methods and Results We used the 2003–2012 US Nationwide Inpatient Sample for this study. All admissions with an ACHD were identified using standard ICD codes. Resource utilization was assessed using length of stay, invasive procedure utilization, and cost of hospitalization. There was a significant increase in the number of both simple (101", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ed/c1/JAH3-5-e002330.PMC4859356.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3065572", "abstract": "A 42-year-old man has been under long-term follow-up since he was a child for congenital glaucoma and buphthalmos in both eyes. His left eye best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was counting fingers, due to end-stage glaucoma. He was on maximal medical therapy with an intraocular pressure (IOP) maintained at mid to low twenties. His right eye, the only seeing eye, had a BCVA of 6/9. This eye had undergone multiple glaucoma laser and surgical procedures, including an initial first Molteno drainage device inserted superonasally that failed in April 2003 due to fibrotic membrane over the tube opening. As a result, he subsequently had a second Molteno drainage device inserted inferotemporally. To further maximize his vision he had an uncomplicated cataract extraction and intraocular lens implant in December 2004, after which he developed postoperative cystoid macular edema and corneal endothelial failure. He underwent a penetrating keratoplasty in the right eye thereafter in March 2007. After approximately a year, the second Molteno device developed drainage tube retraction, which was managed surgically to maintain optimum IOP in the right eye. His right eye vision to date is maintained at 6/12.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6b/a6/PMC3065572.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4190824", "abstract": " Background. This paper investigates two issues: do ethnic/racial groups with high HIV prevalences also have higher prevalences of other STIs? and is HIV prevalence by ethnic group correlated with the prevalence of circumcision, concurrency, or having more than one partner in the preceding year? Methods. We used Spearman's correlation to estimate the association between the prevalence of HIV per ethnic/racial group and HSV-2, syphilis, symptoms of an STI, having more than one partner in the past year, concurrency, and circumcision in Kenya, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Results. We found that in each country HSV-2, syphilis, and symptomatic STIs were positively correlated with HIV prevalence (HSV-2: Kenya rho = 0.50, P = 0.207; South Africa rho-1, P = 0.000; USA rho-1, P = 0.000, Syphilis: Kenya rho = 0.33, P = 0.420; South Africa rho-1, P = 0.000; USA rho-1, P = 0.000, and STI symptoms: Kenya rho = 0.92, P = 0.001; South Africa rho-1, P = 0.000; UK rho = 0.87, P = 0.058; USA rho-1, P = 0.000). The prevalence of circumcision was only negatively associated with HIV prevalence in Kenya. Both having more than one partner in the previous year and concurrency were positively associated with HIV prevalence in all countries (concurrency: Kenya rho = 0.79, P = 0.036; South Africa rho-1, P = 0.000; UK 0.87, P = 0.058; USA rho-1, P = 0.000 and multiple partners: Kenya rho = 0.82, P = 0.023; South Africa rho-1, P = 0.000; UK rho = 0.87, P = 0.058; USA rho-1, P = 0.000). Not all associations were statistically significant. Conclusion. Further attention needs to be directed to what determines higher rates of partner change and concurrency in communities with high STI prevalence.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f6/fe/PMC4190824.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4339154", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of aquatic exercises on nonspecific low back pain (LBP) in elderly males. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty-two elderly men aged 65 or older were recruited and randomly allocated to two groups: aquatic training (3 d/wk for 12 wk) or a control group. Body mass index (BMI), percentage of body fat (PBF), waist-hip ratio (WHR), and trunk muscle mass were measured before and after training. [Results] The results suggested that all obesity variables including BMI, WHR, and PBF of the aquatic training group were decreased significantly, while the trunk muscle mass of the aquatic training group was increased significantly. Furthermore, low back pain was decreased in the subjects after the intervention. [Conclusion] The water-based program improved LBP and body composition in the elderly men.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/61/jpts-27-433.PMC4339154.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5174180", "abstract": "Equine inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) represent a spectrum of chronic inflammatory disease of the airways in horses resembling human asthma in many aspects. Therefore, both are now described as severity grades of equine asthma. Increasing evidence in horses and humans suggests that local pulmonary inflammation is influenced by systemic inflammatory processes and the other way around. Inflammation, coagulation, and fibrinolysis as well as extracellular remodeling show close interactions. Cytology of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and tracheal wash is commonly used to evaluate the severity of local inflammation in the lung. Other mediators of inflammation, like interleukins involved in the chemotaxis of neutrophils, have been studied. Chronic obstructive pneumopathies lead to remodeling of bronchial walls and lung parenchyma, ultimately causing fibrosis. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are discussed as the most important proteolytic enzymes during remodeling in human medicine and increasing evidence exists for the horse as well. A systemic involvement has been shown for severe equine asthma by increased acute phase proteins like serum amyloid A and haptoglobin in peripheral blood during exacerbation. Studies focusing on these and further possible inflammatory markers for chronic respiratory disease in the horse are discussed in this review of the literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bc/7f/PMC5174180.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4154284", "abstract": "Sarcoidosis is a multisystem noncaseating granulomatous disease with a propensity for lung, eye, and skin which recently have been proposed that mycobacterium tuberculosis may contribute in its pathogenesis, and rarely involves central nervous system (CNS). Despite CD4+ lymphocytopenia, sarcoidosis by itself does not increase risk of opportunistic infections other than cryptococcosis. Nonetheless, simultaneous association of CNS cryptococcosis and tuberculosis infection remains extremely rare event in immunocompetent states, and has not been reported in sarcoidosis yet. We here presented such a case in a 42 years old man, a known case of sarcoidosis with diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties were encountered in a fourteen-month-long hospitalization period.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/49/09/mjiri-28-22.PMC4154284.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3806672", "abstract": "Etoposide is commonly used in the treatment of a variety of neoplasms. Hypersensitivity reactions to etoposide are infrequently reported and include hypotension, hypertension, flushing, diaphoresis, chest discomfort, dyspnea, bronchospasm and loss of consciousness. We report the case of a 39-year-old woman who experienced acute bronchospasm, tachycardia, hypoxia and hypotension. The symptoms resolved within an hour after administration of intravenous fluids, methylprednisolone, diphenhydramine and oxygen. Subsequently, the patient was given etoposide phosphate without incident.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/53/50/cro-0006-0490.PMC3806672.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4675647", "abstract": "Background Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activity has been associated with chemotherapy resistance and poor outcomes in patients with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). The aim of this study was to develop an immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay to assess GR expression in archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded human invasive breast carcinoma samples. Methods An optimized GR assay protocol was developed using rabbit monoclonal antibody to GR clone D8H2. Precision and reproducibility of the GR IHC assay was determined by conducting multiple staining runs of four invasive breast carcinoma samples using replicate serial sections. Assay sensitivity was examined in 50 TNBC samples (>10 mm) obtained from a tumor bank, and 43 paired TNBC samples from a tissue microarray (TMA) (1.5 mm). GR positivity was assessed using a percent scoring approach with a ≥10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bc/02/cmar-7-361.PMC4675647.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4884852", "abstract": " Objective. To assess dietary-related habits among young adults. Design and Setting. Dietary habits were assessed cross-sectionally, using a self-completed questionnaire in 193 students enrolled in public and private universities in Cyprus. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was evaluated using the validated KIDMED index. BMI was estimated based on weight and height measurements. Results. The mean BMI was 23.31 (±3.98). The mean adherence score to the Mediterranean diet was 6.0 (IQR 4 to 8), with 26.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b5/c8/PMC4884852.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4937134", "abstract": "Sexual dimorphism of the craniodental morphology of the Eurasian otter in South Korea was studied with geometric morphometrics. 29 adult skulls (15 males and 14 females) were used. Images of the dorsal and ventral view of the cranium and right lateral view of the mandible were taken and then digitized, and measurements were taken on the right side. Results showed that size difference between males and females was significant. Correlations between the size and shape variations have not been observed in this study. The bivariate plots with centroid size showed size dimorphism between males and females with some overlapping. Most relative warp (RW) scores were not significantly different between males and females. We observed only RW2 for dorsal and ventral view of the skull, and only RW1 for mandible was significantly different between the sexes. Shape dimorphisms were revealed at the postorbital constriction, temporal-mandibular joint, coronoid process, mandibular condyle and angular process of the skull. Based on our study, sexual dimorphism exists in Eurasian otter from the South Korean population in terms of both the size and shape. Furthermore, the degree of size dimorphism is greater than shape dimorphism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/7f/jvms-78-1007.PMC4937134.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4664487", "abstract": "The main first-line treatment strategy for glaucoma is to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) by topical ocular hypotensive medications, but many patients require multiple medications for adequate IOP control. Fixed-combination therapies provide several benefits, including simplified treatment regimens, theoretical improved treatment adherence, elimination of the potential for washout of the first drug by the second, and the reduction in ocular exposure to preservatives. β-Adrenoceptor antagonists (particularly 0.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/e3/opth-9-2201.PMC4664487.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5364755", "abstract": "Introduction: One of the important tasks in managing labor is the protection of perineum. An important variable affecting this outcome is maternal pushing during the second stage of labor. This study was done to investigate the effect of breathing technique on perineal damage extention in laboring Iranian women. Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was performed on 166 nulliparous pregnant women who had reached full-term pregnancy, had low risk pregnancy, and were candidates for vaginal delivery in two following groups: using breathing techniques (case group) and valsalva maneuver (control group). In the control group, pushing was done with holding the breath. In the case group, the women were asked to take 2 deep abdominal breaths at the onset of pain, then take another deep breath, and push 4–5 seconds with the open mouth while controlling exhalation. From the crowning stage onward, the women were directed to control their pushing, and do the blowing technique. Results: According to the results, intact perineum was more observed in the case group (P = 0.002). Posterior tears (Grade 1, 2, and 3) was considerably higher in the control group (P = 0.003). Anterior tears (labias) and episiotomy were not significantly different in the two groups. Conclusions: It was concluded that breathing technique of blowing can be a good alternative to Valsalva maneuver in order to reduce perineal damage in laboring women.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/0e/IJNMR-22-62.PMC5364755.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4908262", "abstract": " Purpose. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of all-trans retinoic acid-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (ATRA-NLCs) on the zymosan-induced expression of the cytokines IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ and the matrix metalloproteinases/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (MMPs/TIMPs) and TLR2 in rabbit corneal fibroblasts (RCFs). Methods. ATRA-NLCs were prepared by emulsification. RCFs were isolated and harvested after four to seven passages in monolayer culture. Cytokine release (IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ) induced by zymosan was analyzed by cytokine release assay, reverse transcription, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis detection. MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-13, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2, and TLR2 expression were analyzed by immunoblotting. Results. ATRA-NLCs were resistant to light and physically stable, and the average size of the ATRA-NLCs was 200 nm. ATRA-NLCs increased the zymosan-induced release of IL-4 and IL-10 and decreased the release of IFN-γ by RCFs. ATRA-NLCs decreased the levels of TLR2 and MMPs/TIMPs above. Conclusions. ATRA may be a potent anti-inflammatory agent for the therapy of fungal keratitis (FK).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a0/99/PMC4908262.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4348077", "abstract": "As we continue to care for an older and sicker end-stage heart failure population, it has become challenging to evaluate patients based on current risk scores that mainly focus on subjective symptoms and patient disability. For generations, geriatricians have sought to identify the body’s underlying vulnerabilities that characterize frailty. More recently, cardiologists have begun to recognize this entity in their own practice. Several studies have suggested rates of frailty as high as 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b8/e6/PMC4348077.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4351418", "abstract": "Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors that includes obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Accumulating evidence implies that MetS contributes to the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, the factors connecting this association have not been determined. Insulin resistance (IR) is at the core of MetS and likely represent the key link between MetS and AD. In the central nervous system, insulin plays key roles in learning and memory, and AD patients exhibit impaired insulin signaling that is similar to that observed in MetS. As we face an alarming increase in obesity and T2D in all age groups, understanding the relationship between MetS and AD is vital for the identification of potential therapeutic targets. Recently, several diabetes therapies that enhance insulin signaling are being tested for a potential therapeutic benefit in AD and dementia. In this review, we will discuss MetS as a risk factor for AD, focusing on IR and the recent progress and future directions of insulin-based therapies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/85/emm20153a.PMC4351418.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5140833", "abstract": "[Purpose] To determine the preoperative self-reported and performance-based physical function of patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis who awaited total knee arthroplasty. The preoperative physical performance factors that predicted self-reported physical function and quality of life were also identified. [Subjects and Methods] All adults with end-stage knee osteoarthritis awaiting surgery were enrolled. Before surgery, self-reported disease-specific physical function and self-reported pain were measured using the Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, self-reported quality of life was measured using the EuroQOL five dimensions questionnaire, and physical performance tests were performed, the 6 minute walk test, the timed up-and-go test, instrumental gait analysis, and measurement of isometric knee flexor and extensor strength of the surgical and nonsurgical knees. [Results] In total, 55 adults (49 females; 73.3 ± 6.1 years) were included. This study showed that several preoperative self-reported and physical performance factors were predictive of self-reported physical function and quality of life. [Conclusion] In patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis, preoperative pain and dynamic balance ability were the most powerful predictors of self-reported physical function. Preoperative pain and exercise tolerance were the most powerful predictors of quality of life. Preoperative rehabilitation strategies that focus on dynamic balance, aerobic, and resistance exercises may improve surgical outcomes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/e5/jpts-28-3220.PMC5140833.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3980923", "abstract": " Objective. To determine the correlation between maternal bile acid (BA) level and fetal pulmonary surfactant in rats and study the effects of BA on fetal lung in rat model of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.  Methods. Forty pregnant rats were treated with (A) 5.5 mg/kg BA, (B) 1.4 mg/kg BA, and (C) 1 ml physiological saline. Levels of total bile acid (TBA), ALT, AST, TBIL, DBIL, and SP-A were determined and the lungs of fetal rats were analyzed for pathological changes.  Results. Groups A and B intervened with BA showed significant higher level of TBA in both maternal and fetal serum, more mortality rate of fetal rats, more concentration of SP-A in fetal serum, and wider alveolus mesenchyme of fetal rats than the control Group C. Higher level of BA associated with increased fetal risk and lower numerical density of mitochondria in type II alveolar epithelial cells. The levels of TBA in maternal serum were found to have significant positive correlation with those in fetal serum and SP-A level but negatively with the area of alveolus and the numerical density of lamellar body.  Conclusions. The TBA level in maternal serum showed significant association with lung pathological changes in fetal rats.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ef/22/PMC3980923.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4395668", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of smartphones by university students in selected areas, their musculoskeletal symptoms, and the associated hazard ratio. [Subjects and Methods] This involved the completion of a self-administered questionnaire by dental hygiene students in Seoul, Gyeonggido, and Gyeongsangbukdo. The 292 completed copies of the questionnaire were then analyzed. [Results] The most painful body regions after the use of smartphones were found to be the shoulders and neck. In the musculoskeletal system, back pain was found to have a positive correlation with the size of the smartphone’s liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, and pain in legs and feet were found to have a negative correlation with the length of time that the smartphone was used. As a result, it was revealed that the use of a smartphone was correlated with musculoskeletal symptoms. [Conclusion] Therefore, in today’s environment, where the use of smartphones is on the rise, it is necessary to improve the ways that they are used and to develop a preventive program to alleviate the symptoms of musculoskeletal damage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/6b/jpts-27-575.PMC4395668.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3656669", "abstract": "Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a progressive liver disease for which limited therapies are recommended. Rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, is expected to be a useful therapeutic regimen for PBC. Previous studies indicated biochemical and immunological improvement in PBC after rituximab treatment. Although rituximab shows therapeutic potential for PBC, few cases have been reported and histological improvement and long-term outcome remain uncertain. Here, we report a case of PBC in a 66-year-old Japanese female patient who presented with a gastric lymphoma and who had been treated with a regimen containing rituximab for incidental malignant lymphoma. She showed biochemical and immunological improvements, and liver histology before and after rituximab treatment confirmed a decrease in liver inflammation. However, she developed liver cirrhosis a short time after rituximab treatment without biochemical or immunological worsening. Rituximab treatment for PBC might be considered and careful observation is required after treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/fe/crg-0007-0195.PMC3656669.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4227808", "abstract": "The mechanism for activation of orotidine 5′-monophosphate decarboxylase (OMPDC) by interactions of side chains from Gln215 and Try217 at a gripper loop and R235, adjacent to this loop, with the phosphodianion of OMP was probed by determining the kinetic parameters kcat and Km for all combinations of single, double, and triple Q215A, Y217F, and R235A mutations. The 12 kcal/mol intrinsic binding energy of the phosphodianion is shown to be equal to the sum of the binding energies of the side chains of R235 (6 kcal/mol), Q215 (2 kcal/mol), Y217 (2 kcal/mol), and hydrogen bonds to the G234 and R235 backbone amides (2 kcal/mol). Analysis of a triple mutant cube shows small (ca. 1 kcal/mol) interactions between phosphodianion gripper side chains, which are consistent with steric crowding of the side chains around the phosphodianion at wild-type OMPDC. These mutations result in the same change in the activation barrier to the OMPDC-catalyzed reactions of the whole substrate OMP and the substrate pieces (1-β-d-erythrofuranosyl)orotic acid (EO) and phosphite dianion. This shows that the transition states for these reactions are stabilized by similar interactions with the protein catalyst. The 12 kcal/mol intrinsic phosphodianion binding energy of OMP is divided between the 8 kcal/mol of binding energy, which is utilized to drive a thermodynamically unfavorable conformational change of the free enzyme, resulting in an increase in (kcat)obs for OMPDC-catalyzed decarboxylation of OMP, and the 4 kcal/mol of binding energy, which is utilized to stabilize the Michaelis complex, resulting in a decrease in (Km)obs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b3/cb/PMC4227808.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4815931", "abstract": "Between January 2013 and December 2014, we conducted laboratory-based surveillance of pertussis using multitarget real-time PCR, which discriminates among Bordetella pertussis, Bordetella parapertussis, Bordetella holmesii and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Of 355 patients clinically diagnosed with pertussis in Japan, B. pertussis, B. parapertussis and M. pneumoniae were detected in 26", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/78/fa/main.PMC4815931.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2904442", "abstract": "A full-term female newborn with neonatal asphyxia and severe anemia (Hb 2.5 g/dL) with normal heart developed a massive myocardial infarction. No examinations were performed during pregnancy for parental nomadism. The baby had immediate external cardiac massage, ventilatory assistance, and blood transfusion. Cardiomegaly was evident at chest X-ray and marked signs of ischemia-lesion at ECG. Echocardiography showed dilated, hypertrophic, and hypocontractile left ventricle (LV), mitral and tricuspid regurgitation, and moderate pericardial effusion. Rh isoimmunization and infective agents were excluded at laboratory tests. Despite the treatment with inotropes, hydrocortisone, and furosemide, the baby worsened and died at 45 hours of life. Postmortem examination showed diffuse subendocardial infarction of LV and diffuse parenchymal hemorrhages and myocardial hypertrophy, increase of eosinophilia, and polymorphonucleated cells at histology. Our patient suffered apparently from longstanding fetal anemia of unknown etiology that led to perinatal distress, severe hypoxia, and massive myocardial infarction, unresponsive to the therapy.  ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/34/85/PMC2904442.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3863536", "abstract": " Purpose. To investigate the diagnostic accuracy of machine learning classifiers (MLCs) using retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and optic nerve (ON) parameters obtained with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Methods. Fifty-seven patients with early to moderate primary open angle glaucoma and 46 healthy patients were recruited. All 103 patients underwent a complete ophthalmological examination, achromatic standard automated perimetry, and imaging with SD-OCT. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were built for RNFL and ON parameters. Ten MLCs were tested. Areas under ROC curves (aROCs) obtained for each SD-OCT parameter and MLC were compared. Results. The mean age was 56.5 ± 8.9 years for healthy individuals and 59.9 ± 9.0 years for glaucoma patients (P = 0.054). Mean deviation values were −1.4 dB for healthy individuals and −4.0 dB for glaucoma patients (P < 0.001). SD-OCT parameters with the greatest aROCs were cup/disc area ratio (0.846) and average cup/disc (0.843). aROCs obtained with classifiers varied from 0.687 (CTREE) to 0.877 (RAN). The aROC obtained with RAN (0.877) was not significantly different from the aROC obtained with the best single SD-OCT parameter (0.846) (P = 0.542). Conclusion. MLCs showed good accuracy but did not improve the sensitivity and specificity of SD-OCT for the diagnosis of glaucoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/5a/PMC3863536.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4003435", "abstract": "Surgery is the primary treatment for endometrial cancer, with radiation therapy having an established place in the adjuvant treatment setting. However, there is a population of patients with endometrial cancer who may not be suitable for surgery and primary radiation therapy as a treatment option. This article describes the place of radiotherapy in the management of endometrial cancer and describes the author's own experiences with primary brachytherapy in those patients who are unsuitable for surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d8/59/JCB-6-22587.PMC4003435.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3132611", "abstract": "Eukaryotic methylotrophs, which are able to obtain all the carbon and energy needed for growth from methanol, are restricted to a limited number of yeast species. When these yeasts are grown on methanol as the sole carbon and energy source, the enzymes involved in methanol metabolism are strongly induced, and the membrane-bound organelles, peroxisomes, which contain key enzymes of methanol metabolism, proliferate massively. These features have made methylotrophic yeasts attractive hosts for the production of heterologous proteins and useful model organisms for the study of peroxisome biogenesis and degradation. In this paper, we describe recent insights into the molecular basis of yeast methylotrophy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/fc/PMC3132611.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4527787", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message We report a case of TTP in a sickle cell/β+-thalassemia heterozygote with nonspecific complaints and a evidence of hemolysis, initially attributed to sickle crisis. Included in this case is a discussion of the development of functional hyposplenism, a rarely reported complication, limitation of ADAMTS-13 in diagnosis, and the use of platelet transfusion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4f/d6/ccr30003-0521.PMC4527787.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5020401", "abstract": "Background Hepatitis B is the most common cause of liver disease, and medical students are a risk group for the disease given their future occupations. Objectives The aim of the study was to assess of predictors of hepatitis B in the Faculty of nursing, midwifery and health at Shahrekord Islamic Azad University in 2014. Materials and Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted with 300 students from the Faculty of nursing, midwifery and health at Shahrekord Islamic Azad University. The students answered questionnaires with items covering demographic characteristics, individual knowledge, public risk perception, perceived personal risk, and behavioral intentions regarding hepatitis B. The data were analyzed with SPSS version 18 software. Results The mean knowledge score of the students was 4.77 ± 1.71, the mean public risk perception score was 24.22 ± 3.44, the mean perceived personal risk score was 6.51 ± 1.97, and the mean behavioral intention score was 12.06 ± 2.97. There were significant differences in the mean knowledge scores in terms of gender, level of awareness, and level of education. There were also differences in the mean behavioral intention scores in terms of gender and field of study, the mean perceived personal risk scores in terms of level of education and field of study, and the mean public risk perception scores in terms of field of study. Conclusions According to the results of this study, it is necessary to implement educational intervention in order to allow students to identify risk factors and overcome barriers to understanding the implications of the disease in this context.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/60/hepatmon-16-07-35058.PMC5020401.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897257", "abstract": " Objective. A cross-cultural comparative study was developed that surveyed university students in Atlanta (United States), New Delhi (India), and Newcastle upon Tyne (United Kingdom) to understand the prevalence and perspectives of CAM in three urban societies with different healthcare systems. Design. Surveys were sent to students in the three aforementioned cities. Survey distribution occurred over 6 months from May to November 2015. A total of 314 surveys were received. Results. Dietary and vitamin supplements had the highest prevalence collectively (n = 203), followed by meditation, yoga, and massage. Commentary analysis showed the importance of science and evidence in justifying CAM practice. Conclusions. Matching the most prevalent practices with their designated NCCAM categories suggested that the students were attracted to biologically based, body-based, and mind-body practices as the central themes of attraction. Selected and prevalent CAM practices suggested the students' desire to maintain physical and mental fitness. Access to healthcare may have influence on the prevalence of CAM. Indian students were more likely to view CAM as a viable alternative to conventional medicine. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ab/d3/PMC4897257.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3364019", "abstract": "Pulmonary surfactant is a mixture of lipids and proteins that covers alveolar surfaces and keeps alveoli from collapsing. Four specific proteins have been identified in surfactant. Among them, two C-type lectins, surfactant proteins A and D (SP-A and SP-D), are known to be implicated in host defense and regulation of inflammatory responses of the lung. These host defense lectins are structurally characterized by N-terminal collagen-like domains and lectin domains and are called pulmonary collectins. They prevent dissemination of infectious microbes by their biological activities including agglutination and growth inhibition. They also promote clearance of microbes by enhancing phagocytosis in macrophages. In addition, they interact with the other pattern-recognition molecules, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and TLR-associated molecules, CD14 and MD-2, and regulate inflammatory responses. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated that these collectins modulate functions of neutrophil-derived innate immune molecules by interacting with them. These findings indicate that pulmonary collectins play critical roles in host defense of the lung.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/69/12/PMC3364019.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3873067", "abstract": "Assemblages of macroalgae are believe to be among the most productive ecosystems in the world, yet difficulties in obtaining direct estimates of biomass and primary production have led to few macroalgal data sets from which the consequences of long-term change can be assessed. We evaluated the validity of using two easily measured population variables (frond density and plant density) to estimate the more difficult to measure variables of standing crop and net primary production (NPP) in the giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera off southern California. Standing crop was much more strongly correlated to frond density than to plant density. Frond density data collected in summer were particularly useful for estimating annual NPP, explaining nearly 80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/a5/227_2009_Article_1238.PMC3873067.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3739816", "abstract": "The peripheral axons of vertebrate tactile somatosensory neurons travel long distances from ganglia just outside the central nervous system to the skin. Once in the skin these axons form elaborate terminals whose organization must be regionally patterned to detect and accurately localize different kinds of touch stimuli. This review describes key studies that identified choice points for somatosensory axon growth cones and the extrinsic molecular cues that function at each of those steps. While much has been learned in the past 20 years about the guidance of these axons, there is still much to be learned about how the peripheral axons of different kinds of somatosensory neurons adopt different trajectories and form specific terminal structures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/7e/cam-7-388.PMC3739816.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2894243", "abstract": "Individual InAs/GaAs quantum dots are studied by micro-photoluminescence. By varying the strength of an applied external magnetic field and/or the temperature, it is demonstrated that the charge state of a single quantum dot can be tuned. This tuning effect is shown to be related to the in-plane electron and hole transport, prior to capture into the quantum dot, since the photo-excited carriers are primarily generated in the barrier.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/39/1556-276X-5-1150.PMC2894243.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3498073", "abstract": "Small GTPases of the Ras superfamily are important regulators of many cellular functions, including signal transduction, cytoskeleton assembly, metabolic regulation, organelle biogenesis and intracellular transport. Most GTPases act as binary switches, being “on” in the active, GTP-bound state and “off” in the inactive, GDP-bound state, and cycle between the two states with the aid of accessory proteins, referred to as guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) and GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs). This review will focus on the ADP-ribosylation factors (Arfs), a family of G-proteins that are essential regulators of carrier vesicle formation during vesicular transport. As for most other GTPases, the Arfs themselves are vastly outnumbered by the proteins that regulate them, and a major focus in the field has been to define the functional relationships between individual GEFs and GAPs and their substrates at the cellular level. Over the years, a variety of methods have been developed to measure GTPase activation in vitro and in vivo. In vitro analysis will be discussed in the accompanying article by Randazzo and colleagues. Here we will focus on cell- and tissue-based assays and their advantages/disadvantages relative to cell-free systems.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/45/5f/cl-2-147.PMC3498073.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3872101", "abstract": " Purpose. To evaluate the presence of hyperreflective spots (HRS) in diabetic patients without clinically detectable retinopathy (no DR) or with nonproliferative mild to moderate retinopathy (DR) without macular edema, and compare the results to controls. Methods. 36 subjects were enrolled: 12 with no DR, 12 with DR, and 12 normal subjects who served as controls. All studied subjects underwent full ophthalmologic examination and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). SD-OCT images were analyzed to measure and localize HRS. Each image was analyzed by two independent, masked examiners.  Results. The number of HRS was significantly higher in both diabetics without and with retinopathy versus controls (P < 0.05) and in diabetics with retinopathy versus diabetics without retinopathy (P < 0.05). The HRS were mainly located in the inner retina layers (inner limiting membrane, ganglion cell layer, and inner nuclear layer). The intraobserver and interobserver agreement was almost perfect (κ > 0.9). Conclusions. SD-OCT hyperreflective spots are present in diabetic eyes even when clinical retinopathy is undetectable. Their number increases with progressing retinopathy. Initially, HRS are mainly located in the inner retina, where the resident microglia is present. With progressing retinopathy, HRS reach the outer retinal layer. HRS may represent a surrogate of microglial activation in diabetic retina.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/d5/PMC3872101.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4667121", "abstract": "Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis (MRH) is a rare systemic disease, which commonly manifests as muco-cutaneous papulonodules and inflammatory erosive polyarthropathy. In this research, we report the clinical manifestations and management of a rare case of MRH with destructive arthropathy of bilateral hip joints and arthritis mutilans presenting with characteristic deformities. Disabling hip arthropathy that occurs secondary to MRH can be successfully managed with bilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA). Osteopenia and acetabular bone defects must be anticipated during THA. This case is reported due to its rare occurrence and because little literature has been published regarding THA in such patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/eb/0e/cios-7-509.PMC4667121.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3221053", "abstract": "The prostate gland is the most common site of neoplastic disorders in men. The pathogenesis of inflammatory cells, prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) lesions, and prostate cancer is still under investigation. Inflammatory cells by producing free radicals are considered as major and universal contributors to cancerogenesis. PIN is regarded as a precursor lesion to prostate cancer or a marker signaling the vulnerability of the epithelium to neoplastic transformation. Differentiation markers that are frequently changed in early invasive carcinoma are also changed in PIN lesions. In this study, prostate tissue samples obtained during surgical operation and classified as various disease states (inflammation, PIN lesions, and cancer) were examined. The samples were measured by means of microbeam synchrotron-radiation-induced X-ray emission (micro-SRIXE). Special attention was paid to examine the relationship between the earlier-mentioned disorders and changes in relative concentrations of S, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn. Applying the image-processing program ImageJ enabled us to select the areas of interest from two-dimensional maps of various prostate samples according to the histopathologist’s evaluation. Detailed analysis of micro-SRIXE spectra based on multivariate methods shows significant differences between elemental concentrations in inflammatory cells, PIN lesions, and cancerous tissues, which confirms that this method can be used to distinguish various pathological states in prostate tissues. Information obtained in this way may provide better understanding of the biochemistry of unhealthy prostate tissues, thus opening the way to find new medicines/treatments to prevent or slow down some harmful intracellular processes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/f1/775_2011_Article_807.PMC3221053.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4540822", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between fracture and quality of life in Korean adults receiving treatment for osteoporosis based on the 2010 Korean Community Health Survey (KCHS). [Subjects and Methods] This study utilized the raw data of the 2010 KCHS. In the survey, osteoporosis was assessed in 228,903 subjects, excluding 326 for whom there was insufficient data. There were 17,387 subjects with osteoporosis confirmed by a doctor’s diagnosis and 9,419 of them were being treated for osteoporosis at the time of the survey. [Results] Among the patients being treated, those with fractures had a significantly lower QOL than patients who did not experience fractures. The lower QOL scores were caused by hip, vertebral and wrist fractures, and in all cases, QOL was significantly lower. Greater numbers of fractures significantly lowered QOL scores compared to participants without fractures. [Conclusion] Fractures in patients receiving treatment for osteoporosis have a direct impact on QOL. Among the different types of fractures, hip fractures resulted in the lowest scores. Therefore, to avoid additional fractures caused by inappropriate management of osteoporosis, we suggest that there is a need to improve fall related self-efficacy and prevention programs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/67/jpts-27-2083.PMC4540822.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3350967", "abstract": "Islet cell transplantation offers a potential cure for type 1 diabetes, but it is challenged by insufficient donor tissue and side effects of current immunosuppressive drugs. Therefore, alternative sources of insulin-producing cells and isletfriendly immunosuppression are required to increase the efficiency and safety of this procedure. Beta cells can be transdifferentiated from precursors or another heterologous (non-beta-cell) source. Recent advances in beta cell regeneration from somatic cells such as fibroblasts could circumvent the usage of immunosuppressive drugs. Therefore, generation of patient-specific beta cells provides the potential of an evolutionary treatment for patients with diabetes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/78/c7/PMC3350967.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3263627", "abstract": " Objectives. To examine the effect of immediate dentin sealing (IDS), with dentin bonding agents (DBAs) applied to freshly cut dentin, on the shear bond strength of etched pressed ceramic luted to dentin with RelyX Unicem (RXU) cement. Method. Eighty extracted noncarious third molars were ground flat to expose the occlusal dentin surfaces. The teeth were randomly allocated to five groups (A to E) of sixteen teeth each. Groups A to D were allocated a dentin bonding agent (Optibond FL, One Coat Bond, Single Bond, or Go!) that was applied to the dentin surface to mimic the clinical procedure of IDS. These specimen groups then had etched glass ceramic discs (Authentic) luted to the sealed dentin surface using RXU. Group E (control) had etched glass ceramic discs luted to the dentin surface (without a dentin bonding agent) using RXU following the manufacturer's instructions. All specimens were stored for one week in distilled water at room temperature and then shear stressed at a constant cross-head speed of 1 mm per minute until failure. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA followed by post hoc Tukey HSD method (P < 0.05) applied for multiple paired comparisons. Results. The shear bond strength results for group A to E ranged from 6.94 ± 1.53 to 10.03 ± 3.50 MPa. One-way ANOVA demonstrated a difference (P < 0.05) between the groups tested and the Tukey HSD demonstrated a significant (P < 0.05) difference between the shear bond strength (SBS) of Optibond FL (Group A) and Go! (Group D). There was no statistical difference (P > 0.05) in the SBS between the test groups (A–D) or the control (group E). Conclusion. IDS using the dentin bonding agents tested does not statistically (P > 0.05) affect the shear bond strength of etched pressed ceramic luted to dentin with RXU when compared to the control.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/21/09/PMC3263627.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4519543", "abstract": "The aims of this study were to evaluate the utility of shear wave elastography (SWE) using acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) for diagnosing chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (CAT) and to verify the effect of fibrotic thyroid tissue on shear wave velocity (SWV). The subjects were 229 patients with 253 normal thyroid lobes (controls) and 150 CAT lobes. The SWV for CAT (2.47 ± 0.57 m/s) was significantly higher than that for controls (1.59 ± 0.41 m/s) (P < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve for CAT was 0.899, and the SWV cut-off value was 1.96 m/s. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy were 87.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f5/f2/PMC4519543.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3981269", "abstract": "Very long-chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase (VLCAD) deficiency (MIM 201475) is a rare inherited disorder with three forms of clinical presentation: a severe early-onset form; an intermediate form with childhood onset; and an adult-onset form, of mild severity. During adolescence and adulthood, exercise intolerance, myalgia and recurrent episodes of rhabdomyolysis are the main clinical features. The authors present a case of a 13-year old female, with severe myalgia and dark urine after prolonged exercise. Analytical evaluation showed marked elevation plasma creatine kinase and myoglobin. The increased levels of tetradecenoyl carnitine in patient’s dried blood spot suggested a VLCAD deficiency, which was confirmed by molecular study. Family history is remarkable for first grade consanguinity of parents and a 19-year old brother with records of repeated similar episodes after moderate intensity physical efforts which was subsequently also diagnosed with VLCAD deficiency. This is one of the first cases of late-onset of disease diagnosed in Portugal.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/17/cp-2013-2-e22.PMC3981269.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3425648", "abstract": "Background Despite the importance of soft tissue balancing during total knee arthroplasty (TKA), all estimating techniques are dependent on a surgeon's manual distraction force or subjective feeling based on experience. We developed a new device for dynamic gap balancing, which can offer constant load to the gap between the femur and tibia, using pneumatic pressure during range of motion. Methods To determine the amount of distraction force for the new device, 3 experienced surgeons' manual distraction force was measured using a conventional spreader. A new device called the consistent load pneumatic tensor was developed on the basis of the biomechanical tests. Reliability testing for the new device was performed using 5 cadaveric knees by the same surgeons. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated. Results The distraction force applied to the new pneumatic tensioning device was determined to be 150 N. The interobserver reliability was very good for the newly tested spreader device with ICCs between 0.828 and 0.881. Conclusions The new pneumatic tensioning device can enable us to properly evaluate the soft tissue balance throughout the range of motion during TKA with acceptable reproducibility.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/a2/cios-4-188.PMC3425648.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3968088", "abstract": "Diabetes mellitus is the major cause of end stage renal disease (ESRD). We cannot predict which patient will be affected. ESRD patients suffer an extremely high mortality rate, due to a very high incidence of cardiovascular disease. Several randomized, prospective studies have been conducted to quantify the impact of strict glycemic control on morbidity and mortality, and have consistently demonstrated an association between strict glycemic control and a reduction in ESRD. Within the past 20 years, despite the implementation of treatments that were presumed to be renoprotective, diabetes mellitus has continued to rank as the leading cause of ESRD, which clearly indicates that we are still far from understanding the mechanisms involved in the initiation of ESRD. Progressive albuminuria has been considered as the sine qua non of diabetic nephropathy, but we know now that progression to diabetic nephropathy may well happen in the absence of initial microalbuminuria. The search for new biomarkers of early kidney damage has received increasing interest, since early identification of the pathways leading to kidney damage may allow us to adopt measures to prevent the development of ESRD. Most of these biomarkers are deeply influenced by environment, genetics, sex differences, and so on, making it extremely difficult to identify the ideal biomarker to target. At present, there are no new drugs that come close to providing the solutions we desire for our patients (ie, reducing complications). Even when used in combination with standard care, renal complications are, at best, only modestly reduced, at the considerable expense of additional pill burden and exposure to serious off-target effects. In this review, some of the hypothesized mechanisms of this heterogeneous disease will be considered, with particular attention to the tubule–interstitial compartment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8d/23/ijnrd-7-107.PMC3968088.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4699592", "abstract": "Background According to the Fletcher–Peto curve, rate of decline in forced expiratory volume in 1-second (FEV1) accelerates as age increases. However, recent studies have not demonstrated that the rate of FEV1 decline accelerates with age among COPD patients. The objective of the study is to evaluate annual rate of FEV1 decline as age increases among COPD patients. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, we enrolled COPD patients who were followed up at two tertiary care university hospitals from January 2000 to August 2013. COPD was defined as post-bronchodilator (BD) FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) of <0.7. All participants had more than two spirometries, including BD response. Age groups were categorized as follows: below versus above median age or four quartiles. Results A total of 518 participants (94.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/97/copd-11-051.PMC4699592.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2754866", "abstract": "Patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, raising questions of whether primary prevention strategies that are more aggressive than cardiac risk factor modification alone should be implemented. Recent trials demonstrating the efficacy of statins in reducing rates of cardiovascular events in healthy persons with elevated levels of C-reactive protein broaden the potential protective mechanisms of statins, but do not directly translate to primary cardiovascular disease prevention in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/40/1757-5931-0001-0000000035.PMC2754866.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4644587", "abstract": "Background: It is necessary to consider into hospital emergency services’ quantity and quality in different aspects such as time-to-provider, left-without-treatment and length-of-stay. The aimof this research was to identify the effect of these factors on patient satisfaction in training hospitals. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical and cross-sectional study, the sample size was calculated 768. The instrument included 54 questions and 8 sections. Three questions were in the field of following factors: 1) Time to provider was defined as the time from initial triage to initial provider evaluation. 2) Left-without-Treatment patients were defined as those who were initially triaged but were unable to be evaluated by a provider because they had left the ED. 3) Length-of-Stay was defined as time from initial triage to the time of final ED disposition, either discharge or admission. It was analyzed by descriptive statistics, simple logistic regression, multiple logistic regressions, simple linear regression and multiple linear regression. Results: The time-to-provider lower than 15 minutes, LWOT and LOS lower than 6 hours were 92.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/7d/PMC4644587.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2212032", "abstract": "Asthma is a complex human disease that does not have an accurate counterpart in any common model organism. Most of our understanding of the immune mechanisms underlying asthma comes from studies in man and mouse. However, there are fundamental differences between the spontaneous disease in man and the experimentally induced counterparts in mice. We advocate more extensive use of nonhuman primate asthma models to reconcile these differences between man and mouse.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d0/a9/20050901.PMC2212032.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5398357", "abstract": "Endoscopic closure techniques have been introduced for the repair of duodenal wall perforations that occur during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). We report a case of successful repair of a large duodenal wall perforation by using double endoscopic band ligation (EBL) and an endoclip. Lateral duodenal wall perforation occurred during ERCP in a 93-year-old woman with acute calculous cholangitis. We switched to a forward endoscope that had a transparent band apparatus. A 2.0-cm oval-shaped perforation was found at the lateral duodenal wall. We repaired the perforation by sequentially performing double EBL and endoclipping. The first EBL was performed at the proximal edge of the perforation orifice, and two-thirds of the perforation were repaired. The second EBL, which also included the contents covered under the first EBL, repaired the defect almost completely. Finally, to account for the possible presence of a residual perforation, an endoclip was applied at the distal end of the perforation. The detection and closure of the perforation were completed within 10 minutes. We suggest that double EBL is an effective method for closure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/70/ce-2016-112.PMC5398357.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2703868", "abstract": "The message is loud and clear. MicroRNA-96, one in a cluster of three related neurosensory microRNAs, is crucial to the development and maintenance of inner ear hair cells and hearing in mice and humans. Two recent studies show that mutations in the critical seed region of the microRNA underlie the cause of hair cell degeneration and progressive hearing loss. Other recent reports reveal the general requirement of microRNAs for sensory epithelial development and maintenance in Dicer knockout mouse ear. The challenge begins to determine whether microRNAs will resonate as therapeutic agents or target molecules to preserve or restore hearing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/af/PMC2703868.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4364020", "abstract": "Eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), a cytotoxic protein contained in eosinophils granules, can contribute to various inflammatory responses. Although Helicobacter pylori infection increases infiltration of eosinophils, the mechanisms of eosinophil degranulation by H. pylori infection are largely unknown. The goal of this study was to investigate the role of H. pylori outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) in modulating eosinophil degranulation. We found that eosinophils treated with H. pylori OMVs released significantly more ECP compared with untreated controls. In addition, eosinophils cocultured with OMV-preexposed primary gastric epithelial cells exhibited significantly increased ECP release. Similarly, eosinophils cocultured with culture supernatant (CM) from primary gastric epithelial cells exposed to OMVs (OMV-CM) released significantly higher amounts of ECP compared with eosinophils cocultured with CM from unexposed control cells. Furthermore, OMVs and OMV-CM both induced the upregulation of ICAM-1 on gastric epithelial cells and β2 integrin CD11b on eosinophils. In addition, both transduction of ICAM-1 shRNA into gastric epithelial cells and treatment with neutralizing mAbs to CD18 significantly decreased OMV-mediated or OMV-CM-mediated release of ECP. These results suggest that the eosinophil degranulation response to H. pylori OMVs occurs via a mechanism that is dependent on both β2 integrin CD11/CD18 and ICAM-1.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ab/ff/PMC4364020.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4432521", "abstract": "Summary  Introduction: Several techniques can be performed to improve nasal tip definition such as cartilage resection, tip grafts, or sutures.  Objctive: To evaluate the outcome of lateral intercrural suture at the lower lateral cartilage by endonasal rhinoplasty with a basic technique without delivery in decreasing the angle of domal divergence and improving the nasal tip definition.  Method: This prospective study was performed in 64 patients in which a suture was made on the board head of the lower lateral cartilage in the joint between the dome and lateral crus, using polydioxanone (PDS) with sharp, curved needle.  Results: In all of the cases, better definition of the nasal tip was achieved by intercrural suturing for at least 6 months postoperatively.  Conclusion: Lateral intercrural suture of the lower lateral cartilage provides improved nasal tip definition and can be performed by endonasal rhinoplasty without delivery in the Caucasian nose.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2c/30/PMC4432521.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3976855", "abstract": "We investigated the effects of insulin and honey as antioxidants to prevent the hippocampal cell death in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. We selected sixty Wister rats (5 groups of 12 animals each), including the control group (C), and four diabetic groups (control (D) and 3 groups treated with insulin (I), honey (H), and insulin plus honey (I + H)). Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin injection (IP, 60 mg/kg). Six weeks after the induction of diabetes, the group I received insulin (3-4 U/kg/day, SC), group H received honey (5 mg/kg/day, IP), and group I + H received a combination of the above at the same dose. Groups C and D received normal saline. Two weeks after treatment, rats were sacrificed and the hippocampus was extracted. Neuronal cell death in the hippocampal region was examined using trypan blue assay, “H     E” staining, and TUNEL assay. Cell viability assessment showed significantly lower number of living cells in group D than in group C. Besides, the mean number of living cells was significantly higher in group I, H, and I + H compared to group D. Therefore, it can be concluded that the treatment of the diabetic rats with insulin, honey, and a combination of insulin and honey can prevent neuronal cell death in different hippocampal areas of the studied samples.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/f5/PMC3976855.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2905943", "abstract": "The increasing global prevalence of diabetes is a critical problem for public health. In particular, diabetic retinopathy, a prevalent ocular complication of diabetes mellitus, causes severe vision loss in working population. A better understanding of the pathogenesis and the development of new pharmacologic treatments are needed. This paper describes the relevance between Rho/ROCK pathway and the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy from its early to late stages. Moreover, the therapeutic potential of ROCK inhibitor in the total management of diabetic retinopathy is discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/15/PMC2905943.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3322486", "abstract": "The traditional belief is that brain oscillations are important for human long-term memory, because they induce synchronized firing between cell assemblies which shapes synaptic plasticity. Therefore, most prior studies focused on the role of synchronization for episodic memory, as reflected in theta (∼5 Hz) and gamma (>40 Hz) power increases. These studies, however, neglect the role that is played by neural desynchronization, which is usually reflected in power decreases in the alpha and beta frequency band (8–30 Hz). In this paper we present a first idea, derived from information theory that gives a mechanistic explanation of how neural desynchronization aids human memory encoding and retrieval. Thereby we will review current studies investigating the role of alpha and beta power decreases during long-term memory tasks and show that alpha and beta power decreases play an important and active role for human memory. Applying mathematical models of information theory, we demonstrate that neural desynchronization is positively related to the richness of information represented in the brain, thereby enabling encoding and retrieval of long-term memories. This information via desynchronization hypothesis makes several predictions, which can be tested in future experiments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/65/PMC3322486.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5276771", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the activation of back and lower limb muscles in subjects who were performing a squat exercise at different angles of trunk flexion. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty healthy subjects (age 21.1± 1.8 years, height 168.7 ± 8.2 cm, weight 66.1 ± 12.3 kg) volunteered. The activation of the erector spinae muscle, rectus femoris muscle, gluteus maximus muscle and biceps femoris muscle was observed while the subjects performed squat exercises with a trunk flexion of 0°, 15°, and 30°. [Results] The erector spinae muscle, gluteus maximus muscle, and biceps femoris muscle were activated more during the squat exercise with the trunk flexion at 30° than the exercise with the trunk flexion at 0°. The rectus femoris muscle showed a tendency to decrease as the truck flexion increased. [Conclusion] Squat exercise be executed while maintaining an erect trunk posture if one wishes to strengthen the quadriceps muscle while reducing the load on the lower back.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/5c/jpts-28-3407.PMC5276771.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2872843", "abstract": "Herpes zoster is the consequence of reactivation of latent varicella zoster virus from dorsal root ganglia. Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) may be diagnosed when pain persists in a dermatomal pattern long after the vesicular erruption has healed. PHN is a kind of neuropathic pain. The pathophysiology of PHN is uncertain, but neuropathic pain due to denervation supersensitivity may be important to understand the pathophysiology of PHN. Numerous treatment have been introduced for the management of PHN, but no methods that results in complete remission. Gunn's intramuscular stimulation (IMS) is one of the best treatment of chronic pain, especially neuropathic pain. We tried Gunn's IMS for treatment of PHN patients affecting thoracic dermatomes. As a result, the visual analogue scale (VAS) was decreased from 7-8 to 2-3 and the result were satisfactory. The purpose of this case report is to introduce the Gunn's IMS and review our experience for the treatment of PHN.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/41/b3/kjae-58-311.PMC2872843.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2828551", "abstract": "Ischemic stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality for which the only approved treatment in the acute setting is intravenous thrombolysis. The efficacy and safety of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) have been firmly established within 3 h of symptom onset; however, few patients are eligible for treatment in this time window. Expanding the time for treatment has been challenging, but new evidence has demonstrated a modest statistical improvement in selected patients when rt-PA is administered within 4.5 h. This important finding hopefully will enable more patients to receive treatment and simultaneously provides an opportunity to reaffirm that the benefits of rt-PA diminish with time.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/78/11910_2009_Article_76.PMC2828551.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4854741", "abstract": "Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the permeability of dentin after using diamond bur and Er:YAG laser. Materials and Methods: Seventy-two recently extracted, intact, and restoration-free human permanent molars were used in this study. The samples were randomly divided into three groups of 24 each and class I cavities were prepared as follows. Group 1: High speed diamond bur with air and water spray. Group 2: Er:YAG laser. Group 3: Er:YAG laser followed by additional sub-ablative laser treatment. Each group consisted of two subgroups with different cavity depths of 2mm and 4mm. The entire cavity floor was in dentin. Two samples from each subgroup were observed under scanning electron microscope (SEM). The external surfaces of other samples were covered with nail varnish (except the prepared cavity) and immersed in 0.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c3/24/PMC4854741.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4475579", "abstract": "We examined the prevalence and type of rectal lubricants use and factors associated with exclusive use of latex-condom compatible lubricants (water-based lubricants) among men who have sex with men (MSM) using data from a large-scale cross-sectional survey conducted in 2009/10 in three Indian states. Using time-location cluster sampling, 3880 MSM were recruited from cruising sites. We used multiple logistic regression to assess the association between type of lubricants used and sociodemographic and programmatic indicators. Among those who reported using lubricants (64", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d3/50/PMC4475579.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5165160", "abstract": "Despite recent advances in the understanding and management of diabetes mellitus, the prevalence of the disease is increasing unabatedly with resulting disabling and life-reducing consequences to the global human population. The limitations and side effects associated with current antidiabetic therapies have necessitated the search for novel therapeutic agents. Due to the multipathogenicity of diabetes mellitus, plant-derived compounds with proven multiple pharmacological actions have been postulated to “hold the key” in the search for an affordable, efficacious, and safer therapeutic agent in the treatment of the disease and associated complications. Resveratrol, a phytoalexin present in few plant species, has demonstrated beneficial antidiabetic effects in animals and humans through diverse mechanisms and multiple molecular targets. However, despite the enthusiasm and widespread successes achieved with the use of resveratrol in animal models of diabetes mellitus, there are extremely limited clinical data to confirm the antidiabetic qualities of resveratrol. This review presents an update on the mechanisms of action and protection of resveratrol in diabetes mellitus, highlights challenges in its clinical utility, and suggests the way forward in translating the promising preclinical data to a possible antidiabetic drug in the near future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/19/7e/PMC5165160.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3019752", "abstract": "Objectives: The aims of this study were to evaluate the influence of gender and dental status on the mental index, mandibular cortical index and panoramic mandibular index from dental panoramic radiographs in elderly who had osteoporosis or did not have osteoporosis. Methods: Panoramic radiographs of 487 elderly dental patients (age range 60–88 years) were evaluated. It were recorded osteoporotic status according to the patients’ medical anamnesis and values of the mandibular cortical index (MCI), panoramic mandibular index (PMI), mandibular cortical width (MCW) Results: Dental status was statistically significantly associated with the mandibular cortical width, panoramic mandibular index and the categories of MCI (P<.05). There were statistically different mandibular cortical width and panoramic mandibular index values in patients with osteoporosis and without osteoporosis (P<.05) Conclusions: Our study showed that there were statistically significant differences according to gender, dental status, and values of the MCW, MCI and PMI between patients with and those without osteoporosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/27/18/PMC3019752.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3463927", "abstract": "Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a common subtype of dementia in the elderly. DLB is neuropathologically characterized by the presence of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites, both of which are composed of α-synuclein. Although α-synuclein was initially considered to be an exclusively intracellular protein, it has been found to be secreted into biological fluids. α-Synuclein in biological fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood has been discussed as a potential biomarker of DLB and α-synuclein-related disorders, because α-synuclein is characteristically accumulated in the brain of patients with these disorders. The α-synuclein level in CSF has been examined by several investigators, and the majority of studies have shown a reduction in CSF α-synuclein level in DLB and α-synuclein-related disorders. Discrepant findings of studies of plasma α-synuclein level in patients with DLB have been reported. Because the level of α-synuclein stored in red blood cells is considerably high, blood contamination and haemolysis during sample collection and processing should be considered as a confounding factor for quantification of α-synuclein. Here, the recent progress in the studies of α-synuclein as a biomarker of DLB and their potential clinical applications are reviewed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/49/c3/PMC3463927.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5253515", "abstract": "Abstract The use of acellular dermal matrices (ADM) for dural repair is very scantily described in the literature. We report two cases of dural repair using porcine ADM and a literature review. ADM and especially StratticeTM pliable may be a useful alternative to other dural substitutes. Further evaluation would be favorable.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2a/4d/icrp-4-005.PMC5253515.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4898749", "abstract": "A 29-year-old woman with schizophrenia introduced for application of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for refractory visual hallucinations. Following inhibitory rTMS on visual cortex she reported significant reduction in severity and simplification of complexity of hallucinations, which lasted for three months. rTMS can be considered as a possibly potent treatment for visual hallucinations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/89/ijpbs-10-01-3561.PMC4898749.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4032198", "abstract": "P-glycoprotein (P-gp) serves as a therapeutic target for the development of multidrug resistance reversal agents. In this study, we synthesized 21 novel compounds by peptide coupling at corresponding carboxyl and amino termini of (S)-valine-based bis-thiazole and monothiazole derivatives with diverse chemical scaffolds. Using calcein-AM efflux assay, we identified compound 28 (IC50 = 1.0 μM) carrying 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoyl and 2-aminobenzophenone groups, respectively, at the amino and carboxyl termini of the monothiazole zwitter-ion. Compound 28 inhibited the photolabeling of P-gp with [125I]-iodoarylazidoprazosin with IC50 = 0.75 μM and stimulated the basal ATP hydrolysis of P-gp in a concentration-dependent manner (EC50 ATPase = 0.027 μM). Compound 28 at 3 μM reduced resistance in cytotoxicity assay to paclitaxel in P-gp-expressing SW620/Ad300 and HEK/ABCB1 cell lines. Biochemical and docking studies showed site-1 to be the preferable binding site for 28 within the drug-binding pocket of human P-gp.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/77/5d/PMC4032198.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4948174", "abstract": "Background: In 1990, the Iranian Ministry of Health implemented a health plan to increase mothers’ knowledge of infant feeding using health workers and health volunteers. This study evaluates the effects of nutrition education on mothers’ knowledge and whether increase in mothers’ knowledge was associated with increase in growth of their children in Ardabil, Iran. Methods: A quasi-experimental study of the impact of written nutritional education and in-person nutritional education given to the participants (mothers) from urban health centers by health workers and health volunteers. Sixteen urban health centers located in Ardabil, Iran, were selected randomly for nutritional education. A group of 303 mothers with infants younger than 6 months of age from 16 health centers participated in this study. Height-for-age Z scores and weight-for age Z scores were calculated based on the National Center for Health Statistics reference values. Results: There were signifi cant differences between maternal nutritional knowledge before and after the intervention in all groups. However, the in-person method of instruction given by health workers was more effective in increasing mothers’ knowledge than those in non-health worker volunteers intervention group. There were also significant differences between the growth rates of infants’ heights and weights before and after the intervention. Conclusions and Global Health Implications: In line with the aims of the government’s plan, the education given by health volunteers from non-governmental organizations was effective. However, it was less effective than the one given by professional health workers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c8/ee/IJMA-3-74.PMC4948174.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3808714", "abstract": "Severe sepsis and septic shock are a primary cause of death in patients in intensive care unit (ICU). Investigations upon genetic susceptibility profile to systemic complications during severe infections are a field of increasing scientific interest. Particularly when adaptive immune system is compromised or immature, innate immunity plays a key role in the immediate defense against invasive pathogens. Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) is a serum protein that recognizes a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms and activates complement cascade via the antibody-independent pathway. More than 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/98/5a/PMC3808714.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4471311", "abstract": "CLCF-1 is a cytokine known for B-cell stimulation and for neurotrophic properties. We have identified CLCF-1 as a potential injurious factor in the human renal disease focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). We investigated its effects on renal cells and renal function in in vitro and in vivo studies. Methods include measurement of the effect of CLCF-1 on phosphorylation of target molecules of the JAK/STAT pathway, on cytoskeleton and cell morphology in cultured podocytes, on albumin permeability of isolated rat glomeruli, and on tissue phosphorylation and urine albumin after acute or chronic CLCF-1 injection. In addition, cell sorting was performed to determine the presence of cells expressing CLCF-1 in spleen and bone marrow of normal mice and the effect of CLCF-1 infusion on splenic B-cell populations. CLCF-1 increased phosphorylation of STAT3 in multiple cell types, activated podocytes leading to formation of lamellipodia and decrease in basal stress fibers, increased glomerular albumin permeability, and increased STAT3 phosphorylation of peripheral blood cells and renal cortex. CLCF-1 increased urine albumin/creatinine ratio in mice and increased B-cell expression of IgG in mouse spleen. We conclude that CLCF-1 has potentially important systemic effects, alters podocyte function, and may contribute to renal dysfunction and albuminuria.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/a4/PMC4471311.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5111459", "abstract": "Background The hepatitis C virus (HCV) has six major genotypes. The purpose of this study was to phylogenetically investigate the differences between the genotypes of HCV, and to determine the types of amino acid codon usage in the structure of the virus in order to discover new methods for treatment regimes. Methods The codon usage of the six genotypes of the HCV nucleotide sequence was investigated through the online application available on the website Gene Infinity. Also, phylogenetic analysis and the evolutionary relationship of HCV genotypes were analyzed with MEGA 7 software. Results The six genotypes of HCV were divided into two groups based on their codon usage properties. In the first group, genotypes 1 and 5 (74.02", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6c/8f/hepatmon-16-10-39196.PMC5111459.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3572358", "abstract": "Pyogenic granuloma is a benign inflammatory vascular lesion, mainly found in the skin and oral mucosa. A few cases of pyogenic granuloma in the gastrointestinal tract have been reported, and the esophagus was the main site in these cases. These patients were diagnosed with pyogenic granuloma after they underwent upper endoscopy and biopsy. Endoscopic resection is a favorable treatment option for esophageal pyogenic granuloma. Recently, we observed characteristic endosonographic findings in two cases with esophageal pyogenic granuloma, which were then treated successfully by endoscopic resection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/42/ce-46-81.PMC3572358.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897356", "abstract": " Background. Health technology provides a wealth of strategies to address chronic health issues, such as childhood obesity. Few studies have assessed parental preferences regarding use of health technology to support weight management for adolescents. Objective. This study determined caregiver beliefs, attitudes, and practices towards using traditional methods and technology-based health applications to address weight management among overweight adolescents. Methods. Self-administered surveys were distributed to caregivers of children ages 11–18 years in Stony Brook Children's Hospital outpatient offices with a BMI ≥ 85th percentile for age, gender. The data were entered into StudyTrax research platform and analyzed using SAS. Results.  N = 114. Mean BMI z-score = 1.95 ± 0.50. Two-thirds (65.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/16/db/PMC4897356.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4919948", "abstract": "Editor’s Note: Who hasn’t dipped into that pint of Häagen-Dazs with the best of intentions and ended up finishing the entire container? Knowing where the line is when it comes to out-of-control impulse consumption is at the heart of binge-eating disorder (BED), a newly recognized mental condition that effects affects millions of people and that we are just beginning to better understand—from both a neurobiological and clinical standpoint.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7f/b6/PMC4919948.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5011600", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a complex exercise program on the body composition and cardiorespiratory system of female college students. [Subjects and Methods] This study included 20 female college students who had not participated in any particular sports in the last 3 months. The complex exercise program consisted of two parts, aerobic exercise and weight training. First, aerobic exercise was implemented (30 min 5 times a week for 12 weeks) according to the participants’ exercise tolerance. Second, weight training was implemented (40 min 5 times a week for 12 weeks) with 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/df/jpts-28-2376.PMC5011600.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3352049", "abstract": "Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is a rare angioproliferative tumor associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) infection. Four clinical variants of KS have been described: classic, endemic, iatrogenic and HIV-associated. We describe a 53-year-old men who had sex with men with a rapidly growing nodule on his left foot. Histologically KS was confirmed. Our patient did not match the clinical subgroups as HIV infection or other immune disorders could be ruled out. KS in HIV-negative MSM has only been reported sporadically. It was shown that KS in these patients clinically resembles classic KS but occurs at a younger age, is limited to the skin, and is associated with a good prognosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/69/51/PMC3352049.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4772836", "abstract": "The burden of enteric fever caused by Salmonella enterica serovars Typhi and Paratyphi is substantial and has high impact in toddlers and young children. This burden is relatively well documented in Asia, and this supplement provides new data on the substantial burden in several sub-Saharan African countries. Challenges in standardized surveillance and imperfect diagnostic tools have resulted in patchy local disease data, which are not well acknowledged or integrated into local country evidence and health awareness for decision making. There is a need to strengthen diagnostics for the generation of burden data in country. Furthermore, the guidelines and training for treatment of enteric fever cases in Africa are sorely needed to help mitigate the inappropriate use of antimicrobial treatment. Classic water safety and access to sanitation development remain powerful tools for the control of typhoid fever, yet the huge economic costs and long timelines are unlikely to provide a short- to middle-term solution. Emerging threats, including multidrug resistance and increasing urbanization in regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, warrant focused attention to shorter-term interventions including immunization, and must include vaccine strategies with the new typhoid conjugate vaccines.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/76/civ976.PMC4772836.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5338878", "abstract": "This article describes the primary health care offered to 8118 service users with diabetes in Brazil based on data from the PMAQ (Program to Improve Primary Care Access and Quality) first survey. Structure, access, service organization and management, and clinical care quality were analyzed. Prevalence of self-reported receipt of appropriate treatment was 14.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/71/jamcm-40-s12.PMC5338878.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4151624", "abstract": "The nucleotide uridine trisphosphate (UTP) released to the extracellular milieu acts as a signaling molecule via activation of specific pyrimidine receptors (P2Y). P2Y receptors are G protein-coupled receptors expressed in many cell types. These receptors mediate several cell responses and they are involved in intracellular calcium mobilization. We investigated the role of the prostanoid PGE2 in P2Y signaling in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), since these cells are involved in different ontogenic and physiopathological processes, among them is tissue repair following proinflammatory activation. Interestingly, Ca2+-mobilization induced by UTP-dependent P2Y activation was reduced by PGE2 when this prostanoid was produced by MEFs transfected with COX-2 or when PGE2 was added exogenously to the culture medium. This Ca2+-mobilization was important for the activation of different metabolic pathways in fibroblasts. Moreover, inhibition of COX-2 with selective coxibs prevented UTP-dependent P2Y activation in these cells. The inhibition of P2Y responses by PGE2 involves the activation of PKCs and PKD, a response that can be suppressed after pharmacological inhibition of these protein kinases. In addition to this, PGE2 reduces the fibroblast migration induced by P2Y-agonists such as UTP. Taken together, these data demonstrate that PGE2 is involved in the regulation of P2Y signaling in these cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/41/42/PMC4151624.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3771423", "abstract": "The dysregulated Wnt pathway is a major cause for the activation of cell proliferation and reduced differentiation in tumor cells. Therefore the Wnt signaling pathway is the on-top target in searching for new anticancer drugs or therapeutic strategies. Although the key players of the pathway are known, no specific anti-Wnt drug entered a clinical trial by now. Several screening approaches for potential compounds have been performed with a reporter gene assay using multiple T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor (TCF/LEF) binding motifs as promoters which control luciferase or β-galactosidase as reporter genes. In our work, we designed a reporter gene construct which anchors the enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) to the plasma membrane. HEK 293T cells, which were stably transfected with this construct, express eGFP on the outer membrane after activation with either LiCl or WNT3A protein. Thus, cells with activated Wnt pathway could be identified and fished out of a heterogeneous cell pool by the use of magnetic-labeled anti-GFP antibodies. In summary, we present a new tool to easily detect, quantify, and sort cells with activated Wnt signaling pathway in a simple, fast, and cost-effective way.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/22/68/PMC3771423.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4405294", "abstract": "Peripheral neuropathy is a chronic complication of diabetes mellitus. To investigated the efficacy and safety of the extended treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy with thymosin β4 (Tβ4), male diabetic mice (db/db) at the age of 24 weeks were treated with Tβ4 or saline for 16 consecutive weeks. Treatment of diabetic mice with Tβ4 significantly improved motor (MCV) and sensory (SCV) conduction velocity in the sciatic nerve and the thermal and mechanical latency. However, Tβ4 treatment did not significantly alter blood glucose levels. Treatment with Tβ4 significantly increased intraepidermal nerve fiber density. Furthermore, Tβ4 counteracted the diabetes-induced axon diameter and myelin thickness reductions and the g-ratio increase in sciatic nerve. In vitro, compared with dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons derived from nondiabetic mice, DRG neurons derived from diabetic mice exhibited significantly decreased neurite outgrowth, whereas Tβ4 promoted neurite growth in these diabetic DRG neurons. Blockage of the Ang1/Tie2 signaling pathway with a neutralized antibody against Tie2 abolished Tβ4-increased neurite outgrowth. Our data demonstrate that extended Tβ4 treatment ameliorates diabetic-induced axonal degeneration and demyelination, which likely contribute to therapeutic effect of Tβ4 on diabetic neuropathy. The Ang1/Tie2 pathway may mediate Tβ4-induced axonal remodeling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/31/6a/PMC4405294.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3888841", "abstract": "Sugammadex is belonging to a new class of drugs: the selective relaxant binding agents. Sugammadex can reverse residual paralysis by encapsulating free circulating non depolarizing muscle relaxants. The mains advantages of sugammadex when compared with conventional anticholinesterase agents are a much faster recovery time and the unique ability, for the first time, to reverse rapidly and efficiently deep levels of neuromuscular blockade. However it only works for reversal of rocuronium or vecuronium-induced neuromuscular blockade. When administered 3 min after rocuronium the use of a large dose (16 mg/kg) can even reverse rocuronium significantly faster than the spontaneous recovery after succinylcholine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/02/kjae-65-495.PMC3888841.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1852888", "abstract": " Objective and background. Pulmonary aneurysms and thrombosis constitute a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Behçet's disease (BD). Various factors have been studied to explore the pathogenesis of vascular involvement in BD. As endothelin (ET) is known for its potent vasoconstrictor and proinflammatory properties, we supposed that it is involved during the inflammatory process of BD pulmonary vasculitis. Methods. To investigate the role of ET in BD, ET-1 concentrations were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of 18 nonsmoking BD patients with pulmonary manifestations and 12 control subjects. Immunoreactivity of ET-1 was also evaluated in alveolar macrophages (AMs) cytoplasm. Results. ET-1 levels in BD-BALF were significantly higher than those of controls. ET-1 levels were correlated with the number of alveolar macrophages, but not with BAL-CD4/CD8 ratio. ET-1-immunoreactivity was found mainly in AM of BD-BAL. Conclusions. Increased ET-1 production from AM is associated with pulmonary BD manifestations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/72/PMC1852888.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4297013", "abstract": " Introduction Gout is an illness characterized by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in the joints or in soft tissues. The clinical manifestation results from inflammation of limb joints and pain with a rare presentation in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).  Case Report This study describes a 66-year-old white man with a chief complaint of “occasional pain in the left temporal muscle region.” The case disclosed a gout manifestation in the TMJ after physical, radiographic, and ultrasonographic exams, and the patient was referred to proper treatment.  Conclusion Gout manifestation in the TMJ is an unusual presentation, and few reports in the English literature address to the subject. Gout in the TMJ should be included as a differential diagnosis for joint disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3f/15/PMC4297013.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4201018", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Co-occurrence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma resulting in severe airway obstruction is very rare. PRESENTATION OF CASE A 58-year-old woman visited our department because of enlargement of a neck mass. Computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography showed 2 discrete hypoechoic nodules. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy revealed thyroid lymphoma in the left lobe and PTC in the right lobe. After 1 week, she returned to the emergency room at our hospital with shortness of breath and difficultly in swallowing. CT revealed enlargement of the left lobe, which was severely compressing the trachea. We performed emergency total thyroidectomy with lymphadenectomy. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged without any symptoms. DISCUSSION The most common treatment for PTC is surgery; however, the treatment for thyroid lymphoma remains controversial. We propose that surgery be performed in the cases of symptoms such as shortness of breath and difficulty in swallowing. CONCLUSION We performed emergency total thyroidectomy to relieve obstruction of the trachea and to remove the two malignant tumors. We suggest total thyroidectomy for a case of co-occurrence of two malignant tumors, causing severe airway obstruction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7b/cd/main.PMC4201018.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5260656", "abstract": "Abstract The aim of this study was to compare the kinematic characteristics of tennis matches between red clay and hard courts in young tennis players. Eight young tennis players performed two tennis matches on different court surfaces. The match activities were monitored using GPS units. The distance covered in different velocity ranges and the number of accelerations were analyzed. The paired t test and inference based on magnitudes were used to compare the match physical performance between groups. The total distance (24", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ea/d3/PMC5260656.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3614119", "abstract": "The elderly population has substantially increased worldwide. Aging is a complex process, and the effects of aging are myriad and insidious, leading to progressive deterioration of various organs, including the skeleton. Age-related bone loss and resultant osteoporosis in the elderly population increase the risk for fractures and morbidity. Osteoporosis is one of the most common conditions associated with aging, and age is an independent risk factor for osteoporotic fractures. With the development of noninvasive imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT), micro-CT, and high resolution peripheral quantitative CT (HR-pQCT), imaging of the bone architecture provides important information about age-related changes in bone microstructure and estimates of bone strength. In the past two decades, studies of human specimens using imaging techniques have revealed decreased bone strength in older adults compared with younger adults. The present paper addresses recently studied age-related changes in trabecular and cortical bone microstructure based primarily on HR-pQCT and micro-CT. We specifically focus on the three-dimensional microstructure of the vertebrae, femoral neck, and distal radius, which are common osteoporotic fracture sites.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7d/b2/PMC3614119.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3952380", "abstract": "CHARGE syndrome is a common cause of congenital anomalies. Its rate of incidence is about 1:10,000. It is phenotypically heterogeneous, usually a sporadic or autosomal dominant disorder resulting from a mutation in the CHD7 (chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein) gene. Since the time it was first described by Hall, the knowledge of the clinical characteristics of CHARGE syndrome has increased over the years. Recently, basiocciput hypoplasia and basilar invagination in patients with CHARGE syndrome have been reported. We report here a case of CHARGE syndrome where there is involvement of symmetrical chorioretinal colobomata with craniovertebral junction anomalies. The patient had symmetrical chorioretinal colobomata, external and inner ear anomalies, sensorineural deafness, characteristic facial appearance, retarded growth and development, history of patent ductus arteriosus, and craniovertebral junction anomalies. Craniovertebral junction anomalies may be an under-diagnosed phenotypic expression of CHARGE syndrome. The diagnostic criteria of CHARGE syndrome may require further revision to include the addition of craniovertebral junction anomalies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/43/db/JCIS-4-5.PMC3952380.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3976015", "abstract": " [Purpose] The present study aimed to determine the correlation between the activities of daily living and the quality of life (QOL) of patients with chronic stroke. [Subjects and Methods] The study subjects were 68 patients with stroke. Three questionnaires were distributed by visiting the subjects. [Results] All the items and total scores of the functional independence measure (FIM) showed a high correlation with the QOL total score. The relationship between the activities of daily living and the total QOL score showed a significant positive correlation. Among the FIM items, mobility and social cognition showed the most significant effects. The modified r2 value was 0.67, mobility and social cognition explained approximately 67", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/91/jpts-26-417.PMC3976015.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3117630", "abstract": "Gemcitabine is a chemotherapeutic agent used for the treatment of a number of malignancies. Although its major dose-limiting side effect is myelosuppression, many pulmonary toxicities have been described with its use. Severe pulmonary toxicity is rare, but symptoms tend to be rapid in onset and potentially deadly. The average time from initiation of chemotherapy to onset of symptoms is less than two months. The most effective therapy is steroid administration, the efficacy of which has been variable. In this report, we describe a unique case of gemcitabine pulmonary toxicity in a patient who did not experience symptoms of pulmonary dysfunction until after 1 year of treatment. Her symptoms did not improve rapidly with steroids, nor did she rapidly decompensate as has been frequently described. To our knowledge, this is one of the first reported descriptions of late-onset gemcitabine lung toxicity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/06/13/PMC3117630.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC134474", "abstract": "Although diabetes mellitus is predominantly a metabolic disorder, recent data suggest that it is as much a vascular disorder. Cardiovascular complications are the leading cause of death and disability in patients with diabetes mellitus. A number of recent reports have emphasized that many patients already have atherosclerosis in progression by the time they are diagnosed with clinical evidence of diabetes mellitus. The increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications in diabetic patients is related to the frequently associated dyslipidemia, hypertension, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and endothelial dysfunction. The evolving knowledge regarding the variety of metabolic, hormonal, and hemodynamic abnormalities in patients with diabetes mellitus has led to efforts designed for early identification of individuals at risk of subsequent disease. It has been suggested that insulin resistance, the key abnormality in type II diabetes, often precedes clinical features of diabetes by 5–6 years. Careful attention to the criteria described for the cardiovascular dysmetabolic syndrome should help identify those at risk at an early stage. The application of nonpharmacologic as well as newer emerging pharmacologic therapies can have beneficial effects in individuals with cardiovascular dysmetabolic syndrome and/or diabetes mellitus by improving insulin sensitivity and related abnormalities. Early identification and implementation of appropriate therapeutic strategies would be necessary to contain the emerging new epidemic of cardiovascular disease related to diabetes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/63/17/PMC134474.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3268566", "abstract": "Novel cancer biomarker discovery is urgently needed for cancer theragnosis and prognosis, and among the many possible types of samples, blood is regarded to be ideal for this discovery as it can be collected easily in a minimally invasive manner. Results of the past few years have ascertained the quantification of microRNA (miRNA) as a promising approach for the detection and prognostication of cancer. Indeed, an increasing number of studies have shown that circulating cancer-associated miRNAs are readily measured in plasma or serum and they can robustly discriminate cancer patients from healthy controls, as well as distinguishing between good-prognosis and poor-prognosis patients. Furthermore, recent findings also suggest the potential of circulating miRNAs in the screening, monitoring, and treatment of cancer. This article summarizes the most significant and latest discoveries of original researches on circulating miRNAs involvement in cancer, focusing on the potential of circulating miRNAs as minimally invasive biomarkers for cancer theragnosis and prognosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/28/f7/PMC3268566.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4524308", "abstract": "Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease with unknown factor. The prevalence and incidence rate of this disease had an upward trend in many regions in the world such as Middle east and consequently in Iran over the recent years. As the risk factors of this increased trend and high-prevalence is unknown in Iran, the current study has been designed to evaluate the correlation between MS dispersal with urbanization, life style and industry, as an ecological research. Methods: This retrospective study was designed as an ecological approach in 2011. Data were collected from three databases by high precision (CI95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/72/PMC4524308.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5087634", "abstract": "Although much more rare than its diabetic counterpart, ketoacidosis secondary to alcohol withdrawal in the context of fasting has its own complex pathophysiology and can easily mimic the acute insulin deficiency presentation. We present here a rare case of a non-diabetic alcoholic patient who presented in ketoacidosis after a period of reduced intake.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/92/jocmr-08-919.PMC5087634.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4513167", "abstract": "Objective Epidural injection of hyaluronic acid may prevent adhesion formation after spine surgery, but the compounds used to stabilize hyaluronidase could interfere with its anti-adhesion effects. The present study was conducted as a clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an experimental medical gel in preventing adhesion formation. Methods This study was designed as a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, and comparative controlled clinical trial with an observation period of 6 weeks. Subjects were randomly assigned into two groups: group A with sodium hyaluronate + 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE) and group B with sodium hyaluronate + sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). Visual analogue scale (VAS) of back and leg pain and the Oswestry disability index (ODI) and scar score ratings were assessed after surgery. Results Mean scar grade was 2.37±1.13 in group A and 2.75±0.97 in group B, a statistically significant difference (p=0.012). VAS of back and leg pain and ODI scores decreased significantly from baseline to 3 and 6 weeks postoperatively in both groups (p<0.001). However, VAS and ODI scores were not statistically different between groups A and B at baseline or at 3 and 6 weeks after operation (p>0.3). The number of adverse reactions related to the anti-adhesion gels was not statistically different (p=0.569), but subsequent analysis of nervous adverse reactions showed group B was superior with a statistically difference (p=0.027). Conclusion Sodium hyaluronate with BDDE demonstrated similar anti-adhesion properties to sodium hyaluronate with CMC. But, care should be used to nervous adverse reactions by using sodium hyaluronate with BDDE.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/18/kjs-12-41.PMC4513167.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3214813", "abstract": "Transvenous coil embolization has been successfully applied for the treatment of cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula (CSDAVF). Unfortunately, the technique cannot be applied in cases of poor or absent inferior petrosal sinus or facial venous access route to the fistula. Recently, we experienced a successful embolization using direct superior ophthalmic vein approach in cases of CSDAVF which were no opacification of inferior petrosal sinus or facial vein.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/39/ni-6-100.PMC3214813.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4833887", "abstract": "Background: The genus Penicillium contains a large number of ubiquitous environmental taxa, of which some species are clinically important. Identification of Penicillium down to the species level is currently based on polyphasic criteria, including phenotypic features and genetic markers. Biodiversity of the genus Penicillium from Mazandaran and Tehran provinces has not been described. Objectives: The current paper focused on the environmental biodiversity of Penicillium isolates within some areas of Mazandaran and Tehran provinces, based on morphological traits and the molecular data from partial sequence of the β-tubulin (BT2) gene. Materials and Methods: A total of 400 strains were isolated from the environment and investigated using morphological tests and sequencing of BT2, in order to characterize the spectrum of the Penicillium species. Results: Sequence analysis of BT2 and morphological criteria of 20 strains representative of 10 species showed that Penicillium chrysogenum was the most prevalent species (n = 6), followed by P. polonicum (n = 3), P. glabrum (n = 2), P. palitans (n = 2), P. melanoconidium (n = 2), and other species, including P. expansum, P. canescense, P. griseofulvum, P. italicum, and P. raistrickii with one case each. Conclusions: It was shown that partial β-tubulin sequence, as a reliable genetic target, supported specific morphological criteria for identification of the Penicillium species. Like other assessments throughout the world, P. chrysogenum remains the most frequent environmental Penicillium species in Mazandaran and Tehran Provinces.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/7c/jjm-09-01-28280.PMC4833887.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4350619", "abstract": " Objective. To estimate the diagnostic accuracy of the anti-CCP test in JIA and to evaluate factors associated with higher accuracy. Methods. Two investigators performed an extensive search of the literature published between January 2000 and January 2014. The included articles were assessed by the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool. The meta-analysis was performed using a summary ROC (SROC) curve and a bivariate random-effect model to estimate sensitivity and specificity across studies. Results. The bivariate meta-analysis yielded a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/65/69/PMC4350619.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4133033", "abstract": "Skin-sparing mastectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and synchronous breast reconstruction are widely used in breast cancer surgery nowadays. Difficulties in feeling confident in this technique and postoperative surgical complications are the major obstacles against the widespread usage of this technique. Compared with the other surgical techniques, the complications are hard to treat. Cutaneous necrosis because of methylene blue used for sentinel lymph node mapping in patients who underwent skin-sparing mastectomy and SLNB is already reported in the literature. We present here two cases with cutaneous necrosis because of isosulphane blue injection after skin-sparing mastectomy and SLNB as a rare complication of dye injection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/91/e6/PMC4133033.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4453879", "abstract": "Abstract Background Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase is one of the most common genetic deficiencies, which approximately 400 million people in the world suffer from. According to authors’ initial search, numerous studies have been carried out in Iran regarding molecular variants of this enzyme. Thus, this meta-analysis presented a reliable estimation about prevalence of different types of molecular mutations of G6PD Enzyme in Iran. Methods Keywords “glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase or G6PD, Mediterranean or Chatham or Cosenza and mutation, Iran or Iranian and their Persian equivalents” were searched in different databases. Moreover, reference list of the published studies were examined to increase sensitivity and to select more studies. After studying titles and abstracts of retrieved articles, excluding the repeated and unrelated ones, and evaluating quality of articles, documents were selected. Data was analyzed using STATA. Results After performing systematic review, 22 papers were entered this meta-analysis and 1698 subjects were examined concerning G6PD molecular mutation. In this meta-analysis, prevalence of Mediterranean mutation, Chatham mutation and Cosenza mutation in Iran was estimated 78.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/22/PMC4453879.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC59591", "abstract": "The publication of the results of the Swedish Trial in Old Patients with Hypertension-2 (STOP-2) and the termination of the doxazocin arm of the Antihypertensive and Lipid Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack (ALLHAT) study again raise the question of whether all antihypertensives deliver equal cardiovascular outcome benefits. Data from research on congestive heart failure and from the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation (HOPE) trial illuminate the roles and possible mechanisms of humoral mediators of vascular damage, suggesting, first, that some antihypertensives (thiazides, beta-blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) can deliver more improvement in outcomes than other agents and, second, that decisions on whom to treat are best made based on risk appraisal, not merely pressures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ed/7c/PMC59591.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4526772", "abstract": "Background It is well known that nutrient availability can alter the gut microbiota composition, while the effect on diversity and temporal stability remains largely unknown. Methods Here we address the equine caecal microbiota temporal stability, diversity, and functionality in response to diets with different levels of nutrient availability. Hay (low and slower nutrient availability) versus a mixture of hay and whole oats (high and more rapid nutrient availability) were used as experimental diets. Results We found major effects on the microbiota despite that the caecal pH was far from sub-clinical acidosis. We found that the low nutrient availability diet was associated with a higher level of both diversity and temporal stability of the caecal microbiota than the high nutrient availability diet. These observations concur with general ecological theories, suggesting a stabilising effect of biological diversity and that high nutrient availability has a destabilising effect through reduced diversity. Conclusion Nutrient availability does not only change the composition but also the ecology of the caecal microbiota.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/2e/MEHD-26-27216.PMC4526772.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4446505", "abstract": "DPP4 inhibitors (DPP4i) are a class of newly developed antidiabetic drugs which preserve incretin hormones and promote postprandial insulin secretion. Although the cardiovascular effect of DPP4 inhibition has been substantially studied, the exact role of DPP4 in cardiovascular disease especially in humans remains elusive. Previous small studies and meta-analyses have suggested a benefit in both surrogate outcomes and cardiovascular events for these agents. However, there was growing evidence in recent years questioning the cardioprotective effect of DPP4i. Further, a signal of heart failure hospitalization in a recent large scale clinical trial SAVOR-TIMI 53 has called into question the safety of these agents and their utility in the treatment of cardiovascular disease. In this review, we will revisit the physiologic function of DPP4 and discuss its role in cardiometabolic disease based on recent experimental and clinical studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/99/d6/PMC4446505.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4462983", "abstract": "Introduction Constantly evolving technology and techniques within radiation therapy require practitioners to maintain a continuous approach to professional development and training. Systems of performance appraisal and adoption of regular feedback mechanisms are vital to support this development yet frequently lack structure and rely on informal peer support. Methods A Radiation Therapy Performance Appraisal Framework (RT-PAF) for radiation therapists in planning and simulation was developed to define expectations of practice and promote a supportive and objective culture of performance and skills appraisal. Evaluation of the framework was conducted via an anonymous online survey tool. Nine peer reviewers and fourteen recipients provided feedback on its effectiveness and the challenges and limitations of the approach. Results Findings from the evaluation were positive and suggested that both groups gained benefit from and expressed a strong interest in embedding the approach more routinely. Respondents identified common challenges related to the limited ability to implement suggested development strategies; this was strongly associated with time and rostering issues. Conclusions This framework successfully defined expectations for practice and provided a fair and objective feedback process that focussed on skills development. It empowered staff to maintain their skills and reach their professional potential. Management support, particularly in regard to provision of protected time was highlighted as critical to the framework's ongoing success. The demonstrated benefits arising in terms of staff satisfaction and development highlight the importance of this commitment to the modern radiation therapy workforce.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/21/7a/jmrs0062-0114.PMC4462983.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3772692", "abstract": "Background This case report documents the affliction of the lymph vessels as a phenotypic feature of neurofibromatosis-1 (NF-1). Methodology Routine transthoracic echocardiography, computed tomography scan of the thorax, magnetic resonance angiography of the renal arteries, and conventional digital subtraction angiography were applied. Comprehensive NF-1 mutation analysis was carried out by fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis, long-range reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, and multiple-ligation probe assay. All other investigations were performed using routine, well-established techniques. Results The subject is a 34-year-old, half-Chinese male; NF-1 was suspected at age 15 years for the first time. His medical history included preterm birth, mild facial dysmorphism, “café au lait” spots, subcutaneous and paravertebral fibromas, multifocal tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure in early infancy. Noncalcified bone fibromas in the femur and tibia were detected at age 8 years. Surgical right leg lengthening was carried out at age 11 years. Bilateral renal artery stenosis, stenosis and aneurysm of the superior mesenteric artery, and an infrarenal aortic stenosis were detected at age 15 years. Leg edema and ectasia of the basilar artery were diagnosed at age 18 years. After an episode with an erysipela at age 34 years, he developed pericardial and pleural effusion during a 4-month period. Stenosis of the left subclavian vein at the level of thoracic duct insertion was detected. After repeated pleural punctures, pleural effusion was interpreted as chylothorax. Reduction of lymph fluid production by diet and injection of talcum into the pleural cavity had a long-term beneficial effect on the chylothorax. Leg edema and chylothorax were attributed to affliction of the lymph vessels by the NF-1. Discussion Lymphangiopathy resulting in impaired lymph fluid flow and sequestration of lymph fluid into the pleural sinus and the legs may be a rare phenotypic feature of NF-1.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/aa/5e/PMC3772692.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4681931", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to examine the effects of traditional Thai self-massage using a Wilai massage stickTM versus ibuprofen on reducing upper back pain associated with myofascial trigger points. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty patients who were diagnosed as having upper back pain associated with myofascial trigger points were randomly allocated to either a massage group using a Wilai massage stickTM or a medication group taking ibuprofen for 5 days. Both groups were advised to perform the same daily stretching exercise program. Pain intensity, pressure pain threshold, tissue hardness, and cervical range of motion were assessed at baseline, immediately after the first treatment session, and on the fifth day after the last treatment session. [Results] The massage group had significant improvement in all parameters at all assessment time points. Similar changes were observed in the medication group except for the pressure pain threshold and tissue hardness. The adjusted post-test mean values for each assessment time point were significantly better in the massage group than in the medication group. [Conclusion] Tradition Thai self-massage using a Wilai massage stickTM provides better results than taking ibuprofen for patients who have upper back pain associated with myofascial trigger points. It could be an alternative treatment for this patient population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d4/97/jpts-27-3493.PMC4681931.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3506825", "abstract": "A 32-year-old man with blurred vision in the right eye and headache presented with anterior uveitis, an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 60 mmHg, an open angle, no visual field defects, and normal optic nerve. He had a history of five previous similar attacks. In each of the previous instances, his anterior uveitis and high IOP were controlled with antiglaucoma medications and topical steroids. However, at the fifth attack, his optic disc was pale and a superior paracentral visual field defect was shown. Brain magnetic resonance image studies were normal. This case represents that a recurrent Posner-Schlossman syndrome (PSS)-induced optic disc atrophy likely due to ocular ischemia caused by a recurrent, high IOP. Although PSS is a self-limiting syndrome, we should manage high IOP and prevent ischemia of the optic nerve head by treating with ocular antihypertensive medications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b0/0a/kjo-26-473.PMC3506825.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3661832", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of diagnosed cancer according to duration of diagnosed diabetes and current insulin use among U.S. adults with diagnosed diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We analyzed data from 25,964 adults aged ≥18 years with diagnosed diabetes who participated in the 2009 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. RESULTS After adjustment for potential confounders, we found that the greater the duration of diagnosed diabetes, the higher the prevalence of diagnosed cancers (P < 0.0001 for linear trend). Among adults with diagnosed type 2 diabetes, the prevalence estimate for cancers of all sites was significantly higher among men (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.6 [95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/7c/1569.PMC3661832.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC373454", "abstract": "Chlamydia trachomatis has been recognized as a pathogen of trachoma, nongonococcal urethritis, salpingitis, endocervicitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, inclusion conjunctivitis of neonates, follicular conjunctivitis of adults, infantile pneumonia and associated conditions. Chlamydial infections during pregnancy may also cause a variety of perinatal complications. Different antigenic strains of C. trachomatis from endocervical, nasopharyngeal and conjunctival origins have been associated with different clinical conditions. Control programs emphasizing early diagnosis, targeted screening, and effective treatment will lead to an eventual decline in the incidence of perinatal chlamydial infection. This review focuses on current problems of perinatal C. trachomatis infections in the aspects of microbiological and immunological pathogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1c/15/PMC373454.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2837470", "abstract": "The 317 residue PBCV-1 mRNA capping enzyme catalyzes the second enzymatic reaction in the formation of an N-7-methyl-GMP cap on the 5′-end of the nascent mRNA. It is composed of two globular domains bound by a short flexible peptide linker, which have been shown to undergo opening and closing events. The small size and experimentally demonstrated domain mobility make the PBCV-1 capping enzyme an ideally suited model system to explore domain mobility in context of substrate binding. Here, we specifically address the following four questions: (1) How does substrate binding affect relative domain mobility: is the system better described by an induced fit or population shift mechanism? (2) What are the gross characteristics of a conformation capable of binding substrate? (3) Does “domain gating” of the active site affect the rate of substrate binding? (4) Does the magnitude of receptor conformational fluctuations confer substrate specificity by sterically occluding molecules of a particular size or geometry? We answer these questions using a combination of theory, Brownian dynamics, and molecular dynamics. Our results show that binding efficiency is a function of conformation but that isomerization between efficient and inefficient binding conformations does not impact the substrate association rate. Additionally, we show that conformational flexibility alone is insufficient to explain single stranded mRNA specificity. While our results are specific to the PBCV-1 mRNA capping enzyme, they provide a useful context within which the substrate binding behavior of similarly structured enzymes or proteins may be considered.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/23/3a/PMC2837470.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4003269", "abstract": "Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) and multifocal retinitis with perivascular sheathing are rare in ocular toxoplasmosis. We report a case of toxoplasmic CRAO and multifocal retinitis with perivascular sheathing. A healthy 83-year-old male developed left panuveitis. Funduscopic examination of the left eye showed a swollen optic disc and sheathing of the retinal artery with a dense vitreous haze and a white retinal lesion. Serum anti-toxoplasma antibodies were positive in a latex agglutination assay. Vitrectomy was performed to improve visualization of the retinal lesions and for examination of causative microorganisms. A postoperative fundus examination revealed CRAO with optic disc involvement and multifocal retinitis with perivascular sheathing. Qualitative multiplex polymerase chain reaction detected the Toxoplasma gondii B1 gene in ocular fluid from both the aqueous and vitreous humor. The presumed diagnosis of ocular toxoplasmosis was made and treatment was started with prednisone and acetylspiramycin with subsequent improvement. Two months later, the patient developed active retinochoroiditis in the left eye. After 6 weeks of anti-toxoplasma therapy, the disease involuted. Retinal vascular occlusions and multifocal retinitis with perivascular sheathing are rare in toxoplasmosis. This is the first case report of toxoplasmic CRAO and multifocal retinitis with perivascular sheathing. The diagnosis of ocular toxoplasmosis should be considered in patients with retinal artery occlusions and multifocal retinitis with perivascular sheathing associated with inflammation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/e1/opth-8-789.PMC4003269.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4138885", "abstract": "The current investigation examined the interactive effect of dysfunctional dating attitudes and religiosity on substance use in a large sample of youth (N = 1,357) from the YouthStyles survey. Based on past research, we explored the possibility that religiosity buffered the association between dysfunctional dating attitudes and substance use. Because age was significantly associated with all study variables, we included age in our analyses. In support of our hypothesis we found an attitude by religiosity by age interaction among youth with moderate levels of dysfunctional dating attitudes. Among these youth, the buffering effect of religiosity increased with age. For youth with low and high dysfunctional dating attitudes, religiosity did not buffer the association. The results of this study are in line with past work that suggests that the association between relationship characteristics and substance use is complex. It also identifies religiosity as a protective factor for the effect of dating attitudes on substance use but suggests that these effects may be the most important for youth with moderate levels of dysfunctional dating attitudes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5b/7e/PMC4138885.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4841872", "abstract": "Background: Serum levels of lipocalin 2 (LCN 2) and retinol-binding protein-4 (RBP 4), increase in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We sought to determine whether serum LCN 2 and RBP 4 change after an intervention with omega-3 fatty acids supplementation in diabetic patients. Methods: Forty-five type 2 diabetic patients from Iranian Diabetic Association in Tehran, Iran in 2013 were randomly recruited into two groups: one group received 4 g/d omega-3 for 10 wk; and the control group received placebo. Blood samples, food intake records, anthropometric measurements were obtained from all participants at the beginning and end of the study. Results: Fasting RBP 4 plasma levels significantly changed after 10 wk supplementation (P = 0.01). The LCN 2 concentrations decreased in omega-3 group, but the changes were not statistically significant. Omega-3 supplementation had no noticeable effect on anthropometric factors. Conclusion: These findings provide a rationale for omega-3 supplements aimed at lowering serum RBP 4 levels in T2DM.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/00/a2/PMC4841872.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3222264", "abstract": "We wanted to determine whether autonomic dysfunction in patients with lymphoma is related to chemotherapy or represent a paraneoplastic syndrome. 40 patients with current or cured Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma and 40 healthy controls, matched for age, gender, hypertension and diabetes mellitus underwent autonomic evaluation (Deep Breath, Valsalva Maneuver, Hand Grip, Lying to Standing, Tilt Test). Current patients also suffering from diabetes or hypertension, or still on chemotherapy revealed autonomic changes, while cured or healthy subjects did not. Autonomic dysfunction in lymphoma is a transient manifestation of a paraneoplastic syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/95/PMC3222264.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4138795", "abstract": "The extracellular concentration of adenosine in the brain increases dramatically during ischemia. Adenosine A2A receptor is expressed in neurons and glial cells and in inflammatory cells (lymphocytes and granulocytes). Recently, adenosine A2A receptor emerged as a potential therapeutic attractive target in ischemia. Ischemia is a multifactorial pathology characterized by different events evolving in the time. After ischemia the early massive increase of extracellular glutamate is followed by activation of resident immune cells, that is, microglia, and production or activation of inflammation mediators. Proinflammatory cytokines, which upregulate cell adhesion molecules, exert an important role in promoting recruitment of leukocytes that in turn promote expansion of the inflammatory response in ischemic tissue. Protracted neuroinflammation is now recognized as the predominant mechanism of secondary brain injury progression. A2A receptors present on central cells and on blood cells account for important effects depending on the time-related evolution of the pathological condition. Evidence suggests that A2A receptor antagonists provide early protection via centrally mediated control of excessive excitotoxicity, while A2A receptor agonists provide protracted protection by controlling massive blood cell infiltration in the hours and days after ischemia. Focus on inflammatory responses provides for adenosine A2A receptor agonists a wide therapeutic time-window of hours and even days after stroke.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/67/25/PMC4138795.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4745507", "abstract": "Coconut copra from West coast tall variety, cultivated in Kerala, India, was subjected to aqueous and solvent extractions (using n-hexane). Additionally, oil was extracted from the copra in Soxhlet assembly using petroleum ether (b.p. 60–80°C). Physicochemical and phytochemical analyses were conducted for the extracts and the oil, with commercial coconut oil as the experimental control. The physicochemical analyses showed that the aqueous extract of copra was milky-white in color with a sweet odor, while the solvent extract was pale yellow and odorless. The commercial oil had 0.08 ± 0.02", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/41/3d/PMC4745507.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3743523", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the effect of aflibercept treatment after developing ranibizumab tachyphylaxis for the treatment of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). Patients and methods Ten eyes from ten patients with PCV who developed ranibizumab tachyphylaxis were reviewed. Tachyphylaxis was defined as when repeated intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) resulted in a complete lack of response after initial treatment response. All treatments were converted to intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) after development of ranibizumab tachyphylaxis. Central retinal thickness (CRT) was compared at baseline, at complete resolution after IVR, at reactivation after IVR, at initial IVA, and at 4 and 12 weeks after initial IVA. Results Mean number of IVR treatments before conversion to IVA was 11.3 (range 5–16). All eyes had positive therapeutic responses after conversion to IVA. Mean CRT at 4 and 12 weeks after initial IVA was significantly decreased from baseline initial IVA (P = 0.005). Conclusion Switching therapy to aflibercept is effective for patients with PCV who develop tachyphylaxis to ranibizumab.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/46/e3/opth-7-1591.PMC3743523.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5423318", "abstract": "Limited duration of transgene expression, insertional mutagenesis, and size limitations for transgene cassettes pose challenges and risk factors for many gene therapy vectors. Here, we report on physiological expression of liver phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) by delivery of naked DNA/minicircle (MC)-based vectors for correction of homozygous enu2 mice, a model of human phenylketonuria (PKU). Because MC vectors lack a defined size limit, we constructed a MC vector expressing a codon-optimized murine Pah cDNA that includes a truncated intron and is under the transcriptional control of a 3.6-kb native Pah promoter/enhancer sequence. This vector, delivered via hydrodynamic injection, yielded therapeutic liver PAH activity and sustained correction of blood phenylalanine comparable to viral or synthetic liver promoters. Therapeutic efficacy was seen with vector copy numbers of <1 vector genome per diploid hepatocyte genome and was achieved at a vector dose that was significantly lowered. Partial hepatectomy and subsequent liver regeneration was associated with >95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/7f/main.PMC5423318.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2200758", "abstract": "To retrospectively study the long-term outcome of patients after anterior cervical discectomy without fusion (ACD) compared to results published on the long-term outcome after ACD with fusion (ACDF). We reviewed the charts of all patients receiving ACD surgery between 1985 and 2000 to analyze the direct post-operative results as well as complications of the surgery. Moreover, 102 patients, randomly selected, were interviewed with the neck disability index to study possible persisting complaints up to 18 years after ACD surgery. A total of 551 Patients were identified. Two months post-operative follow up at the outpatient clinic revealed that 90.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5c/01/PMC2200758.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2868185", "abstract": "The purpose of this research was to evaluate the maximum stress around osseointegrated implants and alveolar ridge, in a mandible with left partial resection through a photoelastic mandibular model. The first group consisted of two implants: traditional model (T), implants placed in the position of both canines; fulcrum model (F), implants placed in the position of left canine CL and right lateral incisor LiR. Both models linked through a bar and clips. The second group was consisted of three implants, with implants placed in the position of both canines (CR and CL) and the right lateral incisor (LiR), which composed four groups: (1) model with 3 “O” rings, (2) model 2 ERAs, bar with clips, (3) model 2 ERAs bar without clips; (4) model “O” ring bar and ERA. An axial and an oblique load of 6.8 kgf was applied on a overdenture at the 1st Pm, 2nd Pm, and 1st M. Results showed that the area around the left canine (CL) was practically free of stress; the left lateral incisor (LiL) developed only small tensions, and low stress in all the other cases; the right canine tooth suffered the largest concentrations of stress, mainly with the ERA retention mechanism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/16/PMC2868185.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3359710", "abstract": "Epidemiological, clinical, physiological, cellular, and molecular evidence suggests that the origins of obesity and metabolic dysfunction can be traced back to intrauterine life and supports an important role for maternal nutrition prior to and during gestation in fetal programming. The elucidation of underlying mechanisms is an area of interest and intense investigation. In this perspectives paper we propose that in addition to maternal nutrition-related processes it may be important to concurrently consider the potential role of intrauterine stress and stress biology. We frame our arguments in the larger context of an evolutionary-developmental perspective that supports roles for both nutrition and stress as key environmental conditions driving natural selection and developmental plasticity. We suggest that intrauterine stress exposure may interact with the nutritional milieu, and that stress biology may represent an underlying mechanism mediating the effects of diverse intrauterine perturbations, including but not limited to maternal nutritional insults (undernutrition and overnutrition), on brain and peripheral targets of programming of body composition, energy balance homeostasis, and metabolic function. We discuss putative maternal-placental-fetal endocrine and immune/inflammatory candidate mechanisms that may underlie the long-term effects of intrauterine stress. We conclude with a commentary of the implications for future research and clinical practice.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b3/a9/PMC3359710.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3814191", "abstract": "Bidirectional best hits (BBH), which entails identifying the pairs of genes in two different genomes that are more similar to each other than either is to any other gene in the other genome, is a simple and widely used method to infer orthology. A recent study has analyzed the link between BBH and orthology in bacteria and archaea and concluded that, given the very high consistency in BBH they observed among triplets of neighboring genes, a high proportion of BBH are likely to be bona fide orthologs. However, limited by their analysis setup, the previous study could not easily test the reverse question: which proportion of orthologs are BBH? In this follow-up study, we consider this question in theory and answer it based on conceptual arguments, simulated data, and real biological data from all three domains of life. Our analyses corroborate the findings of the previous study, but also show that because of the high rate of gene duplication in plants and animals, as much as 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/12/71/evt132.PMC3814191.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4676624", "abstract": "Background Alcohol-dependent patients usually experience negative affects under the influence of alcohol, and these affective symptoms have been shown to decrease as a result of alcohol-withdrawal treatment. A recent cognitive–affective model suggests an interaction between drug motivation and affective symptoms. The aim of this multicenter study was to evaluate the psychological changes in subjects undergoing a residential rehabilitation program specifically designed for alcohol addiction, and to identify at discharge patients with greater affective symptoms and therefore more at risk of relapse. Materials and methods The sample included 560 subjects (mean age 46.91±10.2 years) who completed 28-day rehabilitation programs for alcohol addiction, following a tailored routine characterized by short duration and high intensity of medical and psychotherapeutic treatment. The psychological clinical profiles of anxiety, depression, psychological distress, psychological well-being, and self-perception of a positive change were assessed using the Cognitive Behavioral Assessment – Outcome Evaluation questionnaire at the beginning and at the end of the program. The changes in the psychological variables of the questionnaire were identified and considered as outcome evaluation of the residential intervention. Moreover, differences in the psychological functioning between patients with different characteristics were investigated. Results The score measured by the Cognitive Behavioral Assessment – Outcome Evaluation showed significant improvements in all the psychological characteristics assessed, and the profile at discharge was within the normal scores. Some significant differences were found in relation to specific characteristics of the sample, such as age, sex, level of education, type of intervention, and polysubstance use. Conclusion This study shows the changes in psychological profile in subjects undergoing residential rehabilitation from alcohol and how this profile may permit identification of subjects requiring more psychosocial support after discharge.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/44/ndt-11-2989.PMC4676624.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3316978", "abstract": " Aim. To determine gastric tissue lactoferrin (Lf) levels of Helicobacter pylori- (Hp-) positive and -negative patients and its effect on anemia. Methods. Cases in which initial presentation was of abdominal pain and that were Hp-positive at endoscopy were included. Hp-positive cases and -negative controls were divided into two groups.  Results. The study included 64 cases (average: 10.2 ± 0.4 years, 39 male and 25 female). Lf levels were subsequently studied on 61 cases. 45 (73.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/51/PMC3316978.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4385730", "abstract": "Excessive gingival visibility during smile is a common esthetic complaint in dentistry, but excessive gingival visibility in resting lip position is relatively uncommon condition. Several exclusive radical to conservative surgical treatment or its combination with orthodontic therapy to treat this condition are within the reach of every patient nowadays. A case report of an excessive gingival visibility because of altered passive eruption along with inversely inclined maxillary anterior teeth is presented here. A relatively simple treatment approach combining periodontal and restorative therapy is used here to achieve the desirable aesthetic results. The gingival exposure resulting from altered passive eruption was completely managed by a gingivectomy, but the inclined appearance of teeth was still an aesthetic complaint. After complete healing of gingivectomy surgery, appropriately designed crowns were given to rectify the inversely inclined appearance. A complete rehabilitation of patient’s smile could be achieved, the case was followed up for 3 years and the condition was found satisfactory.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/e9/JIOH-7-64.PMC4385730.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3013715", "abstract": "We updated the plant transcription factor (TF) database to version 2.0 (PlantTFDB 2.0, http://planttfdb.cbi.pku.edu.cn) which contains 53 319 putative TFs predicted from 49 species. We made detailed annotation including general information, domain feature, gene ontology, expression pattern and ortholog groups, as well as cross references to various databases and literature citations for these TFs classified into 58 newly defined families with computational approach and manual inspection. Multiple sequence alignments and phylogenetic trees for each family can be shown as Weblogo pictures or downloaded as text files. We have redesigned the user interface in the new version. Users can search TFs with much more flexibility through the improved advanced search page, and the search results can be exported into various formats for further analysis. In addition, we now provide web service for advanced users to access PlantTFDB 2.0 more efficiently.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/f1/gkq1141.PMC3013715.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3875293", "abstract": "This paper describes a malaria knowledge test (MKT) developed to evaluate a web-based game for students who increasingly travel to malaria-risk regions of the world. The 18-item MKT was structured according to the dimensions of the self-regulation model (SRM) to measure the accuracy of students’ beliefs about malaria. An experimental design was used to compare three game versions. Students (N=482) participated in 2010 by completing a pre-test, playing a Web-based game simulating student travel to malaria-endemic destinations, and completing a post-test. Study data support the validity and reliability of the MKT for the evaluation of malaria education interventions and for student self-assessment. Use of the MKT to evaluate an educational game about malaria revealed a strong overall learning effect and discrimination by game version, travel experience, and SRM dimension. This 5-min test may also be adapted for educational outreach purposes among health care providers globally, residents of malaria-endemic regions, and other high risk travel groups (e.g., elderly, chronic health conditions, pregnant, or returning to malaria-endemic regions to visit friends/relatives).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/d6/nihms404711.PMC3875293.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3372794", "abstract": "In the 1980s, Gram-negative pathogens appeared to have been beaten by oxyimino-cephalosporins, carbapenems, and fluoroquinolones. Yet these pathogens have fought back, aided by their membrane organization, which promotes the exclusion and efflux of antibiotics, and by a remarkable propensity to recruit, transfer, and modify the expression of resistance genes, including those for extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), carbapenemases, aminoglycoside-blocking 16S rRNA methylases, and even a quinolone-modifying variant of an aminoglycoside-modifying enzyme. Gram-negative isolates -both fermenters and non-fermenters-susceptible only to colistin and, more variably, fosfomycin and tigecycline, are encountered with increasing frequency, including in Korea. Some ESBLs and carbapenemases have become associated with strains that have great epidemic potential, spreading across countries and continents; examples include Escherichia coli sequence type (ST)131 with CTX-M-15 ESBL and Klebsiella pneumoniae ST258 with KPC carbapenemases. Both of these high-risk lineages have reached Korea. In other cases, notably New Delhi Metallo carbapenemase, the relevant gene is carried by promiscuous plasmids that readily transfer among strains and species. Unless antibiotic stewardship is reinforced, microbiological diagnosis accelerated, and antibiotic development reinvigorated, there is a real prospect that the antibiotic revolution of the 20th century will crumble.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dc/17/kjim-27-128.PMC3372794.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5192068", "abstract": "The concept of immune memory forms the biological basis for vaccination programs. Despite advancements in the field of immune memory and vaccination, most current vaccines are evaluated by magnitude of antigen-specific antibody titers in serum or mucosa after vaccination. It has been shown, however, that antibody-mediated humoral immune memory is established regardless of the magnitude and duration of immune reactions, suggesting that assessment of vaccine efficacy should be performed for several years after vaccination. This long-term investigation is disadvantageous for prevalent and pandemic infections. Long-lived memory plasma cells and memory helper T cells which contribute to humoral immune memory are generated in the bone marrow after migration of memory cell precursors through bloodstream. Thus, it may be a novel evaluation strategy to assess the precursors of memory cells in the blood in the early phase of the immune reaction(s). We here review recent advances on the generation and maintenance of immune memory cells involved in humoral immunity and introduce a current concept of direct and short-term assessment of humoral immune memory formation upon vaccination as a correlate of protection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ff/d5/cti201681a.PMC5192068.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4038538", "abstract": "Background Canadian physicians are responsible for assessing medical fitness to drive; however, national data indicate that physicians lack confidence in performing such assessments and face numerous barriers to addressing driving in patients with dementia. We report on the impact of a provincial Web-based resource (www.notifbutwhen.ca) regarding driving cessation in dementia aimed towards primary care physicians (PCPs). Methods A pre/post cross-sectional survey (n = 134 baseline and n = 113 follow-up) of English-speaking, Nova Scotian PCPs. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, Pearson correlation, and multivariable logistic regression (controlling for sex, years of practice, and practice type) are reported. Results Most PCPs consider discussions regarding driving cessation to be routine part of dementia care; however, report multiple barriers to such discussions. Although the Web-based resource and awareness campaign were not associated with improvement in physician comfort in assessing driving risk in dementia, after completion of the campaign, fewer PCPs reported avoiding the topic of driving. Additionally, family resistance and lack of resources were less often reported as barriers. Conclusions Despite a lack of confidence, Nova Scotian PCPs routinely discuss driving cessation, and perform driving assessments for individuals with dementia. The Web-based resource and awareness campaign have shown moderate effectiveness in addressing specific barriers to assessment (e.g., caregiver resistance, lack of resources). Future efforts will address additional barriers, such as lack of comfort in decision-making.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/15/cgj-17-70.PMC4038538.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4852955", "abstract": "An aneurysm of the ductus arteriosus is a rare finding, particularly in the adult population. These saccular aneurysms arise at the site of an incompletely obliterated ductus arteriosus along the lesser curvature of the aortic arch. Left untreated, it is associated with a high risk of potentially life-threatening complications including rupture, infection and thromboembolism. As a result, surgical correction is recommended. Previously, options were limited to open repair but as endovascular experience grows, novel techniques afford safer and less invasive alternatives. In contrast, neonatal ductus arteriosus aneurysms may regress spontaneously and expectant treatment can be justified. We present the case of a 74-year-old woman who presented with hoarseness secondary to a ductus arteriosus aneurysm; a diagnosis consistent with Ortner’s syndrome. The patient underwent an uncomplicated endovascular repair using the chimney-graft technique.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/42/69/rjw060.PMC4852955.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3897696", "abstract": "Anti-leucine-rich glioma inactivated-1 (LGI1) limbic encephalitis (LE) is a rare neurological disorder that has a subacute course of progressive encephalopathy and fasciobrachial dystonic seizures. We report a patient with anti-LGI1 LE that presented with atypical manifestations that complicated the diagnosis. A 62-year-old woman presented with a chronic course of memory disturbance and a subsequent relapse with an altered mental status after 10 months. The patient reported frequent chest pain of squeezing and dull nature, typically lasting 10-30 seconds. The chest pain was related to partial seizures, which were confirmed by video-EEG monitoring. Anti-LGI1 antibody was identified in serum and CSF. The patient's symptoms improved by immune modulation treatment. Patients with anti-LGI1 LE can experience atypical partial seizures, and a chronic relapsing course. Clinical suspicions and video-EEG monitoring are helpful for the early diagnosis and effective immune modulation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d5/3f/en-22-337.PMC3897696.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2775677", "abstract": "Derangements in serum phosphate level result in rickets/osteomalacia or ectopic calcification indicating that healthy people without these abnormalities maintain serum phosphate within certain ranges. These results indicate that there must be a regulatory mechanism of serum phosphate level. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) was identified as the last member of FGF family. FGF23 is produced by bone and reduces serum phosphate level by suppressing phosphate reabsorption in proximal tubules and intestinal phosphate absorption through lowering 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D level. It has been shown that excess and deficient actions of FGF23 result in hypophosphatemic rickets/osteomalacia and hyperphosphatemic tumoral calcinosis, respectively. These results indicate that FGF23 works as a hormone, and several disorders of phosphate metabolism can be viewed as endocrine diseases. It may become possible to treat patients with abnormal phosphate metabolism by pharmacologically modifying the activity of FGF23.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ac/d6/PMC2775677.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3789621", "abstract": "Tumor-to-tumor metastasis is a clinical entity that has been documented in medical literature as early as the 1900s. It is rare and published primarily as case reports, although its incidence seems to be on the rise as a result of improving medical care in developed countries. We report an unusual case of metatstatic breast tumor to a benign renal tumor, in a patient with a remote history of breast cancer. This case reinforces in our minds the enigmatic nature of breast cancer and its wide spectrum of clinical behavior.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/b6/rjt006.PMC3789621.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4455848", "abstract": "Background Many patients have erroneous views with regard to depression and its management, and it was noted that these attitudes and beliefs significantly affected their adherence rates. Objectives The primary aim of this study was to determine the attitudes and beliefs of patients with depression toward depression and antidepressants. A secondary aim was to assess the influence of ethnicity on patients’ attitudes and beliefs. Patients and methods The study involved patients with chronic depression being followed up at an outpatient clinic at a government-run hospital in Malaysia. Patients’ attitudes and beliefs were assessed using the Antidepressant Compliance Questionnaire. Results A total of 104 patients of Malay, Chinese, and Indian ethnic groups met the selection criteria. Chinese patients had significantly negative attitudes and beliefs toward depression and antidepressants compared to Malays and Indians (b=-8.96, t103=-3.22; P<0.05). Component analysis revealed that 59", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ef/74/ndt-11-1339.PMC4455848.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4298850", "abstract": "In this study, we examined arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) community structure colonizing field-cultivated ginseng roots according of different ages, such as 1- to 5-year-old plant, collected from Geumsan-gun, Korea. A total of seven AMF species namely, Funnelliformis caledonium, F. moseae, Gigaspora margarita, Paraglomus laccatum, P. occultum, Rhizophagus irregularis, and Scutellospora heterogama were identified from the roots using cloning, PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism and sequence analysis of the large subunit region in rDNA. AMF species diversity in the ginseng roots decreased with the increase in root age because of the decreased species evenness. In addition, the community structures of AMF in the roots became more uniform. These results suggest that the age of ginseng affects mycorrhizal colonization and its community structure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/8b/mb-42-416.PMC4298850.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4599052", "abstract": "Background Although sarcopenia represents a challenging burden for health care systems around the world, its prevalence in the elderly population varies widely. The primary aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia in community-dwelling (CD) German women aged 70 years and older; the secondary aim was to assess the effect of osteoarthritis (OA) on sarcopenia prevalence in this cohort. Methods A total of 689 Caucasian females 18–35 years old and 1,325 CD females 70 years+ living in Northern Bavaria, Germany, were assessed during the initial phase of the FORMoSA research project. Anthropometry, total and regional muscle mass, were assessed by segmental multifrequency Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis. Further 10 m walking speed and handgrip strength were evaluated to apply the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People definition of sarcopenia. Covariates were determined by questionnaires and interviews. Results Applying the algorithm of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People of two standard deviations below the mean value for appendicular skeletal muscle mass of a reference cohort of the young cohort (5.66 kg/m2), low gait speed (≤0.8 m/s), and low grip strength (<20 kg), the prevalence of sarcopenia in CD German females 70 years and older was 4.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/6a/cia-10-1565.PMC4599052.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5362014", "abstract": "Objectives The aim of this retrospective analysis was to determine the seroprevalence of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) antigenaemia among owned cats in Vienna and the surrounding area. Methods Samples were tested between 1996 and 2011 by the Department of Clinical Virology at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria. All samples were sent to the university as part of routine diagnostic procedures, either to determine infection in clinically symptomatic individuals or to rule out infection prior to vaccination. To allow for statistical comparison, samples analysed between 2008 and 2011 were pooled into one population (n = 444) and evaluated against samples tested in 1996 (n = 840). Furthermore, analyses of subgroups were undertaken to determine the effect of sex and age on the prevalence of FeLV antigenaemia. Results With respect to the samples tested at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, it was determined that the level of FeLV antigenaemia in eastern Austria between 1996 and 2011 was 5.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/63/10.1177_2055116915598336.PMC5362014.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3941590", "abstract": " Purpose. To describe the normative values of corneal endothelial cell density, morphology, and central corneal thickness in healthy Turkish eyes. Methods. Specular microscopy was performed in 252 eyes of 126 healthy volunteers (M : F, 42 : 84). Parameters studied included mean endothelial cell density (MCD), mean cell area (MCA), coefficient of variation (CV) in cell size, percentage of hexagonal cells, and central corneal thickness (CCT). Results. The mean age of volunteers was 44.3 ± 13.5 (range, 20 to 70) years. There was a statistically significant decrease in MCD (P < 0.001; correlation, −0.388) and percentage of hexagonal cells, (P < 0.001; correlation, −0.199) with age. There was also a statistically significant increase in MCA (P < 0.001; correlation, 0.363) with increasing age. There was no statistically significant difference in MCD, MCA, CV in cell size, percentage of hexagonal cells, and CCT between genders and there was also no significant difference in these parameters between fellow eyes of subjects. Conclusions. Normotive data for the endothelium in the Turkish population are reported. Endothelial cell density in the Turkish eyes is less than that described in the Japanese, American, Chinese, and Filipino eyes and higher than that described in Indian, Thai, and Iranian eyes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/07/53/PMC3941590.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4351034", "abstract": "A 72-year-old man with jaundice by ampullary adenocarcinoma was treated at our hospital. For biliary decompression, a transpapillary, fully covered, self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) was deployed. Four days later, the patient developed acute cholangitis. Endoscopic carbon dioxide cholangiography revealed kinking of the common bile duct above the proximal end of the FCSEMS. A 7-F double-pigtail plastic stent was therefore placed through the FCSEMS to correct the kink, straightening the common bile duct (CBD) and improving cholangitis. This is the first report of a unique use of a double-pigtail plastic stent to correct CBD kinking. The placement of a double-pigtail plastic stent can correct CBD kinking, without requiring replacement or addition of a FCSEMS, and can lead to cost savings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/dc/gnl-09-251.PMC4351034.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3909864", "abstract": "We hereby report a case of diffuse pelvic peritoneal involvement by immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD). Numerous pelvic masses and nodules showing delayed enhancement on enhanced abdominal CT were found to congregate in the pelvic organs of a 57-year-old female presenting with intestinal subocclusion. The differentiation between peritoneal IgG4-RD and pelvic peritoneal carcinomatosis was only made by histopathology and immunohistochemistry performed after surgical resection. Autoimmune pancreatitis represents the historical prototype of IgG4-RD, but the spectrum of manifestations involving various organs has expanded during the last decade. In this report, we shortly review this clinical entity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/dd/kjr-15-66.PMC3909864.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5287176", "abstract": "Management of severely dilated pulmonary artery (PA) associated with severe pulmonary hypertension from congenital heart disease remains controversial, primarily due to its rare nature and concern for perioperative unpredictable complications. Herein, we report a 25 year-old female with a severely dilated PA (up to 73 mm), who was successfully treated by a PA graft replacement by creating a Y-shaped conduit using a 28 mm hemashield tube in the main PA and a 20 mm hemashield tube in both proximal parts of the branch PA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/fb/kcj-47-136.PMC5287176.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4365745", "abstract": "Background There is an ongoing debate on whether patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) seen in real-life clinical settings are represented in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of COPD. It is thought that the stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria of RCTs may prevent the participation of patients with specific characteristics or risk factors. Methods We surveyed a database of patients recruited into 35 placebo-controlled tiotropium RCTs and also conducted a systematic literature review of large-scale observational studies conducted in patients with a documented diagnosis of COPD between 1990 and 2013. Patient demographics and comorbidities with a high prevalence in patients with COPD were compared between the two patient populations at baseline. Using the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA; v 14.0), patient comorbidities in the pooled tiotropium RCTs were classified according to system organ class, pharmacovigilance (PV) endpoints, and Standardised MedDRA Queries to enable comparison with the observational studies. Results We identified 24,555 patients in the pooled tiotropium RCTs and 61,361 patients among the 13 observational studies that met our search criteria. The Global initiative for chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) staging of patients in the RCTs differed from that in observational studies: the proportion of patients with GOLD stages I+II disease ranged from 40.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/15/3d/copd-10-549.PMC4365745.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4360528", "abstract": "Aneurysms within renal angiomyolipomas (AML) may rupture into the tumor or pararenal space. Transcatheter arterial embolization is the first-choice treatment to control bleeding. Here, we describe the use of coil embolization in two cases of spontaneous intratumoral hemorrhage with the hemodynamic characteristics of renal arteriovenous (AV) fistula in renal AML. In case 1, renal angiography showed several intratumoral aneurysms, one of which had ruptured into the tumor, resulting in the formation of an intratumoral hematoma. Blood flow within the hematoma was rapid and the blood was immediately returned to the systemic circulation through the left renal vein. In case 2, renal angiography showed that the rupture of an intratumoral aneurysm of a tumor-feeding artery had resulted in formation of an intratumoral hematoma and direct renal vein communication. No extratumoral hemorrhage was observed in either case. The hemodynamics of both hematomas resembled those of a high-flow renal AV fistula. The ruptured aneurysms were embolized with detachable and pushable coils (case 1) or pushable coils only (case 2). To our knowledge, this is the first report of successful embolization of AV fistula-like intratumoral hemorrhage in renal AML.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/44/41/cnd-0005-0054.PMC4360528.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2811909", "abstract": "The multicenter study conducted by Lorente and coworkers published in the previous issue of Critical Care demonstrates that matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and MMP-10 and their inhibitor tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) are promising novel biomarkers to predict severity and outcome of sepsis. In recent years MMPs have emerged as biomarkers in a variety of diseases, such as sepsis, coronary artery disease, cancer, heart failure, chronic lung disease and rheumatoid arthritis. MMPs constitute a family of proteinases that are expressed during developmental, physiological, and pathophysiological processes, for example as a response to infection. Excessive inflammation following infection may cause tissue damage, and MMPs are implicated in causing this immunopathology. The activity of MMPs is regulated by secretion of specific inhibitors (TIMPs). Studies using MMP inhibitors and MMP knockout mice indicate that MMPs play an essential role in infection and in the host response to infection. The measurement of MMP-9 and MMP-10 and their inhibitor TIMP-1 in the intensive care setting could be an attractive noninvasive tool for determination of outcome of septic patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/80/9d/PMC2811909.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4041182", "abstract": "Melanoma today is considered as a spectrum of melanocytic malignancies characterised by clinical and molecular features, including targetable mutations in several kinases such as BRAF or c-KIT. The successful development of therapies targeting these mutations has resulted in new specific treatment options. These include vemurafenib, dabrafenib, trametinib, imatinib and other kinase inhibitors that are selected when the respective mutation is present. The BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib has resulted in improved survival in patients with BRAF-mutated advanced melanoma. Dabrafenib has shown similar efficacy. The MEK inhibitor trametinib also improved overall survival. In addition, the MEK inhibitor MEK 162 was investigated in a phase II clinical trial and showed promising efficacy in terms of response rate and progression-free survival (PFS) in NRAS-mutated melanomas. After this first success in the treatment of advanced melanoma, there is expectation that combinations of kinase inhibitors will additionally improve overall survival rates and PFS in advanced melanoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c5/69/main.PMC4041182.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4347280", "abstract": "The radiologic findings of a single nodule from Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) have been rarely reported. We described a case of granulomatous PJP manifesting as a solitary pulmonary nodule with a halo sign in a 69-year-old woman with diffuse large B cell lymphoma during chemotherapy. The radiologic appearance of the patient suggested an infectious lesion such as angioinvasive pulmonary aspergillosis or lymphoma involvement of the lung; however, clinical manifestations were not compatible with the diseases. The nodule was confirmed as granulomatous PJP by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery biopsy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/51/f2/kjr-16-440.PMC4347280.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2751882", "abstract": "Ectopic thyroid tissue is an uncommon embryologic aberration characterized by the presence of thyroid tissue in a site other than its usual pre-tracheal location. Single ectopic thyroid tissue is the most common variant, and the base of the tongue is the most frequent ectopic location. Dual ectopic thyroid is extremely rare, and only eleven cases have been reported in the English literature. Furthermore, adenomatous hyperplasia has never been reported to arise from dual ectopic thyroid. There has been only one reported case of adenomatous hyperplasia arising from a single intratracheal ectopic thyroid. We report a case of adenomatous hyperplasia arising from dual ectopic thyroid tissue that presented as a sublingual mass in a 37-yr-old woman. The diagnosis was made through pathologic examination after surgical resection. We also discuss the diagnosis and treatment of ectopic thyroid, along with a review of the literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/86/c7/ceo-2-155.PMC2751882.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3987462", "abstract": "Unexplained menstrual-like cyclic vaginal bleeding, lasting for several days and without any uterine and vaginal anomaly, is a rare condition in prepubertal girls. Only small series (containing four to eleven cases) have been described in literature. We report our in nine girls presenting with vaginal bleeding without any abnormality at gynaecological, hormonal and echographic examination.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/d1/FVVinObGyn-3-267-270.PMC3987462.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3976943", "abstract": "A novel report on microwave assisted synthesis of bright carbon dots (C-dots) using gum arabic (GA) and its use as molecular vehicle to ferry ciprofloxacin hydrochloride, a broad spectrum antibiotic, is reported in the present work. Density gradient centrifugation (DGC) was used to separate different types of C-dots. After careful analysis of the fractions obtained after centrifugation, ciprofloxacin was attached to synthesize ciprofloxacin conjugated with C-dots (Cipro@C-dots conjugate). Release of ciprofloxacin was found to be extremely regulated under physiological conditions. Cipro@C-dots were found to be biocompatible on Vero cells as compared to free ciprofloxacin (1.2 mM) even at very high concentrations. Bare C-dots (∼13 mg mL−1) were used for microbial imaging of the simplest eukaryotic model—Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast). Bright green fluorescent was obtained when live imaging was performed to view yeast cells under fluorescent microscope suggesting C-dots incorporation inside the cells. Cipro@C-dots conjugate also showed enhanced antimicrobial activity against both model gram positive and gram negative microorganisms. Thus, the Cipro@C-dots conjugate paves not only a way for bioimaging but also an efficient new nanocarrier for controlled drug release with high antimicrobial activity, thereby serving potential tool for theranostics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/67/0f/PMC3976943.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3914913", "abstract": "Concerns about aluminum (Al) exposure in the human diet have persisted for one century. We suggest that continued research would benefit from better reporting of environmental factors that are known to influence Al accumulation in plant organs that are consumed, focusing on subsets of the general public that exhibit the highest risk for neuropathological responses, increased evaluation of commercial processing procedures that may concentrate Al or other toxic substances, and designing studies with low dose, chronic exposure rather than further study of acute, brief exposure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/1d/cib-6-e26369.PMC3914913.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3979265", "abstract": "Background and Objectives: The practice of emergency medicine has the primary mission of evaluating, managing and providing treatment to those patients with unexpected injury or illness. Instituting appropriate therapy is necessary for safety of the patients and to decrease mortality and morbidity. The objectives were to study the drug utilization pattern and direct cost of therapy in emergency medicine department of a tertiary care teaching hospital. Materials and Methods: Data of the patients admitted to emergency medicine department was collected prospectively for 48 h from the time of admission over 2 months. The prescriptions were analyzed for drug use pattern and direct cost of therapy was calculated. Results: A total of 156 patients received 1635 drugs with the mean of 9.99 ± 2.55 drugs/patient. Most common diagnosis was acute coronary syndrome 35 (21.79", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/79/JBCP-4-78.PMC3979265.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3184695", "abstract": "Insulin resistance is a common finding in hypertensive humans and animal models. The Dahl salt-sensitive (S) rat is an ideal model of genetically predetermined insulin resistance and salt-sensitive hypertension. Along the insulin signaling pathway, the insulin receptor substrates 1 and 2 (IRS-1 and -2) are important mediators of insulin signaling. IRS-1 and/or IRS-2 genetic variant(s) and/or enhanced serine phosphorylation correlate with insulin resistance. The present commentary was designed to highlight the significance of IRS-1 and/or -2 in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance. An emphasis will be given to the putative role of IRS-1 and/or -2 genetic variant(s) and serine phosphorylation in precipitating insulin resistance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/20/PMC3184695.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3594616", "abstract": "Diffuse follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma (DFVPTC) is a rare variant papillary thyroid carcinoma. DFVPTC typically occurs in young females, extensively involves one lobe or both lobes entirely with frequent nodal metastasis and vascular invasion. In contrast to the other subtypes of follicular variant, DFVPTC has biologically aggressive behavior. We present a case of DFVPTC arising in a 69-yr-old male patient. He presented hoarseness for a few months. Following diagnosis of malignancy on aspiration cytology, total thyroidectomy with neck dissection was performed. The tumor involved both lobes of thyroid, encroaching the surrounding structures including tracheal cartilage and esophagus. Multiple lymph node metastasis and vascular invasion were also found. The patient passed away due to the unexplained bleeding of surgical site.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/35/84/jkms-28-480.PMC3594616.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5039961", "abstract": "Introduction Primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET)/Ewing’s sarcoma (EWS) belongs to a family of neoplasms that are presumed to originate from the neuroectodermal crest. PNET/EWSs are highly aggressive malignancies that usually present in the form of bone or soft tissue masses and usually affect adolescents and young adults. Primary PNET/EWS of the kidney is very rare. Case Presentation We present the case of a 32-year-old female patient with primary renal PNET/EWS diagnosed nine years and eight months earlier. The patient presented with acute flank pain in the left lumbar region, hematuria, and episodes of high body temperature of 40°C. Abdominal ultrasound (US) and subsequently performed computed tomography (CT) revealed a large renal mass of heterogenous structure. The kidney tumor had central necrotic hypodense areas and strongly peripherally enhanced solid parts on postcontrast CT images. Immunohistochemistry revealed positivity for CD99 and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). Tumor cells were negative for CD3, CD 20, chromogranin, synaptophysin, vimentin, and neurofilament. Reverse transcription polymerase change reaction (RT-PCR) revealed EWS/FL1 translocation type 2. The patient underwent nephrectomy and polychemotherapy. The follow-up nine years and eight months after the diagnosis showed no evidence of tumor. Conclusions PNET/EWS should be included in the differential diagnosis of renal tumors in symptomatic young adults. Patients with localised PNET/EWS treated with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy have an excellent chance of long-term survival, as in the case we have presented.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/67/96/num-08-04-37950.PMC5039961.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3388640", "abstract": "Positional strategies have been proposed for mechanically ventilated patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Despite different physiological mechanisms involved, oxygenation improvement has been demonstrated with both prone and upright positions. In the previous issue of Critical Care, Robak and colleagues reported the first study evaluating the short-term effects of combining prone and upright positioning. The combined positioning enhanced the response rate in terms of oxygenation. Other benefits, such as a reduction in ventilator-associated pneumonia and better enteral feeding tolerance, can potentially be expected.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/66/c7/PMC3388640.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4630686", "abstract": "Objective: To assess the ability of ultra-high-field MRI to distinguish early progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) from multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions in a rare case of simultaneous presentation of natalizumab–associated PML and ongoing MS activity. Methods: Advanced neuroimaging including 1.5T, 3T, and 7T MRI with a spatial resolution of up to 0.08 mm3 was performed. Results: 7T MRI differentiated between PML-related and MS-related brain damage in vivo. Ring-enhancing MS plaques displayed a central vein, whereas confluent PML lesions were preceded by punctate or milky way–like T2 lesions. Conclusions: Given the importance of early diagnosis of treatment-associated PML, future systematic studies are warranted to assess the value of highly resolving MRI in differentiating between early PML- and MS-induced brain parenchymal lesions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/7c/NEURIMMINFL2015006049.PMC4630686.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4115597", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objectives Nitrosative stress plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. The aim of this study is to analyze the gingival crevicular fluid and saliva nitrite and nitrate levels in periodontally healthy and diseased sites. Material and Methods A total of 60 individuals including, 20 chronic periodontitis and 20 gingivitis patients and 20 periodontally healthy controls participated in the present study. Probing depth, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, gingival index and plaque index were assessed, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and saliva samples were obtained from the subjects, including 480 GCF samples and 60 unstimulated whole saliva samples. Nitrite and nitrate were analyzed by Griess reagent. Results Total GCF nitrite levels were higher in gingivitis and periodontitis groups (1.07 [SD 0.62] nmol and 1.08 [SD 0.59] nmol) than the control group (0.83 [SD 0.31] nmol) (P < 0.05) but did not differ significantly between gingivitis and periodontitis groups (P > 0.05). The difference in GCF nitrate level was not significant among the control, gingivitis and periodontitis groups (7.7 [SD 2.71] nmol, 7.51 [SD 4.16] nmol and 7.38 [SD 1.91] nmol). Saliva nitrite and nitrate levels did not differ significantly among three study groups. Saliva nitrate/nitrite ratios were higher in periodontitis and gingivitis groups than the control group. A gradual decrease in nitrate/nitrite ratio in GCF was detected with the presence of inflammation. Conclusions It may be suggested that nitrite in gingival crevicular fluid is a better periodontal disease marker than nitrate and may be used as an early detection marker of periodontal inflammation, and that local nitrosative stress markers don’t show significant difference between the initial and advanced stages of periodontal disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/ce/jomr-05-e5.PMC4115597.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3881809", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of glycolic propolis (PRO) and ginger (GIN) extracts, calcium hydroxide (CH), chlorhexidine (CLX) gel and their combinations as ICMs (ICMs) against Candida albicans, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli and endotoxins in root canals. Material and Methods: After 28 days of contamination with microorganisms, the canals were instrumented and then divided according to the ICM: CH+saline; CLX, CH+CLX, PRO, PRO+CH; GIN; GIN+CH; saline. The antimicrobial activity and quantification of endotoxins by the chromogenic test of Limulus amebocyte lysate were evaluated after contamination and instrumentation at 14 days of ICM application and 7 days after ICM removal. Results and Conclusion: After analysis of results and application of the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn statistical tests at 5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/42/jaos-21-01-0025.PMC3881809.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4747073", "abstract": "Background and Purpose The goal of stent retriever–based thrombectomy is removal of embolic clots in patients with intracranial large artery occlusion. However, outcomes of stent retrieval may differ between acute arterial occlusions due to intracranial atherosclerotic disease (IAD) and those due to embolism. This case series describes the outcomes of stent retriever–based thrombectomy and rescue treatments in 9 patients with IAD-related occlusion. Methods Among patients who underwent endovascular treatment for acute intracranial large artery occlusion, those in whom stent retrieval was attempted as first-line treatment were included in this review. IAD was defined as significant fixed focal stenosis at the occlusion site, which was evident on final angiographic assessment or observed during endovascular treatment. Results Median number of stent retriever passes was 2 (range, 1-3), and temporary bypass was seen in all patients. Immediate partial recanalization (arterial occlusive lesion grade 2-3) was observed in 7 patients. Immediate modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction grade 2b-3 was seen in 6 patients, but the lesions often required rescue treatment due to reocclusion or flow insufficiency. In terms of rescue treatments, angioplasty and intra-arterial tirofiban infusion seemed to be effective. Conclusions Our findings suggest that stent retrieval can effectively remove thrombi from stenotic lesions and achieve partial recanalization despite the tendency toward reocclusion in most patients with IAD-related occlusion. Further research into the use of rescue treatments, such as tirofiban infusion and angioplasty, is warranted.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/bb/jos-2015-01347.PMC4747073.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3563438", "abstract": "The revival of off-pump cardiac surgery and the exploration of less invasive techniques for coronary artery bypass grafting, have lead to an increasing technical difficulty, as compared to conventional surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass. The moving target vessel in off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery, as well as the increasingly limited space in minimally invasive cardiac surgery were not convenient to many surgeons, a fact that lead many surgeons to deprive their patients the potential benefits of these techniques.  Since the 1950’s, surgeons have attempted to make the anastomotic procedure less cumbersome and less time consuming. Many creative ideas and devices were made, but for many different reasons, they eventually faded away. Since then, hand-sewn anastomoses have been the standard of care in coronary artery bypass grafting. Today, with the obvious need for a facilitated and fast coronary anastomosis, interest in these anastomotic devices has been re-awakened. The exact geometry, physiology and dynamics of the perfect anastomosis have thus been studied, in an attempt to provide an understanding of reasons behind anastomosis and graft failure after coronary artery bypass surgery, and eventually design the best performing device. These devices would allow for a faster, more accurate and a more reproducible coronary anastomosis using minimally invasive techniques. Also, due to a short learning curve, the standardization of percutaneous devices would allow much more surgeons to more widely adopt less invasive techniques. In summary, we see anastomotic devices as a solution to the technical challenges surgeons encounter with minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/7c/hsrp-03-239.PMC3563438.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2782175", "abstract": "Cerebral infarction is an uncommon complication in multiple myeloma with hyperviscosity. Serum hyperviscosity may cause a variety of clinical manifestations including bleeding from mucosal membranes, congestive heart failure, retinopathy, and various neurologic deficits. These manifestations have been attributed to the presence of large quantities of asymmetrical molecules of high molecular weight in the serum. We recently experienced a case of multiple myeloma with acute cerebral infarction, which caused by hyperviscosity, as an initial manifestation in IgG multiple myeloma, and reviewed the relevant literature of myeloma presenting with the stroke. A 68-yr-old woman abruptly developed hypesthesia and monoplegia in the left leg. The stroke confirmed by the brain MRI and MR angiography, which revealed acute infarction at the right anterior cerebral artery territory. On admission, routine blood tests showed a slight decrease in hemoglobin and a marked increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Peripheral blood smear, serum protein electrophoresis, serum visocity, and bone marrow aspiration showed that she had IgG multiple myeloma with hyperviscosity. She was treated by chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide and discharged with the improved clinical condition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e8/e7/jkms-20-699.PMC2782175.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3199939", "abstract": "Acquired diaphragmatic hernias are usually posttraumatic in occurrence. In patients who have blunt trauma and associated diaphragmatic hernia, the diagnosis may be missed or delayed, often leading to poor treatment outcomes. We present a rare occurrence of tension viscerothorax due to missed traumatic diaphragmatic rupture in a 25-year-old woman whose condition was complicated by gangrene and perforation of the fundus as well as questionable viability of the anterior wall of the body of the stomach. The patient had a successful emergency transabdominal suture plication of the diaphragm and gastroplasty and has remained symptomless 3 months postoperatively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c7/84/PMC3199939.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3451648", "abstract": "Medication overuse headache (MOH) is a daily or almost-daily type of headache that results from the chronicization, usually migraine or tension-type headache, as a consequence of the progressive increase of intake of symptomatic drugs. MOH is now the third most frequent type of headache and affects a percentage of 1–1.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ee/ce/PMC3451648.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3153915", "abstract": " Objective. To determine if supplementation of protein and amino acids (PAA) decreases skeletal muscle expression of atrophy-related genes, muscle mass, and strength during immobilization in humans. Methods. Twenty males wore a lower-limb immobilization boot for 28 days and consumed either a PAA supplement (28 g protein) or carbohydrate placebo (28 g maltodextrose), while consuming their normal daily diet. Testing sessions included dietary analysis, lower-leg girth and body composition measurements, strength testing, and gastrocnemius muscle biopsies. Muscle was analyzed for mRNA expression of markers in the ubiquitin and calpain systems, myostatin, TNF-α, and NF-κB. Results. All genes of interest increased over time (P < .05), but there was no difference between groups. Lower-leg girth decreased over time (P = 0.02); however, there were no significant changes in body composition or strength. Conclusion. Short-term lower-limb disuse, despite the absence of significant muscle atrophy, is associated with increases in skeletal muscle gene expression of several proteolysis-related genes. These changes do not appear to be altered by oral PAA supplementation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8b/10/PMC3153915.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3934139", "abstract": "Abstract   The purpose of this experiment was to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of a next-generation sequencing-based method for DNA methylation analysis in porcine embryonic samples. Fourteen discrete genomic regions were amplified by PCR using bisulfite-converted genomic DNA derived from day 14 in vivo-derived (IVV) and parthenogenetic (PA) porcine embryos as template DNA. Resulting PCR products were subjected to high-throughput sequencing using the Illumina Genome Analyzer IIx platform. The average depth of sequencing coverage was 14,611 for IVV and 17,068 for PA. Quantitative analysis of the methylation profiles of both input samples for each genomic locus showed distinct differences in methylation profiles between IVV and PA samples for six of the target loci, and subtle differences in four loci. It was concluded that high throughput sequencing technologies can be effectively applied to provide a powerful, cost-effective approach to targeted DNA methylation analysis of embryonic and other reproductive tissues.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/06/0b/jrd-59-314.PMC3934139.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5056150", "abstract": "Emerging evidence indicates that lysosome function extends beyond macromolecular degradation. Genetic and functional defects in components of the lysosomal transport machinery cause lysosomal storage disorders implicating the lysosomal solute carrier (SLC) transporters as essential to vital cell processes. The pathophysiology and therapeutic potential of lysosomal SLC transporters are highlighted here, focusing on recent discoveries in autophagic amino acid sensing (SLC38A9), phagocytic regulation in macrophages (SLC29A3, SLC15A3/A4), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) exocytosis in neurotransmission (SLC17A9), and lysosomal transport of maytansine catabolites into the cytoplasm (SLC46A3).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/0c/CPT-100-431.PMC5056150.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2990453", "abstract": "The latest high-throughput DNA sequencing technology can now be applied on a large scale to capture the complete set of mRNA transcripts in a cell, using a technique called RNA-seq. Although RNA-seq is only 2 years old, it has rapidly swept through the field of genomics, and it is now being used to analyze the transcriptomes of organisms ranging from bacteria to primates. The depth of sequencing allows researchers to quantify the level of expression of genes, to discover alternative isoforms in eukaryotic species, and even to characterize the operon structure of bacterial genomes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f1/27/biolrep-02-64.PMC2990453.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3227373", "abstract": "Over the past 30 years, policy makers and professionals who provide services to older adults with chronic conditions and impairments have placed greater emphasis on conceptualizing aging in place as an attainable and worthwhile goal. Little is known, however, of the changes in how this concept has evolved in aging research. To track trends in aging in place, we examined scholarly articles published from 1980 to 2010 that included the concept in eleven academic gerontology journals. We report an increase in the absolute number and proportion of aging-in-place manuscripts published during this period, with marked growth in the 2000s. Topics related to the environment and services were the most commonly examined during 2000–2010 (35", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d8/a9/PMC3227373.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5400465", "abstract": "Abstract Patients with C1 nerve root schwannomas usually present with signs relating to nerve root compression. However, asymptomatic presentations have never been reported. A healthy, 37-year-old female was referred in view of a slow-growing lump in the left posterosuperior aspect of the neck. The lump was asymptomatic and neurological examination was normal. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a left C1 nerve root tumour, extending around the C1 vertebra and compressing the thecal sac. The tumour had invaded the basiocciput and was impinging on the left cerebellar hemispheric dura. Stereotactic biopsies of the lesion showed a spindle-cell tumour exhibiting an immunoprofile consistent with a schwannoma. The lesion was surgically excised by blunt dissection using a posterior midline approach. The case report adds to the diverse modes of presentation of C1 nerve root schwannomas, in that such lesions must be included in the differential diagnosis of asymptomatic posterior neck lumps.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a9/25/rjx015.PMC5400465.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3507586", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To examine the longitudinal effects of medication nonadherence (MNA) on key costs and estimate potential savings from increased adherence using a novel methodology that accounts for shared correlation among cost categories. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Veterans with type 2 diabetes (740,195) were followed from January 2002 until death, loss to follow-up, or December 2006. A novel multivariate, generalized, linear, mixed modeling approach was used to assess the differential effect of MNA, defined as medication possession ratio (MPR) ≥0.8 on healthcare costs. A sensitivity analysis was performed to assess potential cost savings at different MNA levels using the Consumer Price Index to adjust estimates to 2012 dollar value. RESULTS Mean MPR for the full sample over 5 years was 0.78, with a mean of 0.93 for the adherent group and 0.58 for the MNA group. In fully adjusted models, all annual cost categories increased ∼3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/58/2533.PMC3507586.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4797589", "abstract": "Objectives: This study used semiology based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to investigate vital energy (Qi) behavior in women with abdominal myofascial pain syndrome (AMPS). Methods: Fifty women diagnosed with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) secondary to AMPS were evaluated by using a questionnaire based on the theories of “yin-yang,” “zang-fu”, and “five elements”. We assessed the following aspects of the illness: symptomatology; specific location of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs); onset, cause, duration and frequency of symptoms; and patient and family history. The patients tongues, lips, skin colors, and tones of speech were examined. Patients were questioned on various aspects related to breathing, sweating, sleep quality, emotions, and preferences related to color, food, flavors, and weather or seasons. Thirst, gastrointestinal dysfunction, excreta (feces and urine), menstrual cycle, the five senses, and characteristic pain symptoms related to headache, musculoskeletal pain, abdomen, and chest were also investigated. Results: Patients were between 22 and 56 years old, and most were married (78", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c0/8e/2093-6966-v18-n04-026.PMC4797589.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4846715", "abstract": "Introduction Recent advances in treatment have led to the prolongation of life among patients with prostate cancer (PCa), which implies greater interest in the issue of the quality of life (QoL) in patients who undergo treatment. The quality of life of patients with cancer questionnaire (QLQ-C30) and the quality of life questionnaire specific to PCa (QLQ-PR25) are tools used worldwide to conduct research on this subject. In our study we assessed the quality of life in a population of Polish patients suffering from prostate cancer. Differences in the quality of life depending on the stage of the disease were highlighted. Material and methods We conducted a prospective, multicenter, observational study using the QLQ-C30 and QLQ-PR25 questionnaires in a group of 1047 patients. Results The highest QoL scores (according to the QLQ-C30 questionnaire) were observed in patients with localized prostate cancer, while the lowest were recorded in the metastatic group. Sexual activity and sexual functioning assessed on the basis of QLQ-PR25 was best in the group of patients suffering from localized prostate cancer, and the worst in patients with locally advanced PCa. Conclusions The assessment of QoL showed a significant correlation with the stage of the disease. Sexual activity and sexual functioning were the best in patients with localized cancer; worst among patients with locally advanced tumor.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/ed/CEJU-69-00633.PMC4846715.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4488247", "abstract": " Purpose. To study factors affecting patients' compliance to antiglaucoma medications in Egypt where there are unique factors as a developing country. Patients and Methods. A cross-sectional descriptive study on 440 Egyptian patients with open angle glaucoma (OAG) recruited for over two years. The patients were thoroughly interviewed about their age, education level, duration of glaucoma, difficulty in instilling the drops, medication regimens, a family history of glaucoma, knowledge of the disease, and the presence of medical insurance. Results. 236 (53.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6a/fa/PMC4488247.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5164914", "abstract": "We establish a link between a connection symmetry, called conformal collineation, and almost Ricci soliton (in particular Ricci soliton) in reducible Ricci symmetric semi-Riemannian manifolds. As a physical application, by investigating the kinematic and dynamic properties of almost Ricci soliton manifolds, we present a physical model of imperfect fluid spacetimes. This model gives a general relation between the physical quantities (u, μ, p, α, η, σ ij) of the matter tensor of the field equations and does not provide any exact solution. Therefore, we propose further study on finding exact solutions of our viscous fluid physical model for which it is required that the fluid velocity vector u be tilted. We also suggest two open problems. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/04/b0/PMC5164914.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5391839", "abstract": "Introduction Pathogenic belief is a central construct within control-mastery theory, which is an integrated dynamic-cognitive-relational approach in psychotherapy. Pathogenic beliefs result from traumatic life experiences and are considered the root of any psychological disorders presented clinically. Nevertheless, how and what type of pathogenic beliefs are attributed to clinical depressive disorder is unknown. The present study aimed to examine this issue. Patients and methods Thirty patients with depressive disorder, who came for psychotherapy at a psychotherapy clinic, were matched based on age and gender with healthy controls who were medical students. The 54-item pathogenic belief scale (PBS) was administered and compared between depressive and control groups using odds ratio (OR). Results The depressed group’s PBS mean score was significantly higher than the healthy controls (t=3.78, P<0.001). Thirteen of 54 items significantly differed between the two groups with ORs ranging from 3.76 to 16.79. The content of pathogenic beliefs centered on the issues of negative sense of self, lack of self-efficacy and control, and relational difficulties related to feelings of fear and humiliation. Influences of culture and gender differences on pathogenic beliefs were discussed. Conclusion Pathogenic beliefs relate to depression such that the higher the number of pathogenic beliefs one has, the more the likelihood of having depression. Since the PBS was developed based on clinical data (rather than theory based), cultural issues as well as age and gender may influence the development of pathogenic beliefs. Further study should be warranted and implications for clinical practice are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8c/d4/ndt-13-1047.PMC5391839.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4345994", "abstract": "Background Sarcopenia, the decrease in muscle mass and function, may lead to various negative health outcomes in elderly. The association among sarcopenia with adiposity and metabolic markers has rarely been studied in the elderly population, with controversial results. The aim of this study is to evaluate this relationship in older subjects. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in 290 elderly patients, focusing on the possible association between muscle mass loss, assessed by relative skeletal muscle mass (RSMM), and an adipo-metabolic profile (AMP) defined by adiposity and metabolic biochemical markers. Measurements of body composition were assessed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Biochemical parameters, such as albumin, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, C-reactive protein, and homocysteine and its related markers (folate and vitamin B12) were measured. Using canonical correlation analysis and structural equation modeling, an individual score of AMP was created and correlated with RSMM. Results The AMP–RSMM correlation was equal to +0.642 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b4/b8/cia-10-499.PMC4345994.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5253700", "abstract": "Introduction Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a rare but life-threatening reaction to drugs such as carbamazepine and allopurinol. The condition is characterized by skin rashes, fever, hematological disturbances, lymphadenopathy, and organ failure, most probably hepatic dysfunction. To date, only a few cases of valproate-induced DRESS syndrome have been reported. Case Presentation We report on the case of a 60-year-old man who had been treated with valproic acid some time before being referred to Kowsar Hospital, Semnan, Iran in December 2015. He was given valproic acid 1000 mg PO, and after 20 days, he had developed widespread rashes, fever, esophagitis, cervical lymphadenopathy, and tender hepatomegaly. Laboratory results at Kowsar showed a drop in hemoglobin, in addition to lymphocytosis, thrombocytopenia, and elevated serum transaminases. DRESS was diagnosed, and corticosteroid therapy was initiated. Administration of the culprit drug to the patient was also stopped. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) improved the general condition of the patient. Conclusions Only a small number of case reports have described valproic acid-induced DRESS syndrome; therefore, the condition is difficult to prevent. Rechallenge with valproic acid should be avoided in patients with a history of reaction to the drug.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4a/af/ircmj-18-09-36825.PMC5253700.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3412662", "abstract": "Miniscrews offer a reliable alternative for anchorage during orthodontic treatment, particularly for non-cooperative patients or periodontal patients with alveolar bone loss. The study aims at assessing the correlation of various clinical indicators with the success or failure of miniscrews used for anchorage during orthodontic treatment. Thirty-four consecutive patients with a cumulative total of 82 miniscrews implanted participated in the study. Generalized Estimating Equations were used to assess the correlation of various factors with success rates. The miniscrew was considered the unit of analysis clustered within site and within patient. The overall success rate of miniscrews was 90.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/42/ee/ijos20121a.PMC3412662.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3508588", "abstract": "The close relationship between increased TLR-2 expression in blood monocytes and insulin resistance in RA patients is shown in this study. Traditional risk factors for metabolic disorders, including the waist circumstance, body mass index (BMI), triglyceride (TG), and ratio of TG to high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, were closely correlated with HOMA (homoeostasis model assessment) index in patients with nondiabetic RA. Expressions of TLR2 in peripheral blood monocytes, following stimulation with peptidoglycan which is known as a TLR2 agonist, were closely correlated with the HOMA index, TNF-α, and IL-6 concentrations. Accordingly, TLR-2 receptor and its related inflammatory cytokines could be potential therapeutic targets in managing insulin resistance in RA patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/88/PMC3508588.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2989748", "abstract": " Objective. To determine the current health status of home based elderly clients receiving government funded aged care packages.  Design. Prospective Observational study.  Setting. Community based, home care program in Australia.  Participants. Community-dwelling older adults receiving aged care packages.  Measurements. A comprehensive test battery of physical, mental and social scales were completed including a Caregiver Strain Index where appropriate.  Results. 37", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/72/PMC2989748.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4060565", "abstract": "The aims of the study were (i) to describe adult fleas distribution in a strictly indoor cat colony composed of cats with flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) and non-FAD cats and (ii) to evaluate the efficacy of spinosad used alone. Skin lesions were scored according to the SCORing Feline Allergic Dermatitis lesion severity scale (SCORFAD) on days 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, and 90. Cats were combed prior to the treatment (days 0, 30, and 60) and on days 15, 45, and 90; collected fleas were replaced on the animals. All cats received flavored spinosad tablets (Comfortis) at a dosage of 50–75 mg/kg on days 0, 30, and 60. Cats were fed immediately afterwards. On day 0, a total of 60 fleas were collected (mean: 4 ± 4). Cats with FAD had a SCORFAD of 6, 8, 12, and 13 and harbored 0, 2, 1, and 0 fleas, respectively. Tablets were taken voluntarily by 8, 11, and 12 cats on days 0, 30, and 60, respectively. No adverse event was recorded. From day 15 to day 90, no fleas could be collected. SCORFAD was reduced by 40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/92/29/PMC4060565.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3420140", "abstract": "We present a subgroup analysis of the first double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised trial with vitamin D3 in MS. In the overall study population, there were 34 patients in the vitamin D arm and 32 patients in the placebo arm. All the patients were using interferon-β-1b (IFNB) therapy. The subgroup consisted of 15 patients in the vitamin D arm and 15 patients in the placebo arm, who had either at least one relapse during the year preceding the study or enhancing T1 lesions at the baseline MRI scan. We measured the total number of MRI T1 enhancing lesions, the number of new/enlarging T2 lesions and T2 lesion volume (BOD) (mm3), EDSS (Expanded Disability Status Scale), annual relapse Rate (ARR), timed 25-foot walk (T25FW), and timed 10-foot tandem walk (TT10W) at baseline and at 12 months in the vitamin D-treated and in the placebo-treated patients. There was a statistically significant reduction in the number of T1 enhancing lesions, a smaller T2 lesion volume growth and less new/enlarging T2 brain MRI lesions in the vitamin D3-treated than in the placebo-treated subgroup patients. The MRI results were slightly more pronounced in the subgroup than in the overall study population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/ae/PMC3420140.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2989382", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tAim. Height is an important determinant of augmentation index (AI) that anticipates cardiovascular prognosis. There is a scanty of the data whether short height predicts survival in patients with end-stage renal diseases, a high risk population. Methods. Fifty two hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetic nephropathy receiving hemodialysis and 52 patients with nondiabetic nephropathy were enrolled. In addition to AI estimated with radial artery tonometry, classical cardiovascular risk factors were considered. Patients were followed for 2 years to assess cardiovascular prognosis. Results. Cox hazards regression revealed that both smoking and shortness in height independently contributed to total mortality and indicated that smoking as well as the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy predicted cardiovascular mortality. Our findings implicated that high AI, the presence of diabetes, and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were significant contributors to cardiovascular events. Conclusions. Our findings provide new evidence that shortness in height independently contributes to total mortality in hemodialysis patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0c/d3/PMC2989382.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3135099", "abstract": "The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is predicted to increase rapidly in the coming decade, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention in patients with AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Recently, remarkable advances have been made in the application of neuroimaging techniques in investigations of AD and MCI. Among the various neuroimaging techniques, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has many potential advantages, noninvasively detecting alterations in brain function that may be present very early in the course of AD and MCI. In this paper, we first review task-related and resting-state fMRI studies on AD and MCI. We then present our recent fMRI studies with additional event-related potential (ERP) experiments during a motion perception task in MCI. Our results indicate that fMRI, especially when combined with ERP recording, can be useful for detecting spatiotemporal functional changes in AD and MCI patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/74/PMC3135099.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4668136", "abstract": "[Purpose] Functional instability leads to a delay in the muscle reaction time and weakness of the peroneal muscles. The present study examined the effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation during balance exercise on patients with functional instability of the ankles, including the ability to land after jumping at the center of foot pressure. [Subjects] The subjects were seven males with a history of ankle sprain. All had a sprained ankle score of ≤80 points on Karlson’s functional instability test. [Methods] They were asked to jump over a 20-cm-high platform sideways for 10 consecutive seconds on a force plate with one leg. The length of the center of pressure was measured for comparison of balance exercise and balance exercise with simultaneous transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. [Results] The length of the center of foot pressure on the sprain side was significantly greater than on the non-sprain side under both conditions. Under the balance exercise with simultaneous transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapy condition, the length of the center of foot pressure on the sprain side was significantly reduced, with the values being 627.0 ± 235.4 and 551.8 ± 171.1 mm before and after the challenge, respectively. [Conclusion] Ankle instability on the sprain side was significantly reduced under the balance exercise with simultaneous transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapy condition before and after the challenge. Peroneal muscles showed increased activity caused by common peroneal innervation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/0b/jpts-27-3069.PMC4668136.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5054146", "abstract": "An overview is presented on the status of studies on multiple codes in genetic sequences. Indirectly, the existence of multiple codes is recognized in the form of several rediscoveries of Second Genetic Code that is different each time. A due credit is given to earlier seminal work related to the codes often neglected in literature. The latest developments in the field of chromatin code are discussed, as well as perspectives of single-base resolution studies of nucleosome positioning, including rotational setting of DNA on the surface of the histone octamers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4b/22/main.PMC5054146.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4052188", "abstract": "The aims of this study were to assess the common bacterial microorganisms causing UTI and their antimicrobial resistance patterns in Bandar Abbas (Southern Iran) during a four-year period. In this retrospective study, samples with a colony count of ≥105 CFU/mL bacteria were considered positive; for these samples, the bacteria were identified, and the profile of antibiotic susceptibility was characterized. From the 19223 samples analyzed, 1513 (7.87", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/24/PMC4052188.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1592592", "abstract": "Background. The aim of this study is to assess the impacts of “Maras powder” and cigarette  smoking on the parameters of the humoral immune system. Material and Methods. One hundred seventy seven subjects were included in the study. The IgA, IgG, IgM, C3 and C4 levels were detected via nephelometric method. Results. In 1.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/10/20/PMC1592592.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3284268", "abstract": "Foot and ankle surgeons are frequently challenged by the devastating systemic consequences of diabetes mellitus manifested through neuropathy, integumentary and joint breakdown, delayed healing, decreased ability to fight infection, and fragile tendon/ligaments. Diabetic neuropathic pedal ulcerations lead to amputations at an alarming rate and also carry a high mortality rate. This article will discuss causes of diabetic pedal ulcerations that persist or recur after tendo-Achilles lengthening and will highlight areas that need to be addressed by the practitioner such as infection, vascular and nutritional status, glucose control, off-loading, biomechanics, and patient compliance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/12/DFA-2-6417.PMC3284268.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4280469", "abstract": "Background Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GAD-ab)-associated cerebellar ataxia is a rare neurological disorder characterized by cerebellar symptoms concomitant with high GAD-ab levels in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Case Report We report on 2 female siblings (aged 74 and 76 years) presenting with gradual progression of rotational vertigo, gait ataxia and vertical diplopia, continuously progressing for 6 months and 6 years, respectively. Autoimmune laboratory examinations showed remarkably increased serum and CSF GAD-ab levels. Their medical histories revealed late-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and other concomitant autoimmune disorders (Grave's disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis). Cerebral MRI and laboratory examinations were unremarkable. The diagnosis of GAD-ab-associated cerebellar ataxia with particular brainstem involvement was established in both women. After the exclusion of an underlying malignancy, immunosuppressive therapy has been initiated in both patients, which resulted in stabilization in one and in clinical improvement in the other patient. Discussion The unique association of autoantibody-mediated cerebellar ataxia and late-onset T1DM in 2 siblings with similar clinical and paraclinical phenotypes strengthens the concept that hereditary factors might play a relevant role also in autoimmune diseases so far considered to be sporadic. Moreover, the occurrence of continuous vertical diplopia broadens the clinical spectrum of GAD-ab-associated neurological syndromes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cf/e3/crn-0006-0264.PMC4280469.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3825487", "abstract": "Vascular factors are thought to contribute to the development of disease pathology in neurodegenerative dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Another entity, called vascular dementia (VaD), comprises a less defined group of dementia patients having various vascular diseases that especially emerge in the elderly population and require valid options for examination and differential diagnosis. In the context of a retrospective study, we analyzed the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers t-tau, p-tau and Aß42 of a total of 131 patients with AD (n = 47), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (n = 22), VaD (n = 44) and stroke (n = 18). We found a remarkable alteration in CSF biomarker profile in AD, VaD and in acute ischemic events. CSF profile in AD patients was altered in a very similar way as in stroke patients, without statistical differences. In stroke, increase depend largely on size and duration after the initial event. Total tau levels were useful to differ between VaD and stroke. Aß42 decreased in a similar way in AD, VaD and stroke and had a trend to lower levels in MCI but not in controls.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/23/a0/PMC3825487.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2804111", "abstract": "One approach to identify epitopes that could be used in the design of vaccines to control several arthropod-borne diseases simultaneously is to look for common structural features in the secretome of the pathogens that cause them. Using a novel bioinformatics technique, cysteine-abundance and distribution analysis, we found that many different proteins secreted by several arthropod-borne pathogens, including Plasmodium falciparum, Borrelia burgdorferi, and eight species of Proteobacteria, are devoid of cysteine residues. The identification of three cysteine-abundance and distribution patterns in several families of proteins secreted by pathogenic and nonpathogenic Proteobacteria, and not found when the amino acid analyzed was tryptophan, provides evidence of forces restricting the content of cysteine residues in microbial proteins during evolution. We discuss these findings in the context of protein structure and function, antigenicity and immunogenicity, and host-parasite relationships.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a6/35/PMC2804111.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4610657", "abstract": "Introduction: Tuberculosis is a single-agent infectious disease, which is the major cause of death around the world. Approximately one third of the world’s population is infected with tuberculosis (TB) bacilli and at risk of developing active TB. The purpose of this study was determined the impact of education based on health belief model in promoting behavior of smear-positive pulmonary TB among patients in Chabahar city, Iran. Material and methods: Of the 80 smear-positive pulmonary TB who referred to health centers in Chabahar voluntarily participated in this interventional study. The data collected using questionnaire based on health belief model. The data were analyzed by using paired t-test, independent t-test, pearson correlation and chi-square test with SPSS 16. Results: The cognitive skills were increased significantly from 6.10 to 6.88 after intervention. All behavioral skills were increased significantly from 2.08 to 2.88 after implementing the intervention. Perceived severity was increased from11.08to12.19 significantly. Percepted benefits were enhanced significantly from 11.48 to 12.23. Mean percepted barrier was decreased significantly from 17.52 to 16.68. Conclusion: Findings demonstrated that implementing educational intervention programs can increase the level of knowledge and behavior of patients regarding smear- positive pulmonary TB initiatives.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b6/0f/MSM-27-229.PMC4610657.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4998998", "abstract": "Background Although the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/VEGF receptor (VEGFR) system has become a prime target for antiangiogenic treatment, its biological role in glioblastoma beyond angiogenesis has remained controversial. Methods Using neutralizing antibodies to VEGF or placental growth factor (PlGF) or the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, cediranib, or lentiviral gene silencing, we delineated autocrine signaling in glioma cell lines. The in vivo effects of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 depletion were evaluated in orthotopic glioma xenograft models. Results VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 modulated glioma cell clonogenicity, viability, and invasiveness in vitro in an autocrine, cell–line-specific manner. VEGFR1 silencing promoted mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) signaling, whereas VEGFR2 silencing resulted in cell-type dependent activation of the protein kinase B (PKB)/AKT and MAPK/ERK pathways. These responses may represent specific escape mechanisms from VEGFR inhibition. The survival of orthotopic glioma-bearing mice was prolonged upon VEGFR1 silencing in the LNT-229, LN-308, and U87MG models and upon VEGFR2 silencing in LN-308 and U87MG. Disruption of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 signaling was associated with decreased tumor size, increased tumor necrosis, or loss of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) immunoreactivity. Neutralizing VEGF and PlGF by specific antibodies was superior to either antibody treatment alone in the VEGFR1-dependent LNT-229 model. Conclusions Differential dependence on autocrine signaling through VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 suggests a need for biomarker–stratified VEGF(R)-based therapeutic approaches to glioblastoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/c6/now043.PMC4998998.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3492968", "abstract": "Pulmonary metastasectomy is indicated for selected patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. A 43-year-old woman presented with solitary pulmonary metastasis from descending colon cancer and pulmonary metastasectomy was performed because of absence of any other active metastasis as well as normal serum carcinoembryonic antigen value. However, she died due to early development of nodal and bone metastases within 6 months after thoracotomy. The presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the peripheral blood (6 CTCs/7.5 ml) was the only factor to predict such a poor prognosis, suggesting that the CTC test is useful in selecting patients for pulmonary metastasectomy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/0f/cro-0005-0542.PMC3492968.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2654790", "abstract": "Modafinil, a wakefulness-promoting agent unrelated to classical sympathomimetic stimulants, has been studied in a total of 933 children and adolescents as a treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Several studies, including three double-blind, placebo-controlled studies with intent-to-treat analyses, have demonstrated the efficacy of modafinil film-coated tablets in reducing symptoms of ADHD and associated problem behaviors in children and adolescents. Modafinil is generally well tolerated, with adverse events (such as insomnia, headache, loss of appetite, weight loss, and gastrointestinal discomfort) that are generally mild to moderate, rarely leading to medication discontinuation. To minimize treatment-emergent side effects, titration to the target dose of 355–425 mg once a day should take place over 2–3 weeks. Due to reports of skin rash (including one case of possible erythema multiforme/Stevens Johnson Syndrome during pivotal studies), additional studies have been requested to better evaluate the risks of developing severe cutaneous adverse reactions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3a/ef/PMC2654790.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4573201", "abstract": "Background Cervical dystonia (CD) can be effectively managed by a combination of botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) and conventional therapy (skeletal muscle relaxants and rehabilitative therapy), but the costs of different interventions in the UK vary. Methods A budget impact model was developed from the UK payer perspective with a 5-year time horizon to evaluate the effects of changing market shares of abobotulinumtoxinA, onabotulinumtoxinA, and incobotulinumtoxinA, and best supportive care from the UK payer perspective. Epidemiological and resource use data were retrieved from the published literature and clinical expert opinion. Deterministic sensitivity analyses were performed to determine the parameters most influential on the budgetary findings under base case assumptions. Results Under base case assumptions, an increased uptake of abobotulinumtoxinA showed an accumulated savings of £2,250,992 by year 5. Treatment per patient per year with onabotulinumtoxinA and incobotulinumtoxinA costs more when compared to treatment with abobotulinumtoxinA. One-way sensitivity analyses showed that the prevalence of CD, dose per injection of each of the BoNT-As, and time to reinjection of incobotulinumtoxinA and abobotulinumtoxinA influenced the base case findings most. Conclusion There is potential for cost savings associated with the greater use of abobotulinumtoxinA rather than other BoNT-A treatments, permitting more patients to benefit more from effective BoNT-A treatment with a fixed budget.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/29/ceor-7-441.PMC4573201.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4323439", "abstract": "We present the case of a woman on whom a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) was performed through the sinus tract of a previous surgical gastrostomy for supraglottic obstructing malignancy. Five years after the induction of the surgical gastrostomy, she experienced a peristomal leakage, leading to severe necrotizing fasciitis, with skin irritation and inflammation. Despite extensive treatment to heal the abdominal wall close to the feeding tube, it recurred 3 months later, without any obvious cause. It was thus decided to perform a new gastrostomy in a nearby normal skin area, but, since it was totally impossible for the endoscope to be passed by mouth, due to obstruction, the sinus tract of the gastrostomy was used to facilitate endoscope insertion into the stomach for a new PEG.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/38/ce-48-78.PMC4323439.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2865018", "abstract": "The clinical outcome of patients with ischemic heart disease can be significantly improved with the implementation of targeted drug delivery into the ischemic myocardium. In this paper, we present our original findings relevant to the problem of therapeutic heart targeting with use of nanoparticles. Experimental approaches included fabrication of carbon and silica nanoparticles, their characterization and surface modification. The acute hemodynamic effects of nanoparticle formulation as well as nanoparticle biodistribution were studied in male Wistar rats. Carbon and silica nanoparticles are nontoxic materials that can be used as carriers for heart-targeted drug delivery. Concepts of passive and active targeting can be applied to the development of targeted drug delivery to the ischemic myocardial cells. Provided that ischemic heart-targeted drug delivery can be proved to be safe and efficient, the results of this research may contribute to the development of new technologies in the pharmaceutical industry.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/30/8d/PMC2865018.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3791802", "abstract": "Pulmonary infections frequently occur following hip fracture surgery in aged patients. However, the underlying reasons are not fully understood. The present study investigates the systemic inflammatory response and pulmonary conditions following hip fracture surgery as a means of identifying risk factors for lung infections using an aged rodent model. Aged, male Sprague-Dawley rats (8 animals per group) underwent a sham procedure or hip fracture plus femoral intramedullary pinning. Animals were sacrificed 1, 3, and 7 days after the injury. Markers of systemic inflammation and pulmonary injury were analyzed. Both sham-operated and injured/surgical group animals underwent intratracheal inoculation with Pseudomonas aeruginosa 1, 3, and 7 days after surgery. P. aeruginosa counts in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and survival rates were recorded. Serum TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-10 levels and markers of pulmonary injury were significantly increased at 1 and 3 days following hip fracture and surgery. Animals challenged with P. aeruginosa at 1 and 3 days after injury had a significantly decreased survival rate and more P. aeruginosa recovered from blood and BAL fluid. This study shows that hip fracture and surgery in aged rats induced a systemic inflammatory response and lung injury associated with increased susceptibility to infection during the acute phase after injury and surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/49/30/PMC3791802.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4150537", "abstract": " Background. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) are fatal, noncurable, but treatable diseases that strongly affect the patients. Objective. To describe patients' experience of information relating to PAH or CTEPH. Methods. A qualitative method using content analysis was applied. Seventeen patients (thirteen women and four men) aged 28–73 years from a regional PAH centre were individually interviewed. Results. Three categories that describe patients' experiences of information emerged: handling of information, struggling with feelings that also affect others, and vulnerability associated with uncertainty. The patients would have welcomed more information to relatives from the healthcare professionals. Shortcomings on communicating a prognosis were experienced. The mediated information and knowledge gave the patients insight into physical or psychosocial problems. Mutual exchange of information between patients and healthcare professionals were marred by different experiences of attitudes, behaviour, and ownership. Conclusions. In the future, healthcare organizations must struggle to achieve a holistic healthcare by making it more person-centred, and they must also promote cooperation between PAH centres and local healthcare providers. It is essential to determine the most appropriate and valuable path of information and communication and, thereby, the most cost-effective management of PAH or CTEPH.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a0/58/PMC4150537.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5179485", "abstract": "PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to evaluate the stability of interface between Co-Cr-Mo (CCM) UCLA abutment and external hex implant. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixteen external hex implant fixtures were assigned to two groups (CCM and Gold group) and were embedded in molds using clear acrylic resin. Screw-retained prostheses were constructed using CCM UCLA abutment and Gold UCLA abutment. The external implant fixture and screw-retained prostheses were connected using abutment screws. After the abutments were tightened to 30 Ncm torque, 5 kg thermocyclic functional loading was applied by chewing simulator. A target of 1.0 × 106 cycles was applied. After cyclic loading, removal torque values were recorded using a driving torque tester, and the interface between implant fixture and abutment was evaluated by scanning electronic microscope (SEM). The means and standard deviations (SD) between the CCM and Gold groups were analyzed with independent t-test at the significance level of 0.05. RESULTS Fractures of crowns, abutments, abutment screws, and fixtures and loosening of abutment screws were not observed after thermocyclic loading. There were no statistically significant differences at the recorded removal torque values between CCM and Gold groups (P>.05). SEM analysis revealed that remarkable wear patterns were observed at the abutment interface only for Gold UCLA abutments. Those patterns were not observed for other specimens. CONCLUSION Within the limit of this study, CCM UCLA abutment has no statistically significant difference in the stability of interface with external hex implant, compared with Gold UCLA abutment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/30/jap-8-465.PMC5179485.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5220212", "abstract": "Neuromuscular junction disorders affect the pre- or postsynaptic nerve to muscle transmission due to autoimmune antibodies. Members of the group like myasthenia gravis and Lambert-Eaton syndrome have pathophysiologically distinct characteristics. However, in practice, distinction may be difficult. We present a series of three patients with a myasthenic syndrome, dropped-head syndrome, bulbar and respiratory muscle weakness and positive testing for anti-N-type voltage-gated calcium channel antibodies. In two cases anti-acetylcholin receptor antibodies were elevated, anti-P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channel antibodies were negative. All patients initially responded to pyridostigmine with a non-response in the course of the disease. While one patient recovered well after treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins, 3,4-diaminopyridine, steroids and later on immunosuppression with mycophenolate mofetil, a second died after restriction of treatment due to unfavorable cancer diagnosis, the third patient declined treatment. Although new antibodies causing neuromuscular disorders were discovered, clinical distinction has not yet been made. Our patients showed features of pre- and postsynaptic myasthenic syndrome as well as severe dropped-head syndrome and bulbar and axial muscle weakness, but only anti-N-type voltage-gated calcium channel antibodies were positive. When administered, one patient benefited from 3,4-diaminopyridine. We suggest that this overlap-syndrome should be considered especially in patients with assumed seronegative myasthenia gravis and lack of improvement under standard therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/1c/ejtm-2016-4-5962.PMC5220212.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5236105", "abstract": "Background: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of the Nosema ceranae and Nosema apis among apiaries using both spore counts and multiplex PCR and the replacement of N. apis by N. ceranae in some regions of Turkey. Methods: A hundred honey bee samples were collected from 99 apiaries in 11 different locations in 2011–2012 in Turkey. Nosema infection degree from collected samples was determined using light microscope and molecular detection of Nosema spp. (N. ceranae and N. apis) was performed using specific primers by multiplex PCR. Results: N. ceranae was only found spores in sampling areas using molecular diagnosis. N. apis was not detected in whole sampling areas using both techniques. There are no Nosema spores detected in Konya one location using two techniques. The nucleotide sequences from amplification products of the Nosema infested honeybee samples were (98", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/64/69/PMC5236105.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3064866", "abstract": "Most individuals prefer bicycling separated from motor traffic. However, cycle tracks (physically separated bicycle-exclusive paths along roads, as found in The Netherlands) are discouraged in the USA by engineering guidance that suggests that facilities such as cycle tracks are more dangerous than the street. The objective of this study conducted in Montreal (with a longstanding network of cycle tracks) was to compare bicyclist injury rates on cycle tracks versus in the street. For six cycle tracks and comparable reference streets, vehicle/bicycle crashes and health record injury counts were obtained and use counts conducted. The relative risk (RR) of injury on cycle tracks, compared with reference streets, was determined. Overall, 2.5 times as many cyclists rode on cycle tracks compared with reference streets and there were 8.5 injuries and 10.5 crashes per million bicycle-kilometres. The RR of injury on cycle tracks was 0.72 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/cb/injuryprev28696.PMC3064866.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2689438", "abstract": "The protein kinase inhibitor imatinib, also known as Gleevec, has been a notable success in treating chronic myelogenous leukemia. A recent paper in BMC Structural Biology reports a 1.75 Å crystal structure of imatinib bound to the oxidoreductase NQO2 and reveals insights into the binding specificity and the off-target effects of the inhibitor.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/d4/PMC2689438.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3403492", "abstract": "Down syndrome is a complex disease that has challenged molecular and cellular research for more than 50 years. Understanding the molecular bases of morphological, cellular, and functional alterations resulting from the presence of an additional complete chromosome 21 would aid in targeting specific genes and pathways for rescuing some phenotypes. Recently, progress has been made by characterization of brain alterations in mouse models of Down syndrome. This review will highlight the main molecular and cellular findings recently described for these models, particularly with respect to their relationship to Down syndrome phenotypes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/39/66/PMC3403492.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5313429", "abstract": "Although pneumothorax has been reported to be a major pulmonary adverse event in patients treated with pazopanib, a multikinase inhibitor, drug-induced interstitial lung disease (DILD) has not been reported. A 74-year-old Japanese man who received pazopanib for the treatment of femoral leiomyosarcoma and lung metastasis presented with dyspnea and fatigue. He had mild interstitial pneumonia when pazopanib treatment was initiated. Chest computed tomography revealed progressive bilateral ground-glass opacity (GGO) and traction bronchiectasis. We diagnosed DILD due to pazopanib. The patient's pazopanib treatment was interrupted and a steroid was administered. The symptoms and GGO were improved with treatment. Physicians should be aware of DILD due to pazopanib in patients with pre-existing interstitial lung disease. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/51/1349-7235-56-0079.PMC5313429.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4158149", "abstract": "Hearing loss leads to impaired social functioning and quality of life. Hearing loss is also associated with sleeping disorders and cardiometabolic risk factors. Here, we determined whether subclinical hearing loss is associated with sleep duration and cardiometabolic risk factors in a cross-sectional and longitudinal study of healthy Japanese general population. 48,091 men and women aged 20–79 years who underwent medical checkups were included in a cross-sectional study, and 6,674 were included in an 8-year longitudinal study. The prevalence of audiometrically determined hearing loss (>25 dB) at 4000 and 1000 Hz increased significantly with increasing sleep duration in any age strata. Logistic regression analysis showed that compared with reference sleep duration (6 h) longer sleep duration (≥8 h) was significantly associated with hearing loss, even after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Simultaneously, hearing loss was significantly associated with male sex, diabetes, and no habitual exercise. In the longitudinal study, the risk of longer sleep duration (≥8 h) after 8 years was significantly greater in subjects with hearing loss at 4000 Hz at baseline. In conclusion, current results suggest a potential association of subclinical hearing loss with longer sleep duration and cardiometabolic risk factors in a Japanese general population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f2/ea/PMC4158149.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3216374", "abstract": "Some selective estrogen receptor modulators, such as raloxifene and tamoxifen, are neuroprotective and reduce brain inflammation in several experimental models of neurodegeneration. In addition, raloxifene and tamoxifen counteract cognitive deficits caused by gonadal hormone deprivation in male rats. In this study, we have explored whether raloxifene and tamoxifen may regulate the number and geometry of dendritic spines in CA1 pyramidal neurons of the rat hippocampus. Young adult male rats were injected with raloxifene (1 mg/kg), tamoxifen (1 mg/kg), or vehicle and killed 24 h after the injection. Animals treated with raloxifene or tamoxifen showed an increased numerical density of dendritic spines in CA1 pyramidal neurons compared to animals treated with vehicle. Raloxifene and tamoxifen had also specific effects in the morphology of spines. These findings suggest that raloxifene and tamoxifen may influence the processing of information by hippocampal pyramidal neurons by affecting the number and shape of dendritic spines.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ca/f8/PMC3216374.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3790037", "abstract": "Although fentanyl-induced cough is generally transient and benign, it can give rise to serious problems in patients to whom increasing intracranial, intraocular or intraabdominal pressures may create dangerous situations. This case demonstrates aspiration pneumonia as a complication, exhibiting severe cough induced by intravenous injection of fentanyl.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/29/kjae-65-251.PMC3790037.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2211836", "abstract": "In placental mammals, viviparity—the production of living young within the mother's body—evolved under the auspices of the immune system. Elements of immunity were incorporated, giving pregnancy a mildly inflammatory character. Formation of the placenta, the organ that feeds the fetus, involves a cooperation between maternal natural killer (NK) cells and fetal trophoblast cells that remodels the blood supply. Recent research reveals that this process and human reproductive success are influenced by polymorphic HLA-C ligands and their killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f1/98/20041783.PMC2211836.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4864583", "abstract": "Some adult odonates resist parasitism by larval water mites (Arrenurus spp.) with melanotic encapsulation, in which the mite’s stylestome is clogged and the mite starves. In summer 2014, we counted the engorged and resisted mites on 2,729 adult odonates sampled by aerial net at 11 water bodies in Greenville Co. and Pickens Co., SC, and tested the hypothesis that the frequency and intensity of resistance correlates with parasite prevalence (the percentage of parasitized hosts). Resistance prevalence (the percentage of parasitized hosts that resisted at least one mite) varied significantly among host species, exceeding 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/5a/iew022.PMC4864583.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3661973", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to assess changes between primary classification of esophageal motility disease and follow-up classification by high resolution manometry (HRM) and to determine whether previously classified diseases could be recategorized according to the updated Chicago Classification published in 2011. We reviewed individual medical records and HRM findings twice for each of 13 subjects. We analyzed primary and follow-up HRM findings based on the original Chicago Classification. We then reclassified the same HRM findings according to the updated Chicago Classification. This case series revealed the variable course of esophageal motility disorders; some patients experienced improvement, whereas others experienced worsening symptoms. Four cases were reclassified from variant achalasia to peristaltic abnormality, one case from diffuse esophageal spasm to type II achalasia and one case from peristaltic abnormality to variant achalasia. Four unclassified findings were recategorized as variant achalasia. In conclusion, esophageal motility disorders are variable and may not be best conceptualized as an independent group. Original classifications can be recategorized according to the updated Chicago Classification system. More research is needed on this topic.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/04/a9/gnl-7-377.PMC3661973.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3481984", "abstract": "Objective The displacement of the hyoid bone (HB) is a critical biomechanical component of the swallowing function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the swallowing-induced vertical and horizontal displacements of the HB in subjects with 2 different magnitudes of skeletal Class III malocclusion, by means of real-time, balanced turbo-field-echo (B-TFE) cine-magnetic resonance imaging. Methods The study population comprised 19 patients with mild skeletal Class III malocclusion, 16 with severe skeletal Class III malocclusion, and 20 with a skeletal Class I relationship. Before the commencement of the study, all subjects underwent cephalometric analysis to identify the nature of skeletal malformations. B-TFE images were obtained for the 4 consecutive stages of deglutition as each patient swallowed 10 mL of water, and the vertical and horizontal displacements of the HB were measured at each stage. Results At all stages of swallowing, the vertical position of the HB in the severe Class III malocclusion group was significantly lower than those in the mild Class III and Class I malocclusion groups. Similarly, the horizontal displacement of the HB was found to be significantly associated with the severity of malocclusion, i.e., the degree of Class III malocclusion, while the amount of anterior displacement of the HB decreased with an increase in the severity of the Class III deformity. Conclusions Our findings indicate the existence of a relationship between the magnitude of Class III malocclusion and HB displacement during swallowing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/c8/kjod-42-190.PMC3481984.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4981233", "abstract": "Aorto-ventricular tunnel is a rare congenital malformation, and aorto-right ventricular tunnel (ARVT) is an even less common entity. Here, we report the case of a 3-month-old female who underwent successful surgical closure of ARVT. The origin of the right coronary artery was proximal to the ostium of the tunnel.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/6a/kjtcvs-49-295.PMC4981233.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2592725", "abstract": "Sepsis with myocardial dysfunction is seen commonly. Beta-blockers have been used successfully to treat chronic heart failure based on the premise that chronically elevated adrenergic drive is detrimental to the myocardium. However, recent reports on the acute use of beta-blockers in situations with potential hemodynamic compromise have shown the risks associated with this approach. In critical situations, the main effect of adrenergic activation is to support cardiovascular function. Caution should be exercised in designing studies to assess beta-blockers in septic patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/4a/PMC2592725.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2869532", "abstract": "Background. Existing self-report measures of mobility ignore important contextual features of movement and require respondents to make complex judgments about specific tasks. Thus, we describe the development and validation of a short form (sf) video-animated tool for assessing mobility, the Mobility Assessment Tool—MAT-sf. Methods. This study involves cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses examining the measurement properties of the MAT-sf. The MAT-sf consists of 10 animated video clips that assess respondents’ level of proficiency in performing each task. The main outcome measures used for validation included the Pepper Assessment Tool for Disability (PAT-D), the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), and 400-m walk test. Results. Participants (n = 234), 166 women and 68 men, had an average age of 81.9 years and a variety of comorbidities with 65.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ca/5f/glq055.PMC2869532.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4602420", "abstract": "Abstract Prominent T-wave inversions are well recognized electrocardiographic signs that can occur in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, the giant negative T waves may be associated with myocardial stunning without AMI. This case report describes 2 patients without AMI who developed rare giant T-wave inversions measuring up to 35 mm in depth and QT prolongation after admission to hospital. While 1 patient presented with acute pulmonary edema, the other patient presented with severe chest pain at rest and transient ST elevation. The giant T-wave inversion with QT prolongation may be caused by myocardial stunning due to the triple vessel diseases and elevated wall stress, high-end diastolic pressure and decreased coronary arterial flow during pulmonary edema in the first patient. The giant T-wave inversion with QT prolongation in the second patient may be caused by myocardial stunning due to the left anterior descending artery spasm (transient ST elevation) leading to transient total occlusion of left anterior descending artery. Percutaneous coronary intervention was successfully undergone for both patients. The patients remained well. The electrophysiologic mechanism responsible for giant T-wave inversion with QT prolongation is presently unknown. The two cases demonstrate that the rare giant negative T waves may be associated with myocardial stunning without AMI.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/21/medi-93-e39.PMC4602420.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2517975", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Monitoring and modifying physicians’ prescribing behavior through prescription tracking is integral to pharmaceutical marketing. Health information organizations (HIOs) combine prescription information purchased from pharmacies with anonymized patient medical records purchased from health insurance companies to determine which drugs individual physicians prefer for specific diagnoses and patient populations. This information is used to tailor marketing strategies to individual physicians and to assess the effect of promotions on prescribing behavior. DISCUSSION The American Medical Association (AMA) created the Prescription Data Restriction Plan in an attempt to address both the privacy concerns of physicians and industry concerns that legislation could compromise the availability of prescribing data. However, the PDRP only prohibits sales representatives and their immediate supervisors from accessing the most detailed reports. Less than 2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/69/ed/PMC2517975.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4044993", "abstract": "The purpose of this review is to present the most recent findings in bone tissue engineering. Special attention is given to multifunctional materials based on collagen and collagen–hydroxyapatite composites used for skin and bone cancer treatments. The multi-functionality of these materials was obtained by adding to the base regenerative grafts proper components, such as ferrites (magnetite being the most important representative), cytostatics (cisplatin, carboplatin, vincristine, methotrexate, paclitaxel, doxorubicin), silver nanoparticles, antibiotics (anthracyclines, geldanamycin), and/or analgesics (ibuprofen, fentanyl). The suitability of complex systems for the intended applications was systematically analyzed. The developmental possibilities of multifunctional materials with regenerative and curative roles (antitumoral as well as pain management) in the field of skin and bone cancer treatment are discussed. It is worth mentioning that better materials are likely to be developed by combining conventional and unconventional experimental strategies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6d/2c/ijn-9-2713.PMC4044993.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3805163", "abstract": "A 64-year-old female was diagnosed with systemic amyloidosis associated with multiple myeloma. Bortezomib and dexamethasone-therapy was initiated; however, she developed lethal ventricular fibrillation (VF) and cardiac arrest after 84 hours of therapy. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation using direct current shocks with epinephrine and amiodarone was initiated but failed to receive cardiac function. Although her arterial pulsations recovered immediately after the injection of vasopressin, she died of heart failure 8 hours after the onset of VF. Cardiac amyloidosis was verified by autopsy. Although the direct association of bortezomib with lethal VF remained to be clarified in our patient, the current report emphasizes on bortezomib as a substantial risk factor for cardiomyocyte damage. The potential risk of lethal events associated with cardiac amyloidosis should be carefully considered during bortezomib treatment for patients with AL amyloidosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/81/a7/hr-2013-3-e12.PMC3805163.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4639533", "abstract": "Pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1 (PHA1) is a disease characterized by neonatal salt loss due to aldosterone resistance. Two types of PHA1 are known: an autosomal recessive systemic form and an autosomal dominant renal form. The cause of the renal form of PHA1 is heterozygous mutations in NR3C2, which encodes the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). We encountered two female Japanese infants with the renal form of PHA1 and analyzed NR3C2. The two patients had poor weight gain, and one was developmentally delayed. Genetic analysis identified one novel mutation (c.492_493insTT, p.Met166LeufsX8) and one previously reported mutation (p.R861X). The two produced a premature stop codon, resulting in haploinsufficiency of the MR. In conclusion, genetic analysis of NR3C2 is useful for diagnosis and planning therapeutic strategies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d1/c2/cpe-24-135.PMC4639533.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3658706", "abstract": "Changes in diet can also have dramatic effects on the composition of gut microbiota. Commensal bacteria of the gastrointestinal tract are critical regulators of health and disease by protecting against pathogen encounter whilst also maintaining immune tolerance to certain allergens. Moreover, consumption of fibre and vegetables typical of a non-Western diet generates substantial quantities of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) which have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Dietary interventions such as probiotic supplementation have been investigated for their pleiotropic effects on microbiota composition and immune function. Probiotics may restore intestinal dysbiosis and improve clinical disease through elevated SCFA levels in the intestine. Although the precise mechanisms by which such dietary factors mediate these effects, SCFA metabolites such as butyrate also function as histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), that can act on the epigenome through chromatin remodeling changes. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of HDAC enzymes and to discuss the biological effects of HDACi. Further, we discuss the important relationship between diet and the balance between health and disease and how novel dietary interventions such as probiotics could be alternative approach for the prevention and/or treatment of chronic inflammatory disease through modulation of the intestinal microbiome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/95/9b/PMC3658706.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3870869", "abstract": " Aim. Laparoscopic-assisted single-port appendectomy (SPA), although combining the advantages of open and conventional laparoscopic surgery, is still not widely used in childhood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and the cost effectiveness of SPA in children. Methods. After institutional review board approval, we retrospectively evaluated 262 children who underwent SPA. The appendix was dissected outside the abdominal cavity as in open surgery. For stump closure, we used two 3/0 vicryl RB-1 sutures. Results. We identified 146 boys (55.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bd/05/PMC3870869.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3533451", "abstract": " Background. Corneal blindness from healed infected keratitis is one of the most preventable causes of monocular blindness in developing countries, including Malaysia. Our objectives were to identify the causative fungi, predisposing risk factors, the proportion of correct clinical diagnosis, and visual outcome of patients treated in our hospital. Methods. A retrospective review of medical and microbiology records was conducted for all patients who were treated for fungal keratitis at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia from January 2007 until December 2011. Results. Forty-seven patients (47/186, 25.27", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/d9/PMC3533451.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5240757", "abstract": "The expressions of Toll-like receptor (TLR) -2, -4 and -9 were immunohistochemically investigated in the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE), and epithelia of the follicle-associated intestinal villus (FAIV) and ordinary intestinal villus (IV) in rat Peyer’s patch regions with no bacterial colonies on the mucous membranes. TLR-2 was expressed in the striated borders of microvillous columnar epithelial cells (MV) in both FAIV and IV except in the apices. However, TLR-2 expression in the striated borders was weaker in the epithelium of the follicular side of FAIV (f-FAIV) than in epithelia of IV and the anti-follicular side of FAIV. TLR-4 and -9 were not expressed in the FAIV and IV. In the FAE, TLR-2, -4 and -9 were not expressed in the striated borders of MV, but the roofs of some typical M-cells were immunopositive for all TLRs. Especially, no TLR-positive MV were found at the FAE sites where M-cells appeared most frequently. In the follicle-associated intestinal crypt (FAIC), immunopositivity for all TLRs was observed in the striated borders of MV and the luminal substances. In conclusion, the lower levels of TLR-2 in both FAE and the epithelium of f-FAIV probably reduce recognition of indigenous bacteria. TLR-2, -4 and -9 appear not to participate directly in differentiation of MV into M-cells, because TLRs were not expressed in any MV in the upstream region of M-cells in FAE with no settlement of indigenous bacteria in the rat Peyer’s patches.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/b7/jvms-77-1797.PMC5240757.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4452487", "abstract": " Purpose. The object of this study was to investigate the role of the suture stent regarding its impact on reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) in canaloplasty based on the distension of the inner wall of Schlemm's canal. Methods. Nineteen glaucoma patients who underwent canaloplasty with successful positioning of the tensioning suture were included. The measurements were analyzed using linear mixed models, with the means adjusted to IOP, age, cup-to-disc ratio, and time of follow-up. Results. Mean follow-up time was 27.6 months (SD 10.5). Mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was 24.6 mmHg (SD 5.29), 13.8 (SD 2.65), and 14.5 (SD 0.71) before surgery, at 12 months, and at 36 months after surgery, respectively. 57.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/85/94/PMC4452487.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4616099", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study was performed to assess the effect of daily sitting time during media consumption on physical fitness, total energy expenditure (TEE), and body composition indices of Saudi school children. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 180 healthy Saudi school students (8–18 years) were included in this study. Sitting time, total energy expenditure, and levels of physical activity were evaluated with pre-validated internet based questionnaires. Body composition indices were evaluated using anthropometric analysis. [Results] Out of the studied participants, only 22.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/ea/jpts-27-2807.PMC4616099.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2807062", "abstract": "Purpose The effect of whole patient health coaching on the hospitalization rate was examined in a prospective control study. Methods The Likelihood of Hospitalization (LOH) prediction model was used to select patients at high risk of hospitalization. Six chronic conditions were identified as criteria for inclusion in the program. Selected patients were randomized and allocated to a study group or control group. An assessment interview was held on the phone at the outset of the Telecoaching program to assess patients' current healthcare situation. Patients were subsequently contacted by phone with a view to effecting an improvement in health in the short-term and thus preventing stays in hospital, e.g. via appointments with specialists, provision of a nurse, training on correct medication intake and regular self-control. Each patient was supervised for six months. Results The LOH model was used to select a total of 9176 patients. One thousand and eighty of these were allocated to a control group. Eighteen months later, the hospitalization rate for the six chronic indications was 25.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/41/f8/PMC2807062.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4957603", "abstract": "Cardiovascular (CV) risk may remain despite statin treatment, and there is a need to address this risk with add-on therapy. The lipid effects of two different prescription omega-3 fatty acid therapies are described in a 55-year-old statin- and niacin-treated female with severe dyslipidemia and high CV risk. The patient was initially treated with omega-3-acid ethyl esters (eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] and docosahexaenoic acid) 4 g/day. Due to persistently elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), she was switched to icosapent ethyl (high-purity EPA ethyl ester) 4 g/day. Approximately 28 months after switching to icosapent ethyl, her LDL-C decreased by 69", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/65/ae/PMC4957603.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3963119", "abstract": "Sclerosing RMS (SRMS) is a recently described subtype of RMS that has not yet been included in any of the classification systems for RMSs. We did pubmed search using keywords “sclerosing, and rhabdomyosarcomas” and included all pediatric cases (age ≤ 18 years) of SRMSs in this review. We also included our case of an eleven-year-old male child with skull base SRMS and discuss the clinical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and genetic characteristics of these patients. Till now, only 20 pediatric cases of SRMSs have been described in the literature. Pediatric SRMS more commonly affects males at a mean age of 9 years. Extremeties and head/neck regions were most commonly affected. Follow-up details were available for 16 patients with mean follow-up of 25.3 months. Treatment failure rate was 43.75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/7c/PMC3963119.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3393824", "abstract": "Health maintenance organization (HMO) administrative databases have been used as sampling frames for ascertaining nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). However, because of the lack of tumor registry information on these cancers, these ascertainment methods have not been previously validated. NMSC cases arising from patients served by a staff model medical group and diagnosed between 1/1/07 to 12/31/08 were identified from claims data using three ascertainment strategies. These claims-data cases were then compared to NMSC identified using natural language processing (NLP) of electronic pathology reports (EPR), and sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) calculated. Comparison of claims data ascertained cases to the NLP demonstrated sensitivities ranging from 48-65", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/21/a9/PMC3393824.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5164901", "abstract": "Midkine (MK) is a cytokine that modulates amphetamine-induced striatal astrogliosis, suggesting a possible role of MK in neuroinflammation induced by amphetamine. To test this hypothesis, we studied astrogliosis and microglial response induced by amphetamine (10 mg/kg i.p. four times, every 2 h) in different brain areas of MK−/− mice and wild type (WT) mice. We found that amphetamine-induced microgliosis and astrocytosis are enhanced in the striatum of MK−/− mice in a region-specific manner. Surprisingly, LPS-induced astrogliosis in the striatum was blocked in MK−/− mice. Since striatal neuroinflammation induced by amphetamine-type stimulants correlates with the cognitive deficits induced by these drugs, we also tested the long-term effects of periadolescent amphetamine treatment (3 mg/kg i.p. daily for 10 days) in a memory task in MK−/− and WT mice. Significant deficits in the Y-maze test were only observed in amphetamine-pretreated MK−/− mice. The data demonstrate for the first time that MK is a novel modulator of neuroinflammation depending on the inflammatory stimulus and the brain area considered. The data indicate that MK limits amphetamine-induced striatal neuroinflammation. In addition, our data demonstrate that periadolescent amphetamine treatment in mice results in transient disruption of learning and memory processes in absence of endogenous MK.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fd/45/PMC5164901.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3003996", "abstract": " Listeria monocytogenes is an opportunistic foodborne pathogen causing listeriosis, an often fatal infection leading to meningitis, sepsis, or infection of the fetus and abortion in susceptible individuals. It was recently found that the bacterium can also cause acute, self-limiting febrile gastroenteritis in healthy individuals. In the intestinal tract, L. monocytogenes penetrates the mucosa directly via enterocytes, or indirectly via invasion of Peyer's patches. Animal models for L. monocytogenes infection have provided many insights into the mechanisms of pathogenesis, and the development of new model systems has allowed the investigation of factors that influence adaptation to the gastrointestinal environment as well as adhesion to and invasion of the intestinal mucosa. The mucosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal tract are permanently exposed to an enormous antigenic load derived from the gastrointestinal microbiota present in the human bowel. The integrity of the important epithelial barrier is maintained by the mucosal immune system and its interaction with the commensal flora via pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Here, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of the interaction of L. monocytogenes with the host immune system that triggers the antibacterial immune responses on the mucosal surfaces of the human gastrointestinal tract.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6c/3f/PMC3003996.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4281652", "abstract": "Objective Erectile dysfunction affects quality of life and is a common dysfunction in drug abusers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of erectile dysfunction in drug abusers on methadone maintenance therapy to reduce this drug side effect in the future studies. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted with two hundred addicted individuals on methadone maintenance therapy. Erectile dysfunction was surveyed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Finally, all data were collected and analyzed by descriptive statistics such as measures of variability and central tendency and Chi-squared (χ2) test using SPSS Version18.0 software. Results The amount of the total frequency of erectile dysfunction was pointed 30 or less among the two hundred patients and included the moderate and severe cases. In this study, the number of patients with erectile dysfunction was fifty three (26.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/c4/PMC4281652.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3883615", "abstract": "Antibiotic treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) commenced in the 1930s with the use of sulfasalazine. Later, tetracyclines were successfully used for the treatment of RA. In double-blind and randomized studies, levofloxacin and macrolide antibiotics (including clarithromycin and roxithromycin) were also shown to be effective in the treatment of RA. There have been several reports in the literature indicating that periodontal pathogens are a possible cause of RA. Oral bacteria are one possible cause of RA. In this review, we aimed to investigate the effects of different antibiotics in RA treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/60/ijgm-7-043.PMC3883615.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4305597", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study showed the effects of different computer typing speeds on acceleration and peak contact pressure of the fingertips during computer typing. [Subjects] Twenty-one male computer workers voluntarily consented to participate in this study. They consisted of 7 workers who could type 200–300 characteristics/minute, 7 workers who could type 300–400 characteristics/minute, and 7 workers who could type 400–500 chracteristics/minute. [Methods] This study was used to measure the acceleration and peak contact pressure of the fingertips for different typing speed groups using an accelerometer and CONFORMat system. [Results] The fingertip contact pressure was increased in the high typing speed group compared with the low and medium typing speed groups. The fingertip acceleration was increased in the high typing speed group compared with the low and medium typing speed groups. [Conclusion] The results of the present study indicate that a fast typing speed cause continuous pressure stress to be applied to the fingers, thereby creating pain in the fingers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a7/7b/jpts-27-57.PMC4305597.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3323852", "abstract": "Cigarette smokers are being encouraged to use smokeless tobacco (SLT) in locations where smoking is banned. We examined state-wide data from Minnesota to measure changes over time in the use of SLT and concurrent use of cigarettes and SLT. The Minnesota Adult Tobacco Survey was conducted four times between 1999 and 2010 and has provided state-wide estimates of cigarette smoking, SLT use and concurrent use of SLT by smokers. The prevalence of SLT was essentially unchanged through 2007, then increased significantly between 2007 and 2010 (3.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/14/f1/PMC3323852.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4615206", "abstract": " Helicobacter pylori colonizes the gastric mucosa of at least half of the human population, causing a worldwide infection that appears in early childhood and if not treated, it can persist for life. The presence of symptoms and their severity depend on bacterial components, host susceptibility, and environmental factors, which allow H. pylori to switch between commensalism and pathogenicity. H. pylori-driven interactions with the host immune system underlie the persistence of the infection in humans, since the bacterium is able to interfere with the activity of innate and adaptive immune cells, reducing the inflammatory response in its favour. Gastritis due to H. pylori results from a complex interaction between several T cell subsets. In particular, H. pylori is known to induce a T helper (Th)1/Th17 cell response-driven gastritis, whose impaired modulation caused by the bacterium is thought to sustain the ongoing inflammatory condition and the unsuccessful clearing of the infection. In this review we discuss the current findings underlying the mechanisms implemented by H. pylori to alter the T helper lymphocyte proliferation, thus facilitating the development of chronic infections and allowing the survival of the bacterium in the human host.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/3b/PMC4615206.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3369969", "abstract": "Most type I and II perforations are predominately caused by hydrophilic and stiff wires, often presented in the delayed form, and do not require pericardial drainage or surgical interventions. However, we report a type III delayed coronary artery perforation at the site of stent implantation after intervention without any evidence of immediate perforations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of angiographic documentation and treatment of delayed coronary perforation at the site of stent, presented as a cardiac arrest.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f6/0c/kcj-42-352.PMC3369969.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4251882", "abstract": "The role of angiogenesis in pituitary tumor development has been questioned, as pituitary tumors have been usually found to be less vascularized than the normal pituitary tissue. Nevertheless, a significantly higher degree of vasculature has been shown in invasive or macropituitary prolactinomas when compared to noninvasive and microprolactinomas. Many growth factors and their receptors are involved in pituitary tumor development. For example, VEGF, FGF-2, FGFR1, and PTTG, which give a particular vascular phenotype, are modified in human and experimental pituitary adenomas of different histotypes. In particular, vascular endothelial growth factor, VEGF, the central mediator of angiogenesis in endocrine glands, was encountered in experimental and human pituitary tumors at different levels of expression and, in particular, was higher in dopamine agonist resistant prolactinomas. Furthermore, several anti-VEGF techniques lowered tumor burden in human and experimental pituitary adenomas. Therefore, even though the role of angiogenesis in pituitary adenomas is contentious, VEGF, making permeable pituitary endothelia, might contribute to adequate temporal vascular supply and mechanisms other than endothelial cell proliferation. The study of angiogenic factor expression in aggressive prolactinomas with resistance to dopamine agonists will yield important data in the search of therapeutical alternatives.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a0/fe/PMC4251882.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3908908", "abstract": "A 45-year-old female with underlying idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) complained of acute onset of reduced vision and floaters, in both eyes, for 3 weeks. Visual acuity was 6/36 and 6/60 in the right eye and left eye, respectively. Ophthalmoscopy showed bilateral peripapillary, subhyaloid and vitreous hemorrhage. Hematological evaluation revealed moderate anemia (hemoglobin: 93 g/L) and mild thrombocytopenia (platelets: 120×109/L). She was co-managed by a hematologist and ophthalmologists; she was treated medically. Follow-up care during the next 6 weeks revealed spontaneous, partially resolving hemorrhage, with improvement of visual acuity. The purpose of this case report is to highlight ophthalmic involvement of ITP in this patient, despite her only-mild thrombocytopenia, and her spontaneous recovery, despite her receiving only medical treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4a/74/imcrj-7-015.PMC3908908.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5053048", "abstract": "Autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) includes hyperthyroid Graves disease, hypothyroid autoimmune thyroiditis, and subtle subclinical thyroid dysfunctions. AITD is caused by interactions between genetic and environmental predisposing factors and results in autoimmune deterioration. Data on polymorphisms in the AITD susceptibility genes, related environmental factors, and dysregulation of autoimmune processes have accumulated over time. Over the last decade, there has been progress in the clinical field of AITD with respect to the available diagnostic and therapeutic methods as well as clinical consensus. The updated clinical guidelines allow practitioners to identify the most reasonable and current approaches for proper management. In this review, we focus on recent advances in understanding the genetic and environmental pathogenic mechanisms underlying AITD and introduce the updated set of clinical guidelines for AITD management. We also discuss other aspects of the disease such as management of subclinical thyroid dysfunction, use of levothyroxine plus levotriiodothyronine in the treatment of autoimmune hypothyroidism, risk assessment of long-standing antithyroid drug therapy in recurrent Graves' hyperthyroidism, and future research needs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/b1/enm-31-379.PMC5053048.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897350", "abstract": "A new resistorless single-input-multi-output (SIMO) universal transadmittance (TA) type filter employing two voltage differencing transconductance amplifiers (VDTA) and two grounded capacitors is proposed. The proposed topology realizes simultaneously low pass (LP), high pass (HP), and band pass (BP) filter functions. Band rejects (BR) and all pass (AP) filters are also realizable through appropriate connections of currents. The proposed configuration also offers independent control of natural angular frequency (ω 0) and bandwidth (BW) and low active and passive sensitivities. The workability of proposed configuration has been demonstrated through PSPICE simulations with TSMC CMOS 0.18 μm process parameters.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/31/4f/PMC4897350.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4933563", "abstract": "Background Nocturia has been proven to have a negative impact on the quality of life and sleep quality in general elderly population. However, there are limited studies on the quantitative effect of nocturia on sleep quality and daytime dysfunction, specifically in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms. Patients and methods During March 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015, a total of 728 patients who visited our urology department due to voiding dysfunction and experienced nocturia at least once per night were enrolled. Three questionnaires were administered to them after obtaining their written consents. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) questionnaire, and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire were applied to evaluate their sleep quality, daytime dysfunction, and voiding problems, respectively. Statistical analysis of the impact of nocturia on sleep quality and daytime dysfunction was performed. Results The mean age of patients was 61 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.7. The mean nocturia number was 3.03. The IPSS, PSQI, and ESS scores were 17.56, 8.35, and 8.22, respectively. The nocturia number increased with age and was significantly correlated to ESS score (daytime dysfunction) and PSQI total score (sleep quality) in overall group. Among subgroups divided by age and sex, there was a significant correlation between nocturia number and daytime dysfunction in male patients or patients younger than 65 years. Conclusion In patients with lower urinary tract symptoms, nocturia number increased with age and was significantly correlated with poor sleep quality. Nocturia plays an important role in patients younger than 65 years in daytime dysfunction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ae/34/cia-11-879.PMC4933563.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4483437", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine the relationships among hearing loss, cognition, and balance ability in elderly individuals. [Subjects and Methods] In total, 46 elderly individuals over 65 years of age who were attending senior welfare centers participated in this study. Through a hearing test, the speech frequency pure tone average in the better ear was checked. We set a criterion of hearing loss if the better ear hearing level (BEHL) value was 25 dB or more. Cognition ability was evaluated using the Korean mini-mental state examination (K-MMSE). Dynamic balance ability was evaluated by the timed up and go (TUG) test, and static balance ability was tested using a one-leg stance test (OLST). [Results] The ages of the subjects were all related to BEHL, TUG, K-MMSE, and OLST. BEHL had a negative correlation with OLST, whereas it had no correlation with K-MMSE or TUG. The hearing loss group had a significantly shorter OLST time than the normal hearing group. [Conclusion] As elderly individuals get older, their hearing and cognition, as well as their balance abilities deteriorate. The results of this study indicate there is a significant correlation between hearing loss and static balance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0e/1f/jpts-27-1539.PMC4483437.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3145888", "abstract": "Large cell neuroendocrine carcinomas of the colon are rare and represent only a small percentage of all colonic endocrine tumors. Here, we report a case of a colonic large cell neuroendocrine carcinomas concurrent with a colonic adenocarcinoma. A 70-year-old man presented with acute abdominal pain. A spiral computed tomography scan of the abdomen revealed eccentric wall thickening on the ascending colon. An explorative laparotomy and a right hemicolectomy were performed. Grossly, two separated masses were observed in the proximal ascending colon. One was a 7.4 × 5.1 cm ulcerative fungating lesion, and the other was a 2.8 × 1.9 cm polypoid lesion. Microscopically, the ulcerative fungating lesion showed a well-differentiated neuroendocrine morphology with necrosis and increased mitosis. Most of the tumor cells had large, vesicular nuclei with eosinophilic nucleoli, variable amounts of eosinophilic cytoplasm, and immunoreactivity for chromogranin A and synaptophysin. The polypoid lesion was a well-differentiated adenocarcinoma that had invaded the submucosa. We diagnosed these lesions as a concurrent large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and an adenocarcinoma of the ascending colon.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f2/24/jksc-27-157.PMC3145888.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4820619", "abstract": " Background and Objectives. Uridine diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase 2B (UGT2B) is a family of genes involved in metabolizing steroid hormones and several other xenobiotics. These UGT2B genes are highly polymorphic in nature and have distinct polymorphisms associated with specific regions around the globe. Copy number variations (CNVs) status of UGT2B17 in Indian population is not known and their disease associations have been inconclusive. It was therefore of interest to investigate the CNV profile of UGT2B genes. Methods. We investigated the presence of CNVs in UGT2B genes in 31 members from eight Indian families using Affymetrix Genome-Wide Human SNP Array 6.0 chip. Results. Our data revealed >50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2b/54/PMC4820619.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4599467", "abstract": "Background Differences in activation of emergency medical services (EMS) may contribute to racial/ethnic and sex disparities in stroke outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine whether EMS use varied by race/ethnicity and sex among a current, diverse national sample of hospitalized acute stroke patients. Methods and Results We analyzed data from 398 798 stroke patients admitted to 1613 Get With The Guidelines–Stroke participating hospitals between October 2011 and March 2014. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the associations between combinations of racial/ethnic and sex groups with EMS use, adjusting for potential confounders including demographics, medical history, and stroke symptoms. Patients were 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3a/15/jah30004-e002099.PMC4599467.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3880697", "abstract": "Pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) is generated from covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) and plays important roles in viral genome amplification and replication. Hepatic pgRNA and cccDNA expression levels indicate viral persistence and replication activity. This study was aimed to measure hepatic pgRNA and cccDNA expression levels in various states of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Thirty-eight hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, including 14 positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and 24 negative for HBsAg but positive for anti-hepatitis B core (anti-HBc) antibody, were enrolled in this study. In HBsAg-negative but anti-HBc-positive group, HBV-DNA was detected in 20 of 24 (83", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f8/f6/PMC3880697.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2651751", "abstract": "A multivariate statistical theory, local feature analysis (LFA), extracts functionally relevant domains from molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories. The LFA representations, like those of principal component analysis (PCA), are low dimensional and provide a reduced basis set for collective motions of simulated proteins, but the local features are sparsely distributed and spatially localized, in contrast to global PCA modes. One key problem in the assignment of local features is the coarse-graining of redundant LFA output functions by means of seed atoms. One can solve the combinatorial problem by adding seed atoms one after another to a growing set, minimizing a reconstruction error at each addition. This allows for an efficient implementation, but the sequential algorithm does not guarantee the optimal mutual correlation of the sequentially assigned features. Here, we present a novel coarse-graining algorithm for proteins that directly minimizes the mutual correlation of seed atoms by Monte Carlo (MC) simulations. Tests on MD trajectories of two biological systems, bacteriophage T4 lysozyme and myosin II motor domain S1, demonstrate that the new algorithm provides statistically reproducible results and describes functionally relevant dynamics. The well-known undersampling of large-scale motion by short MD simulations is apparent also in our model, but the new coarse-graining offers a major advantage over PCA; converged features are invariant across multiple windows of the trajectory, dividing the protein into converged regions and a smaller number of localized, undersampled regions. In addition to its use in structure classification, the proposed coarse-graining thus provides a localized measure of MD sampling efficiency.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3a/4a/PMC2651751.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4256000", "abstract": "Phalanx bone metastasis as the initial presenting sign of lung cancer is a rare presentation. Lung cancer is known to metastasize to the bone, but rarely to the fingers. A 61-year-old male smoker presented with pain in the left ring finger. Severe pain discouraged the patient from using his left hand. An X-ray of the left hand showed a lytic bone lesion. The patient was treated with finger radiotherapy. Analgesics were no longer needed and the patient was able to reuse his left hand in his everyday life. Palliative radiotherapy relieved our patient and improved his quality of life.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c8/90/cro-0007-0727.PMC4256000.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5021903", "abstract": " In macular spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) volumes, detection of the foveal center is required for accurate and reproducible follow-up studies, structure function correlation, and measurement grid positioning. However, disease can cause severe obscuring or deformation of the fovea, thus presenting a major challenge in automated detection. We propose a fully automated fovea detection algorithm to extract the fovea position in SD-OCT volumes of eyes with exudative maculopathy. The fovea is classified into 3 main appearances to both specify the detection algorithm used and reduce computational complexity. Based on foveal type classification, the fovea position is computed based on retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. Mean absolute distance between system and clinical expert annotated fovea positions from a dataset comprised of 240 SD-OCT volumes was 162.3 µm in cystoid macular edema and 262 µm in nAMD. The presented method has cross-vendor functionality, while demonstrating accurate and reliable performance close to typical expert interobserver agreement. The automatically detected fovea positions may be used as landmarks for intra- and cross-patient registration and to create a joint reference frame for extraction of spatiotemporal features in “big data.” Furthermore, reliable analyses of retinal thickness, as well as retinal structure function correlation, may be facilitated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8d/8c/PMC5021903.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3420558", "abstract": "Encephalopathy with status epilepticus during sleep (ESES) is an epileptic encephalopathy, as defined by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) Task Force on Classification and Terminology, that is, a condition in which the epileptic processes themselves are believed to contribute to the disturbance in cerebral function. Clinical manifestations of ESES are heterogeneous: apart from different seizure types, they consist in combinations of cognitive, motor, and behavioural disturbances associated with a peculiar electroencephalographic pattern of paroxysmal activity significantly activated during slow sleep, which culminates in a picture of continuous spikes and waves during sleep (CSWS). The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this condition are still incompletely understood. Establishing a clear-cut correlation between EEG abnormalities and clinical data, though interesting, is very complex. Computer-assisted EEG analyses especially if combined with functional magnetic resonance imaging (EEG-fMRI) and metabolic neuroimaging have recently emerged as useful approaches to better understand the pathophysiological processes underlying ESES. Treatment of ESES is not just limited to seizures control but it should be focused on controlling neuropsychological outcome through an improvement of the continuous epileptiform activity. General agreement on treatment guidelines is still lacking. Implementation of new techniques might allow a better understanding of the pathophysiology of ESES and could enhance therapeutics options.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/20/c8/PMC3420558.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3177413", "abstract": "Radiology has been the focus of efforts to reduce inefficiencies while attempting to lower medical costs. The 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule has reduced Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) reimbursements related to the technical component of imaging services. By increasing the utilization rate, the cost of equipment spreads over more studies, thus lowering the payments per procedure. Is it beneficial for CMS to focus on equipment utilization as a cost-cutting measure? Can greater financial and quality of care rewards be made by improving metrics like appropriateness criteria and pre-authorization? On examining quality metrics, such as appropriateness criteria and pre-authorization, promising results have ensued. The development and enforcement of appropriateness criteria lowers overutilization of studies without requiring unattainable fixed rates. Pre-authorization educates ordering physicians as to when imaging is indicated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b2/96/JCIS-1-28.PMC3177413.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2829408", "abstract": "Secondary leukemia occurring after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is rare. Secondary AML usually follows autologous and not allogeneic transplants. When a new leukemia develops in a patient successfully treated with an allogeneic HSCT, the possibility of a de novo or secondary leukemia from either the donor or recipient should be considered. We present a case initially diagnosed as de novo AML without a cytogenetic abnormality. The patient was successfully treated with an HLA-matched sibling allogeneic HSCT. However, more than six years later, AML developed again and was associated with new complex cytogenetic abnormalities. After a second HSCT, the patient has been followed without serious complications. Considering the allogeneic setting, the newly developed cytogenetic abnormalities, a relatively long latent period, and the good clinical course after the second allogeneic HSCT, this case might represent a second de novo AML following successful treatment of the first AML.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1c/d4/PMC2829408.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4737469", "abstract": "Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in elderly people. It is an irreversible and progressive brain disease. In this paper, we utilized diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) to detect abnormal topological organization of white matter (WM) structural networks. We compared the differences between WM connectivity characteristics at global, regional, and local levels in 26 patients with probable AD and 16 normal control (NC) elderly subjects, using connectivity networks constructed with the diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) model and the high angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) model, respectively. At the global level, we found that the WM structural networks of both AD and NC groups had a small-world topology; however, the AD group showed a significant decrease in both global and local efficiency, but an increase in clustering coefficient and the average shortest path length. We further found that the AD patients had significantly decreased nodal efficiency at the regional level, as well as weaker connections in multiple local cortical and subcortical regions, such as precuneus, temporal lobe, hippocampus, and thalamus. The HARDI model was found to be more advantageous than the DTI model, as it was more sensitive to the deficiencies in AD at all of the three levels.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/bb/PMC4737469.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3351123", "abstract": "Recently, there have been several major technical advances in the sonographic diagnosis of ovarian cancer in its early stages. These include improved assessment of tumor morphology with transvaginal sonography (TVS), and detection and characterization of tumor neovascularity with transvaginal color Doppler sonography (TV-CDS) and contrast-enhanced transvaginal sonography (CE-TVS). This paper will discuss and illustrate these improvements and describe how they enhance detection of early-stage ovarian cancer. Our initial experience with parametric mapping of CE-TVS will also be mentioned.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9c/ed/PMC3351123.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4575004", "abstract": "Bronchobiliary fistula (BBF) is a rare condition that is defined as an abnormal communication between the biliary system and bronchial tree. Furthermore, a BBF is an extremely rare complication of radiofrequency ablation (RFA). A 54 year-old man with a history of extrahepatic biliary cancer had been suffering with a benign stricture of hepaticojejunostomy site and was treated with RFA for metastatic cholangicarcinoma. In this report, we describe a patient with BBF complicated by an abscess which occurred after RFA. He was treated by placement of external drainage catheter into the liver abscess and percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) into the right intrahepatic duct. After 6 weeks, a complete obliteration of the BBF was confirmed by a repeated follow-up of computed tomography scan and cholangiography through PTBD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2c/39/kjhbps-16-110.PMC4575004.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5006552", "abstract": "Superficial angiomyxomas (SA) of the skin are rare benign cutaneous tumors of soft tissue composed of prominent myxoid matrix and numerous blood vessels. SA are more common in males and they are usually located on the trunk but can also appear on the lower limbs, head, neck and genitalia. Treatment is surgical, the total excision is curative, but local recurrence is possible. Herein we present a 72-year-old patient with a history of melanoma in situ, with a new lesion on the lower back.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/45/66/PMC5006552.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2763072", "abstract": "OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to develop a pointing device controlled by head movement that had the same functions as a conventional mouse and to evaluate the performance of the proposed device when operated by quadriplegic users. METHODS Ten individuals with cervical spinal cord injury participated in functional evaluations of the developed pointing device. The device consisted of a video camera, computer software, and a target attached to the front part of a cap, which was placed on the user’s head. The software captured images of the target coming from the video camera and processed them with the aim of determining the displacement from the center of the target and correlating this with the movement of the computer cursor. Evaluation of the interaction between each user and the proposed device was carried out using 24 multidirectional tests with two degrees of difficulty. RESULTS According to the parameters of mean throughput and movement time, no statistically significant differences were observed between the repetitions of the tests for either of the studied levels of difficulty. CONCLUSIONS The developed pointing device adequately emulates the movement functions of the computer cursor. It is easy to use and can be learned quickly when operated by quadriplegic individuals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/2d/PMC2763072.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5067326", "abstract": "Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are key players in the pathogenesis of inflammatory conditions including coronary arterial disease (CAD). They are expressed by a variety of immune cells where they recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). TLRs recruit adaptor molecules, including myeloid differentiation primary response protein (MYD88) and TIRF-related adaptor protein (TRAM), to mediate activation of MAPKs and NF-kappa B pathways. They are associated with the development of CAD through various mechanisms. TLR4 is expressed in lipid-rich and atherosclerotic plaques. In TLR2−/− and TLR4−/− mice, atherosclerosis-associated inflammation was diminished. Moreover, TLR2 and TLR4 may induce expression of Wnt5a in advanced staged atheromatous plaque leading to activation of the inflammatory processes. TLR9 is activated by CpG motifs in nucleic acids and have been implicated in macrophage activation and the uptake of oxLDL from the circulation. Furthermore, TLR9 also stimulates interferon-α (INF-α) secretion and increases cytotoxic activity of CD4+ T-cells towards coronary artery tunica media smooth muscle cells. This review outlines the pathophysiological role of TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9 in atherosclerosis, focusing on evidence from animal models of the disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9e/7c/PMC5067326.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3120277", "abstract": "Sub acute left-sided bacterial endocarditis is a serious condition that may be overlooked due to highly variable clinical manifestations. We present the case of a 45-year-old man who presented with complaints of fullness in his abdomen and splenomegaly that referred to the surgery clinic. He underwent diagnostic splenectomy. 3 month after splenectomy endocarditis was diagnosed. We recommend echocardiography in the work up of isolated splenomegaly.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a6/5e/JCDR-2-71.PMC3120277.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4344263", "abstract": "Twelve patients with murine typhus were identified in Galveston, Texas, USA, in 2013. An isolate from 1 patient was confirmed to be Rickettsia typhi. Reemergence of murine typhus in Galveston emphasizes the importance of vector control and awareness of this disease by physicians and public health officials.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/37/e9/PMC4344263.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5084756", "abstract": "Abstract The application of commonly used force spectroscopy in biological systems is often limited by the need for an invasive tether connecting the molecules of interest to a bead or cantilever tip. Here we present a DNA origami‐based prototype in a comparative binding assay. It has the advantage of in situ readout without any physical connection to the macroscopic world. The seesaw‐like structure has a lever that is able to move freely relative to its base. Binding partners on each side force the structure into discrete and distinguishable conformations. Model experiments with competing DNA hybridisation reactions yielded a drastic shift towards the conformation with the stronger binding interaction. With reference DNA duplexes of tuneable length on one side, this device can be used to measure ligand interactions in comparative assays.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d5/99/CBIC-17-1093.PMC5084756.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3385129", "abstract": "L-Phenylalanine is one of the essential amino acids that cannot be synthesized in mammals in adequate amounts to meet the requirements for protein synthesis. Fungi and plants are able to synthesize phenylalanine via the shikimic acid pathway. L-Phenylalanine, derived from the shikimic acid pathway, is used directly for protein synthesis in plants or metabolized through the phenylpropanoid pathway. This phenylpropanoid metabolism leads to the biosynthesis of a wide array of phenylpropanoid secondary products. The first step in this metabolic sequence involves the action of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL). The discovery of PAL enzyme in fungi and the detection of 14CO2 production from 14C-ring-labeled phenylalanine and cinnamic acid demonstrated that certain fungi can degrade phenylalanine by a pathway involving an initial deamination to cinnamic acid, as happens in plants. In this review, we provide background information on PAL and a recent update on the presence of PAL genes in fungi.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/67/45/mb-39-257.PMC3385129.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4427370", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Puerperal infection with Group A streptococcus (GAS) can present with few symptoms and rapidly progress to a life-threatening condition. Often, the infection can be treated with antibiotics. Delay in diagnosis increases risk of sepsis, multiorgan failure, and death. GAS infection is a differential diagnose for all postpartum women with unexplained symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7f/d7/ccr30003-0291.PMC4427370.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3854605", "abstract": "End plates serve as the interface between rigid vertebral bodies and pliant intervertebral disks. Because the lumbar spine carries significant forces and disks don't have a dedicated blood supply, end plates must balance conflicting requirements of being strong to prevent vertebral fracture and porous to facilitate transport between disk cells and vertebral capillaries. Consequently, end plates are particularly susceptible to damage, which can increase communication between proinflammatory disk constituents and vascularized vertebral bone marrow. Damaged end plate regions can be sites of reactive bone marrow lesions that include proliferating nerves, which are susceptible to chemical sensitization and mechanical stimulation. Although several lines of evidence indicate that innervated end plate damage can be a source of chronic low back pain, its role in patients is likely underappreciated because innervated damage is poorly visualized with diagnostic imaging. This literature review summarizes end plate biophysical function and aspects of pathologic degeneration that can lead to vertebrogenic pain. Areas of future research are identified in the context of unmet clinical needs for patients with chronic low back pain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c0/82/PMC3854605.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3493983", "abstract": "Mammalian oocyte development is characterized by impressive changes in chromatin structure and function within the germinal vesicle (GV). These changes are crucial to confer the oocyte with meiotic and developmental competencies. In cow, oocytes collected from early and middle antral follicles present four patterns of chromatin configuration, from GV0 to GV3, and its progressive condensation has been related to the achievement of developmental potential. During oogenesis, follicular cells are essential for the acquisition of meiotic and developmental competencies and communicate with the oocyte by paracrine and gap junction mediated mechanisms. We recently analyzed the role of gap junction communications (GJC) on chromatin remodeling process during the specific phase of folliculogenesis that coincides with the transcriptional silencing and sequential acquisition of meiotic and developmental capabilities. Our studies demonstrated that GJC between germinal and somatic compartments plays a fundamental role in the regulation of chromatin remodeling and transcription activities during the final oocyte differentiation, throughout cAMP dependent mechanism(s).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/14/PMC3493983.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2851496", "abstract": "We isolated a novel strain of tickborne encephalitis virus (TBEV), Glubinnoe/2004, from a patient with a fatal case in Russia. We sequenced the strain, whose landmark features included 57 amino acid substitutions and 5 modified cleavage sites. Phylogenetically, Glubinnoe/2004 is a novel variant that belongs to the Eastern type of TBEV.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ad/f8/PMC2851496.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3953658", "abstract": "Adipokines, such as nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), are molecules, which are produced in adipose tissue. Recent studies suggest that NAMPT might also be produced in the tooth-supporting tissues, that is, periodontium, which also includes the gingiva. The aim of this study was to examine if and under what conditions NAMPT is produced in gingival fibroblasts and biopsies from healthy and inflamed gingiva. Gingival fibroblasts produced constitutively NAMPT, and this synthesis was significantly increased by interleukin-1β and the oral bacteria P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum. Inhibition of the MEK1/2 and NFκB pathways abrogated the stimulatory effects of F. nucleatum on NAMPT. Furthermore, the expression and protein levels of NAMPT were significantly enhanced in gingival biopsies from patients with periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory infectious disease of the periodontium, as compared to gingiva from periodontally healthy individuals. In summary, the present study provides original evidence that gingival fibroblasts produce NAMPT and that this synthesis is increased under inflammatory and infectious conditions. Local synthesis of NAMPT in the inflamed gingiva may contribute to the enhanced gingival and serum levels of NAMPT, as observed in periodontitis patients. Moreover, local production of NAMPT by gingival fibroblasts may represent a possible mechanism whereby periodontitis may impact on systemic diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fc/af/PMC3953658.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4869571", "abstract": "Purpose This post hoc analysis evaluated treatment effects, safety, and pharmacokinetics of enzalutamide in Korean patients in the phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled PREVAIL trial. Materials and Methods Asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic chemotherapy-naive men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer that progressed on androgen deprivation therapy received 160 mg/d oral enzalutamide or placebo (1:1) until death or discontinuation due to radiographic progression or skeletal-related event and initiation of subsequent therapy. Coprimary end points were centrally assessed radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS) and overall survival (OS). Secondary end points included investigator-assessed rPFS, time to initiation of chemotherapy, time to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) progression, PSA response (≥50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/df/82/icu-57-174.PMC4869571.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3419109", "abstract": "This paper expands on recent findings that link dynamic patterns of striatal activity with patterns of movement and exploration in wild-type and transgenic mice (R6/2) that model Huntington disease (HD), a fatally inherited neurological condition. Here, with HD as a backdrop, we further develop the concept of entropy conservation in brain and behavior. In particular, we propose that entropy conservation could serve as a rule that guides the process of redistributing brain activity dynamics in order to alter behavior, allowing the adaptation to an ever-changing external environment. This concept is further linked to recent neuroimaging studies in human aging, building a new bridge between our recent findings of entropy conservation and the extant literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bc/61/cib-5-259.PMC3419109.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5080189", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of ultrasonography for the diagnosis of polyneuropathy in diabetic patients by examination of the median and ulnar nerves. [Subjects and Methods] Sixty-three diabetic patients and fourteen controls were enrolled in the study. Nerve conduction studies were performed on both upper and lower limbs. Median and ulnar nerve cross-sectional areas were measured at the wrist and forearm levels in 140 hands by ultrasound. [Results] The median nerve cross-sectional area was increased at the hook of hamatum, pisiform bone, and radioulnar joint levels in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The ulnar nerve area at the medial epicondyle was significantly increased in the diabetic polyneuropathy (9.2 ± 1.6), diabetic polyneuropathy plus carpal tunnel syndrome (9.3 ± 1.4), and carpal tunnel syndrome (9.2 ± 1.9) groups compared with the control group (7.7 ± 1.1). In receiver operating characteristics analysis, the cutoff value of the ulnar nerve was 8.5 mm2 at ulnar epicondyle with 71.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/09/jpts-28-2620.PMC5080189.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3505921", "abstract": "The influence of genic polymorphisms involved in metabolism of chemotherapeutic agents as the methotrexate (MTX) has been studied mainly in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) of childhood. Advances in treatment may be attributed to identification of prognostic factors added to chemotherapy protocol. The aim of this study was to analyze the association of the C677T, A1298C, and G80A polymorphisms on MTHFR gene and on the overall survival of pediatric patients (n = 126) with lymphoblastic leukemia treated with MTX according to the Brazilian protocol in 187 months. The C677T and G80A polymorphisms were genotyped by PCR-RFLP and A1298C polymorphism by allele-specific PCR. We observed that ALL patients presented rate (dead/alive) of 0.36 for the 677CC genotype, corresponding also to lower overall survival (P = 0.0013); on the other hand, the 677TT genotype showed a better survival (98", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/8e/PMC3505921.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3388431", "abstract": " Purpose. Although randomized trials suggest a survival benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy (XRT) for gastric adenocarcinoma, its use in patients who undergo an extended lymphadenectomy is less clear. The purpose of this study was to determine if a survival benefit exists in gastric cancer patients who receive adjuvant XRT following resection with extended lymphadenectomy. Methods. The SEER registry was queried for records of patients with resected gastric adenocarcinoma from 1988 to 2007. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to assess independent prognostic factors affecting overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS). Results. Of 15,060 patients identified, 3,208 (21", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f0/2f/PMC3388431.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4605361", "abstract": "Malaria is the most important parasitic disease worldwide, accounting for 1 million deaths each year. Severe malaria is a systemic illness characterized by dysfunction of brain tissue and of one or more peripheral organs as lungs and kidney. The most severe and most studied form of malaria is associated with cerebral complications due to capillary congestion and the adhesion of infected erythrocytes, platelets, and leukocytes to brain vasculature. Thus, leukocyte rolling and adhesion in the brain vascular bed during severe malaria is singular and distinct from other models of inflammation. The leukocyte/endothelium interaction and neutrophil accumulation are also observed in the lungs. However, lung interactions differ from brain interactions, likely due to differences in the blood-brain barrier and blood-air barrier tight junction composition of the brain and lung endothelium. Here, we review the importance of endothelial dysfunction and the mechanism of leukocyte/endothelium interaction during severe malaria. Furthermore, we hypothesize a possible use of adjunctive therapies to antimalarial drugs that target the interaction between the leukocytes and the endothelium.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f7/7e/PMC4605361.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4811853", "abstract": "Echinocandins are recommended as first-line agents to treat invasive infections caused by Candida glabrata since this organism is inherently less susceptible to azoles. However, resistance to echinocandins has been described in C. glabrata due to amino acid changes in the hotspot regions of the FKS1 and FKS2 genes. In this report, we describe the first two South African C. glabrata isolates with echinocandin resistance mediated by mutations in the FKS2 gene. Both isolates were cultured from urine specimens from private-sector patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/db/main.PMC4811853.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3466884", "abstract": "T-wave oversensing occurs when the counter starts giving dual beeps for every cardiac cycle instead of one. This usually happens when the monitoring lead displays a tall T wave, which is also sharp. R wave sensing algorithms of the devices do not sense T wave because the slow rate of the T wave is much less than that of the R wave. But the slow rate of T waves may change with time and also because of parameters like potassium levels and hyperglycemia. We present a 67-year-old female who underwent the implantation of cardiac resynchronization therapy (cardiac resynchronization and implantable cardioverter defibrilator [CRT-D]) because of severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction and ventricular dyssynchrony experienced recurrent inappropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) shocks and CRT failure. Device analysis showed that the CRT failure was in consequence of T-wave oversensing due to hyperglycemia. Elimination of the T-wave oversensing after hyperglycemia control conferred good biventricular pacing and good response to CRT during a 6-month follow-up period.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/df/8b/jthc-7-30.PMC3466884.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4515887", "abstract": "Mutations in CYP24A1, encoding the vitamin D 24-hydroxlase enzyme, are known to cause a range of clinical phenotypes and presentations including idiopathic infantile hypercalcaemia and adult-onset nephrocalcinosis and nephrolithiasis. In the context of raised or borderline high serum calcium levels, suppressed PTH and persistently elevated 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D levels, this rare condition should be considered. We present a case where this biochemical pattern was seen and mutations in CYP24A1 were confirmed. We were able to successfully control serum calcium levels and reduce urinary calcium excretion by treatment with low-dose fluconazole, which inhibits vitamin D-synthesizing enzymes (including 25-hydroxylases and 1-α-hydroxylase) thereby reducing levels of 1,25–dihydroxy vitamin D.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6a/1d/sfv028.PMC4515887.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4461743", "abstract": "A 45-year old man, who had tuberculosis five years ago presented with paresthesia, decreased proprioception, and gait disturbance in the lower extremity which were aggravated for a month. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed the T3-7 intradural extramedullary fibrotic mass with dark signal intensity on T2-weighted images. The yellowish material in the thick fibrous mass was confirmed as caseous necrosis. Two days after the operation, the symptoms improved. Although quite rare, intradural extramedullary tuberculoma should be considered as a chronic sequel of the previous medical history of pulmonary tuberculosis or tuberculous meningitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/00/e2/kjs-8-295.PMC4461743.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3975188", "abstract": "In 2013, at the congress of the European CanCer Organization and the European Society for Medical Oncology, colorectal cancer was the subject of various oral presentations and posters. In this article, we have selected the most innovative studies that are likely to change our daily practice.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/54/cjc-33-04-218.PMC3975188.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4535943", "abstract": "Chronic Trichloroethylene (TCE) exposure could induce hepatocellular carcinoma in mice, and occupational exposure in humans was suggested to be associated with liver cancer. To understand the role of non-genotoxic mechanism(s) for TCE action, we examined the gene expression and DNA methylation changes in the liver of B6C3F1 mice orally administered with TCE for 5 days. As a beginning step, we profiled gene expression alterations induced by the TCE in mouse livers. Here we describe in detail the experimental methods, quality controls, and other information associated with our data deposited into Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) under GSE58819. Our data provide useful information for gene expression responses to TCE in mouse liver.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/8f/main.PMC4535943.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3389532", "abstract": "Ten varieties and eight generations (2F1, 2F2, 2B1 and 2B2) of durum wheat derived from two crosses were evaluated for resistance to natural infection by Stagonospora nodorum blotch (SNB) at the 2–3 and 6–7 leaf stages at two sites over two years. There were significant differences in the incidence of SNB between leaf stages in most of the wheat varieties, with resistance being most evident at the 6–7 leaf stage. Separate analyses of the mean values for each generation showed that the genetic mechanism of defense against the pathogen depended upon the leaf stage. At the 2–3 leaf stage, only additive and dominance effects were implicated in the control of SNB for the two crosses at the two sites and for the two replications. For the 6–7 leaf stage, inheritance was more complicated and an epistatic effect was involved. Narrow-sense heritability values (range: 0.63–0.67) were consistent between crosses and leaf stages. These findings indicate a lack of resistance to SNB at the 2–3 leaf stage whereas resistance was observed at the 6–7 leaf stage and involved the genetic mechanisms of plant defense such as epistasis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/89/37/PMC3389532.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2902009", "abstract": "Patient-centered interdisciplinary health care for children with chronic medical disorders represents an evolution from the traditional “stop and go” treatment for acute illnesses. This model for health care delivery has been called the “medical home,” a concept that was originally developed in pediatrics for the care of children with special needs. Patient and family-centered, comprehensive, interdisciplinary, culturally effective, and readily accessible health care delivery is desirable for the care of children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. As children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) become adolescents and young adults, transfer of this health care delivery model to adult endocrinologists is appropriate.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/1e/PMC2902009.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4371510", "abstract": "Background and Purpose: Primary care practice-based research has become more complex with increased use of electronic health records (EHRs). Little has been reported about changes in study planning and execution that are required as practices change from paper-based to electronic-based environments. We describe the evolution of a pediatric practice-based intervention study as it was adapted for use in the electronic environment, to enable other practice-based researchers to plan efficient, effective studies. Methods: We adapted a paper-based pediatric office-level intervention to enhance parent-provider communication about subspecialty referrals for use in two practice-based research networks (PBRNs) with partially and fully electronic environments. We documented the process of adaptation and its effect on study feasibility and efficiency, resource use, and administrative and regulatory complexities, as the study was implemented in the two networks. Results: Considerable time and money was required to adapt the paper-based study to the electronic environment, requiring extra meetings with institutional EHR-, regulatory-, and administrative teams, and increased practice training. Institutional unfamiliarity with using EHRs in practice-based research, and the consequent need to develop new policies, were major contributors to delays. Adapting intervention tools to the EHR and minimizing practice disruptions was challenging, but resulted in several efficiencies as compared with a paper-based project. In particular, recruitment and tracking of subjects and data collection were easier and more efficient. Conclusions: Practice-based intervention research in an electronic environment adds considerable cost and time at the outset of a study, especially for centers unfamiliar with such research. Efficiencies generated have the potential of easing the work of study enrollment, subject tracking, and data collection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/cc/egems1111.PMC4371510.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3629346", "abstract": "The hallucal interphalangeal sesamoid bone is usually asymptomatic, but it is not uncommon for it to be symptomatic in cases of undue pressure, overuse, or trauma. Even in symptomatic cases, however, patients often suffer for extended periods due to misdiagnosis, resulting in depression and anxiety that can steadily worsen to the extent that symptoms are sometimes mistaken for a somatoform disorder. Dynamic ultrasound-guided evaluations can be an effective means of detecting symptomatic sesamoid bones, and a simple injection of a small dose of local anesthetics mixed with steroids is an easily performed and effective treatment option in cases, for example, of tenosynovitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/3a/kjpain-26-173.PMC3629346.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5099267", "abstract": "Resistance to benzimidazoles (BZs) in trichostrongyloid nematodes is a worldwide problem for livestock production, particularly regarding small ruminants. Sensitive and reliable methods are required to assess anthelmintic resistance status. Currently available methods for BZ resistance detection can be divided into three main groups, in vivo (e.g. faecal egg count reduction test), in vitro (e.g. egg hatch assay) and molecular tests. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the isotype-1 β-tubulin gene of various nematode species correlate with BZ resistance. While PCR-based methods have been reported for the three most economically important nematodes of sheep, namely, Trichostrongylus, Haemonchus and Teladorsagia, pyrosequencing assays are so far only available for the latter two. Here, the design and evaluation of pyrosequencing assays for isotype-1 and isotype-2 β-tubulin genes of Trichostrongylus colubriformis are described. PCR fragments carrying the susceptible and corresponding resistant genotype were combined in defined ratios to evaluate assay sensitivity and linearity. The correlation between the given and the measured allele frequencies of the respective SNPs (codons F167Y, E198A and F200Y) was very high. Pyrosequencing assays for Haemonchus, Teladorsagia and Trichostrongylus were subsequently used for a BZ resistance survey, carried out in the three European countries, namely Ireland, Italy and Switzerland. Larval cultures obtained from field survey samples in 2012 and 2013 were used for pyrosequencing. The test was applied when the target species represented at least 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/be/c9/main.PMC5099267.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3983532", "abstract": "The authors describe a case of communicating hydrocephalus accompanied by an arachnoid cyst in an aneurismal subarachnoid hemorrhage. A 69-year-old female was referred to our clinic due to the sudden onset of a headache. A head computed tomography scan demonstrated an arachnoid cyst in the right middle fossa with a mass effect and diffuse subarachnoid hemorrhage. Digital subtraction angiography then revealed a left internal carotid-posterior communicating artery aneurysm. The neck of the aneurysm was clipped successfully and the post-operative period was uneventful. However, two months after discharge, the patient reported that her mental status had declined over previous weeks. A cranial computed tomography scan revealed an interval increase in the size of the ventricle and arachnoid cyst causing a midline shift. Simultaneous navigation guided ventriculoperitoneal shunt and cystoperitoneal shunt placement resulted in remarkable radiological and clinical improvements.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/41/jcen-15-311.PMC3983532.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4948255", "abstract": "Background An absolute prerequisite to the effective management of dementia is its early diagnosis. Successful dementia screening requires precise and sensitive instruments that can be completed even by illiterate elderly people. Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the cognitive state test (COST). Materials and Methods This methodologic study was conducted in Kashan, Iran, during 2013 - 2014. A purposeful sample of 150 healthy elderly people and 50 elderly patients with dementia was recruited. After translating the instrument by using the standard forward-backward technique, we assessed its qualitative and quantitative face and content validity. The validity of the test was assessed by using the concurrent validity and the exploratory factor analysis. We also calculated Cronbach’s alpha and employed the test-retest method for evaluating the internal consistency and the stability of the test, respectively. Study data were analyzed by using the SPSS v16.0, the Spearman-Brown, and the intraclass correlation coefficient tests and the principal components factor analysis with varimax rotation. Results The Persian COST consists of nineteen items. The impact scores, the content validity ratios and the content validity indices of all test items were greater than 4.5, 0.69, and 0.84, respectively. The COST had a significant correlation with the clinical dementia rating (rS = -0.76, P value < 0.001), indicating an acceptable concurrent validity for the test. The exploratory factor analysis revealed a five-factor structure that explained 60.59", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b3/df/ircmj-18-05-23786.PMC4948255.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4009262", "abstract": "The clinical utility of tender point (TP) examination in patients reporting chronic widespread pain (CWP) is the subject of contemporary debate. The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between mechanical hyperalgesia assessed by manual TP examination and clinical disease severity. 271 women with CWP were recruited from a clinical setting. Data collection included patient-reported symptoms, health-related quality of life variables, and observation-based measures of functional ability, muscle strength, 6-minute walk, and pressure pain thresholds measured by cuff algometry. TP examination was conducted according to ACR-guidelines. Relationships between disease variables and TP count (TPC) were analyzed with logistic regression in a continuum model, allowing the TPC to depend on the included disease variables and two regression models carried out for a TPC threshold level, varying between 1 and 17. The threshold analyses indicated a TPC threshold at 8, above which a large number of disease variables became consistently significant explanatory factors, whereas none of the disease variables reached a significance level in the continuum model. These results support the premise that the presence of mechanical hyperalgesia influences symptomatology in CWP and that the severity of clinical expression is related to a threshold of TPs, rather than being part of a continuum.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/16/61/PMC4009262.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3109656", "abstract": "Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder whose clinical onset is mainly characterized by memory loss. During AD progression, behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) frequently occur. In this paper we evaluated the association between AD and the short/long (S/L) functional polymorphism of the promoter region of the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) transporter gene (SLC6A4). The S-allele shows a 2-fold reduced transcriptional rate, causing an imbalance in 5-HT intracellular availability that might in turn trigger behavioral and cognitive alterations. We also genotyped the SLC6A4 promoter functional variant rs25531 (A → G). By comparing the genotypic and allelic frequencies in an Italian population of 235 AD and 207 controls, we found an association between 5-HTTLPR  and AD (odds ratio for the L-allele versus the S-allele:  0.74, associated P value = .03), while no difference was found for the rs25531. A meta-analysis of studies in Italy assessing 5-HTTLPR and AD risk gave an estimation of odds ratio for the L-allele versus the S-allele of 0.85 (associated P value = .08). Overall, our findings are not supportive of a large genetic effect of the explored polymorphisms on AD risk.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/06/5f/PMC3109656.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5003512", "abstract": "Background Age is an important determinant of outcome in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, in clinical settings, there is an occasional mismatch between chronological age and physical age. We evaluated whether activities of daily living (ADL), which reflect physical age, also predict complications and prognosis in elderly patients with AMI. Design Single-center, observational, and retrospective cohort study. Methods Preserved ADL and low ADL were defined according to the scale for independence degree of daily living for the disabled elderly by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare. We examined 82 consecutive patients aged ≥75 years with AMI who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients were divided into preserved ADL (n=52; mean age, 81.8±4.8 years; male, 59.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5f/49/cia-11-1141.PMC5003512.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4341352", "abstract": "Introduction: Deformities of the uvula are considered as the dark area of otorhinolaryngology practice. This little and plain part of the human organism has various functions and its abnormalities might cause serious disabilities. Case Presentation: In our case report, we present a unique deformity of the uvula in a 56-year-old woman. Discussion: The aim of this report was to present a very rare condition, unique case “polyuvula”, and to review the literature regarding other uvula abnormalities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/ab/ircmj-16-12-16638.PMC4341352.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4797543", "abstract": "Background: Trichophyton rubrum represents the most common infectious fungus responsible for dermatophytosis in human, but the mechanism involved is still not completely understood. An appropriate model constructed to simulate host infection is the prerequisite to study the pathogenesis of dermatophytosis caused by T. rubrum. In this study, we intended to develop a new T. rubrum infection model in vitro, using the three-dimensional reconstructed epidermis - EpiSkin®, and to pave the way for further investigation of the mechanisms involved in T. rubrum infection. Methods: The reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) was infected by inoculating low-dose (400 conidia) and high-dose (4000 conidia) T. rubrum conidia to optimize the infection dose. During the various periods after infection, the samples were processed for pathological examination and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation. Results: The histological analysis of RHE revealed a fully differentiated epidermis with a functional stratum corneum, which was analogous to the normal human epidermis. The results of hematoxylin and eosin staining and the periodic acid-Schiff staining showed that the infection dose of 400 conidia was in accord with the pathological characteristics of host dermatophytosis caused by T. rubrum. SEM observations further exhibited the process of T. rubrum infection in an intuitionistic way. Conclusions: We established the T. rubrum infection model on RHE in vitro successfully. It is a promising model for further investigation of the mechanisms involved in T. rubrum infection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2a/1a/CMJ-129-54.PMC4797543.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4834187", "abstract": "Background Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and Hepatitis E virus (HEV) are both transmitted by the fecal-oral route and are known as the leading causes of acute viral hepatitis in the world, especially in developing countries. There is a lack of updated data on HAV and HEV seroprevalence in Iran. Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of HAV and HEV among a group of blood donors in Tehran, Iran. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was performed from July 2014 to December 2014, on a total of 559 blood donors referred to the Tehran blood transfusion center. The serum samples were tested for antibodies to HAV and HEV, using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results In the present study, 536 (95.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b6/df/hepatmon-16-01-32215.PMC4834187.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2874688", "abstract": "Alloislet transplantation for the treatment of type 1 diabetes enjoyed highly favorable status in the first half of the last decade but declined in favor during the second half. In this Perspective, I will briefly review the literature published in this area from 2000 to 2010 for the purposes of extracting lessons we have learned, considering whether the procedure should be deemed a partial success or a partial failure, and offering several strategies to improve alloislet transplantation outcomes in the future. In the end, I hope to strike a positive note about where this procedure is going, and how it will be applied to establish insulin independence in patients with type 1 diabetes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/46/a4/zdb1285.PMC2874688.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5313526", "abstract": "Meningitis is a common central nervous system (CNS) complication of the mumps, a viral infection, but encephalitis and meningoencephalitis are less common in mumps. We describe magnetic resonance imaging findings of acute mumps meningoencephalitis in a 32-year-old male who showed bilateral hippocampal lesions without preceding parotitis. Although it is rare, hippocampal involvement should be considered a CNS complication of mumps infection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/62/kjr-18-378.PMC5313526.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3169964", "abstract": "Objective: To perform a time-trend analysis of adherence and cost of antihypertensive treatment over four years. Methods: A population-based retrospective cohort study was conducted. We included subjects ≥18 years, and newly treated for hypertension with diuretics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers between 01 January 2004 and 31 December 2007. One-year adherence to antihypertensive therapy was calculated and classified as low, low-intermediate, intermediate, high-intermediate, and high. The direct cost of antihypertensive medications was evaluated. Results: We included data for a total of 105,512 patients. The number of newly treated subjects decreased from 27,334 in 2004 to 23,812 in 2007, as well as antihypertensive drug therapy cost which decreased from €2,654,166 in 2004 to €2,343,221 in 2007. On the other hand, in the same time frame, the percentage of adherent newly treated subjects increased from 22.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/86/PMC3169964.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4423318", "abstract": "Summary  Introduction: Stroke is considered one of the most frequent neurological causes of oropharyngeal dysphagia.   Aim: To determine the effect of cryostimulation on oropharyngeal sensitivity and, subsequently, on the swallowing reaction and premature escape of food in patients with neurogenic dysphagia after stroke.  Methods: Clinical and experimental study. The study enrolled 7 adult subjects, 6 men and 1 woman ranging from 28 to 64 years of age, with a diagnosis of stroke and current oropharyngeal dysphagia without any other underlying disease. The selected subjects underwent speech-language pathology evaluation and videofluoroscopic assessment of the dysphagia. The subjects were then treated with cryostimulation consisting of 10 applications to each structure (anterior faucial pillar, posterior oropharyngeal wall, soft palate, and back tongue) 3 times a day (for a total of 30 daily applications per structure) for 4 consecutive days. The patients were then re-evaluated based on the same criteria. The pre- and post-cryostimulation results of the clinical and videofluoroscopic evaluations were analyzed descriptively and statistically using Student's t-test and Fisher's exact test.   Results: Cryostimulation had beneficial effects on oropharyngeal sensitivity in 6 of the 7 subjects. There was also a significant improvement in swallowing and in the premature escape in six subjects.   Conclusion: Cryostimulation increased sensitivity and subsequently improved the swallowing reaction and premature escape of food in patients with neurogenic dysphagia after stroke. These effects were evident by both speech-language pathology and videofluoroscopic evaluation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c3/14/PMC4423318.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2867225", "abstract": "The food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) has been used as an important dietary assessment tool in epidemiologic studies, but the usefulness of the FFQ has been debated in recent years. This study was performed to evaluate the relative validities of 3-day food records and the semi-quantitative FFQ. A total of 124 subjects finished 3-day food records (FRs) during each of the four seasons, as well as the FFQ from December 2002 to May 2004. The FFQ was a food based semi-quantitative FFQ including 103 items. Three-day FRs from each season and a randomly selected season were compared with the remaining 9-day FRs. The remaining 9-day FRs, as a reference measurement, were also compared with the FFQ. Pearson's correlation coefficients between the 3-day FRs and the 9-day FRs were between 0.14 and 0.56. Pearson's correlation coefficients between the FFQ and the 9-day FRs ranged between 0.07 and 0.41. Average proportions of classification into the same quartiles, adjacent quartiles, and distant quartiles between the 3-day FRs and the 9-day FRs were 35.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fa/f8/nrp-4-142.PMC2867225.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4657099", "abstract": "The objective of this paper is to investigate the effects of liraglutide in combination with short-term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy on glycemic control and beta cell function in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Thirty-nine eligible newly diagnosed T2DM patients were recruited and randomized to receive either of two therapies: short-term CSII alone (CSII alone group) or CSII in combination with liraglutide (CSII + Lira group) for 12 weeks. Blood glucose control, homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) indices, and acute insulin response (AIR) were compared between the two groups. The patients in CSII + Lira group achieved euglycemia with equivalent insulin dosage in shorter time (1 (0) versus 2 (3) days, P = 0.039). HbA1c at the end of study was comparable between two groups (6.3 ± 0.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/4c/PMC4657099.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3016000", "abstract": "Background: The prevalence of gallstone disease in the community makes it an important area of service in district general hospitals. Laparoscopic surgical techniques in synergy with modern imaging and endoscopic and interventional techniques have revolutionized the treatment of gallstone disease, making it possible to provide prompt and definitive care to patients. Methods: Patients with gallstone disease were treated based on a predetermined protocol by a special-interest team depending on the patient's mode of presentation. Data were collected and analyzed prospectively. Results: Our team treated 1332 patients with gallstone disease between September 1999 and December 2007. Patients (249) with acute symptoms presented through Accident and Emergency (A   E). Despite varied presentations, laparoscopic treatment was possible in all but 8 patients. The study comprised 696 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) as in-hospital (23 hour) cases in a stand-alone center, and 257 outpatients and 379 inpatients. Sixty-seven patients with acute cholecystitis had their surgery within 96 hours of acute presentation. Seventy patients had laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy. The overall morbidity was 2.33", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/16/jsls-12-4-389.PMC3016000.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3021743", "abstract": "Combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CC) is a rare form of primary liver cancer composed of cells with histopathologic features of both hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CC). Because of its low incidence, the information on clinical outcomes of cHCC-CC is very limited and there are no published reports describing non-surgical treatment options for cHCC-CC. We report a case of cHCC-CC exhibiting a favorable response to systemic chemotherapy with doxorubicin and cisplatin. A 62-year-old man who recurred after a right lobectomy for cHCC-CC received sorafenib for palliative systemic therapy, but follow up imaging studies showed disease progression. He received 2nd line chemotherapy with doxorubicin at 60 mg/m2 together with cisplatin at 70 mg/m2. After 2 cycles of chemotherapy, a computed tomography scan of the chest showed markedly decreased size and number of the multiple lung metastases. After completing 8 cycles of 2nd line therapy, we changed the regimen to a fluorouracil (5-FU) mono therapy because of the toxicities associated with doxorubicin and cisplatin. To date, the patient has completed his 15th cycle of 5-FU mono therapy with the disease status remaining stable during 18 months of follow-up.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/d7/crt-42-235.PMC3021743.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4350044", "abstract": "Introduction: Acute Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) infection is common in the developing countries among children, but hydrops of gallbladder due to hepatitis A infection is an uncommon presentation. Case Presentation: A five-year-old boy was admitted in Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran due to jaundice and severe abdominal pain for 10 days. Physical examination revealed a mass in the right upper quadrant with severe tenderness. Liver function tests were abnormal while other laboratory data such as blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, sodium, and potassium were within the normal range. Blood and urine cultures were negative. Abdominal ultrasonography showed that the gallbladder was very much distended and its fundus was near the iliac crest. Hydrops of the gallbladder was diagnosed. HAV IgM titer was high. After five days, without any specific treatment, his symptoms improved and he was discharged with good condition. Conclusions: Acute acalculous gallbladder disease is a rare complication of HAV infection which should be suspected in any child with right upper quadrant abdominal pain, tenderness, and mass which can lead to surgical emergency in rare conditions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/87/1c/jjm-08-01-15779.PMC4350044.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2789961", "abstract": "The purpose of this paper was to report a successful treatment of transluminal Nd:YAG laser embolysis (NYE) for branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) with visible emboli. Two patients with acute, severe vision loss secondary to a branch retinal artery occlusion with visible emboli in one eye underwent NYE. A complete ocular examination was performed which included biomicroscopy of the posterior pole of the retina, intraocular pressure measurement, fundus color photographs, and fluorescein angiography (FA). After the NYE, the two patients showed dramatic improvements in best-corrected visual acuity, as well as, immediate and dramatic restorations in flow past the obstructed arteriole in FA. NYE is a treatment modality to be considered in patients with BRAO who present acutely with severe vision loss and a visible embolus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/93/kjo-23-315.PMC2789961.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2688110", "abstract": "Early identification of haemodynamic shock is widely acknowledged as a vital step towards improving survival. A report in the previous issue of Critical Care describes the relationship between lactate concentrations in blood samples analysed in the prehospital environment and subsequent hospital mortality. These preliminary data indicate a promising avenue of research into the treatment of haemodynamic shock. Larger observational and interventional trials are needed to confirm the clinical value of serum lactate measurement in the prehospital environment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/42/2c/PMC2688110.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4993617", "abstract": "Study Design   Retrospective study. Objective   This study reviews 1,768 consecutive cervical decompressions with or without instrumented fusion to identify patient-specific and procedural risk factors significantly correlated with the development of delayed cervical palsy (DCP). Methods   Baseline demographic and procedural information was collected from the electronic medical record. Particular attention was devoted to reviewing each chart for recognized risk factors of postsurgical inflammatory neuropathy: autoimmune disease, blood transfusions, diabetes, and smoking. Results   Of 1,669 patients, 56 (3.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6e/8e/PMC4993617.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3142626", "abstract": "Association between transforming growth factor beta-1 gene (TGFB1) 869T/C polymorphism and hypertension has been widely evaluated, yet with conflicting results. As meta-analysis is a reliable way to resolve discrepancies; I aimed to evaluate this association. Data were available from 9 study populations involving 6151 subjects. Overall, comparison of allele 869C with 869T generated a significant 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/65/59/PMC3142626.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4348048", "abstract": "Objective This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a new device (Eyedrop®) designed for eye drop instillation in patients with and without glaucoma. Methods This prospective study included consecutive patients with glaucoma and healthy participants. After a complete eye examination and determination of baseline intraocular pressure (IOP), topical hypotensive medication was introduced in both eyes, and the Eyedrop® delivery device (a plastic device in which the bottle with eye drops is inserted) was made available to all participants (with video and written instructions) for use in one eye, randomly chosen. In the second phase, all patients were evaluated by an experienced examiner for IOP determination, investigation of possible associated side effects, and ease of instilling eye drops (by a visual analog scale [VAS]; 0–10). Results Thirty two participants (mean age 42.3±16.2 years) were evaluated. Of these, 44", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cf/27/opth-9-367.PMC4348048.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5413211", "abstract": "Introduction Whilst pericardial effusion is a known complication of abdominal pathology, it is rarely reported following ruptured appendicitis and even more rarely requires drainage in that situation. This work has been reported in line with the SCARE criteria (Agha et al., 2016). Presentation of case We report a 14-year-old male who developed extensive right hepatorenal and right paracolic abscesses, bilateral pleural effusions and a large pericardial effusion following laparoscopic appendicectomy. Due to the size of the effusion, thoracoscopic pericardotomy was required. Discussion Pericardial effusion is a very rare complication of advanced appendicitis despite a demonstrable connection between the retroperitoneum and the mediastinum. Only two cases were reported in our literature search. There is no consensus as to whether percutaneous drainage or pericardiotomy is the treatment of choice. Conclusion The report is presented as a reminder of a rare complication of a common general surgical condition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/bc/main.PMC5413211.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4782618", "abstract": "A framework for automated detection and classification of cancer from microscopic biopsy images using clinically significant and biologically interpretable features is proposed and examined. The various stages involved in the proposed methodology include enhancement of microscopic images, segmentation of background cells, features extraction, and finally the classification. An appropriate and efficient method is employed in each of the design steps of the proposed framework after making a comparative analysis of commonly used method in each category. For highlighting the details of the tissue and structures, the contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization approach is used. For the segmentation of background cells, k-means segmentation algorithm is used because it performs better in comparison to other commonly used segmentation methods. In feature extraction phase, it is proposed to extract various biologically interpretable and clinically significant shapes as well as morphology based features from the segmented images. These include gray level texture features, color based features, color gray level texture features, Law's Texture Energy based features, Tamura's features, and wavelet features. Finally, the K-nearest neighborhood method is used for classification of images into normal and cancerous categories because it is performing better in comparison to other commonly used methods for this application. The performance of the proposed framework is evaluated using well-known parameters for four fundamental tissues (connective, epithelial, muscular, and nervous) of randomly selected 1000 microscopic biopsy images.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0e/2f/PMC4782618.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3745956", "abstract": " Purpose. This study examines the effects of fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) procedure on ocular pulse amplitude (OPA) and intraocular pressure (IOP).  Materials and Methods. Sixty eyes of 30 nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy patients (15 males, 15 females) were included in this cross-sectional case series. IOP and OPA were measured with the Pascal dynamic contour tonometer before and after 5 minutes of intravenous fluorescein dye injection.  Results. Pre-FFA mean OPA value was 3.05 ± 1.36 mmHg and post-FFA mean OPA value was 2.93 ± 1.28 mmHg (P = 0.071). Pre-FFA mean IOP value was 17.97 ± 1.99 mmHg and post-FFA mean IOP value was 17.81 ± 2.22 mmHg (P = 0.407).  Conclusion. Although both mean OPA and IOP values were decreased after FFA procedure, the difference was not statistically significant. This clinical trial is registered with Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number ACTRN12613000433707.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/ac/PMC3745956.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4918732", "abstract": "Background Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most common type of medication used in the treatment of acute pain. Ketorolac trometamol (KT) is a nonnarcotic, peripherally acting nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug with analgesic effects comparable to certain opioids. Objective The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of KT and naproxen (NA) in the treatment of acute low back pain (LBP) of moderate-to-severe intensity. Patients and methods In this 10-day, Phase III, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, noninferiority trial, participants with acute LBP of moderate-to-severe intensity as determined through a visual analog scale (VAS) were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive sublingual KT 10 mg three times daily or oral NA 250 mg three times daily. From the second to the fifth day of treatment, if patient had VAS >40 mm, increased dosage to four times per day was allowed. The primary end point was the reduction in LBP as measured by VAS. We also performed a post hoc superiority analysis. Results KT was not inferior to NA for the reduction in LBP over 5 days of use as measured by VAS scores (P=0.608 for equality of variance; P=0.321 for equality of means) and by the Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire (P=0.180 for equality of variance test; P=0.446 for equality of means) using 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/65/c0/dddt-10-1987.PMC4918732.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4417994", "abstract": "Immune response is modulated by different substances that are present in the environment. Nevertheless, some of these may cause an immunotoxic effect. In this paper, the effect of organophosphorus pesticides (frequent substances spilled in aquatic ecosystems) on the immune system of fishes and in immunotoxicology is reviewed. Furthermore, some cellular and molecular mechanisms that might be involved in immunoregulation mechanisms of organophosphorus pesticides are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/f8/PMC4417994.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5192299", "abstract": "Mobile phone applications may enhance the delivery of critical health services and the accuracy of health service data. Yet, the opinions and experiences of frontline health workers on using mobile apps to track pregnant and recently delivered women are underreported. This evaluation qualitatively assessed the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of a mobile Client Data App for maternal, neonatal, and child client data management by community health nurses (CHNs) in rural Ghana. The mobile app enabled CHNs to enter, summarize, and query client data. It also sent visit reminders for clients and provided a mechanism to report level of care to district officers. Fourteen interviews and two focus groups with CHNs, midwives, and district health officers were conducted, coded, and thematically analyzed. Results indicated that the app was easily integrated into care, improved CHN productivity, and was acceptable due to its capacity to facilitate client follow-up, data reporting, and decision-making. However, the feasibility and usability of the app were hindered by high client volumes, staff shortages, and software and device challenges. Successful integration of mobile client data apps for frontline health workers in rural and resource-poor settings requires real-time monitoring, program investments, and targeted changes in human resources. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/df/b5/PMC5192299.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3341989", "abstract": "The induction of immune tolerance by specific agents, as opposed to general immune suppression, is a most desirable goal in transplantation biology. One approach to attain this goal is afforded by the use of donor-derived cells endowed with veto activity, which is the ability of a cell to specifically suppress only T cells directed against its antigens. A megadose of purified veto CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells is already used in patients to allow hematopoietic stem cells transplantation (HSCT) across major genetic barriers, while avoiding severe graft versus host disease (GVHD). However, allowing engraftment of such T cell-depleted HSCT under safer reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) protocols still remains a challenge. Therefore, combining megadose of CD34+ HSCT with other GVHD-depleted veto cells could enable facilitation of engraftment of HSCT under RIC without the adverse complication of GVHD. This approach might provide a safer modality for enabling engraftment of HSCT, enabling its application in elderly patients who cannot tolerate intensive protocols and to a variety of patients with non-malignant disorders, associated with longer life expectancy, in whom the use of a high risk conditioning cannot be considered.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1b/bb/fimmu-03-00093.PMC3341989.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3130893", "abstract": "Central nervous system demyelinating processes such as multiple sclerosis and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis constitute a group of diseases not completely understood in their physiopathology. Environmental and toxic insults are thought to play a role in priming autoimmunity. The aim of the present report is to describe a case of acute demyelinating disease with fatal outcome occurring 15 days after oral exposure to herbal extracts.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c7/74/crn0003-0141.PMC3130893.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2948888", "abstract": "Breast cancer is a growing concern in low- and middle-income countries (LMCs). We explore community health worker (CHW) programs and describe their potential use in LMCs. We use South Africa as an example of how CHWs could improve access to breast health care because of its middle-income status, existing cancer centers, and history of CHW programs. CHWs could assume three main roles along the cancer control continuum: health education, screening, and patient navigation. By raising awareness about breast cancer through education, women are more likely to undergo screening. Many more women can be screened resulting in earlier-stage disease if CHWs are trained to perform clinical breast exams. As patient navigators, CHWs can guide women through the screening and treatment process. It is suggested that these roles be combined within existing CHW programs to maximize resources and improve breast cancer outcomes in LMCs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/70/78/PMC2948888.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2893847", "abstract": "The effect of illumination on the hydrofluoric acid etching of AlAs sacrificial layers with systematically varied thicknesses in order to release and roll up InGaAs/GaAs bilayers was studied. For thicknesses of AlAs below 10 nm, there were two etching regimes for the area under illumination: one at low illumination intensities, in which the etching and releasing proceeds as expected and one at higher intensities in which the etching and any releasing are completely suppressed. The “etch suppression” area is well defined by the illumination spot, a feature that can be used to create heterogeneously etched regions with a high degree of control, shown here on patterned samples. Together with the studied self-limitation effect, the technique offers a way to determine the position of rolled-up micro- and nanotubes independently from the predefined lithographic pattern.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/99/8b/PMC2893847.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4697957", "abstract": "Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the associations between lag times following occupational low back injury and the length of work disability. Methods: In a retrospective cohort study using workers’ compensation claims, random effects Tobit models were used to explore how disability length relates to three lag times: the number of days from the date of injury to reporting the injury, the number of days from the date of injury to medical care, and the number of days from the date of injury to initiating work disability. Results: In general, shorter lag times for each of the different lags were related to shorter lengths of disability. Conclusions: Decreasing the length of the lag times in reporting injuries, receiving medical care, and missing work may help to decrease the length of work disability for workers after low back injury.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/70/joem-58-53.PMC4697957.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4433972", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether neuromuscular joint facilitation (NJF) training is superior to NJF distal resistance training at improving the ROM and proprioceptive acuity of the neck. [Subjects] 10 healthy subjects (8 males, 2 females) participated in this study. [Methods] The participants were allocated to three groups: 10 in the control group, 10 in the NJF distal resistance training group, and 10 in the NJF training group. A miniature wireless motion recorder was used to record the maximum cervical range of motion and joint position error (JPE) before and after the interventions. The three interventions were tested on different days. [Results] No difference of ROM was observed among the three groups. A significant pre- to post-intervention decrease in JPE in extension was identified in the NJF group. No other significant differences were observed among the three groups. [Conclusion] The NJF training conferred remarkable benefits on the cervical JPE of healthy people. This result suggests that the best way to improve proprioceptive acuity is intervention together with proximal resistance training, such as NJF training.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c8/c0/jpts-27-1041.PMC4433972.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3580452", "abstract": "Epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) can be used to investigate links between early life environment, epigenetics and disease. However, such studies raise the question of which came first: the mark or the malady? A recent study has demonstrated that EWAS can be performed on neonatal 'Guthrie' heel-prick blood spots. As Guthrie cards are collected from all newborn infants and stored indefinitely in many countries, they represent an important timepoint to compare with later disease-associated epigenetic marks.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e9/75/PMC3580452.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4011414", "abstract": "Harlequin ichthyosis is a rare and the most severe form of congenital ichthyosis. Although prenatal diagnosis isdifficult for this disorder, recently, this obstacle has markedly improved with the use of DNA-based prenataldiagnosis. Here in, we presented a neonate with harlequin ichthyosis born by assisted reproductive technology(ART). In this case, the diagnosis of harlequin ichthyosis was not established by conventional prenatal screening.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/16/b6/mjiri-27-229.PMC4011414.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3463930", "abstract": "Understanding the developmental origins of congenital capabilities such as sucking is fundamental knowledge that can contribute to improving the clinical management of early feeding and facilitate the onset of oral ingestion. We describe analyses in rats showing that sensory stimulation in utero and during birth establishes the newborn's sucking responses to maternal cues. We mimicked elements of labor and delivery (viz., compressions simulating labor contractions, stroking simulating postnatal maternal licking of the newborn, and postnatal thermal flux), and used them to induce postnatal respiration and nipple attachment in caesarian-delivered pups. We report herein new data showing that, by simulating a fetal rat's experience of being born, specific components of vaginal birth provide sufficient conditions for the odor learning that guides newborn's sucking responses. In contrast, the absence of in utero compressions was associated with poor sucking onset. Knowing how birth stimuli contribute to the first nipple attachment and constitute a context for learning to suckle is an important step toward better management of some early feeding problems. It can serve also as a foundation for understanding the challenges of facilitating sucking by babies born prematurely so that they do not experience the typical contingencies mediating onset of oral ingestion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/b2/PMC3463930.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4819302", "abstract": "Background: Patient trust in physicians, which can be considered a collective good, is necessary for an effective health care system. However, there is a widespread concern that patient trust in physicians is declining under various threats to the physician–patient relationship worldwide. This article aimed to assess patient trust in physicians through a quantitative study in Shanghai, China, and to provide appropriate suggestions for improving the trust in China. Methods: The data from a survey conducted in Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, which are two tertiary public hospitals in Shanghai, were used in this study. Patient trust in physicians was the dependent variable. Furthermore, a 10-item scale was used to precisely describe the dependent variable. The demographic characteristics were independent variables of trust in physicians. Binomial logistic regression was employed to analyze the factors associated with the dependent variable, which was divided into two categories on the basis of the responses (1: Strongly agree or agree and 0: Strongly disagree, disagree, or neutral). Results: This study found that 67", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/bd/CMJ-129-814.PMC4819302.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3129344", "abstract": "Amyloidosis is a heterogeneous group of diseases in which misfolding of extracellular proteins is the pathogenic factor. Light chain amyloidosis (AL) is the most common form of amyloidosis, and the causative proteins in AL are the immunoglobulin light chains produced by clonal plasma cells. Hemorrhagic events, ranging from mild subcutaneous hemorrhage to life-threatening bleeding, account for a significant proportion of morbidities and mortality in AL patients. Deficiency of factor X from deposition into amyloid fibrils has been reported to be the most common acquired factor deficiency in AL. We herein report 2 patients with acquired factor X deficiency in AL. A 55-yr-old woman with AL had a prolonged prothrombin time (PT) and an activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) of 2.51 International Normalized Ratio (INR) and 75.1 sec, respectively, which were corrected on mixing with normal plasma. Factor X activity was markedly decreased at 5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/91/kjlm-31-154.PMC3129344.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4352678", "abstract": "The role of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients presenting with mild manifestations of heart failure (HF), depressed left ventricular ejection fraction (LV EF), and wide QRS complex, has been addressed in four previous trials: MIRACLE ICD II,1 MADIT-CRT,2 RAFT,3 and REVERSE.4 The consistent observed benefits in reverse cardiac remodelling and reduction of heart failure adverse events have resulted in guideline recommendations for CRT in NYHA Class II patients. The guidelines also recommend further studies to determine whether survival is increased by CRT in patients with mild symptoms. The 5-year analysis of the REsynchronization reVErses Remodeling Systolic left vEntricular (REVERSE) trial, which was designed prospectively for 5-year follow-up to specifically assess the long term benefits of CRT, were recently published in the European Heart Journal.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/38/80/PMC4352678.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5173508", "abstract": "Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is characterized by segmental vasospasm and it is often accompanied by either posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome or stroke. However, other MRI abnormalities have rarely been reported. A 28-year-old woman presented with a thunderclap headache immediately after delivery; MRI showed segmental vasoconstriction and an abnormal signal in the splenium of the corpus callosum. Neuroimaging abnormalities normalized 20 days after the first examination. Only two cases of RCVS with transient splenial lesions (TSL) have so far been reported. Both cases occurred postpartum like ours, indicating that delivery may be a trigger for the development of both TSLs and RCVS. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/08/1349-7235-55-3357.PMC5173508.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3595643", "abstract": "Background This study sought to determine the level of adherence to Coartem© in the routine treatment of uncomplicated malaria among children under the age of five years in Nyando district, Kenya. Methods: Seventy-three children below the age of five years with microscopically confirmed uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria and prescribed Coartem® during the normal outpatient department hours were included into the study on 27th of April to 15th of May 2009. Adherence was assessed through a semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire; pill count and blister pack recovery. Patients were then classified into three categories of adherence. Patients who had tablets remaining in the blister pack were classified as definitely non-adherent. Those who had blister pack missing or empty and the caretaker did not report administering all the doses at the correct time and amount were considered probably non-adherent or as probably adherent when the caretaker reported administering all doses at the correct time and amount. Results: Nine (14.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d8/78/ijph-42-129.PMC3595643.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3005466", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of adding pharmacists to primary care teams on the management of hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We conducted a randomized controlled trial with blinded ascertainment of outcomes within primary care clinics in Edmonton, Canada. Pharmacists performed medication assessments and limited history and physical examinations and provided guideline-concordant recommendations to optimize medication management. Follow-up contact was completed as necessary. Control patients received usual care. The primary outcome was a ≥10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/9a/zdc20.PMC3005466.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897194", "abstract": "Cancer is a group of diseases which is categorized to differentiate into diverse cell types and move around in the body to sites of organogenesis that is key to the process of tumor genesis. All types of cancer fall into the group of malignant neoplastic diseases. In Bangladesh, cancer is now one of the foremost killer diseases and its personal, social, and economic bearing are huge. Plant-derived natural compounds (vincristine, vinblastine, etoposide, paclitaxel, camptothecin, topotecan, and irinotecan) are useful for the treatment of cancer. Since there is no extensive ethnobotanical research study in Bangladesh regarding the traditional uses of medicinal plants against neoplasms, therefore, a randomized ethnopharmacological surveys were carried out in 3 districts of Bangladesh to learn more about the usage of anticancer medicinal plants and their chemical constituents having antineoplastic activity. Comprehensive interviews were conducted to the folk medicine practitioners and medicinal plants as pointed out by them were photographed, collected, deposited, and identified at the Bangladesh National Herbarium. The various plant parts have been used by the healers which included whole plant, leaves, fruits, barks, roots, and seeds. This study evaluated considerable potential for discovery of novel compounds with less side effects in the management and prevention of malignancy in cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3c/7a/PMC4897194.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3887572", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Background Gagging can become a conditioned response that makes dental treatment difficult or impossible for both the individual and the dentist. The aim of this study is to report a 50 year old female and two children (15 and 11 years old) with exaggerated gag reflex referred to Faculty of Dentistry of Selçuk University. Methods During obtaining records, taking impression procedure was elicited the patients’ hypersensitive gagging reflex. Therefore, it was decided to administer intranasal midazolam to facilitate the taking of accurate dental impressions. After given verbal information about the procedure, 2.5 mg intranasal midazolam (Demizolam, Dem Medikal, Istanbul) were applied incrementally in both nostrils. Results Five minutes later; patients had no gagging reflex and allowed the clinician to take satisfying impressions. No serious adverse effects were observed and the patients remained cooperative during the entire procedure which was completed to the full satisfaction of all involved. The short absorption time and the fast relief process of anaesthetics transferred to the systemic circulatory system are important advantages of nasal application. Conclusions Intranasal midazolam may be very useful for the treatment of gag reflex probably effecting on the depression of upper airway reflex sensitivity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/af/jomr-04-e5.PMC3887572.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5067395", "abstract": "Brown tumor refers to a change of skeletones that develops as a complication of hyperparathyroidism. As osteoclast is activated to stimulate reabsorption and fibrosis of bone, it causes a cystic change of the bone. Parathyroid carcinoma is being reported as a tumor that induces primary hyperparathyroidism. It causes excessive secretion of the parathyroid hormone and increases the blood parathyroid hormone and calcium. Bone deformation due to brown tumor is known to be naturally recovered through the treatment for hyperparathyroidism. However, there is no clearly defined treatment for lesions that can induce pathological fractures developing in lower extremities. We experienced a case where brown tumor developed in the proximal femur of a 57-year-old female patient due to parathyroid carcinoma. In this case, spontaneous fracture occurred without any trauma, and it was cured by performing intramedullary nailing fixation and parathyroidectomy. We report the treatment results along with a literature review.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1f/5d/hp-28-173.PMC5067395.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4516081", "abstract": "Background: To compare the microtensile bond strength of resin cements to enamel and dentin and to determine the type of bond failure using stereomicroscope. Materials and Methods: In this in-vitro study 40 teeth were embedded in acrylic resin and divided into two main groups i.e., Group A for enamel and Group B for dentin. Each group is again subdivided into four subgroups, which are as follows; Subgroup 1 for Calibra resin cement, Subgroup 2 for Paracem, Subgroup 3 for Variolink II and Subgroup 4 for Rely X ARC. These resin cements were applied on enamel and dentin according to manufacturer’s instructions followed by incremental build-up of composite resin on the top of resin cements. Each tooth was sectioned perpendicular to the resin-substrate interface with a slow speed diamond saw under water cooling yielding sections of approximately 1 mm2. On an average, three sections from each tooth were used for testing. The beams obtained after sectioning were stressed to failure under tension in a custom made stainless steel forceps held in a universal testing machine (Lloyd) at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/min. Results were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance, independent t-test, and Tukey’s HSD post-hoc test. Results: Cements bonded to enamel substrates showed higher mean bond strength compared to dentin, which is statistically significant. Rely X ARC showed highest mean bond strength to both the substrates. Conclusion: There was a significant difference between the bond strength to enamel and dentin and, Rely X ARC resin cement showed higher bond strength compared with the other groups.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/ec/JIOH-7-43.PMC4516081.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3687402", "abstract": "Metastasis from serous carcinoma of the ovary usually occurs in the subdiaphragmatic region. Metastasis to the breast and/or axillary-intramammary lymph node is very rare. It usually occurs in advanced disease, and it is important to distinguish a primary breast cancer from an ovarian cancer metastasis since the management of these two entities is totally different. Here we present a patient with metastasis to the breast and intramammary lymph nodes from ovarian serous carcinoma 25 months after diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/48/WO-16-18653.PMC3687402.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3622466", "abstract": "Cerebral aging is a complex and heterogenous process related to a large variety of molecular changes involving multiple neuronal networks, due to alterations of neurons (synapses, axons, dendrites, etc), particularly affecting strategically important regions, such as hippocampus and prefrontal areas. A substantial proportion of nondemented, cognitively unimpaired elderly subjects show at least mild to moderate, and rarely even severe, Alzheimer-related lesions, probably representing asymptomatic preclinical Alzheimer's disease, and/or mixed pathologies. While the substrate of resilience to cognitive decline in the presence of abundant pathologies has been unclear, recent research has strengthened the concept of cognitive or brain reserve, based on neuroplasticity or the ability of the brain to manage or counteract age-related changes or pathologies by reorganizing its structure, connections, and functions via complex molecular pathways and mechanisms that are becoming increasingly better understood. Part of neuroplasticity is adult neurogenesis in specific areas of the brain, in particular the hippocampal formation important for memory function, the decline of which is common even in “healthy” aging. To obtain further insights into the mechanisms of brain plasticity and adult neurogenesis, as the basis for prevention and potential therapeutic options, is a major challenge of modern neurosciences.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a4/89/DialoguesClinNeurosci-15-29.PMC3622466.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC111182", "abstract": "Introduction Acetaminophen toxicity, which can lead to hepatotoxicity, is a burden on our health care system and contributes significantly to intensive care unit admissions and cost of hospitalization. The aim of our study was to determine the epidemiology of various types of acetaminophen poisoning and analyze their outcome compared with their admission characteristics. Methods We identified 93 consecutive patients, hospitalized for acetaminophen toxicity over a 52-month period from 1996 to 1999 in our urban county hospital. Retrospective case-control analysis was carried out using the data obtained from the medical records. Results Acetaminophen accounted for 7.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/db/57/PMC111182.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3070477", "abstract": "The exocrine pancreas has the greatest protein synthetic capacity of any mammalian organ and is challenged with the synthesis, processing and transporting a large load of digestive enzymes. Based on recent findings we present a hypothesis proposing that mutations in the digestive enzymes and environmental risks impacting the pancreas (i.e., alcohol abuse, smoking, metabolic disorders, and drugs) cause endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. We review recent findings showing that in normal pancreas the ER stress resulting from alcohol abuse leads to an adaptive unfolded protein response (UPR) allowing for maintenance of protein synthesis, processing, and transport. However, when key pathways necessary for the adaptive UPR are altered, the exocrine cell of the pancreas is unable to maintain these processes and cellular pathology results. These findings may explain why some individuals with alcohol abuse disorders develop organ injury and disease while most do not. Further, the findings allow us to hypothesize that the UPR in the exocrine pancreas adapts the protein synthetic machinery of the ER stress resulting from mutational and environmental stressors. When the ability of the UPR to adapt to the stressors is exceeded, pathologic pathways and disease develop.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f5/76/PMC3070477.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5241707", "abstract": "With the discovery of translesion synthesis DNA polymerases, great strides have been made in the last two decades in understanding the mode of replication of various DNA lesions in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. A database search indicated that approximately 2000 articles on this topic have been published in this period. This includes research involving genetic and structural studies as well as in vitro experiments using purified DNA polymerases and accessory proteins. It is a daunting task to comprehend this exciting and rapidly emerging area of research. Even so, as the majority of DNA damage occurs at 2′-deoxyguanosine residues, this perspective attempts to summarize a subset of this field, focusing on the most relevant eukaryotic DNA polymerases responsible for their bypass.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/77/59/PMC5241707.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3292389", "abstract": "Aim To characterize and compare total lung capacity (TLC) measured by plethysmography with high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), and to identify variables that predict the difference between the two modalities. Methods Fifty-nine consecutive patients referred for the evaluation of COPD were retrospectively reviewed. Patients underwent full pulmonary function testing and HRCT within 3 months. TLC was obtained by plethysmography as per American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society standards and by HRCT using custom software on 0.75 and 5 mm thick contiguous slices performed at full inspiration (TLC). Results TLC measured by plethysmography correlated with TLC measured by inspiratory HRCT (r = 0.92, P < 0.01). TLC measured by plethysmography was larger than that determined by inspiratory HRCT in most patients (mean of 6.46 ± 1.28 L and 5.34 ± 1.20 L respectively, P < 0.05). TLC measured by both plethysmography and HRCT correlated significantly with indices of airflow obstruction (forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity [FVC] and FVC", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/e1/PMC3292389.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4601205", "abstract": "Background: Women are seriously subjected to psychiatric diseases during pregnancy and depression is the most prevailing one among these diseases. There is a relation between the social support and depression in pregnancy whose predisposing factors are genetic, psychological, biological, environmental, and hormonal. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the frequency of depression symptoms, and its risk factors. Also it studied the correlation between social support and pregnancy depression. Patients and Methods: This research is a descriptive cross-sectional study. It was conducted on 266 pregnant women selected by simple random method from all pregnant women admitted at the Maternity Hospital of Trabzon, Turkey from May 21 to June 13, 2008. The data were collected with a questionnaire form, the Beck depression inventory (BDI), and the multidimensional scale of perceived social support (MSPSS). Results: The mean BDI score of the pregnant women was 11.12 ± 6.65. According to the BDI, 46.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/44/ircmj-17-09-16640.PMC4601205.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4858061", "abstract": "Drug–drug interactions can cause unanticipated patient morbidity and mortality. The consequences of drug–drug interactions can be especially severe when anticancer drugs are involved because of their narrow therapeutic index. Veterinary clinicians have traditionally been taught that drug–drug interactions result from alterations in drug metabolism, renal excretion or protein binding. More recently, drug–drug interactions resulting from inhibition of P‐glycoprotein‐mediated drug transport have been identified in both human and veterinary patients. Many drugs commonly used in veterinary patients are capable of inhibiting P‐glycoprotein function and thereby causing an interaction that results in severe chemotherapeutic drug toxicity. The intent of this review is to describe the mechanism and clinical implications of drug–drug interactions involving P‐glycoprotein and anticancer drugs. Equipped with this information, veterinarians can prevent serious drug–drug interactions by selecting alternate drugs or adjusting the dose of interacting drugs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c3/83/PMC4858061.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3357173", "abstract": "Idiopathic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) typically affects middle-aged males. To date, only one case of idiopathic CSC in a prepubertal subject has been reported. Atypical idiopathic CSC presentation may be challenging to diagnose. Exclusion of secondary causes of serous retinal detachment (SRD) is warranted. We describe the atypical case of a 12-year-old female with a circumscribed SRD that resolved spontaneously and with fluorescein angiography (FA) findings that were compatible with idiopathic CSC. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and systemic assessment were performed to exclude other etiologies. FA demonstrated multiple focal leaks in early phases, with subretinal leakage and pooling in late phases. OCT showed a localized circumscribed retinal detachment. Complete blood count was within normal limits. Serum cortisol was normal (22.1 μg/dl) and mean arterial blood pressure was 100/60 mm Hg, thereby excluding secondary causes of CSC. This is the second reported case of idiopathic CSC in a prepubertal female and the first one documented by FA and OCT, as well as other studies to exclude secondary causes. Albeit rare, idiopathic CSC should be considered in the differential diagnosis of SRD in this (prepubertal) age group, after excluding secondary ocular or systemic etiologies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/04/a4/cop-0003-0005.PMC3357173.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2913792", "abstract": "The role of exercise as a diagnostic or therapeutic tool in patients with a metabolic disease (MD) or neuromuscular disorder (NMD) is relatively underresearched. In this paper we describe the metabolic profiles during exercise in 13 children (9 boys, 4 girls, age 5–15 yrs) with a diagnosed MD or NMD. Graded cardiopulmonary exercise tests and/or a 90-min prolonged submaximal exercise test were performed. During exercise, respiratory gas-exchange and heart rate were monitored; blood and urine samples were collected for biochemical analysis at set time points. Several characteristics in our patient group were observed, which reflected the differences in pathophysiology of the various disorders. Metabolic profiles during exercises CPET and PXT seem helpful in the evaluation of patients with a MD or NMD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/85/47/PMC2913792.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2526528", "abstract": "Primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of bone (PLB) is rare, and generally presents as a single extensive and destructive bone lesion. Histopathologically, most cases present as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and T-cell lymphoma is rare. By contrast, multiple myeloma is a disease defined as the neoplastic proliferation of a single clone of plasma cells producing a monoclonal immunoglobulin. We report a case of multiple myeloma that developed during treatment of PLB in a type of T-cell. A 48-yr-old man was diagnosed as T-cell PLB, stage IE, 18 months ago. The patient received the chemoradiotherapy and salvage chemotherapy for PLB. However, the lymphoma progressed with generalized bone pain, and laboratory findings showed bicytopenia and acute renal failure. On bone marrow biopsy, the patient was diagnosed as having multiple myeloma newly developed with primary T-cell lymphoma of bone. In spite of chemotherapy, the patient died of renal failure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6a/2e/jkms-23-544.PMC2526528.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5054403", "abstract": "PBOND is a web server that predicts the conformation of the peptide bond between any two amino acids. PBOND classifies the peptide bonds into one out of four classes, namely cis imide (cis-Pro), cis amide (cis-nonPro), trans imide (trans-Pro) and trans amide (trans-nonPro). Moreover, for every prediction a reliability index is computed. The underlying structure of the server consists of three stages: (1) feature extraction, (2) feature selection and (3) peptide bond classification. PBOND can handle both single sequences as well as multiple sequences for batch processing. The predictions can either be directly downloaded from the web site or returned via e-mail. The PBOND web server is freely available at http://195.251.198.21/pbond.html.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/47/79/main.PMC5054403.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4736193", "abstract": "Recent years have seen accumulating evidence for the proposition that people process time by mapping it onto a linear spatial representation and automatically “project” themselves on an imagined mental time line. Here, we ask whether people can adopt the temporal perspective of another person when travelling through time. To elucidate similarities and differences between time travelling from one's own perspective or from the perspective of another person, we asked participants to mentally project themselves or someone else (i.e., a coexperimenter) to different time points. Three basic properties of mental time travel were manipulated: temporal location (i.e., where in time the travel originates: past, present, and future), motion direction (either backwards or forwards), and temporal duration (i.e., the distance to travel: one, three, or five years). We found that time travels originating in the present lasted longer in the self- than in the other-perspective. Moreover, for self-perspective, but not for other-perspective, time was differently scaled depending on where in time the travel originated. In contrast, when considering the direction and the duration of time travelling, no dissimilarities between the self- and the other-perspective emerged. These results suggest that self- and other-projection, despite some differences, share important similarities in structure. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/77/92/PMC4736193.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2238829", "abstract": "DDBJ (http://www.ddbj.nig.ac.jp) collected and released 1 880 115 entries or 1 134 086 245 bases in the period from July 2006 to June 2007. The released data contains the high-throughput cDNAs of cricket and high-quality draft genome of medaka among others. Our computer system has been upgraded since March 2007. Another new aspect is an efficient data retrieval tool that has recently been equipped and served at DDBJ. It is called All-round Retrieval for Sequence and Annotation, which enables the user to search for keywords also in the Feature/Qualifier of the International Nucleotide Sequence Database Collaboration (http://www.insdc.org/). We will also replace our home page with a more efficient one by the end of 2007.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/11/gkm889.PMC2238829.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2656218", "abstract": "Since the mid-1990s, insights obtained from electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography have transformed our understanding of how the most important ribozyme in the cell, the ribosome, catalyzes protein synthesis. This review provides a brief account of how this structural revolution came to pass, and the impact it has had on our understanding of how the ribosome decodes messenger RNAs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9d/92/PMC2656218.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4925394", "abstract": "Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) patients with severe left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction (those with a gradient of > 100 mm Hg) are at the highest risk of hemodynamic deterioration during pregnancy. Complications of HOCM include sudden cardiac death, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Physiological changes during pregnancy may induce these complications, affecting maternal and fetal health conditions. Therefore, close monitoring with appropriate management is essential for the well-being of both mother and fetus. We report on the case of a 27-year-old female patient with severe LVOT obstruction HOCM, pressure gradient (PG) of 125 mm Hg at resting, and 152 mm Hg induced by the Valsalva maneuver at 34 weeks gestation. This case showed how close monitoring using echocardiography and proper management during the course of pregnancy resulted in successful delivery in the patient with extremely high PG HOCM.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/56/jcu-24-158.PMC4925394.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2687616", "abstract": "Toothbrush swallowing is a rare event. Because no cases of spontaneous passage have been reported, prompt removal is recommended to prevent the development of complications. Most swallowed toothbrushes have been found in the esophagus or the stomach of affected patients, and there has been no previously reported case of a toothbrush in the colon. Here, we report a case of a swallowed toothbrush found in the ascending colon that caused a fistula between the right colon and the liver, with a complicating small hepatic abscess. This patient was successfully managed using exploratory laparotomy. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of a swallowed toothbrush found in the colon.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/82/79/PMC2687616.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3079535", "abstract": "An 18-year-old Japanese woman noticed a progressive appearance of nodules on both forearms and on the left cubital fossa and left thigh one year before her initial consultation at our department. Physical examination showed elastic hard, slightly elevated, shiny and yellowish to skin-colored nodules of 6 to 10 mm in size on her extremities. From laboratory and histopathological findings, nodular-type lichen myxedematosus was diagnosed and nodules showed complete remission following local injection of triamcinolone acetonide.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/89/76/cde0002-0195.PMC3079535.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3180669", "abstract": "An increasing number of children, usually with gastrointestinal symptoms, is diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis (EE), and a particular subset of these patients complains of airway manifestations. We present the case of a 2-year-old child with chronic dry cough in whom EE was found after a first diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) due to pathological 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring. Traditional allergologic tests were negative, while patch tests were diagnostic for cow's milk allergy. We discuss the intriguing relationship between GERD and EE and the use of patch test for the allergologic screening of patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/29/crg0005-0497.PMC3180669.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3603667", "abstract": "Gait variability, that is, fluctuations in movement during walking, is an indicator of walking function and has been associated with various adverse outcomes such as falls. In this paper, current research concerning gait variability in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) is discussed. It is well established that persons with MS have greater gait variability compared to age and gender matched controls without MS. The reasons for the increase in gait variability are not completely understood. Evidence indicates that disability level, assistive device use, attentional requirement, and fatigue are related to gait variability in persons with MS. Future research should address the time-evolving structure (i.e., temporal characteristics) of gait variability, the clinical importance of gait variability, and underlying mechanisms that drive gait variability in individuals with MS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e3/f2/PMC3603667.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4620678", "abstract": "Diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), bulimia, anorexia, and extrinsic alimentary factors may cause dental erosion (DE). The minimally invasive therapeutic attitude preserves the remaining healthy tooth structure. In the earlier stages, the direct restoration of dental lesions is possible, using composite materials. In advanced stages of DE, prosthetic treatments are recommended for stable esthetic and functional results. We present a case of DE in a partially edentulous patient who benefited from a complex therapy. The prosthetic project of the case involves ceramic veneers associated with dental and implant supported fixed prosthesis for the restoration of esthetics, mastication, phonetics and their maintenance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/0c/cm8704p284.PMC4620678.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2966711", "abstract": "Acute mesenteric ischemia and infarction is an emergent situation associated with high mortality, commonly due to emboli or thrombosis of the mesenteric arteries. Embolism to the mesenteric arteries is most frequently due to a dislodged thrombus from the left atrium, left ventricle, or cardiac valves. We report a case of 70-year-old female patient with an acute small bowel infarction due to a mesenteric artery embolism dislodged from a left atrial appendage detected by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography and followed by anticoagulation therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/de/89/kjae-59-279.PMC2966711.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2952898", "abstract": "This timely review primarily addresses important but presently undefined microbial risks to public health and to the natural environment. It specifically focuses on current knowledge, future outlooks and offers some potential alleviation strategies that may reduce or eliminate the risk of problematic microbes in their viable but nonculturable (VBNC) state and Cryptosporidium oocysts in the aquatic environment. As emphasis is placed on water quality, particularly surrounding efficacy of decontamination at the wastewater treatment plant level, this review also touches upon other related emerging issues, namely, the fate and potential ecotoxicological impact of untreated antibiotics and other pharmaceutically active compounds in water. Deciphering best published data has elucidated gaps between science and policy that will help stakeholders work towards the European Union's Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC), which provides an ambitious legislative framework for water quality improvements within its region and seeks to restore all water bodies to “good ecological status” by 2015. Future effective risk-based assessment and management, post definition of the plethora of dynamic inter-related factors governing the occurrence, persistence and/or control of these presently undefined hazards in water will also demand exploiting and harnessing tangential advances in allied disciplines such as mathematical and computer modeling that will permit efficient data generation and transparent reporting to be undertaken by well-balanced consortia of stakeholders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/57/33/PMC2952898.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5289237", "abstract": "The baboon model of Bordetella pertussis infection is the newest and most clinically accurate model of the human disease to date. However, among the 15 experimentally infected baboons in this study, a subset of baboons did not exhibit the expected high bacterial colonization levels or increase in white blood cell count. Moreover, cultures of nasopharyngeal wash samples from several baboons suggested B. bronchiseptica coinfection. Analysis of serum antibodies recognizing filamentous hemagglutinin, pertussis toxin and B. pertussis lipo-oligosaccharide indicated that several baboons had likely been previously exposed to Bordetella species and that prior exposure correlated with partial protection from B. pertussis infection. Notably, all animals with a baseline Fha titer of 5 IU/ml or below exhibited symptoms typical of the model, suggesting this value can be used as inclusion criteria for animals prior to study enrollment. While B. pertussis infection is endemic to human populations and B. bronchiseptica is common in wild small mammals, this study illustrates that baboons can readily harbor both organisms. Awareness of Bordetella species that share antigens capable of generating protective immune responses and tracking of prior exposure to those species is required for successful use of the baboon model of pertussis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/a0/jvms-79-060.PMC5289237.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3413834", "abstract": "Postpneumonectomy empyema is a life-threatening complication, which is often related with a bronchopleural fistula. After surgical repair of fistula, sterilization of infected pleural cavity is important and usually carried out by long-term cyclic irrigation. We report a case in which vacuum-assisted closure device was successfully applied to sterilize the pleural cavity and obliterate bronchopleural fistula.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/21/kjtcs-45-260.PMC3413834.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5011571", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of hypothyroidism on femoral cartilage thickness by using ultrasound, which has been found to be useful in the early diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis. [Subjects and Methods] Forty patients diagnosed with hypothyroidism and 30 age-, gender-, smoking status, physical activity-, and body mass index-matched healthy subjects were enrolled. The thickness of the femoral articular cartilage was measured using a 7- to 12-MHz linear probe. Three mid-point measurements were taken from each knee at the lateral condyle, intercondylar area, and medial condyle. [Results] Age, gender, body mass index, smoking status, and physical activity were similar between the groups, but patients with hypothyroidism had thinner femoral cartilage than the healthy controls at all measurement sites. Nonetheless, the differences were not statistically significant (except in the case of the left medial condyle). [Conclusion] Ultrasonographic measurement of femoral cartilage thickness may be useful in the early diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis in patients with hypothyroidism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/73/jpts-28-2249.PMC5011571.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5364781", "abstract": "Introduction: Thyroid gland diseases in children are in second place by frequency among all endocrine disorders. When interpreting the results of the thyroid function assessment it should be taken into account the significant differences in the concentrations of TSH, thyroid hormones, thyroid binding proteins and calcitonin among children of different ages. Goal: To present the age and sex structure of the patients diagnosed with hypothyroidism, evaluate diagnostic methods for making diagnosis, evaluation of etiology of hypothyroidism, with special review of the therapeutic modality. Patients and methods: The study have retrospective character and includes all patients who have the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, but at the moment of data collection were aged 0-18 years. Results: Distribution of patients on the basis of gender, revealed more significant representation of female (65.93", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/49/MA-71-62.PMC5364781.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3320753", "abstract": "Objective Zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) under composite restorations should be covered with a suitable material in order to prevent the harmful effect of ZOE on the composite. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate microleakage of composite restorations in pulpotomized primary molars with different bases for covering the ZOE layer and to assess the distance between different layers. Materials and Methods Proximo-occlusal cavities were prepared in 78 extracted second primary molars. Carious lesions were removed and pulpotomy was carried out. Zinc oxide eugenol paste was placed in 2-mm thickness. The teeth were randomly divided in 6 groups and restored as follows: 1. Light-cured composite; 2. Resin-modified glass-ionomer and composite resin; 3. Glass-ionomer and composite resin; 4. Light-cured calcium hydroxide and composite resin; 5. Calcium hydroxide and composite resin; 6. Amalgam and composite resin. The restored specimens were thermocycled for 500 cycles (5°C/55°C) and microleakage was assessed by dye penetration technique. Three specimens from each group were processed for scanning electron microscope evaluation to determine the distance between the layers. The results were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests. Results Microleakage assessment revealed significant differences between the groups (P=0.04), with the amalgam group exhibiting the lowest microleakage values. In SEM micrographs no significant differences were observed in the distance between ZOE base layers (P=0.94) and base-composite layers (P=0.47); however, the amalgam group had the lowest distances. Conclusion The use of amalgam over zinc oxide eugenol layer in pulpotomized primary molars decreases microleakage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0d/5d/jod-8-178.PMC3320753.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4301581", "abstract": "A facile magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) of aflatoxins (AFs) from liquid samples was developed using polydopamine-coated magnetic nanoparticles (PD-MNPs) as the adsorbent. PD-MNPs were prepared from amine-terminated MNPs and dopamine via an in situ oxidative self-polymerization approach. Under the selected MSPE conditions, extraction yields ranging from 59.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/df/da/PMC4301581.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3316977", "abstract": " Introduction. Sign and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis have circadian rhythms and are more prominent in the morning. Timing of glucocorticoid administration may be important with respect to the natural secretion of endogenous glucocorticoids. Herein, we intended to test the hypothesis that bedtime administration of prednisolone could be more efficient in controlling signs and symptoms in patients with RA. Material and Methods. Sixty patients with stable disease were treated with single dose prednisolone at 8 a.m. for the first three months and thereafter with similar dose at 10 PM for the next three months (before-after method). We compared fatigue scores, morning stiffness and pain scores, Clinical Disease Activity Indices, erythrocyte sedimentation rates, C Reactive Protein, and profile of adverse effects. Results. The mean of morning stiffness, fatigue scores, CRP and CDAI decreased statistically when prednisolone was administrated at 10 p.m. The means of pain scores and ESR were also decreased when the patients took prednisolone at night, without significant statistical difference. Conclusion. Administration of low-dose oral prednisolone could reduce disease activity scores in morning in clinically stable patients with RA. So it could be supposed that administrating bedtime prednisolone may permit the smallest possible dose.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/31/ca/PMC3316977.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2592754", "abstract": "In their article on the use of barbiturates for the treatment of intracranial hypertension after traumatic brain injury, Perez-Barcena and colleagues conclude that thiopental was more effective than pentobarbital in decreasing intracranial pressure. Here we discuss the limitations of this study and review areas of controversy surrounding barbiturate use in neurocritical care.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/12/45/PMC2592754.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3894512", "abstract": "Nephrotoxicity is the most common and clinically significant adverse effect of calcineurin inhibitors. Cyclosporine and tacrolimus nephrotoxicity is manifested by both acute azotemia and chronic progressive renal disease and tubular zdysfunction. An elevation in the plasma potassium concentration due to reduced efficiency of urinary potassium excretion is common in cyclosporine-treated patients; it may be severe and potentially life-threatening with concurrent administration of an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, which diminishes aldosterone release. Tubular injury induced by cyclosporine can also impair acid excretion. This may be presented as a hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis associated with decreased aldosterone activity and suppression of ammonium excretion by hyperkalemia. Some patients treated with cyclosporine develop hypophosphatemia due to urinary phosphate wasting. Renal magnesium wasting is also common presumably due to drug effects on magnesium reabsorption. Hypomagnesemia has also been implicated as a contributor to the nephrotoxicity associated with cyclosporine. Both cyclosporine and tacrolimus are associated with hypercalciuria. Attention must be paid to drug dose, side effects, and drug interactions to minimize toxicity and maximize efficacy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/04/08/PMC3894512.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4033547", "abstract": "Nuclear factor-κB is associated with the pathogenesis of numerous malignancies, and the functional polymorphism −94ins/del ATTG (rs28362491) in the human NFKB1 gene is associated with cancer risk. Previous studies on the association between the −94ins/del ATTG polymorphism and cancer risk reported conflicting results. To clarify this relationship, we performed a meta-analysis of 21 case-control studies involving 6127 cases and 9238 controls. We used pooled odds ratios (ORs) with their 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8d/3e/PMC4033547.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4925962", "abstract": " Background. Studies have suggested that hypothyroidism is more frequent in the elderly with diabetes mellitus. However, an adaptation of TSH levels to age should be considered in this assessment. Some antidiabetes drugs reportedly interfere with TSH levels. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of undiagnosed hypothyroidism in patients with diabetes and the influence of antidiabetes drugs. Material and Methods. 1160 subjects, 60 years and older (751 with diabetes), were studied; results were compared according to diabetes treatment and with persons without diabetes. TSH, FT4, antithyroperoxidase, fasting glucose, and HbA1c were measured. Results and Discussion. 6.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dc/a0/PMC4925962.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3886079", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objectives The purpose of the study was to establish the role of ultrasonography in determining the involvement of specific fascial spaces in maxillofacial region and the stage of infection, in indicating the appropriate time for surgical intervention and to compare clinical and ultrasonographic findings. Material and Methods Twenty five patients with fascial space infection in maxillofacial region were subjected to ultrasonographic examination following a detailed clinical and radiological examination. Ultrasonography guided needle aspiration was performed. Based on the findings, patients diagnosed with abscess were subjected to incision and drainage and those with cellulitis were subjected to medical line of treatment. Results More than one fascial space was involved in all patients. On clinical examination 64 spaces were involved, of them 34 spaces had abscess formation and 30 spaces were in the stage of cellulitis. On ultrasonography examination, 28 spaces were reported to have abscess formation and 36 spaces were diagnosed to be in the stage of cellulitis. On comparative analysis of both clinical and ultrasonographic findings, ultrasonography was found to be sensitive in 65", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a6/0b/jomr-02-e4.PMC3886079.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3518075", "abstract": "Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg bw) in all rats of five groups after being fed for 2 weeks high-fat diet. Type 2 diabetic Nerium-oleander- (NO-) administered groups received the NO distillate at a dose of 3.75, 37.5, and 375 μg/0.5 mL of distilled water (NO-0.1, NO-1, NO-10, resp.); positive control group had 0.6 mg glibenclamide/kg bw/d by gavage daily for 12 weeks. Type 2 diabetic negative control group had no treatment. NO distillate administration reduced fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, insulin resistance, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, atherogenic index, triglyceride-HDL ratio, insulin, and leptin levels. Improved beta cell function and HDL concentration were observed by NO usage. HDL percentage in total cholesterol of all NO groups was similar to healthy control. NO-10 distillate enhanced mRNA expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated-receptor- (PPAR-) α, β, and γ in adipose tissue and PPAR-α–γ in liver. The findings from both in vivo and in vitro studies suggest that the considerable beneficial effect of NO distillate administration at a dose of 375 μg/0.5 mL of distilled water may offer new approaches to treatment strategies that target both fat and glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/af/PMC3518075.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3065013", "abstract": "Branched RNAs with two and four strands were synthesized. These structures were used to obtain branched siRNA. The branched siRNA duplexes had similar inhibitory capacity as those of unmodified siRNA duplexes, as deduced from gene silencing experiments of the TNF-α protein. Branched RNAs are considered novel structures for siRNA technology, and they provide an innovative tool for specific gene inhibition. As the method described here is compatible with most RNA modifications described to date, these compounds may be further functionalized to obtain more potent siRNA derivatives and can be attached to suitable delivery systems.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/58/af/PMC3065013.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3981447", "abstract": "We are reporting on a household outbreak of measles, in which cases of simultaneous measles and chickenpox infection occured in children of a family who resided in Italy during the incubation period (June 2011). In three children, fever and generalized confluent macular rash were the dominant symptoms. Serology testing revealed simultaneous measles and chickenpox infection in four children.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/d2/PMC3981447.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3389524", "abstract": "Around 1923 the soon-to-be famous Soviet mathematician and probabilist Sergei N. Bernstein started to construct an axiomatic foundation of a theory of heredity. He began from the premise of stationarity (constancy of type proportions) from the first generation of offspring. This led him to derive the Mendelian coefficients of heredity. It appears that he had no direct influence on the subsequent development of population genetics. A basic assumption of Bernstein was that parents coupled randomly to produce offspring. This paper shows that a simple model of non-random mating, which nevertheless embodies a feature of the Hardy-Weinberg Law, can produce Mendelian coefficients of heredity while maintaining the population distribution. How W. Johannsen’s monograph influenced Bernstein is discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/b9/PMC3389524.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3964768", "abstract": " Objectives. To evaluate the effect of preeclampsia on the cord blood and maternal NRBC count and to correlate NRBC count and neonatal outcome in preeclampsia and control groups. Study Design. This is a prospective case control observational study. Patients and Methods. Maternal and cord blood NRBC counts were studied in 50 preeclamptic women and 50 healthy pregnant women. Using automated cell counter total leucocyte count was obtained and peripheral smear was prepared to obtain NRBC count. Corrected WBC count and NRBC count/100 leucocytes in maternal venous blood and in cord blood were compared between the 2 groups. Results. No significant differences were found in corrected WBC count in maternal and cord blood in cases and controls. Significant differences were found in mean cord blood NRBC count in preeclampsia and control groups (40.0 ± 85.1 and 5.9 ± 6.3, P = 0.006). The mean maternal NRBC count in two groups was 2.4 ± 9.0 and 0.8 ± 1.5, respectively (P = 0.214). Cord blood NRBC count cut off value ≤13 could rule out adverse neonatal outcome with a sensitivity of 63", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ee/38/PMC3964768.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4888159", "abstract": "Objectives: Probiotic approaches are being considered to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms and are an alternative and promising way to combat infections by using harmless bacteria to displace pathogenic microorganisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of commercially available freeze dried powdered probiotics on mutans streptococci count among 12–15 year-old Indian schoolchildren. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in two phases of in-vitro (phase I) and in-vivo (phase II) study, which was a double blind, randomized and placebo controlled clinical trial. A total of 33 schoolchildren between 12–15 years were included in the study. They were randomly allocated to three groups. Group A included 11 children using freeze dried Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium lactis. Group B included 11 children using freeze dried lactic acid bacillus only. Group C included 11 children using placebo powder. The study was conducted over a period of three weeks and examination and sampling of the subjects were done on days 0 (baseline), seven, 14 and 21. Results: For both the intervention groups A and B, statistically significant reduction (P<0.05) in salivary mutans streptococci counts was recorded up to the second week. Conclusion: Oral administration of probiotics showed a short-term effect on reduction of mutans streptococci count and showed a preventive role in caries development.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/70/PMC4888159.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3382358", "abstract": "The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is overexpressed in the vast majority of cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). A high EGFR expression is associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Cetuximab is a chimeric human/murine IgG1 antibody which binds with high affinity to the EGFR. It is the only targeted agent which got approval for the treatment of SCCHN from the regulatory agencies of Europe and the United States, both in locoregionally advanced disease, in association with radiation, and in recurrent/metastatic disease. The outcome of trials involving other EGFR-directed monoclonal antibodies, that is, zalutumumab and panitumumab, was consistent with the results with cetuximab. However these trials failed to meet their primary endpoint. The results with EGFR-directed tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been disappointing. Other potential targets for treatment in SCCHN include the entire ErbB family, the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor (VEGFR), the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), the insulin receptor (IR), histone deacetylases (HDAC), the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), the platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), heat-shock protein 90 (HSP90), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), aurora A or B, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PIK3CA).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d2/72/PMC3382358.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4492315", "abstract": "Metastatic carcinoma that causes appendicitis is extremely rare. To our knowledge, metastatic cholangiocarcinoma in the appendix has been reported in only 1 case in the English literature. We report herein the case of an 87-year-old woman who presented with abdominal pain and jaundice. Advanced cholangiocellular carcinoma and a proximal appendiceal mass with appendicitis were detected on contrast-enhanced computed tomography and positron emission tomography/computed tomography. After elective laparoscopic appendectomy and wedge resection of the cecum, pathologic results revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma from extrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinoma in the appendix.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/63/61/kjhbps-18-60.PMC4492315.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5075619", "abstract": "Thirty-five healthy subjects were randomly assigned to different doses of Salacia chinensis extract (200 mg, 300 mg, and 500 mg SCE) capsules and compared with placebo. It is a placebo controlled randomized crossover design study. Subjects were given oral sucrose solution along with capsules and plasma glucose and insulin responses were analyzed. Blood samples were collected at 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 minutes after administration. AUC insulin significantly lowered after ingestion of SCE. No significant adverse events were observed. Reducing glucose and insulin is very important in reducing postprandial hyperglycemia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/94/90/PMC5075619.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3394260", "abstract": "In the context of the renewed interest of peptides as therapeutics, it is important to have an on-line resource for 3D structure prediction of peptides with well-defined structures in aqueous solution. We present an updated version of PEP-FOLD allowing the treatment of both linear and disulphide bonded cyclic peptides with 9–36 amino acids. The server makes possible to define disulphide bonds and any residue–residue proximity under the guidance of the biologists. Using a benchmark of 34 cyclic peptides with one, two and three disulphide bonds, the best PEP-FOLD models deviate by an average RMS of 2.75 Å from the full NMR structures. Using a benchmark of 37 linear peptides, PEP-FOLD locates lowest-energy conformations deviating by 3 Å RMS from the NMR rigid cores. The evolution of PEP-FOLD comes as a new on-line service to supersede the previous server. The server is available at: http://bioserv.rpbs.univ-paris-diderot.fr/PEP-FOLD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/4e/gks419.PMC3394260.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4399541", "abstract": "Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree of microbial contamination in packaged gutta-percha cones before and during use in clinical conditions. Material and Methods: Sealed packages of #15-40 gutta-percha cones were opened under aseptic laboratory conditions. Two gutta-percha cones from each size were randomly drawn and added to tubes containing glass beads and 750 μL of saline. The tubes were vortexed, serially diluted and samples of 250 μL were cultured on agar plates. The plates were incubated at 37°C for 3 days and colonies were counted. The initially sampled packages were distributed to 12 final year dental students. The packages were collected at the end of the first and the third clinical practice days and sampled as described above. Results: Baseline microbial counts did not exceed 3 CFU. At the end of the first and the third day, additional contamination was found in five and three of the packages, respectively. The ratio of contaminated packages at the first day and the third day was not significantly different (z-test; p > 0.05). The numbers of microorganisms cultured at the first day (8 ± 9.9 CFU) and the third day (4.5 ± 8.3 CFU) were not significantly different (Wilcoxon signed-rank test; p > 0.05). No significant correlation was found between the number of filled root canals and cultured microorganisms at either the first day (Spearman's rho; r = 0.481, p = 0.113) or the third day (r = -0.034, p = 0.917). Conclusions: Gutta-percha cones taken directly from manufacturer's sealed package harbored microorganisms. Clinical use of the packages has been found to be associated with additional contamination of the gutta-percha cones. The counts of cultured microorganisms did not correlate well with the number of filled root canals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/95/1678-7757-jaos-17-03-0244.PMC4399541.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3671710", "abstract": " Objective. Aquaporin 5 plays an important role in maintaining inner ear water and fluid homeostasis. Since the aquaporin (AQP) 5 promoter-1364A/C polymorphism is associated with altered AQP5 expression and this could impact upon key mechanisms of Menière's disease, we tested the hypothesis that genotypes of the AQP5 promoter-1364A/C polymorphism are associated with the incidences of Menière's disease (MD), familial Menière's disease (FMD), or endolymphatic hydrops (EH). Methods. With approval of the local ethics committee, DNA of 102 patients (39 with MD, 54 with FMD, and 9 with EH) and of 292-matched Caucasian controls was isolated from blood samples and genotyped for the AQP 5 promoter-1364A/C polymorphism. The χ 2-test was applied to compare genotype distributions and allele frequencies between patients and controls. Results. Overall, genotype frequencies were not different between controls (AA 69", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cb/52/PMC3671710.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3560676", "abstract": "Summary Previous studies have revealed that the link between c-Myc and E2F1 pathway plays a pivotal role in regulating cell growth and death. Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), activation of which is required for cell immortalization and transformation, has been confirmed to be a direct transcriptional target of c-Myc. It is of note that E2F1, which is also a direct transcriptional target of c-Myc, can bind the hTERT promoter and repress its expression. Thus, although oncogene c-Myc can be activated in normal cells, for the subsequent induction of E2F1, it may still be insufficient to trigger the expression of hTERT. This negative feedback regulation, if it exists, may be another mechanism for normal cells to control the transmission of c-Myc-mediated oncogenic signals. In this article, we reviewed current knowledge about the crosstalk among c-Myc, E2F1 and hTERT, with an emphasis on the hypothesis that E2F1 negatively regulates c-Myc-induced hTERT transcription. Additionally, we postulated that the miR-17-92 cluster-mediated regulation of c-Myc and E2F1 expression may be of particular importance for the repression of hTERT transcription.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b2/d6/PMC3560676.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3759266", "abstract": " Objective. The main objective of the present investigation was to develop and optimize oral sustained release Chitosan nanoparticles (CNs) of rifampicin by design of experiment (DOE). Methodology. CNs were prepared by modified emulsion ionic gelation technique. Here, inclusion of hydrophobic drug moiety in the hydrophilic matrix of polymer is applied for rifampicin delivery using CN. The 23 full-factorial design was employed by selecting the independent variables such as Chitosan concentration (X 1), concentration of tripolyphosphate (X 2), and homogenization speed (X 3) in order to achieve desired particle size with maximum percent entrapment efficiency and drug loading. The design was validated by checkpoint analysis, and formulation was optimized using the desirability function. Results. Particle size, drug entrapment efficiency, and drug loading for the optimized batch were found to be 221.9 nm, 44.17 ± 1.98", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/c6/PMC3759266.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4309112", "abstract": "Background During the past decade, survival after in‐hospital cardiac arrest has improved markedly. It remains unknown whether the improvement in survival has occurred uniformly at all hospitals or was driven by large improvements at only a few hospitals. Methods and Results We identified 93 342 adults with an in‐hospital cardiac arrest at 231 hospitals in the Get With The Guidelines®‐Resuscitation registry during 2000–2010. Using hierarchical regression models, we evaluated hospital‐level trends in survival to discharge. Mean age was 66 years, 59", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/d2/jah3-3-e000871.PMC4309112.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2837302", "abstract": "Breast cancer family history has been known to be one of the main cancer risk factors. Members of high-risk families should be given recommendations which may improve prophylaxis, early diagnosis and treatment. Detection of high-risk families is possible by identification of mutations in cancer susceptibility genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 as well as by family history showing breast and/or ovary cancer aggregation. In a group of 521 breast cancer patients we identified 26 patients with hereditary breast cancer who fulfilled the following criteria: one more relative with breast cancer, vertical transmission, at least one breast cancer patient affected at the age under 50 years. 8 patients of these developed second primary breast cancer. We also compared the frequency of hereditary cancers in stage I-III with the frequency of respective cancers with negative family history. Hereditary breast cancers were diagnosed less frequently in stage I and more frequently in stage II and III (RR = 0.49, RR = 1.39, RR = 1.62, respectively). Because of importance of family history as well as genetic testing for breast cancer susceptibility genes (BRCA1/2), it is necessary to create a nationwide network of hereditary cancer clinics for proper diagnosis, treatment, and prophylaxis of these patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/20/PMC2837302.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2807067", "abstract": "Introduction Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is an inherited neuromuscular disorder which affects boys. Until recently the mean age of death was around 19 but there have been significant improvements in clinical management and they can now expect to live to around 25 years. Purpose To investigate, from their own perspectives, how the well-being of young men living with DMD, and that of their families, can be maximised, particularly at the transition to adulthood, and from children's to adult services. Theoretically, it drew on the social model of disability and recent critiques. It was an example of inclusive research, involving young men and a national family support group, as well as clinical services. Methods Postal survey of family carers in three regions followed by interviews with 40 young men age 15+ with DMD and their families about the issues they faced at transition to adulthood. Findings Family carers generally considered that transition planning at school leaving was poor or non-existent and that they lacked information about services. Once they had left school or college, the majority of young men lacked meaningful day time activities and friendship networks. There was good continuity of health care in one of the three regions. Conclusion Much effort has gone into producing policies and processes, with an uncritical assumption that this will lead to better outcomes. Sponsorship The study (2007–2009) was funded by the English Department of Health's long-term neurological conditions research programme.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/95/a7/PMC2807067.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649299", "abstract": "A 57 year old male patient presented to our hospital with vomiting, epigastric discomfort, and loss of appetite over a 24hr period. Subsequent investigations demonstrated a submucosal lesion causing gastric outlet obstruction. The patients deteriorating condition mandated laparotomy and a pathologic diagnosis was made of a pyloric submucosal fibroepithelial lesion from the resected distal stomach and adherent transverse colon; no malignant features were found. This is to our knowledge the first instance of a fibroepithelial neoplasm occurring within the gastrointestinal tract.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2c/56/PMC3649299.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3385593", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in bones quality between newly formed bone and cortical bone formed around titanium alloy implants by using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. As a result of narrow scan measurement at 4 weeks, the newly formed bone of C1s, P2p, O1s, and Ca2p were observed at a different peak range and strength compared with a cortical bone. At 8 weeks, the peak range and strength of newly formed bone were similar to those of cortical bone at C1s, P2p, and Ca2p, but not O1s. The results from this analysis indicate that the peaks and quantities of each element of newly formed bone were similar to those of cortical bone at 8 weeks, suggestive of a strong physicochemical resemblance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/02/28/PMC3385593.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3687463", "abstract": "The clinical course of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is highly heterogeneous. Gene expression analyses have revealed that leukemic cells with unmutated immunoglobulin heavy chain genes (IgV H) differ from CLL cells with mutated IgV H in the expression level of some genes, i.e. encoding kinase ZAP-70 and antigen CD38. Recently, additional markers in CLL, including the expression level of apoptosis-regulating genes/proteins (Bcl-2, Mcl-1) and microRNAs, have been suggested. In this review, we attempt to provide data concerning the properties of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), as well as to present its prognostic value in CLL. LPL mRNA expression level was able to predict mutational status in a high percentage of CLL cases and high LPL expression was associated with shorter treatment-free survival. Importantly, since LPL activity is low (or absent) in other blood cell types, its expression can be determined by PCR technique in peripheral blood mononuclear cells or in lysed blood samples.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/c4/WO-16-19948.PMC3687463.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4644966", "abstract": "Organizing hematoma of the paranasal sinuses is a diagnostic dilemma clinically and radiographically, mimicking benign or malignant neoplastic processes. Although the diagnostic rate of this disease has increased as characteristic imaging findings are somewhat elucidated, endoscopic examination, preoperative biopsy, and computed tomography (CT) imaging do not give helpful information in differentiating these lesions from malignant neoplastic processes. A 55-year-old man presented with a 4-month history of recurrent nasal bleeding. He also complained of a left-sided nasal obstruction. CT findings were highly suggestive of a malignant tumor of the maxillary sinus. However, based on fluorodeoxyglucose F18 positron-emission tomography (PET/CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the provisional diagnosis of benign tumor rather than malignancy was made. Complete resection of the mass was achieved by simple transnasal endoscopic surgery using the Caldwell-Luc approach. Organizing hematoma of the maxillary sinus was diagnosed by histopathologic evaluation. The clinical, radiological, and histopathologic findings of the patient are presented. In this report, we have presented 18FDG-PET findings of organized hematoma of the maxillary sinus (OHMS) that showed an increased FDG uptake in the peripheral rim of the mass with central photopenia. To our knowledge, this is the first case report in the literature reporting FDG-PET/CT findings of OHMS. Careful interpretation of metabolic (FDG-PET/CT) and anatomic (CT and MRI) images should be performed to accurately characterize the expansile lesion of the maxillary sinus in order to increase specificity and reduce equivocal findings significantly.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cf/f5/iranjradiol-12-04-18924.PMC4644966.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4905824", "abstract": "In isolated hepatocytes, the environmental estrogen bisphenol A (BPA) is metabolized into a mono-glucuronide and a glucuronide/sulfate diconjugate. Little is known about the fate of the diconjugate in the liver. The present study focused on the metabolism and dispostion of BPA diconjugate in the liver using a perfusion method. In Sprague-Dawley rats, BPA (15,150 or 1,500 nmol) was applied into the liver. In male rats, the infused BPA was conjugated to both glucuronide and a diconjugate during passage through the liver. The diconjugate was observed at high-dose application of the substrate. In female rats, the chemical was conjugated almost exclusively to the glucuronide in all doses utilized in this study. In both the male and female rats, the resultant metabolites were preferentially excreted into the bile. These results suggest that BPA is conjugated primarily to mono-glucuronide in rat liver; and that in males, diconjugate production occurs under conditions of high-dose exposure to BPA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/5b/jvms-78-733.PMC4905824.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4603715", "abstract": "Background Roflumilast is approved in the United States to reduce the risk of COPD exacerbations in patients with severe COPD. Exacerbation rates, health care resource utilization (HCRU), and costs were compared between roflumilast patients and those receiving other COPD maintenance drugs. Methods LifeLink™ Health Plan Claims Database was used to identify patients diagnosed with COPD who initiated roflumilast (roflumilast group) or ≥3 other COPD maintenance drugs (non-roflumilast group) from May 1, 2011 to December 31, 2012. Patients must have been enrolled for 12 months before (baseline) and 3 months after (postindex) the initiation date, ≥40 years old, not systemic corticosteroid dependent, and without asthma diagnosis at baseline. Difference-in-difference models compared change from baseline in exacerbations, HCRU (office, emergency visits, and hospitalizations), and total costs between groups, adjusting for baseline differences. Results A total of 14,211 patients (roflumilast, n=710; non-roflumilast, n=13,501) were included. During follow-up, the rate of overall exacerbations per patient per month decreased by 11.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/81/44/copd-10-2127.PMC4603715.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2784344", "abstract": "Research interest in epidural anesthesia during sepsis has grown over the past years and studies have tried to determine its mechanisms, which should, theoretically, protect organs and reduce morbidity and mortality. However, different experimental approaches in different animal models have provided conflicting results over whether epidural anesthesia has protective or harmful effects and whether these alter depending on the phase of sepsis, the spread of epidural anesthesia or additional supportive therapies. In the future, more standardized research is necessary to integrate the results of all studies, which have been published.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/34/4d/PMC2784344.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3891416", "abstract": "Tuberculosis remains prevalent in developing countries and has recently re-emerged in the Western world. Intra-abdominal tuberculosis can mimic a variety of other abdominal disorders, and here we describe a patient with solitary tuberculous mesenteric lymphadenopathy mimicking duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). A 22-year-old woman complained of epigastric discomfort and was presumed to have a duodenal GIST after an endoscopic examination and abdominal CT scan. However, exploratory laparotomy revealed an enlarged node penetrating the duodenal bulb, which was diagnosed histopathologically as tuberculous lymphadenitis. This case suggests that in regions with a high prevalence of tuberculosis, intra-abdominal tuberculosis is often mistaken as a malignant neoplasm. A high index of suspicion and the accurate nonsurgical diagnosis of intra-abdominal tuberculosis continues to be a challenge.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/65/kjim-20-72.PMC3891416.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3150682", "abstract": "Prostatic stromal sarcoma (PSS) is quite rare. Herein, we describe magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of a PSS identified in a 26-year-old man with dysuria and hematuria. MRI clearly depicted the extent and multinodular appearance of the tumor, which was mainly located in the central zone of the prostate. The tumor appeared as a heterogeneously signal-hyperintense mass with a pseudocapsule on T2-weighted imaging. Contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MRI showed necrotic portions in the gradually enhanced solid mass, and diffusion-weighted imaging permitted the accurate assessment of the local extent of the tumor. Thus, the appearance on MRI was quite different from that of adenocarcinoma of the prostate.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f6/c1/kjr-12-519.PMC3150682.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4062268", "abstract": "Objective: Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has become an important imaging modality for the diagnosis, staging and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. However, no official data exists regarding clinical EUS practice in Latin America (LA). This study assessed current EUS practice and training. Patients and Methods: A direct mail survey questionnaire was sent to 268 Capítulo Latino Americano de Ultrasonido Endoscópico members between August 2012 and January 2013. The questionnaire was sent out in English, Spanish and Portuguese languages and was available through the following site: http://www.cleus-encuesta.com. Responses were requested only from physicians who perform EUS. Results: A total of 70 LA physicians answered the questionnaire until January 2013. Most of the participants were under 42 years of age (53", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/be/52/EUS-2-208.PMC4062268.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4762996", "abstract": " Objective. This study evaluated the effect of immediate or delayed finishing/polishing using different systems on the surface roughness, hardness, and microleakage of a silorane-based composite. Material and Methods. Specimens were made with silorane-based composite (Filtek P90, 3M ESPE) and assigned to the treatments: control (light-cured); aluminum oxide discs (Sof-Lex, 3M ESPE); diamond-impregnated silicone tips (Astropol, Ivoclar Vivadent); aluminum oxide-impregnated silicone tips (Enhance, Dentsply). Half of the specimens were finished/polished immediately and the rest after 7 days. Surface roughness (Ra, μm; n = 20) and Vickers microhardness (50 g; 45 s; n = 10) were measured. Cavities were prepared in bovine incisors and filled with Filtek P90. The fillings received immediate or delayed finishing/polishing (n = 10) and were subjected to dye penetration test (0.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b7/71/PMC4762996.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5380502", "abstract": "Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) and is considered as the leading cause of visual impairment in working-aged adults worldwide. Dyslipidemia has been associated with DR, but not with progression to the proliferative form of DR, although the exact role in the pathogenesis of DR and diabetic macular edema (DME) remains controversial. As a result, a reasonable question arising is whether control of dyslipidemia may alter the course of DR. Statins do not appear to have an impact on DR progression. On the other hand, fenofibrate has been found to significantly reduce the rate of progression of DR in patients with pre-existing mild DR, although it has no impact on patient’s vision nor on the prevention of DR development in patients with type 2 DM without DR. An interesting point that needs further evaluation is why patients without DR or those with severe DR appear to have no benefit from fenofibrate treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/a0/13300_2017_Article_240.PMC5380502.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3010649", "abstract": "The purpose of this research was a comparative analysis of cholinergic synaptic organization following learning and memory in normal and chronic cerebral ischaemic rats in the Morris water maze model. Choline acetyltransferase and protein content were determined in subpopulations of presynapses of “light” and “heavy” synaptosomal fractions of the cortex and the hippocampus, and the cholinergic projective and intrinsic systems of the brain structures were taken into consideration. We found a strong involvement of cholinergic systems, both projective and intrinsic, in all forms of cognition. Each form of cognition had an individual cholinergic molecular profile and the cholinergic synaptic compositions in the ischaemic rat brains differed significantly from normal ones. Our data demonstrated that under ischaemic conditions, instead of damaged connections new key synaptic relationships, which were stable against pathological influences and able to restore damaged cognitive functions, arose. The plasticity of neurochemical links in the individual organization of certain types of cognition gave a new input into brain pathology and can be used in the future for alternative corrections of vascular and other degenerative dementias.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c9/1c/PMC3010649.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4219864", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Background Successful extraction of third molars depends on preoperative diagnosis and planning. Gold standard preoperative examinations are performed through computed tomography, decreasing risks and avoiding potential accidents. The present report highlights the value of preoperative examinations in face of accidentally displaced third molars. Methods An 18-years-old female patient underwent a third mandibular molar extraction with a general dentist. Accidentally, the mandibular left third molar was displaced into the sublingual space, making necessary a second surgical step. The surgery was interrupted and the patient was referred to an expert in maxillofacial surgery. Results After 21 days awaiting an asymptomatic health status, the second surgical step was successfully performed using multislice computed tomography as preoperative imaging guide. Conclusions The present case report highlights the clinical usefulness of imaging planning and informed consents in face of legal and ethic potential complaints.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/27/30/jomr-05-e5.PMC4219864.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4384861", "abstract": "Introduction: The presence of heavy metals such as cadmium in drinking water resources can be dangerous for human because of toxicity and biological accumulation. The consumption of water which contains Cd in high concentration can lead to Bone and Kidney diseases. Material and Methods: In this present study, the researcher collected 432 samples of bottled water in the popular marks in summer and winter from the surface of Bandar Abbas. The cadmium concentration was measured by atomic absorption Spectrophotometer in model DR2800 through the Dithizone method. CDI, R and HQ which are caused by Cd for adult men, women and children, have been calculated and evaluated through the equations of EPA and WHO. Results: Mean of 1.73±0.19 µg/l (M±SE) is lower than the standard of WHO and EPA. However, 33.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/22/ba/MSM-27-52.PMC4384861.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2948249", "abstract": "Recent studies have begun to illuminate the mechanism of T-cell export from the thymus, with the identification of a required lysophospholipid receptor, two upstream transcription factors, and several downstream regulators of cytoskeleton dynamics. This work has generated immediate translational impact, aiding the design of immunosuppressant drugs and the identification of a novel form of human immunodeficiency.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2e/da/1757-594X-0001-0000000060.PMC2948249.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5430492", "abstract": "The current treatment of schistosomiasis is based on the anti-helminthic drug praziquantel (PZQ). PZQ affects only the adult stages of schistosomes. In addition, resistance to PZQ is emerging. We suggest a drug, which could serve as a potential alternative or complement to PZQ, and as a means of treating infections at earlier, pre-granuloma stage. Derivatives of the peroxidic antimalarial drug artemisinin have been indicated as alternatives, because both plasmodia and schistosomes are blood-feeding parasites. The mechanism of action of artemisinins is related to oxidative effects of the artemisinins on intracellular reductants leading to formation of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species. We used artemisone, which has improved pharmacokinetics and anti-plasmodial activity, and reduced toxicity compared to other artemisinins in clinical use against malaria. We infected adult mice by subcutaneous injection of S. mansoni cercariae (about 200) and treated them at various times post infection by the following methods: i. artemisone suspension administered by gavage (400–450 mg/kg); ii. subcutaneous injection of a gel containing a known concentration of artemisone (115–120 mg/kg); iii. subcutaneous insertion of the drug incorporated in a solid polymer (56–60 mg/kg); iv. intraperitoneal injection of the drug solubilized in DMSO (115–120 mg/kg). Drug administration in polymers was performed to enable slow release of the artemisone that was verified in vivo and in vitro bioassays using drug-sensitive malaria parasites. We found superior strong anti-schistosome effects up to a total reduction of worm number, mainly following repetitive treatments with the drug absorbed in the polymers (73.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/31/b9/main.PMC5430492.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4246381", "abstract": "Objective The present study evaluated morphometrically bone loss percentages in experimental periodontitis in rats, comparing different locations (lingual mandible, palatal maxilla and buccal maxilla) and two evaluation methods (distance and area methods). Material and Methods Ligatures were placed around the maxillary right second molar and around the mandibular right first molar in 14 female Wistar rats. The contralateral molars served as intragroup controls. After 4 weeks, the rats were sacrificed and their mandible and maxilla were removed. The specimens were dissected and stained with methylene blue dye. Bone loss was evaluated by two different methods on the surfaces of the defleshed jaw. In the first method, the distance from the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) to the alveolar bone crest was measured in the roots of teeth associated with ligature. In the second method, the area of bone loss was determined using the alveolar tissue bone, CEJ and the proximal region of roots associated with the ligature as reference. The data were converted to bone loss percentages caused by ligature: (ligated – unligated) x 100/ligated. Results When comparing the distance and area methods, no statistically significant difference was observed (p>0.05). Both methodologies indicated that the maxilla presented greater bone loss than the mandible and it was more accentuated on the buccal side than on the palatal side (p<0.05). Conclusion The findings of this study show that both the area and the distance methods can be used to evaluate bone loss caused by ligature placement in rats, and suggest applying the morphometric methodology to the maxilla on the buccal side.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ca/e7/jaos-18-05-0493.PMC4246381.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3130461", "abstract": "Dopaminergic signaling within the basal ganglia has classically been thought to occur within two distinct neuronal pathways; the direct striatonigral pathway which contains the dopamine D1 receptor and the neuropeptides dynorphin (DYN) and substance P, and the indirect striatopallidal pathway which expresses the dopamine D2 receptor and enkephalin (ENK). A number of studies have also shown, however, that D1 and D2 receptors can co-exist within the same medium spiny neuron and emerging evidence indicates that these D1/D2-coexpressing neurons, which also express DYN and ENK, may comprise a third neuronal pathway, with representation in both the striatonigral and striatopallidal projections of the basal ganglia. Furthermore, within these coexpressing neurons it has been shown that the dopamine D1 and D2 receptor can form a novel and pharmacologically distinct receptor complex, the dopamine D1–D2 receptor heteromer, with unique signaling properties. This is indicative of a functionally unique role for these neurons in brain. The aim of this review is to discuss the evidence in support of a novel third pathway coexpressing the D1 and D2 receptor, to discuss the potential relevance of this pathway to basal ganglia signaling, and to address its potential value, and that of the dopamine D1–D2 receptor heteromer, in the search for new therapeutic strategies for disorders involving dopamine neurotransmission.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8c/7a/PMC3130461.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4525757", "abstract": " Purpose. To assess the MRI issues at 3 Tesla for a metallic tissue marker used to localize removal areas of tissue abnormalities. Materials and Methods. A newly designed, metallic tissue marker (Achieve Marker, CareFusion, Vernon Hills, IL) used to mark biopsy sites, particularly in breasts, was assessed for MRI issues which included standardized tests to determine magnetic field interactions (i.e., translational attraction and torque), MRI-related heating, and artifacts at 3 Tesla. Temperature changes were determined for the marker using a gelled-saline-filled phantom. MRI was performed at a relatively high specific absorption rate (whole body averaged SAR, 2.9-W/kg). MRI artifacts were evaluated using T1-weighted, spin echo and gradient echo pulse sequences. Results. The marker displayed minimal magnetic field interactions (2-degree deflection angle and no torque). MRI-related heating was only 0.1°C above background heating (i.e., the heating without the tissue marker present). Artifacts seen as localized signal loss were relatively small in relation to the size and shape of the marker. Conclusions. Based on the findings, the new metallic tissue marker is acceptable or “MR Conditional” (using current labeling terminology) for a patient undergoing an MRI procedure at 3 Tesla or less.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5c/cc/PMC4525757.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4635085", "abstract": "Objective:  Inhaler technique comprises a set of procedures for drug delivery to the respiratory system. The oral inhalation of medications is the first-line treatment for lung diseases. Using the proper inhaler technique ensures sufficient drug deposition in the distal airways, optimizing therapeutic effects and reducing side effects. The purposes of this study were to assess inhaler technique in pediatric and adult patients with asthma; to determine the most common errors in each group of patients; and to compare the results between the two groups.  Methods:  This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Using a ten-step protocol, we assessed inhaler technique in 135 pediatric asthma patients and 128 adult asthma patients.  Results:  The most common error among the pediatric patients was failing to execute a 10-s breath-hold after inhalation, whereas the most common error among the adult patients was failing to exhale fully before using the inhaler.  Conclusions:  Pediatric asthma patients appear to perform most of the inhaler technique steps correctly. However, the same does not seem to be true for adult patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/15/4e/1806-3713-jbpneu-41-05-00405.PMC4635085.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3844174", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between ATM, TP53 and MDM2 polymorphisms in prostate cancer patients and morbidity after radiotherapy. The presence of ATM (rs1801516), TP53 (rs1042522, rs1800371, rs17878362, rs17883323, and rs35117667), and MDM2 (rs2279744) polymorphisms was assessed by direct sequencing of PCR fragments from 48 patients with histologically proven prostate adenocarcinoma and treated with external beam radiation. The side effects were classified according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) score. The results showed no association between clinical characteristics and the development of radiation toxicities (P > 0.05). The C>T transition in the position 16273 (intron 3) of TP53 (rs35117667) was significantly associated with the risk of acute skin toxicity (OR: 0.0072, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4f/40/PMC3844174.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4901012", "abstract": "Mushroom exposures are increasing worldwide. The incidence and fatality of mushroom poisoning are reported to be increasing. Several new syndromes in mushroom poisoning have been described. Rhabdomyolytic mushroom poisoning is one of new syndromes. Russula subnigricans mushroom can cause delayed-onset rhabdomyolysis with acute kidney injury in the severely poisoned patient. There are few reports on the toxicity of R. subnigricans. This report represents the first record of R. subnigricans poisoning with rhabdomyolysis in Korea, describing a 51-year-old man who suffered from rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury, severe hypocalcemia, respiratory failure, ventricular tachycardia, cardiogenic shock, and death. Mushroom poisoning should be considered in the evaluation of rhabdomyolysis of unknown cause. Furthermore, R. subnigricans should be considered in the mushroom poisoning with rhabdomyolysis. Graphical Abstract", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/32/jkms-31-1164.PMC4901012.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2852704", "abstract": "Mesenteric fibromatosis (MF) is a rare benign mesenchymal lesion that can occur throughout the gastrointestinal tract, especially small bowel. Its biological behavior is intermediate between benign fibrous tissue proliferation and malignant fibrosarcoma. In previously reported cases of MF, we could find colonic obstruction or ureter obstruction, but simultaneous involvement of colon and ureter was not able to be seen. We described a patient that presented with colonic obstruction and hydroureteronephrosis due to MF at sigmoid colon which mimicked submucosal tumor such as gastrointestinal tumor. This case resulted in a positive positron emission tomography scan suggesting malignant neoplasm, but β-catenin positivity on immunohistochemical staining separated MF from gastrointestinal stromal tumor and sclerosing mesenteritis. The clinical course of the patient was improved after surgical resection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0c/b0/PMC2852704.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4462053", "abstract": "Background: Acute coronary syndrome is the most common disease in the world. Several studies suggest that hyperglycemia is associated with poor clinical outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of insulin infusion protocol and conventional therapy on the blood glucose level and outcomes in acute coronary syndrome patients with diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: We studied 64 patients (32 in each group) with acute coronary syndrome and acute myocardial infarction, who were admitted to the coronary care unit in a hospital in Isfahan, Iran in 2012. Inclusion criterion was blood sugar (BS) of more than 180 mg/dl on admission. Patients in the intervention group received insulin with East Jefferson insulin infusion protocol for at least 4 h, and in the control group, the subjects received subcutaneous insulin (conventional therapy) for at least for 48 h. Independent t-test, Student's t-test, and Chi-square test were used to analyze the data. Results: Groups were matched for baseline characteristics. Blood glucose was significantly reduced in the two groups (P < 0.001), and the mean blood glucose level in the interaction group was significantly less than in the control group (P = 0.0002). Hypoglycemia was 31.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/c6/IJNMR-20-304.PMC4462053.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3864413", "abstract": "Chiari malformations are a congenital heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by anatomic anomalies of the cerebellum, brain stem, and craniocervical junction associated with downward displacement of the cerebellum, alone or with lower medulla, into the cervical spine canal. The patient was a 23-year-old woman, a known case of Arnold-Chiari malformation with peripheral neuropathy and muscular atrophy, who presented with headache, drowsiness, decreased vision, and severe gait dysfunction lasting for several years. Brain magnetic resonance imaging confirmed a hypointense signal mass in the left hemisphere of the cerebellum causing mass effects on the fourth ventricle, which shifted it, accompanied with dilation of third and lateral ventricles.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/43/26/PMC3864413.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2686868", "abstract": "Corticobasal degeneration (CBD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by asymmetric parkinsonism associated with apraxia, cortical sensory loss, and alien-limb phenomenon. Neuropsychological testing in patients with CBD typically shows deficits in executive functions, praxis, language, and visuospatial functioning, but not in memory. We report a CBD patient with severely impaired memory function but relatively mild motor symptoms. Detailed neuropsychological assessment showed significant verbal and visual memory deficits accompanied by frontal executive dysfunctions. Our observations indicate that CBD can in rare cases present with severe episodic memory impairment associated with frontal executive dysfunctions in the early stage of illness.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/13/6c/PMC2686868.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3485988", "abstract": "It is established that regular aerobic training improves vascular function, for example, endothelium-dependent vasodilatation and arterial stiffness or compliance and thereby constitutes a preventative measure against cardiovascular disease. In contrast, high-intensity resistance training impairs vascular function, while the influence of moderate-intensity resistance training on vascular function is still controversial. However, aerobic training is insufficient to inhibit loss in muscular strength with advancing age; thus, resistance training is recommended to prevent sarcopenia. Recently, several lines of study have provided compelling data showing that exercise and training with blood flow restriction (BFR) leads to muscle hypertrophy and strength increase. As such, BFR training might be a novel means of overcoming the contradiction between aerobic and high-intensity resistance training. Although it is not enough evidence to obtain consensus about impact of BFR training on vascular function, available evidences suggested that BFR training did not change coagulation factors and arterial compliance though with inconsistence results in endothelial function. This paper is a review of the literature on the impact of BFR exercise and training on vascular function, such as endothelial function, arterial compliance, or other potential factors in comparison with those of aerobic and resistance training.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/58/ac/PMC3485988.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4574339", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Blunt cerebrovascular injury (BCVI) is usually caused by neck trauma that predominantly occurs in high-impact injuries. BCVI may occur due to damage to both the vertebral and carotid arteries, and may be fatal in the absence of appropriate treatment and early diagnosis. Here, we describe a case of cerebral infarction caused by a combination of a lower cervical spinal fracture and traumatic injury to the carotid artery by a direct blunt external force in a 52-year-old man. Initially, there was no effect on consciousness, but 6 hours later loss of consciousness occurred due to traumatic dissection of the carotid artery that resulted in a cerebral infarction. Brain edema was so extensive that decompression by emergency craniectomy and internal decompression were performed by a neurosurgeon, but with no effect, and the patient died on day 7. This is a rare case of cerebral infarction caused by a combination of a lower cervical spinal fracture and traumatic injury to the carotid artery. The case suggests that cervical vascular injury should be considered in a patient with a blunt neck trauma and that additional imaging should be performed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/98/2186-3326-77-3-0507.PMC4574339.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4058255", "abstract": " Objective. To determine the effectiveness of exercise and/or nutrition interventions and to address body weight changes during the menopause transition.  Methods. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using electronic databases, grey literature, and hand searching. Two independent researchers screened for studies using experimental designs to evaluate the impact of exercise and/or nutrition interventions on body weight and/or central weight gain performed during the menopausal transition. Studies were quality appraised using Cochrane risk of bias. Included studies were analyzed descriptively. Results. Of 3,564 unique citations screened, 3 studies were eligible (2 randomized controlled trials, and 1 pre/post study). Study quality ranged from low to high risk of bias. One randomized controlled trial with lower risk of bias concluded that participation in an exercise program combined with dietary interventions might mitigate body adiposity increases, which is normally observed during the menopause transition. The other two studies with higher risk of bias suggested that exercise might attenuate weight loss or weight gain and change abdominal adiposity patterns. Conclusions. High quality studies evaluating the effectiveness of interventions targeting body weight changes in women during their menopause transition are needed. Evidence from one higher quality study indicates an effective multifaceted intervention for women to minimize changes in body adiposity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/17/0a/PMC4058255.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5150121", "abstract": "The advancement of the biological production of nanoparticles using herbal extracts performs a significant role in nanotechnology discipline as it is green and does not engage harsh chemicals. The objective of the present investigation was to extract flavonoids in the mode of apple extract and synthesize its silver nanoparticles and ultimately nanoparticles loading into hydrogels. The presence of flavonoids in apple extract was characterized by preliminary testing like dil. ammonia test and confirmatory test by magnesium ribbon test. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized using UV spectroscopy, particle size and surface morphology, and zeta potential. Silver nanoparticles loaded hydrogels were evaluated for physical appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability, porosity, in vitro release, ex vivo permeation, and antibacterial (E. coli and S. aureus) and antioxidant studies (DPPH radical scavenging assay). Well dispersed silver nanoparticles below were observed in scanning electron microscope image. Hydrogels displayed in vitro release of 98.01", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/64/PMC5150121.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4414233", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objectives The purpose of this first part of a two-part series was to review the literature concerning the indications, contraindications, advantages, disadvantages and surgical techniques of the lateralization and transposition of the inferior alveolar nerve, followed by the placement of an implant in an edentulous atrophic posterior mandible. Material and Methods A comprehensive review of the current literature was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines by accessing the NCBI PubMed and PMC database, academic sites and books. The articles were searched from January 1997 to July 2014 and comprised English-language articles that included adult patients between 18 and 80 years old with minimal residual bone above the mandibular canal who had undergone inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) repositioning with a minimum 6 months of follow-up. Results A total of 16 studies were included in this review. Nine were related to IAN transposition, 4 to IAN lateralization and 3 to both transposition and lateralization. Implant treatment results and complications were presented. Conclusions Inferior alveolar nerve lateralization and transposition in combination with the installation of dental implants is sometimes the only possible procedure to help patients to obtain a fixed prosthesis, in edentulous atrophic posterior mandibles. With careful pre-operative surgical and prosthetic planning, imaging, and extremely precise surgical technique, this procedure can be successfully used for implant placement in edentulous posterior mandibular segments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/0c/jomr-06-e2.PMC4414233.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2758150", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to describe clinicopathologic and radiographic features of two cases of schwannoma involving the oral tongue and to review the literature of this unusual clinical entity. Case reports with review of the pathologic, radiologic and clinical data for two patients with schwannoma of the tongue are reported. Review of the literature of case reports of schwannomas (neurilemmomas) of the tongue from 1955 to 2006 with analysis of the patient’s age, gender, presenting symptom(s), tumor size, and surgical approach was undertaken. The two patients in our series presented with painless swelling of the tongue. Transoral excision was performed and pathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of schwannoma in both the cases. A total of 126 cases of schwannoma of the tongue have been reported in the English literature over the past 51 years. Schwannomas of the tongue typically present in the third decade of life (33", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/75/PMC2758150.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4184765", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Nonorganic vision loss (NOVL) is a relatively common condition in pediatric patients. Prompt diagnosis can prevent costly, time-consuming, and frustrating workups. It is valuable for general practitioners and specialists alike to include NOVL in their differential when evaluating patients with visual complaints that are inconsistent with normal examination findings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e4/c3/ccr30002-0010.PMC4184765.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4058594", "abstract": "Primary epididymal obstructive azoospermia (OA) is the most prevalent form of OA in nonvasectomized patients and has been less studied. We aim to assess the results with microsurgical vasoepididymostomy used in the treatment of men diagnosed with primary epididymal obstructive azoospermia and to identify the factors associated with natural pregnancy occurring after microsurgical reconstruction. This prospective study included consecutive patients with epididymal OA who underwent microsurgical reconstruction in our center. Clinical and biological data were obtained every three months during follow-up. Occurrence of natural pregnancy was the primary study outcome. In total, 36 patients underwent microsurgical reconstruction. The mean age was 34 ± 4.5 years (range 24–46 years). Median follow-up time was 15 [IQR 12–21] months. The total patency rate was 77.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/34/4f/PMC4058594.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4066947", "abstract": " Background. Measures of screen time are often used to assess sedentary behaviour. Participation in activity-based video games (exergames) can contribute to estimates of screen time, as current practices of measuring it do not consider the growing evidence that playing exergames can provide light to moderate levels of physical activity. This study aimed to determine what proportion of time spent playing video games was actually spent playing exergames. Methods. Data were collected via a cross-sectional telephone survey in South Australia. Participants aged 18 years and above (n = 2026) were asked about their video game habits, as well as demographic and socioeconomic factors. In cases where children were in the household, the video game habits of a randomly selected child were also questioned. Results. Overall, 31.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3f/d7/PMC4066947.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4897545", "abstract": " Background. A study aimed at determining the prevalence and predictors of parasitic contamination of fruits and vegetables collected from local markets in Jimma Town, Ethiopia, was conducted between April and May 2013. Methods. A total of 360 samples of fruits and vegetables were examined by sedimentation concentration after washing using normal saline. Results. The overall prevalence of parasitic contamination was 57.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/be/51/PMC4897545.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4983377", "abstract": "Literature reviews of all references concerning the parasitic fauna of fishes in fish farms of Babylon province, middle of Iraq, showed that a total of 92 valid parasite species are so far known from the common carp (Cyprinus carpio), the grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), and the silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) as well as from three freshwater fish species (Carassius auratus, Liza abu, and Heteropneustes fossilis) which were found in some fish farms of the same province. The parasitic fauna included one mastigophoran, three apicomplexans, 13 ciliophorans, five myxozoans, five trematodes, 45 monogeneans, five cestodes, three nematodes, two acanthocephalans, nine arthropods, and one mollusc. The common carp was found to harbour 81 species of parasites, the grass carp 30 species, the silver carp 28 species, L. abu 13 species, C. auratus one species, and H. fossilis one species. A host-parasite list for each fish species was also provided. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/41/68/PMC4983377.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4198815", "abstract": "The objective of this study was to evaluate pain in women with breast cancer-related lymphedema and the characteristics of aggravating factors and coping mechanisms. The study was conducted in the Clinica Godoy, São Jose do Rio Preto, with a group of 46 women who had undergone surgery for the treatment of breast cancer. The following variables were evaluated: type and length of surgery; number of radiotherapy and chemotherapy sessions; continued feeling of the removed breast (phantom limb), infection, intensity of pain, and factors that improve and worsen the pain. The percentage of events was used for statistical analysis. About half the participants (52.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4b/ce/PMC4198815.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2718140", "abstract": "Alveolar soft-part sarcoma is a rare soft tissue sarcoma of young adults with unknown histogenesis, and the organ most frequently involved in metastasis is the lung. We report the CT findings of three patients of pulmonary metastases of alveolar soft-part sarcoma, which manifested as clearly enhanced pulmonary nodules or masses. On enhanced scans, some of the masses were seen to contain dilated and tortuous intratumoral vessels.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/58/kjr-1-56.PMC2718140.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4248482", "abstract": "Thyroid function and microalbuminuria are both associated with vascular disease and endothelial damage. However, whether thyroid function is associated with microalbuminuria is not well established. The objective was to explore the relationship between thyroid hormones and microalbuminuria in Chinese population. A community-based cross-sectional study was performed among 3,346 Chinese adults (aged ≥ 40 years). Serum free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) were determined by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. A single-void first morning urine sample was obtained for urinary albumin-creatinine ratio measurement. The prevalence of microalbuminuria decreased according to FT3 quartiles (13.2, 9.5, 8.6, and 8.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bc/af/PMC4248482.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4215061", "abstract": "Biomedical research has and will continue to generate large amounts of data (termed ‘big data’) in many formats and at all levels. Consequently, there is an increasing need to better understand and mine the data to further knowledge and foster new discovery. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has initiated a Big Data to Knowledge (BD2K) initiative to maximize the use of biomedical big data. BD2K seeks to better define how to extract value from the data, both for the individual investigator and the overall research community, create the analytic tools needed to enhance utility of the data, provide the next generation of trained personnel, and develop data science concepts and tools that can be made available to all stakeholders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/39/amiajnl-2014-002974.PMC4215061.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2989755", "abstract": "Antiphospholipid syndrome is one type of immunological diseases which may be primary or secondary characterized by repeated thrombosis that it may be called “sticky blood syndrome”. Although a well-known disease in gynecology, there is no sufficient data in pediatrics field; so we see that it is important to discuss this interesting case.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/76/PMC2989755.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2895220", "abstract": "Anetoderma is a rare elastolytic disorder characterized by circumscribed areas of flaccid skin due to the loss of elastic tissue in the dermis. Primary anetoderma is frequently observed in patients with autoimmune diseases or abnormalities especially with antiphospholipid antibodies with or without antiphospholipid syndrome. In this case report we discuss a patient with primary anetoderma with positive antithyroid peroxidase antibodies, which is consistent with autoimmune thyroiditis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/66/cde0001-0100.PMC2895220.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4094194", "abstract": "Intensity of tropical cyclones is expected to increase in the coming century, and an improved understanding of their influence on biogeochemical cycles would benefit ecologists and conservationists. We studied the November 2013 Typhoon Haiyan damage to observe that numerous examples of partial leaf necrosis on intact leaves of trees in the Cycadaceae and Arecaceae families resulted, leaving behind a copious amount of arboreal dead leaf material attached to live leaves. The decay process of this form of arboreal litter has not been previously studied. When compared with decay of ground litter or detached litter suspended in the canopy, we predict the decay process of this form of arboreal litter will include increased photooxidation, leaching, and comminution by detritivorous insects and mites; but decreased catabolism of organic molecules by saprophytic organisms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/16/3c/cib-7-e27924.PMC4094194.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4591570", "abstract": "Background: Iran is one of the countries with considerable road traffic injuries. Pre-hospital interventions have an important role in preventing mortalities and disabilities caused by traffic accidents. The present study aimed to explore the barriers of pre-hospital care in traffic injuries in Tehran, Iran. Methods: A qualitative content analysis approach was conducted based on 21 semi-structured interviews with 18 participants. A purposeful sampling method was applied until reaching data saturation. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and then data condensing, labeling, coding and defining categories were performed by qualitative content analysis. Results: Four main barriers including 4 main categories and 13 subcategories emerged; they included Barriers related to people, Barriers related to metropolitan infrastructure, Barriers related to the profession and Barriers related to managerial issues. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, pre-hospital service barriers in traffic accidents have many dimensions including cultural, structural and managerial domains. Policy makers in health system can use these findings to promote the quality of pre-hospital services, especially in the field of traffic injuries.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b3/27/IJCBNM-3-272.PMC4591570.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5344216", "abstract": "This case of infective endocarditis masquerading as mixed cryoglobulinemia in a man with a history of intravenous drug use (IVDU) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) highlights the importance of maintaining a broad differential and continually re-evaluating the working diagnosis as new information presents itself. The patient presented to an outside hospital and was treated for presumptive mixed cryoglobulinemia with corticosteroid therapy. When the patient did not improve, he was transferred to a tertiary care center for possible Rituximab and/or plasmapheresis. Further investigation revealed Enterococcus bacteremia with subsequent workup consistent with infective endocarditis (IE). This case highlights a diagnostic dilemma and demonstrates the importance of a thorough evaluation as it pertains to overlapping features of IE and mixed cryoglobulinemia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/c3/main.PMC5344216.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4120969", "abstract": "Guanidinium-rich scaffolds facilitate cellular translocation and delivery of bioactive cargos through biological barriers. Although impressive uptake has been demonstrated for nonoligomeric and nonpept(o)idic guanidinylated scaffolds in cell cultures and animal models, the fundamental understanding of these processes is lacking. Charge pairing and hydrogen bonding with cell surface counterparts have been proposed, but their exact role remains putative. The impact of the number and spatial relationships of the guanidinium groups on delivery and organelle/organ localization is yet to be established.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/95/c1/PMC4120969.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4589719", "abstract": "Background: All men are born equal and are endowed by their creator with some basic rights. As the military is to defend the country from external threats, so is the police for maintenance of the internal peace of the community. The irregular shifts in their work schedule lead to neglecting or skipping of their regular diet and indulging into adverse habits. It is the responsibility of the society to safeguard the health of their defenders. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 475 central reserve police personnels in Mathura city. Consent was obtained from the concerned authorities and the subjects were clinically examined using WHO 2013 “Oral Health Assessment Form.” Results: This study revealed that 99.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/12/JIOH-7-51.PMC4589719.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4500874", "abstract": "Infantile temporomandibular joint septic arthritis is an uncommon paediatric infection, but one which carries the potential for severe morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis and aggressive medical and possibly surgical management is indicated for the best outcomes. The presenting clinical features are non-specific in a neonate and an infant; as such a high degree of clinical suspicion is required. We present the case of an eleven-month-old boy who has made a full recovery from an acute temporomandibular joint septic arthritis and review the relevant literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2e/a1/cp-2015-2-736.PMC4500874.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3854679", "abstract": "We report staged treatment of severe combined spinal deformity in an 11-year-old patient with Ollier disease and abnormal cervical vertebra. Combined scoliosis with systemic pathology and abnormal vertebrae is a rare condition and features atypical deformity location and rapid progression rate and frequently involves the rib cage and pelvis, disturbing the function of chest organs and skeleton. Progressive deformity resulted in cachexia and acute respiratory failure. A halo-pelvic distraction device assembled of Ilizarov components was employed for a staged surgical treatment performed for lifesaving indications. After vital functions stabilized, the scoliosis curve of the cervical spine was corrected and fixed with a hybrid system of transpedicular supporting points, connecting rods, and connectors that provided staged distraction during growth. The treatment showed good functional and cosmetic result.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/19/74/PMC3854679.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5333007", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of the present study was to develop an education program for physical therapy assistants in order to provide high quality physical therapy for the province of Quang Tri in Vietnam. [Subjects and Methods] Subjects consisted of 9 professors in Quang Tri medical college and 1 physical therapist in Quang Tri General hospital. The survey research to lecturer for education of physical therapy assistant in Quang Tri medical college was conducted as pre-analysis of demand for the physical therapy assistant curriculum development. The priority rank of expectation and consciousness were measured in curriculum subjects. [Results] Results of educational expectation of the curriculum total educational expectation were presented as minimum 4 to maximum 5. In the result of educational expectation according to background variable, the differences of educational expectation on scores according to the educational experience were significant. Among the consciousness priority of each curriculum subject, the priority rank of basic kinesiology and physical therapy for international medicine     surgery were 9, the highest first rank frequency. [Conclusion] The curriculum for physical therapy assistant was developed to 5 main subjects including a total of 420 hours (120 hours of theory and 300 hours of practice).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/ef/jpts-29-370.PMC5333007.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4809340", "abstract": "Background Spontaneous rupture of the kidney is uncommon and is mainly caused by renal tumors. Only a few cases are caused by vasculitis. We report here the first case of spontaneous rupture of kidney resulting from mixed cryoglobulinemia. Case presentation A 44-year-old man presented with sudden onset of fever, acute pulmonary edema, left flank abdominal pain unassociated with trauma, and rapidly progressive renal failure requiring dialysis. Computed tomography of the abdomen revealed a large perirenal hematoma of the left kidney. During conservative surgery, the patient underwent renal biopsy that showed renal vasculitis and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis with intracapillary microthrombi. Tests were positive for mixed cryoglobulinemia caused by Sjögren’s syndrome. The patient was better after immunosuppressive therapy, with the disappearance of clinical symptoms and the recovery of baseline renal function. Conclusion We report on this case and discuss a possible link between spontaneous rupture of kidney and mixed cryoglobulinemia-associated Sjögren’s syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/59/imcrj-9-077.PMC4809340.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4196033", "abstract": "The spontaneous tumor biology has been investigated with the support of animalists using animals as a preclinical model allowing translation of results in clinical practice. This review provides an insight into the field of comparative oncology. Evidence shows that companion animal health care is impressively growing in terms of development of new therapies and diagnostic tools, nutrition and disease prevention. However, even if most animal tumors might be a reliable model to study human carcinomas, many open questions, related to the opportunities to select and recruit new models in oncology, along with their legal and ethical implications, remain unanswered.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fc/f4/PMC4196033.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4634825", "abstract": "Background The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and the presence or absence of hypertension and diabetes-related chronic complications in type 2 diabetes, and also the association between HRQoL and the number of chronic complications. Methods One hundred patients with type 2 diabetes were interviewed. HRQoL was evaluated using the age-adjusted Short-Form 36 dimensions (physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health). Results The mean age of the study population was 62.7±8.7 years; 54.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b6/c7/dmso-8-535.PMC4634825.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4303473", "abstract": " Study Design Case report.  Objective Odontoid process fractures represent an uncommon injury in small children, with their optimal management remaining unclear. We present a case of conservatively managed displaced type 2 odontoid process fracture in a small child.  Methods We analyzed clinical and radiographic outcomes of a restrained 2-year-old girl involved in a motor vehicle accident who sustained a displaced type 2 odontoid process fracture and was treated conservatively in a semirigid Aspen collar.  Results The fracture progressively healed with callus formation evident at 6 weeks. By 12 weeks, the patient was asymptomatic and had regained head control and a full range of movement. Radiographic remodeling of the fracture was seen to improve over the 6-month follow-up.  Conclusion This case illustrates that displaced type 2 odontoid process fractures can be successfully managed conservatively in small children.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bd/1c/PMC4303473.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649289", "abstract": "Gossypiboma is very rare in clinical practice. Despite its clinical importance, it carries some medico legal implications. We report a case of gossypiboma in a 54 years old female who presented with pain and a slowly growing lump in the abdomen 7 years after open cholecystectomy. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen showed a mass with enhanced internal septae and a radio-opaque marker within it, raising the suspicion of a foreign body. She underwent excision of the mass along with a segment of densely adherent transverse colon. Post-operative recovery was uneventful and the patient was well at 19-month follow up.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/f9/PMC3649289.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3964765", "abstract": "The paper demonstrates the feasibility of the gel-clot method for the analysis of bacterial endotoxins in water extracts of ultrapure paraffin oil which is a water insoluble oily medical device. Because ultrapure paraffin oil is water insoluble oily liquid, the ultrapure paraffin oil (10 mL) was shaken with 10 mL water for 15 minutes at 2000 rpm, the endotoxin present was extracted to the aqueous phase without interference inhibition/enhancement of the product, the recovery of the endotoxin added to the ultrapure paraffin oil was determined. A validation study confirmed that endotoxins present in ultrapure paraffin oil which is water insoluble liquid medical device pass over into the aqueous phase at concentrations of 20, 10, and 5 EU/mL with recoveries of 94.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/c4/PMC3964765.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1781251", "abstract": "The noncoding RNA database (ncRNAdb) was created as a source of information on RNA molecules, which do not possess protein-coding capacity. It is now widely accepted that, in addition to constitutively expressed, housekeeping or infrastructural RNAs, there is a wide variety of RNAs participating in mechanisms involved in regulation of gene expression at all levels of transmission of genetic information from DNA to proteins. Noncoding RNAs' activities include chromatin structure remodeling, transcriptional and translational regulation of gene expression, modulation of protein function and regulation of subcellular distribution of RNAs as well as proteins. Noncoding transcripts have been identified in organisms belonging to all domains of life. Currently, the ncRNAdb contains >30 000 ncRNA sequences from Eukaryotes, Eubacteria and Archaea, but does not include housekeeping transcripts or microRNAs and snoRNAs for which more specialized databases are available. The contents of the database can be accessed via the WWW at .", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/ba/gkl994.PMC1781251.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5059371", "abstract": "Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the major polyphenolic compound of green tea. Polyphenolic compounds were extracted from the leaf of Camellia sinensis (Japanese green tea), and the minimum inhibitory concentration against canine oral bacteria was measured. Subsequently, we investigated the inhibitory effects of polyphenolic compounds and EGCG on the growth of canine oral bacteria. EGCG showed antimicrobial activity against a model bacterium, Streptococcus mutans. Our results indicate that EGCG can inhibit the growth and biofilm formation of S. mutans and that EGCG does not interact with streptococcal lipoteichoic acid (LTA). Furthermore, our findings suggest that EGCG interacts with other component(s) of the bacterial membrane aside from streptococcal LTA to inhibit biofilm formation and damage biofilms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6d/27/jvms-78-1439.PMC5059371.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4568362", "abstract": "Endometriosis is a tricky albeit common disease whose management largely relies on laparoscopy. We have studied the operative times of laparoscopic endometrioma surgery in order to assess their predictability and possible predictors. One hundred forty-eight laparoscopies were included, with a median operative time of 70 minutes (mean 75.14; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5a/eb/PMC4568362.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3263570", "abstract": " Background. Functional dyspepsia is a common chronic disorder with non specific upper abdominal pain or discomfort. Different approaches with anti-secretory, spasmolytic, prokinetic and anti-inflammatory effects and most preferably reduction of visceral hypersensitivity seem logical. In this study, we compared the effectiveness of the four most drugs used for treatment of dyspepsia in children. Methods. 169 patients between 2 to 16 years old that 47.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fa/b7/PMC3263570.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4325122", "abstract": "To describe the novel technique of ventral inlay substitution urethroplasty for the management of male anterior urethral stricture disease. A 58-year-old gentleman with multifocal bulbar stricture disease measuring 7 cm in length was treated using a ventral inlay substitution urethroplasty. A dorsal urethrotomy was created, and the ventral urethral plated was incised. The edges of the urethral plate were mobilized without violation of the ventral corpus spongiosum. A buccal mucosa graft was harvested and affixed as a ventral inlay to augment the caliber of the urethra. The dorsal urethrotomy was closed over a foley catheter. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. Postoperative imaging demonstrated a widely patent urethra. After three years of follow-up, the patient continues to do well with no voiding complaints and low postvoid residuals. Ventral inlay substitution urethroplasty appears to be a safe and feasible technique for the management of bulbar urethral strictures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/26/kju-56-164.PMC4325122.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4762975", "abstract": "In the past several years, mobile learning made rapid inroads into the provision of medical education. There are significant advantages associated with mobile learning. These include high access, low cost, more situated and contextual learning, convenience for the learner, continuous communication and interaction between learner and tutor and between learner and other learners, and the ability to self-assess themselves while learning. Like any other form of medical pedagogy, mobile learning has its downsides. Disadvantages of mobile learning include: inadequate technology, a risk of distraction from learning by using a device that can be used for multiple purposes, and the potential for breakdown in barriers between personal usage of the mobile device and professional or educational use. Despite these caveats, there is no question but that mobile learning offers much potential. In the future, it is likely that the strategy of mobile first, whereby providers of e-learning think of the user experience on a mobile first, will result in learners who increasingly expect that all e-learning provision will work seamlessly on a mobile device.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2c/04/PMC4762975.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5018298", "abstract": "Nowadays, bypassing agents such as recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) and activated prothrombin complex concentrates (aPCC) are used to treat bleeding episodes in the Hemophilia patients with inhibitors. AryoSeven® is an Iranian biogeneric rFVIIa with homogeneity of efficacy and the nature to NovoSeven in a comparative trial. The current clinical trial aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of FEIBA and AryoSeven® by Decision Analytic Model according to the Iranian healthcare system. An open label, multi-center, cross-over clinical trial was designed. Patients were categorized into 3 groups based on their prior tendency to one or none of the products. To determine the premium therapeutic strategy, the Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated. Protocol F led to more treatment success in group F than the other groups (P= 0.03). Also, there was a significant statistical difference between the mean of effectiveness scores in the groups using protocol F (P = 0.01). The effectiveness of protocol F and A were 89", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/80/6a/PMC5018298.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4993870", "abstract": " Background and study aims: Leaks following gastrointestinal surgery are a dreadful complication burdened by high morbidity and not irrelevant mortality. Endoscopic internal drainage (EID) has showed optimal results in the treatment of leaks following bariatric surgery. We report our experience with EID as first-line treatment for fistulas following surgery along all gastrointestinal tract.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0d/01/PMC4993870.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3589280", "abstract": "Bile acid-sensitive ion channel (BASIC) is a member of the DEG/ENaC gene family of unknown function. Rat BASIC (rBASIC) is inactive at rest. We have recently shown that cholangiocytes, the epithelial cells lining the bile ducts, are the main site of BASIC expression in the liver and identified bile acids, in particular hyo- and chenodeoxycholic acid, as agonists of rBASIC. Moreover, it seems that extracellular divalent cations stabilize the resting state of rBASIC, because removal of extracellular divalent cations opens the channel. In this addendum, we demonstrate that removal of extracellular divalent cations potentiates the activation of rBASIC by bile acids, suggesting an allosteric mechanism. Furthermore, we show that rBASIC is strongly activated by the anticholestatic bile acid ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), suggesting that BASIC might mediate part of the therapeutic effects of UDCA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/95/chan-7-38.PMC3589280.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4681355", "abstract": "ESBL (extended-spectrum-β-lactamase)-positive Enterobacteriaceae, which colonized European soldiers in tropical Western African Mali, were subjected to a molecular assessment of their resistance determinants. By doing so, a better insight into the locally endemic pattern of ESBL-associated β-lactamase genes was aspired. From a previous study on diarrhea in European soldiers on deployment in tropical Mali, 15 ESBL-positive Escherichia coli with demonstrated high clonal diversity and one positive Klebsiella pneumoniae were assessed. Polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) for blaTEM and blaSHV β-lactamase genes with subsequent sequencing for the discrimination of ESBL- and non-ESBL variants were performed, followed by four group-specific PCRs for blaCTX-M genes. Non-ESBL-associated blaTEM-1 was identified in six out of 15 (40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/6a/eujmi-05-281.PMC4681355.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4017418", "abstract": "Atypical presentation is the most common form of celiac disease (CD). Although the terminologies like latent, silent and potential have expressed different aspects of clinical and pathological behaviour of CD, they also have contributed in some extent to confusion between clinicians and patients due to the multiple definitions and uncertainty around them. In the light of new advances and the discovery of entities such as non-celiac gluten sensitivity, using subclinical instead of silent and atypical instead of potential/latent may simplify the understanding behind the clinical behaviour of atypical CD. The evidence behind a lower threshold for starting a gluten free diet (GFD) in non-celiac gluten sensitive patients would strongly support applying a GFD treatment strategy in any forms of CD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/2d/GHFBB-4-102.PMC4017418.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2836747", "abstract": " Objective. This in vitro study uses measurements of fracture resistance to compare maxillary premolars restored with the bonded amalgam technique using a new resin luting cement, glass ionomer, and resin-modified glass ionomer as the bonding agents. Materials. Eighty-five sound maxillary premolars were selected and randomly assigned to one of five test groups of 17 teeth each. One group of intact teeth served as the control. The remaining groups were prepared to a standard cavity form relative to the dimensions of the overall tooth and restored with amalgam alone or a bonded amalgam using one of three luting agents: RelyX Arc (a new resin luting cement), RelyX luting (a resin-modified glass ionomer), or Ketac-Cem μ (a glass ionomer) as the bonding agents. Each tooth was then subjected to compressive testing until catastrophic failure occurred. The mean loads at failure of each group were statistically compared using ANOVA with a post hoc Bonferroni test. Results. It was found that regardless of the luting cement used for the amalgam bonding technique, there was little effect on the fracture resistance of teeth. Conclusion. Cusp fracture resistance of premolars prepared with conservative MOD cavity preparations is not improved by using an amalgam-bonding technique compared to similar cavities restored with amalgam alone. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/87/PMC2836747.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4836049", "abstract": "Background: Peripheral nerves at the elbow region are prone to entrapment neuropathies and injuries. To make accurate assessment, clinicians need stereoscopic display of the nerves to observe them at all angles. Objectives: To obtain a stereoscopic display of the peripheral nerves at the elbow region based on magnetic resonance (MR) diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data using three post-processing methods of volume rendering (VR), maximum intensity projection (MIP), and fiber tractography, and to evaluate the difference and correlation between them. Subjects and Methods: Twenty-four elbows of 12 healthy young volunteers were assessed by 20 encoding diffusion direction MR DTI scans. Images belonging to a single direction (anterior-posterior direction, perpendicular to the nerve) were subjected to VR and MIP reconstruction. All raw DTI data were transferred to the Siemens MR workstation for fiber tractography post-processing. Imaging qualities of fiber tractography and VR/MIP were evaluated by two observers independently based on a custom evaluation scale. Results: Stereoscopic displays of the nerves were obtained in all 24 elbows by VR, MIP, and fiber tractography post-processing methods. The VR/MIP post-processing methods were easier to perform compared to fiber tractography. There was no significant difference among the scores of fiber tracking and VR/MIP reconstruction for single direction. The imaging quality scores of fiber tractography and VR/MIP were significantly correlated based on intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis (ICC ranged 0.709 - 0.901), which suggested that the scores based on fiber tractography and VR/MIP for the same sample were consistent. Inter- and intraobserver agreements were good to excellent. Conclusion: Stereoscopic displays of the peripheral nerves at the elbow region can be achieved by using VR, MIP, and fiber tracking post-processing methods based on raw DTI images. VR and MIP reconstruction could be used as preview tools before fiber tracking to determine whether the raw images are satisfactory.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/9e/iranjradiol-13-01-22144.PMC4836049.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2968743", "abstract": " Purpose. To present a case of a keratoconic patient who underwent epithelial removal with transepithelial phototherapeutic keratectomy (t-PTK) using a 213-nm solid-state laser system followed by corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) with riboflavin and ultraviolet-A (UVA) irradiation. Methods. Case report. Results. A twenty-four-year-old male with keratoconus underwent CXL treatment after epithelial removal with t-PTK using a solid-state laser system. No intra- or early postoperative complications were found. One month postoperatively, uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) improved from 20/63 to 20/32 while best spectacle- corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) improved from 20/40 to 20/25. Corneal topography revealed a significant improvement which remained stable during the six-month followup period. Conclusions. Epithelial removal with t-PTK before CXL could improve patient's visual outcome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/be/23/PMC2968743.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3331881", "abstract": "Purpose To report on a case of keratoconjunctivitis with periorbital edema after accidental exposure to undiluted juice of Ecballium elaterium fruit during the ripening season of this plant. Methods Case report. Results Keratoconjunctivitis with Descemet's membrane folds and superficial upper corneal well-defined edematous areas were noted after an Ecballium elaterium fruit burst and its juice splashed into the patient's left eye. Prompt administration of antibiotic and steroid eye drops along with per os antihistamine therapy, resulted in quick regression of symptoms. Conclusions This report demonstrates the toxic effects of this herb to the eye and also that prompt therapy is effective.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f1/5d/cop-0003-0087.PMC3331881.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3935363", "abstract": "Mitochondrial dysfunction occurs in neurodegenerative diseases, however molecular mechanisms underlying this process remain elusive. Emerging evidence suggests that nitrosative stress, mediated by reactive nitrogen species (RNS), may play a role in mitochondrial pathology. Here, we review findings that highlight the abnormal mitochondrial morphology observed in many neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases. One mechanism whereby RNS can affect mitochondrial function and thus neuronal survival occurs via protein S-nitrosylation, representing chemical reaction of a nitric oxide (NO) group with a critical cysteine thiol. In this review, we focus on the signaling pathway whereby S-nitrosylation of the mitochondrial fission protein Drp1 (dynamin-related protein 1; forming S-nitrosothiol (SNO)-Drp1) precipitates excessive mitochondrial fission or fragmentation and consequent bioenergetic compromise. Subsequently, the formation of SNO-Drp1 leads to synaptic damage and neuronal death. Thus, intervention in the SNO-Drp1 pathway may provide therapeutic benefit in neurodegenerative diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/55/78/PMC3935363.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3265276", "abstract": "Nonmelanoma skin carcinoma (NMSC) is the most frequent cancer in the USA with over 1.3 million new diagnoses a year; however due to an underappreciation of its associated mortality and growing incidence and its ability to be highly aggressive, the molecular mechanism is not well delineated. Whereas the molecular profiles of melanoma have been well characterized, those for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) have trailed behind. This importance of the new staging paradigm is linked to the ability currently to better clinically cluster similar biologic behavior in order to risk-stratify lesions and patients. In this paper we discuss the trends in NMSC and the etiologies for the subset of NMSC with the most mortality, cutaneous SCC, as well as where the field stands in the discovery of a molecular profile. The molecular markers are highlighted to demonstrate the recent advances in cSCC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/76/c2/PMC3265276.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5074728", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the efficiency and efficacy of corifollitropin alfa (follicle-stimulating hormone–carboxy terminal peptide) in the treatment of poor responder patients. Methods A total of 85 poor responder patients with a mean age 40.2±3.9 years entered our assisted fertilization program. The patients were prospectively randomized into two groups based on the ovarian stimulation regimen used: group A (study group) (n=42) received clomiphene citrate and corifollitropin alfa for the first 7 days of stimulation followed by recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rFSH) in a gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol, and group B (control group) (n=43) received clomiphene citrate and a daily injection of rFSH in a gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol. We analyzed the stimulation outcome, the number of retrieved oocytes, cleaving embryos, and pregnancy and implantation rates as well. Results Comparable results were observed between the two groups in terms of demographic data, stimulation outcome, and the number of canceled cycles. There were no differences evident between groups A and B with respect to the number of retrieved oocytes (3.0±0.8 and 2.7±0.7, respectively) and the number of cleaving embryos (1.8±0.6 and 1.7±0.7, respectively). Higher, though not statistically significant, differences were observed in favor of group A compared to group B in terms of pregnancy rate per cycle (19", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/24/ijwh-8-609.PMC5074728.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3243860", "abstract": "Most hamartomatous polyps in the stomach occur in patients with adenomatous polyposis coli and dysplasia. The authors report a case of a 57-year-old man without prior history of polyposis coli who presented with adenocarcinomas derived from hamartomatous polyps in the stomach. The patient underwent a radical subtotal gastrectomy with Billroth I anastomosis. Pathology revealed adenocarcinomas with moderate differentiation without evidence of lymph node metastasis in 60 nodes. We report a case of gastric cancers arising from de novo gastric hamartomatous polyps.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/42/jkss-81-419.PMC3243860.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4518190", "abstract": "Enhanced expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is associated with the pathogenic processes of various tumor types. COX-2 and iNOS expression in the immunomodulatory dendritic cells is mediated by the granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), which is also expressed by cervical cancer cells; however, whether and how GM-CSF regulates COX-2 and iNOS expression in clinical cervical cancer cells remain unknown. In this study, we found that the COX-2 and iNOS expression was upregulated in the cervical cancer tissues and positively correlated with cancer metastasis and stage. About one-half of the cervical cancer tissues showed strong/moderate GM-CSF expression, while the normal cervical tissues showed >80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5a/5f/PMC4518190.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4131505", "abstract": " Background. Inflammation is often considered to play a crucial role in epilepsy by affecting iron status and metabolism. In this study, we investigated the curative effect of auricular acupuncture and somatic acupuncture on kainic acid- (KA-) induced epilepsy in rats. Methods. We established an epileptic seizure model in rats by KA (12 mg, ip). The 2 Hz electroacupuncture (EA) was applied at auricular and applied at Zusanli and Shangjuxu (ST36-ST37) acupoints for 20 min for 3 days/week for 6 weeks beginning on the day following the KA injection. Results. The electrophysiological results indicated that neuron overexcitation occurred in the KA-treated rats. This phenomenon could be reversed among either the auricular EA or ST36-ST37 EA treatment, but not in the sham-control rats. The Western blot results revealed that TRPA1, but not TRPV4, was upregulated by injecting KA and could be attenuated by administering auricular or ST36-ST37 EA, but not in the sham group. In addition, potentiation of TRPA1 was accompanied by increased PKCα and reduced PKCε. Furthermore, pERK1/2, which is indicated in inflammation, was also increased by KA. Furthermore, the aforementioned mechanisms could be reversed by administering auricular EA and could be partially reversed by ST36-ST37 EA. Conclusions. These results indicate a novel mechanism for treating inflammation-associated epilepsy and can be translated into clinical therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ed/cc/PMC4131505.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4073520", "abstract": "Background Fabry disease (FD) is a rare disorder and one of the causes of progressive renal and cardiac dysfunction. FD results from an X-linked recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by a defect in the gene encoding lysosomal α-galactosidase A. Although accumulation of globotriaosylceramide leads to renal and cardiac manifestations, the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Coronary microvascular dysfunction may be one of the causes of cardiac complications in FD. We aimed to assess coronary flow reserve (CFR) and the effect of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) on coronary microvascular dysfunction. Methods Four FD patients who had never received ERT were included. The serum asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) level, as a marker of endothelial dysfunction, was measured. Two-dimensional guided M-mode echocardiography was performed to measure left ventricular wall mass. Adenosine-triphosphate stress transthoracic Doppler echocardiography was used to measure CFR before starting ERT and at 3, 6 and 12 months. Results All the patients tolerated ERT without any side effects. At the baseline, two patients had impaired CFR, increased left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and elevated serum ADMA levels. Twelve months after starting ERT, CFR was increased in all patients, and LVMI and serum ADMA levels decreased in two patients. Furthermore, serum ADMA levels significantly correlated with CFR (r = −0.576, P < 0.05) and LVMI (r = 0.874, P < 0.0001). Conclusions The results suggest that ERT prevented the progression of cardiac abnormalities, possibly by improving coronary microvascular dysfunction. ADMA may be a useful surrogate marker in FD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b3/ea/sfs114.PMC4073520.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5451451", "abstract": "Intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) are a common form of reversible contraception owing to fewer systemic side effects and low cost, especially in a developing country like India. However, IUCDs are not without complications. Migration of a device into adjacent organs is the most morbid of all the documented complications. A patient who presents with a history that suggests loss or disappearance of an IUCD thread associated with urinary symptoms should raise suspicions that a device may have migrated into the bladder. Physicians should also be aware of possible secondary vesical calculus formation. Further radiological investigations and appropriate management are warranted. We present a case report describing the migration of an IUCD into the bladder with secondary calculus formation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/cb/kjfm-38-163.PMC5451451.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4241918", "abstract": "[Purpose] αB-crystallin is a small heat shock protein that acts as a molecular chaperone under various stress conditions. Microtubules, which consist of tubulin, are related to maintain the intracellular organelles and cellular morphology. These two proteins have been shown to be related to the properties of different types of myofibers based on their contractile properties. The response of these proteins during muscular atrophy, which induces a myofibril component change, is not clearly understood. [Methods] We performed 15 days of hindlimb unloading on rats to investigate the transitions of these proteins by analyzing their absolute quantities. Protein contents were analyzed in the soleus, plantaris, and gastrocnemius muscles of the unloading and control groups (N = 6). [Results] All three muscles were significantly atrophied by hindlimb unloading (P < 0.01): soleus (47.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/68/2f/jenb-18-2-161.PMC4241918.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1681454", "abstract": "Toward the goal of understanding system properties of biological networks, we investigate the global and local regulation of gene expression in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae metabolic network. Our results demonstrate predominance of local gene regulation in metabolism. Metabolic genes display significant coexpression on distances smaller than the average network distance, a behavior supported by the distribution of transcription factor binding sites in the metabolic network and genome context associations. Positive gene coexpression decreases monotonically with distance in the network, while negative coexpression is strongest at intermediate network distances. We show that basic topological motifs of the metabolic network exhibit statistically significant differences in coexpression behavior.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/db/bf/PMC1681454.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4655046", "abstract": " Background. In questing for a more refined quantitative research approach, we revisited vector autoregressive (VAR) modeling for the analysis of time series data in the context of the so far poorly explored concept of family dynamics surrounding instable diabetes type 1 (or brittle diabetes). Method. We adopted a new approach to VAR analysis from econometrics referred to as the optimized multivariate lag selection process and applied it to a set of raw data previously analyzed through standard approaches. Results. We illustrated recurring psychosomatic circles of cause and effect relationships between emotional and somatic parameters surrounding glycemic control of the child's diabetes and the affective states of all family members. Conclusion. The optimized multivariate lag selection process allowed for more specific, dynamic, and statistically reliable results (increasing R 2 tenfold in explaining glycemic variability), which were derived from a larger window of past explanatory variables (lags). Such highly quantitative versus historic more qualitative approaches to case study analysis of psychosomatics surrounding diabetes in adolescents were reflected critically.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f1/e4/PMC4655046.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4785266", "abstract": "IL-17 is a proinflammatory cytokine produced by various immune cells. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) are the first line of defense in bacterial infection and express surface Toll-like receptor 9 (sTLR9). To study the relationship of sTLR9 and IL-17 in PMNs during bacterial infection, we infected mice with E. coli intraperitoneally to establish a septic peritonitis model for studying the PMNs response in peritoneal cavity. We found that PMNs and some of “giant cells” were massively accumulated in the peritoneal cavity of mice with fatal septic peritonitis induced by E. coli. Kinetically, the CD11b+ PMNs were increased from 20–40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/8b/PMC4785266.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1775028", "abstract": "The quantitative analysis of VEGF using ELISA in various subtypes of grade I meningiomas reported higher VEGF contents in meningothelial (2.38 ± 0.62 pg/μg protein, n = 7), transitional (1.08 ± 0.21 pg/μg protein, n = 13), and microcystic meningiomas (1.98 ± 0.87 pg/μg protein, n = 5) as compared with fibrous ones (0.36 ± 0.09 pg/μg protein, n = 5). In contrast to VEGF, no difference in the concentrations of bFGF was detected. VEGF levels did not correlate with meningioma grade (1.47 ± 0.23 pg/μg versus 2.29 ± 0.58 pg/μg for 32 and 16 grade I and II, resp), vascularisation (1.53 ± 0.41 pg/μg versus 1.96 ± 0.28 pg/μg for 24 low and 24 high vascularisated tumours, resp), and brain invasion (2.32 ± 0.59 pg/μg versus 1.46 ± 0.27 pg/μg for 7 and 41 patients with and without invasion, resp). The ELISA procedure is, thus, an interesting tool to ensure VEGF and bFGF levels in meningiomas and to test putative correlations with clinical parameters. It is, thus, tempting to speculate that ELISA would also be valuable for the quantitative analysis of other angiogenic growth factors and cytokines in intracranial tumours.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f0/83/PMC1775028.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4927224", "abstract": "Abstract Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the associations of amino acids and other polar metabolites with metabolic syndrome (MetS) in postmenopausal women in a lean Asian population. Methods: The participants were 1,422 female residents enrolled in a cohort study from April to August 2012. MetS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III modified for Japanese women. Associations were examined between MetS and 78 metabolites assayed in fasting plasma samples using capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry. Replication analysis was performed to confirm the robustness of the results in a separate population created by random allocation. Results: Analysis was performed for 877 naturally postmenopausal women, including 594 in the original population and 283 in the replication population. The average age, body mass index, and levels of high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol of the entire population were 64.6 years, 23.0 kg/m2, 72.1 mg/dL, and 126.1 mg/dL, respectively. There was no significant difference in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels between women with and without MetS. Thirteen metabolites were significantly related to MetS: multiple plasma amino acids were elevated in women with MetS, including branched-chain amino acids, alanine, glutamate, and proline; and alpha-aminoadipate, which is generated by lysine degradation, was also significantly increased. Conclusions: Our large-scale metabolomic profiling indicates that Japanese postmenopausal women with MetS have abnormal polar metabolites, suggesting altered catabolic pathways. These results may help to understand metabolic disturbance, including in persons with normal body mass index and relatively high levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and may have clinical utility based on further studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/59/menop-23-749.PMC4927224.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2910856", "abstract": "OBJECTIVES: To compare the accuracy of tunnel placement and graft isometry for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction performed using a computer-assisted navigation system (Orthopilot) and using traditional instruments. METHODS: The anterior cruciate ligament was removed intact from 36 pairs of human cadaver knees. From each pair, one knee was randomized to Group 1 (conventional) and the other to Group 2 (Orthopilot). An inelastic suture was then passed through the central points of the tibial and femoral tunnels. Neither of the tunnels was drilled. All knees were then dissected, and six parameters were obtained: distances from the tibial tunnel center to the 1) posterior cruciate ligament, 2) anterior horn of the lateral meniscus and 3) medial tibial spine; 4) distance from the femoral tunnel center to the posterior femoral cortex; 5) femoral tunnel coronal angle; and 6) variation of the distance from the femoral to the tibial tunnel with the knee extended and at 90 degrees of flexion. RESULTS: The variation of the distance from the femoral to the tibial tunnel during flexion and extension was smaller in the Orthopilot group (better isometry) compared to the conventional group. There were no statistical differences in any other parameters between the groups, and all tunnels were considered to be in satisfactory positions. DISCUSSION: The results obtained for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction depend on precise isometric point positioning, and a navigation system is a precision tool that can assist surgeons in tunnel positioning. CONCLUSION: No differences in tunnel position were observed between the groups. Nonetheless, better isometry was achieved in the Orthopilot group than with conventional instruments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e8/25/cln_65p683.PMC2910856.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3312198", "abstract": "A modified direct contact test was used to evaluate the antibacterial properties of four commercially available dental luting agents (RelyX Unicem, Ketac Cem, Ceramir Crown     Bridge and Harvard Cement) and two reference materials (glass-ionomer cement and calcium aluminate cement) compared to a negative-control material (PMMA). Streptococcus mutans bacteria were placed in direct contact with specimens that had been aged for 10 min, 1 day, and 7 days, in order to test the antibacterial properties of the materials. A metabolic assay containing resazurin was used to quantify the amount of viable bacteria remaining after the direct contact tests. The effects of pH and fluoride on bacteria proliferation were also evaluated. Strongest antibacterial properties were found for calcium aluminate cement, followed by Ceramir Crown     Bridge and RelyX Unicem. Ketac Cem, Harvard Cement, and the reference glass-ionomer cement showed bacteria content either higher than or not significantly different from the PMMA control in all instances. pH levels below 6.3 and above 9.0 were found to have negative effects on bacterial proliferation. No correlation between either acidic materials or fluoride release and antibacterial properties could be seen; rather, basic materials showed stronger antibacterial properties.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/60/88/PMC3312198.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3948997", "abstract": "Sparganosis is a parasitic infection caused by the plerocercoid tapeworm larva of the genus Spirometra. Although the destination of the larva is often a tissue or muscle in the chest, abdominal wall, extremities, eyes, brain, urinary tract, spinal canal, and scrotum, intramuscular sparganosis is uncommon and therefore is difficult to distinguish from a soft tissue tumor. We report a case of intramuscular sparganosis involving the gastrocnemius muscle in an elderly patient who was diagnosed using ultrasonography and MRI and treated by surgical excision. At approximately 1 cm near the schwannoma at the right distal sciatic nerve, several spargana worms were detected and removed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/01/89/kjp-52-69.PMC3948997.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2842900", "abstract": "Selecting an appropriate matrix solution is one of the most effective means of increasing the ionization efficiency of phosphopeptides in matrix-assisted laser-desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). In this study, we systematically assessed matrix combinations of 2, 6-dihydroxyacetophenone (DHAP) and diammonium hydrogen citrate (DAHC), and demonstrated that the low ratio DHAP/DAHC matrix was more effective in enhancing the ionization of phosphopeptides. Low femtomole level of phosphopeptides from the tryptic digests of α-casein and β-casein was readily detected by MALDI-TOF-MS in both positive and negative ion mode without desalination or phosphopeptide enrichment. Compared with the DHB/PA matrix, the optimized DHAP/DAHC matrix yielded superior sample homogeneity and higher phosphopeptide measurement sensitivity, particularly when multiple phosphorylated peptides were assessed. Finally, the DHAP/DAHC matrix was applied to identify phosphorylation sites from α-casein and β-casein and to characterize two phosphorylation sites from the human histone H1 treated with Cyclin-Dependent Kinase-1 (CDK1) by MALDI-TOF/TOF MS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/99/PMC2842900.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4002132", "abstract": "Methyleugenol, the methyl ether of eugenol, both of which are flavorant constituents of spices, has been listed by the National Toxicology Program’s Report on Carcinogens as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. This finding is based on the observation of increased incidence of malignant tumors at multiple tissue sites in experimental animals of different species. By contrast, eugenol is not listed. In this study, we show that both methyleugenol and eugenol readily undergo peroxidative metabolism in vitro to form free radicals with large hyperfine interactions of the methylene allylic hydrogen atoms. These large hyperfine splittings indicate large electron densities adjacent to those hydrogen atoms. Methyleugenol undergoes autoxidation such that the commercial product contains 10–30 mg/L hydroperoxide and is capable of activating peroxidases without the presence of added hydrogen peroxide. Additionally, the hydroperoxide is not a good substrate for catalase, which demonstrates that these antioxidant defenses will not be effective in protecting against methyleugenol exposure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1d/63/PMC4002132.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1602201", "abstract": "Ipsilateral motor evoked potentials (MEPs) in spinal cord surgery intraoperative monitoring is not well studied. We show that ipsilateral MEPs have significantly larger amplitudes and were elicited with lower stimulation intensities than contralateral MEPs. The possible underlying mechanisms are discussed based on current knowledge of corticospinal pathways. Ipsilateral MEPs may provide additional information on the integrity of descending motor tracts during spinal surgery monitoring.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/0a/PMC1602201.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2686997", "abstract": "In early 2009, four human cases of cowpox virus cutaneous infection in northern France, resulting from direct contact with infected pet rats (Rattus norvegicus), were studied. Pet rats, originating from the same pet store, were shown to be infected by a unique virus strain. Infection was then transmitted to humans who purchased or had contact with pet rats.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9d/eb/PMC2686997.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3000141", "abstract": "Two human rabies cases caused by a bat-associated virus variant were identified in September 2001 in Costa Rica, after a 31-year absence of the disease in persons. Both patients lived in a rural area where cattle had a high risk for bat bites, but neither person had a definitive history of being bitten by a rabid animal. Characterization of the rabies viruses from the patients showed that the reservoir was the hematophagous Vampire Bat, Desmodus rotundus, and that a sick cat was the vector.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/15/24/PMC3000141.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3446102", "abstract": "Objective Gaucher's disease is a rare genetic disorder that results in the accumulation of cerebrosides in the liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs, brain and bone marrow. The deficiency of the specific lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase is considered as causative factor. The first effective treatment for the disease, the drug Ceredase, approved in 1995, was replaced in 2001 by the drug Cerezyme®. Methods During the period 2004-2009 in our service 11 children were hospitalized and treated for Gaucher's disease: 9 children with type 1, and 2 children with type 3 of the disease. The enzymatic examinations of the biomarker chitotriosidase were performed in Sahlgren's University Hospital, Mölndal Sweden; the DNA analysis was performed in the Children's Hospital     Regional Medical Center, Seattle, USA. Findings We are presenting the biological and genetic molecular data of the children. In our case series, one year after the treatment started, the hemoglobin level was normalized; the platelet count was normalized in 7 patients after one year of treatment, and in 9 patients after two years of treatment. The hemorrhagic syndrome stopped after 6 months of treatment. Chitotriosidase values decreased 10-20 times the initial value, after one year of treatment and in one case the value reached the normal range. The treatment with Cerezyme® has also improved the visceral and biological signs. Anomalies of the oculomotricity were less sensitive to the treatment. Conclusion According to our experience, Chitotriosidase is a sensitive and specific marker in diagnosing and monitoring Gaucher's disease. The enzyme replacement therapy through Cerezyme® is an effective and safe treatment of Gaucher's disease. Blood signs (anemia, platelet count); visceral signs (splenomegaly, hepatomegaly) as well as bone involvement showed decisive improvement under the therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/af/05/IJPD-21-001.PMC3446102.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3376050", "abstract": "Neuronal polarization, the process by which neurons form multiple dendrites and an axon from the soma, is the first critical step in the formation and function of neural networks. Polarization begins with the rapid extension of a single neurite to produce an axon of impressive size and complex geometry, while the remaining sister neurites differentiate into dendrites. The extensive biosynthesis required to produce an axon therefore necessitates coordination with cellular energy status to ensure an ample energy supply. Our recent work shows that activity of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), the bio-energy sensor responsible for maintaining cellular energy homeostasis in all eukaryotic cells, plays an important role in the initiation of axonal growth. AMPK phosphorylates the cargo-binding light chain of the Kif5 motor protein, leading to dissociation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K) from the motor complex. The mislocation of PI3K, which is normally enriched at the axonal tip for extension and differentiation, results in a lack of neurite specification and neuron polarization. These findings reveal a link between cellular bioenergy homeostasis and neuron morphogenesis, and suggest a novel cellular mechanism underlying the long-term neurological abnormalities as a consequence of bioenergy deficiency during early brain development.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/18/19/cib-5-152.PMC3376050.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3574991", "abstract": "Objective Sleep problems are experienced by 25-30 percent of children and adolescents, regardless of age. The purpose of this study was to investigate if there is any relationship between gender or school entrance and sleep complaints. Methods From June 2008 to May 2009 children aged 2 to 12 years were selected by clustered randomization of families. The Persian version of the BEARS questionnaire (Bedtime problems, Excessive sleepiness, Awakenings during the night, Regularity of sleep, Snoring) with five domains was filled out by general pediatricians. Prevalence of sleep complaints in each B-E-A-R-S category was calculated and compared for pre-school and school-age groups. Findings BEARS questionnaire was completed for a total of 746 children (2-12 years old); 325 in pre-school-age group (2-6 years old) (142 females [43.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/a0/IJPD-23-045.PMC3574991.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4700679", "abstract": "Background: Qualitative research focuses on social world and provides the tools to study health phenomena from the perspective of those experiencing them. Identifying the problem, forming the question, and selecting an appropriate methodology and design are some of the initial challenges that researchers encounter in the early stages of any research project. These problems are particularly common for novices. Materials and Methods: This article describes the practical challenges of using qualitative inquiry in the field of health and the challenges of performing an interpretive research based on professional experience as a qualitative researcher and on available literature. Results: One of the main topics discussed is the nature of qualitative research, its inherent challenges, and how to overcome them. Some of those highlighted here include: identification of the research problem, formation of the research question/aim, and selecting an appropriate methodology and research design, which are the main concerns of qualitative researchers and need to be handled properly. Insights from real-life experiences in conducting qualitative research in health reveal these issues. Conclusions: The paper provides personal comments on the experiences of a researcher in conducting pure qualitative research in the field of health. It offers insights into the practical difficulties encountered when performing qualitative studies and offers solutions and alternatives applied by these authors, which may be of use to others.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/28/8c/IJNMR-20-635.PMC4700679.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897060", "abstract": "A simple, accurate, rapid, and stability-indicating RP-HPLC method for a combination of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, emtricitabine, and rilpivirine has been developed and subsequently validated in commercial tablets. The proposed HPLC method utilizes Phenomenex Gemini C18 column (150 mm × 4.6 mm i.d., 5 µm) and mobile phase consisting of MeCN, potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer (20 mM, pH 3.3), and triethylamine 58.72 : 41.23 : 0.05 (v/v) at a flow rate of 1.7 mL/min. Quantitation was achieved with UV detection at 270 nm. The method was validated in terms of accuracy, precision, linearity, limits of detection, limits of quantitation, and robustness. This optimized method has been successively applied to pharmaceutical formulation and no interference from the tablet excipients was found. TDF, EMT, and RPV and their combination drug product were subjected to acid, base, neutral hydrolysis, oxidation, dry heat, and photolytic stress conditions and the stressed samples were analyzed by the proposed method. As the proposed LC method could effectively separate the drugs from its degradation products, it can be employed as stability-indicating method for the determination of instability of these drugs in bulk and commercial tablets. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/eb/PMC4897060.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4584027", "abstract": "Introduction: Traumatic lumbar spondylolisthesis is rare disease and in the literature, different surgical approaches, including anterior, posterior, or combined approaches (posterior and anterior) are used to treat the lesion. Case Presentation: We treated a case of traumatic lumbosacral spondylolisthesis using posterior approach and the patient showed a satisfactory outcome. At the final follow-up, he was completely asymptomatic, and radiographic images revealed normal lumbar alignment and a solid interbody fusion. Conclusions: Traumatic lumbosacral spondylolisthesis can be treated using posterior approach alone to obtain reduction, decompression, and solid fusion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/16/99/ircmj-17-07-13870.PMC4584027.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5103774", "abstract": "In the present study, the case of a 54-year-old male patient diagnosed with pulmonary histoplasmosis is reported, with the aim to increase the understanding of the disease characteristics and thereby facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary histoplasmosis. Clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment and clinical outcomes of the present case of pulmonary histoplasmosis were described. In addition, 76 histoplasmosis patients with complete clinical data were reviewed by searching the literature for relevant studies published during 1990 and 2015. The disease was mainly manifested as cough in the present case, while imaging examination detected a lump shadow in the right lung, accompanied by exudative lesions. Initially, the patient was suspected to have bacterial pneumonia, but subsequently the diagnosis of pulmonary histoplasmosis was confirmed by lung biopsy. The symptoms were alleviated following itraconazole treatment. The patient was physically stable and had no recurrence during the subsequent follow-up period. In conclusion, pulmonary histoplasmosis is characterized by non-specific clinical and imaging manifestations, and lung tissue biopsy or respiratory pathogen culture are regarded as the diagnostic gold standards. Individualized antifungal medication should be administered based upon the patients' situation in terms of dosage and duration.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/b4/etm-12-05-3256.PMC5103774.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5094526", "abstract": "Aim of database The Danish Gynecological Cancer Database (DGCD) is a nationwide clinical cancer database and its aim is to monitor the treatment quality of Danish gynecological cancer patients, and to generate data for scientific purposes. DGCD also records detailed data on the diagnostic measures for gynecological cancer. Study population DGCD was initiated January 1, 2005, and includes all patients treated at Danish hospitals for cancer of the ovaries, peritoneum, fallopian tubes, cervix, vulva, vagina, and uterus, including rare histological types. Main variables DGCD data are organized within separate data forms as follows: clinical data, surgery, pathology, pre- and postoperative care, complications, follow-up visits, and final quality check. DGCD is linked with additional data from the Danish “Pathology Registry”, the “National Patient Registry”, and the “Cause of Death Registry” using the unique Danish personal identification number (CPR number). Descriptive data Data from DGCD and registers are available online in the Statistical Analysis Software portal. The DGCD forms cover almost all possible clinical variables used to describe gynecological cancer courses. The only limitation is the registration of oncological treatment data, which is incomplete for a large number of patients. Conclusion The very complete collection of available data from more registries form one of the unique strengths of DGCD compared to many other clinical databases, and provides unique possibilities for validation and completeness of data. The success of the DGCD is illustrated through annual reports, high coverage, and several peer-reviewed DGCD-based publications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/a6/clep-8-485.PMC5094526.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5160133", "abstract": "Objectives The established theory that breast density is an independent predictor of breast cancer risk is based on studies targeting white women in the West. More Asian women than Western women have dense breasts, but the incidence of breast cancer is lower among Asian women. This meta-analysis investigated the association between breast density in mammography and breast cancer risk in Asian women. Methods PubMed and Scopus were searched, and the final date of publication was set as December 31, 2015. The effect size in each article was calculated using the interval-collapse method. Summary effect sizes (sESs) and 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/25/61/jpmph-49-6-367.PMC5160133.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3317270", "abstract": "Without therapeutic intervention acute liver failure (ALF) is the consequence of a progredient destruction of the liver parenchyma due to metabolic exhaustion of the hepatocytes. Perivenous hepatocytes are responsible for the detoxification of noxious compounds via the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. Liver transplantation is the only remaining therapeutic option in the end-stage of the disease. Assuming that metabolic capacity could be provided by healthy hepatocytes and thus substitute for the genuine parenchymal cells hepatocyte transplantation since quite some time is considered to be an alternative to whole liver transplantation. While this hypothesis achieved proof-of-concept in animal trials clinical breakthrough is still awaiting success, the reasons of which are ongoing matter of debate. In recent times mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) came into focus as a transplantable cell source to treat ALF. Interestingly, as demonstrated in various rodent animal models their mode of action is rather based on trophic support of hepatocytes remaining in the damaged host parenchyma rather than substitution of tissue loss. Mechanistically, either direct or indirect paracrine effects from the transplanted cells acting pro-proliferative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory seem to trigger the regenerative response of the residual healthy hepatocytes in the otherwise lethally injured liver parenchyma. Thus, allogeneic MSC may be the best choice for the treatment of ALF taking advantage of their short-term benefit to sustain the critical phase of the acute insult avoiding long-term immunosuppression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fb/b7/fphys-03-00078.PMC3317270.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2994690", "abstract": "STATEMENT OF PROBLEM Zirconia-based restorations have the common technical complication of delamination, or porcelain chipping, from the zirconia core. Thus the shear bond strength between the zirconia core and the veneering porcelain requires investigation in order to facilitate the material's clinical use. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the bonding strength of the porcelain veneer to the zirconia core and to other various metal alloys (high noble metal alloy and base metal alloy). MATERIAL AND METHODS 15 rectangular (4×4×9mm) specimens each of zirconia (Cercon), base metal alloy (Tillite), high noble metal alloy (Degudent H) were fabricated for the shear bond strength test. The veneering porcelain recommended by the manufacturer for each type of material was fired to the core in thickness of 3mm. After firing, the specimens were embedded in the PTFE mold, placed on a mounting jig, and subjected to shear force in a universal testing machine. Load was applied at a crosshead speed of 0.5mm/min until fracture. The average shear strength (MPa) was analyzed with the one-way ANOVA and the Tukey's test (α= .05). The fractured specimens were examined using SEM and EDX to determine the failure pattern. RESULTS The mean shear strength (± SD) in MPa was 25.43 (± 3.12) in the zirconia group, 35.87 (± 4.23) in the base metal group, 38.00 (± 5.23) in the high noble metal group. The ANOVA showed a significant difference among groups, and the Tukey's test presented a significant difference between the zirconia group and the metal group. Microscopic examination showed that the failure primarily occurred near the interface with the residual veneering porcelain remaining on the core. CONCLUSION There was a significant difference between the metal ceramic and zirconia ceramic group in shear bond strength. There was no significant difference between the base metal alloy and the high noble metal alloy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/2c/jap-1-129.PMC2994690.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4792989", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of different marathon running distances (10 km, 21 km, and 42.195 km) on muscle and lymphocyte DNA damage in amateur marathon runners. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty male amateur runners were randomly assigned to 10 km, 21 km, and 42 km groups, with 10 subjects in each group. Blood samples were collected before and after the races and on the 3rd day of recovery to examine levels of muscle damage (creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase) and lymphocyte DNA damage (DNA in the tail, tail length, and tail moment). [Results] Serum creatine kinase, serum lactate dehydrogenase, and tail moment were significantly higher after the races compared with before the races in all groups. In addition, the 42 km group showed significantly higher levels of creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, and tail moment than the 10 km and 21 km groups after the races. [Conclusion] Strenuous endurance exercise can cause muscle and lymphocyte DNA damage, and the extent of such damage can increase as running distance increases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b5/d7/jpts-28-450.PMC4792989.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4818341", "abstract": "Macrophages are important mediators of tumor progression and their function is broadly influenced by different microenvironmental stimuli. To understand the molecular basis of the tumor-supporting role of macrophages in aggressive breast cancer we co-cultured human peripheral monocytes with two breast cancer cell lines representing distinct aggressive cellular phenotype and transcriptionally profiled the changes occurring in both cells during in vitro activated crosstalk. Here we provide a detailed description of the experimental design, sample identity and analysis of the Illumina RNA-Seq data, which have been deposited into Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO): GSE75130.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fb/67/main.PMC4818341.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4905508", "abstract": "Cancer research has been significantly accelerated by viewing cancer as a functional collision between 2 dichotomous sets of genes: oncogenes and tumor suppressors. Signaling pathways turn oncogenes and tumor suppressors on and off to dictate cell fate decisions. We contend that signaling also dictates opposing behaviors of a given effector.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/a8/kmco-02-03-995006.PMC4905508.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4500894", "abstract": "A 61-year-old female with a past medical history significant for von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) syndrome presented with multiple bilateral pulmonary lesions found on surveillance computed tomography scan. Positron emission tomography demonstrated avidity in a lesion in the right upper lobe. After an equivocal biopsy, a lobectomy via a thoracoscopic approach was performed as this lesion was concerning for a primary lung cancer. Pathology revealed a diagnosis of pulmonary mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a pulmonary MALT lymphoma in a patient with VHL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d0/3a/rjv080.PMC4500894.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649521", "abstract": "We report successful treatment of colocutanteous stulae at the site of a benign colonic anastomotic stricture using Self-Expandable Metal Stents (SEMS) and Percutaneous Ethanol Injection (PEI). The stricture and the secondary stulae developed after Hartmann’s procedure for sigmoid diverticular abscess followed by reversal of the Hartmann’s procedure with a de-functioning loop ileostomy. Although there have been previously reported cases of SEMS for closure of malignant colonic stula, there are limited reports of SEMS for closure of benign colonic stulae and none of SEMS combined with PEI for benign colonic fistula. We conclude that this patient’s case exemplies the potential applications of SEMS combined with PEI as a feasible option of therapy for benign colorectal disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/21/8e/PMC3649521.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4451777", "abstract": "Currently, protein interaction of Homo sapiens nucleotide binding domain (NBD) of heat shock 70 kDa protein (PDB: 1HJO) with p53 motif remains to be elucidated. The NBD-p53 motif complex enhances the p53 stabilization, thereby increasing the tumor suppression activity in cancer treatment. Therefore, we identified the interaction between NBD and p53 using STRING version 9.1 program. Then, we modeled the three-dimensional structure of p53 motif through homology modeling and determined the binding affinity and stability of NBD-p53 motif complex structure via molecular docking and dynamics (MD) simulation. Human DNA binding domain of p53 motif (SCMGGMNR) retrieved from UniProt (UniProtKB: P04637) was docked with the NBD protein, using the Autodock version 4.2 program. The binding energy and intermolecular energy for the NBD-p53 motif complex were −0.44 Kcal/mol and −9.90 Kcal/mol, respectively. Moreover, RMSD, RMSF, hydrogen bonds, salt bridge, and secondary structure analyses revealed that the NBD protein had a strong bond with p53 motif and the protein-ligand complex was stable. Thus, the current data would be highly encouraging for designing Hsp70 structure based drug in cancer therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/21/24/PMC4451777.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4861609", "abstract": "Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the most prevalent health problems in the world. Official registration of HCV infections in the Russian Federation started in 1994. Two clinical forms of infection – acute and chronic hepatitis C – are registered separately. Moreover, the HCV national surveillance system also includes reports from laboratories on results from testing ∼20 population risk groups for antibodies to HCV; approximately 15–16 million tests are performed annually. Modern epidemiological features of HCV infection in the Russian Federation are characterized by low incidence of the acute form of infection (acute HCV; one to two per 100,000) and a dramatic increase in chronic HCV (CHCV) cases. In 2013, the average nationwide rate of newly detected CHCV cases was 39.3/100,000. In the same year, the prevalence of CHCV demonstrating an accumulation of chronically infected patients in the country was much higher – 335.8/100,000. Four risk groups were identified as greatly affected by HCV, which were demonstrated by a high prevalence of antibodies to HCV: newborns from chronically infected women, persons from correctional facilities, patients with chronic liver diseases, and clients from clinics for sexually transmitted disease patients and drug users. It was found that several HCV genotypes circulated in different regions of the country; HCV1b had a prevalence of 55", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/4c/hmer-8-051.PMC4861609.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3988443", "abstract": "Testicular adrenal rest tumors (TART) occur often as asymptomatic nodules in corticotropin-dependent lesions aberrant adrenal tissue in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) patients. The present manuscript is about an unusual case of a 16-year-old CAH patient due to 11β-hydroxylase deficiency. He underwent testicle biopsy because of testicle tumor suspicion and diagnosed with TART.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/83/aa/kju-55-292.PMC3988443.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3132544", "abstract": "Recent advances have been made in defining the genetic and molecular basis of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLBs) and related neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) which comprise the spectrum of “Lewy body disorders” (LBDs). The genetic alterations and underlying disease mechanisms in the LBD overlap substantially, suggesting common disease mechanisms. As with the other neurodegenerative dementias, early diagnosis in LBD or even identification prior to symptom onset is key to developing effective therapeutic strategies, but this is dependent upon the development of robust, specific, and sensitive biomarkers as diagnostic tools and therapeutic endpoints. Recently identified mutations in the synucleins and other relevant genes in PD and DLB as well as related biomolecular pathways suggest candidate markers from biological fluids and imaging modalities that reflect the underlying disease mechanisms. In this context, several promising biomarkers for the LBD have already been identified and examined, while other intriguing possible candidates have recently emerged. Challenges remain in defining their correlation with pathological processes and their ability to detect DLB and related disorders, and perhaps a combined array of biomarkers may be needed to distinguish various LBDs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/49/ce/PMC3132544.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2839990", "abstract": "When BRCA1/2 genetic susceptibility testing was introduced in the clinic in the mid-nineties, the \"Huntington protocol\" was used in the counselling of individuals applying for genetic testing. This protocol includes at least three sessions with a certain reflection period before blood sampling. Evidence on the psychological impact of BRCA1/2 genetic susceptibility testing has been accumulating in the last years. We will give a short overview of these psychological studies in order to reflect the need of using the extensive Huntington protocol in the counselling of individuals applying for BRCA1/2 genetic susceptibility testing. A shortened and more flexible BRCA1/2 counselling protocol is delineated, in which the attention is focused on the needs and strengths of the individual.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/73/d2/PMC2839990.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4427629", "abstract": "While the significance of obesity as a serious health problem is well recognized, little is known about whether and how biometerological factors and biorhythms causally contribute to obesity. Obesity is often associated with altered seasonal and daily rhythmicity in food intake, metabolism and adipose tissue function. Environmental stimuli affect both seasonal and daily rhythms, and the latter are under additional control of internal molecular oscillators, or body clocks. Modifications of clock genes in animals and changes to normal daily rhythms in humans (as in shift work and sleep deprivation) result in metabolic dysregulation that favours weight gain. Here, we briefly review the potential links between biorhythms and obesity in humans.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/22/03/PMC4427629.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4433971", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study examined the selective electromyographic activity of the lumbar paraspinal muscles in healthy male and female subjects in the prone trunk extension (PTE) and four-point kneeling arm and leg lift (FPKAL) exercises to determine the most beneficial exercise for selective activation of the lumbar multifidus (LM). [Subjects and Methods] Twenty healthy male and female subjects participated in this study. Surface electromyographic data were collected from the left-side lumbar erector spinae (LES) and LM muscles during PTE and FPKAL exercises. [Results] The LM/LES ratio related to selective activation of the lumbar paraspinal muscles during the FPKAL exercise was higher than that during PTE. [Conclusion] FPKAL exercise is safe and effective for the selective activation of the LM muscle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4e/ab/jpts-27-1037.PMC4433971.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2933904", "abstract": "An 11-year-old girl presented to our department to have a second opinion regarding a lesion involving her left mandible. She had previously undergone several radiographic exams including panoramic, helical, and cone-beam computed tomography. Radiographic examinations revealed a well-defined radiolucent region, which contained an irregular radiopaque mass of 3 cm in diameter, localized to the left angle of the mandible. Our presumptive diagnosis was complex odontoma. Excisional biopsy was performed, and microscopic features showed strands and islands of odontogenic epithelium showing peripheral palisading and loosely arranged central cells, identical to stellate reticulum, embedded in a myxoid cell-rich stroma resembling the dental papilla. Dentin and enamel were also presented. The diagnosis was ameloblastic fibro-odontoma, which is a rare mixed odontogenic tumor, derived from epithelial and ectomesenchymal elements that form the dental tissues.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4b/cd/PMC2933904.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4436869", "abstract": "The objective is to examine the risk of dementia in subjects with essential tremor (ET) involved in the Arizona Study of Aging and Neurodegenerative Disorders. All subjects were free of a neurodegenerative diagnosis at baseline and had annual motor, general neurological, and neuropsychological assessments. Subjects with ET were compared with controls for the risk of dementia. There were 83 subjects with ET and 424 subjects without tremor. Mean age at study entry was 80 ± 5.9 for ET and 76 ± 8.5 for controls. Median tremor duration was 5.2 years at study entry. Followup was a median of 5.4 years (range 0.9 to 12.1). The hazard ratio for the association between ET and dementia was 0.79 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/03/b7/PMC4436869.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3392916", "abstract": "Purpose To compare the surgical outcomes of the Ex-PRESS glaucoma filtration device in African American and white glaucoma patients. Design Retrospective comparative case series. Methods This was a comparative case series of 36 eyes of 36 African Americans and 43 eyes of 43 whites that underwent placement of the Ex-PRESS glaucoma filtration device under a partial-thickness scleral flap for uncontrolled glaucoma. All eyes received intraoperative mitomycin C. The primary outcome measures were intraocular pressure (IOP), number of postoperative glaucoma medications, and surgical success. Surgical success was defined as IOP between 5 and 18 mm Hg, with or without glaucoma medications, without further glaucoma surgery, or loss of light perception vision. Results Average follow-up was 31.9 ± 9.8 (range, 14.6–47) months for African Americans and 30.7 ± 8.6 (range, 14.3–47) months for whites. At 33 months, surgical success was 80.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a8/3c/PMC3392916.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5018589", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a poorly understood, debilitating disorder characterized by severe chronic pain in an affected limb or region of the body. This case presentation is the first to describe the effectiveness and prolonged duration of the effect of liposome bupivacaine in stellate ganglion block for CRPS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/db/64/CCR3-4-861.PMC5018589.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4371373", "abstract": "In development and disease, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) regulates the expansion of the vascular tree. In response to hypoxia, VEGF promotes new capillary formation through the process of angiogenesis by inducing endothelial cell sprouting, proliferation, and migration. Wound healing, tissue regeneration, and tumor growth depend on angiogenesis for adequate nutrient and oxygen delivery. Under different conditions, VEGF promotes arterial growth, modulates lumen expansion, and induces collateral vessel formation, events collectively referred to as arteriogenesis. Induction of arteriogenesis after cardiac or cerebral arterial occlusion can reduce ischemia and improve disease outcome. Endothelial VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) signaling governs both processes. However, modulation of downstream VEGF signaling effectors, such as extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation, differs in order to achieve angiogenic versus arteriogenic outcomes. Recent reports show that neuropilin 1 (NRP1), a VEGF receptor, can instill VEGF signaling outcomes that specifically regulate either angiogenesis or arteriogenesis. Here, we discuss how NRP1 functions as a VEGFR2 co-receptor in angiogenesis and a modulator of VEGFR2 trafficking in arteriogenesis. The unique role played by neuropilin in different endothelial processes makes it an exciting therapeutic target to specifically enhance angiogenesis or arteriogenesis in disease settings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/eb/d2/biolrep-07-26.PMC4371373.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1082887", "abstract": "Anthocyanins are polyphenolic ring-based flavonoids, and are widespread in fruits and vegetables of red-blue color. Epidemiological investigations and animal experiments have indicated that anthocyanins may contribute to cancer chemoprevention. The studies on the mechanism have been done recently at molecular level. This review summarizes current molecular bases for anthocyanidins on several key steps involved in cancer chemoprevention: (i) inhibition of anthocyanidins in cell transformation through targeting mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and activator protein 1 (AP-1) factor; (ii) suppression of anthocyanidins in inflammation and carcinogenesis through targeting nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) gene; (iii) apoptotic induction of cancer cells by anthocyanidins through reactive oxygen species (ROS) / c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK)-mediated caspase activation. These data provide a first molecular view of anthocyanidins contributing to cancer chemoprevention.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/11/81/PMC1082887.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5162407", "abstract": "Background Diabetic kidney disease is the leading cause of stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) in India. Renal replacement therapy (RRT) is accessible to very few patients because of socioeconomic deprivation. We studied the effect of diabetes and socioeconomic status on the outcome of patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). Methods We retrospectively analyzed the outcome of 897 patients (629 males/268 females; mean age ± standard deviation 48.69 ± 14.27 years) initiated on MHD from 2003 to 2009 at five dialysis centers in south India. There were 335 type 2 diabetic patients and 562 non-diabetic patients. Group 1 comprised the self-paying patients (518 patients) and Group 2 included the TANKER Foundation charity dialysis patients (379 patients). We compared the 5-year survival rates of Group 1 versus Group 2 and also those of diabetic versus non-diabetic patients, using the Kaplan–Meier survival estimator. Results Of the 897 patients, 166 patients survived, 350 died, 234 were lost to follow-up, 137 had renal transplantation and 10 patients were transferred to peritoneal dialysis. The 5-year survival rates after censoring were 20.7 and 38.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/99/sfw069.PMC5162407.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3774956", "abstract": " Objectives. The aim of this study was to evaluate human leukocyte antigen (HLA) involvement in the disease expression and poor prognostic clinical features (pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary arterial hypertension) in patients diagnosed with systemic sclerosis (SSc) in a multiethnic population. Methods. SSc patients followed up between 2008 and 2011 were included, and clinical data were obtained through records review. Molecular HLA typing was performed (polymerase chain reaction amplification technique using specific primer sequences). The statistical analysis involved Fisher's exact test and Pearson's corrected chi-square test. P  values ≤ 0.05 were considered significant. The delta method was used to estimate the variance of the prevalence ratio (PR). Results. A total of 141 patients (120 women and 21 men) with SSc were studied, including 33.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7f/7e/PMC3774956.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3881620", "abstract": "Background: The objectives of this work were to study the association of maternal smoking habits with stillbirths, abortions, neonatal deaths, birth weights, placental weights and the outcomes on the 28th day of life. Methods: A questionnaire was developed and completed with the hospitals’ recorded data collected over a period of 5 years from 47,000 babies born in several hospitals in Ontario, Canada. The mothers were classified into four categories: non-smokers, light smokers (less than 10 cigarettes per day), moderate smokers (between 10 and 19 cigarettes per day) and heavy smokers (20 or more cigarettes per day). The population surveyed was of mixed ethnicity from both rural and urban areas. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS statistical package. Results: Even the light smoking habit has an effect on the birth weight and the placental weight but for other characteristics, stillbirth, abortion, and the outcomes on the 28th day of life, no significant difference observed between light smokers and non-smokers. Conclusion: While quit smoking must be the ultimate goal for any smoker, the present study concludes that moderate and heavy smokers, if they will not be able to quit, they should reduce their number of cigarettes per day to at least the level of light smokers to achieve the same results for non-smokers. All characteristics show significant difference between non-smokers and moderate and heavy smokers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/0f/ijph-42-748.PMC3881620.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1581459", "abstract": " Background. This study was undertaken to determine whether rubella immunity infers measles immunity in pregnant women. Methods. Stored serum samples were obtained from the Iowa State Hygienic Laboratory for evaluation of rubella and measles immunities with IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results. Nine hundred serum samples were obtained for testing. The average age of the women at the time of antepartum serum collection was 28 (range, 14 to 44) years. Measles and rubella immunity were 88", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/02/88/PMC1581459.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4100224", "abstract": "Lesson Amyloidosis is a rare differential diagnosis of a mass detected in the chest. Amyloidoma is caused by a local proliferation of clonal B-cells secreting an unstable immunoglobulin light chain which accumulates. FDG-PET scan are useful but not specific. Treatment is generally by local resection for treatment of symptoms. We report two cases of amyloidomas, which are rare entities characterised by large local amyloid deposits. These can occur in the upper respiratory tract, soft tissues and central nervous system. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c5/77/10.1177_2054270414527280.PMC4100224.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4637105", "abstract": "Mosquito-borne flaviviruses are important pathogens for humans, and the detection of two or more flaviviruses cocirculating in the same geographic area has often been reported. However, the epidemiological impact remains to be determined. Mosquito-borne flaviviruses are primarily transmitted through Aedes and Culex mosquitoes; these viruses establish a life-long or persistent infection without apparent pathological effects. This establishment requires a balance between virus replication and the antiviral host response. Viral interference is a phenomenon whereby one virus inhibits the replication of other viruses, and this condition is frequently associated with persistent infections. Viral interference and persistent infection are determined by several factors, such as defective interfering particles, competition for cellular factors required for translation/replication, and the host antiviral response. The interaction between two flaviviruses typically results in viral interference, indicating that these viruses share common features during the replicative cycle in the vector. The potential mechanisms involved in these processes are reviewed here.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bd/65/PMC4637105.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3618041", "abstract": "It has been reported that many colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with synchronous or metachronous liver metastases underwent surgery subsequent to neoadjuvant combination chemotherapy with folinic acid, fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX), folinic acid, fluorouracil, and irinotecan (FOLFIRI), or capecitabine and oxaliplatin (XELOX). However, there are very few reports of the use of capecitabine and irinotecan (XELIRI). We herein report a successfully resected case of recurrent lung and liver metastases of rectal cancer treated with combination chemotherapy with XELIRI + bevacizumab (BV) therapy. A 63-year-old male developed recurrence of a solitary nodule in the right lower lobe of the lung and multiple liver metastases after low anterior resection for rectal cancer 1 year previously. Partial resection of the right lower lobe of the lung was performed and treatment with XELIRI + BV was initiated. A computed tomography scan revealed a reduction in tumor size without any new lesions after four cycles of XELIRI + BV therapy. Partial hepatectomy of S1, S5, and S7 was safely performed. The patient is now undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy and has been free from recurrence for 18 months following surgery. There are only few studies with relatively low patient numbers reporting on the outcome after resection of both pulmonary and hepatic metastases of CRC. We therefore report a patient who underwent sequential resection of pulmonary and hepatic metastases with XELIRI + BV therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/c3/cro-0006-0143.PMC3618041.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2948302", "abstract": "Owing to the success of biologics in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), several novel drugs have been introduced in the therapeutic armamentarium, although not all of them have been approved in all countries worldwide. Among the drugs are tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors such as certolizumab pegol and golimumab (the latter of which was the first TNF blocker shown to be effective in patients who had been unsuccessfully treated with other TNF blockers and which can be applied only once a month), and the interleukin-6 receptor antagonist tocilizumab, which not only opens up a completely new field of anti-inflammatory modulation of RA pathophysiology, but also highlights the challenge of novel potential side effects. Moreover, aside from clinical studies showing efficacy in the inhibition of osteoclast activation by the anti-RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand) antibody denosumab, an improved form of steroid application known as slow-release ‘tempus tablet’ for treatment of RA and several developments in the small-molecule area have been addressed by clinical trials.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b6/c0/1757-5931-0001-0000000068.PMC2948302.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3328998", "abstract": "Despite the considerable number of women in the United States who identify as lesbian, few data exist that address lesbians' health needs. The Institute of Medicine emphasized that data on sexually transmitted infections, Pap smear screening, and cervical dysplasia among lesbians were needed to guide clinical practice, policy development, and patient education. Use of surveillance data for this purpose is limited because risk classifications exclude same-gender sex among women or subsume it under behavior considered as higher risk. However, sexual transmission of human papillomavirus, HIV, Treponema pallidum, and Trichomonas vaginalis between women has been reported. Data indicate that lesbians receive routine Pap smear screening less frequently than is optimal. Moreover, lesbians commonly report previous pregnancy, induced abortion, and hormonal contraceptive use. Education of lesbians and their care providers should counter assumptions that sex between women confers no risk for transmission of sexually transmitted infections, and lesbians should receive Pap smears according to current guidelines.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/65/PMC3328998.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4540836", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to determine the effect of application of a metatarsal bar on the pressure in the metatarsal bones of the foot using a foot analysis system (pressure on the forefoot, midfoot, and rearfoot). [Subjects and Methods] Forty female university students in their twenties were selected for this study, and an experiment was conducted with them as the subjects, before and after application of a metatarsal bar. The static foot regions were divided into the forefoot, midfoot, and rearfoot, and then the maximum, average, and low pressures exerted at each region were measured, along with the static foot pressure distribution ratio. 1) Static foot pressure: The tips of both feet were aligned to match the vertical and horizontal lines of the foot pressure measuring plate. The subjects were told to look toward the front and not to wear shoes. 2) Distribution ratio: The distribution ratio was measured in four regions (front, back, left, and right) using the same method as used for static foot pressure measurement. [Results] The results of this study showed that the maximum, average, and minimum static pressures in the forefoot were significantly decreased. The minimum static pressure in the midfoot was significantly increased, and the pressure in the other parts was significantly decreased. The maximum and average static pressures in the rearfoot were also significantly decreased. [Conclusion] As reduction of foot pressure with a metatarsal bar results in lowering of the arch and an increased contact surface, the foot pressure was dispersed. These results suggest that wearing shoes with a bar that can decrease the foot pressure is therapeutically helpful for patients with a diabetic foot lesion or rheumatoid arthritis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5d/75/jpts-27-2143.PMC4540836.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4876801", "abstract": "Understanding the complex interplay between cells and their biomechanics and how the interplay is influenced by the extracellular microenvironment, as well as how the transforming potential of a tissue from a benign to a cancerous one is related to the dynamics of both the cell and its surroundings, holds promise for the development of targeted translational therapies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of atomic force microscopy-based technology and its applications for identification of cellular progression to a cancerous phenotype. The review also offers insights into the advancements that are required for the next user-controlled tool to allow for the identification of early cell transformation and thus potentially lead to improved therapeutic outcomes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d3/7d/ijn-11-2107.PMC4876801.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4736075", "abstract": "Background: Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure has been one of the major inducers of apoptosis. UV exposure has caused pyrimidine dimers and DNA fragmentation which might lead to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis signals activation. UV induced apoptosis has investigated in MDA-MB 468 as an ER negative breast adenocarcinoma and MCF-7 as an ER positive breast cancer cell line. Apoptosis induction rate by UV might be different in these two types of cells due to different biological characteristics of the cell. Objectives: In this paper we have evaluated serial dose of UV-B exposure on ER positive and ER negative breast cancer cell lines and its effect on apoptosis or necrosis induction in these cells. Materials and Methods: MDA-MB468 and MCF-7 cell lines have cultured for 24 hours and UV exposure has carried out at 290 nm at dose of 154 J/m2 to 18 KJ/m2 using UV lamp. UV exposed cells have incubated in cell culture condition for 24 or 48 hours following UV exposure and the cells have stained and analyzed by flow cytometry for apoptosis evaluation by Annexin V/PI method. Results: Apoptosis rate (PI and Annexin V double positive cells) after 24 hours incubation was higher in 24 hours in comparison with 48 hours incubation in both cell lines. The frequency of PI positive MDA-MB 468 cells was higher than PI and Annexin V double positive cells after 48 hours. PI positive MDA-MB 468 cells were significantly higher than MCF-7 cells in 24 hours incubation time. Conclusions: The results have shown that MDA-MB 468 cells were more sensitive to UV exposure and DNA fragmentation and necrosis pathway was dominant in these cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/cc/ijcp-08-4193.PMC4736075.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4808256", "abstract": "Arthroscopic resection of the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) for subspine impingement has become a relatively common procedure. The AIIS is the origin of the direct head of rectus femoris (dhRF). Previous studies have reported that removal of the contributing portion of the AIIS causing impingement is unlikely to weaken the attachment of the dhRF. The purpose of this article is to report a case of avulsion of the dhRF, following revision hip arthroscopy for the treatment of subspine impingement. A 23-year-old professional footballer underwent revision left hip arthroscopy for the treatment of subspine impingement. 5-mm of bone was resected inferior to the AIIS. Two-weeks post-operatively, he presented with sudden onset, severe left anterior thigh pain following a fall and hyperextension of his left hip. The patient felt a pop over the anterior aspect of his hip. He noticed immediate swelling, severe pain and stiffness. Examination revealed diffuse swelling, 4/5-power on straight-leg-raise, focal tenderness over the AIIS but no palpable gap. MRI confirmed the clinical suspicion of a dhRF avulsion. Given the minimal loss of power and the lack of significant retraction, the patient was treated conservatively. He was instructed to avoid excessive hip extension. He returned to full participation at 3-months. This article highlights a case of avulsion of the dhRF due to a hyperextension injury of the hip following arthroscopic resection of subspinal impingement, a previously unreported complication. Resection of soft and bone from the AIIS may weaken the insertion of the dhRF. Care should be taken during post-operative rehabilitation to avoid trauma and excessive forces on the dhRF tendon, which may lead to rupture. Rehabilitation should be focused on range of motion of the hip.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9d/e2/hnv072.PMC4808256.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4337912", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare, ulcerative inflammatory skin pathology frequently associated with systemic inflammatory disease. While rare after surgery, recognition of this disease in the post-surgical setting is important as it can mimic wound infection. There have been ten case reports to date of PG occurring immediately after cardiac surgery, with all of them presenting within the first week post-operatively. PRESENTATION OF CASE We herein present a delayed and dramatic presentation of PG nine days after mitral valve replacement and repair of patent foramen ovale, two days after being discharged with a seemingly normal healing wound. Diagnosis of this disease in the postoperative period requires high suspicion when the characteristic ulcerative lesions are seen diffusely in all surgical wounds and show minimal improvement with antibiotic treatment or debridement. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION Our case highlights the importance of recognizing this disease in the postoperative period, even in a delayed presentation and initially limited to one of the surgical sites. This case calls for an awareness of this disease entity amongst cardiac surgeons as well as intensivists.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/41/main.PMC4337912.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3400731", "abstract": "We surveyed gene–gene interactions (epistasis) in human body mass index (BMI) in four European populations (n<1200) via exhaustive pair-wise genome scans where interactions were computed as F ratios by testing a linear regression model fitting two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with interactions against the one without. Before the association tests, BMI was corrected for sex and age, normalised and adjusted for relatedness. Neither single SNPs nor SNP interactions were genome-wide significant in either cohort based on the consensus threshold (P=5.0E−08) and a Bonferroni corrected threshold (P=1.1E−12), respectively. Next we compared sub genome-wide significant SNP interactions (P<5.0E−08) across cohorts to identify common epistatic signals, where SNPs were annotated to genes to test for gene ontology (GO) enrichment. Among the epistatic genes contributing to the commonly enriched GO terms, 19 were shared across study cohorts of which 15 are previously published genome-wide association loci, including CDH13 (cadherin 13) associated with height and SORCS2 (sortilin-related VPS10 domain containing receptor 2) associated with circulating insulin-like growth factor 1 and binding protein 3. Interactions between the 19 shared epistatic genes and those involving BMI candidate loci (P<5.0E−08) were tested across cohorts and found eight replicated at the SNP level (P<0.05) in at least one cohort, which were further tested and showed limited replication in a separate European population (n>5000). We conclude that genome-wide analysis of epistasis in multiple populations is an effective approach to provide new insights into the genetic regulation of BMI but requires additional efforts to confirm the findings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cf/a2/ejhg201217a.PMC3400731.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3840869", "abstract": "We characterized 7 highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) viruses isolated from poultry in China during 2009–2012 and found that they belong to clade 2.3.4 but do not fit within the 3 defined subclades. Antigenic drift in subtype H5N1 variants may reduce the efficacy of vaccines designed to control these viruses in poultry.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6a/9f/PMC3840869.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3894543", "abstract": "The anion gap in the serum is useful in the interpretation of acid-base disorders and in the diagnosis of other conditions. In the early 1980s, ion-selective electrodes for specific ionic species were introduced for the measurement of serum electrolytes. This new method has caused a shift of the anion gap from 12±4 mEq/L down 6±3 mEq/L. It is worthy for clinicians to understand the range of normal anion gap and the measuring methods for serum sodium and chloride in the laboratories that support their practice. While an increase in the anion gap is almost always caused by retained unmeasured anions, a decrease in the anion gap can be generated by multiple mechanisms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/54/PMC3894543.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3236496", "abstract": "Polymer micelles are promising drug delivery vehicles for the delivery of anticancer agents to tumors. Often, anticancer drugs display potent cytotoxic effects towards cancer cells but are too hydrophobic to be administered in the clinic as a free drug. To address this problem, a polymer micelle was designed using a triblock copolymer (ITP-101) that enables hydrophobic drugs to be encapsulated. An SN-38 encapsulated micelle, IT-141, was prepared that exhibited potent in vitro cytotoxicity against a wide array of cancer cell lines. In a mouse model, pharmacokinetic analysis revealed that IT-141 had a much longer circulation time, plasma exposure, and tumor exposure compared to irinotecan. IT-141 was also superior to irinotecan in terms of antitumor activity, exhibiting greater tumor inhibition in HT-29 and HCT116 colorectal cancer xenograft models at half the dose of irinotecan. The antitumor effect of IT-141 was dose-dependent and caused complete growth inhibition and tumor regression at well-tolerated doses. Varying the specific concentration of SN-38 within the IT-141 micelle had no detectible effect on this antitumor activity, indicating no differences in activity between different IT-141 formulations. In summary, IT-141 is a potent micelle-based chemotherapy that holds promise for the treatment of colorectal cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8c/9e/PMC3236496.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3446103", "abstract": "Objective Acute respiratory infection (ARI) is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide. Human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) is main viral agent of ARI in infants and young children in terms of effect and prevalence. The aim of this study was to investigate HRSV genotypes during one season in Iran. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 107 throat swabs were collected from children less than 5 years of age with acute respiratory infection from October to December 2009. The respiratory samples were obtained from several provinces: Tehran, Isfahan, Hamadan, Zanjan, Kordestan, Lorestan and West Azarbayjan, and were tested for G protein gene of HRSV by RT-PCR. Findings Of the 107 respiratory samples, 24 (22.42", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/81/08/IJPD-21-058.PMC3446103.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4411910", "abstract": "Abstract Background Natural disasters result in numerous economic, social, psychological and cultural consequences. Of them, psychological consequences of disasters will affect the lives of people long after the critical conditions finish. Thus, concerning the importance of psychological support in disasters, this study has identified problems and weaknesses in dealing with the psychological effects of the disasters occurred in Iran. Methods This qualitative study was carried out using semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus groups. Sample volume consisted of 26 experts in the field of disaster management. Content analysis was used to analyze data. Results Nine major problems were identified as weaknesses in handling the psychological effects of the disaster. These weaknesses include: rescuers’ unfamiliarity with the basic principles of psychosocial support, shortage of relevant experts and inadequate training, paying no attention to the needs of specific groups, weaknesses in organizational communications, discontinuation of psychological support after disaster, unfamiliarity with native language and culture of the disaster area, little attention paid by media to psychological principles in broadcasting news, people’s long-term dependence on governmental aid. Conclusions Disaster management has various aspects; in Iran, less attention has been paid to psychological support in disasters. Increasing education at all levels, establishing responsible structures and programming seem necessary in dealing with the psychological effects of disasters.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/be/79/PMC4411910.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5234555", "abstract": "Background Biomimetic peptides are synthetic compounds that are identical to amino acid sequence synthesized by an organism and can interact with growth factor receptors and provide antiaging clinical effects. Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of biomimetic peptides on the repair processes in the dermis using a model of cell cultures and in vivo. Patients and methods Five female volunteers were subjected to the injection of biomimetic peptides 1 month prior to the abdominoplasty procedure. Cell culture, immunocytochemistry, and confocal microscopy methods were used in this study. Results Biomimetic peptides regulate the synthesis of proteins Ki-67, type I procollagen, AP-1, and SIRT6 in cell cultures of human fibroblasts. They contribute to the activation of regeneration processes and initiation of mechanisms that prevent aging. Intradermal administration of complex of biomimetic peptides produces a more dense arrangement of collagen fibers in the dermis and increased size of the fibers after 2 weeks. The complex of biomimetic peptides was effective in the in vivo experiments, where an increase in the proliferative and synthetic activities of fibroblasts was observed. Conclusion This investigation showed that the studied peptides have biological effects, testifying the stimulation of reparative processes in the skin under their control.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/a0/ccid-10-011.PMC5234555.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4383302", "abstract": "A method is presented for magnetic solid phase extraction of tartrazine from nonalcoholic beverages. The method involves the extraction and clean-up by activated carbon covered with magnetite dispersed in the sample, followed by the magnetic isolation and desorption of the analyte by basified methanol. The tartrazine eluted from the magnetic support was determined by spectrophotometry. Under optimal conditions, the linear range of the calibration curve ranges from 3 to 30 mg L−1, with a limit of detection of 1 mg L−1. The method was validated by comparing the results with those obtained by HPLC. A precision of <5.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c6/19/PMC4383302.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3958639", "abstract": "This case describes the reversal of early central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) with disc swelling after intravitreal dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex) injection. A 44-year-old female presented with sudden-onset intermittent blurred vision in her left eye. Fundus examination revealed multiple retinal hemorrhages without macular edema (ME). Two weeks later, an increased number of retinal hemorrhages with severe disc swelling were noted with still no sign of ME. An intravitreal dexamethasone implant was injected. Five days later, there were improvements in disc swelling and retinal hemorrhage. One month later, her subjective visual symptoms were completely improved, and fundus examination revealed marked improvement along with almost complete resolution of disc swelling. Intravitreal dexamethasone implant injection may potentially change the natural course of CRVO progression and its various subsequent complications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/86/kjo-28-192.PMC3958639.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3009996", "abstract": "Objective: To identify poorly compliant glaucoma patients, using the Eye-Drop Satisfaction Questionnaire (EDSQ). Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study with compliance data collected by an electronic monitoring device. Patients with primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension completed the EDSQ, a six-dimension self-reported questionnaire addressing “treatment concern”, “disease concern”, “patient–clinician relationship”, “positive beliefs”, “treatment convenience”, and “self-declared compliance”. A Bayesian network (BN) was applied to explore compliance associations with EDSQ. Results: Among 169 patients who completed the EDSQ, 113 had valid Travalert® data, of whom 25 (22.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/64/c3/PMC3009996.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5066399", "abstract": "Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) enables en bloc curative resection of early gastric cancers (EGCs) with a negligible risk of lymph node metastasis (LNM). Although ESD for EGCs with absolute and expanded indications is safe, the results differ between EGCs with specialized and common histologies. EGC with papillary adenocarcinoma is a differentiated-type adenocarcinoma. At present, it is treated with ESD according to the same criteria as other differentiated-type adenocarcinomas. The LNM rate under the current indication criteria is high, and over half of the patients who undergo ESD as a primary treatment for EGC with papillary adenocarcinoma achieve an out-of-ESD result. Gastric carcinoma with lymphoid stroma in EGC has a low LNM rate and a favorable outcome, despite deep submucosal invasion. Patients with this gastric cancer subtype may be good candidates for ESD, even with deep submucosal invasion. Large-scale prospective multi-center studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to set proper ESD criteria for these tumors. Clinicians should be aware of these disease entities and ESD should be more carefully considered for EGCs with papillary adenocarcinoma and gastric carcinoma with lymphoid stroma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2b/dd/ce-2016-127.PMC5066399.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3835241", "abstract": "Background Intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is an effective treatment for acute ischemic stroke if administered within a few hours of stroke onset. Because of this time restriction, tPA administration remains infrequent. Ambulance use is an effective strategy for increasing tPA administration but may be influenced by geographical factors. The objectives of this study are to investigate the relationship between tPA administration and ambulance use and to examine how patient travel distance and population density affect tPA utilization. Methods and Results We analyzed administrative claims data from 114 194 acute ischemic stroke cases admitted to 603 hospitals between July 2010 and March 2012. Mixed‐effects logistic regression models of patients nested within hospitals with a random intercept were generated to analyze possible predictive factors (including patient characteristics, ambulance use, and driving time from home to hospital) of tPA administration for different population density categories to investigate differences in these factors in various regional backgrounds. Approximately 5.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/6c/jah3-2-e000336.PMC3835241.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3414049", "abstract": "Schmallenberg virus, a novel orthobunyavirus, is spreading among ruminants, especially sheep, throughout Europe. To determine the risk for human infection, we conducted a survey among shepherds to assess possible exposure and symptoms. We also performed serologic and molecular assays. No evidence of transmission to humans was detected.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/11/PMC3414049.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2988864", "abstract": "A 25-year-old African American female with no prior medical/surgical history presented with abdominal pain and fever. A computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis showed jejunal wall thickening with an air-fluid-filled mass in the adjacent mesentery. At laparotomy, a segmental jejunal resection with the abscess cavity followed by primary anastomosis was performed. Pathological evaluation of the specimen revealed a large mesenteric abscess contiguous with a perforated solitary jejunal diverticulum. We provide a discussion of jejunal diverticulitis as an unusual cause of peritonitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/12/ed/crg0004-0492.PMC2988864.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5415292", "abstract": "Context: The American Academy of Pediatrics and professional guidelines recommend intervening with adolescents about avoiding tobacco use in the health-care setting. Barriers in the clinical setting limit consistent provision of this critical service. Objectives: This pilot study compared 2 approaches for referring adolescents to an evidence-based tobacco prevention and cessation program in the outpatient setting. Secondary aims assessed tobacco use, knowledge, and program evaluation. Design, Setting, and Participants: The study setting was a medical and dental clinic. Participants aged 13 to 18 received tobacco advice and instructions to work through “A Smoking Prevention Interactive Experience.” The program addresses health concerns of adolescents about tobacco use and is founded on behavioral change theories. The link to access it is featured on the website of the National Cancer Institute’s Research-Tested Interventions. Participants (N = 197) were randomized to 1 of 2 approaches (ie, a program link via e-mail or referral by a printed card). Results: The program was accessed by 57", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/04/29/10.1177_2333392817703208.PMC5415292.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3945029", "abstract": " Objectives. Tutoplast processed human cadaveric ossicular allografts are a safe alternative for ossicular reconstruction where there is insufficient material suitable for autograft ossiculoplasty. We present a series of 7 consecutive cases showing excellent air-bone gap closure following canal-wall-down mastoidectomy for cholesteatoma and reconstruction of the middle ear using Tutoplast processed malleus. Patients and Methods. Tympanoplasty with Tutoplast processed malleus was performed in seven patients to reconstruct the middle ear following canal-wall-down mastoidectomy in a tertiary ENT centre. Main Outcome Measures. Hearing improvement and recurrence-free period were assessed. Pre-and postoperative audiograms were performed. Results. The average pre operative hearing loss was 50 ± 13 dB, with an air-bone gap of 33 ± 7 dB. Post operative audiograms at 25 months demonstrated hearing thresholds of 29 ± 10 dB, with an air-bone gap of 14 ± 6 dB. No prosthesis extrusion was observed, which compares favourably to other commercially available prostheses. Conclusions. Tutoplast processed allografts restore conductive hearing loss in patients undergoing mastoidectomy and provide an excellent alternative when there is insufficient material suitable for autograft ossiculoplasty.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/aa/86/PMC3945029.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3995401", "abstract": "A 57-year-old male had been suffering from an itchy map-shaped symmetrical erosive erythema with a crust that was attached to his upper arm and buttock, and occasionally he suffered from spiking fever. Laboratory examinations showed neither anti-desmoglein 1/3 antibodies nor anti-BP 180 antibodies, and he fulfilled the criteria for a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Histologically, there was eosinophilic necrosis of keratinocytes, liquefaction and degradation with severe lymphocyte infiltration into the epidermis and subepidermal blister formation, suggestive of a variant of SLE, bullous lupus erythematosus (BLE). One month after remission of BLE, peculiar annular hypopigmentation appeared on the peripheral borders. An immunohistochemical analysis showed a decrease in Melan A-positive melanocytes and concomitant pigment incontinentia, with dense infiltration of CD8+ T cells and IL-17A+ Th17 cells. An ultrastructural analysis revealed a decrease, but not a complete disappearance, of both melanocytes and melanosomes, and no impairment in melanosomal transfer. In this case report, we would like to introduce the development of annular depigmentation complicated with BLE, and discuss the effects of lupus condition on melanocyte damage based on immunohistological and electromicroscopic findings of those vitiliginous lesions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/26/2f/cde-0006-0091.PMC3995401.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4494619", "abstract": "Schizophrenia is a mental disorder associated with a variety of symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, social withdrawal, and cognitive dysfunction. Impairments on decision-making tasks are routinely reported: evidence points to a particular deficit in learning from and revising behavior following feedback. In addition, patients tend to make hasty decisions when probabilistic judgments are required. This is known as “jumping to conclusions” (JTC) and has typically been demonstrated by presenting participants with colored beads drawn from one of two “urns” until they claim to be sure which urn the beads are being drawn from (the proportions of colors vary in each urn). Patients tend to make early decisions on this task, and there is evidence to suggest that a hasty decision-making style might be linked to delusion formation and thus be of clinical relevance. Various accounts have been proposed regarding what underlies this behavior. In this review, we briefly introduce the disorder and the decision-making deficits associated with it. We then explore the evidence for each account of JTC in the context of a wider decision-making deficit and then go on to summarize work exploring JTC in healthy controls using pharmacological manipulations and functional imaging. Finally, we assess whether JTC might have a role in therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/b2/ndt-11-1615.PMC4494619.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1868076", "abstract": "Blister development in bullous pemphigoid (BP) results from destruction of hemidesmosomes and basement membrane components within the dermoepidermal junction by autoantibodies. Adhesion molecules can take part in pathogenesis of this disease. The aim of the study was to determine the localization and expression of L- and E-selectins and β1, β3, and β4 integrins by immunohistochemistry in skin lesions of 21 patients with BP, compared with 10 healthy subjects. Expression of L and E selectins and β1, β3 integrins was detected mainly in basal keratinocytes and in inflammatory infiltrates in the dermis, expression of β4 integrin was irregular and was detected mainly in dermal part of the blister, while in the control group only weak and single expression of the examined molecules was detected in basal keratinocytes and endothelium cells. The obtained results reveal the important role of selected selectins and integrins in development of skin lesions in BP.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a3/e1/PMC1868076.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4278564", "abstract": "Threatening communication is a widely applied method in behavior change interventions, which at the same time has been heavily criticized in the psychological literature. The current paper describes a study of the reasons for this persistent wide application of threatening communication. We conducted qualitative interviews with 33 key actors in behavior change intervention development in The Netherlands. Specifically, we interviewed intervention developers, policymakers, politicians, scientists, and advertising professionals. The interviews were transcribed and subsequently coded using NVivo. We found that participants most closely involved with the actual intervention development were generally convinced that threatening information was to be prevented, but often did not understand the exact processes involved. They were often under the impression that rather than a potent efficacy enhancing element, a behavioral suggestion would suffice to prevent threatening communication from backfiring. As participants were further removed from the actual intervention development, they generally tended to be more in favor of threatening communication. The main reasons for use of threatening information were to attract attention or prompt self-reflection through confrontation, because target population members were assumed to like threatening information and respond rationally to increased risk perceptions by changing their behavior, or simply because no alternatives were available. In addition, intervention developers frequently had to deal with supervisors or funders who preferred threatening communication. Thus, when communicating with practitioners, it seems fruitful to provide them with a toolbox of evidence-based behavior change methods that promote adaptive, rather than maladaptive, behavior; to promote basing interventions on the most relevant behavioral determinants as identified by determinant analyses; and to equip intervention developers with the tools to persuade other key stakeholders that fear is a bad counselor.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/2e/ijop0049-0071.PMC4278564.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4229377", "abstract": " Study Design Case report.  Objective The usual procedure for partial sacrectomies in locally advanced rectal cancer combines a transabdominal and a posterior sacral route. The posterior approach is flawed with a high rate of complications, especially infections and wound-healing problems. Anterior-only approaches have indirectly been mentioned within long series of rectal cancer surgery. We describe a case of partial sacrectomy for en bloc resection of a locally advanced rectal cancer with invasion of the low sacrum through a combined transabdominal and perineal approach without any posterior incision.  Methods Through a midline laparotomy, the tumor was dissected and the sacral osteotomy was performed. Once the sacrum was mobile, the muscular attachments to its posterior wall were cut through the perineal approach. This latter route was also used to remove the whole specimen.  Results The postoperative period was uneventful in terms of infection and wound healing, but the patient developed right foot dorsiflexion paresis that completely disappeared in 1 month. Resection margins were negative. After a follow-up of 18 months, the patient has no local recurrence but presented lung and liver metastases.  Conclusion In cases of rectal cancer involving the low sacrum, the combination of a transabdominal and a perineal route to carry out the partial sacrectomy is a feasible approach that avoids changes of surgical positioning and the morbidity related to posterior incisions. This strategy should be considered when deciding on undertaking partial sacrectomy in locally advanced rectal cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7d/6c/PMC4229377.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5174182", "abstract": " Purpose. To describe associations between retinal vessel diameters and cardiovascular risk markers and mortality. Methods. The present study included 908 persons aged 30 to 60 years. Vessel diameters were expressed as central retinal venular equivalent (CRVE) and central retinal arteriolar equivalent (CRAE). Multiple linear regression analyses and Cox regression models were used. Results. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that narrower CRAE was associated with higher systolic blood pressure, age, and higher HDL cholesterol, whereas wider CRAE and CRVE were associated with smoking. Narrower CRVE was associated with higher HDL cholesterol. In an age-adjusted model, associations between wider CRVE and risk of ischemic heart disease were found (P < 0.001). Wider CRVE was associated with all-cause mortality (HR = 2.02, P = 0.033) in a model adjusted for age, gender, and blood pressure. However, the association was not statistically significant after additional adjustment for smoking. Conclusions. The associations between retinal vessel diameters and known cardiovascular risk factors were confirmed. All-cause mortality was not associated with retinal vessel diameters when adjusting for relevant confounders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e3/c0/PMC5174182.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3196198", "abstract": "The flatworm Schistosoma mansoni is a blood fluke parasite that causes schistosomiasis, a debilitating disease that occurs throughout the developing world. Current schistosomiasis control strategies are mainly based on chemotherapy, but many researchers believe that the best long-term strategy to control schistosomiasis is through immunization with an antischistosomiasis vaccine combined with drug treatment. Several papers on Schistosoma mansoni vaccine and drug development have been published in the past few years, representing an important field of study. The advent of technologies that allow large-scale studies of genes and proteins had a remarkable impact on the screening of new and potential vaccine candidates in schistosomiasis. In this postgenomic scenario, bioinformatic technologies have emerged as important tools to mine transcriptomic, genomic, and proteomic databases. These new perspectives are leading to a new round of rational vaccine development. Herein, we discuss different strategies to identify potential S. mansoni vaccine candidates using computational vaccinology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/73/e5/PMC3196198.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3458785", "abstract": "Abstract Improved accuracy in oncological computed tomography (CT) could lead to a decrease in morbidity and improved survival for oncology patients. Visualization of metabolic activity using the glucose analogue [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) in combination with the high anatomic resolution of CT in an integrated positron emission tomography (PET)/CT examination has the highest sensitivity and specificity for the detection of primary and metastatic lesions. However, PET/CT costs are high and patient access is limited; thus CT remains the primary imaging modality in oncology patients. We have noted that subtle lesions are more easily detected on CT by radiologists with PET/CT experience. We aimed to provide a brief review of the literature with comparisons of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and PET/CT in primary and metastatic disease with an emphasis on findings that may be overlooked on MDCT in cancer of the breast, lung, colon, and ovaries, and in melanoma, as well as thrombosis in oncology patients. We further reviewed our experience for illustrative comparisons of PET/CT and MDCT studies. Experience in interpreting conventional CT scans alongside PET/CT can help the reader develop an appreciation for the subtle appearance of some lesions on CT that might otherwise be missed. This could improve detection rates, reduce errors, and improve patient management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/73/98/PMC3458785.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4937283", "abstract": "Background The effectiveness of radial access (RA) in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has been predominantly established in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) with limited exploration of this issue in the early postfibrinolytic patient. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of RA versus femoral (FA) access in STEMI undergoing either a pharmacoinvasive (PI) strategy or pPCI. Methods and Results Within STrategic Reperfusion Early After Myocardial Infarction (STREAM), we evaluated the relationship between arterial access site and primary outcome (30‐day composite of death, shock, congestive heart failure, or reinfarction) and major bleeding according to the treatment strategy received. A total of 1820 STEMI patients were included: 895 PI (49.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bc/c3/JAH3-5-e003559.PMC4937283.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5187482", "abstract": " Purpose. To compare the long-term outcomes of infectious versus sterile perforated corneal ulcers after therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty in the United States. Methods. The charts of 45 consecutive eyes that underwent primary therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty for a perforated corneal ulcer at a single center were retrospectively reviewed. The perforated ulcers were classified as infectious or sterile and the underlying demographics, clinical features, and 36-month outcomes were compared among the two groups. Results. Mean follow-up among subjects was 38.6 (±6.9) months. Patients presenting with sterile perforated ulcers were more likely to have a peripheral perforation location (p = 0.0333) and recurrence of the underlying disease condition (p = 0.0321), require adjunctive surgical measures in the immediate postoperative period (p < 0.0001), have reperforation after keratoplasty (p = 0.0079), have worse best corrected visual acuity (p = 0.0130), develop no light perception vision (p = 0.0053), and require enucleation/evisceration (p = 0.0252) when compared to the infectious perforated ulcer group. Conclusions. Sterile perforated corneal ulcers have a worse prognosis and may be more frequent than those caused by infectious disease in the United States compared to the developing world.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d4/2d/PMC5187482.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4655061", "abstract": "Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is an allergic reaction in the oral cavity subsequent to the consumption of food such as fruits, nuts, and vegetables. It occurs mainly due to homology of proteins of pollen to the proteins of fruits and vegetables. In OAS, the immune system produces antibodies that are directed against the proteins of pollen and structurally similar proteins in food, hence, resulting in allergic symptoms limited mainly to the oral cavity. In this review, we have summarized the etiopathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of OAS as an update for stomatologists.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c6/25/PMC4655061.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4626350", "abstract": "Spontaneous thrombosis of a ruptured aneurysm during coil embolization is a rare event, and some reports on recanalization of a spontaneous occluded ruptured aneurysm have been published. We report on a case of a 54-year-old male who presented with a subarachnoid hemorrhage due to rupture of a small aneurysm of the anterior communicating artery (ACoA). Cerebral angiography confirmed the presence of the ACoA aneurysm, but, during coil embolization, the aneurysm was near completely occluded with a remaining small neck. A small coil was inserted into the remaining stump of the neck to prevent recanalization, and the angiographic result at 1 year after coil embolization showed complete obliteration of the aneurysm.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/81/jcen-17-246.PMC4626350.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC151678", "abstract": "Background Control of malaria by the release of genetically modified mosquitoes refractory to transmission is now becoming a possibility. In many areas of Africa, Anopheles gambiae is found together with an equally important vector, An. funestus. Given their sympatry and the likelihood of a similar mating period some aspects of the mating behaviour of An. gambiae s.l. and An. funestus are likely to differ. We therefore attempted to characterise the swarming behaviour of An. funestus and to determine if any aspects of the observed behaviour differed from that recorded for the M form of An. gambiae from São Tomé. Methods In March – May 2002 the swarming, mating, house exiting and resting behaviour of Anopheles funestus was studied by direct observation in Mozambique. Swarming males and insects in copula were collected by sweep net. Wing lengths of males collected resting, exiting houses, swarming and mating were measured and the wingbeat frequency distribution of individual insects, in free flight confined inside netting covered paper cups, was also determined. Results Mono-specific swarms occurred at sunset in relatively open areas close to houses used for resting. Mating pairs were seen 11 ± 3.7 min after the start of swarming. The number of total pairs observed being inversely proportional to the time difference between the start of swarming and the first pairing. The great majority of females mated before feeding. Male or female size did not appear to affect mating success or other behaviours. During the study, ambient temperatures decreased and female, but not male, wing size increased. At 516 Hz, the flight tone of female An. funestus was similar to the 497 Hz of the local An. gambiae. Males dispersed if light or dark artificial horizontal markers were placed underneath naturally occurring swarms. Conclusion Differential response to markers would be sufficient for swarming in An. funestus and An. gambiae s.l. to occur in distinct sites.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/12/1c/PMC151678.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC59651", "abstract": "Arteriosclerotic vascular disease manifests as heart disease, stroke, aortic aneurysms, and peripheral vascular disease, and is a growing problem world-wide. The preventive efforts made so far have demonstrated that lowering LDL-C is one action that individuals and populations can do with significant success in delaying the onset of clinical events. Epidemiological studies and small clinical trials suggest that more aggressive and sustained lowering to LDL-C below 100 mg/dl could result in 50 to 70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1d/7e/PMC59651.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4756013", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to analyze the joint space width of the humeral head and glenoid fossa during traction under 2 grade conditions (grade 2/grade 3). [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were 20 healthy male adults who had not experienced any shoulder injury. Three radiographs were obtained with the subjects in the supine position (resting, grades 2 and 3). The glenohumeral joint space was examined on radiography. Joint space width was measured by a radiologist at the points described by Petersson and Redlund-Johnell. A radiologist blinded to the variable “resting” or “traction” performed all radiographic measurements. The joint space widths were compared by using one-way repeated-measures analysis of variance. [Results] The results of this study indicated significant differences in the changes in joint space width according to traction grade. Compared to resting, grades 2 and 3 traction significantly increased joint space width. However, no significant difference in joint space width was found between grades 2 and 3 traction. [Conclusion] Although no significant differences were found between grades 2 and 3 traction during glenohumeral joint traction, the increase in joint space width between the glenoid fossa and humeral head was highest during grade 3 traction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/66/jpts-28-246.PMC4756013.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5098457", "abstract": "Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of a cleansing eyelid wipe in reducing the microbiota present on the ocular surface before cataract surgery. Methods: A single-center, prospective, single-blind phase IV study was conducted at the University Complutense of Madrid. Forty-five adult patients who were scheduled for ocular surgery after treatment with commercially available eyelid wipes were consecutively enrolled. The study lasted 5 days and the patients were examined at day 0 (D0), day 3 (D3), and day 5 (D5). They received instructions to apply the eyelid wipe only to the eye subject to surgery, using the other eye as a control with no treatment. Lid and conjunctival swabs were taken on each day and microbes identified. Ocular surface microbiota was estimated by measuring the area of the agar plate occupied by the grown colonies with respect to the total available area. Results: Measurements at D3 and D5 showed a percent reduction of 58", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/d6/ecl-42-366.PMC5098457.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5288638", "abstract": "Introduction: It has been reported that the unicompartmental knee arthroplasty has good long-term outcomes for Western and Japanese patients. Alternatively, several reports have described reoperations after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty because of post-operative knee pain and sometimes it is difficult to diagnose the cause of pain. Case Report: We treated a patient with anteromedial knee pain caused by intra-articular scar tissue that contained residual cement fragments on the anterior surface of a femoral implant following Oxford unicompartmental knee arthroplasty. After arthroscopic resection of the scar tissue and removal of the 3 mm residual cement covered with the scar tissue, the patient’s post-operative symptoms were considerably alleviated. Conclusion: This is the first report describing a case of painful intra-articular scar tissue following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/10/JOCR-6-96.PMC5288638.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2717399", "abstract": "There is value to patients, clinicians and researchers from having a single electronic health record data standard that allows an integrated view, including genotype and phenotype data. However, it is important that this integrated view of the data is not created through a single database because privacy breaches increase with the number of users, and such breaches are more likely with a single data warehouse. Furthermore, a single user interface should be avoided because each end user requires a different user interface. Finally, data sharing must be controlled by the patient, not the other end users of the data. A preferable alternative is a federated architecture, which allows data to be stored in multiple institutions and shared on a need-to-know basis. The data sharing raises questions of ownership and stewardship that require social and political answers, as well as consideration of the clinical and scientific benefits.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fe/9e/PMC2717399.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3809434", "abstract": "Objective To investigate the cases of intracranial abnormal brain MRI findings even in the negative brain CT scan after mild head injury. Methods During a 2-year period (January 2009-December 2010), we prospectively evaluated both brain CT and brain MRI of 180 patients with mild head injury. Patients were classified into two groups according to presence or absence of abnormal brain MRI finding even in the negative brain CT scan after mild head injury. Two neurosurgeons and one neuroradiologist validated the images from both brain CT scan and brain MRI double blindly. Results Intracranial injury with negative brain CT scan after mild head injury occurred in 18 patients (10.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b0/c1/jkns-54-100.PMC3809434.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3526911", "abstract": "Background This study aimed to determine the impact of switching patients requiring multiple drug treatment from the dorzolamide-timolol fixed combination to the brinzolamide-timolol fixed combination and potential effects on tolerability and compliance. Methods Patients were switched from dorzolamide-timolol to brinzolamide-timolol and questioned within a period of 4–26 weeks. Questions were asked to confirm if a specific side effect had been experienced, and then a numerical comparison between the two types of eye drop was made. Results Thirty-one consecutive patients (12 males and 19 females aged 41–89 years) successfully completed the questionnaire. Comparison of the severity and chronicity of the side effects of the two types of fixed-combination eye drops showed that brinzolamide-timolol caused significantly less stinging for a shorter amount of time than dorzolamide-timolol; it also produced less eye redness for a significantly shorter amount of time. Brinzolamide-timolol produced more blurring, although the length of time this was present was similar to that for dorzolamide-timolol. No differences between the two eye drops were found for taste, overall impression, and likelihood of compliance. Conclusion Our study confirms the findings of other researchers pertaining to the side effect profile of brinzolamide-timolol after switching from dorzolamide-timolol, which is a reduction in stinging but an increase in blurred vision. The advantage of one eye drop over the other then becomes patient-specific, depending on which side effect they find most tolerable. We suggest that both eye drops are acceptable choices in treating patients with glaucoma, and are interchangeable if compliance becomes an issue because of a specific side effect of one eye drop or the other.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/d8/PMC3526911.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4757390", "abstract": "More than a century ago, the first scientific report was published about fracture fixation with plates. During the 1950’s, open reduction and plate fixation for fractures were standardized by the founders of Arbeitsgemeinschaft für osteosynthesefragen/Association for the Study of Internal Fixation. Since the introduction of plate fixation for fractures, several plates and screws have been developed, all with their own characteristics. To accomplice more fracture stability, it was thought the bigger the plate, the better. The counter side was a compromised blood supply of the bone, often resulting in bone necrosis and ultimately delayed or non-union. With the search and development of new materials and techniques for fracture fixation, less invasive procedures have become increasingly popular. This resulted in the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique for fracture fixation. With the MIPO technique, procedures could be performed with smaller incisions and thus with less soft tissue damage and a better preserved blood supply. The last 5 years rib fixation has become increasingly popular, rising evidence has become available suggesting that surgical rib fixation improves outcome of patients with a flail chest or isolated rib fractures. Many surgical approaches for rib fixation have been described in the old literature, however, most of these techniques are obscure nowadays. Currently mostly large incisions with considerable surgical insult are used to stabilize rib fractures. We think that MIPO deserves a place in the surgical treatment of rib fractures. We present the aspects of diagnosis, preoperative planning and operative techniques in regard to MIPO rib fixation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/4b/kjtcv-49-001.PMC4757390.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3564958", "abstract": "Studies of the human microbiome have revealed that even healthy individuals differ remarkably in the microbes that occupy habitats such as the gut, skin, and vagina. Much of this diversity remains unexplained, although diet, environment, host genetics, and early microbial exposure have all been implicated. Accordingly, to characterize the ecology of human-associated microbial communities, the Human Microbiome Project has analyzed the largest cohort and set of distinct, clinically relevant body habitats to date. We found the diversity and abundance of each habitat’s signature microbes to vary widely even among healthy subjects, with strong niche specialization both within and among individuals. The project encountered an estimated 81–99", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/18/PMC3564958.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3969641", "abstract": "Thyroid tuberculosis is a rare disease even in countries where tuberculosis is endemic. Clinically tuberculosis is not often suspected in cases of thyroid nodule or swelling. We report a case of 11 years female child who presented with a thyroid swelling. Fine-needle aspiration cytology revealed caseating epithelioid granulomas and acid fast bacilli. Patient improved with antitubercular drugs. Tuberculosis may be considered as differential diagnosis of thyroid swelling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/df/cb/JLP-6-40.PMC3969641.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3291439", "abstract": "The proportion of positive Leptospira microscopic agglutination tests for 23,005 dogs significantly increased from 2002 to 2004 (p<0.002) regardless of the positive cutoff titer used and was highest (p<0.05) for serovars Autumnalis and Grippotyphosa. The strongest positive serologic correlation (r = 0.72) was between serovars Autumnalis and Pomona.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/39/1d/PMC3291439.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4198555", "abstract": "Recent progress in advanced endoscopic imaging and electronic chromoendoscopy allows the real-time endoscopic estimation of the histologic type of polyps, mainly for the differentiation of adenomas from hyperplastic polyps. Accordingly, a \"resect-and-discard\" strategy applied to diminutive colorectal polyps is now one of the emerging issues among gastroenterologists. The strategy has a practical advantage in terms of the potential cost savings. However, it has a number of limitations in the medical, academic, and legal aspects. The major pitfalls include the endoscopic investigation of colorectal polyps with a wide variety of histogenetic origins, including serrated polyps, and the lack of a standardized method for polyp size measurement. Another issue is the importance of the pathologic diagnosis for legal purposes and medical research. Moreover, it is not certain whether the implementation of the strategy has economic benefit in countries with an undervalued reimbursement system for pathologic examination. There is no doubt that a highly confident optical diagnosis of polyp type is a novel valuable tool. It can provide a more steady symbiosis between gastroenterologists and pathologists to allow a more evident diagnosis and management of patients with colorectal polyps.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/e7/ce-47-404.PMC4198555.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4763600", "abstract": "Emphysematous gastritis is a severe and rare form of gastritis with characteristic findings of intramural gas in the stomach. It is an acute life-threatening condition resulting from gas-producing microorganisms invading the stomach wall. Early diagnosis and initiation of treatment with bowel rest, hydration, and intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics is imperative for an effective outcome. Surgical intervention is reserved for perforations, peritonitis, strictures, and uncontrolled disseminated sepsis. We present a case of an 82-year-old female with prior history of colon and uterine cancer on remission treated with surgeries who presented with bilious vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and nausea. She was tachycardic and had a diffusely tender abdomen with rebound on examination. Her laboratory results including blood count, serum chemistry, and coagulation studies were normal. She was diagnosed with emphysematous gastritis based on the characteristic radiographic findings of intramural stomach gas and also the presence of gas in the portal venous system. It is important to differentiate emphysematous gastritis from gastric emphysema because of the difference in management and prognosis, as emphysematous gastritis has a worse outcome and requires aggressive management. Despite an anticipated poor prognosis due to the known grave outcomes of emphysematous gastritis, our patient was successfully managed with conservative treatment. We concluded that she developed emphysematous gastritis probably secondary to immunosuppression and possible mucosal tears from multiple bouts of vomiting. She had a stable hospital course and resolution with medical management most likely due to early diagnosis and initiation of appropriate treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1f/2f/JCHIMP-6-30519.PMC4763600.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4778599", "abstract": "For many autoimmune diseases, the underlying mechanism is still unknown. In order to get more insight into the etiology of autoimmune diseases, we recently published a study were we performed epigenetic profiling and RNA sequencing on CD4+CD45RO+ T cells derived from the site of inflammation of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) patients and compared this with healthy controls. In this “Data in Brief”, we focus on the analysis of our RNA sequencing data reported in this study, of which the raw and processed files can be found in GEO under GSE71595. We provide a detailed description of the downstream analysis, quality controls, and different analysis methods or techniques that validate the results obtained with RNA-sequencing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/4c/main.PMC4778599.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1665230", "abstract": "Retroperitoneal sarcomas are rare neoplasms. CT or MR imaging is performed in patients with these tumors to detect local extent and distant metastases of the tumor and for preoperative surgical planning. Most sarcomas cannot be characterized as to cell type with CT or MR, with the exceptions being liposarcomas and intracaval leiomyosarcomas. Similarly histological grading cannot be made definitively with imaging alone, the exception being liposarcoma since well differentiated liposarcomas contain more macroscopic fat than do less differentiated liposarcomas. After surgery, follow up imaging with CT or MR and careful scrutiny of the tumor bed and resection site are essential to detect early recurrences, which can often be managed with re-resection. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/9f/PMC1665230.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3150703", "abstract": "Cardiac calcified amorphous tumors (CATs) can arise in all four chambers of the heart. Cardiac CATs can cause diverse symptoms according to their locations, and mass or embolic effects. Pulmonary emboli arising from cardiac CATs have been reported, but the true incidence is unknown due to their rarity. Herein we report a rare case with diffuse CATs in the right ventricle which caused a calcific pulmonary embolism and right-sided heart failure. Echocardiography, chest non-contrast computed tomography, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging helped us diagnose the CATs. We recommend the usefulness of a multimodality imaging approach to characterize intracardiac masses and their complications accurately.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/90/jcu-19-91.PMC3150703.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2829929", "abstract": "Hepatitis C is a viral disease transmitted principally by blood, which affects millions of people worldwide. A significant proportion of those affected develop severe liver disease as a result. Only a fraction of patients are responsive to interferon treatment, highlighting the need for further research into genetic factors involved in response to therapy in order to optimize treatment. The only current approach for end-stage disease is liver transplant, which ironically does not cure the condition, and thus poses a clinical dilemma in the face of liver-donor shortage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/63/PMC2829929.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3521338", "abstract": "Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a rare and life-threatening condition characterized by hemoptysis, dyspnoea, alveolar infiltrates on chest radiograph and various degrees of anemia. It may occur either as a primary disease of the lungs or a secondary condition due to cardiac, systemic vascular, collagen or renal diseases. Idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis (IPH) is a separate form of DAH of unknown origin, associated in some cases with celiac disease. The estimated incidence of IPH in children is 0.24-1.23 cases per million, with a mortality rate as high as 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/85/f9/PMC3521338.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2845873", "abstract": "Background In the absence of planned efforts to target the poor, child survival programs often favour the rich. Further evidence is needed urgently about which interventions and programme approaches are most effective in addressing inequities. The Lives Saved Tool (LiST) is available and can be used to model mortality levels across economic groups based on coverage levels for child survival interventions. Methods We used LiST to model neonatal and under-5 mortality levels among the highest and the lowest wealth quintiles in Bangladesh based on national and wealth-quintile-specific coverage of child survival interventions. The cause-of-death structure among children under-5 was also modelled using the coverage levels. Modelled rates were compared to the rates measured directly from the 2004 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey and associated verbal autopsies. Results Modelled estimates of mortality within wealth quintiles fell within the 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/17/dyq034.PMC2845873.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3388650", "abstract": "The nutrition dose truly absorbed by a patient is crucial information in the management or the investigation of nutrition during critical illness. In the present issue of Critical Care, assessment of nutritional losses in stools was studied. These losses together with enteral nutrition lost in gastric fluids and enteral nutrition prescribed but never infused make up the difference between the dose supposedly given to a patient and the amount effectively taken up. Additionally, the optimal dosing and timing of nutrition during critical illness are still debated. When enteral nutrition is insufficient, the options are limited.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/04/95/PMC3388650.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4681928", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to verify if a periodic sound-based 6-minute walk test with the best periodic sound could be used to evaluate physical endurance more precisely than the conventional 6-minute walk test. [Subjects] The subjects were healthy subjects and 6 ambulant patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. [Methods] The subjects initially walked for 1 minute to a long-interval metronome sound, and the walking distance was measured. The sound interval was then gradually shortened, and the subjects walked for 1 minute for each of the intervals. The best periodic sound was considered to be the periodic sound used when the subject walked the longest distance in 1 minute, and the process of determining it was referred to as the period shortening walk test. This study administered the 6-minute walk test with the best periodic sound to twenty healthy subjects and 6 ambulant patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and compared the walking distance. [Results] The periodic sound-based 6-minute walk test distances in both the healthy subjects and the patients were significantly longer than the conventional 6-minute walk test distances. [Conclusion] The periodic sound-based 6-minute walk test provided a better indication of ambulatory potential in an evaluation of physical endurance than the conventional 6-minute walk test.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/d0/jpts-27-3473.PMC4681928.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3938335", "abstract": "Chemically ordered alloys are useful in a variety of magnetic nanotechnologies. They are most conveniently prepared at an industrial scale using sputtering techniques. Here we describe a method for preparing epitaxial thin films of B2-ordered FeRh by sputter deposition onto single crystal MgO substrates. Deposition at a slow rate onto a heated substrate allows time for the adatoms to both settle into a lattice with a well-defined epitaxial relationship with the substrate and also to find their proper places in the Fe and Rh sublattices of the B2 structure. The structure is conveniently characterized with X-ray reflectometry and diffraction and can be visualised directly using transmission electron micrograph cross-sections. B2-ordered FeRh exhibits an unusual metamagnetic phase transition: the ground state is antiferromagnetic but the alloy transforms into a ferromagnet on heating with a typical transition temperature of about 380 K. This is accompanied by a 1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/22/f4/jove-80-50603.PMC3938335.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3321756", "abstract": "Ancient parasites of the genus Tunga originated in America and, during the first half of the 19th century, were transported to the Eastern Hemisphere on transatlantic voyages. Although they were first documented by Spanish chroniclers after the arrival of Columbus, little is known about their presence in pre-Hispanic America. To evaluate the antiquity of tungiasis in America, we assessed several kinds of early documentation, including written evidence and pre-Incan earthenware reproductions. We identified 17 written documents and 4 anthropomorphic figures, of which 3 originated from the Chimu culture and 1 from the Maranga culture. Tungiasis has been endemic to Peru for at least 14 centuries. We also identified a pottery fragment during this study. This fragment is the fourth representation of tungiasis in pre-Hispanic America identified and provides explicit evidence of disease endemicity in ancient Peru.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/63/22/PMC3321756.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3109379", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE: To evaluate pregnancy outcomes, complications and neonatal outcomes in women who had previously undergone uterine arterial embolization.  METHODS: A retrospective study of 187 patients treated with uterine arterial embolization for symptomatic uterine fibroids between 2005-2008 was performed. Uterine arterial embolization was performed using polyvinyl alcohol particles (500-900 µm in diameter). Pregnancies were identified using screening questionnaires and the study database. RESULTS: There were 15 spontaneous pregnancies. Of these, 12.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/73/cln-66-05-807.PMC3109379.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4273048", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to assess the correlation of gait parameters with fear of falling in stroke survivors. [Subjects] In total, 12 patients with stroke participated. [Methods] The subjects performed on a Biodex Gait Trainer 2 for 5 min to evaluate characteristic gait parameters. The kinematic gait parameters measured were gait speed, step cycle, step length, and time on each foot (step symmetry). All the subjects also completed a fall anxiety survey. [Results] Correlations between gait parameters and fear of falling scores were calculated. There was a moderate degree of correlation between fear of falling scores and the step cycle item of gait parameters. [Conclusions] According to our results, the step cycle gait parameter may be related to increased fall anxiety.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/79/3d/jpts-26-1883.PMC4273048.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3174465", "abstract": "Intraosseous ameloblastoma is the most common and simple type of ameloblastoma prevalent among odontogenic tumors. Clinico-radiographically intraosseous ameloblastoma presents as slow, painless swelling or expansion of the jaws and described as multilocular expansile radiolucency that occurs most frequently in mandibular molar/ramus area. This article describes a case of follicular ameloblastoma involving 45 year old male which is different from the usual presentation, which includes-exophytic growth, different location and without expansion of the cortex.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/12/69/isd-41-89.PMC3174465.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3426341", "abstract": "Background HIV, HBV, Syphilis and HCV share common modes of transmission. Objective The study was aimed to determine the co-infection rate of HIV, HBV and Syphilis among HCV seropositive identified blood donors. Methods The study was conducted on blood samples screened as HCV seropositive at Nepal Red Cross Society, Central Blood Transfusion Service, Kathmandu, Nepal. HCV seropositive samples were further tested for HIV, HBV and Syphilis. Results Eight co-infections were observed in 139 HCV seropositives with total co-infection rate of 5.75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/25/IEE-2-14835.PMC3426341.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3883371", "abstract": "Objective Constipation is a major debilitating problem in children. We aimed to assess the serum lead levels of 2-13 year-old children complaining from constipation who referred to our center in Guilan province, Northern Iran. Methods This cross-sectional study was done on ninety 2-13 year-old children referring to 17th Shahrivar Hospital, complaining from constipation (case group) and 90 healthy children The demographic data as well as the children's serum lead levels were evaluated and recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Chi-square test was used as applicable. Findings Lead poisoning was significantly more frequent in the case group (37.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/a9/IJPD-23-417.PMC3883371.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4340455", "abstract": "The physician's attitude towards death, a phenomenon which he frequently encounters in his work practice, is most of the times ambiguous, uncertain, lacking a philosophical significance coherent enough. During the period corresponding to the transition from life to death, when the human being who is about to relinquish life for good lives, suffers, understands and needs assistance, most of the physicians adopt a particular detachment conduct. The physician’s participation in assisting the patient, constant until then, natural, sharply decreases the moment the diagnosis has become, \"there is nothing else to be done\". This phrase “there is nothing else to be done” should be only the conclusion of one phase of the assistance given by a physician, the curative, healing assistance and the beginning of another one, the phase of “assisting the dying person”, a phase that has to be an integral part of the physician’s mission which represents a more difficult medicine, much more demanding for the physician. At this point, assistance, treatments depend on the ability of the person providing assistance to endure the fear of death in which he is included himself. The necessity of meeting the needs of the dying people has led to the drafting of “a charter of the rights of the dying”. Such charter was drafted during the symposium, “Terminally ill patient and helping person” organized by Wayne State University, Detroit, USA. Taking into account the idea that the dying person “has the right to live until the end” within the best possible conditions the palliative care have been developed. According to the French Society of Palliative Care, 1996, the palliative care aim is to ensuring the patient's quality of life (and not extending it by any means) and that of his family. In these conditions the pain control, the psychological, social and spiritual development are essential. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a9/70/CHSJ-40-2-134.PMC4340455.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3419442", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to further validate the Walking Impairment Questionnaire (WIQ) as a self-report tool to aid in the clinical identification of walking ability of patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). 132 patients with PAD and an ankle brachial index (ABI) ≤0.90 were enrolled; 123 provided complete data for the WIQ and standardized graded treadmill test. The WIQ scores were consistent with reported scores in other studies. The absolute claudication distance (ACD) ranged from 42.3 to 1589.2 meters; the peak walking time (PWT) ranged from 68 to 1800 seconds. Adjusted WIQ scores were positively and moderately associated with the log transformed ACD and PWT (r > .53, P < .001). Based on the area under the curve analysis, an overall WIQ score of 42.5 or less identified low performers (sensitivity 0.90, specificity 0.73); the combined subscale score of distance and stair of 75.5 or more identified high performers (sensitivity 0.41, specificity 0.90). We conclude that WIQ cut-offs appropriately classify walking performance in PAD patients, making this a potentially useful clinical tool. Consideration needs to be given to incorporating a standardized WIQ version into practice guidelines and the use of innovative strategies to facilitate clinical uptake.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/71/ab/PMC3419442.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3082126", "abstract": "Rosacea is a common chronic cutaneous disorder that primarily occurs on the convex surfaces of the central face and is often characterized by exacerbations and remissions. A case of a 52-yr-old woman visited our clinic in February 2008 complaining typical features of rosacea including multiple pinhead to rice-sized erythematous papules. We applied various conventional treatments including topical benzoyl peroxide and metronidazole as well as oral metronidazole, isotretinoin, and doxycycline. The lesions were not controlled but were rather aggravated by complications from these treatments. Therefore, we prescribed oral azithromycin, which has anti-inflammatory effects and reduces reactive oxygen species. Ten weeks after the administration of oral azithromycin, 500 mg per day for 2 weeks, the lesions had mostly disappeared and no specific side effects related to the azithromycin were noted. Oral azithromycin dosing 500 mg/day for 2 weeks is effective for treatment of intractable rosacea.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8c/a5/jkms-26-694.PMC3082126.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4300362", "abstract": "Purpose The purpose of this study is to compare high frequency ultrasonography (HFUS) and histpathologic assessment done by punch biopsy in order to determine depth of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), in both superficial and nodular BCCs prior to brachytherapy treatment. Material and methods This study includes 20 patients with 10 superficial and 10 nodular BCCs. First, punch biopsy was done to confirm the diagnosis and to measure tumour depth (Breslow rate). Subsequently, HFUS was done to measure tumour depth to search for correlation of these two techniques. Results Neither clear tendency nor significance of the punch biopsy vs. HFUS depth determination is observed. Depth value differences with both modalities resulted patient dependent and then consequence of its uncertainty. Conceptually, HFUS should determine the macroscopic lesion (gross tumour volume – GTV), while punch biopsy is able to detect the microscopic extension (clinical target volume – CTV). Uncertainties of HFUS are difficult to address, while punch biopsy is done just on a small lesion section, not necessarily the deepest one. Conclusions According to the results, HFUS is less accurate at very shallow depths. Nodular cases present higher depth determination differences than superficial ones. In our clinical practice, we decided to prescribe at 3 mm depth when HFUS measurements give depth lesion values smaller than this value.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/97/6c/JCB-6-24213.PMC4300362.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4614588", "abstract": "Pneumorrhachis as a relatively rare condition may be an indication of substantial intra-spinal column injury. Here we report a 39-year-old man was admitted because of low back pain and dyspenea after locating between motor vehicle and wall three days before admission. On arrival, physical exams and vital signs were normal. Computed tomography (CT) scan showed bilateral pleural effusion, fracture of ribs number 8, 9 and 10 in lower left side of thorax, fracture of vertebra in L2-L4, and air bubbles in upper thoracic spinal canal.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2a/b3/emerg-2-098.PMC4614588.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3272533", "abstract": "Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) is one of the leading causes of transfusion-related morbidity and mortality. However, it is frequently not diagnosed and under-reported, which could result in inappropriate treatment. Diagnostic definition for TRALI consists of hypoxia and bilateral pulmonary edema occurring during or within 6 hours of a transfusion in the absence of cardiac failure or intravascular volume overload. Here, we report a fatal case, which resulted from under-recognition and misdiagnosis of TRALI occurring during transfusion with packed red blood cells during a bilateral total knee replacement.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e9/f8/kjae-62-73.PMC3272533.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3390728", "abstract": "Spot urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (ACR) measurement has been suggested as a surrogate to 24-hr urine collection for the assessment of microalbuminuria, and cystatin C (cysC) is known as an advantageous marker for renal function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical values of spot urinary ACR and serum cysC for the assessment of diabetic nephropathy instead of 24-hr urine microalbumin in children and adolescents with diabetes. A total of 113 children and adolescents (age 12-19 yr, M:F = 47:66) with type 1 or 2 diabetes were enrolled. We evaluated the validity of spot urine ACR and serum cysC, and then compared them to 24-hr urine microalbumin and creatinine clearance. Spot urine ACR was correlated with 24-hr urine albumin excretion (R2 = 0.828, P = 0.001) and creatinine clearance (R2 = 0.249, P = 0.017). The ROC curve analysis of serum cysC demonstrated higher diagnostic accuracy than that of serum creatinine (AUC 0.732 vs 0.615). Both the measurements of spot urine ACR and serum cysC might better predict the presence of diabetic nephropathy than 24-hr urine microalbumin in childhood diabetic patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/8b/jkms-27-784.PMC3390728.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4610930", "abstract": "Anaphylaxis is an acute, potentially lethal, multisystem syndrome resulting from the sudden release of mast-cell- and basophile-derived mediators into the circulation. Common manifestations of anaphylactic reactions include urticaria, angioedema, nausea, vomiting, hypotension and cardiovascular collapse. Cardiovascular collapse is the first detected manifestation in up to 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1f/87/kjae-68-496.PMC4610930.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4818359", "abstract": "Objective(s): Berberine is one of the main alkaloids and it has been proven to have different pharmacological effects including inhibition of cell cycle and progression of apoptosis in various cancerous cells; however, its effects on cancer metastasis are not well known. Cancer cells obtain the ability to change their chemokine system and convert into metastatic cells. In this study, we examined the effect of berberine on breast cancer cell migration and its probable interaction with the chemokine system in cancer cells. Materials and Methods: The MCF-7 breast cancer cell line was cultured, and then, treated with berberine (10, 20, 40 and 80 μg/ml) for 24 hr. MTT assay was used in order to determine the cytotoxic effect of berberine on MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Wound healing assay was applied to determine the inhibitory effect of berberine on cell migration. Moreover, real-time quantitative PCR analysis of selected chemokine receptors was performed to determine the probable molecular mechanism underlying the effect of berberine on breast cancer cell migration. Results: The results of wound healing assay revealed that berberine decreases cell migration. Moreover, we found that the mRNA levels of some chemokine receptors were reduced after berberine treatment, and this may be the underlying mechanism for decreased cell migration. Conclusion: Our results indicate that berberine might be a potential preventive biofactor for human breast cancer metastasis by targeting chemokine receptor genes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/3d/IJBMS-19-125.PMC4818359.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4985401", "abstract": "Abstract Alcoholism is common among trauma patients and often lacks the appropriate monitoring. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), including delirium tremens (DT), can be associated with significant postoperative morbidity and mortality. However, appropriate acute pain management may protect against delirium; the administration of intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV - PCA) may not only alleviate pain, but also reduce the incidence of post-operative delirium. IV-PCA is widely used today; however, little attention has been paid to its influence on the development of AWS or DT post-surgery. Here we present a case in which the administration of IV-PCA may have delayed the onset of DT that interfered with postoperative care and the initiation of psychiatric consultation. The literature was reviewed to determine the potential mechanisms behind the effects of IV-PCA on the onset of AWS or DT. IV-PCA may delay the onset of DT. It is imperative to take into consideration trauma patients’ psychiatric history including answers to questions on alcoholism, so that when an IV-PCA is administered and then discontinued, adequate interventions to prevent further morbidity associated with AWS and DT can be initiated in sufficient time.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/d8/medi-94-e1829.PMC4985401.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4789469", "abstract": "Synaptic dysfunction is thought to play a major role in memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD). PARP-1 has been identified as an epigenetic regulator of plasticity and memory. Thus, we hypothesize that PARP-1 may be altered in postmortem hippocampus of individuals with AD compared to age-matched controls without neurologic disease. We found a reduced level of PARP-1 nucleolar immunohistochemical staining in hippocampal pyramidal cells in AD. Nucleolar PARP-1 staining ranged from dispersed and less intense to entirely absent in AD compared to the distinct nucleolar localization in hippocampal pyramidal neurons in controls. In cases of AD, the percentage of hippocampal pyramidal cells with nucleoli that were positive for both PARP-1 and the nucleolar marker fibrillarin was significantly lower than in controls. PARP-1 nucleolar expression emerges as a sensitive marker of functional changes in AD and suggests a novel role for PARP-1 dysregulation in AD pathology. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/54/c9/PMC4789469.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4244547", "abstract": "Osteolytic vertebral erosion is usually related to tumours, spondylitis or spondylodiscitis. Few reports in the literature describe lytic lesions of anterior lumbar vertebral bodies resulting from abdominal aortic aneurysm or false aneurysm. We report a case of abdominal aortic false aneurysm that caused lytic lesions of the second and third vertebral bodies in an 80-year-old man who underwent endovascular aneurysm repair. Fluoroscopy guided biopsy excluded infection or tumour. We performed a posterior spinal fusion and decompression because of bone loss of the second and third lumbar vertebral bodies and central stenosis. Postoperatively the patient showed satisfactory relief in low-back and thigh pain but, unfortunately, he died 1 month after surgery because of respiratory complications. This case suggests that when a lytic lesion of a lumbar vertebral body is discovered in a patient who has undergone endovascular aneurysm repair, an abdominal aortic false aneurysm may be the cause of the vertebral erosion even in cases without infective pathogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/6b/PMC4244547.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3999928", "abstract": "Dental sources of infection can produce acute and chronic maxillary sinusitis. In some cases, the source of the infection may be related to the presence of endodontic materials in the oral cavity. In this article, we report a case of retained gutta-percha in the maxillary sinus resulting in chronic sinusitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/32/34/PMC3999928.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4229814", "abstract": "Background: Traumatic injuries to teeth and their supporting structures during childhood are one of the major problems faced by the dentist in day to day practice. Children usually encounter minor accidents in their routine activities and hence, it of utmost importance to provide emergency care to reduce such outcomes. Most of children with dental trauma present late for treatment due to lack of awareness and knowledge among parents/caretakers resulting in unfavorable long-term prognosis. This study was conducted to evaluate by means of a questionnaire, the knowledge, and usual attitude of the parents/caretakers about the management of avulsed tooth in children of age group 5-14 years. Materials and Methods: The questionnaire containing 6 questions was distributed among 200 parents/caretakers who participated in the study. The questions assessed the knowledge and attitude of parents toward avulsed tooth and its management. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 17.0. Results: A lack of technical information regarding the preservation and management of avulsed tooth was observed among the parents/caretakers. The education status of the study population when associated with the knowledge variables of avulsion showed that most of the variables had statistically significant association with P < 0.04. Conclusion: These data reinforce the need to provide the population with some important information regarding the emergency management of avulsed tooth. This warrants the need of effective communication between dental professionals and caretakers for better handling of dental emergencies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2b/4c/JIOH-6-1.PMC4229814.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5266381", "abstract": "Purpose The purpose of this study was to study the clinical outcome for patients with metastases of the adrenal gland treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy. Materials and Methods Forty-six patients were studied retrospectively. The dose prescription was 40 Gy in four fractions. Dosimetric analysis was performed using the dose volume histograms while clinical outcome was assessed using actuarial analysis with determination of the overall survival (OS) and local control (LC) rates. Results The planning objectives were met for all patients. With a median follow-up period of 7.6 months, at the last follow-up 42 patients (91.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ba/a2/crt-2016-057.PMC5266381.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3708632", "abstract": "Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) was first described in 1872 by Moritz Kaposi. In 1994, Chang et al. first identified DNA sequences corresponding to human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8) in AIDS-associated Kaposi sarcoma biopsies. It is now believed that presence of HHV-8 is necessary but not sufficient to cause KS. Other factors like immunosuppressive therapy also play a role. We describe an HIV-negative elderly patient who developed KS of skin and mucous membrane after prolonged use of corticosteroids for knee pain. The patient was positive for HHV-8.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f7/f4/jima-44-1-09317.PMC3708632.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3015339", "abstract": "Background: Since the advent of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, there has been controversy about the investigation of the bile ducts and the management of common bile duct stones. Routine peroperative cholangiography (POC) in all cases has been recommended. We have adopted a policy of not performing routine POC, and the results of 700 cases are reported. Methods: Since 1990, all patients have undergone pre-operative ultrasound scan. We have performed selective preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) because of a clinical history of jaundice and/or pancreatitis, abnormal liver function tests and ultra-sound evidence of dilated bile ducts (N=78, 11.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/60/jsls-3-1-23.PMC3015339.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3299222", "abstract": "Mutations in the vasopressin V2 receptor gene are responsible for two human tubular disorders: X-linked congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, due to a loss of function of the mutant V2 receptor, and the nephrogenic syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis, due to a constitutive activation of the mutant V2 receptor. This latter recently described disease may be diagnosed from infancy to adulthood, as some carriers remain asymptomatic for many years. Symptomatic children, however, typically present with clinical and biological features suggesting inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion with severe hyponatremia and high urine osmolality, but a low plasma arginine vasopressin level. To date, only two missense mutations in the vasopressin V2 receptor gene have been found in the reported patients. The pathophysiology of the disease requires fuller elucidation as the phenotypic variability observed in patients bearing the same mutations remains unexplained. The treatment is mainly preventive with fluid restriction, but urea may also be proposed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2a/94/PMC3299222.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4434016", "abstract": "[Purpose] Temporomandibular disorder is one of the many different adverse health conditions that can be triggered by stress. Therefore, a biopsychosocial model has been proposed to characterize the multifactorial nature of temporomandibular disorder. The aim of the present study was investigate the correlation of salivary cortisol levels with the activities of the masseter and anterior temporal muscles of patients with different degrees of temporomandibular disorder. [Subjects and Methods] Forty-nine women between 18 and 40 years of age with a diagnosis of myogenous temporomandibular disorder based on the Research Diagnostic Criteria for temporomandibular disorders were evaluated using the Fonseca Index to determine the degree of the disorder. Salivary cortisol levels were determined and surface electromyography was used to evaluate electrical activity in the masticatory muscles. [Results] Positive correlations were found among the degree of temporomandibular disorder, electromyographic activity and salivary cortisol: as women with more severe temporomandibular disorder had greater electrical activity in the muscles analyzed, especially the anterior temporal muscle, and higher levels of cortisol. [Conclusion] Muscle activity was greater among individuals with severe temporomandibular disorder and positive correlations were found among electromyographic activity, salivary cortisol and the degree of temporomandibular disorder severity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b3/c4/jpts-27-1227.PMC4434016.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4664549", "abstract": "Purpose To report a case of a young patient with retinitis pigmentosa (RP), essential iris atrophy, and glaucoma. Case report This report presents a case of a 22-year-old female patient with unilateral glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, increased cup–disc ratio, iris atrophy, peripheral anterior synechiae, and bilateral RP. Discussion The patient presented glaucoma due to the iridocorneal endothelial syndrome, despite low age. RP is a bilateral disorder that may be associated with angle-closure glaucoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5f/c3/opth-9-2139.PMC4664549.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4012258", "abstract": "With unprecedented understanding of molecular events underlying human cancer in this genomic era, a large number of drugs specifically targeting hypothesized oncogenic drivers to which tumors are potentially addicted to have been developed and continue to be developed. These targeted cancer therapies are being actively tested in clinical trials with mixed successes. This editorial provides an overview on successful targeted cancer drugs on the market and those drugs that are in late clinical development stages. Importantly, the article lays out main challenges in developing molecular targeted therapies and potential path forward to overcome these challenges, as well as opportunities for China in this new era of targeted agents. The editorial serves as an introduction to the Targeted Cancer Therapies series that will review in depth of major pathways and drugs targeting these pathways to be published in the coming issues of the Chinese Journal of Cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/73/cjc-30-01-001.PMC4012258.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4983307", "abstract": "Objectives: This study aimed to compare the incidence of white spot lesions (WSLs) around orthodontic bands following the application of two glass ionomer (GI) cements namely GC Gold Label and GC Fuji Plus for six to 12 months. Materials and Methods: A total of 186 permanent first molars of orthodontic patients requiring banding of at least two permanent first molars were chosen. The teeth were examined for caries and presence of WSLs by visual inspection and by DIAGNOdent (scores 0–29). Orthodontic bands were randomly cemented to the right or left molars using GC Gold Label or GC Fuji Plus GI cements. Samples were randomly divided into three groups and bands were removed after six, nine and 12 months in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The teeth were then examined for caries and presence of WSLs by visual inspection. DIAGNOdent was used on the buccal and lingual surfaces to determine the presence of WSLs. The data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA, multivariate repeated measures ANOVA, the Kruskal Wallis and the Mann-Whitney tests. Results: Totally 174 teeth were evaluated. DIAGNOdent scores were not significantly different before cementation and after removal of bands in buccal and lingual surfaces of the teeth in the two cement groups. Lesions simulating WSLs were seen in 21 out of 174 teeth but DIAGNOdent scores were not indicative of caries. Conclusion: Remarkable WSLs were not detected visually or by DIAGNOdent at six, nine or 12 months following the cementation of bands with two GI cements.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/28/c7/PMC4983307.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4334436", "abstract": "The transcriptome of Thinopyrum elongatum under water deficit stress was analyzed using RNA-Seq technology. The results showed that genes involved in processes of amplification of stress signaling, reductions in oxidative damage, creation of protectants, and roots development were expressed differently, which played an important role in the response to water deficit. The Th. elongatum transcriptome research highlights the activation of a large set of water deficit-related genes in this species and provides a valuable resource for future functional analysis of candidate genes in the water deficit stress response.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/df/81/PMC4334436.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3228375", "abstract": " Objective. To review our experience with intratympanic steroids (ITSs) for the treatment of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL), emphasizing the ideal time to perform follow-up audiograms. Methods. Retrospective case review of patients diagnosed with ISSNHL treated with intratympanic methylprednisolone. Injections were repeated weekly with a total of 3 injections. Improvement was defined as an improved pure-tone average ≥20 dB or speech-discrimination score ≥20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5f/80/PMC3228375.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5362000", "abstract": "Case summary A 14-year-old, spayed female domestic shorthair cat was evaluated because of a right adrenal mass. The referring veterinarian had started treatment for hypokalemia and systemic arterial hypertension. During the initial evaluation the cat was alert and responsive, and serum potassium concentration was within the reference range. Serum concentrations of aldosterone and progesterone were increased. Atrophy of the contralateral adrenal and an exaggerated response of cortisol to stimulation with adrenocorticotropic hormone suggested hypersecretion of cortisol. Unilateral adrenalectomy was performed and recovery was uneventful. Histologic examination of the mass revealed an adrenocortical tumor. After surgery, clinical signs of hypercortisolism, hyperaldosteronism and hyperprogesteronism were no longer observed, and neither potassium supplementation nor antihypertensive treatment were needed. Relevance and novel information In cases with an adrenocortical tumor, clinicians should investigate whether the tumor hypersecretes glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, sex steroids or combinations of these. Hypersecretion of more than one adrenal hormone may occur in a cat with an adrenocortical tumor.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/25/97/10.1177_2055116915617970.PMC5362000.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3703876", "abstract": "Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a novel biomarker of LDL clearance and a therapeutic target of cardiovascular disease. We examined the effects of aerobic exercise training in modulating PCSK9 abundance and hepatic sterol regulation in high-fat-fed C57BL/6 mice. Mice (n = 8) were assigned to a low-fat (LF), high-fat (HF), or an HF with exercise (HF + EX) group for 8 weeks. The HF + EX group was progressively trained 5 days/week on a motorized treadmill. The HF + EX group was protected against body weight (BW) gain and diet-induced dyslipidemia compared with the HF group. The HF + EX group demonstrated an increase in hepatic PCSK9 mRNA (1.9-fold of HF control, P < 0.05) and a reduction in plasma PCSK9 (14", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/95/67/PMC3703876.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3235893", "abstract": "In the past, ABO blood group incompatibility was considered an absolute contraindication for kidney transplantation. Progress in defined desensitization practice and immunologic understanding has allowed increasingly successful ABO incompatible transplantation during recent years. This paper focused on the history, disserted outcomes, desensitization modalities and protocols, posttransplant immunologic surveillance, and antibody-mediated rejection in transplantation with an ABO incompatible kidney allograft. The mechanism underlying accommodation and antibody-mediated injury was also described.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/86/PMC3235893.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4975168", "abstract": "Background: The validity of the entire renal function tests as a diagnostic tool depends substantially on the Biological Reference Interval (BRI) of urea. Establishment of BRI of urea is difficult partly because exclusion criteria for selection of reference data are quite rigid and partly due to the compartmentalization considerations regarding age and sex of the reference individuals. Moreover, construction of Biological Reference Curve (BRC) of urea is imperative to highlight the partitioning requirements. Materials and Methods: This a priori study examines the data collected by measuring serum urea of 3202 age and sex matched individuals, aged between 1 and 80 years, by a kinetic UV Urease/GLDH method on a Roche Cobas 6000 auto-analyzer. Results: Mann-Whitney U test of the reference data confirmed the partitioning requirement by both age and sex. Further statistical analysis revealed the incompatibility of the data for a proposed parametric model. Hence the data was non-parametrically analysed. BRI was found to be identical for both sexes till the 2nd decade, and the BRI for males increased progressively 6th decade onwards. Four non-parametric models were postulated for construction of BRC: Gaussian kernel, double kernel, local mean and local constant, of which the last one generated the best-fitting curves. Conclusion: Clinical decision making should become easier and diagnostic implications of renal function tests should become more meaningful if this BRI is followed and the BRC is used as a desktop tool in conjunction with similar data for serum creatinine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/a2/ejifcc-24-061.PMC4975168.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3015302", "abstract": "Background: Recent advances in laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgery have made it possible to perform esophagectomy using minimally invasive techniques. The aim of this report was to present our preliminary experience with minimally invasive esophagectomy. Methods: We reviewed our experience on eight patients who underwent minimally invasive esophagectomy using either laparoscopic and/or thoracoscopic techniques from June 1996 to May 1997. Indications for esophagectomy included stage I carcinoma (5), palliative resection (1), Barrett's with high grade dysplasia (1) and end stage achalasia (1). Results: The average age was 68 years (54-82). The surgical approach to esophagectomy included laparoscopic transhiatal esophagectomy with cervical anastomosis (n=4), thoracoscopic and laparoscopic esophagectomy with cervical anastomosis (n=1), and laparoscopic mobilization with right mini-thoracotomy and intra-thoracic anastomosis (n=3). Conversion to mini-laparotomy was required in two patients (25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9c/31/jsls-2-3-243.PMC3015302.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4632136", "abstract": "We describe a patient with an asymptomatic complete unroofed coronary sinus (CS) syndrome associated with the CS stenosis in the absence of a persistent left superior vena cava (SVC) as identified on coronary computed tomography angiography. There was a large defect between the CS and the left atrium (i.e. a large left-to-right shunt), but an unusual combination of the absence of a persistent left SVC (i.e. no risk for brain abscess due to the absence of a right-to-left shunt) and the CS stenosis (i.e. a markedly reduced degree of a left-to-right shunt), resulting in an asymptomatic presentation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c0/b3/iranjradiol-12-03-16063.PMC4632136.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3298252", "abstract": "Mimivirus, the largest virus known to date, is an amebal pathogen like Legionella spp. When mimivirus was used as an antigen in a migration inhibition factor assay, seroconversion was found in patients with both community- and hospital-acquired pneumonia. Mimivirus DNA was found in respiratory samples of patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/43/PMC3298252.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4629045", "abstract": "Accurate measurement of B and T cell responses is a valuable tool to study autoimmunity, allergies, immunity to pathogens, and host-pathogen interactions and assist in the design and evaluation of T cell vaccines and immunotherapies. In this context, it is desirable to elucidate a method to select validated reference sets of epitopes to allow detection of T and B cells. However, the ever-growing information contained in the Immune Epitope Database (IEDB) and the differences in quality and subjects studied between epitope assays make this task complicated. In this study, we develop a novel method to automatically select reference epitope sets according to a categorization system employed by the IEDB. From the sets generated, three epitope sets (EBV, mycobacteria and dengue) were experimentally validated by detection of T cell reactivity ex vivo from human donors. Furthermore, a web application that will potentially be implemented in the IEDB was created to allow users the capacity to generate customized epitope sets.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/7c/PMC4629045.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3715709", "abstract": "Purpose To identify the parameters on noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) that best predict the success of shock wave lithotripsy (SWL). Materials and Methods We reviewed the records of 75 patients who underwent SWL for urinary calculi measuring 5 to 20 mm. Using NCCT images, we estimated the largest stone cross-sectional area and contoured the inner edge of the stone. Clinical outcome was classified as successful (stone-free or <4 mm in diameter) or failed (stone fragments, ≥4 mm). The impact of preoperative parameters was evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Results The overall success rate was 73.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/77/kju-54-454.PMC3715709.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3628215", "abstract": "Peripheral nerve regeneration is a unique process in which cellular rather than tissue response is involved. Depending on the extent and proximity of the lesion and the age and type of the neuronal soma, the cell body may either initiate a reparative response or may die. Microsurgical intervention may alter the prognosis after a peripheral nerve injury but to a certain extent. By altering the biochemical microenvironment of the neuron, we can increase the proportion of neurons that survive the injury and initiate the reparative response.  Thyroid hormone critically regulates tissue growth and differentiation and plays a crucial role during organ development. Furthermore, recent research has provided new insight into thyroid hormone cellular action. Thyroid hormone regulates stress response intracellular signaling and targets molecules important for cytoskeletal stability and cell integrity. Changes in thyroid hormone signaling occur in nerve and other tissues, with important physiological consequences. The interest in thyroid hormone in the context of nerve regeneration has recently been revived.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/48/55/PMC3628215.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3534384", "abstract": "Obesity-induced adipose inflammation is characterized by recruitment of macrophages to adipose tissue and release of inflammatory cytokines. 4-1BB, a costimulatory receptor, modulates inflammatory processes through interaction with its ligand 4-1BBL on immune cell surfaces. In this study, we examined whether a 4-1BB/4-1BBL interaction between adipocytes and macrophages participates in obesity-induced adipose inflammation. We found that 4-1BB was expressed on adipocytes and was upregulated by obesity-related factors, which also enhanced 4-1BBL expression on macrophages. 4-1BB and/or 4-1BBL agonists, respectively, activated inflammatory signaling molecules (MAPK/IκBα and MAPK/Akt) in adipocytes and macrophages and enhanced the release of inflammatory cytokines (MCP-1, TNF-α, and IL-6). Moreover, disruption of the 4-1BB/4-1BBL interaction decreased the release of inflammatory cytokines from contact cocultured adipocytes/macrophages. These findings indicate that 4-1BB/4-1BBL-mediated bidirectional signaling in adipocytes/macrophages promotes adipose inflammation. 4-1BB and 4-1BBL may be useful targets for protection against obesity-induced adipose inflammation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/20/6c/PMC3534384.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4009598", "abstract": "  Implantable cardioverter defibrillators have been instrumental in the health and safety of patients who are at increased risk of sudden death by ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Consensus on the perioperative management of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices has suggested that certain surgical interventions (including transurethral resection of the prostate) may interfere with the sensing capability of the device, thereby resulting in unforeseen adverse outcomes. However, improvements in the implantable cardioverter defibrillators have made it less susceptible to surgical interference. In addition, current guidelines recommend deactivation of the implantable cardioverter defibrillators to an asynchronous mode prior to most surgical interventions. We present the first two case reports in which implantable cardioverter defibrillators were not deactivated prior to GreenLight 180-W XPS laser-guided transurethral resection of the prostate. We left the implantable cardioverter defibrillators activated to allow them to detect and treat lethal arrhythmias by direct rather than extrinsic cardioversion. There was no cardiac arrhythmia incident in these two cases. Laser technology is not a documented source of electromagnetic interference in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators. There is no current evidence that links lasers to implantable cardioverter defibrillators malfunction. With increasing numbers of patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators undergoing many different laser surgical procedures, further studies are warranted to analyze in depth the effects of laser therapy on implantable cardioverter defibrillators function and update in current guidelines.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a4/2a/hlv-06-060.PMC4009598.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2946042", "abstract": "The percutaneous placement of a totally implantable vascular access port via the subclavian vein is commonly used in patients with a need for multiple intravenous infusions such as administration of chemotherapy. Unfortunately, the use of central venous ports have been associated with adverse events that are hazardous to patients. Here we report the case of a 5-year-old child who died of catastrophic hemothorax after several attempts at insertion of an implantable subclavian venous access device and removal of an infected port. Massive hemothorax occurred on the side contralateral to unsuccessful attempts at insertion of a new port and ipsilateral to the removal of an infected port. We could not confirm the cause of death and hemothorax without autopsy, but we discuss several possible causes of massive hemothorax.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/e1/kjae-59-214.PMC2946042.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2814134", "abstract": "A quantitative frequency-domain model of induction-based magnetoreception is presented for elasmobranch fishes. We show that orientation with respect to the geomagnetic field can be determined by synchronous detection of electrosensory signals at harmonics of the vestibular frequency. The sensitivity required for this compass-sense mechanism is shown to be less than that known from behavioral experiments. Recent attached-magnet experiments have called into doubt the induction-based mechanism for magnetoreception. We show that the use of attached magnets would interfere with an induction-based mechanism unless relative movement between the electrosensory system and the attached magnet is less than 100 μm. This suggests that further experiments may be required to eliminate induction as a basis for magnetoreception.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/66/e3/PMC2814134.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2173733", "abstract": "Akey role for DAG lipase activity in the control of axonal growth and guidance in vitro and in vivo has been established. For example, DAG lipase activity is required for FGF-stimulated calcium influx into neuronal growth cones, and this response is both necessary and sufficient for an axonal growth response. The mechanism that couples the hydrolysis of DAG to the calcium response is not known. The initial hydrolysis of DAG at the sn-1 position (by DAG lipase) will generate 2-arachidonylglycerol, and this molecule is well established as an endogenous cannabinoid receptor agonist in the brain. In the present paper, we show that in rat cerebellar granule neurons, CB1 cannabinoid receptor antagonists inhibit axonal growth responses stimulated by N-cadherin and FGF2. Furthermore, three CB1 receptor agonists mimic the N-cadherin/FGF2 response at a step downstream from FGF receptor activation, but upstream from calcium influx into cells. In contrast, we could find no evidence for the CB1 receptor coupling the TrkB neurotrophin receptor to an axonal growth response in the same neurons. The observation that the CB1 receptor can couple the activated FGF receptor to an axonal growth response raises novel therapeutic opportunities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/26/41/200210164.PMC2173733.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4327589", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to evaluate the metal-ceramic bond strength (MCBS) of 6 metal-ceramic pairs (2 Ni-Cr alloys and 1 Pd-Ag alloy with 2 dental ceramics) and correlate the MCBS values with the differences between the coefficients of linear thermal expansion (CTEs) of the metals and ceramics. Verabond (VB) Ni-Cr-Be alloy, Verabond II (VB2), Ni-Cr alloy, Pors-on 4 (P), Pd-Ag alloy, and IPS (I) and Duceram (D) ceramics were used for the MCBS test and dilatometric test. Forty-eight ceramic rings were built around metallic rods (3.0 mm in diameter and 70.0 mm in length) made from the evaluated alloys. The rods were subsequently embedded in gypsum cast in order to perform a tensile load test, which enabled calculating the CMBS. Five specimens (2.0 mm in diameter and 12.0 mm in length) of each material were made for the dilatometric test. The chromel-alumel thermocouple required for the test was welded into the metal test specimens and inserted into the ceramics. ANOVA and Tukey's test revealed significant differences (p=0.01) for the MCBS test results (MPa), with PI showing higher MCBS (67.72) than the other pairs, which did not present any significant differences. The CTE (10-6 °C-1) differences were: VBI (0.54), VBD (1.33), VB2I (-0.14), VB2D (0.63), PI (1.84) and PD (2.62). Pearson's correlation test (r=0.17) was performed to evaluate of correlation between MCBS and CTE differences. Within the limitations of this study and based on the obtained results, there was no correlation between MCBS and CTE differences for the evaluated metal-ceramic pairs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1d/b5/1678-7757-jaos-17-02-0122.PMC4327589.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3385502", "abstract": "Fahr's disease is a rare disorder of slowly progressive cognitive, psychiatric, and motor decline associated with idiopathic basal ganglia calcification (IBGC) and widespread calcification in the brain and cerebellum. Acute presentation of IBGC is most often as a seizure disorder; however, we present a case of an acute IBCG presentation in which the cause of the deterioration was an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4f/d6/JCIS-2-27.PMC3385502.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3265093", "abstract": "Sarcopenia is an age-related clinical condition characterized by the progressive loss of motor units and wasting of muscle fibers resulting in decreased muscle function. The molecular mechanisms leading to sarcopenia are not completely identified, but the increased oxidative damage occurring in muscle cells during the course of aging represents one of the most accepted underlying pathways. In fact, skeletal muscle is a highly oxygenated tissue and the generation of reactive oxygen species is particularly enhanced in both contracting and at rest conditions. It has been suggested that oral antioxidant supplementation may contribute at reducing indices of oxidative stress both in animal and human models by reinforcing the natural endogenous defenses. Aim of the present paper is to discuss present evidence related to possible benefits of oral antioxidants in the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6e/9e/PMC3265093.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4554758", "abstract": "Dysregulated calcium signaling has been increasingly implicated in tumor dissemination and progression. In a recent study, we investigated the mechanism underlying calcium-mediated invasion and metastasis in melanoma and discovered that hyperactive Ca2+ oscillation in melanoma cells enhanced invasion and metastasis by promoting invadopodium formation and extracellular matrix remodeling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fa/44/kmco-02-04-1002714.PMC4554758.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4834013", "abstract": "Background: Although the onset of anemia during infectious disease is commonly correlated with production of inflammatory cytokines, the mechanisms by which cytokines induce anemia are poorly defined. This study focused on the mechanism research. Methods: Different types of mice were infected perorally with Toxoplasma gondii strain ME49. At the indicated times, samples from each mouse were harvested, processed, and analyzed individually. Blood samples were analyzed using a Coulter Counter and red blood cell (RBC) survival was measured by biotinylation. Levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and inducible protein 10 (IP-10) mRNA in liver tissue were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: T. gondii-infected mice exhibited anemia due to a decrease in both erythropoiesis and survival time of RBC in the circulation (P < 0.02). In addition, infection-stimulated anemia was associated with fecal occult, supporting previous literature that hemorrhage is a consequence of T. gondii infection in mice. Infection-induced anemia was abolished in interferon gamma (IFNγ) and IFNγ receptor deficient mice (P < 0.05) but was still evident in mice lacking TNF-α, iNOS, phagocyte NADPH oxidase or IP-10 (P < 0.02). Neither signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) deficient mice nor 129S6 controls exhibited decreased erythropoiesis, but rather suffered from an anemia resulting solely from increased loss of circulating RBC. Conclusions: Infection-stimulated decrease in erythropoiesis and losses of RBC have distinct mechanistic bases. These results show that during T. gondii infection, IFNγ is responsible for an anemia that results from both a decrease in erythropoiesis and a STAT1 independent loss of circulating RBC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/bd/CMJ-128-948.PMC4834013.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5005573", "abstract": " Objective. To determine whether the incidence of malignancy is increased in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared to a matched comparison cohort and to identify risk for any individual malignancy in RA. Methods. A cohort of 813 Olmsted County, Minnesota, residents who first fulfilled 1987 ACR criteria for RA in 1980–2007 was previously identified by medical record review. Medical records of 813 RA cases and a comparison cohort of age and sex matched Olmsted County residents without RA were evaluated retrospectively for cancer occurrence. Patients in both cohorts were followed until death, migration from Olmsted County, or 12/31/2014. Results. The RA and non-RA cohorts (mean age at incidence/index date: 55.9 [SD: 15.7] years; 68.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d8/14/PMC5005573.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4352503", "abstract": "The gut microbiota plays a key role in health and immune system education and surveillance. The delicate balance between microbial growth and containment is controlled by the immune system. However, this balance is disrupted in cases of chronic viral infections such as HIV. This virus is capable of drastically altering the immune system and gastrointestinal environment leading to significant changes to the gut microbiota and mucosal permeability resulting in microbial translocation from the gut into the peripheral blood. The changes made locally in the gut have far-reaching consequences on the other organs of the body starting in the liver, where microbes and their products are normally filtered out, and extending to the blood and even brain. Microbial translocation and their downstream effects such as increased indolamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) enzyme expression and activity create a self-sustaining feedback loop which enhances HIV disease progression and constitute a vicious cycle of inflammation and immune activation combining viral and bacterial factors. Understanding this self-perpetuating cycle could be a key element in developing new therapies aimed at the gut microbiota and its fallout after infection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/36/ff/PMC4352503.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2851841", "abstract": "The peptidoglycan layer is a vital component of the bacterial cell wall. The existing paradigm describes the peptidoglycan network as a static structure that is cross-linked predominantly by 4→3 transpeptide linkages. However, the non-classical 3→3 linkages predominate the transpeptide networking of the peptidoglycan layer of non-replicating M. tuberculosis . The molecular basis of these linkages, their significance to the physiology of the peptidoglycan layer, virulence and susceptibility of M. tuberculosis to drugs remain undefined. Here, we identify MT2594 (Rv2518c) as an L,D-transpeptidase that generates 3→3 linkages in M. tuberculosis. We show that the loss of this gene leads to altered colony morphology, loss of virulence and increased susceptibility to amoxicillin–clavulanate during the chronic phase of infection. This suggests that 3→3 cross-linking is vital to the physiology of the peptidoglycan layer. Although a functional homolog exists, expression of MT2594 is dominant throughout the growth phases of M. tuberculosis. The 4→3 transpeptide linkages are targeted by one of the most widely used classes of antibacterial drugs in human clinical use today, namely β-lactams. Recently, meropenem–clavulanate was shown to be effective against drug resistant M. tuberculosis . Our study suggests that a combination of an L,D-transpeptidase and a β-lactamase inhibitors could effectively target persisters during chronic phase of TB.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/4f/PMC2851841.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3196978", "abstract": "At the present time, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, or immunosuppressive treatments of multiple sclerosis (MS) are mainly effective in the early phases of the disease but are of less advantage in progressive phases. Current therapeutic strategies of both primary and secondary progressive MS are rare. One alternative may be intrathecal application of triamcinolone acetonide (TCA). Number of papers deal with advantages and disadvantages of intrathecal administration in MS. Former trials lacked detailed selection of MS patients, with small sample sizes, low steroid dosages, and only a small number of intrathecal administration of short acting steroids. The present paper summarizes recent trials performed following a different treatment regime. They were conducted in patients with progressive MS suffering mainly from spinal symptoms and documented a significant improvement of EDSS and walking distance (WD). Intrathecal TCA administration is a proposal to take into account as one therapy option in patients with a progressive clinical course and predominantly spinal symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/34/05/PMC3196978.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3699674", "abstract": "Autosomal dominant hereditary spastic paraplegia (AD-HSP) is due to mutations in the \"spastin\" gene (SPAST gene) encoding the AAA protein. The main clinical features of \"pure\" HSP are progressive lower-limb spasticity with corticospinal tracts and dorsal column degeneration without peripheral neuropathy. Here we report the case of HSP with novel SPAST gene mutation that misdiagnosed with subacute combined degeneration initially. A 58-year-old man with gait disturbance came to our hospital. He was unable to regulate his steps by himself. The impaired gait began 3 years after he had undergone subtotal gastrectomy and chemotherapy for 6 months. Thereafter, he started feeling tingling sensations in the hands and feet and acquired gait difficulties. He denied having a family history of abnormal gait or developmental problem. We diagnosed him with subacute combined degeneration on the evidence of history of gastrectomy, lower normal limit of vitamin B12 (363 pg/ml), apparent absence of vibration sensations and paresthesia in the feet. He was intramuscularly administered cyanocobalamin regularly. However, there was no improvement in his condition. We reconsidered his symptoms and signs, decided to examine the SPAST gene, which is the most common mutation in HSP. The SPAST gene, c.870+1delG, heterozygote, splicing mutation is detected from the gene sample. There was no previous information of this polymorphism or mutation at this locus. We examined his two children, and the same mutation was founded in his son. We report a patient of novel SPAST gene mutation with AD-HSP which is misdiagnosed with SCD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f8/7c/en-22-128.PMC3699674.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2664460", "abstract": "We developed Cre-loxP-based systems, termed CRTEIL and CETRIZ, which allow gene switching in a noninvasive manner. Single transfection with pCRTEIL resulted in predominant expression of red fluorescence. Cotransfection with pCRTEIL and Cre-expression plasmid (pCAG/NCre) caused switching from red to green fluorescence. Similarly, cotransfection with pCETRIZ and pCAG/NCre resulted in change of green to red fluorescence. These noninvasive systems will be useful in cell lineage analysis, since descendants of cells exhibiting newly activated gene expression can be continuously monitored in noninvasive fashion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/ce/PMC2664460.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5012843", "abstract": "Background The recurrent civil conflict in Somalia has impeded progress toward improving health and health care, with lack of data and poor performance of health indicators. This study aimed at making inference about Banadir region by exploring morbidity and mortality trends at Banadir Hospital. This is one of the few functional hospitals during war. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted with data collected at Banadir Hospital for the period of January 2008–December 2012. The data were aggregated from patient records and summarized on a morbidity and mortality surveillance form with respect to age groups and stratified by sex. The main outcome was the number of patients that died in the hospital. Chi-square tests were used to evaluate the association between sex and hospital mortality. Results Conditions of infectious origin were the major presentations at the hospital. The year 2011 recorded the highest number of cases of diarrhea and mortality due to diarrhea. The stillbirth rate declined during the study period from 272 to 48 stillbirths per 1,000 live births by 2012. The sum of total cases that were attended to at the hospital by the end of 2012 was four times the number at the baseline year of the study in 2008; however, the overall mortality rate among those admitted declined between 2008 and 2012. Conclusion There was reduction in patient mortality at the hospital over the study period. Data from Banadir Hospital are consistent with findings from Banadir region and could give credible public health reflections for the region given the lack of data on a population level.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b0/7b/ijgm-9-303.PMC5012843.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3438651", "abstract": "Cases of sight onset after extended periods of congenital blindness provide windows into visual development and brain plasticity. Such cases are extremely rare in the developed world. Here, we make the argument that in meeting a public health challenge in the developing world, that of providing treatment to curably blind children, we have the opportunity to have a beneficial impact on science and society simultaneously. A recent initiative, Project Prakash, is motivated by these twin goals. We briefly describe this effort, some of its early results, and also the caveats that need to be kept in mind when interpreting the findings.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/20/26/medrep-04-17.PMC3438651.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3494213", "abstract": "Background: Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in the world. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of aerobic exercise on serum inflammatory markers in untrained middle-aged women. Methods: Nineteen healthy female middle-aged were selected by convenience sampling method and were randomly divided into two experimental (n=11) and control (n=8) groups. The exercise protocol included aerobic exercise training lasted for 6 months and 3 sessions per week and every session lasted for 60 minutes and with intensity of 55–65 percent of maximum heart rate reserve (MHR). Blood samples were taken to measure serum leptin and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) before and after aerobic training period. General linear-Repeated measures (GL-RM) was used to comparing of within, Interactive and between means groups. The level of significance was set at P< 0.05. Results: The level of serum leptin in middle-aged women did not change significant. However, the levels of CRP during this period did not change significantly. Conclusion: Six months of aerobic exercise does not induce significant change in serum levels of CRP, while leptin levels reduced in middle-aged women. Regular physical activity probably causes decrease in serum leptin level if body mass index and body fat mass reduce simultaneously.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1b/92/ijph-41-36.PMC3494213.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2948288", "abstract": "The nature of the relationship between crossing over and failed segregation in human oocytes is of obvious interest. A recent paper by Cheng and colleagues provides important insights into the distribution of crossover events (as marked by MLH1 foci) in human oocytes and raises complex questions regarding discrepancies between direct cytological assessment of exchange and measurement of crossing over by linkage analysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/bb/1757-594X-0001-0000000086.PMC2948288.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897083", "abstract": "Bovine mastitis is very common in cows of both developed and developing countries. The prevalence of clinical and subclinical mastitis (SCM) varies from region to region. Hence, the present study was carried out to determine the prevalence of mastitis using three diagnostic tests by considering different risk factors like age, lactation, breed, season, quarters, and herd. The results showed that surf field mastitis test (SFMT) is the most sensitive test for diagnosis of bovine mastitis, the older age and cows with later part of lactation period were more prone to bovine mastitis, and exotic breeds like Holstein freshen (HF) were more susceptible to bovine mastitis. The highest incidence of mastitis was recorded in monsoon season. The prevalence of subclinical and clinical mastitis was more in single and two quarters, respectively, and the rate of bovine mastitis was more in unorganized herds. The study concluded that SCM is directly associated with age, lactation period, and environmental factors of the cow and clinical mastitis is more associated with breed of the cow and environmental conditions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/7e/PMC4897083.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3821943", "abstract": " Background. Adipokines have been proved to relate with osteoarthritis (OA). As a recently discovered adipokine, nesfatin-1 relationship with OA has not been reported. Aim. To determine the levels of nesfatin-1 in serum and synovial fluid (SF) from patients with and without OA; to examine the correlation between nesfatin-1 levels and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), Type IIA Collagen N Propeptide (PIIANP), and IL-18 (interleukin-18) levels in serum or synovial fluid. Methods. Serum and SF were collected from knee OA patients and healthy persons, respectively. Five articular tissues were obtained during TKR for immunohistochemistry (IHC). Nesfatin-1 levels, hsCRP, PIIANP, and IL-18 in serum and SF were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results. Nesfatin-1 gene was expressed in OA-affected articular cartilage. OA serum contained significantly higher levels of nesfatin-1, as compared to serum from healthy controls (P < 0.05), and nesfatin-1 levels in OA serum exceeded those in paired SF samples (P < 0.001). Significant correlation was found between serum nesfatin-1 and hsCRP levels in OA patients (r = 0.593, P = 0.00005) and also synovial nesfatin-1 and IL-18 levels (r = 0.560, P = 0.0017). Conclusion. Nesfatin-1 is present in articular tissues and may contribute to the physiopathologic changes in OA. Nesfatin-1, accompanied with hsCRP and IL-18, could be new molecular makers to speculate OA progression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/93/8c/PMC3821943.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4451298", "abstract": " Objectives. The aims of this study were to perform a cultural translation of the DMSES and evaluate the psychometric properties of the translated scale in a Korean population with type 2 diabetics. Methods. This study was conducted in patients with diabetes recruited from university hospitals. The first stage of this study involved translating the DMSES into Korean using a forward- and backward-translation technique. The content validity was assessed by an expert group. In the second stage, the psychometric properties of the Korean version of the DMSES (K-DMSES) were evaluated. Results. The content validity of the K-DMSES was satisfactory. Sixteen-items clustered into four-subscales were extracted by exploratory factor analysis, and supported by confirmatory factor analysis. The construct validity of the K-DMSES with the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities scale was satisfactory (r = 0.50, P<0.001). The Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient were 0.92 and 0.85 (P<0.001; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e0/7c/PMC4451298.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3042015", "abstract": "Purpose To report a case of bilateral acute angle-closure glaucoma after oral administration of cabergoline for the treatment of galactorrhea. Methods A diagnosis of secondary drug-induced angle-closure glaucoma was made in a patient with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and myopic refractive shift, which was confirmed by ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) of the ciliary body and anterior segment, sonography, and optical coherence tomography. The treatment included the discontinuation of the culprit drug and the administration of topical anti-glaucoma drops. The treatment course was followed with serial measurements of the IOP and refraction, and with performing UBM. Results Five hours after he received a single 0.5-mg oral cabergoline tablet, the patient suffered from acute secondary angle-closure glaucoma and myopic refractive error. UBM demonstrated both effusion of the ciliary body and an anterior rotation of the iris-ciliary body. IOP was reduced 8 h after cessation of the causative agent and administration of anti-glaucoma drops. Refractive errors returned to normal levels after 8 days. Conclusion Secondary acute angle-closure glaucoma has been reported to occur after the administration of some drugs. In this report, an attempt has been made to describe this adverse reaction after oral cabergoline intake.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/af/cop0002-0030.PMC3042015.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5010076", "abstract": "Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment outcomes of differentiated thyroid cancer in Saudi patients aged above 60 years. Materials and methods Comparative analysis was performed in 252 patients aged 46–60 years (Group A) and 118 patients aged above 60 years (Group B), who had thyroidectomy, radioactive iodine-131, and thyroid-stimulating hormone suppression therapy between July 2000 and December 2012. Different clinicopathological features, treatment, complications, disease-free survival, and overall survival rates were compared. Results Mean age of patients in Group A was 51.9 years (range: 46–60), and mean age of those in Group B was 68.6 years (range: 62–97). Group B patients had higher positive lymph nodes (43.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/b4/cia-11-1169.PMC5010076.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2948281", "abstract": "Insulator elements have long been associated with a proposed domain boundary function, ensuring appropriate associations between regulatory elements and transcription units through the physical organisation of the genome into looped domains. Recent experiments in Drosophila have, however, highlighted a more direct involvement of insulators in transcriptional regulation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/05/1757-594X-0001-0000000092.PMC2948281.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2730241", "abstract": "From February through May of 1999, 13 cases of Influenza A virus (FLUAV), type H1N1 were reported at a Department of Defense influenza surveillance sentinel site in Lima, Peru. Genetic and antigenic analysis by hemagglutination inhibition and direct nucleotide sequencing of the HA1 region of the hemagglutinin gene were performed on two isolates, A/Peru/1641/99 and A/Peru/1798/99. Both isolates were distinct from the Bayern/7/95-like viruses circulating in the Americas and closely related to a Beijing/262/95-like variant, A/New Caledonia/20/99. With the exception of travel-related cases, the detection of these isolates represents the first appearance of New Caledonia/20/99-like viruses in the Americas. Since the characterization of these Peru isolates, a number of New Caledonia/20/99-like viruses have been reported worldwide. For the 2000/01 and 2001/02 influenza seasons, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended the inclusion of A/New Caledonia/20/99 as the H1N1 vaccine component for both the southern and northern hemispheres.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f3/30/PMC2730241.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3341421", "abstract": "Background and Objectives The relationship between lipid profile and coronary plaque tissue characteristics in patients with stable angina pectoris (SAP) is unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between tissue characteristics and lipid profile and predictors of unstable plaques (UPs) in patients with SAP by virtual histology intravascular ultrasonography (VH-IVUS). Subjects and Methods VH-IVUS was performed for target lesions in patients with SAP (61.7±9.2 years, 174 males, n=266) at the time of coronary angiography. UPs are characterized by thin-cap fibroatheroma, ruptured plaque, or remaining thrombus with VH-IVUS. Results The present study showed that 34 SAP patients had UPs (61.6±9.2 years, 24 males, 12.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fd/38/kcj-42-246.PMC3341421.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1914257", "abstract": "Tetrameric motor proteins of the Kinesin-5 family are essential for eukaryotic cell division. The microscopic mechanism by which Eg5, the vertebrate Kinesin-5, drives bipolar mitotic spindle formation remains unknown. Here we show in optical trapping experiments that full-length Eg5 moves processively and stepwise along microtubule bundles. Interestingly, the force produced by individual Eg5 motors typically reached only ∼2 pN, one-third of the stall force of Kinesin-1. Eg5 typically detached from microtubules before stalling. This behavior may reflect a regulatory mechanism important for the role of Eg5 in the mitotic spindle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ea/47/PMC1914257.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3654119", "abstract": "A 27-year-old man with bacterial endocarditis of the mitral valve and embolic episodes was bound to have a large right coronary artery fistula communicating with the left ventricle, immediately inferior to the posterior mitral annulus. The perforation of the posterior leaflet and coronary arteriovenous fistula was identified using two-dimensional Doppler echocardiography. The diagnosis was confirmed by coronary angiography, and the patient underwent a successful operation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/17/kcj-43-281.PMC3654119.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4553318", "abstract": "Applications of the heptavalent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) in the pediatric immunization schedule have dramatically reduced the incidence of pneumococcal diseases in both vaccinated children and unvaccinated individuals of all ages. However, increased infections caused by non-PCV7 serotypes have been reported by several groups. To overcome this problem, new vaccines covering more serotypes including the emerging serotypes have been developed. The 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) currently covers the 7 PCV7 serotypes (4, 6B, 9V, 14, 18C, 19F, and 23F) and 6 additional serotypes 1, 3, 5, 6A, 7F, and 19A. After the first year of PCV13 applications in the immunization schedule in young children, global evaluation studies demonstrated that PCV13 provided a wider coverage and more effective prevention than PCV7 against invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPDs), mucosal pneumococcal diseases, and pneumococcal carriage. We reviewed the effects of PCV13 in the control of pneumococcal diseases in children based on previous studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ba/b5/PMC4553318.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2750142", "abstract": "Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) are primarily known as a complication in diabetic patients through their mediation of the inflammatory response. However, a variety of studies have demonstrated enhanced formation of AGEs in cardiovascular disorders. Despite the large number of AGEs produced during the Maillard reaction, recent focus is on the major non-crosslinking AGE Nε-carboxymethyllysine. Kneyber and colleagues focused on sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction and investigated whether myocardial inflammation is associated with enhanced cardiac AGE deposition and whether this is further enhanced by mechanical ventilation. They showed that both conditions are associated with enhanced AGE deposition and myocardial inflammation. Therefore, AGEs may participate in the inflammatory response related to cardiac dysfunction in critically ill patients. Moreover, life-saving ventilation stimulates AGE formation in these patients. This interesting study raises the question of whether AGEs in critically ill patients are a driving force of the disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a3/2d/PMC2750142.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4296948", "abstract": " Introduction Septum deviation in children may alter the early physiologic process of breathing, causing obligatory oral breathing and consequently changing craniofacial development and even intellect. Because of these consequences, septoplasty should be performed as early as possible.  Materials and Methods The retrospective study reviewed the results of septoplasty in 40 children under 12 years old who had follow-up after surgery for a maximum period of 7 years. The research was submitted to the ethics committee and approved with protocol number 10331912.0.0000.0058.  Results Forty patients underwent septoplasty, 39 (97.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ff/70/PMC4296948.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3781506", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE Haptoglobin (Hp) genotype (Hp 1-1, 1-2, or 2-2) is associated with risk for type 2 diabetes complications, but its relationship with cognitive compromise, a growing concern in type 2 diabetes, has rarely been studied. This study investigated whether Hp genotype is associated with cognitive function in cognitively normal elderly diabetic subjects. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Relationships of Hp genotype with episodic memory, semantic categorization, attention/working memory and executive function, and an overall cognitive score were examined in subjects from the Israel Diabetes and Cognitive Decline (IDCD) study. RESULTS In the present analysis, 812 subjects participated (84 with Hp 1-1, 335 with Hp 1-2, and 393 with Hp 2-2 genotypes). Average was 72.9 years of age (SD 4.7), and Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) was 28.0 (SD 1.8). Compared with subjects with Hp 1-2 genotype, Hp 1-1 subjects performed significantly worse in semantic categorization (F = 7.03; P = 0.008) and the overall cognitive score (F = 5.57; P = 0.02). A separate stepwise multiple regression analysis demonstrated that compared with subjects with Hp 2-2 genotype, Hp 1-1 subjects performed significantly worse in semantic categorization (F = 4.18; P = 0.04) and the overall cognitive score (F = 4.70; P = 0.03). The contribution of cardiovascular risk factors to cognition was significantly higher in subjects with Hp 1-1 genotype compared with Hp 2 carriers (Hp 1-2 and Hp 2-2) in the semantic categorization (P = 0.009) and attention/working memory (P = 0.002) cognitive domains. CONCLUSIONS Compared with Hp 2 carriers, those with Hp 1-1 genotype present lower cognitive performance. Stronger relationships between cardiovascular risk factors and cognition in the latter group may suggest an underlying vascular mechanism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f9/6a/3139.PMC3781506.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4967639", "abstract": "Systemic sclerosis or scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by excessive fibrosis and, vasculopathy, with multiorgan involvement. Anesthetic considerations in patients with systemic sclerosis must take into account the degree of organ dysfunction as well as airway management. Regional anesthesia is a preferable alternative to general anesthesia despite the reports of prolonged sensory block. Spinal anesthesia in patients with systemic sclerosis has been reported for only one patients undergoing cesarean section. Concurrent systemic sclerosis and pregnancy raise many obstetric and anesthetic considerations. We describe the case of a pregnant patient with systemic sclerosis who had a history of dyspnea and interstitial lung disease. The cesarean section was performed uneventfully under spinal anesthesia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/33/kjae-69-406.PMC4967639.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4599425", "abstract": "Background The striated muscle Z-line, a multiprotein complex at the boundary between sarcomeres, plays an integral role in maintaining striated muscle structure and function. Multiple Z-line-associated proteins have been identified and shown to play an increasingly important role in the pathogenesis of human cardiomyopathy. Cypher and its close homologue, Enigma homolog protein (ENH), are 2 Z-line proteins previously shown to be individually essential for maintenance of postnatal cardiac function and stability of the Z-line during muscle contraction, but dispensable for cardiac myofibrillogenesis and development. Methods and Results The current studies were designed to test whether Cypher and ENH play redundant roles during embryonic development. Here, we demonstrated that mice lacking both ENH and Cypher exhibited embryonic lethality and growth retardation. Lethality in double knockout embryos was associated with cardiac dilation and abnormal Z-line structure. In addition, when ENH was ablated in conjunction with selective ablation of either Cypher short isoforms (CypherS), or Cypher long isoforms (CypherL), only the latter resulted in embryonic lethality. Conclusions Cypher and ENH redundantly play an essential role in sustaining Z-line structure from the earliest stages of cardiac function, and are redundantly required to maintain normal embryonic heart function and embryonic viability.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/da/jah30004-e001950.PMC4599425.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4524900", "abstract": "All vaccines are developed to elicit an effective immune response in vaccinated animals such as innate, humoral and cell mediated response to protect animal health. Quality and intensity of the immune responses are differing by characteristics of the vaccine formulation and nature of the infectious agent. Modified live virus vaccines showed advantages over killed vaccines in terms of rapid immune response, duration of the immunity and better cell mediated protection mechanism. The porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is relatively newly emerging (1986 in United States, 1990 in Europe) viral pathogen in pigs and tremendous effort has been made to protect pigs from this economically devastating disease such as developing killed, modified live, recombinant protein based and DNA vaccines. However, only cell culture attenuated virus vaccine is practiced with arguably limited efficacy. The PRRSV vaccine did not clear virus from infected pigs nor prevent re-infection of the virus. The vaccine showed very limited innate immune response, low anamnestic immune response and negligible cell mediated immune response. Despite of the current developed scientific technology, there still remain many questions to solve a most important pig disease worldwide.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3a/7e/cevr-4-159.PMC4524900.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4363587", "abstract": "This study was conducted to investigate the effect of sodium arsenite and Acacia honey on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and electrolytes in the brain and serum of Wistar rats. Male Wistar albino rats in four groups of five rats each were treated with distilled water, sodium arsenite (5 mg/kg body weight), Acacia honey (20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/c6/PMC4363587.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4633565", "abstract": "Nifedipine is an antihypertensive BCS class II drug which has poor bioavailability when given orally. The objective of the present study was to increase the bioavailability of nifedipine, by formulation and evaluation of a buccoadhesive liquisolid system using magnesium aluminium silicate (Neusilin) as both carrier and coating material and dissolution media were selected based on the solubility studies. A mixture of carboxymethylcellulose sodium and carbomer was used as mucoadhesive polymers. Buccoadhesive tablets were prepared by direct compression. FTIR studies confirmed no interaction between drug and excipients. XRD studies indicated change/reduction in crystallinity of drug. The powder characteristics were evaluated by different flow parameters to comply with pharmacopoeial specifications. The dissolution studies for liquisolid compacts and tablet formulations were carried out and it was found that nifedipine liquisolid tablets formulated from bioadhesive polymers containing 49", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/74/8f/PMC4633565.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4526599", "abstract": "Introduction Renal cell carcinomas (RCC) are collectively the third most common type of genitourinary neoplasms, surpassed only by prostate and bladder cancer. Cure rates for renal cell carcinoma are related to tumor grade and stage; therefore, diagnostic methods for early detection and new therapeutic modalities are of paramount importance. Epigenetics can be defined as inherited modifications in gene expression that are not encoded in the DNA sequence itself. Epigenetics may play an important role in the pursuit of early diagnosis, accurate prognostication and identification of new therapeutic targets. Material and methods We used PubMed to conduct a comprehensive search of the English medical literature using search terms including epigenetics, DNA methylation, histone modification, microRNA regulation (miRNA) and RCC. In this review, we discuss the potential application of epigenetics in the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of kidney cancer. Results During the last decade, many different types of epigenetic alterations of DNA have been found to be associated with malignant renal tumors. This has led to the research of the diagnostic and prognostic implications of these changes in renal malignancies as well as to the development of novel drugs to target these changes, with the aim of achieving a survival benefit. Conclusions Epigenetics has become a promising field in cancer research. The potential to achieve early detection and accurate prognostication in kidney cancer might be feasible through the application of epigenetics. The possibility to reverse these epigenetic changes with new therapeutic agents motivates researchers to continue pursuing better treatment options for kidney cancer and other malignancies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/a4/CEJU-68-00453.PMC4526599.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4027713", "abstract": "Background: Dystonia is a hyperkinetic movement disorder defined by involuntary sustained muscle spasms and unusual postures. Etiologically, dystonic syndromes can be broadly divided into primary and secondary forms, dystonia-plus syndromes and heredodegenerative forms. In particular, diagnosis of secondary dystonic syndromes can be challenging in view of the variety of causes. Purpose: The purpose of this article is to highlight some clinical clues and syndromic associations as well as investigational findings which may be helpful in the approach to a patient with suspected secondary dystonia. Methods: We outline characteristic clinical and neuroimaging findings which may be directive in the diagnostic process of dystonia patients and facilitate making the correct diagnosis, thus allowing initiating the best treatment. Results: Secondary causes of dystonia include, among others, strategic brain lesions of various origins, metabolic disease, neurodegenerative conditions, and previous exposure to drugs or toxins. Presence of clinical signs including prominent oromandibular involvement, eye movement disorders, retinitis pigmentosa, deafness, peripheral neuropathy, parkinsonism or progressive dementia should alert the clinician to consider a secondary cause. Strategic lesions within the basal ganglia, but also within the brainstem, cerebellum or cortical areas may underlie dystonia and should thus be excluded. Conclusions: When thorough clinical examination reveals features atypical of primary dystonia, syndromic associations may help the clinician to narrow down the list of differential diagnosis. Directive investigations like neuroimaging may confirm the clinical suspicion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/ca/jmd-2-2-58-2.PMC4027713.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5029115", "abstract": "Despite progress in noninvasive imaging with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, conventional angiography still contributes to the diagnostic workup of oncologic and other diseases. Arteriography can reveal tumors not evident on cross-sectional imaging, in addition to defining aberrant or unexpected arterial supply to targeted lesions. This additional and potentially unanticipated information can alter management decisions during interventional procedures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/e9/JCIS-6-33.PMC5029115.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4526604", "abstract": "Introduction Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) still remains the most popular surgical treatment for patients with lower urinary tract symptoms. However, in some patients, the improvement of symptoms after TURP is insufficient. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of the resected prostate tissue weight (RPTW) on the improvement of symptoms (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), and voiding function after TURP. Material and methods The study included 89 men who had undergone TURP in our institution. IPSS, QoL, post–voiding residual urine volume (PVR) and Qmax were recorded before the operation and six months after TURP. The total prostate volume (TPV) and transition zone volume (TZV) were measured before the operation by transrectal ultrasound. The impact of RPTW, RPTW/TZV ratio, and RPTW/TPV ratio were analyzed according to the efficacy of TURP. Results The mean Qmax after TURP increased by 10.15 mL/s, IPSS decreased by 16.7 points, QoL increased by 3.57 points, and PVR decreased by 95.3 mL. According to Qmax, the treatment was effective in 74.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/60/CEJU-68-00507.PMC4526604.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4859373", "abstract": "Background In aortic stenosis (AS), symptoms and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction represent a later disease state, and objective parameters that identify incipient LV dysfunction are needed. We sought to determine prognostic utility of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV‐GLS) in patients with aortic valve area <1.3 cm2. Methods and Results Five‐hundred and thirty‐one patients between January 2007 and December 2008 with aortic valve area <1.3 cm2 (86", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1b/b2/JAH3-5-e002561.PMC4859373.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3335356", "abstract": "Portal annular pancreas (PAP) is a rare variant in which the uncinate process of the pancreas extends to the dorsal surface of the pancreas body and surrounds the portal vein or superior mesenteric vein. Upon pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), when the pancreas is cut at the neck, two cut surfaces are created. Thus, the cut surface of the pancreas becomes larger than usual and the dorsal cut surface is behind the portal vein, therefore pancreatic fistula after PD has been reported frequently. We planned subtotal stomach-preserving PD in a 45-year-old woman with underlying insulinoma of the pancreas head. When the pancreas head was dissected, the uncinate process was extended and fused to the dorsal surface of the pancreas body. Additional resection of the pancreas body 1 cm distal to the pancreas tail to the left side of the original resection line was performed. The new cut surface became one and pancreaticojejunostomy was performed as usual. No postoperative complications such as pancreatic fistula occurred. Additional resection of the pancreas body may be a standardized procedure in patients with PAP in cases of pancreas cut surface reconstruction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/c4/crg-0006-0131.PMC3335356.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3988625", "abstract": "Estimates of healthcare utilization during an influenza pandemic are needed in order to plan for the allocation of staff and resources. The aim of this study was to assess the number, age, and arrival time of patients with influenza-like-illness (ILI), and associations between their symptoms during the 2009–2010 H1N1 pandemic. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of electronic health records from the student health service (SHS) and an emergency department (ED) in Morgantown, West Virginia, between January 2009 and December 2010. During the 2009–2010 H1N1 pandemic, patient arrivals at SHS and ED varied over the week. SHS patients arrived early in the week and primarily in the afternoon. ED patient arrivals were more evenly distributed, with busier evenings and weekends. Those with fever were more likely to experience cough, sore throat, vomiting/nausea, chills, congestion, headache, and body-ache. These results can assist health professionals in preparing for an influenza pandemic.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/27/PMC3988625.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4723641", "abstract": "Purpose Pain flare is a temporary increase in pain and is a potential side effect of radiotherapy treatment. However, its incidence has been reported only in recent studies, and with great variability. A few studies have reported on the use of dexamethasone as a prophylactic agent in the prevention of pain flare. The objective of this study is to present a review of the available literature regarding the incidence of pain flare and use of dexamethasone as a preventative measure. Methods A literature search was conducted in PubMed using subject keywords including: “radiation therapy”, “stereotactic radiation therapy”, “bone metastases”, “pain flare”, and “dexamethasone”. The search was limited to English only but not restricted to any time period. Additionally, a search was also conducted in the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) 2014 book of published abstracts. Inclusion criteria were primary studies published with full text and/or abstracts only. Letters to the editor were excluded. Results A total of 11 studies were selected, two of which were abstracts published by ASTRO in 2014. Seven articles investigated pain flare and/or dexamethasone use for conventional external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) while the remaining four investigated stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Pain flare incidence ranged from 2 to 44", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4f/54/main.PMC4723641.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2494654", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE—The rising incidence of type 1 diabetes has been attributed to environment, implying a lesser role for genetic susceptibility. However, the rise could be accounted for by either more cases with classic high-risk genes or by cases with other risk genes. Separately, for any degree of genetic susceptibility, age at presentation may decrease in a permissive environment. To examine these possibilities, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II DRB1 genes known to confer risk for type 1 diabetes were analyzed in relation to year of birth and age at diagnosis over the last five decades. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Caucasoid subjects (n = 462) diagnosed with type 1 diabetes before age 18 between 1950 and 2005 were DRB1 genotyped. RESULTS—Mean ± SD age at diagnosis, 8.5 ± 4.5 years, did not differ across decades. Recent diagnosis was associated with a lower proportion but unchanged incidence of the highest-risk DRB1 genotype DR3,4 (2000–2005, 28", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/9b/1546.PMC2494654.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2688091", "abstract": "The article by Eslami and colleagues provides an overview of the indicators used to measure the quality of blood glucose control in patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Each indicator can be related to one or more of the following categories: blood glucose zones, blood glucose levels, time intervals, and features of the insulin titration algorithm. Some important issues (for instance those concerning the clarity of definitions used for glycaemic thresholds) are raised. This systematic review calls for a practical guide to advise the clinician how different blood glucose signals should (ideally) be evaluated and which steps should to be undertaken.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e4/c0/PMC2688091.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2526487", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to identify factors that predict morbidity and mortality in patients with traumatic pancreatic injuries. A retrospective review was performed on 75 consecutive patients with traumatic pancreatic injuries admitted to the Emergency Medical Center at Masan Samsung Hospital and subsequently underwent laparotomy during the period January 2000 to December 2005. Overall mortality and morbidity rates were 13.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/ca/jkms-23-126.PMC2526487.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3321560", "abstract": " Introduction. Normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism (NPHPT) is considered a variant of the more frequent form of the disease characterized by normal serum calcium levels with high PTH. The higher prevalence of renal stones in patients with HPTP and the well established association with bone disorders show the importance of studies on how to manage asymptomatic patients. Objective. To compare the clinical and laboratory data between the normocalcemic and mild hypercalcemic forms of PHPT. Methods. We retrospectively evaluated 70 patients with PHPT, 33 normocalcemic and 37 mild hypercalcemic. Results. The frequency of nephrolithiasis was 18.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7e/0b/PMC3321560.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3949414", "abstract": "Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE) is a distinct pattern of pulmonary fibrosis which often runs a rapidly progressive course with a poor prognosis, and it is likely to be introduced as a separate entity in the new classification scheme of idiopathic interstitial pneumonias. It is characterised by pleural fibrosis and subpleural fibroelastosis, with an upper lobe predominance. In addition to cases following lung and bone marrow transplantation, familial and idiopathic cases have been described. The literature on PPFE is fragmented, however, and primarily consists of small case series, lacking a uniform methodology of clinical, radiological and histopathological description. In this review article, most previously published reports of PPFE in the English-language literature will be discussed and the salient clinical and histopathological data analysed to arrive at a working definition of PPFE in daily histopathological practice, and to aid the generation of a unifying hypothesis regarding its potential aetiologies and pathogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a9/9e/CRMR-9-238.PMC3949414.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5424800", "abstract": "Phosphorylation is a common post-translational modification that plays important roles in a wide range of biochemical and cellular processes. Many enzymes and receptors can be switched “on” or “off” by conformational changes induced by phosphorylation. The phosphorylation process is mediated by a family of enzymes called kinase. Currently, more than 1,000 different kinases have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana proteome. Kinases interact with each other and with many regulatory proteins forming phosphorylation networks. These phosphorylation networks modulate the signaling processes and control the functions of cells. Normally, kinases phosphorylate serines, threonines, and tyrosines. However, in many proteins, not all of these 3 types of amino acids can be phosphorylated. Therefore, identifying the phosphorylation sites and the possible phosphorylation events is very important in decoding the processes of regulation and the function of phosphorylation networks. In this study, we applied computational and bioinformatics tools to characterize the association between phosphorylation events and structural properties of corresponding proteins by analyzing more than 50 trans-membrane proteins from Arabidopsis thaliana. In addition to the previously established conclusion that phosphorylation sites are closely associated with intrinsic disorder, we found that the phosphorylation process may also be affected by solvent accessibility of phosphorylation sites and further promoted by neighboring modification events.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/9c/kidp-01-01-10925713.PMC5424800.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5072264", "abstract": "Objective: The aim of this study was to help people comprehensively understand the research advances related to ring finger protein 213 (RNF213) in moyamoya disease (MMD) and to understand the disease at the molecular level to provide a new perspective of the diagnosis of the disease. Data Sources: This review was based on data in articles published between 2005 and 2015 that were retrieved from the PubMed database. The search terms included RNF213, MMD, intracranial major artery stenosis/occlusion (ICASO), genotype, phenotype, mutant and variants, and the combinations of these terms. Study Selection: Articles related to MMD and RNF213 were selected for review, and we also reviewed publications related to ICASO. Results: RNF213 is not only associated with MMD but also associated with intracranial major artery stenosis. In addition, RNF213 variants exhibit apparent ethnic diversity; specifically, the c.14576G>A variant is mainly detected in Korean, Chinese, and Japanese populations, particularly the latter population. The genotypes of RNF213 correlate with the phenotypes of MMD; for example, the homozygous c.14576G>A variant is associated with early-onset, severe symptoms, and an unfavorable prognosis. Furthermore, the RNF213 c.14576G>A variant should be considered during the diagnosis of MMD because no patients with quasi-MMD have been reported to carry the RNF213 c.14576G>A variant whereas 66 of 78 patients with definite MMD have been found to carry this variant. Conclusions: The growing literature demonstrates that MMD is primarily caused by the synergy of genetic and environmental factors, and unknown genetic modifiers might play roles in the etiology of MMD. Further research should be conducted to clarify the pathogenic mechanism of MMD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/28/7d/CMJ-129-2497.PMC5072264.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4162656", "abstract": "Purpose Unresectable chest wall recurrences of breast cancer (CWR) in heavily pretreated patients are especially difficult to treat. We hypothesised that thermally enhanced drug delivery using low temperature liposomal doxorubicin (LTLD), given with mild local hyperthermia (MLHT), will be safe and effective in this population. Patients and methods This paper combines the results of two similarly designed phase I trials. Eligible CWR patients had progressed on the chest wall after prior hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Patients were to get six cycles of LTLD every 21–35 days, followed immediately by chest wall MLHT for 1 hour at 40–42 °C. In the first trial 18 subjects received LTLD at 20, 30, or 40 mg/m2; in the second trial, 11 subjects received LTLD at 40 or 50 mg/m2. Results The median age of all 29 patients enrolled was 57 years. Thirteen patients (45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/cb/HTH-30-285.PMC4162656.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3899632", "abstract": "Purpose To describe the efficacy of episcleral brachytherapy in a choroidal melanoma and circumscribed hemangioma arising in both eyes of the same patient. Case report We present the case of a 47 year old man who presented decreased visual acuity a few months preceding initial consult. On fundoscopy, he presented a melanotic lesion in the right eye, and a red-orange choroidal mass in the macular area of the left eye. Material and methods B scan-ultrasound, fluorescein, and indocyanine green angiography, confirmed the diagnosis of choroidal melanoma in the right eye, and circumscribed choroidal hemangioma in the left eye. Episcleral brachytherapy with 125I was performed in both eyes consecutively. Results and Conclusions Bilateral episcleral brachytherapy successfully treated both tumors, preserving the eyes and useful visual function.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/04/JCB-5-21638.PMC3899632.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3420094", "abstract": "Dietary intake of foods rich in antioxidant properties is suggested to be cancer protective. Foods rich in antioxidant properties include grape (Vitis vinifera), one of the world's largest fruit crops and most commonly consumed fruits in the world. The composition and cancer-protective effects of major phenolic antioxidants in grape skin and seed extracts are discussed in this review. Grape skin and seed extracts exert strong free radical scavenging and chelating activities and inhibit lipid oxidation in various food and cell models in vitro. The use of grape antioxidants are promising against a broad range of cancer cells by targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its downstream pathways, inhibiting over-expression of COX-2 and prostaglandin E2 receptors, or modifying estrogen receptor pathways, resulting in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Interestingly, some of these activities were also demonstrated in animal models. However, in vivo studies have demonstrated inconsistent antioxidant efficacy. Nonetheless, a growing body of evidence from human clinical trials has demonstrated that consumption of grape, wine and grape juice exerts many health-promoting and possible anti-cancer effects. Thus, grape skin and seed extracts have great potential in cancer prevention and further investigation into this exciting field is warranted.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9c/79/PMC3420094.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3013696", "abstract": "The Phospho.ELM resource (http://phospho.elm.eu.org) is a relational database designed to store in vivo and in vitro phosphorylation data extracted from the scientific literature and phosphoproteomic analyses. The resource has been actively developed for more than 7 years and currently comprises 42 574 serine, threonine and tyrosine non-redundant phosphorylation sites. Several new features have been implemented, such as structural disorder/order and accessibility information and a conservation score. Additionally, the conservation of the phosphosites can now be visualized directly on the multiple sequence alignment used for the score calculation. Finally, special emphasis has been put on linking to external resources such as interaction networks and other databases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4c/74/gkq1104.PMC3013696.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3741567", "abstract": "This study describes a new record of a thelotremoid lichen (Leucodecton desquamescens) from South Korea. The taxon is characterized by thick, bulging thallus with many calcium oxalate crystal inclusions; an immersed, round to irregular ascomata with free exciple, ellipsoid to ± roundish submuriform, brown ascospores, and lack of secondary metabolites. A detailed taxonomic description and comments are presented for this taxon. The lichen genus Leucodecton is reported for the first time in South Korea.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/7c/mb-38-149.PMC3741567.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3877632", "abstract": "There is growing evidence of a positive correlation between asthma and obesity in children and adults. Leptin and adiponectin regulate several metabolic and inflammatory functions. This study aims to evaluate serum leptin and adiponectin concentrations in asthmatic school children to investigate their association with obesity and the degree of asthma control. Obese asthmatic (OA) and nonobese asthmatic (NOA) children, aged 7 to 14, were randomly enrolled in this prospective study. Data on demographic, anthropometric, serum lipids, and spirometric measures and allergy status were collected and analyzed. Serum leptin was significantly higher (25.8 ± 11.1 versus 8.7 ± 11.1; P < 0.0001) and adiponectin levels were lower (2.5 ± 1.2 versus 5.4 ± 2.9; P < 0.0001) in OA compared to NOA children. The uncontrolled group had higher leptin and lower adiponectin levels compared to well and partially controlled asthma. BMI was positively correlated with leptin (r = 0.79; P < 0.001) and negatively with adiponectin (r = −0.73; P < 0.001). Mean BMI and leptin levels were observed to be higher in girls compared to boys. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that higher BMI and female gender had significant effect on serum leptin levels. Among asthmatic children higher serum leptin and lower adiponectin levels were significantly associated with obesity and showed no significant association with degree of asthma controls.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/29/PMC3877632.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3238479", "abstract": "Bacteremia following febrile neutropenia is a serious complication in children with malignancies. Preventive measures are currently targeted at antimicrobial prophylaxis, amelioration of drug-induced neutropenia, and nosocomial spread of pathogens, with little attention to community-acquired infections. A retrospective study was conducted at a pediatric oncology center during a 3-year period to identify probable cases of food-borne infections with bacteremia. Twenty-one bacteremic illnesses affecting 15 children receiving chemotherapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were reviewed. Three (14", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b2/a8/PMC3238479.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4443387", "abstract": "Background: Acute cholecystitis is the most common complication of gallbladder stones. Today, Tokyo guidelines criteria are recommended for diagnosis, grading, and management of acute cholecystitis. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) at different cut-off values to predict the severity of the disease and its possible role in grading the disease with regard to the guideline. Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective study, analyzing 682 cases out of consecutive 892 patients with acute cholecystitis admitted to two different general surgery clinics in Istanbul, Turkey. Records of patients diagnosed with acute cholecystitis were screened retrospectively from the hospital computer database between January 2011 and July 2014. A total of 210 patients with concomitant diseases causing high CRP levels were excluded from the study. The criteria of Tokyo guidelines were used in grading the severity of acute cholecystitis, and patients were divided into 3 groups. CRP values at the time of admission were analyzed and compared among the groups. Results: Mean CRP levels of groups were found to be significantly different, 18.96 mg/L in Group I, 133.51 mg/L in Group II, and 237.23 mg/L in Group III (P < 0.001). Having examined CRP values among the groups, they were found to be highly and significantly correlated with the disease grade (P < 0.0001). After evaluating CRP levels according to the grade of the disease, group 2 was distinguished from group 1 with a cut-off CRP level of 70.65 mg/L, and from group 3 with a value of 198.95 mg/L. Those results were found to be statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusions: CRP, a well-known acute phase reactant that increases rapidly in various inflammatory processes, can be accepted as a strong predictor in classifying different grades of the disease, and treatment can be reliably planned according to this classification.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7e/2b/ircmj-17-04-28091.PMC4443387.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3245602", "abstract": "Background: Primary hyperaparathyroidism (pHPT) is often accompanied by underlying thyroid pathology that can confound preoperative parathyroid localization studies and complicate intra-operative decision making. The aim of this study was to examine the utility of preoperative thyroid ultrasonography (US) in patients prior to undergoing parathyroidectomy for pHPT. Methods: An Institutional Review Board approved prospective study was undertaken from January 2005 through July 2008. All patients with pHPT meeting inclusion criteria (n=94) underwent preoperative thyroid ultrasound in addition to standard 99mTc-sestamibi scintigraphy for parathyroid localization. Demographics, operative management and final pathology were examined in all cases. Results: Fifty-four of the 94 patients (57", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/20/jcav03p0001.PMC3245602.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4055126", "abstract": "Radiation therapy is one of the standard therapeutic modalities for esophageal cancer, achieving its main antitumor efficacy through DNA damage. However, accumulating evidence shows that radiotherapy can substantially alter the tumor microenvironment, particularly with respect to its effects on immune cells. We hypothesized that the immune response elicited by radiotherapy may be as important as the radiation itself for successful treatment. More specifically, immunomodulatory cytokines may enhance the effectiveness of radiotherapy. To investigate this hypothesis, we measured changes in the serum interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) concentrations during radiotherapy and compared these modifications with outcomes. We found that serum concentrations of IL-2 and IFN-γ were positively associated with local response to radiotherapy in esophageal cancer. More generally, the intensity of the radiotherapy-elicited immune response was positively associated with local response to radiotherapy in esophageal cancer. Changes in serum IL-2 and IFN-γ concentrations were further associated with increased risks of acute hematologic toxicity and acute organ toxicity of the esophagus, lung, and skin. These results suggest that deciphering the mechanisms of radiotherapy-elicited immune response may help in the development of therapeutic interventions that would enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy and convert some ineffective responses to effective responses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cf/95/PMC4055126.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3542380", "abstract": "Various energy devices had been used in thyroid surgery. Aim of study is to develop canine model for recurrent laryngeal nerve injury by harmonic scalpel and to evaluate feasibility of using this model for evaluating the safety use of harmonic scalpel during thyroid surgery. Nine dogs were divided into 3 groups according to distance between harmonic scalpel application and recurrent laryngeal nerve; group 1 (1 mm), 2 (2 mm), and 3 (3 mm). Vocal cord function was assessed pre- and postoperatively using video laryngoscopy. Harmonic scalpel was applied adjacent to left recurrent laryngeal nerve and, two weeks later, right recurrent laryngeal nerve at assigned distances. Recurrent laryngeal nerves were evaluated for subacute and acute morphologic changes. Laryngoscopy demonstrated 3 abnormal vocal cords in group 1, 1 in group 2, and no in group 3 (P=0.020). Subacute histologic changes were observed in nerves with abnormal function. Acute histologic changes were observed 5/8 (62.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e8/16/lar-28-223.PMC3542380.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4863302", "abstract": "Amphotericin and curcumin are known to form complexes with albumins individually. In-silico analysis shows that amphotericin B and curcumin have separate binding regions on human serum albumin and bovine serum albumin. The complex formed with albumin in the presence of both amphotericin and curcumin is water soluble, and it retains antifungal activity. Interestingly, it was found that the presence of curcumin in the complex significantly delayed the red cell lysis by amphotericin B, indicating the possibility of moderating the toxic side effects of the drug using curcumin. Furthermore, since the presumed ternary complex is stable and water soluble, its potential use in the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis (kala azar) and systemic fungal infections needs to be evaluated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d4/14/PMC4863302.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4015253", "abstract": "Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, represents an endemic among Latin America countries. The participation of free radicals, especially nitric oxide (NO), has been demonstrated in the pathophysiology of seropositive individuals with T. cruzi. In Chagas disease, increased NO contributes to the development of cardiomyopathy and megacolon. Metallothioneins (MTs) are efficient free radicals scavengers of NO in vitro and in vivo. Here, we developed a murine model of the chronic phase of Chagas disease using endemic T. cruzi RyCH1 in BALB/c mice, which were divided into four groups: infected non-treated (Inf), infected N-monomethyl-L-arginine treated (Inf L-NAME), non-infected L-NAME treated and non-infected vehicle-treated. We determined blood parasitaemia and NO levels, the extent of parasite nests in tissues and liver MT-I expression levels. It was observed that NO levels were increasing in Inf mice in a time-dependent manner. Inf L-NAME mice had fewer T. cruzi nests in cardiac and skeletal muscle with decreased blood NO levels at day 135 post infection. This affect was negatively correlated with an increase of MT-I expression (r = -0.8462, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, we determined that in Chagas disease, an unknown inhibitory mechanism reduces MT-I expression, allowing augmented NO levels.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c4/cf/0074-0276-mioc-109-02-00174.PMC4015253.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4930255", "abstract": "Introduction HTLV-I Associated Myelopathy/Tropical Spastic Paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is a progressive Myelopathy that mainly involves the corticospinal tract. Despite pronounced involvement of the lower limbs, patients also have abnormalities in their upper limbs. So, we studied somatosensory-evoked potentials (SSEPs) of the median nerve in HAM/TSP patients to determine the extent of the involvement of the pathway of the central nervous system, especially the cervical spinal cord. Methods In this cross sectional study, 48 patients with HAM/TSP who were referred to Qaem Hospital in Mashhad from October 2010 to October 2011 were evaluated for various indices, including SSEPs of the median nerve for N9, N11, N13, and N20 waveforms and also N11–13 and N13–20 Inter Peak Latency (IPL), severity of disease (based on Osama criteria), disease duration (less or more than 2 years), age, and gender. SPSS software was used for data analysis. The t-test was used for quantitative data, and the chi-squared test was used for the qualitative variables. Results Thirty-four patients (70.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1e/88/epj-08-2361.PMC4930255.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4590933", "abstract": "Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disorder invariably affecting the lungs. It is a disease with noteworthy variations in clinical manifestation and disease outcome and has been described as an “immune paradox” with peripheral anergy despite exaggerated inflammation at disease sites. Despite extensive research, sarcoidosis remains a disease with undetermined aetiology. Current evidence supports the notion that the immune response in sarcoidosis is driven by a putative antigen in a genetically susceptible individual. Unfortunately, there currently exists no reliable biomarker to delineate the disease severity and prognosis. As such, the diagnosis of sarcoidosis remains a vexing clinical challenge. In this review, we outline the immunological features of sarcoidosis, discuss the evidence for and against various candidate etiological agents (infective and noninfective), describe the exhaled breath condensate, a novel method of identifying immunological biomarkers, and suggest other possible immunological biomarkers to better characterise the immunopathogenesis of sarcoidosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/59/5b/PMC4590933.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649275", "abstract": "We experienced a strange case of ingrown toenail, which had developed as a huge mass and enveloped the nail of the left first toe. The patient had self-treated his ingrown toenail for a period of one year with an ointment available over the counter. However, the granulation tissue on both sides of the nail had increased gradually and advanced over the nail plate in the medial direction. Finally, the granulation tissue on both sides had adhered to the nail and epithelial cells advanced over the granulation tissue completely. During surgery, the epithelized granulation tissue was excised at the bilateral terminal base point, and the posterior nail fold and the nail matrix were cauterized completely with phenol. Eighteen months after the operation there was no recurrence of the ingrown toenail.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/06/72/PMC3649275.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3321291", "abstract": " Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a nematode parasite that causes eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in humans. Disease presents following the ingestion of third-stage larvae residing in the intermediate mollusk host and disease manifests as an acute inflammation of the meninges characterized by eosinophil infiltrates which release a battery of proinflammatory and cytotoxic agents in response to the pathogen. As a mechanism of neutralizing these host defenses, A. cantonensis expresses different molecules with immunomodulatory properties that are excreted or secreted (ES). In this paper we discuss the role of ES proteins on disease exacerbation and their potential use as therapeutic targets.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cf/7b/PMC3321291.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4295595", "abstract": "Skeletal muscle inflammation and atrophy are closely associated with metabolic impairment such as insulin resistance. Quercetin, a natural polyphenol flavonoid, is known to elicit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. In this study, we investigated its effect on obesity-induced skeletal muscle inflammation and atrophy in mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were fed a regular diet, a high-fat diet (HFD), and an HFD supplemented with quercetin for nine weeks. Quercetin reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines and macrophage accumulation in the skeletal muscle of the HFD-fed obese mice. It also reduced transcript and protein levels of the specific atrophic factors, Atrogin-1 and MuRF1, in the skeletal muscle of the HFD-fed obese mice, and protected against the reduction of muscle mass and muscle fiber size. In vitro, quercetin markedly diminished transcript levels of inflammatory receptors and activation of their signaling molecules (ERK, p38 MAPK, and NF-κB) in cocultured myotubes/macrophages, and this was accompanied by reduced expression of the atrophic factors. Together, these findings suggest that quercetin reduces obesity-induced skeletal muscle atrophy by inhibiting inflammatory receptors and their signaling pathway. Quercetin may be useful for preventing obesity-induced muscle inflammation and sarcopenia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/52/PMC4295595.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5011522", "abstract": " Background. The ABCD2 score is now identified as a useful clinical prediction rule to determine the risk for stroke in the days following brain ischemic attacks. Aim. The present study aimed to introduce a new scoring system named “ABCD2F” and compare its value with the previous ABCD2 system to predict recurrent ischemic stroke within 90 days of the initial cerebrovascular accident (CVA). Methods. 138 consecutive patients with the final diagnosis of ischemic CVA or TIAs who referred to emergency ward of Rasoul-e-Akram general hospital in Tehran from September 2012 to December 2013 were eligible. By adding a new score in the presence of atrial fibrillation to ABCD2 system, the new scoring system as ABCD2F was introduced and the risk stratification was done again on this new system. Results. The area under the curve for ABCD2 was 0.434 and for ABCD2F it was 0.452 indicating low value of both systems for assessing recurrence of stroke within 90 days of primary event. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that none of the baseline factors could predict 90-day recurrent stroke. Conclusion. ABCD2 and/or atrial fibrillation are not good scoring candidates for assessing the risk of recurrent stroke within first 90 days.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/06/bb/PMC5011522.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4620195", "abstract": "Objective(s): Growing evidence indicates that extract of Ginkgo biloba (EGb) attenuates hippocampal-dependent memory deficit in aged individuals; however, very little is known about the effect of EGb on the structure of hippocampus. Therefore we examined the EGb-induced morphological changes of the Cornu Ammonis (CA) region in aged rats. Materials and Methods: Sixteen aged male Wistar rats, 24 months old, were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. Experimental group was orally administered EGb (100 mg/kg/d for 8 weeks), and the control group received a similar volume of water. The volume estimation of CA hippocampal field was done by Cavalieri principle and a quantitative Golgi study was also used for analysis of dendritic arborizations of CA3 and CA1 pyramidal cells. Results: Results revealed that EGb-treated aged rats had greater volumes than control animals in the layers of pyramidal and radiatum lacunosum moleculare in both CA3 and CA1 subfields. The neurons of CA3 and CA1 in experimental rats had more dendritic segments and larger total dendritic length compared to the control. The results also showed that the aged rats treated by EGb had more numerical branching density in the apical dendrites of CA3 and CA1 pyramidal cells. Conclusion: The results of the present study show that long-term administration of EGb could produce morphometrical changes in hippocampal pyramidal cells in aged rats. Results also provide a neuroanatomical basis for memory improvement due to chronic treatment with EGb.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4a/e3/IJBMS-18-932.PMC4620195.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4283099", "abstract": "Background and Objectives: Laparoscopic preperitoneal hernia repair with mesh has been reported to result in improved patient outcomes. However, there are few published data on the use of a totally extraperitoneal (TEP) approach. The purpose of this study was to present our experience and evaluate early outcomes of TEP inguinal hernia repair with self-adhesive mesh. Methods: This cohort study was a retrospective review of patients who underwent laparoscopic TEP inguinal hernial repair from April 4, 2010, through July 22, 2014. Data assessed were age, sex, body mass index (BMI), hernia repair indications, hernia type, pain, paresthesia, occurrence (bilateral or unilateral), recurrence, and patient satisfaction. Descriptive and regression analyses were performed. Results: Six hundred forty patients underwent laparoscopic preperitoneal hernia surgery with self-adhesive mesh. The average age was 56 years, nearly all were men (95.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/ca/e2014.00229.PMC4283099.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4258914", "abstract": " Purpose. To verify access barriers patients with retinal detachment face to arrive at a reference center and to evaluate patients' knowledge about the disease. Methods. Transversal study that applied a questioner to 65 patients of the Clinical Hospital of the University of Sao Paulo with retinal detachment between February and August of 2010. Results. Reasons for not performing the surgery in other services were as follows: 47", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c3/53/PMC4258914.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4220514", "abstract": "Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is placing an increasing burden on patients and societies because no decisive therapy has been established. Tubulointerstitial lesions accompanied by fibrosis, inflammatory cells, and capillary rarefaction not only characterize, but also aggravate renal dysfunction in CKD. In this setting, renal cells, particularly tubular cells, suffer from hypoxia caused by the imbalance of blood perfusion and oxygen demand despite their adaptive responses represented by upregulation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). Fibrosis is a pathological state characterized by excess extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, which is also a hallmark and causative factor of many chronic diseases including CKD. Recent studies have suggested that the dominant origin of ECM-producing myofibroblasts (MFs) may be pericytes, which are indispensable cells for maintaining proper capillary functions, as they wrap capillaries and stabilize them through a fine-tuned interplay with endothelial cells. During fibrosis, pericytes are activated and detach from capillaries before conversion into MFs, which compromises capillaries and worsens hypoxia. We also discuss how hypoxia and HIFs affect fibrogenesis. Given that hypoxia is caused by insufficient angiogenesis and that fibrosis results from pericyte loss, restoration of pericytes should be an intriguing target for overcoming both hypoxia and fibrosis. We propose the deactivation of MFs to recover lost pericytes as a promising therapy for CKD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0f/2a/PMC4220514.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5295808", "abstract": "Objectives The aim of this article was to identify the best predictors of distress suffered by family carers (FCs) of geriatric patients. Methods A cross-sectional study of 100 FC-geriatric patient dyads was conducted. The negative impact of care (NIoC) subscale of the COPE index was dichotomized to identify lower stress (score of ≤15 on the scale) and higher stress (score of ≥16 on the scale) exerted on FCs by the process of providing care. The set of explanatory variables comprised a wide range of sociodemographic and care-related attributes, including patient-related results from comprehensive geriatric assessments and disease profiles. The best combination of explanatory variables that provided the highest predictive power for distress among FCs in the multiple logistic regression (LR) model was determined according to statistical information criteria. The statistical robustness of the observed relationships and the discriminative power of the model were verified with the cross-validation method. Results The mean age of FCs was 57.2 (±10.6) years, whereas that of geriatric patients was 81.7 (±6.4) years. Despite the broad initial set of potential explanatory variables, only five predictors were jointly selected for the best statistical model. A higher level of distress was independently predicted by lower self-evaluation of health; worse self-appraisal of coping well as a caregiver; lower sense of general support; more hours of care per week; and the motor retardation of the cared-for person measured with the speed of the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Conclusion Worse performance on the TUG test was only the patient-related predictor of distress among the variables examined as contributors to the higher NIoC. Enhancing the mobility of geriatric patients through suitably tailored kinesitherapeutic methods during their hospital stay may mitigate the burden endured by FCs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/a1/cia-12-263.PMC5295808.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5376546", "abstract": "Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effect of storage time and temperature on dimensional stability of impressions made with Cavex Outline zinc oxide impression paste. Materials and Methods: A round stainless steel mold with five grooves (three horizontal and two vertical) was used in this in-vitro experimental study. Cavex Outline impression paste was prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions and applied to the mold. The mold was placed on a block and stored at 35°C and 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b6/63/PMC5376546.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2945196", "abstract": "Genes of prokaryotes and Archaea are often organized in cotranscribed groups, or operons. In contrast, eukaryotic genes are generally transcribed independently. Here we show that there is a substantial economic gain for the cell to cotranscribe genes encoding protein complexes because it synchronizes the fluctuations, or noise, in the levels of the different components. This correlation substantially reduces the shortfall in production of the complex. This benefit is relatively large in small cells such as bacterial cells, in which there are few mRNAs and proteins per cell, and is diminished in larger cells such as eukaryotic cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/10/11/PMC2945196.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4402994", "abstract": "Background: Thalassemia major is the most common hereditary anemia in Iran. Thalassemia major patients require lifelong care and suffer much pain during self-care. Knowledge of the nature, meaning, and impact of suffering from the perspective of patients is needed to determine which interventions are helpful. This study was designed to understand the experience of suffering in patients with thalassemia. Materials and Methods: This was a qualitative study conducted with content analysis method. In the present study, 21 patients with thalassemia were selected by purposive sampling. The research was performed at Kerman Samen Alhojaj Medical Center, Iran, in 2013. Data collection method was conducting unstructured interviews using open-ended questions and field notes. In addition, data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis and conventional approach. Results: Data analysis resulted in the emergence of the four central categories of physical exhaustion, mental and spiritual restlessness, society's behaviors and beliefs, and surviving a hard life, which were the suffering themes of the patients. Conclusions: Results showed that thalassemia in the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects is very stressful for patients. Moreover, culture plays an important role in the patients’ experience of suffering. Results of this study can help nurses improve nursing care to alleviate suffering based on these experiences.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/67/11/IJNMR-19-77.PMC4402994.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1915630", "abstract": "Jasmonic acid (JA) is a key hormone involved in plant defense responses. The effect of JA treatment of cabbage plants on their acceptability for oviposition by two species of cabbage white butterflies, Pieris rapae and P. brassicae, was investigated. Both butterfly species laid fewer eggs on leaves of JA-treated plants compared to control plants. We show that this is due to processes in the plant after JA treatment rather than an effect of JA itself. The oviposition preference for control plants is adaptive, as development time from larval hatch until pupation of P. rapae caterpillars was longer on JA-treated plants. Total glucosinolate content in leaf surface extracts was similar for control and treated plants; however, two of the five glucosinolates were present in lower amounts in leaf surface extracts of JA-treated plants. When the butterflies were offered a choice between the purified glucosinolate fraction isolated from leaf surface extracts of JA-treated plants and that from control plants, they did not discriminate. Changes in leaf surface glucosinolate profile, therefore, do not seem to explain the change in oviposition preference of the butterflies after JA treatment, suggesting that as yet unknown infochemicals are involved.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/cc/PMC1915630.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4099199", "abstract": "Background Abuse of older people is a serious issue and is associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality, and professionals will encounter elderly victims of abuse in all areas of the health care system. An important health determinant is behavioral factors, including coping style, which will impact on how older people manage stress and maintain control in their lives, and thereby protect themselves from abuse. The aim of this study was to explore the coping strategies elderly people abused by their offspring used to manage everyday life. Methods A qualitative approach was used and 14 elderly victims of abuse were interviewed. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and subjected to qualitative content analysis. Results Five main coping strategies were identified. The main strategy was linked to the role of parent. Another prominent strategy was attitude towards being victimized. Further strategies were associated with hope for a better relationship with offspring in the future, while others felt that they had done the best they could, or that their offspring were no longer their responsibility. The results are discussed in light of theoretical perspectives related to coping and resilience. Conclusion Abuse of older people by their offspring imposes severe stress on victims and challenges the values and beliefs about the caring nature of families. The findings of this study indicate that victims of abuse use a wide range of coping techniques to manage everyday life, and that some strategies help them to maintain their self-respect in their role as parents and find some sort of resilience.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/ec/jmdh-7-283.PMC4099199.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5085282", "abstract": "Introduction The preservative benzalkonium chloride (BAK) is used to preserve several topical, intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering glaucoma medications but can cause tolerability concerns that may lead to decreased adherence to treatment and ultimately diminish the effectiveness of IOP control. The study aimed to determine the efficacy and tolerability of BAK-free travoprost preserved with polyquaternium-1 in glaucoma patients switched from BAK-preserved latanoprost or bimatoprost. Methods This 12-week, open-label study was conducted in Europe between December 2011 and February 2013. We enrolled adult patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who were receiving BAK-preserved latanoprost 0.005", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b2/47/opth-10-2085.PMC5085282.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3559047", "abstract": "We retrospectively confirmed 2 cases of human Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection. Patient blood samples contained unique p44/msp2 for the pathogen, and antibodies bound to A. phagocytophilum antigens propagated in THP-1 rather than HL60 cells. Unless both cell lines are used for serodiagnosis of rickettsiosis-like infections, cases of human granulocytic anaplasmosis could go undetected.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a5/1c/PMC3559047.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4393839", "abstract": "Abstract Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare syndrome affecting multiple organs. There is no sufficient evidence regarding the clinical cardiac manifestations of TTP. Nonetheless, pathologic cardiac involvement is quite frequent in acute TTP, which is predominantly manifested as myocardial necrosis due to coronary arteriolar microthrombosis. The present case report describes a 43-year-old man with long-standing remitted TTP, who suffered from a sequence of refractory thrombotic epicardial coronary events. Aggressive medical and interventional therapies, including long-term dual antiplatelets and coronary angioplasty, were finally successful in remitting the thrombotic events. During his two-year follow up, he has been asymptomatic.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/07/40/PMC4393839.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4027696", "abstract": "Subdural hematoma is a rare cause of parkinsonism. We present the case of a 78-year-old man with right-side dominant parkinsonism about 3 months after a minor head injury. MRI reveals a chronic subdural hematoma on the left side with mildly displaced midline structures. The parkinsonian features were almost completely disappeared after neurosurgical evacuation of the hematoma without any anti-parkinson drug.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/58/jmd-2-1-43-11.PMC4027696.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4151872", "abstract": "The sequential search strategy is a prominent model of searcher behavior, derived as a rule by which females might sample and choose a mate from a distribution of prospective partners. The strategy involves a threshold criterion against which prospective mates are evaluated. The optimal threshold depends on the attributes of prospective mates, which are likely to vary across generations or within the lifetime of searchers due to stochastic environmental events. The extent of this variability and the cost to acquire information on the distribution of the quality of prospective mates determine whether a learned or environmentally canalized threshold is likely to be favored. In this paper, we determine conditions on cross-generational perturbations of the distribution of male phenotypes that allow for the evolutionary stability of an environmentally canalized threshold. In particular, we derive conditions under which there is a genetically determined threshold that is optimal over an evolutionary time scale in comparison to any other unlearned threshold. These considerations also reveal a simple algorithm by which the threshold could be learned.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/d4/PMC4151872.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4329956", "abstract": "Context: The occurrence of intradialytic hypotension (IDH) during hemodialysis (HD) continues to be a main problem in patients with ESRD (end-stage kidney disease). It also negatively affects health-related quality of life. We aimed to determine vasopressin effect in decreasing IDH. Evidence Acquisition: We reviewed clinical and experimental literature in a variety of sources, including PubMed, Current Content, Scopus, Embase, and Iranmedex regarding the possible effect of vasopressin administration in prevention of hypotension during HD to clarify its mechanism, efficacy, and safety. Results: Although arginine vasopressin is widely recognized for its anti-diuretic properties, it is also a well-recognized vasoconstrictor. It has been shown that the vasopressin release (as it would normally be expected) does not increase in the majority of HD patients with recurrent dialysis hypotension. In addition, it has also been reported that vasopressin secretion (due to the osmotic stimulation) is the most important mechanism in blood pressure control in ESRD patients receiving hypertonic solution for IDH. Therefore, it is suggested that vasopressin administration may improve hemodynamic stability among ESRD patients during HD. There are few clinical trials about this issue, suggesting that administration of exogenous vasopressin may be significantly associated with a decreased incidence of IDH as well as cardiovascular stability in ESRD patients in need of volume removal during HD. Conclusions: Vasopressin insufficiency may have an important role in the pathogenesis of hemodynamic instability during HD and administration of exogenous vasopressin is significantly associated with a lower incidence of IDH.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/47/18/ircmj-16-11-20219.PMC4329956.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4823413", "abstract": "Encountering a patient with unanticipated laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) during anesthetic induction is challenging for an anesthesiologist. Because routine history taking and pre-anesthetic evaluation cannot rule out the possibility of LTS, other measures should be taken. Perioperative airway maintenance is considered crucial for avoiding complications such as airway edema, bleeding, obstruction, collapse, and ultimately respiratory failure and arrest. We report an unanticipated tracheal stenosis discovered during anesthetic induction that hindered endotracheal intubation. Because airway maintenance was difficult, we postponed surgery until determining the cause of the difficult entry, considered possible therapeutic approaches (both anesthetic and surgical), and provided successful surgery with a continuous epidural block.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/f3/kjae-69-167.PMC4823413.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3152754", "abstract": "Anastomotic leakage is a very significant complication after posterior pelvic exenteration and a major cause of postoperative morbidity and mortality. We present a patient who underwent an optimal debulking surgery for an advanced stage ovarian cancer (FIGO IIIC). On postoperative day 12, transvaginal ultrasound revealed an anastomotic dehiscence following an unsuspicious computer tomography scan the day before. The patient was successfully managed by transanal vacuum therapy without re-laparotomy within a period of 4 weeks after diagnosis. We conclude that high-resolution transvaginal ultrasound is a crucial method in the management of complications after surgery and even allow diagnosing leakages of colorectal anastomosis. In selected cases characterized by a small leak size and a local peritonitis confined to the pelvis a transanal vacuum therapy may avoid both surgical re-intervention and creating a secondary diverting stoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/2a/jgo-22-131.PMC3152754.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4615220", "abstract": "Vaccination is historically one of the most important medical interventions for the prevention of infectious disease. Previously, vaccines were typically made of rather crude mixtures of inactivated or attenuated causative agents. However, over the last 10–20 years, several important technological and computational advances have enabled major progress in the discovery and design of potently immunogenic recombinant protein vaccine antigens. Here we discuss three key breakthrough approaches that have potentiated structural and computational vaccine design. Firstly, genomic sciences gave birth to the field of reverse vaccinology, which has enabled the rapid computational identification of potential vaccine antigens. Secondly, major advances in structural biology, experimental epitope mapping, and computational epitope prediction have yielded molecular insights into the immunogenic determinants defining protective antigens, enabling their rational optimization. Thirdly, and most recently, computational approaches have been used to convert this wealth of structural and immunological information into the design of improved vaccine antigens. This review aims to illustrate the growing power of combining sequencing, structural and computational approaches, and we discuss how this may drive the design of novel immunogens suitable for future vaccines urgently needed to increase the global prevention of infectious disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/80/02/PMC4615220.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4683618", "abstract": "Type 3 Gaucher disease (GD) manifests with hematologic, neurological and skeletal involvement including Erlenmeyer flask bone deformities, osteopenia, painful bone crises and fractures. We describe bilateral symmetric osteolytic lesions in a 23 year old with type 3 GD, chronically treated with enzyme replacement therapy. These atypical bone findings, previously reported in two similar patients with type 3 GD, expand our understanding of the evolving natural history of GD in the post-treatment era.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/c3/main.PMC4683618.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4364860", "abstract": "The Joint Committee on Diabetic Nephropathy has revised its Classification of Diabetic Nephropathy (Classification of Diabetic Nephropathy 2014) in line with the widespread use of key concepts, such as the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). In revising the Classification, the Committee carefully evaluated, as relevant to current revision, the report of a study conducted by the Research Group of Diabetic Nephropathy, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan. Major revisions to the Classification are summarized as follows: (i) eGFR is substituted for GFR in the Classification; (ii) the subdivisions A and B in stage 3 (overt nephropathy) have been reintegrated; (iii) stage 4 (kidney failure) has been redefined as a GFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2, regardless of the extent of albuminuria; and (iv) stress has been placed on the differential diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy versus non-diabetic kidney disease as being crucial in all stages of diabetic nephropathy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/81/80/jdi0006-0242.PMC4364860.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4602357", "abstract": "We report a case of a 30-year-old woman who experienced recurrent infections of the abdominal wall after travelling to Turkey from Germany to undergo abdominoplasty for aesthetic reasons. The patient's Mycobacterium fortuitum infection was successfully treated by surgery and antibiotic therapy. Surgical tourism—in this case, lipotourism—is resulting in an increasing number of patients in Europe who may present uncommon disease patterns.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/86/main.PMC4602357.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4028356", "abstract": "Caloric restriction (CR) is generally linked to lifespan extension in various organisms and may limit age-associated diseases. Processes through which caloric restriction promotes lifespan include obesity-countering weight loss, increased DNA repair, control of ribosomal and telomeric DNA repeats, mitochondrial regulation, activation of antioxidants, and protective autophagy. Several of these protective cellular processes are linked to the suppression of TOR (target of rapamycin) or the activation of sirtuins. In stark contrast, CR fails to extend or even shortens lifespan in certain settings. CR-dependent lifespan shortening is linked to weight loss in the non-obese, mitochondrial hyperactivity, genomic inflexibility, and several other processes. Deciphering the balance between positive and negative effects of CR is critical to understanding its ultimate impact on aging. This knowledge is especially needed in order to fulfil the promise of using CR or its mimetic drugs to counteract age-associated diseases and unhealthy aging.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/b3/nucl-5-56.PMC4028356.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4754572", "abstract": "Myiasis is a rare disease caused by infestation of tissue by larvae of flies. Oral myiasis is still “rare” and “unique” owing to the fact that oral cavity rarely provides the necessary habitat for a larval lifecycle. Herein, we present a case of extensive gingival myiasis in a 12-year-old mentally retarded, epileptic child as well as a literature review.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b8/05/PMC4754572.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3087146", "abstract": "Intrauterine growth restriction is a condition fetus does not reach its growth potential and associated with perinatal mobility and mortality. Intrauterine growth restriction is caused by placental insufficiency, which determines cardiovascular abnormalities in the fetus. This condition, moreover, should prompt intensive antenatal surveillance of the fetus as well as follow-up of infants that had intrauterine growth restriction as short and long-term sequele should be considered.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/47/37/PMC3087146.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3508658", "abstract": "Following the successful development of long-acting steroid-releasing vaginal ring devices for the treatment of menopausal symptoms and contraception, there is now considerable interest in applying similar devices to the controlled release of microbicides against HIV. In this review article, the vaginal ring concept is first considered within the wider context of the early advances in controlled-release technology, before describing the various types of ring device available today. The remainder of the article highlights the key developments in HIV microbicide-releasing vaginal rings, with a particular focus on the dapivirine ring that is presently in late-stage clinical testing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/9e/PMC3508658.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4191060", "abstract": "We have used noncontact atomic force microscopy (NC-AFM) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) to study the rutile TiO2(011) surface. A series of (2n × 1) reconstructions were observed, including two types of (4 × 1) reconstruction. High-resolution NC-AFM and STM images indicate that the (4 × 1)-α phase has the same structural elements as the more widely reported (2 × 1) reconstruction. An array of analogous higher-order (2n × 1) reconstructions were also observed where n = 3–5. On the other hand, the (4 × 1)-β reconstruction seems to be a unique structure without higher-order analogues. A model is proposed for this structure that is also based on the (2 × 1) reconstruction but with additional microfacets of 111 character.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/18/PMC4191060.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4585383", "abstract": "Background: Waiting time is an index assessing patient satisfaction, managerial effectiveness and horizontal equity in providing health care. Although heart surgery centers establishment is attractive for politicians. They are always faced with the question of to what extent they solve patient’s problems. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate factors influencing waiting time in patients of heart surgery centers, and to make recommendations for health-care policy-makers for reducing waiting time and increasing the quality of services from this perspective. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in 2013. After searching articles on PubMed, Elsevier, Google Scholar, Ovid, Magiran, IranMedex, and SID, a list of several criteria, which relate to waiting time, was provided. Afterwards, the data on waiting time were collected by a researcher-structured checklist from 156 hospitalized patients. The data were analyzed by SPSS 16. The Kolmogorov Smirnov and Shapiro tests were used for determination of normality. Due to the non-normal distribution, non-parametric tests, such as Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney were chosen for reporting significance. Parametric tests also used reporting medians. Results: Among the studied variables, just economic status had a significant relation with waiting time (P = 0.37). Fifty percent of participants had diabetes, whereas this estimate was 43.58", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e6/f7/ircmj-17-08-24851.PMC4585383.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5367512", "abstract": "Inequalities in society, culture, and finance have resulted in civil unrest, rioting, and intentional violence throughout our history. Nowhere is this currently more apparent than in the cities of Ferguson and Baltimore. It is not the civil unrest itself, but the resulting rioting and intentional violence that can create a disaster situation. This increases the care burden of health care providers during times when the governmental structure may be overwhelmed or functioning in a less than optimal manner. Beginning with the death of Michael Brown, civil unrest over the last 2 years has necessitated a closer examination of the role nurse leaders play in preparing their staff and facilities for potential results of this civil unrest. The similarities between the results of rioting and violence and natural disaster are obvious, but the differences are significant. Without adequate preparation, providers may not offer the appropriate response. Attention to the 10 “musts” for preparedness for civil unrest will facilitate a planning process and provide for a better response and recovery when communities face these issues.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/e1/nuraq-41-164.PMC5367512.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4255306", "abstract": "The American Joint Committee on Cancer/Union Internationale Contre le Cancer (AJCC/UICC) TNM staging system provides the most reliable guidelines for the routine prognostication and treatment of colorectal carcinoma. This traditional tumour staging summarizes data on tumour burden (T), the presence of cancer cells in draining and regional lymph nodes (N) and evidence for distant metastases (M). However, it is now recognized that the clinical outcome can vary significantly among patients within the same stage. The current classification provides limited prognostic information and does not predict response to therapy. Multiple ways to classify cancer and to distinguish different subtypes of colorectal cancer have been proposed, including morphology, cell origin, molecular pathways, mutation status and gene expression-based stratification. These parameters rely on tumour-cell characteristics. Extensive literature has investigated the host immune response against cancer and demonstrated the prognostic impact of the in situ immune cell infiltrate in tumours. A methodology named ‘Immunoscore’ has been defined to quantify the in situ immune infiltrate. In colorectal cancer, the Immunoscore may add to the significance of the current AJCC/UICC TNM classification, since it has been demonstrated to be a prognostic factor superior to the AJCC/UICC TNM classification. An international consortium has been initiated to validate and promote the Immunoscore in routine clinical settings. The results of this international consortium may result in the implementation of the Immunoscore as a new component for the classification of cancer, designated TNM-I (TNM-Immune). © 2013 The Authors. Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley     Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/a3/path0232-0199.PMC4255306.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5033563", "abstract": "The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently issued draft guidance on how it intends to regulate laboratory-developed tests, including genetic tests. This article argues that genetic tests differ from traditional targets of FDA regulation in both product as well as industry landscape, and that the FDA's traditional tools are ill-suited for regulating this space. While existing regulatory gaps do create risks in genetic testing, the regulatory burden of the FDA's proposal introduces new risks for both test providers and patients that may offset the benefits. Incremental expansion of current oversight outside of the FDA can mitigate many of the risks necessitating increased oversight while avoiding the creation of new ones that could undermine this industry.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/b5/lsv002.PMC5033563.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4917692", "abstract": " Objective. To assess the feasibility of a parent mentor model of intervention for early childhood obesity using positive deviance-based methods to inform the intervention. Methods. In this pilot, randomized clinical trial, parent-child dyads (age: 2–5) with children whose body mass index (BMI) was ≥95th percentile were randomized to parent mentor intervention or community health worker comparison. The child's height and weight were measured at baseline, after the six-month intervention, and six months after the intervention. Feasibility outcomes were recruitment, participation, and retention. The primary clinical outcome was BMI z-score change. Results. Sixty participants were enrolled, and forty-eight completed the six-month intervention. At baseline, the BMI z-score in the parent mentor group was 2.63 (SD = 0.65) and in the community health worker group it was 2.61 (SD = 0.89). For change in BMI z-score over time, there was no difference by randomization group at the end of the intervention: −0.02 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/78/5f/PMC4917692.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5102493", "abstract": "Background Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a ubiquitous opportunistic pathogen, is one of the main causative agents of human superficial infections. Infections due to these bacteria are difficult to heal and cause serious economic issues. Objectives The present study was carried out to investigate the antibiotic resistance pattern of P. aeruginosa isolated from cases of superficial infections referred to the emergency health care units of Iranian Hospitals. Materials and Methods Three hundred swab samples were collected from patients with superficial infections. Samples were cultured and those that were P. aeruginosa positive were analyzed by the disk diffusion method. Results One hundred and seventy-two out of 300 swab samples (57.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/39/b9/jjm-09-01-27646.PMC5102493.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2991183", "abstract": "In this study, bioactive glass (BG, 45S5) particles were added to a biodegradable magnesium alloy (ZK30) through a semi-solid high-pressure casting process in order to improve the surface biocompatibility of the biomaterial and potentially its bioactivity. The observation of the as-cast microstructures of ZK30-BG composites indicated homogeneous dispersion of BG particles in the matrix. SEM, EDX and EPMA showed the retention of the morphological characteristics and composition of BG particles in the as-cast composite materials. In vitro tests in a cell culture medium confirmed that the composites indeed possessed an enhanced ability to induce the deposition of a bone-like apatite layer on the surface, indicating an improved surface biocompatibility as compared with the matrix alloy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/de/2a/10856_2010_Article_4165.PMC2991183.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3132842", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tIntroduction. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in the intensive care unit (ICU) and associated with poor outcome. Plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a biomarker related to myocardial overload, and is elevated in some ICU patients. There is a high prevalence of both cardiac and renal dysfunction in ICU patients. Aims. To investigate whether plasma BNP levels in the first 48 hours were associated with AKI in ICU patients. Methods. We studied a cohort of 34 consecutive ICU patients. Primary outcome was presence of AKI on presentation, or during ICU stay. Results. For patients with AKI on presentation, BNP was statistically higher at 24 and 48 hours than No-AKI  patients (865 versus 148 pg/mL; 1380 versus 131 pg/mL). For patients developing AKI during 48 hours, BNP was statistically higher at 0, 24 and 48 hours than No-AKI  patients (510 versus 197 pg/mL; 552 versus 124 pg/mL; 949 versus 104 pg/mL). Conclusion. Critically ill patients with AKI on presentation or during ICU stay have higher levels of the cardiac biomarker BNP relative to No-AKI patients.  Elevated levels of plasma BNP may help identify patients with elevated risk of AKI in the ICU setting. The mechanism for this cardiorenal connection requires further investigation.  ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d3/24/PMC3132842.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3963216", "abstract": " Introduction. The goals of Healthy People US 2020 have called for increased screening and vaccination of high-risk groups for Hepatitis B (HBV). Methods. We performed a survey of 400 randomly chosen primary care practitioners (PCPs) in Wisconsin to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding screening and vaccination for HBV. Results. Screening rates of patients at risk of sexual transmission were low, with 61", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/30/PMC3963216.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4826704", "abstract": " Objective. The use of the axillary artery as an access site has lost favor in percutaneous intervention due to the success of these procedures from a radial or brachial alternative. However, these distal access points are unable to safely accommodate anything larger than a 7-French sheath. To date no studies exist describing the size of the axillary artery in relation to the common femoral artery in a patient population. We hypothesized that the axillary artery is of comparable size to the CFA in most patients and less frequently diseased. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 110 CT scans of the thoracic and abdominal aorta done at our institution to rule out aortic dissection in which the right axillary artery, right CFA, left axillary artery, and left CFA were visualized. Images were then reconstructed using commercially available TeraRecon software and comparative measurements made of the axillary and femoral arteries. Results. In 96 patients with complete data, the mean sizes of the right and left axillary artery were slightly smaller than the left and right CFA. A direct comparison of the sizes of the axillary artery and CFA in the same patient yielded a mean difference of 1.69 mm ± 1.74. In all patients combined, the mean difference between the axillary artery and CFA was 1.88 mm on the right and 1.68 mm on the left. In 19 patients (19.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/f0/PMC4826704.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2171619", "abstract": "A recent convergence of data indicating a relationship between cilia and proliferative diseases, such as polycystic kidney disease, has revived the long-standing enigma of the reciprocal regulatory relationship between cilia and the cell cycle. Multiple signaling pathways are localized to cilia in mammalian cells, and some proteins have been shown to act both in the cilium and in cell cycle regulation. Work from the unicellular alga Chlamydomonas is providing novel insights as to how cilia and the cell cycle are coordinately regulated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9b/fe/200503053.PMC2171619.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4529260", "abstract": "Background We conducted a retrospective cohort study to clinically and endoscopically assess the efficacy of delayed-release mesalazine for ulcerative colitis. Methods The study included 104 ulcerative colitis patients (52 men, 52 women) initiated on treatment with delayed-release mesalazine between 2009 and 2012. The clinical symptoms at months 0, 1, and 12 were scored using the clinical activity index. An endoscopic index was also used to determine disease activity in 72 patients who underwent total colonoscopy before and after mesalazine treatment. Results The clinical activity index at months 0, 1, and 12 were 4.6±2.8, 3.4±1.8, and 2.8±1.4, respectively, decreasing with time after the start of mesalazine treatment (P<0.001). The endoscopic index decreased significantly from 4.5±3.2 before to 3.1±2.8 after the start of delayed-release mesalazine treatment in the mean follow-up period of 1.0±0.4 years (P<0.001). Conclusion Delayed-release mesalazine was confirmed to be effective both clinically and endoscopically.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/0f/ceg-8-225.PMC4529260.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3854582", "abstract": "Degeneration of the intervertebral disk and its treatments are currently intensely investigated topics. Back pain is a condition whose chronic and debilitating nature combined with its prevalence make it a major health issue of substantial socioeconomic importance. Although researchers, and even sometimes clinicians, focus on the degenerated disk as the problem, to most patients, pain is the factor that limits their function and impacts their well-being. The purpose of this review is to delineate the changes associated with disk degeneration and to outline mechanisms by which they could be the source of back pain. Although the healthy disk is only innervated in the external layer of its annulus fibrosus, adjacent structures are plentiful with nociceptive receptors. Stimulation of such structures as a consequence of processes initiated by disk degeneration is explored. The concept of discogenic pain and possible mechanisms such as neoinnervation and solute transport are discussed. Finally, how such pain mechanisms may relate to current and proposed treatment strategies is discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/35/d5/PMC3854582.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3425036", "abstract": "Mad honey poisoning which is induced by Grayanotoxin (Andromedotoxin), is also known to have adverse effects in the cardiovascular system leading to different clinical entities. This toxin is produced by a member of the Rhododendron genus of plants of two R. Luteum and R. Panticum. In this article, we presented a case of slow ventricular response atrial fibrillation complaints with nausea, vomiting, dizziness and chest pain about an hour after eating honey produced in the Black Sea Region.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/54/JCDR-3-245.PMC3425036.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3732606", "abstract": " Cajanus cajan L, a member of the family Fabaceae, was identified from the Nigerian antimalarial ethnobotany as possessing antimalarial properties. The bioassay-guided fractionation of the crude methanol extract of C. cajan leaves was done in vitro using the multiresistant strain of Plasmodium falciparum (K1) in the parasite lactate dehydrogenase assay. Isolation of compound was achieved by a combination of chromatographic techniques, while the structure of the compound was elucidated by spectroscopy. This led to the identification of a cajachalcone, 2′,6′-dihydroxy-4-methoxy chalcone, as the biologically active constituent from the ethyl acetate fraction. Cajachalcone had an IC50 value of 2.0 μg/mL (7.4 μM) and could be a lead for anti-malarial drug discovery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7b/ca/PMC3732606.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2526510", "abstract": "The patient was a 44-yr-old man with end-stage renal disease who had developed chorea as a result of hypoglycemic injury to the basal ganglia and thalamus and who was subsequently diagnosed with depression and restless legs syndrome (RLS). For proper management, the presence of a complex medical condition including two contrasting diseases, chorea and RLS, had to be considered. Tramadol improved the pain and dysesthetic restlessness in his feet and legs, and this was gradually followed by improvements in his depressed mood, insomnia, lethargy, and feelings of hopelessness. This case suggests that the dopaminergic system participates intricately with the opioid, serotoninergic, and noradrenergic systems in the pathophysiology of RLS and pain and indirectly of depression and insomnia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/0b/jkms-23-533.PMC2526510.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4536001", "abstract": "Small RNAs play an important role in maintaining the genome reconstruction and stability in the plant. However, little is known regarding the role of small RNAs during the process of wide hybridisation and chromosome doubling. Therefore, the changes in the small RNAs were assessed during the formation of an allodiploid (genome: AB) and its allotetraploid (genome: AABB) between Brassica rapa (♀) and Brassica nigra (♂) in the present study. Here, the experimental methods described in details, RNA-seq data (available at Gene Expression Omnibus database under GSE61872) and analysis published by Ghani et al. [1]. The study showed that small RNAs play an important role in maintaining the genome stability, and regulate gene expression which induces the phenotype variation in the formation of an allotetraploid. This may play an important role in the occurrence of heterosis in the allotetraploid.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/bc/main.PMC4536001.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4068042", "abstract": "Studies of the relationship between sedentary behaviors and overweight among children and adolescents show mixed results. The fourth Thai National Health Examination Survey data collected between 2008 and 2009 were used to explore this association in 5,999 children aged 6 to 14 years. The prevalence of overweight defined by the age- and gender-specific body mass index cut-points of the International Obesity Task Force was 16", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/49/0c/PMC4068042.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5091224", "abstract": "Endoscopic unroofing is effective for treating large colonic lipomas. However, additional endoscopic resection is occasionally required when the outcomes of initial unroofing are incomplete. The colonoscopy of an 82-year-old woman with abdominal pain revealed a yellowish lipoma of about 20 mm in the transverse colon. The mass was treated by unroofing, but a follow-up colonoscopy 5 days later revealed residual lipoma. One month later, the regenerated surface had become covered with mucosa, and the status of the lipoma had returned to that before unroofing. The colonoscopy of a 74-year-old man with abdominal pain and melena revealed a 50-mm-wide protruding lipoma in the transverse colon. The mucosa of the upper third of the lipoma was excised using an electric knife and snare, which allowed the immediate partial drainage of adipose tissue. Unroofing proceeded, but 7 days later, the unroofed surface had become coated with a white substance, and the residual lipoma required additional endoscopic resection. Colonic lipomas are often asymptomatic. However, patients with abdominal pain and hemorrhage should be treated in consideration of complete resection, but not by unroofing, which could leave a residual tumor. Drainage should be confirmed after unroofing and any residual lipoma should be treated by additional resection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/d0/crg-0010-0538.PMC5091224.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3555221", "abstract": "Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is a rare vascular malformation of the spine. Only a limited number of cases of SDAVF have been reported in the current literature. We describe the case of a 74 year old male who presented with gradually progressive bilateral lower extremity weakness and bladder dysfunction and was subsequently diagnosed with SDAVF affecting both the thoracic and lumbar spine. The patient later underwent embolization with some improvement in his neurologic symptoms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/d8/PMC3555221.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3026330", "abstract": "Background:  The impact of physical activity on brain metabolic functions has been investigated in different studies and there is growing evidence that exercise can be used as a preventive and rehabilitative intervention in the treatment of depressive disorders. However, the exact neuronal mechanisms underlying the latter phenomenon have not been clearly elucidated. The present article summarises key results derived from studies that focussed on the neurobiological impact of exercise on brain metabolic functions associated with depressive disorders. Since major depressive disorder (MDD) is a life threatening disease it is of great significance to find reliable strategies to prevent or to cure this illness. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to review (1) the physiological relationship between physical activity and depressive disorders and (2) the potential neurobiological alterations induced by exercise that might lead to the relief of mental disorders like depression.  Methods:  We searched electronic databases for literature concerning the relationship between exercise and depression from 1963 until 2009.  Results:  The data suggests an association between physical inactivity and higher levels of depressive symptoms. Properly designed studies could show that exercise training can be as effective as antidepressive medications. Conclusion:  The exact mechanisms how exercise affects the brain are not fully understood and the literature lacks of well designed studies concerning the effects of exercise training on depressive disorders. But the observed antidepressant actions of exercise are strong enough that it already can be used as an alternative to current medications in the treatment of depressive disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/ed/CPEMH-6-115.PMC3026330.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3820230", "abstract": " [Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine according to gender and body mass index the number of steps taken by the sedentary workers as measured by a pedometer. [Subjects] Thirty-six sedentary workers in their twenties in Ulsan city were enrolled in for this study and their step counts were investigated. [Methods] Step counts at the workplace between 9 am and 6 pm everyday for 2 weeks were measured by a pedometer. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0 to compare step count according to gender and BMI on different days of the week. [Results] Females showed a higher step count than males on every day of the week except Fridays and Sundays. The step count was higher among the low weight group than overweight group on every day of the week. [Conclusion] Future studies should examine ways of helping sedentary workers to increase their step count. Also, more effort should be made to find practical ways of improving the number of steps taken in the workplace to keep workers in good health, as additional benefit would accrue, such as improved work efficiency.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/43/jpts-25-919.PMC3820230.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4918150", "abstract": "In 2015, countries in western Europe were declared free of rabies in nonflying mammals. Surveillance data for 2001–2013 indicate that risk for residual rabies is not 0 because of pet importation from countries with enzootic rabies. However, the risk is so low (7.52 × 10−10) that it probably can be considered negligible.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ac/4a/PMC4918150.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4558844", "abstract": "The expansion of DUF1220 domain copy number during human evolution is a dramatic example of rapid and repeated domain duplication. Although patterns of expression, homology, and disease associations suggest a role in cortical development, this hypothesis has not been robustly tested using phylogenetic methods. Here, we estimate DUF1220 domain counts across 12 primate genomes using a nucleotide Hidden Markov Model. We then test a series of hypotheses designed to examine the potential evolutionary significance of DUF1220 copy number expansion. Our results suggest a robust association with brain size, and more specifically neocortex volume. In contradiction to previous hypotheses, we find a strong association with postnatal brain development but not with prenatal brain development. Our results provide further evidence of a conserved association between specific loci and brain size across primates, suggesting that human brain evolution may have occurred through a continuation of existing processes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9a/c0/evv122.PMC4558844.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3633386", "abstract": "Background: Increasingly, women in rural areas in Sudan reported to hospital with puerperal infections. Aims: This study was design to identify the common pathogens causing puerperal infections and their susceptibility to current antibiotics. Subjects and methods: We prospectively studied 170 women from January, 2011 through January 2012 attended Hussein Mustafa Hospital for Obstetrics and Gynecology at Gadarif State, Sudan. We included patients if they met the criteria proposed by the WHO for definition of maternal sepsis. Blood was collected on existing infection guidelines for clean practice and equipments. Results: Out of the 170 samples, 124 (72.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/b2/MSM-25-19.PMC3633386.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4327609", "abstract": "The use of composite resins in dentistry is well accepted for restoring anterior and posterior teeth. Many polishing protocols have been evaluated for their effect on the surface roughness of restorative materials. This study compared the effect of different polishing systems on the surface roughness of microhybrid composites. Thirty-six specimens were prepared for each composite [Charisma® (Heraeus Kulzer), Fill Magic® (Vigodent), TPH Spectrum® (Dentsply), Z100® (3M/ESPE) and Z250® (3M/ESPE)] and submitted to surface treatment with Enhance® and PoGo® (Dentsply) points, sequential Sof-Lex XT® aluminum oxide disks (3M/ESPE), and felt disks (TDV) combined with Excel® diamond polishing paste (TDV). Average surface roughness (Ra) was measured with a mechanical roughness tester. The data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA with repetition of the factorial design and the Tukey-Kramer test (p<0.01). The F-test result for treatments and resins was high (p<0.0001 for both), indicating that the effect of the treatment applied to the specimen surface and the effect of the type of resin on surface roughness was highly significant. Regarding the interaction between polishing system and type of resin used, a p value of 0.0002 was obtained, indicating a statistically significant difference. A Ra of 1.3663 was obtained for the Sof-Lex/TPH Spectrum interaction. In contrast, the Ra for the felt disk+paste/Z250 interactions was 0.1846. In conclusion, Sof-Lex polishing system produced a higher surface roughness on TPH Spectrum resin when compared to the other interactions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/04/f0/1678-7757-jaos-17-01-0021.PMC4327609.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3088284", "abstract": "Mammalian embryos at the blastocyst stage have three major lineages, which in culture can give rise to embryonic stem (ES) cells from the inner cell mass or epiblast, trophoblast stem cells from the trophectoderm, and primitive endoderm stem cells. None of these stem cells is totipotent, because they show gene expression profiles characteristic of their sources and usually contribute only to the lineages of their origins in chimeric embryos. It is unknown whether embryos prior to the blastocyst stage can be cultivated towards totipotent stem cell cultures. Medaka is an excellent model for stem cell research. This laboratory fish has generated diploid and even haploid ES cells from the midblastula embryo with  2000 cells. Here we report in medaka that dispersed cells from earlier embryos can survive, proliferate and attach in culture. We show that even 32-cells embryos can be dissociated into individual cells capable of producing continuously growing ES-like cultures. Our data point to the possibility to derive stable cell culture from cleavage embryos in this organism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/c6/ijbsv07p0418.PMC3088284.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2994691", "abstract": "STATEMENT OF PROBLEM Many dental clinicians are concerned about immediate loading of inserted implants. However, there have been few clinical studies surveying the success rates of immediate loading, based on Korean implant systems. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of immediate functional loading of the implant (SinusQuick™ EB, Neobiotech Co., Seoul, Korea) in partially edentulous maxilla or mandible. MATERIAL AND METHODS Total 15 implants were placed. Within 2 weeks after implant insertion, provisional implant-supported fixed partial dentures were delivered to the patients. Quantitatively, marginal bone loss was measured at the time of immediate loading, after 3-months of continued loading and at the last follow-up. The mean follow-up period was 4.8 months. RESULTS Mean marginal bone loss from implant surgery to early loading, 3-months follow-up and last follow-up was 0.03 ± 0.07 mm, 0.16 ± 0.17 mm and 0.29 ± 0.19 mm. No implant failed up to 6 months after insertion, resulting in a 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/f8/jap-1-136.PMC2994691.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3236713", "abstract": "Purpose To describe a quality improvement for referral of National Health Service patients with macular disorders from a community optometry setting in an urban area. Methods Service evaluation of teleophthalmology consultation based on spectral domain optical coherence tomography images acquired by the community optometrist and transmitted to hospital eye services. Results Fifty patients with suspected macular conditions were managed via telemedicine consultation over 1 year. Responses were provided by hospital eye service-based ophthalmologists to the community optometrist or patient within the next day in 48 cases (96", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/da/PMC3236713.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3228372", "abstract": "Acute glomerulonephritis (AGN) is a common condition in childhood. Many children with AGN can be managed in the primary care setting. The diagnosis is usually made on the basis of urinary findings, especially the presence of red blood cell casts. One of the most important initial investigations is determining the complement C3 level; hypocomplementemia is most characteristic of post streptococcal AGN, while normocomplementemia is most often seen with IgA nephropathy. Children whose AGN is accompanied by significant hypertension or renal insufficiency should be assessed by a specialist immediately. The presence of serious extrarenal signs or symptoms also merits urgent referral. Otherwise, serial followup in the primary care office is appropriate.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1d/b5/PMC3228372.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3161324", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE A prenatal hypoxic insult leading to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) increases the susceptibility to develop metabolic syndrome (MetS) later in life. Since resveratrol (Resv), the polyphenol produced by plants, exerts insulin-sensitizing effects, we tested whether Resv could prevent deleterious metabolic effects of being born IUGR. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Pregnant rats were exposed to either a normoxic (control; 21", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/7d/2274.PMC3161324.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4693693", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Nonobstetric hematomas of the vulva are rare and not extensively reported in literature. There are no consensus guidelines and a paucity of literature to guide best practices with regard to management. We present a case of vulva hematoma in a teenage girl. Our experience highlights the importance of prompt surgical intervention to reduce associated morbidity and minimize hospital stay.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/da/b9/CCR3-3-0975.PMC4693693.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3580037", "abstract": " Panax quinquefolium, American ginseng, is valued for its triterpene saponins, known as ginsenosides. These constituents possess a number of pharmacological properties and hairy root cultures can synthesize similar saponins to those of field-cultivated roots. The antibacterial activity of extracts from three hairy root clones of P. quinquefolium L. was tested against a range of standard bacterial and yeast strains. The agar diffusion method was used to evaluate inhibition of microbial growth at various extract concentrations. Commercial antibiotics were used as positive reference standards to determine the sensitivity of the strains. Susceptibility testing to antibiotics was also tested using the disk diffusion method. The minimal inhibitory concentration values of the extracts, obtained by agar diffusion, ranged from 0.8 to 1.4 mg/ml. The results showed that extracts from hairy root cultures inhibited the growth of bacteria and yeast strains and suggest that they may be useful in the treatment of infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a0/05/PMC3580037.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3984012", "abstract": "Objective: To evaluate the effects of boceprevir (BOC) and telaprevir (TVR) on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of maraviroc (MVC) in healthy volunteers. Methods: In this open-label, fixed-sequence study, 14 volunteers received MVC 150 mg twice daily alone for 5 days (period 1), followed by MVC + BOC 800 mg 3 times daily and MVC + TVR 750 mg 3 times daily, each for 10 days in periods 2 and 3, respectively, with a ≥10-day wash-out. PK was analyzed on day 5 of period 1 and day 10 of periods 2 and 3. Safety was also assessed. Results: Ratios of the adjusted geometric means (90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d1/ee/qai-65-564.PMC3984012.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3227433", "abstract": " Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an invasive organism that frequently causes severe tissue damage in diabetic foot ulcers. A major problem in P. aeruginosa infection may be that this pathogen exhibits a high degree of resistance to a broad spectrum of antibiotics. The study aimed to isolate and determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of the P. aeruginosa population from diabetes patients with foot ulcers attending tertiary care hospitals in and around Coimbatore and their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern. The study was carried out at the Department of Microbiology, Dr. N.G.P. Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, for a period of one year (June 2006 to April 2007). The present study comprised 270 pus specimens collected from diabetic patients with foot ulcers. All pus samples were subjected to gram staining; bacterial culture and subsequently the antibiotic sensitivity to 15 different antibiotics for the confirmed P. aeruginosa were performed as per the standard procedures. Eighteen strains (14.28", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/d8/PMC3227433.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2779322", "abstract": "This study is designed to evaluate the immune status of schoolchildren with respect to Streptococcus pyogenes, and to ascertain the usefulness of antideoxyribonuclease B (ADNase B). Antistreptolysin O (ASO) and ADNase B concentrations were measured quantitatively in 266 serum samples from healthy elementary school children in Seoul. Simultaneously, throat cultures were taken in order to isolate S. pyogenes and other beta-hemolytic streptococci (BHS). The upper limits of the normal (ULN) concentration of ASO and ADNase B were 326 IU/mL, and 362 IU/mL, respectively. The correlation between ADNase B (y) and ASO (x) was y=0.4x+173 (r=0.46). Mean ADNase B level (392 IU/mL) was significantly higher in children with S. pyogenes than in those with non-group A BHS (236 IU/mL) or no BHS (234 IU/ mL). Some schoolchildren were proven, via ASO and ADNase B tests, to be harboring asymptomatic S. pyogenes infections. The high ULN of ASO and ADNase B in schoolchildren should be carefully considered, in order to interpret the data collected from the patients. We could add the ADNase B test to our set of diagnostic tools, which would allow us to more accurately detect and diagnose streptococcal infections, as ADNase B was more specifically related to the results of throat cultures, and there was little correlation between ASO and ADNase B.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c4/56/jkms-20-938.PMC2779322.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3420495", "abstract": "We present a case where a diagnosis of advanced HIV led to many other diagnoses but more importantly life-threatening multivariant Castleman's disease which is rare and was successfully treated. This case highlights the importance of questioning and challenging investigations when it does not fit with the clinical picture. Multidisciplinary teams are crucial and always seek expert advice if unsure. The much-quoted adage of “many symptoms and signs will fit one diagnosis” also bodes well in this case.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a7/fc/PMC3420495.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4288004", "abstract": "I was very honored to receive the University of California, San Francisco, and the International Society of Pharmacometrics Lewis Sheiner lecturer award in May 2013. In the present perspective, I outline the main points of my lecture at the American Conference of Pharmacometrics (slides in Supplementary Material 1). I first emphasize the scientific contributions of Lewis Sheiner as a quantitative pharmacologist toward the better use of drugs. I then focus on three statistical topics in pharmacometrics, describing Lewis Sheiner’s impact and my own contributions and interactions with him.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c4/a2/psp201452a.PMC4288004.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3929373", "abstract": " Objective. To discuss the safety and efficacy of Foley catheter removal of blunt pediatric esophageal foreign bodies. Methods. Analyzing our first 17 cases of pediatric esophageal foreign bodies removed by Foley catheter method in respect of the efficacy, removal methods, and complications. We also reviewed related literature and discussed the background, current status, and technical matters that need attention of this method. Results. In three-year period between May 2010 and May 2013, in 16 out of 17 children blunt radiopaque foreign bodies impacted in the esophagus were successfully removed by a Foley catheter. There were no complications. In one patient, the foreign body was advanced into stomach and came out with stool 2 days later. Conclusions. The technique is safe, rapid, and cost-effective procedure and applicable for blunt, flat foreign bodies impacted in the esophagus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/78/ce/PMC3929373.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4179131", "abstract": "Wound healing is a complex multi-step process that requires spatial and temporal orchestration of cellular and non-cellular components. Hypoxia is one of the prominent microenvironmental factors in tissue injury and wound healing. Hypoxic responses, mainly mediated by a master transcription factor of oxygen homeostasis, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1), have been shown to be critically involved in virtually all processes of wound healing and remodeling. Yet, mechanisms underlying hypoxic regulation of wound healing are still poorly understood. Better understanding of how the wound healing process is regulated by the hypoxic microenvironment and HIF-1 signaling pathway will provide insight into the development of a novel therapeutic strategy for impaired wound healing conditions such as diabetic wound and fibrosis. In this review, we will discuss recent studies illuminating the roles of HIF-1 in physiologic and pathologic wound repair and further, the therapeutic potentials of HIF-1 stabilization or inhibition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0d/55/molcell-37-9-637.PMC4179131.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2846343", "abstract": "Potential donors with congenital renal anomalies but normal renal function are often overlooked because of a possible increase in technical difficulty and complications associated with the surgery. However, as the waiting list for a deceased donor kidney transplant continues to grow, it is important to consider these kidneys for potential transplant. This paper describes the procurement of a crossed fused ectopic kidney, and subsequent parenchymal transection prior to transplantation as part of a combined simultaneous kidney pancreas transplant. The transplant was uncomplicated, and the graft had immediate function. The patient is now two years from transplant with excellent function.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5a/df/PMC2846343.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4568037", "abstract": "A method has been developed to induce and retain a contractile phenotype for vascular smooth muscle cells, as the first step towards the development of a biomimetic blood vessel construct with minimal compliance mismatch. Melt spun PCL fibers were deposited on a mandrel to form aligned fibers of 10 μm in diameter. The fibers were bonded into aligned arrangement through dip coating in chitosan solution. This formed a surface of parallel grooves, 10 μm deep by 10 μm across, presenting a surface layer of chitosan to promote cell surface interactions. The aligned fiber surface was used to culture cells present in the vascular wall, in particular fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells. This topography induced “surface guidance” over the orientation of the cells, which adopted an elongated spindle-like morphology, whereas cells on the unpatterned control surface did not show such orientation, assuming more rhomboid shapes. The preservation of VSMC contractile phenotype on the aligned scaffold was demonstrated by the retention of α-SMA expression after several days of culture. The effect was assessed on a prototype vascular graft prosthesis fabricated from polylactide caprolactone; VSMCs aligned longitudinally along a fiberless tube, whereas, for the aligned fiber coated tubes, the VSMCs aligned in the required circumferential orientation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/3b/PMC4568037.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3970689", "abstract": " Angiostrongylus cantonensis is an important causative agent of eosinophilic meningitis and eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in humans. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that participate in a wide range of biological processes. This study employed a deep-sequencing approach to study miRNAs from young adults of A. cantonensis. Based on 16,880,456 high-quality reads, 252 conserved mature miRNAs including 10 antisense miRNAs that belonging to 90 families, together with 10 antisense miRNAs were identified and characterised. Among these sequences, 53 miRNAs from 25 families displayed 50 or more reads. The conserved miRNA families were divided into four groups according to their phylogenetic distribution and a total of nine families without any members showing homology to other nematodes or adult worms were identified. Stem-loop real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis of aca-miR-1-1 and aca-miR-71-1 demonstrated that their level of expression increased dramatically from infective larvae to young adults and then decreased in adult worms, with the male worms exhibiting significantly higher levels of expression than female worms. These findings provide information related to the regulation of gene expression during the growth, development and pathogenesis of young adults of A. cantonensis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/78/92/0074-0276-mioc-108-06-699.PMC3970689.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3446179", "abstract": "Objective Angiopoietins are involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases. We tried to evaluate the application of pleural and serum Angiopoietin-1 and 2 in categorizing pleural effusions (PEs) into exudates and transudates in children. Methods Pleural fluid (PF) and serum Angiopoietin (Ang)-1 and Ang-2 were measured in 80 children with PEs (40 transudative and 40 exudative) by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Findings PF Ang-2 levels were significantly higher in pleural exudates than in transudates (P 0.012). PF Ang-2 levels were significantly higher than serum Ang-2 levels in patients with pleural exudates and transudates (P<0.001). PF Ang-2 levels were higher in tuberculous than in non-tuberculous pneumonic PEs and empyema (P=0.01). PF Ang-2 levels correlate with serum Ang-2 levels (P<0.003). PF Ang-1 levels were significantly lower than serum Ang-1 levels both in patients with exudates and those with transudates (P<0.001). Cutoff points of serum and PF Ang-2, differentiating between transudative and exudative effusions were 3ng/ml and 8ng/ml respectively. Predictive potentials of serum and PF Ang-2 cutoff points were: Sensitivity 90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/b3/IJPD-21-278.PMC3446179.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4713909", "abstract": "Pseudomonas stutzeri is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped, motile, single polar-flagellated, soil bacterium that was first isolated from human spinal fluid and is widely distributed in the environment. It was isolated as an uncommon opportunistic pathogen from humans, and a few cases of P. stutzeri-induced peritonitis have been reported in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Catheter removal with antibiotic treatment is generally recommended because peritonitis by Pseudomonas species is commonly associated with catheter-related infection. Here, we describe the first case of P. stutzeri-induced peritonitis in an 82-year-old woman in Korea. She had received two antipseudomonal antibiotics, an aminoglycoside (isepamicin, Yuhan corporation, Seoul, Korea) and a fluoroquinolone (ciprofloxacin), and was successfully treated without removal of the CAPD catheter.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/20/main.PMC4713909.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3169842", "abstract": "There is a shortage of registered nurses in developed countries, and this shortage is due to the aging nursing workforce, demand for healthcare services, and shortage of nursing professors to teach students. In order to increase the number of clinical placements for nursing students, the authors developed and implemented a collaborative preceptorship model between a Canadian University and Public Health Department to facilitate the clinical experiences of Bachelor of Science of Nursing (BScN) students. This paper describes the Team Preceptorship Model which guided the clinical experience of nine students and 14 preceptors. It also highlights the model's evaluation, strengths, and limitations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4c/d1/PMC3169842.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1828752", "abstract": "There is a need to identify genetic mediators of solid-tumor cancers, such as prostate cancer, where invasion and distant metastases determine the clinical outcome of the disease. Whole-genome expression profiling offers promise in this regard, but can be complicated by the challenge of identifying the genes affected by a condition from the hundreds to thousands of genes that exhibit changes in expression. Here, we show that reverse-engineered gene networks can be combined with expression profiles to compute the likelihood that genes and associated pathways are mediators of a disease. We apply our method to non-recurrent primary and metastatic prostate cancer data, and identify the androgen receptor gene (AR) among the top genetic mediators and the AR pathway as a highly enriched pathway for metastatic prostate cancer. These results were not obtained on the basis of expression change alone. We further demonstrate that the AR gene, in the context of the network, can be used as a marker to detect the aggressiveness of primary prostate cancers. This work shows that a network biology approach can be used advantageously to identify the genetic mediators and mediating pathways associated with a disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a9/ff/PMC1828752.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4381820", "abstract": "Introduction We designed a prospective observational study targeting a selective population of patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass grafting with normal systolic function. In this study we looked at the prevalence of pre-operative microvolt T-wave alternans and if it predicts atrial fibrillation after surgery. Methods The inclusion criteria included all patients referred to the cardiothoracic outpatient clinic for elective bypass, who can perform aerobic exercise, with a recent exercise stress test exercising at least to 85", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/87/a9/hlv-07-027.PMC4381820.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3242023", "abstract": "Neointimal hyperplasia mainly develops within several months of coronary stent deployment, after which it stabilizes. Although it was widely accepted, particularly during the bare-metal stent (BMS) era, that in-stent restenosis (ISR) generally does not present as an acute coronary syndrome (ACS), but rather as a gradual recurrence of angina symptoms, recent data have shown that a substantial number of patients with ISR present as ACS. There has also been consistent postmortem evidence of plaque rupture secondary to atherosclerotic change within the neointima of a BMS. We report here a case of ACS in which intravascular ultrasound and optical coherent tomographic assessments revealed neointimal atherosclerotic change and ruptured plaque 10 years after BMS deployment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/d8/kcj-41-671.PMC3242023.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5066006", "abstract": "Recently it was demonstrated that tumors induce specific changes to the surface of human endothelial cells thereby providing the basis for designing endothelial cell-based vaccines that directly target antigens expressed by the tumor endothelium. The present report extends these studies in vitro by investigating the efficacy of allogeneic antigens with regard to their ability to target immune responses against the tumor vasculature since alloantigens simplify vaccine development and implementation in clinical practice. We demonstrated that allogeneic SANTAVAC (Set of All Natural Target Antigens for Vaccination Against Cancer), which presents a specifically prepared composition of cell surface antigens from tumor-stimulated endothelial cells, allows targeting of the tumor vasculature with efficacy of 17, where efficacy represents the killing rate of target cells before normal cells are adversely affected, and efficacy of 60, where efficacy represents the fold decrease in the number of target cells and directly relates to tumor growth arrest. These data suggest that allogeneic SANTAVAC may be considered an antigenic composition that following administration in the presence of respective adjuvants may be clinically tested as a therapeutic or prophylactic universal cancer vaccine without adverse side effects to the normal vasculature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ce/eb/PMC5066006.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3346210", "abstract": "Background Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma may overlap and converge in older people (overlap syndrome). It was hypothesized that patients with overlap syndrome may have different clinical characteristics such as sputum eosinophilia, and better responsiveness to treatment with inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Methods Sixty-three patients with stable COPD (forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1] ≤80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/71/74/PMC3346210.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4581398", "abstract": "A rapidly progressive and crescentic IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is uncommon, but it has a high risk of progression to end-stage renal disease and variable response to immunosuppression. The importance of a positive anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) serology in this group of patients is not fully understood but may have prognostic significance. On the other hand, there is growing evidence of the role of complement in the pathogenesis of IgAN, especially in cases of crescentic IgAN. Therapies directed against the complement system are a potential and rational therapeutic approach. In this issue, two clinical studies of crescentic IgAN are presented. The first work, is a retrospective case–control study describing clinical presentation, histological findings and response to treatment of crescentic IgAN/positive ANCA patients, comparing them with IgAN/negative ANCA patients and ANCA vasculitis patients. The second is a case report showing the effect of eculizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that is a terminal cascade complement inhibitor, as salvage therapy for crescentic IgAN resistant to conventional immunosuppression. Both studies broaden our approach to patients with aggressive forms of IgAN.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/af/sfv095.PMC4581398.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2771796", "abstract": "A 59-year-old woman was transferred to our institution with a diagnosis of acute type A aortic dissection. During aortic replacement surgery, the dissection had not extended to the orifice of the left coronary artery. However, ST segment elevation was observed on an electrocardiogram monitor immediately postoperatively. An emergent coronary angiogram showed almost complete collapse of the lumen of the left coronary artery due to pulsatile compression of the false lumen, which was caused by extension of the aortic dissection. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was performed with placement of stents in the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and left circumflex artery. Coronary angiography and intravascular ultrasound performed 45-days after PCI showed significant instent restenosis (ISR) at the proximal portion of the LAD and residual coronary artery dissection of the diagonal branch. Repeat balloon angioplasty was performed at the site of the ISR. A follow-up coronary angiogram 8-months after the PCI showed no evidence of ISR.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/42/kcj-39-428.PMC2771796.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC138982", "abstract": "The human immunodeficiency virus has evolved various mechanisms to exploit its host cells, including the interruption and augmentation of signal transduction pathways. Recently, two DNA microarray studies have illustrated a remarkably broad-based perturbation in host transcriptional responses, which is in part mediated by the HIV-encoded Nef protein. HIV therefore seems to function as a 'master regulator' of cellular gene expression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3e/74/PMC138982.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4305549", "abstract": "[Purpose] Smartphone use reportedly changes posture. However, how neck posture is altered in smartphone users with neck pain is unknown. This study examined changes in the posture of young adults with and without mild neck pain (MNP) when using a smartphone. [Subjects] Thirteen control subjects and 14 subjects with MNP who used smartphones were recruited. [Methods] The upper cervical (UC) and lower cervical (LC) angles in the sagittal plane were measured using an ultrasound-based motion analysis system while the seated subjects used a smartphone for 5 min. [Results] During smartphone use, the MNP group exhibited greater UC and LC flexion angles than the control group. [Conclusion] These findings suggest that young adults with MNP are more careful and more frequently utilize a neutral neck posture than young adults without MNP when using a smartphone while sitting.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/28/35/jpts-27-15.PMC4305549.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4258638", "abstract": "Background Differences in habitual dietary fiber intake may modify effects of dietary fiber interventions, thus measurement of habitual dietary fiber intake is relevant to apply in intervention studies on fiber-rich foods, and food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) is a commonly used method. Rye bread is the major contributor of dietary fiber in the Danish population, and a nation-specific FFQ is therefore needed. Objective The aim of this study was to assess the relative validity and reproducibility of a self-administered quantitative FFQ designed to assess total dietary fiber intake among Danish adults. Design In order to assess the relative validity of the FFQ, a total of 125 participants completed both a 7-day weighed dietary recording (DR) and an FFQ consisting of 60 questions. To evaluate the reproducibility of the FFQ, a sub-group of 12 participants subsequently completed an FFQ approximately 6 months later. Results Estimates of mean dietary fiber intake were 24.9±9.8 and 28.1±9.4 g/day when applying the FFQ and DR, respectively, where FFQ estimates were  12", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/47/1d/FNR-58-24723.PMC4258638.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2788187", "abstract": "Consuming regular meals has been studied in relation to better health, while higher regularity of eating-out has been linked to obesity. This study examined whether acculturation was associated with regularity of meals, eating-out, and overweight in Korean Americans. Pre-tested questionnaires were mailed to a U.S. national sample with Korean American surnames, and 55", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c4/58/nrp-2-269.PMC2788187.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4449414", "abstract": "Abstract Background Retinol binding protein4 (RBP4) is a type of adipokine which transports vitamin A to serum. RBP4 could be a bridge between obesity and insulin resistance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aerobic exercises on RBP4 serum’s concentration and metabolic syndrome risk factors in obese women. Methods Twenty obese women with body max index 35.81±3.67Kg/m2, fat percentage 43.98±4.02, and waist to hip ratio 1.03±0.05 were included and were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received aerobic exercises for a period of 12 weeks each three sessions on treadmill workout. The treadmill speed were based on a 60-65 and 80-85 maximal heart rate percentage and duration of 15-20 and 45-50 minutes, at the beginning and the end of exercise, respectively. Body composition, serum glucose, insulin, TG, LDL-C, HDL-C, total cholesterol, and RBP4, were measured in both groups before and after the treatment by ELISA method. Insulin resistance was measured by HOMA-IR. To compare within group differences and between group comparisons t-correlated and t-independent tests were used, respectively. Results After 12 week aerobic exercises; weight, fat percentage, WHR, and BMI in the experimental group was significantly decreased (P<0.05). RBP4, insulin, insulin resistance, TG and HDL-C had significant differences between two groups. The cholesterol level, LDL-C and glucose did not have any significant changes. Conclusion The aerobic exercises can decrease body composition, insulin resistance, TG, and RBP4, so it can be beneficial for obese women’s health, because it.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/61/c8/PMC4449414.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3412114", "abstract": "This study evaluated the effects of LT4 administration on the bone mineral density (BMD) in physiological postmenopausal women after two years of continuative treatment. 110 postmenopausal women with nodular goiter aged between 50 and 55 years were examined before and after 2 years of therapy with a fixed dose of LT4 (1.6 mcg/kg/die) for the treatment of nodular thyroid disease. The results showed that the patients on treatment with LT4 have a slight, but significant reduction of the BMD after 2 years of treatment, associated with increased serum levels of alkaline phosphatase and urinary excretion of hydroxyproline, confirming our data conducted on the same group after one year of therapy. Comparison between patients receiving LT4 (group A) or not (group B) showed that group A patients had significantly lower BMD. We demonstrated the statistically significant influence of the following risk factors on BMD: (1) body mass index <19 kg/m2; (2) the onset of menarche after the age of 15 years; (3) positive history for period of amenorrhoea; (4) nulliparity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/47/PMC3412114.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5133726", "abstract": "The present paper explores whether the shape of long bone shafts can be explained as a mere result of mechano-adapation. A computer simulation study was conducted in order to investigate adaptation processes of bone-like structures under load patterns comparable to those acting on the diaphysis of long bones. The aim of the study was to have a deeper look into the relationship between typical loading patterns and resulting bone shape and structure. The simulations are based on a mechanistic model approach for mechano-transduction and bone transformation. Results of the simulations are that axial torsion around the long axis is important for the evolvement and maintenance of tube-like structures. Of note such structures can form from a variety of starting geometries, provided that axial torsion is present. The selection of the set-point parameter for the regulation of load adapted bone transformation has an impact on the final structure as well. In conclusion, the present study confirms the mechanical environment’s potential to generate shaft-like structures and demonstrates the respective boundary conditions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/46/5f/JMNI-15-215.PMC5133726.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4534078", "abstract": "Objective: To determine ways to improve diagnostic accuracy of multiple system atrophy (MSA), we assessed the diagnostic process in patients who came to autopsy with antemortem diagnosis of MSA by comparing clinical and pathologic features between those who proved to have MSA and those who did not. We focus on likely explanations for misdiagnosis. Methods: This is a retrospective review of 134 consecutive patients with an antemortem clinical diagnosis of MSA who came to autopsy with neuropathologic evaluation of the brain. Of the 134 patients, 125 had adequate medical records for review. Clinical and pathologic features were compared between patients with autopsy-confirmed MSA and those with other pathologic diagnoses, including dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), Parkinson disease (PD), and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). Results: Of the 134 patients with clinically diagnosed MSA, 83 (62", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/9c/NEUROLOGY2014630400.PMC4534078.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4710689", "abstract": "Adrenal glands are paired endocrine glands located over the upper renal poles. Adrenal pathologies have various clinical presentations. They can coexist with the hyperfunction of individual cortical zones or the medulla, insufficiency of the adrenal cortex or retained normal hormonal function. The most common adrenal masses are tumors incidentally detected in imaging examinations (ultrasound, tomography, magnetic resonance imaging), referred to as incidentalomas. They include a range of histopathological entities but cortical adenomas without hormonal hyperfunction are the most common. Each abdominal ultrasound scan of a child or adult should include the assessment of the suprarenal areas. If a previously non-reported, incidental solid focal lesion exceeding 1 cm (incidentaloma) is detected in the suprarenal area, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging should be conducted to confirm its presence and for differentiation and the tumor functional status should be determined. Ultrasound imaging is also used to monitor adrenal incidentaloma that is not eligible for a surgery. The paper presents recommendations concerning the performance and assessment of ultrasound examinations of the adrenal glands and their pathological lesions. The article includes new ultrasound techniques, such as tissue harmonic imaging, spatial compound imaging, three-dimensional ultrasound, elastography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound and parametric imaging. The guidelines presented above are consistent with the recommendations of the Polish Ultrasound Society.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/79/PMC4710689.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4106224", "abstract": "Pigment epithelium derived factor (PEDF) exerts trophic actions to motoneurons and modulates nonneuronal restorative events, but its effects on neuroplasticity responses after spinal cord (SC) injury are unknown. Rats received a low thoracic SC photothrombotic ischemia and local injection of PEDF and were evaluated behaviorally six weeks later. PEDF actions were detailed in SC ventral horn (motor) in the levels of the lumbar central pattern generator (CPG), far from the injury site. Molecules related to neuroplasticity (MAP-2), those that are able to modulate such event, for instance, neurotrophic factors (NT-3, GDNF, BDNF, and FGF-2), chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPG), and those associated with angiogenesis and antiapoptosis (laminin and Bcl-2) and Eph (receptor)/ephrin system were evaluated at cellular or molecular levels. PEDF injection improved motor behavioral performance and increased MAP-2 levels and dendritic processes in the region of lumbar CPG. Treatment also elevated GDNF and decreased NT-3, laminin, and CSPG. Injury elevated EphA4 and ephrin-B1 levels, and PEDF treatment increased ephrin A2 and ephrins B1, B2, and B3. Eph receptors and ephrins were found in specific populations of neurons and astrocytes. PEDF treatment to SC injury triggered neuroplasticity in lumbar CPG and regulation of neurotrophic factors, extracellular matrix molecules, and ephrins.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d2/2b/PMC4106224.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4841932", "abstract": "Background: Using the same cutoff points for whole-body measurements as for site-specific measurements will result in underestimation of osteoporosis. Objectives: We assessed the correlation between densitometry measurements for the whole body with those for the femur, lumbar spine, and forearm to evaluate the possibility of replacing site-specific values with whole-body measurements. Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated all patients referred to a single rheumatology clinic for bone mineral density measurements from 2009 to 2010. All patients who had bone mineral density measurements taken from the hip, lumbar spine, forearm, and whole body were enrolled in the study. Standard bone mineral density measurements were performed using a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry device (Hologic Delphi A; Hologic, Bedford, MA, USA). Bone mineral density, Z-score, and T-score were measured for all patients and all body regions. Results: The mean age of the 152 participating patients was 56.7 ± 12.6 years, and 97.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8c/23/iranjradiol-13-01-25609.PMC4841932.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4015246", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to investigate the performance of a new and accurate method for the detection of isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF) resistance among Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates using a crystal violet decolourisation assay (CVDA). Fifty-five M. tuberculosis isolates obtained from culture stocks stored at -80ºC were tested. After bacterial inoculation, the samples were incubated at 37ºC for seven days and 100 µL of CV (25 mg/L stock solution) was then added to the control and sample tubes. The tubes were incubated for an additional 24-48 h. CV (blue/purple) was decolourised in the presence of bacterial growth; thus, if CV lost its colour in a sample containing a drug, the tested isolate was reported as resistant. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and agreement for INH were 92.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/f2/0074-0276-mioc-109-02-00246.PMC4015246.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4378335", "abstract": " Purpose. To report 7 cases of intraocular lens (IOL) opacification following treatment of postoperative anterior chamber fibrin with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) after cataract surgery. Methods. Retrospective case series of 7 eyes in 7 patients who developed IOL opacification after receiving rtPA for anterior chamber inflammatory membrane formation resulting from phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Three explanted IOLs were investigated with light microscopy, histochemical analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray spectrometry. Results. All patients underwent uncomplicated cataract surgery and posterior chamber hydrophilic IOL implantation. Anterior chamber inflammatory membranes developed between 1 and 4 weeks of surgery and were treated with intracameral rtPA. IOL opacification was noted between 4 weeks and 6 years after rtPA treatment with reduced visual acuity, and IOL exchange was carried out in 3 patients. Light microscopy evaluation revealed diffuse fine granular deposits on the anterior surface/subsurface of IOL optic that stained positive for calcium salts. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS) confirmed the presence of calcium and phosphate on the IOL. Conclusions. Intracameral rtPA, though rapidly effective in the treatment of anterior chamber inflammatory membranes following cataract surgery, may be associated with IOL opacification.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6c/b6/PMC4378335.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3547892", "abstract": "Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), comprised of activated fibroblasts or myofibroblasts, are found in stroma surrounding solid tumors; these myofibroblasts promote invasion and metastasis of cancer cells. Activation of stromal fibroblasts into myofibroblasts is induced by expression of cystoskeleton protein, palladin, at early stages in tumorigenesis and increases with neoplastic progression. Expression of palladin in fibroblasts is triggered by paracrine signaling from adjacent k-ras-expressing epithelial cells. Three-dimensional co-cultures of palladin-expressing fibroblasts and pancreatic cancer cells reveals that the activated fibroblasts lead the invasion by creating tunnels through the extracellular matrix through which the cancer cells follow. Invasive tunneling occurs as a result of the development of invadopodia-like cellular protrusions in the palladin-activated fibroblasts and the addition of a wounding/inflammatory trigger. Abrogation of palladin reduces the invasive capacity of these cells. CAF also play a role in cancer resistance and immuno-privilege, making the targeting of activators of these cells of interest for oncologists.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/df/cam-6-488.PMC3547892.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2956473", "abstract": "Left ventricular noncompaction/hypertrabeculation is a condition which is characterized by a highly trabeculated, “spongy” myocardium. It can present at any age with heart failure, arrhythmia and/or thromboembolic events. A wide variety of mutations have been found to be a cause of hypertrabeculation and it is possible that there is a continuum of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy and hypertrabeculation/noncompaction. We present a case of left ventricular hypertrabeculation which presented as sudden infant death syndrome and we propose that this entity may be a hidden cause of arrhythmic death in some infants presenting as sudden infant death syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/bf/PMC2956473.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5027051", "abstract": "We have recently shown that tubular form of rotavirus (RV) recombinant VP6 protein has an in vivo adjuvant effect on the immunogenicity of norovirus (NoV) virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine candidate. In here, we investigated in vitro effect of VP6 on antigen presenting cell (APC) activation and maturation and whether VP6 facilitates NoV VLP uptake by these APCs. Mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 and dendritic cell line JAWSII were used as model APCs. Internalization of VP6, cell surface expression of CD40, CD80, CD86, and major histocompatibility class II molecules, and cytokine and chemokine production were analyzed. VP6 nanotubes were efficiently internalized by APCs. VP6 upregulated the expression of cell surface activation and maturation molecules and induced secretion of several proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The mechanism of VP6 action was shown to be partially dependent on lipid raft-mediated endocytic pathway as shown by methyl-β-cyclodextrin inhibition on tumor necrosis factor α secretion. These findings add to the understanding of mechanism by which VP6 exerts its immunostimulatory and immunomodulatory actions and further support its use as a part of nonlive RV-NoV combination vaccine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/55/67/PMC5027051.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5054491", "abstract": "For transcriptome analysis, it is critical to precisely define all the transcripts across the whole genome. More and more digital gene expression (DGE) scannings have indicated the presence of huge amount of novel transcripts in addition to the known gene models. However, almost all these studies still depend crucially on existing annotation. Here, we present Gene2DGE, a Perl software package for gene model renewal with DGE data. We applied Gene2DGE to the mouse blastomere transcriptome, and defined 98,532 read-enriched regions (RERs) by read clustering supported by more than four reads for each base pair. Taking advantage of this ab initio method, we refined 2,104 exonic regions (4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e9/25/main.PMC5054491.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3428520", "abstract": "Originally adapted from the neurosphere assay, the nonadherent mammosphere assay has been utilized to assess early progenitor/stem cell frequency in a given population of mammary epithelial cells. This method has also been used to measure the frequency of tumorsphere initiating cells in both primary mammary tumors as well as in tumor cell lines. Although, the mammosphere assay has been used extensively in the mammary gland field, a standard method of quantifying and analyzing sphere growth in this assay has remained undefined. Here, we discuss the use and benefit of using a limiting dilution analysis to quantify sphere-forming frequency in primary mammary epithelial cells grown in nonadherent conditions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/22/PMC3428520.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3274653", "abstract": "In order to care for an ill or injured child, it is crucial that every emergency department (ED) has a minimum set of personnel and resources because the majority of children are brought to the geographically nearest ED. In addition to adequate preparation for basic pediatric emergency care, a comprehensive, specialized healthcare system should be in place for a critically-ill or injured victim. Regionalization of healthcare means a system providing high-quality and cost-effective care for victims who present with alow frequency, but critical condition, such as multiple trauma or cardiac arrest. Within the pediatric field, neonatal intensive care and pediatric trauma care are good examples of regionalization. For successful regionalized pediatric emergency care, all aspects of a pediatric emergency system, from pre-hospital field to hospital care, should be categorized and coordinated. Efforts to set up the pediatric emergency care regionalization program based on a nationwide healthcare system are urgently needed in Korea.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/01/e4/kjped-54-477.PMC3274653.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4609523", "abstract": "Application of personalized medicine requires integration of different data to determine each patient's unique clinical constitution. The automated analysis of medical data is a growing field where different machine learning techniques are used to minimize the time-consuming task of manual analysis. The evaluation, and often training, of automated classifiers requires manually labelled data as ground truth. In many cases such labelling is not perfect, either because of the data being ambiguous even for a trained expert or because of mistakes. Here we investigated the interobserver variability of image data comprising fluorescently stained circulating tumor cells and its effect on the performance of two automated classifiers, a random forest and a support vector machine. We found that uncertainty in annotation between observers limited the performance of the automated classifiers, especially when it was included in the test set on which classifier performance was measured. The random forest classifier turned out to be resilient to uncertainty in the training data while the support vector machine's performance is highly dependent on the amount of uncertainty in the training data. We finally introduced the consensus data set as a possible solution for evaluation of automated classifiers that minimizes the penalty of interobserver variability.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/69/3c/PMC4609523.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3087962", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tBackground. The coexistence of neoplasm and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) presents a real management challenge. This paper reviews the literature on the prevalence, diagnosis, and management dilemmas of concurrent visceral malignancy and abdominal aortic aneurysm. Method. The MEDLINE and HIGHWIRE databases (1966-present) were searched. Papers detailing relevant data were assessed for quality and validity. All case series, review articles, and references of such articles were searched for additional relevant papers.  Results. Current challenges in decision making, the effect of major body-cavity surgery on an untreated aneurysm, the effects of major vascular surgery on the treatment of malignancy, the use of EVAR (endovascular aortic aneurysm repair) as a fairly low-risk procedure and its role in the management of malignancy, and the effect of other challenging issues such as the use of adjuvant therapy, and patients informed decision-making were reviewed and discussed. Conclusion. In synchronous malignancy and abdominal aortic aneurysm, the most life-threatening lesion should be addressed first. Endovascular aneurysm repair where possible, followed by malignancy resection, is becoming the preferred initial treatment choice in most centres.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/cf/PMC3087962.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3376051", "abstract": "N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) has long been known to play important roles in cell surface structure. Recent studies are now revealing new functions for GlcNAc in cell signaling. Exposure to GlcNAc regulates virulence functions in the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans and in pathogenic bacteria. These signaling pathways sense exogenous GlcNAc and are distinct from the O-GlcNAc signaling pathways in mammalian cells in which increased levels of intracellular GlcNAc synthesis leads to post-translational modification of proteins by attachment of O-GlcNAc. The novel roles of GlcNAc in cell signaling will be the subject of this mini-review.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/8d/cib-5-156.PMC3376051.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4709693", "abstract": "The goal of our study was to determine current melanoma reporting methods available to dermatologists and dermatopathologists and quantify changes in reporting methods from 2012 to 2014. A cross-sectional study design was utilized consisting of website perusal of reporting procedures, followed up by telephone and email inquiry of reporting methods from every state cancer registry. This study was conducted over a six-month period from February to August 2014. A previous similar survey was conducted in 2012 over the same time frame and results were compared. Kansas state cancer registry provided no data. As of August 2014, 96", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/96/8c/PMC4709693.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2952463", "abstract": "Auditory thalamocortical connections are organized as parallel pathways that originate in different divisions of the medial geniculate body (MGB). These pathways may be involved in different functions. Surprisingly little is known about the development of these connections. Here we review studies of the organization and development of auditory thalamocortical pathways in the pallid bat. The pallid bat depends primarily on passive hearing of prey-generated noise for localizing prey, while reserving echolocation for general orientation and obstacle avoidance. In the inferior colliculus (IC) and the auditory cortex, physiological studies show that noise and echolocation calls are processed in segregated regions. Injection of retrograde tracers in physiologically characterized cortical sites show that the ventral division of the MGB (MGBv) projects to the cortical region selective for noise. The cortical region selective for echolocation calls receives input from the suprageniculate (SG) nucleus in the dorsal MGB, but not from the MGBv. Taken together, these studies reveal parallel IC–MGB–cortex pathways involved in echolocation and passive listening. There is overlap of thalamocortical pathways during development. At 2-weeks postnatal, when the bat begins to exhibit adult-like hearing thresholds, the SG projects to both noise- and echolocation call-selective regions. The MGBv, as in adults, projects only to the noise-selective region. The connections become adult-like only after 2-months postnatal. These data suggest that parallel auditory thalamocortical pathways may segregate in an experience-dependent fashion, a hypothesis that remains to be tested in any species.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/07/41/PMC2952463.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4605946", "abstract": "Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke and is associated with increased risk of death. Randomized studies suggest improved quality of life for patients with AF after successful catheter ablation compared to antiarrhythmic drug therapy. The value of ablation in long-term risk of ischemic stroke, however, has not been assessed. We conducted a meta-analysis to determine whether AF ablation reduces the long-term risk of stroke compared to antiarrhythmic drug therapy in randomized controlled trials. Methods     Results PubMed and the Cochrane Central Register were searched for randomized trials from January 1990 to December 2014 comparing AF catheter ablation to drug therapy. The results are reported as risk differences (RDs) and 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/26/1c/jgc-12-05-507.PMC4605946.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5028617", "abstract": "Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) type II is a syndrome that develops after nerve injury. Symptoms may be severe, and vary depending on the degree of sympathetic nerve involvement. As yet, there is no satisfactory treatment. We report the case of a female patient who had an L5 left transverse process fracture and an S2 body fracture, who developed symptoms of CRPS type II in her left lower leg that were aggravated during ambulation in spite of absolute bed rest for one month after the trauma. Several treatments, including bed rest, medication, and numerous nerve blocks were attempted, but the pain persisted. We finally tried injection of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) solution at the left L5 transverse process fracture site because we knew of the anti-inflammatory effect of PDRN. One day after this treatment, her symptoms had almost disappeared and three days later, she was discharged. We will also further discuss the possibility of using PDRN solution for the treatment of CRPS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/da/af/jkns-59-529.PMC5028617.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4628490", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a motivation and practical skills development methods on the oral hygiene of orphans. Material and Methods Sixty eight orphans aged between 7 and 17 years from two orphanages in Kaunas were divided into two groups: practical application group and motivation group. Children were clinically examined by determining their oral hygiene status using Silness-Löe plaque index. Questionnaire was used to estimate the oral hygiene knowledge and practices at baseline and after 3 months. Statistical analysis included: Chi-square test (χ2), Fisher‘s exact test, Student‘s t-test, nonparametric Mann-Whitney test, Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient and Kappa coefficient. Results All children had a plaque on at least one tooth in both groups: motivation 1.14 (SD 0.51), practical application 1.08 (SD 0.4) (P = 0.58). Girls in both groups showed significantly better oral hygiene than boys (P < 0.001). After 3 months educational program oral hygiene status improved in both groups significantly 0.4 (SD 0.35) (P < 0.001). Significantly better oral hygiene was determined in practical application group 0.19 (SD 0.27) in comparison with motivation group 0.55 (SD 0.32) (P < 0.001). By comparing results of first and second questionnaire surveys on use of soft drinks, the statistically significant decline of their use was in both groups (P = 0.004). Conclusions Educational programs are effective in improving oral hygiene, especially when they’re based on practical skills training.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6e/04/jomr-06-e2.PMC4628490.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3432361", "abstract": "The application of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) for patients with hepatocellular cancer (HCC) necessitates highly selective criteria to maximize survival and to optimize allocation of a scarce resource. The objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of OLT for HCC in patients transplanted under Milan and UCSF criteria. The United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) database was queried for patients who had undergone OLT for HCC from 2002 to 2007, and 1,972 patients (Milan criteria, n = 1, 913; UCSF criteria, n = 59) were identified. Patients were stratified by pretransplant criteria (Milan versus UCSF), and clinical and pathologic factors and overall survival were compared. There were no differences in age, gender, diabetes mellitus, body mass index, and hepatitis B, or C status between the two groups. Overall survival was similar between the Milan and UCSF cohorts (1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year survival rates: 88", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/52/d0/PMC3432361.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2952618", "abstract": "Purpose To describe the course and outcome of treatment of advanced Acanthamoeba sclerokeratitis with intravenous pentamidine. Methods A case of advanced Acanthamoeba sclerokeratitis was resistant to conventional therapy and was treated with intravenous pentamidine. The eye was later removed due to incapacitating pain. Results The eye showed Acanthamoeba organisms within the cornea and evidence of acute and chronic inflammation throughout the remainder of the eye. The patient has survived without orbital recurrence for 2 years. Conclusions This case demonstrates late inflammation with active Acanthameoba keratitis following systemic pentamidine therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cd/d0/PMC2952618.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2628626", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE—Polymorphisms in the adiponectin gene (ADIPOQ) have been associated with type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy in type 1 diabetes, in mostly European-derived populations. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A comprehensive association analysis of 24 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the adiponectin gene was performed for type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy in African Americans. RESULTS—The minor allele (A) in a single SNP in intron 1 (rs182052) was associated with diabetic nephropathy (P = 0.0015, odds ratio [OR] 1.37, CI 1.13–1.67, dominant model) in an African American sample of 851 case subjects with diabetic nephropathy and 871 nondiabetic control subjects in analyses incorporating adjustment for varying levels of racial admixture. This association remained significant after adjustment of the data for BMI, age, and sex (P = 0.0013–0.0004). We further tested this SNP for association with longstanding type 2 diabetes without nephropathy (n = 317), and evidence of association was also significant (P = 0.0054, OR 1.46, CI 1.12–1.91, dominant model) when compared with the same set of 871 nondiabetic control subjects. Combining the type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy samples into a single group of case subjects (n = 1,168) resulted in the most significant evidence of association (P = 0.0003, OR 1.40, CI 1.17–1.67, dominant model). Association tests between age at onset of type 2 diabetes and the rs182052 genotypes also revealed significant association between the presence of the minor allele (A/A or A/G) and earlier onset of type 2 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS—The SNP rs182052 in intron 1 of the adiponectin gene is associated with type 2 diabetes in African Americans.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/d0/499.PMC2628626.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4794568", "abstract": " Objectives. Smoking is pathogenic for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) being tightly connected to the genetic and serological risk factors for this disease. This study aims to understand connections between cigarette smoking and serum levels of IGF1 and adipokines in RA. Methods. Serum levels of IGF1 and adipokines leptin, adiponectin, resistin, and visfatin were measured in two independent cohorts of RA patients from Gothenburg (n = 350) and Leiden (n = 193). An association of these parameters with smoking was tested in a direct comparison and proved by bivariate correlation analysis. The obtained associations were further tested in multivariate regression models where the confounders (age, gender, disease duration, and BMI) were controlled. Results. The smokers had significantly lower serum levels of IGF1, adiponectin, and leptin compared to never smokers. In regression analysis, smoking and low leptin, but not adiponectin, were associated and predicted low IGF1. Additionally, high disease activity and high BMI increased the probability of low leptin. Conclusions. The study indicates cigarette smoking as an important cause of a relative IGF1 and leptin deficiency in RA patients. This novel association between smoking and hypoleptinemia may be of importance for long-term prognosis of RA and for prediction of comorbidities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/3e/PMC4794568.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3021822", "abstract": "Various postoperative complications have been reported after the use of tension-free vaginal tapes (TVT). The transobturator approach was introduced to minimize the potential complications. The next generation of recently introduced TVT-SECUR is intended to minimize the incidence of complications. Herein we report a case of internal pudendal artery injury sustained during this procedure that was successfully treated by radiological embolization. Angiography with vessel embolization, when available, should be considered when the arterial injury is suspected.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/27/inj-14-275.PMC3021822.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4899656", "abstract": "Mycosis fungoides palmaris et plantaris (MFPP) is a rare variant of mycosis fungoides limited to the palms and soles. Although little is known about the pathogenesis of MFPP, this variant of mycosis fungoides presents a relatively good prognosis. In this report, we describe an 85-year-old Japanese man with MFPP. Immunohistochemical staining revealed the dense deposition of periostin in the cancer stroma, as well as infiltration of CD163+CD206− tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which suggested the phenotypes of TAMs were not polarized to the M2 phenotype in the lesional skin of MFPP. Our present case might suggest one of the possible reasons for the good prognosis of MFPP.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8c/a6/cde-0008-0031.PMC4899656.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5080196", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study examined the possibility of maintaining skin extensibility by stretching the skin involved in disuse joint contracture. [Subjects and Methods] The study was carried out using 18 male Wistar rats. The rats were randomly allocated to three groups. The control group received no intervention for the right ankle joint, the fixation group received one-week’s fixation of the right ankle joint in maximum plantar-flexion with a cast, and the stretching group received continuous stretching of the skin over the Achilles tendon for 30 min once daily for one week with the cast removed during the skin stretching, but the joint was not moved. On the final day, skin extensibility of the skin from the posterior aspect of the ankle joint was determined using a tensile strength tester and a length-tension curve. [Results] Statistical analysis of the data revealed significant differences in the skin extensibility among the three groups. The stretching group showed significantly greater improvement of skin extensibility than the fixation group. [Conclusion] Skin stretching without moving the joint was demonstrated to be useful for maintaining skin extensibility.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4c/2d/jpts-28-2656.PMC5080196.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4299884", "abstract": "Objective: To evaluate the frequency of JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) infection and anti-JCPyV antibodies in patients with multiple sclerosis under natalizumab therapy. Methods: Presence of anti-JCPyV antibodies and JCPyV DNA was analyzed in 39 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis undergoing natalizumab therapy. Anti-JCPyV antibodies were evaluated in serum by a 2-step virus-like particle-based ELISA assay (Stratify), and JCPyV DNA was evaluated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, plasma, and urine by quantitative PCR. The anti-JCPyV antibodies were evaluated in serum samples collected at the same time or later than those collected for DNA analysis. Results: JCPyV DNA was detected in 59", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ed/e3/PMC4299884.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3595657", "abstract": "Background: As social health is a condition-driven, dynamic and fluid concept, it seems necessary to construct and obtain a national and relevant concept of it for every society. Providing an empirical back up for Iran’s concept of social health was the aim of the present study. Methods: This study is an ecologic study in which available data for 30 provinces of Iran in 2007 were analyzed. In order to prove construct validity and obtain a social health index, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted on six indicators of population growth, willful murder, poverty, unemployment, insurance coverage and literacy. Results: Following the factor analysis, two factors of Diathesis (made up of high population growth, poverty, low insurance coverage and illiteracy) and Problem (made up of unemployment and willful murder) were extracted. The diathesis and problem explained 48.6 and 19.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fe/64/ijph-42-206.PMC3595657.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3980508", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Metastases to the breast from extra-mammary tumors are uncommon and few sporadic cases are reported in the international literature. An accurate differential diagnosis of secondary cancer is mandatory because both prognosis and treatment differ with respect to primary breast tumors. PRESENTATION OF CASE We present the case of a 70-year-old woman with an isolated metastasis to the breast occuring 9 years after undergoing a nephrectomy for Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC). Clinical examination revealed a palpable and mobile mass in the right breast with an enlarged ipsilateral axillary lymph node. Mammographic findings showed a dense, well circumscribed solid mass and the breast ultrasonography findings were those of a hypoechoic homogeneous solid nodule with no posterior attenuation but with prominent peripheral vascularity. A tru-cut biopsy was conclusive for a metastatic deposit by RCC. A whole-body CT scan showed no evidence of further recurrences. The patient underwent metastasectomy and exeresis of the papable lymphnode. DISCUSSION In patients with former surgery for RCC, a diagnosis based on a preoperative biopsy allows to indicate the proper surgical treatment: in facts, as compared to primary breast tumors treatment, the rationale to pursue wide surgical margins is pointless in cases of metastases and, similarly, the biopsy of the sentinel lymphnode is void of sense due to the lack of its physiopathological prerequisite. CONCLUSION We suggest to consider a micro-histological biopsy of any new breast lesion appearing in a patient with a history of treatment for RCC. Prompt diagnosis is necessary to choose the right treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/96/main.PMC3980508.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3811798", "abstract": "The majority of the vitamin D in our body is produced by cutaneous synthesis in response to sunlight. As more and more people live in cities and spend the bulk of their time indoors, it can be difficult to get sufficient sun exposure for adequate cutaneous production of vitamin D. Therefore, vitamin D insufficiency has become a very common health problem worldwide. The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey IV 2008 showed that the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency, defined as a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] level below 50 nmol/L, was 47.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/46/b5/enm-28-12.PMC3811798.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2935090", "abstract": "The role of topoisomerase IIβ was investigated in cell lines exposed to two DNA damaging agents, ionising radiation (IR) or etoposide, a drug which acts on topoisomerase II. The appearance and resolution of  γH2AX foci in murine embryonic fibroblast cell lines, wild type and null for DNA topoisomerase IIβ, was measured after exposure to ionising radiation (IR) or etoposide. Topoisomerase II-DNA adduct levels were also measured. IR rapidly triggered phosphorylation of histone H2AX, less phosphorylation was seen in TOP2β−/− cells, but the difference was not statistically significant. IR did not produce topoisomerase II-DNA adducts above control levels. Etoposide triggered the formation of topoisomerase II-DNA adducts and the phosphorylation of histone H2AX,  the  γH2AX foci appeared more slowly with etoposide than with IR. Topoisomerase II-DNA complexes in WT cells but not TOP2β−/− cells increased significantly at 24 hours with the proteasome inhibitor MG132, suggesting topoisomerase IIβ adducts are removed by the proteasome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/32/9e/PMC2935090.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3852810", "abstract": "Neurofibromatosis-1 is the most common single gene disorder affecting 1 in 3000. In children, it is associated not only with physical features but also with attention and learning problems. Research has identified a downward shift in intellectual functioning as well, but to date, there are no published studies about the everyday adaptive behavior of children with NF1. In this study, parental reports of adaptive behavior of 61 children with NF1 ages 3 through 8 were compared to an unaffected contrast group (n = 55) that comprised siblings and community members. Significant group differences in adaptive skills were evident and were largely related to group differences in intellectual functioning. In a subsample of children with average-range intellectual functioning, group differences in parent-reported motor skills were apparent even after controlling statistically for group differences in intellectual functioning. The implications of the findings for the care of children with NF1 are discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/30/PMC3852810.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2893966", "abstract": "The current global energy problem can be attributed to insufficient fossil fuel supplies and excessive greenhouse gas emissions resulting from increasing fossil fuel consumption. The huge demand for clean energy potentially can be met by solar-to-electricity conversions. The large-scale use of solar energy is not occurring due to the high cost and inadequate efficiencies of existing solar cells. Nanostructured materials have offered new opportunities to design more efficient solar cells, particularly one-dimensional (1-D) nanomaterials for enhancing solar cell efficiencies. These 1-D nanostructures, including nanotubes, nanowires, and nanorods, offer significant opportunities to improve efficiencies of solar cells by facilitating photon absorption, electron transport, and electron collection; however, tremendous challenges must be conquered before the large-scale commercialization of such cells. This review specifically focuses on the use of 1-D nanostructures for enhancing solar cell efficiencies. Other nanostructured solar cells or solar cells based on bulk materials are not covered in this review. Major topics addressed include dye-sensitized solar cells, quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells, and p-n junction solar cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e2/f3/PMC2893966.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4540891", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to report the effects of ankle inversion taping using kinesiology tape in a patient with a medial ankle sprain. [Subject] A 28-year-old amateur soccer player suffered a Grade 2 medial ankle sprain during a match. [Methods] Ankle inversion taping was applied to the sprained ankle every day for 2 months. [Results] His symptoms were reduced after ankle inversion taping application for 2 months. The self-reported function score, the reach distances in the Star Excursion Balance Test, and the weight-bearing ankle dorsiflexion were increased. [Conclusion] This study showed that ankle inversion taping using kinesiology tape may be an effective therapy for a patient with a medial ankle sprain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/b2/jpts-27-2407.PMC4540891.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3809438", "abstract": "Here, we report a rare case of an anaplastic astrocytoma masquerading as a hypertensive basal ganglia hemorrhage. A 69-year-old woman who had been under medical management for hypertension during the past 3 years suddenly developed right hemiparesis with dysarthria. Brain computed tomography (CT) scans with contrast and CT angiograms revealed an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in the left basal ganglia, without an underlying lesion. She was treated conservatively, but underwent a ventriculoperitoneal shunt operation 3 months after the initial attack due to deteriorated mental status and chronic hydrocephalus. Three months later, her mental status deteriorated further. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with gadolinium demonstrated an irregular enhanced mass in which the previous hemorrhage occurred. The final histological diagnosis which made by stereotactic biopsy was an anaplastic astrocytoma. In the present case, the diagnosis of a high grade glioma was delayed due to tumor bleeding mimicking hypertensive ICH. Thus, a careful review of neuroradiological images including MRI with a suspicion of tumor bleeding is needed even in the patients with past medical history of hypertension.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/db/jkns-54-125.PMC3809438.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2784057", "abstract": "Giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone arising from a phalanx of a finger is extremely rare. We report two cases of GCT arising from a phalanx of a finger. One case presented with recurrence following the amputation of the left ring finger (performed elsewhere). He was treated successfully with ray amputation. The other case was treated primarily by intralesional curettage and autogenous bone graft. At their most recent follow-ups (80 and 24 months, respectively), both were recurrence free and had returned to their previous occupational and recreational activities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/62/PMC2784057.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3649550", "abstract": "We investigated the relationship between preoperative comorbidity and postoperative survival after intestinal transplantation. Each patient received a score for preoperative comorbidity. Each comorbidity was given a score based on the degree it impaired function (score range 0–3). A total score was derived from the summation of individual comorbidity scores. Patients (72 adults (M : F, 33 : 39)) received an isolated intestinal graft (27) or a cluster graft (45). Mean (standard deviation) survival was 1501 (1444) days. The Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a significant inverse association between survival and comorbidity score (logrank test for trend, P < 0.0001). Patients grouped into comorbidity scores of 0 and 1, 2 and 3, 4 and 5, 6, and above had hazard ratios (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/74/67/PMC3649550.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2323033", "abstract": "Cell fusions are important to fertilization, placentation, development of skeletal muscle and bone, calcium homeostasis and the immune defense system. Additionally, cell fusions participate in tissue repair and may be important to cancer development and progression. A large number of factors appear to regulate cell fusions, including receptors and ligands, membrane domain organizing proteins, proteases, signaling molecules and fusogenic proteins forming alpha-helical bundles that bring membranes close together. The syncytin family of proteins represent true fusogens and the founding member, syncytin-1, has been documented to be involved in fusions between placental trophoblasts, between cancer cells and between cancer cells and host cells. We review the literature with emphasis on the syncytin family and propose that syncytins may represent universal fusogens in primates and rodents, which work together with a number of other proteins to regulate the cell fusion machinery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/43/14/PMC2323033.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4305538", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to determine the initial effect of local vibration on the stability of the shoulder joints by applying local vibration to the shoulder joints. [Subjects and Methods] For the test, the subjects held a FlexBar with one hand, at about 10 cm from one end, and performed the oscillation movement with the shoulder at 90° flexion and the elbow in the full-extension position in scaption; the vibration stimulus was set to 5 Hz. Then, the subjects underwent the Upper Quarter Y Balance Test to evaluate the stability of the shoulder joints. [Results] The moving distances in the left, right, and upper directions after the oscillation movement were increased significantly compared with the results before the oscillation movement. [Conclusion] A vibration stimulus is effective as an exercise method to increase the stability of the shoulder joints.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/b0/jpts-27-115.PMC4305538.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2657245", "abstract": "Introduction The purpose of this study is to identify the rate of emergency department (ED) intubation and the mortality associated with ED intubation. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients intubated in the ED between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2004 at an urban level one trauma centre with approximately 50,000 ED visits annually. All ED intubations were identified and reviewed. Two investigators reviewed all charts and collected the following data: age, sex, and final disposition from hospital as well as reason for intubation. The main outcome measure was survival to hospital discharge. Results One hundred sixty-three intubations were reviewed. Of the total 163 patients, 44 (27.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/99/PMC2657245.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5348121", "abstract": "Picky eating is a problematic eating behavior caregivers may encounter with children under their care. A picky eater (PE) is typically characterized as consuming a narrow range of food, as well as rejecting several food items. Much of the literature regarding PEs involves parents, although use of nonparental childcare arrangements in the United States has increased in the past several decades. Although data on parental mealtime strategies exist, little is known about how parent and childcare provider pickiness perceptions differ between types of childcare, such as center-based childcare (CBCC) and home-based childcare (HBCC), or how these perceptions influence the mealtime strategies utilized. The objectives of this study were to (1) compare perceptions of child pickiness between parents and childcare providers, (2) compare percent agreement in pickiness perception between the dyads of CBCC parents and providers and HBCC parents and providers, and (3) identify mealtime strategy utilization based on pickiness perception. A total of 52 child, parent, and childcare provider triads participated in the study and completed the Mealtime Assessment Survey and the Parent/Teacher Mealtime Strategy Survey regarding the same child. Results showed that parents are 1.4 times more likely than childcare providers to perceive a child as being picky, HBCC parents and providers are 1.4 times more likely to perceive a child as being picky than CBCC parents and providers, CBCC parents and providers disagree more in their perception of child pickiness than HBCC parents and providers (41", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/0f/10.1177_1178638816684830.PMC5348121.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3793297", "abstract": "Toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is one of the most common parasitic infections of humans and other warm-blooded animals in most parts of the world. The disease is common among sheep and goats and it is recognized as one of the major causes of reproductive failure in these animals. Cattle, on the other hand, can be infected, but abortion or perinatal mortality has not been recorded. This survey was carried out to study the prevalence of this disease in cattle in Khartoum and Gazira States (Sudan). 181 sera samples collected from dairy cattle with reproductive problems were assayed for antibodies to T. gondii by ELISA. The prevalence rate of T. gondii antibodies in cattle at herd level was 44.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/55/46/PMC3793297.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3228975", "abstract": "Among functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, functional dyspepsia (FD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are important to public health around the world and are frequently encountered in general practice. Upper GI symptoms such as heartburn, postprandial fullness, early satiety, epigastric pain or burning and lower GI symptoms such as constipation and diarrhea often coexist. Although the prevalence of FD-IBS overlap would be influenced by the selection of the study population, the overlap rate of FD-IBS could be in the range of 11", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a1/45/jnm-17-360.PMC3228975.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3770521", "abstract": "Background Myanmar is one of the countries hardest hit by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic in Asia. Aim The objective of the study was to determine HIV prevalence among the female sex workers in major cities in Myanmar and the risk behaviors associated with it. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among female sex workers in major cities in Myanmar. Interviews were conducted by trained research assistants, in private, using a questionnaire. The HIV status of the respondents was asked and confirmed by the blood test reports from the laboratories of the Myanmar National AIDS Programme sexually transmitted infections (STI)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) Teams and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Results There were 200 respondents in this study. Out of the 136 participants who were tested for HIV, 25 (18.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/38/98/hiv-5-223.PMC3770521.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3313497", "abstract": "In 2005, draft sequences of the genomes of Trypanosoma brucei, Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania major, also known as the Tri-Tryp genomes, were published. These protozoan parasites are the causative agents of three distinct insect-borne diseases, namely sleeping sickness, Chagas disease and leishmaniasis, all with a worldwide distribution. Despite the large estimated evolutionary distance among them, a conserved core of  6,200 trypanosomatid genes was found among the Tri-Tryp genomes. Extensive analysis of these genomic sequences has greatly increased our understanding of the biology of these parasites and their host-parasite interactions. In this article, we review the recent advances in the comparative genomics of these three species. This analysis also includes data on additional sequences derived from other trypanosmatid species, as well as recent data on gene expression and functional genomics. In addition to facilitating the identification of key parasite molecules that may provide a better understanding of these complex diseases, genome studies offer a rich source of new information that can be used to define potential new drug targets and vaccine candidates for controlling these parasitic infections.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/de/fc/PMC3313497.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3022229", "abstract": "Metabolomics involves the identification and quantification of metabolites present in a biological system. Three different approaches can be used: metabolomic fingerprinting, metabolic profiling, and metabolic footprinting, in order to evaluate the clinical course of a disease, patient recovery, changes in response to surgical intervention or pharmacological treatment, as well as other associated features. Characteristic patterns of metabolites can be revealed that broaden our understanding of a particular disorder. In the present paper, common strategies and analytical techniques used in metabolomic studies are reviewed, particularly with reference to the cardiovascular field.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ef/2c/PMC3022229.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3322044", "abstract": "Influenza A pandemic (H1N1) 2009 virus continues to rapidly spread worldwide. In 2009, pandemic (H1N1) 2009 infection in a domestic cat from Iowa was diagnosed by a novel PCR assay that distinguishes between Eurasian and North American pandemic (H1N1) 2009 virus matrix genes. Human-to-cat transmission is presumed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/d9/PMC3322044.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2860364", "abstract": "A new method was developed for simultaneous determination of copper, lead, and cadmium, based on their voltammetric response at a carbon paste electrode modified with hexagonal mesoporous silica (HMS) immobilized quercetin (HMS-Qu/CPE). Compared with quercetin modified carbon paste electrode (Qu/CPE) and quercetin ionic liquid modified carbon paste electrode (Qu-IL/CPE), the HMS-Qu/CPE exhibited improved selectivity and high sensitivity toward the detection of copper, lead, and cadmium. The properties of the HMS-Qu/CPE in 0.1 M HCOONa-HCl buffer solution (pH4.7) were investigated by adsorptive stripping voltammetry (ASV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The electrochemical behavior of copper, lead, and cadmium at the modified electrodes and factors affecting the preconcentration procedures were also investigated. Detection limits of 5.0, 0.8, 1.0 nM for copper, lead, and cadmium were obtained, respectively. The method is simple, fast, sensitive, and selective, and is successfully applied to soil sample.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/ff/PMC2860364.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3713915", "abstract": "As medical ethics indisputably needs to consider patients’ religious beliefs and spiritual ideas, one can suggest that hospitals are responsible for not only patients’ rights and dignity, but also for her/his religious concerns and expectations. The current study is designed shed some light on the patients’ view of the implementation of religious law in Iranian hospitals, specifically, the right of patients to be visited and delivered health services by professionals from the same sex. This protocol is proposed by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education of the Islamic Republic of Iran as a response to the increasing demand for implementation of the religious law by Iranian patients. This research is a cross-sectional study which was conducted at four teaching general hospitals in Tehran, Iran. The data was collected by the means of a questionnaire distributed to 120 women who were admitted to different wards of the hospitals. These women were asked to express their opinion of the implementation the Same Sex Health Care Delivery (SSHCD) system in Iranian hospitals. All analyses were performed with the use of SPSS software, version 16.0. The results indicate that half of the hospitalized women believed that being visited by a physician from the same gender is necessary who advocated the implementation of SSHCD in a clinical setting; and most of their husbands preferred their wives to be visited exclusively by female physicians. This study highlights the view of the Iranian patients towards the issue and urges the Ministry of Health and Medical Education of the Islamic Republic of Iran to accelerate the implementation of this law. SSHCD is what the majority of Iranian patients prefer, and, considering patients’ rights and the medical ethics, it should be implemented by Iranian policy makers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/26/59/jmehm-4-7.PMC3713915.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4305534", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study examined the effects of closed chain exercises performed with local vibration applied to an unstable support surface on the thickness and length of the transverse abdominis. [Subjects] The subjects were 64 healthy university students who were randomly assigned to a bridge exercise with sling and vibration group (BESVG, n=30) and a bridge exercise with sling group (BESG, n=34). [Methods] The bridge exercise was repeated four times per set and a total of 18 sets were performed: 9 sets in a supine position and 9 sets in a prone position. In both the BESVG and the BESG groups, the thickness and length of the transverse abdominis (TrA) were measured using ultrasonography with the abdomen “drawn-in” and the pressure of a biofeedback unit maintained at 40 mmHg, both before and after the intervention. [Results] In intra-group comparisons, the BESVG showed significant increases in the thickness of the TrA and significant decreases in the length of the TrA. The BESG showed significant increases in the thickness of the TrA. The BESVG showed significant increases in the thickness of the TrA and significant decreases in the length of the TrA compared to BESG. [Conclusion] Closed chain exercises for the lumbar region performed with local vibration applied to slings, which are unstable support surfaces, are an effective intervention for altering the thickness and length of the TrA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/9a/jpts-27-101.PMC4305534.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4960337", "abstract": " Background. The effects of smoking on human metabolism are complex. Although smoking increases risk for diabetes mellitus, smoking cessation was also reported to be associated with weight gain and incident diabetes mellitus. We therefore conducted this study to clarify the association between smoking status and newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus. Methods. An analysis was done using the data of a mass health examination performed annually in an industrial park from 2007 to 2013. The association between smoking status and newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus was analyzed with adjustment for weight gain and other potential confounders. Results. Compared with never-smokers, not only current smokers but also ex-smokers in their first two years of abstinence had higher odds ratios (ORs) for newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus (never-smokers 3.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f6/bf/PMC4960337.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3515912", "abstract": "Accurate pulmonary image registration is a challenging problem when the lungs have a deformation with large distance. In this work, we present a nonrigid volumetric registration algorithm to track lung motion between a pair of intrasubject CT images acquired at different inflation levels and introduce a new vesselness similarity cost that improves intensity-only registration. Volumetric CT datasets from six human subjects were used in this study. The performance of four intensity-only registration algorithms was compared with and without adding the vesselness similarity cost function. Matching accuracy was evaluated using landmarks, vessel tree, and fissure planes. The Jacobian determinant of the transformation was used to reveal the deformation pattern of local parenchymal tissue. The average matching error for intensity-only registration methods was on the order of 1 mm at landmarks and 1.5 mm on fissure planes. After adding the vesselness preserving cost function, the landmark and fissure positioning errors decreased approximately by 25", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/f6/PMC3515912.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5319499", "abstract": "Abstract Introduction: Bilateral common iliac artery (CIA) aneurysm (CIAA) is a rare entity. In the past decade, different endovascular approaches have been adopted for patients with several comorbidities or unfit for open repair (OR). Recently, the use of iliac branch stent graft has been proposed, resulting in satisfactory patency rates and decrease in morbidity. Currently, according to instruction for use, the iliac branch stent graft is to be used with aortobi-iliac stent graft conjunction. We describe a case of a successful endovascular repair of bilateral CIAAs using the GORE Excluder iliac branch endoprosthesis (IBEs) without aortobi-iliac stent graft conjunction. Case presentation: An 83-year-old man was admitted with abdominal pain and presence of pulsatile mass in the right and left iliac fossa. Computed tomographic (CT) angiography showed the presence of large bilateral CIAAs (right CIA = 66 mm; left CIA = 38 mm), without concomitant thoracic or abdominal aorta aneurysm. Moreover, CT scan demonstrated the presence of bilateral lower accessory renal artery close to the aortic bifurcation. Due to the high operative risk, the patient was scheduled for endovascular repair with bilateral IBEs, without the aortobi-iliac stent graft conjunction to avoid the renal ischemia as a consequence of renal arteries covering. The procedure was completed without complications and duplex ultrasound demonstrated the complete exclusion of both aneurysms without any type of endoleaks at 1 month of follow-up. Conclusions: GORE IBEs without aortobi-iliac stent graft conjunction seem to be a feasible and effective procedure for the treatment of isolated CIAAs in patients with highly selected anatomical conditions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/05/e4/medi-96-e5977.PMC5319499.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4906751", "abstract": "Visceral leishmaniasis is a deadly parasitic disease that is transmitted via the bite of a female sand fly, Phlebotomus argentipes. The highest burden of this disease is in northern India. In 2005, India embarked on an initiative with Nepal, Bangladesh, and the World Health Organization to eliminate visceral leishmaniasis by 2015. With the goal of 1 case in 10,000 people still unmet, it is prudent to evaluate the tools that have been used thus far to reduce vector numbers and cases of the disease. Herein, we present a review of studies conducted on vector-control strategies in India to combat visceral leishmaniasis including indoor residual spraying, insecticide-treated bed nets, environmental modification, and feed-through insecticides. This review suggests that the quality of indoor residual spraying may enhance control measures while a combination of spraying, nets, and feed-through insecticides would best confront the diverse habitats of P. argentipes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d6/50/PMC4906751.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4737024", "abstract": "In search of novel effective potent therapeutic agents delivered by oral route for inflammation treatment, some novel O-propargylated-N-acetylpyrazole analogs (5a–j) were prepared by treating N-acetylpyrazole (4a–j) derived from 1,3-diarylpropenones (3a–j) with propargyl bromide. Claisen-Schmidt condensation of a series of substituted aryl ketones 1 and benzaldehydes 2 in glacial acetic acid afforded 1,3-diarylpropenones which on further treatment with hydrazine hydrate in acetic acid under reflux conditions afforded 1-acetyl-3,5-diaryl-4,5-dihydro(1H)pyrazoles (4a–j). The products were characterized by using spectroscopic techniques such as IR and NMR. In addition, the in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of the synthesized compounds was determined using the carrageenan-induced paw oedema method in rats.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/16/20/PMC4737024.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2635901", "abstract": "Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate surface roughness in provisional crown acrylics, after polishing, reinforced with different concentrations of glass fibers. Methods A total of 48 disk-shaped specimens were prepared using autopolymerizing acrylic resin. These specimens were divided into four groups according to the level of glass fiber added: Group A (no fiber), Group B (0.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b2/c1/PMC2635901.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3574803", "abstract": "Editor’s note: Chronic pain affects 1.5 billion people worldwide, an estimated 100 million of whom live in the United States. Yet we currently have no effective treatment options. Fortunately, writes David Borsook, director of the Pain and Imaging Neuroscience Group at Children’s Hospital Boston, Massachusetts General Hospital, and McLean Hospital, research advances have determined some of the ways in which chronic pain changes the brain, and several promising research areas could lead to better treatment approaches. Dr. Borsook recommends steps to facilitate these new treatments, including the establishment of integrated clinical neuroscience centers bridging the gap between bench and bedside.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/06/36/PMC3574803.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2776389", "abstract": "The efficiency of RNA interference varies between different organisms, even among nematodes. A recent report of successful RNA interference in the nematode Panagrolaimus superbus in BMC Molecular Biology has implications for the comparative study of the functional genomics of nematode species, and prompts reflections on the choice of Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/18/2c/PMC2776389.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3373974", "abstract": "Background Tuberculous abscess of the chest wall is a very rare disease. Few articles have reported on it and those that have enrolled few patients. To determine the characteristics of this disease and to suggest an optimal treatment strategy, we reviewed patients treated by surgical management. Materials and Methods Between October 1981 and December 2009, 68 patients treated by surgical management for a tuberculous abscess of the chest wall were reviewed retrospectively. Results Of 33 men and 35 women, 31 patients had a current or previous history of tuberculosis. The main complaints were chest pain, a palpable mass, pus discharge, and coughing. A preoperative bacteriologic diagnosis was performed in 12 patients. Abscess excision was performed in 54 cases, abscess cavity excision and partial rib resection in 13, and abscess excision and partial sternum and clavicle excision in 1 case. Postoperative wound infection was noted in 16 patients and a secondary operation was performed in 1 patient. Recurrence occurred in 5 patients (7.35", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/c6/kjtcs-45-177.PMC3373974.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5153477", "abstract": "We present a post hoc analysis of 17,530 questionnaires collected as part of the 2012 screening for neuropathy using Norfolk Quality of Life tool in patients with diabetes in Romania, to assess the impact on foot complications of time between the onset of symptoms of diabetes/its complications and the physician visit. Odds ratios (ORs) for self-reporting neuropathy increased from 1.16 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/1a/PMC5153477.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4937157", "abstract": "The aim of the present study was to evaluate the reliability and effectiveness of directly determining endotoxin activity in plasma samples from kangaroos with lumpy jaw disease (LJD, n=15) and healthy controls (n=12). Prior to the present study, the ability of the commercially available automated handheld portable test system (PTSTM) to detect endotoxin activity in kangaroo plasma was compared with that of the traditional LAL-kinetic turbidimetric (KT) assay. Plasma samples, which were obtained from endotoxin-challenged cattle, were diluted 1:20 in endotoxin-free water and heated to 80°C for 10 min. The performance of the PTSTM was not significantly different from that of the traditional LAL-based assay. The data obtained using PTSTM correlated with those using KT (r2=0.963, P<0.001). These findings indicated that the PTSTM is applicable as a simplified system to assess endotoxin activity in macropods. In the present study, we demonstrated the diagnostic value of plasma endotoxin activity in kangaroos with systemic inflammation caused by oral necrobacillosis and identified plasma endotoxin activity as a sensitive marker of systemic inflammation in kangaroos with LJD. Based on ROC curves, we proposed a diagnostic cut-off point for endotoxin activity of >0.22 EU/ml for the identification of LJD. Our results indicate that the assessment of plasma endotoxin activity is a promising diagnostic tool for determining the outcome of LJD in captive macropods.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/a8/jvms-78-971.PMC4937157.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4626338", "abstract": "Objective Routine use of prophylactic antiepileptic drugs (AED) has been debated. We retrospectively evaluated the effects of prophylactic AED on clinical outcomes in patients with a good clinical grade suffering from aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Materials and Methods Between September 2012 and December 2014, 84 patients who met the following criteria were included: (1) presence of a ruptured aneurysm; (2) Hunt-Hess grade 1, 2, or 3; and (3) without seizure presentation. Patients were divided into two groups; the AED group (n = 44) and the no AED group (n = 40). Clinical data and outcomes were compared between the two groups. Results Prophylactic AEDs were used more frequently in patients who underwent microsurgery (84.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/04/jcen-17-166.PMC4626338.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3051082", "abstract": "The present study was performed to determine the incidence and predictive factors of benign renal lesions in Korean patients undergoing nephrectomy for presumed renal cell carcinoma on preoperative imaging. We analyzed the pathologic reports and medical records of 1,598 eligible patients with unilateral, nonmetastatic, and nonfamilial renal masses. Of the 1,598 renal masses, 114 (7.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/c9/jkms-26-360.PMC3051082.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3174359", "abstract": "Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic multisystem disorder that results from mutations in the TSC1 or TSC2 genes, and is associated with hamartomas in several organs, including subependymal giant cell tumors. The neurological manifestations of TSC are particularly challenging and include infantile spasms, intractable epilepsy, cognitive disabilities, and autism. The TSC1- and TSC2-encoded proteins modulate cell function via the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling cascade, and are key factors in the regulation of cell growth and proliferation. The mTOR pathway provides an intersection for an intricate network of protein cascades that respond to cellular nutrition, energy levels, and growth factor stimulation. In the brain, TSC1 and TSC2 have been implicated in cell body size, dendritic arborization, axonal outgrowth and targeting, neuronal migration, cortical lamination, and spine formation. The mTOR pathway represents a logical candidate for drug targeting, because mTOR regulates multiple cellular functions that may contribute to epileptogenesis, including protein synthesis, cell growth and proliferation, and synaptic plasticity. Antagonism of the mTOR pathway with rapamycin and related compounds may provide new therapeutic options for TSC patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f0/c6/kjped-54-241.PMC3174359.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4842480", "abstract": "[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate whether toe grip strength and muscle activities are affected by the ankle angle in the horizontal plane in the sitting upright and standing positions. [Subjects] The subjects were 16 healthy young women. [Methods] We measured toe grip strength and the maximum voluntary contraction activities of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, anterior tibialis, and medial head of the gastrocnemius. In addition, we calculated the percent integrated electromyography during foot gripping in 3 different ankle joint positions between the long axis of the foot and the line of progression on the horizontal plane, namely 10° of internal rotation, 0°, and 10° of external rotation. [Results] Two-way analysis of variance revealed significant differences. A significant main effect was observed in the measurement conditions for the percent integrated electromyography of the rectus femoris muscle and long head of the biceps femoris. However, two-way analysis of variance did not reveal any significant difference, and a significant main effect was not observed in toe grip strength. [Conclusion] These findings suggest that exerted toe grip strength is only slightly affected by the ankle angle in the horizontal plane in the sitting upright and standing positions. Therefore, the current measurement positions were shown to be optimal for measurement.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/f3/jpts-28-992.PMC4842480.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4614583", "abstract": "Introduction: The selective medication for pain control in many clinical situations is morphine but its complications prevent its widespread use. Ketamine has been introduced as an alternative for morphine in some studies. However, the efficacy of its solitary use has not yet been evaluated. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of ketamine alone in relieving pain in trauma patients referring to an emergency unit.  Methods:  In this double-blind clinical trial, patients with long bone fractures were randomly divided into two groups of treatment with intravenous (IV) morphine at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg and treatment with IV ketamine at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg. Pain severity of the patients was recorded before and 10 minutes after injection based on numeric rating scale. The means in the two groups were compared using independent t-test. Then the Kaplan-Meier curve and log rank analysis were used to evaluate the success of treatment.  Results:  126 patients were included in this study. The mean ages of the patients in the morphine and ketamine groups were 33.6±14.3 and 35.1±13.5 years, respectively (P=0.54). After therapeutic intervention, the pain severity significantly decreased in ketamine (2.7±1.8; P<0.0001) and morphine (2.4±1.5; P<0.0001) groups, with a similar effect of both medications on alleviating pain (P=0.28). The success rate of the treatment at 10-minute interval in groups receiving ketamine and morphine were 59 (93.65", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a6/5a/emerg-2-077.PMC4614583.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4174972", "abstract": "Dermatosis neglecta is a condition secondary to lack of cleanliness, characterized by the formation of hyperkeratotic plaques located in a particular region of the body, usually due to a disability, and it is considered a diagnostic challenge because it can mimic other entities. We present the case of an 18-year-old woman with a 2-month history of progressive brown verrucous plaque in her face. Our first impression was seborrheic dermatitis and she was treated with facial cleanser soap and topic hydrocortisone 1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/48/cde-0006-0194.PMC4174972.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4926308", "abstract": "Introduction Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma (PLGA) has been known as a comparatively less aggressive malignant tumor that predominantly occurs in the minor salivary glands. It has presented as a painless, slow growing tumor in the oral cavity. It has been reported to occur rarely in the palate and the prognosis of this lesion is far better than adenocarcinoma as the regional metastasis would be very minimal. A clear difference between the biologic behaviors of adenocarcinoma and PLGA has been reported in literature. Case Presentation A 63-year-old female reported at our institute with a swelling in relation to her upper left back region of her jaw for three months, gradual in onset and associated with pain. After clinical and radiological examination, the differential diagnosis were consolidated abscess or minor salivary gland tumor. An incisional biopsy was done and the lesion was diagnosed as PLGA. The lesion was treated by wide excision and reconstruction with immediate obturator. The post-operative follow up showed no evidence of recurrence and the healing was satisfactory. Conclusions The site of predilection of PLGA is more in favor of palate (49 - 77.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/3b/ijcp-09-01-3447.PMC4926308.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4063179", "abstract": " Background. The sensomotor insole (SMI) has clinically been shown to be successful in treating an intoeing gait. We investigated the biomechanical effect of SMI on a pediatric intoeing gait by using three-dimensional gait analysis. Methods. Six patients with congenital clubfeet and four patients with idiopathic intoeing gait were included. There were five boys and five girls with the average age at testing of 5.6 years. The torsional profile of the lower limb was assessed clinically. Three-dimensional gait analysis was performed in the same shoes with and without SMI. Results. All clubfeet patients exhibited metatarsal adductus, while excessive femoral anteversion and/or internal tibial torsion was found in patients with idiopathic intoeing gait. SMI showed significant decreased internal rotation of the proximal femur in terminal swing phase and loading response phase. The internal rotation of the tibia was significantly smaller in mid stance phase and terminal stance phase by SMI. In addition, SMI significantly increased the walking speed and the step length. Conclusions. SMI improved abnormal gait patterns of pediatric intoeing gait by decreasing femoral internal rotation through the end of the swing phase and the beginning of the stance phase and by decreasing tibial internal rotation during the stance phase.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7f/d7/PMC4063179.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3088283", "abstract": "To understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate the biology of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) it is necessary to study how they behave in vivo in their natural environment. It is particularly important to study the roles and interactions of the different proteins involved in pluripotency and to use this knowledge for therapeutic purposes. The recent description of key pluripotency factors like Oct4 and Nanog in non-mammalian species has introduced other animal models, such as chicken, Xenopus, zebrafish and medaka, to the study of pluripotency in vivo. These animal models complement the mouse model and have provided new insights into the evolution of Oct4 and Nanog and their different functions during embryonic development. Furthermore, other pluripotency factors previously identified in teleost fish such as Klf4, STAT3, Sox2, telomerase and Tcf3 can now be studied in the context of a functional pluripotency network. The many experimental advantages of fish will fuel rapid analysis of the roles of pluripotency factors in fish embryonic development and the identification of new molecules and mechanisms governing pluripotency.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cc/c5/ijbsv07p0410.PMC3088283.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2963494", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To estimate the rates of prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment of impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A representative sample of the U.S. population (the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey [NHANES]) from 2005–2006 including 1,547 nondiabetic adults (>18 years of age) without a history of myocardial infarction was assessed to determine the proportion of adults who met the criteria for IFG/IGT, and the proportion of IFG/IGT subjects who: 1) reported receiving a diagnosis from their physicians; 2) were prescribed lifestyle modification or an antihyperglycemic agent; and 3) were currently on therapy. We used multivariable regression analysis to identify predictors of diagnosis and treatment. RESULTS Of the 1,547 subjects, 34.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/76/0a/zdc2355.PMC2963494.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3214798", "abstract": "Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's Disease (AD) are severe neurodegenerative disorders, with no drugs that are currently approved to prevent the neuronal cell loss characteristic in brains of patients suffering from PD and AD and all drug treatment are synptomactic. Due to the complex pathophysiology, including a cascade of neurotoxic molecular events that results in neuronal death and predisposition to depression and eventual dementia and etiology of these disorders, an innovative approach towards neuroprotection or neurorestoration (neurorescue) may be the development and use of multifunctional pharmaceuticals. Such drugs target an array of pathological pathways, each of which is believed to contribute to the cascades that ultimately lead to neuronal cell death. In this short review, we discuss examples of novel multifunctional ligands that may have potential as neuroprotective-neurorestorative therapeutics in PD and AD. The compounds discussed originate from synthetic chemistry as well as from natural sources.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/57/en-19-1.PMC3214798.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2664281", "abstract": "PURPOSE To compare hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy and pure laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy techniques in live donor nephrectomy. METHODS In this retrospective study, we included all patients submitted to hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy and pure laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy between May 2002 and December 2007. The operative data and post-operative courses were reviewed. Information was collected on the operative time, warm ischemia time, estimated blood loss, intra-operative complications, time to first oral intake, length of hospital stay, and post-operative complications. The data were analyzed using Student’s t –tests and Fisher exact tests as appropriate, with statistical significance defined as p < 0.05. RESULTS The means of the operative duration, warm ischemia time and intra-operative bleeding were 83 min, 3.6 min and 130.9 cc, respectively, for hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy, and 78.4 min, 2.5 min and 98.9 cc, respectively, for pure laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy (p=0.29, p<0.0001 and p=0.08, respectively). Intra-operative complications occurred in 6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/be/82/PMC2664281.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4313057", "abstract": "Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus. This study aimed to observe the alleviation of the ethanol extract of Dendrobium chrysotoxum Lindl. (DC), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, on DR and its engaged mechanism. After DC (30 or 300 mg/kg) was orally administrated, the breakdown of blood retinal barrier (BRB) in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic rats was attenuated by DC. Decreased retinal mRNA expression of tight junction proteins (including occludin and claudin-1) in diabetic rats was also reversed by DC. Western blot analysis and retinal immunofluorescence staining results further confirmed that DC reversed the decreased expression of occludin and claudin-1 proteins in diabetic rats. DC reduced the increased retinal mRNA expressions of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin- (IL-) 6, and IL-1β in diabetic rats. In addition, DC alleviated the increased  1 and phosphorylated p65, IκB, and IκB kinase (IKK) in diabetic rats. DC also reduced the increased serum levels of TNFα, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-6, IL-1β, IL-8, IL-12, IL-2, IL-3, and IL-10 in diabetic rats. Therefore, DC can alleviate DR by inhibiting retinal inflammation and preventing the decrease of tight junction proteins, such as occludin and claudin-1.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/87/PMC4313057.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3042610", "abstract": "Glacier ice worms, Mesenchytraeus solifugus and related species, are the largest glacially obligate metazoans. As one component of cold temperature adaptation, ice worms maintain atypically high energy levels in an apparent mechanism to offset cold temperature-induced lethargy and death. To explore this observation at a mechanistic level, we considered the putative contribution of 5′ adenosine monophosphate deaminase (AMPD), a key regulator of energy metabolism in eukaryotes. We cloned cDNAs encoding ice worm AMPD, generating a fragment encoding 543 amino acids that included a short N-terminal region and complete C-terminal catalytic domain. The predicted ice worm AMPD amino acid sequence displayed conservation with homologues from other mesophilic eukaryotes with notable exceptions. In particular, an ice worm-specific K188E substitution proximal to the AMP binding site likely alters the architecture of the active site and negatively affects the enzyme's activity. Paradoxically, this would contribute to elevated intracellular ATP levels, which appears to be a signature of cold adapted taxa.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/24/31/PMC3042610.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5240314", "abstract": "In 1960s, toxic heart failure due to cobalt poisoning was firstly reported from Canadian industrial worker. Following development of bearing materials in hip arthroplasties, using cobalt-chrome alloy in bearing surface, there were rarely reported of systemic affect toxic cobaltism include toxic heart failure due to articulation wear in Western countries. It could be happened more easily by third body wear from ceramic particle especially revision total hip replacement (THR) surgery using cobalt-chrome alloy following ceramic articulation breakage which index surgery performed by ceramic on ceramic bearing. In Korea, due to many surgeons prefer ceramic on ceramic bearing in THR compared to Western countries, it might be more important issue within a time. However in our knowledge, there was no previous report about cobalt poisoning heart failure in Korea. It is still very rare and hard to diagnose cobalt intoxication heart failure after THR, so we report a case of fatal heart failure caused by cobalt intoxication after revision THR in 53-year old man who successfully underwent re-revision THR.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/65/hp-28-259.PMC5240314.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3712586", "abstract": "Background: In order to improve the quality of education in universities of medical sciences (UMS), and because of the key role of education development centers (EDCs), an accreditation scheme was developed to evaluate their performance. Method: A group of experts in the medical education field was selected based on pre-defined criteria by EDC of Ministry of Health and Medical education. The team, worked intensively for 6 months to develop a list of essential standards to assess the performance of EDCs. Having checked for the content validity of standards, clear and measurable indicators were created via consensus. Then, required information were collected from UMS EDCs; the first round of accreditation was carried out just to check the acceptability of this scheme, and make force universities to prepare themselves for the next factual round of accreditation. Results: Five standards domains were developed as the conceptual framework for defining main categories of indicators. This included: governing and leadership, educational planning, faculty development, assessment and examination and research in education. Nearly all of UMS filled all required data forms precisely with minimum confusion which shows the practicality of this accreditation scheme. Conclusion: It seems that the UMS have enough interest to provide required information for this accreditation scheme. However, in order to receive promising results, most of universities have to work intensively in order to prepare minimum levels in all required standards. However, it seems that in long term, implementation of a valid accreditation scheme plays an important role in improvement of the quality of medical education around the country.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/35/ba/ijph-42-134.PMC3712586.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3914392", "abstract": " Background. Vinorelbine (VRB) and capecitabine (CAPE) are demonstrated to be active in pretreated metastatic breast cancer patients. Different studies have demonstrated that the metronomic treatment is active with an acceptable toxicity profile. We designed a Phases I-II study to define the MTD of oral metronomic, VRB, and CAPE. Patients and Methods. Phase I: fixed dose of CAPE was 500 mg thrice a day, continuously. Level I of VRB was 20 mg/tot thrice a week for 3 weeks (1 cycle). Subsequent levels were 30 mg/tot and 40 mg/tot (Level III), respectively, if no Grades 3-4 toxicity were observed in the previous level. Phase II: further 32 patients received the MTD of VRB plus CAPE for a total of 187 cycles to confirm toxicity profile. Results. 12 patients were enrolled in Phase I and 22 in Phase II. Phase I: the MTD of VRB was 40 mg. Phase II: 187 cycles were delivered, observing 5.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ca/84/PMC3914392.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5424658", "abstract": "Laugier-Hunziker syndrome (LHS) is a rare condition characterized by acquired hyperpigmentation involving the lips, oral mucosa, acral surfaces, nails and perineum. While patients with LHS may manifest pigmentation in all of the aforementioned areas, most present with pigmentation localized to only a few of these anatomical sites. We herein report a patient exhibiting the characteristic pigment distribution pattern associated with LHS. Since LHS is a diagnosis based on exclusion, we discuss the differential diagnosis of mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation. Due to the benign nature of the disease, it is critical to differentiate this disorder from conditions with similar mucocutaneous pigmentary changes with somatic abnormalities that require medical management. We also explore potential mechanisms that may explain the pathogenesis of LHS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/84/PMC5424658.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4345670", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Infected thoracic aortic aneurysm (ITAA) is a relatively rare disease. The diagnosis of ITAA is generally made comprehensively based on symptoms, laboratory data and CT findings. Several series of blood cultures are mandatory to first detect the infecting organism. ITAA is usually suspected as a result of the CT findings. A short-interval CT re-examination is essential to confirm the correct diagnosis. A CT scan commonly demonstrates a rapid enlargement of the aneurismal lumen and soft tissue mass surrounding the aorta. One of the characteristics of ITAA is the presence of several nodular or saccular aneurysms localized in different aortic portions. Patients with ITAA are associated with high incidences of aneurismal rupture due to the aneurysm’s abrupt growth. Therefore, ITAAs are associated with both high morbidities and mortalities. The major concerns regarding surgical treatment for ITAA are the control of infection, the resection of whole infected tissue, grafting via an aseptic route and the prevention of recrudescent infection. Therefore, effectual antibiotic therapy is mandatory as the first choice of therapy. Ideally surgical intervention is indicated in patients with a controlled infection. It is essential to excise the whole infected aneurysm and to reconstruct in-situ grafting via an aseptic route. However, urgent surgery is often required in patients with an uncontrolled infection because they have an impending aneurismal rupture. In such cases, an extra-anatomical bypass without cardiopulmonary bypass is applicable. Surgical strategies should therefore be determined on a case-by-case basis because these patients present various clinical courses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/77/cb/2186-3326-75-0161.PMC4345670.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4464014", "abstract": "Serotonin syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening adverse drug reaction resulting from the use or overuse of serotonergic medications alone or in combination. Mild symptoms, overlapping features with similar conditions and clinician lack of awareness are the major reasons for an often missed diagnosis. Not surprisingly, this condition is significantly underreported as a potential complication of endoscopy if serotonergic medications are used periprocedurally for sedation and analgesia. Here we report the case of a patient with relapsed chronic hepatitis C on antidepressant medications who developed signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome after a percutaneous liver biopsy. Review of the patient's medication list suggested a possible interaction between her home antidepressants and the post-procedure use of fentanyl for abdominal pain. The patient required monitoring in the medical intensive care unit and stabilized after the administration of benzodiazepines and temporary discontinuation of her home medications. We propose that clinicians need to be aware of the increased risk of serotonin syndrome in the outpatient endoscopy setting, particularly with the wider use of serotonergic antidepressants now available and the repeated number of liver biopsies being performed for management of patients with chronic liver disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/0a/crg-0009-0132.PMC4464014.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4795583", "abstract": "Background and purpose Autonomic dysfunction is common after stroke, which is correlated with unfavorable outcome. Phase-rectified signal averaging is a newly developed technique for assessing cardiac autonomic function, by detecting sympathetic and vagal nerve activity separately through calculating acceleration capacity (AC) and deceleration capacity (DC) of heart rate. In this study, we used this technique for the first time to investigate the cardiac autonomic function of patients with acute hemispheric ischemic stroke. Methods A 24-hour Holter monitoring was performed in 63 patients with first-ever acute ischemic stroke in hemisphere and sinus rhythm, as well as in 50 controls with high risk of stroke. DC, AC, heart rate variability parameters, standard deviation of all normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN), and square root of the mean of the sum of the squares of differences between adjacent normal-to-normal intervals (RMSSD) were calculated. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) was used to assess the severity of stroke. We analyzed the changes of DC, AC, SDNN, and RMSSD and also studied the correlations between these parameters and NIHSS scores. Results The R–R (R wave to R wave on electrocardiogram) intervals, DC, AC, and SDNN in the cerebral infarction group were lower than those in controls (P=0.003, P=0.002, P=0.006, and P=0.043), but the difference of RMSSD and the D-value and ratio between absolute value of AC (|AC|) and DC were not statistically significant compared with those in controls. The DC of the infarction group was significantly correlated with |AC|, SDNN, and RMSSD (r=0.857, r=0.619, and r=0.358; P=0.000, P=0.000, and P=0.004). Correlation analysis also showed that DC, |AC|, and SDNN were negatively correlated with NIHSS scores (r=−0.279, r=−0.266, and r=−0.319; P=0.027, P=0.035, and P=0.011). Conclusion Both DC and AC of heart rate decreased in patients with hemispheric infarction, reflecting a decrease in both vagal and sympathetic modulation. Both DC and AC were correlated with the severity of stroke.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/20/cia-11-293.PMC4795583.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4231156", "abstract": "Urinary catheterization is a common procedure, particularly among patients with neurogenic bladder secondary to spinal cord injury. Urethral catheterization is associated with the well-recognized complications of catheter-associated urinary tract infections and limited genitourinary trauma. Unintentional ureteral cannulation represents a rare complication of urethral catheterization and has been previously described in only eight cases within the literature. We describe two cases of aberrant ureteral cannulation involving two patients with quadriplegia. These cases along with prior reports identify the spastic, insensate bladder and altered pelvic sensorium found in upper motor neuron syndromes as major risk factors for ureteral cannulation with a urinary catheter.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/1d/kju-55-768.PMC4231156.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3195506", "abstract": " Objectives. Mechanisms influencing the course of physical and mental functioning after an atherosclerotic event are unclear. We examined effects of white matter lesion (WML) activity on changes in functioning in patients with symptomatic atherosclerotic disease.  Methods. In 486 patients (58 ± 9 years) of the Second Manifestations of ARTerial disease-Magnetic Resonance (SMART-MR) study, volumetric WML measurements on 1.5T MRI were performed at baseline and 3.9 ± 0.4 years followup. Functioning was assessed with the modified Short-Form 12 (SF-12) questionnaire. Associations of WML progression with changes in functioning were adjusted for age, sex, and vascular risk factors.  Results. Physical functioning (baseline: 44, 10th–90th percentile 29–55) improved, whereas mental functioning (baseline: 51, 10th–90th percentile 32–60) declined during followup. WML progression (highest quartile versus rest) contributed to a stronger decline in mental functioning (B = −1.76, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/b0/PMC3195506.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4230007", "abstract": "Inpatient withdrawal treatment (detoxification) is common in opioid dependence, although dropout against medical advice often limits its outcome. This study aimed to assess baseline predictors of dropout from inpatient opioid detoxification with buprenorphine, including age, gender, current substance use, and type of postdetoxification planning. A retrospective hospital chart review was carried out for inpatient standard opioid detoxifications using buprenorphine taper, in a detoxification ward in Malmö, Sweden (N = 122). Thirty-four percent of patients (n = 42) dropped out against medical advice. In multivariate logistic regression, dropout was significantly associated with younger age (OR 0.93 [0.89–0.97]) and negatively predicted by inpatient postdetoxification plan (OR 0.41 [0.18–0.94]), thus favouring an inpatient plan as opposed to outpatient treatment while residing at home. Dropout was unrelated to baseline urine toxicology. In opioid detoxification, patients may benefit from a higher degree of postdetoxification planning, including transition to residential treatment, in order to increase the likelihood of a successful detoxification and treatment entry. Young opioid-dependent patients may need particular attention in the planning of detoxification.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b9/18/PMC4230007.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4931255", "abstract": "Background: Human rhinoviruses (HRVs) are divided into three genetic species: HRV-A, HRV-B, and HRV-C. The association of different HRV species with asthma in children in China has not yet been evaluated. This preliminary study aimed to assess the associations between different HRV species, particularly HRV-C, and asthma in young children in China. Methods: A total of 702 nasopharyngeal aspirates were obtained from 155 children with asthma (asthma group), 461 children with acute respiratory infection (ARI) without asthma (nonasthma ARI group), and 86 children from the control group. Semi-nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect HRVs, and PCR products were sequenced for species identification. Epidemiological characteristics of HRV-positive cases were analyzed. Results: HRVs were the most common pathogen (15.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ee/eb/CMJ-129-1513.PMC4931255.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4005532", "abstract": "Dendritic cells (DCs) are antigen (Ag)-presenting cells that activate and stimulate effective immune responses by T cells, but can also act as negative regulators of these responses and thus play important roles in immune regulation. Pro-angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been shown to cause defective DC differentiation and maturation. Previous studies have demonstrated that the addition of VEGF to DC cultures renders these cells weak stimulators of Ag-specific T cells due to the inhibitory effects mediated by VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1) and/or VEGFR2 signalling. As the enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) is recognised as an important negative regulator of immune responses, this study aimed to investigate whether VEGF affects the expression of IDO by DCs and whether VEGF-matured DCs acquire a suppressor phenotype. Our results are the first to demonstrate that VEGF increases the expression and activity of IDO in DCs, which has a suppressive effect on Ag-specific and mitogen-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation. These mechanisms have broad implications for the study of immunological responses and tolerance under conditions as diverse as cancer, graft rejection and autoimmunity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f2/73/0074-0276-mioc-109-01-00070.PMC4005532.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2629957", "abstract": "Purpose To report a case of bilateral ophthalmic artery occlusion in rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis. Methods Reviewed clinical charts, photographs, and fluorescein angiography. Results An 89-year-old man with poorly controlled diabetes developed sudden bilateral ptosis, complete ophthalmoplegia of the right eye, and superior rectus palsy of the left eye. Brain and orbit magnetic resonance imaging showed midbrain infarction and mild diffuse sinusitis. On the 2nd day of hospitalization, sudden visual loss and light reflex loss developed. There were retinal whitening, absence of retinal arterial filling, and a total lack of choroidal perfusion on fluorescein angiography of the right eye. The left eye showed a cherry red spot in the retina and the absence of retinal arterial filling and partial choroidal perfusion on fluorescein angiography. On rhinologic examination, mucormyosis was noticed. Despite treatment, visual acuity and light reflex did not recover and he died 4 days after admission. Conclusions Bilateral ophthalmic artery occlusion can occur in rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/31/a6/kjo-22-66.PMC2629957.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4622443", "abstract": "The 25th anniversary of the Antibody Engineering     Therapeutics Conference, the Annual Meeting of The Antibody Society, will be held in Huntington Beach, CA, December 7–11, 2014. Organized by IBC Life Sciences, the event will celebrate past successes, educate participants on current activities and offer a vision of future progress in the field. Keynote addresses will be given by academic and industry experts Douglas Lauffenburger (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), Ira Pastan (National Cancer Institute), James Wells (University of California, San Francisco), Ian Tomlinson (GlaxoSmithKline) and Anthony Rees (Rees Consulting AB and Emeritus Professor, University of Bath). These speakers will provide updates of their work, placed in the context of the substantial growth of the industry over the past 25 years.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/47/b6/kmab-06-05-971627.PMC4622443.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3575175", "abstract": "Background: Pin site infection is the most common and significant complication of external fixation. In this work, the efficacy of pins coated with titanium dioxide (TiO2) for inhibition of infection was compared with that of stainless steel control pins in an in vivo study. Methods: Pins contaminated with an identifiable Staphylococcus aureus strain were inserted into femoral bone in a rat model and exposed to ultraviolet A light for 30 minutes. On day 14, the animals were sacrificed and the bone and soft tissue around the pin were retrieved. The clinical findings and histological findings were evaluated in 60 samples. Results: Clinical signs of infection were present in 76.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a0/03/PMC3575175.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3798202", "abstract": "Purpose To describe the different corneal pathologies and determine the prevalence of corneal blindness amongst children aged 0–15 years, seen at the ophthalmology unit of a tertiary hospital in Cameroon. Patients and methods The medical records of all patients who presented to the Ophthalmic Unit between 2002 and 2010 were reviewed, retrospectively. The records of children aged 0–15 years, presenting with corneal pathologies, were further reviewed. Data collected included age, sex, past medical history, initial visual acuity, type of corneal lesion, and visual acuity at last follow-up. Results Of the 7,922 children seen over the study period, 168 had corneal pathologies: a prevalence of 2.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/46/opth-7-2007.PMC3798202.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5028079", "abstract": "Background In addition to lung involvement, several other diseases and syndromes coexist in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Our purpose was to investigate the prevalence of idiopathic arterial hypertension (IAH), ischemic heart disease, heart failure, peripheral vascular disease (PVD), diabetes, osteoporosis, and anxious depressive syndrome in a clinical setting of COPD outpatients whose phenotypes (predominant airway disease and predominant emphysema) and severity (mild and severe diseases) were determined by clinical and functional parameters. Methods A total of 412 outpatients with COPD were assigned either a predominant airway disease or a predominant emphysema phenotype of mild or severe degree according to predictive models based on pulmonary functions (forced expiratory volume in 1 second/vital capacity; total lung capacity ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b7/06/copd-11-2229.PMC5028079.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3791626", "abstract": "Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a known complication of using ovulation induction drugs in assisted reproductive techniques. Its incidence and severity vary. Tuberculosis is a very common disease in the developing world, and ascites is one of its sequelae. The newer aids in diagnosing tuberculosis include measuring levels of Adenosine DeAminase (ADA) in the third-space fluids or serum. This case report is from a tertiary care center, reflecting how tubercular ascites simulated OHSS, and the right diagnosis was made and managed. This is being presented due to its rarity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a8/b8/PMC3791626.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2627275", "abstract": "Objective To determine the publication rate of abstracts presented by Korean investigators at national and international radiological meetings, and to identify predictive factors of publication. Materials and Methods Abstracts presented at the annual meetings of the Korean Radiological Society (KRS), and abstracts presented by Korean investigators at the annual meetings of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) and European Congress of Radiology (ECR) from 2001 to 2002 were searched for subsequent publication, using PubMed and the Korean Medical Database. The following variables were evaluated. 1) The overall publication rate; 2) the publication rates according to the radiological subspecialty, presentation type (oral or poster), sample size (≤ 20, 21-50, or > 50), study design (prospective or retrospective), statistical analysis (present or absent), and study outcome (positive or negative); 3) the time to publication; 4) the journal where the study was published; 5) consistency between the abstract and the final publication. Results Of 1,097 abstracts, 301 (27.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/69/17/kjr-9-303.PMC2627275.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3663302", "abstract": "Objective Reliable non-invasive methods for detection of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection are required to investigate the incidence, transmission, and clearance of infection in childhood. Detecting bacterial antigens in stool offer an alternative noninvasive diagnostic test. However its accuracy in developing countries is not well established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of stool antigen test for H pylori in Iranian children with recurrent abdominal pain necessitating endoscopy. Methods One hundred three children enrolled in this study. Endoscopy and biopsy was done on all patients providing a criterion standard for validation of the H. pylori stool antigen (HpSA) tests. The presence of H. pylori organisms in stool was determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using a commercially available polyclonal antibody. HpSA sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios were determined with reference to the results of cultures of gastric biopsy. Findings Of the 103 children tested 41 (39.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/88/IJPD-23-138.PMC3663302.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5146785", "abstract": "Background: High expressions of galectin-3 were identified recently in the end stage of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, which suggested that immune reactivity and inflammatory mechanisms might play an important role in the pathogenesis of ALS. The purpose of this study was to investigate plasma galectin-3 levels in different groups and stages of ALS patients and the association with related clinical characteristics. Methods: A total of 51 patients with ALS and 60 normal controls (NCs) were recruited in this study. Plasma galectin-3 levels were determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Patients with ALS were divided into several groups according to their clinical characteristics: gender, type of disease onset, duration of disease, and clinical conditions of disease. Statistical analyses of the differences of galectin-3 levels between groups and the association with the clinical characteristics of disease were performed. Results: As compared with the NCs (201.64 [22.35–401.63] ng/ml), plasma galectin-3 levels were significantly elevated in the patients with duration >12 months (341.17 [69.12–859.22] ng/ml, P < 0.05), and the patients with limb onset of disease (254.14 [69.12–859.22] ng/ml, P < 0.05); however, no difference was found in the patients with duration ≤12 months (250.62 [109.77–334.92] ng/ml, P > 0.05), and the patients with bulbar onset of disease (251.79 [109.20–404.76] ng/ml, P > 0.05). In addition, galectin-3 levels were significantly increased in the female patients (263.27 [123.32–859.22] ng/ml, P < 0.05) while no difference was found in the male patients (220.39 [69.12–748.73] ng/ml, P > 0.05). The further statistical analyses showed that plasma galectin-3 levels were positively correlated with the duration of disease (r = 0.293, P = 0.037). Conclusions: Plasma galectin-3 levels were significantly increased in ALS patients with limb onset of disease, especially in ALS female patients, and positively correlated with the duration of disease, which suggested that plasma galectin-3 might be an interesting and useful factor associated with ALS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/12/38/CMJ-129-2797.PMC5146785.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4339708", "abstract": "The complete genome sequence of soybean allows an unprecedented opportunity for the discovery of the genes controlling important traits. In particular, the potential functions of regulatory genes are a priority for analysis. The basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) family of transcription factors is known to be involved in controlling a wide range of systems critical for crop adaptation and quality, including photosynthesis, light signalling, pigment biosynthesis, and seed pod development. Using a hidden Markov model search algorithm, 319 genes with basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor domains were identified within the soybean genome sequence. These were classified with respect to their predicted DNA binding potential, intron/exon structure, and the phylogeny of the bHLH domain. Evidence is presented that the vast majority (281) of these 319 soybean bHLH genes are expressed at the mRNA level. Of these soybean bHLH genes, 67", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/f9/PMC4339708.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4016894", "abstract": " Objective. This study aimed to assess the interval changes of thyroid colloid cysts (TCCs) by performing long-term ultrasound (US) follow-up examinations. Methods. From 2007 to 2008, 437 patients underwent a lobectomy for the treatment of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. Among them, 268 patients underwent 4 or more postoperative US follow-ups after surgery. This study investigated the prevalence and interval changes of TCCs ≥3 mm by using US follow-ups. Results. Among 268 patients, 35 (13.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/1a/PMC4016894.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4429256", "abstract": "Ileosigmoid knotting (ISK) is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction in which loops of ileum and sigmoid colon wrap around each other. It is very uncommon in western world when compared with the African and Asian region. It is rapidly a progressive, fatal disease. Early diagnosis and intervention is the key of better outcome. We are reporting a case of 51-year-old male who presented with shock within 24 h of onset of symptoms. Exploratory laparotomy revealed ISK causing gangrene of ileum and sigmoid colon. In view of haemodynamic unstability, end ileostomy was done after excising gangrenous segments. The patient expired after 2 weeks due to complications of short bowl syndrome. We are also tabulating all cases of ISK reported in the literature till date.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e7/c9/rjv051.PMC4429256.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4771854", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Concurrent hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and intratympanic steroid application (ITS) are beneficial as salvage therapy for therapy‐refractory sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). The findings encourage further research on the treatment of noise‐induced and idiopathic SSNHL with concurrent use of HBOT and ITS respecting also patients with long‐term or therapy‐refractory SSNHL.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/ed/CCR3-4-287.PMC4771854.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897389", "abstract": " Aim. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of impacted maxillary canines in a Kosovar population. Materials and Methods. The study consisted of a retrospective analysis of the records of 8101 patients treated in the University Dentistry Clinical Center of Kosovo between August 2001 and February 2004. The chi-squared test was used to examine potential differences in the distribution of impacted maxillary canines stratified by gender, age, location (left or right), and position. P < 0.05 was accepted as statistically significant. Results. It was found that the incidence of impacted maxillary canines was 1.62", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/87/16/PMC4897389.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4455853", "abstract": "Objective Parents with epilepsy can be concerned about the consequences of epilepsy affecting their children. The aim of this paper is to describe aspects of what it means being a parent having epilepsy, focusing the parents’ perspectives and their thoughts on having children. Methods Fourteen adults aged 18–35 years with epilepsy and subjective memory decline took part in focus-group interviews. The interviews were conducted according to a semi-structured guideline. Material containing aspects of parenthood was extracted from the original interviews and a secondary analysis was done according to a content-analysis guideline. Interviews with two parents for the Swedish book Leva med epilepsi [To live with epilepsy] by AM Landtblom (Stockholm: Bilda ide; 2009) were analyzed according to the same method. Results Four themes emerged: (1) a persistent feeling of insecurity, since a seizure can occur at any time and the child could be hurt; (2) a feeling of inadequacy – of not being able to take full responsibility for one’s child; (3) acknowledgment that one’s children are forced to take more responsibility than other children do; and (4) a feeling of guilt – of not being able to fulfill one’s expectations of being the parent one would like to be. Conclusion The parents with epilepsy are deeply concerned about how epilepsy affects the lives of their children. These parents are always aware that a seizure may occur and reflect on how this can affect their child. They try to foresee possible dangerous situations and prevent them. These parents were sad that they could not always take full responsibility for their child and could not live up to their own expectations of parenthood. Supportive programs may be of importance since fear for the safety of the child increases the psychosocial burden of epilepsy. There were also a few parents who did not acknowledge the safety issue of their child – the authors believe that it is important to identify these parents and provide extra information and support to them.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1d/a4/ndt-11-1291.PMC4455853.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3376791", "abstract": "A community outbreak of gastroenteritis in Australia during 2007–2009 was caused by ingestion of playground sand contaminated with Salmonella enterica Paratyphi B, variant Java. The bacterium was also isolated from local wildlife. Findings support consideration of nonfood sources during salmonellosis outbreak investigations and indicate transmission through the animal–human interface.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/32/PMC3376791.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3970605", "abstract": "Heteroxenic and monoxenic trypanosomatids were screened for the presence of actin using a mouse polyclonal antibody produced against the entire sequence of the Trypanosoma cruzi actin gene, encoding a 41.9 kDa protein. Western blot analysis showed that this antibody reacted with a polypeptide of approximately 42 kDa in the whole-cell lysates of parasites targeting mammals (T. cruzi, Trypanosoma brucei and Leishmania major), insects (Angomonas deanei, Crithidia fasciculata, Herpetomonas samuelpessoai and Strigomonas culicis) and plants (Phytomonas serpens). A single polypeptide of approximately 42 kDa was detected in the whole-cell lysates of T. cruzi cultured epimastigotes, metacyclic trypomastigotes and amastigotes at similar protein expression levels. Confocal microscopy showed that actin was expressed throughout the cytoplasm of all the tested trypanosomatids. These data demonstrate that actin expression is widespread in trypanosomatids.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b2/85/0074-0276-mioc-108-05-631.PMC3970605.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3037266", "abstract": "The Medical School at Bristol University is noted for offering, and in some instances requiring, its students to work creatively with medical themes. Students, artists, educationalists and a web designer have worked to create an on-line exhibition of the resulting creative output. This can be viewed at www.outofourheads.net. This site is a themed repository of poetry, prose, drawings, paintings, cartoons, films, music, dance and rap. Most works come with commentaries that can be as illuminating as the works they describe. The site invites comment and welcomes new postings from anyone connected to medicine. As an alternative to the conventional pedagogical report, and in keeping with the subject matter, in this paper we tell the story of this unique educational enterprise through the narratives of four of its principle architects. The ‘Teacher's Tale’, the ‘Designer's Tale’, the ‘Curator's Tale’ and the ‘Artist's Tale’ offer different, personal, tellings of how the site came to be. Each tale contains hypertext links to notable works on the site some of which have become teaching resources within the institution. This paper is of relevance to anyone who seeks to explore and champion the human insights of this privileged community.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/df/MEO-15-5395.PMC3037266.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3430504", "abstract": "From the ancient times up to this date, it has been thought that religion and spirituality have important effects on human being's mental life. However, some psychologists and psychotherapists have ignored this role, and thus neglected to study the effects of applying religion and spirituality in psychotherapy. However, many psychologists and psychotherapists have recently studied the relationship between religion or spirituality and mental health; or used religious interventions in psychotherapies. Although different kinds of religious psychotherapies have been proposed, no comprehensive theory has been presented in this area. In this article a scientific, comprehensive and applied spiritual method of psychotherapy is suggested. Religious Cognitive- Emotional Therapy (RCET) is a new form of cognitive therapy that uses the basic religious beliefs and insights in psychotherapy. RCET is a new integration of cognitive, humanistic, and existential psychotherapies that takes into account religious beliefs and insights of the clients. RCET is an effective method of psychotherapy for the treatment of those who suffer from identity crisis, depression, and anxiety; and it can be developed to address other psychological disorders as well. Because RCET is a new approach, practically is needed to do further theoretical research in this area.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fb/04/IJPS-5-81.PMC3430504.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5375632", "abstract": "Purpose The proportion of the population, that is older, is growing at a faster rate than other age groups. Physical activity is important for older people because it assists in living independently. Participating in resistance training on a regular basis (twice weekly) is recommended for older people; yet, fewer than 15", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/af/cia-12-585.PMC5375632.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4748251", "abstract": "Serious symptoms caused by intra-cystic bleeding are very rare. We describe a case of a maxillary cyst presenting with mid-facial deformity in a Japanese woman. She underwent bilateral Caldwell–Luc procedure 21 years earlier and suffered left cheek trauma 4 years earlier. She presented soon after the trauma complaining of left mid-facial deformity, and computed tomography showed a trilocular cystic lesion in the left maxilla. We performed facial osteotomy concurrent with cyst enucleation with lateral rhinotomy. Serosanguineous fluid filled the cyst cavity just below the face; however, additional cyst cavities contained straw-coloured fluid. She showed no signs of recurrence at the end of a 20-month follow-up, and her postoperative appearance was excellent. Histopathological examination showed that all cyst walls were lined by ciliated columnar epithelium, which was consistent with surgical ciliated cyst. We consider that the increased intra-cystic pressure caused by traumatic haemorrhage induced expansion of the pre-existing surgical ciliated cyst.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f2/3e/rjw013.PMC4748251.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3447290", "abstract": "We analyzed data from NCDCPH Georgia where samples from outpatients with influenza-like illness (ILI) and inpatients with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARI) are referred for testing on influenza virus using PCR analysis. During 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 influenza pandemics total number of the laboratory-confirmed influenza cases were 1286 with 33 deaths (all of them influenza type A) and 1203 (51.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4d/ec/PMC3447290.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5066016", "abstract": "Diagnosis of oral ulcerative lesions might be quite challenging. This narrative review article aims to introduce an updated decision tree for diagnosing oral ulcerative lesions on the basis of their diagnostic features. Various general search engines and specialized databases including PubMed, PubMed Central, Medline Plus, EBSCO, Science Direct, Scopus, Embase, and authenticated textbooks were used to find relevant topics by means of MeSH keywords such as “oral ulcer,” “stomatitis,” and “mouth diseases.” Thereafter, English-language articles published since 1983 to 2015 in both medical and dental journals including reviews, meta-analyses, original papers, and case reports were appraised. Upon compilation of the relevant data, oral ulcerative lesions were categorized into three major groups: acute, chronic, and recurrent ulcers and into five subgroups: solitary acute, multiple acute, solitary chronic, multiple chronic, and solitary/multiple recurrent, based on the number and duration of lesions. In total, 29 entities were organized in the form of a decision tree in order to help clinicians establish a logical diagnosis by stepwise progression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ff/73/PMC5066016.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3021739", "abstract": "Purpose Systemic chemotherapy is the only option for patients with unresectable/metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who are not candidates for local/regional treatment. However, the response to such treatment and survival are poor, especially in hepatitis B virus (HBV) endemic areas. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy and identify a subgroup of advanced HCC patients with favorable responses. Materials and Methods The medical records of all consecutive patients with unresectable/metastatic HCC who received cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy between January 2003 and October 2009 were reviewed. Time to progression (TTP) and overall survival (OS) were determined using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors for TTP and OS. Results Data for 46 patients were analyzed. First-line chemotherapies consisted of cisplatin-based combination treatment with doxorubicin, fluoropyrimidines and gemcitabine. The response rate for all patients was 4.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/08/6d/crt-42-203.PMC3021739.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4295029", "abstract": "The effect of UVA (315–400 nm) irradiation on Echinaceae purpureae interactions with free radicals was examined by the use of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The changes of antioxidant properties of E. purpureae with time of UV irradiation from 10 to 110 min (10 min steps) were determined. DPPH as the paramagnetic reference was used in this study. Changes of EPR signals of the reference after interactions with nonirradiated and UV-irradiated E. purpureae were detected. Interactions of the tested E. purpureae samples caused decrease of the EPR signal of DPPH as the result of its antioxidant properties. The decrease of the amplitude of EPR line of DPPH was lower for interactions with UV-irradiated E. purpureae. EPR examination confirmed antioxidant properties of E. purpureae. The weaker antioxidant properties of E. purpureae after UV irradiation were pointed out. E. purpureae should be storage in the dark. The tests bring to light usefulness of electron paramagnetic resonance with microwave frequency of 9.3 GHz (an X-band) in examination of storage conditions of pharmacological herbs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3f/00/PMC4295029.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4500872", "abstract": "Ovarian cancer during pregnancy is a rare event. Little is known about the treatment of this condition due to lack of prospective randomized trials and cohort studies. In this paper the authors reported a rare case of small cells ovarian cancer, diagnosed at 16 weeks of gestation, treated with conservative surgery at 18 weeks and chemotherapy. At week 38, the patient underwent caesarean section and delivered a healthy baby girl. Staging surgery was then carried out followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. Thus the findings from this case concluded that prognosis and quality of the patient’s life should be a priority, chemotherapy during the second trimester seems to be safe however, potential risks of this interventions still has to be considered.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b2/3f/cp-2015-2-727.PMC4500872.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3762961", "abstract": "Objective To evaluate the psychosocial impact of malocclusion, determine its relationship with the severity of malocclusion, and assess the influence of gender and social class on this relationship in adolescents. Methods A random sample of 627 Spanish adolescents aged 12 - 15 years underwent intraoral examinations by 3 calibrated examiners (intraexaminer and interexaminer kappa > 0.85) at their schools. Psychosocial impact was measured through a self-rated Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ). The severity of malocclusion was measured by the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). Gender and social class were also recorded. Results The total PIDAQ score and those of its 4 subscales, social impact, psychological impact, aesthetic concern, and dental self-confidence, presented significant differences (p ≤ 0.05 by analysis of variance) and linear relationships with the IOTN grades (p ≤ 0.05 by linear regression). Stepwise linear regression models showed that the IOTN dental health component was a predictive variable of the total and subscale PIDAQ scores. Neither gender nor social class was an independent predictive variable of this relationship, except the linear model for psychological impact, where gender was a predictive variable. The occlusal conditions responsible for higher PIDAQ scores were increased overjet, impeded eruption, tooth displacement, and increased overbite. Conclusions Malocclusion has a psychological impact in adolescents and this impact increases with the severity of malocclusion. Social class may not influence this association, but the psychological impact seems to be greater among girls.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/2d/kjod-43-193.PMC3762961.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2923780", "abstract": "Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) is a serious adverse transfusion reaction that is presented as acute hypoxemia and non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema, which develops during or within 6 hr of transfusion. Major pathogenesis of TRALI is known to be related with anti-HLA class I, anti-HLA class II, or anti-HNA in donor's plasma. However, anti-HLA or anti-HNA in recipient against transfused donor's leukocyte antigens also cause TRALI in minor pathogenesis and which comprises about 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/08/e4/jkms-25-1398.PMC2923780.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4499090", "abstract": "Background: Amelogenesis Imperfecta (AI) is a disorder of tooth development where there is an abnormal formation of enamel or the external layer of teeth. The aim of this study was to screen mutations in the four most important candidate genes, ENAM, KLK4, MMP20 and FAM83H responsible for amelogenesis imperfect Methods: Geneomic DNA was isolated from five Iranian families with 22 members affected with enamel malformations. The PCR amplifications were typically carried out for amplification the coding regions for AI patients and unaffected family members. The PCR products were subjected to direct sequencing. The pedigree analysis was performed using Cyrillic software. Results: One family had four affected members with autosomal dominant hypocalcified amelogenesis imperfecta (ADHPCAI); pedigree analysis revealed four consanguineous families with 18 patients with autosomal recessive hypoplastic amelogenesis imperfecta (ARHPAI). One non-synonymous single-nucleotide substitution, c.1150T>A, p. Ser 342Thr was identified in the FAM83H, which resulted in ADHCAI. Furthermore, different polymorphisms or unclassified variants were detected in MMP20, ENAM and KLK4. Conclusion: Our results are consistent with other studies and provide further evidence for pathogenic mutations of FAM83H gene. These findings suggest different loci and genes could be implicated in the pathogenesis of AI.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/46/63/PMC4499090.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5118029", "abstract": "The article draws primarily from the behavioral findings (mainly psychiatric and psychological observations) and points out the important relationships between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and time orientation. Specifically, the authors argue that there is a significant overlap between the symptoms of ADHD and Present Hedonism. Present Hedonism is defined by Zimbardo’s time perspective theory and assessed by Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory. Developmental data on Present Hedonism of males and females in the Czech population sample (N=2201) are also presented. The hypothesis of relationship between ADHD and Present Hedonism is mainly derived from the prevalence of addictive behavior (mainly excessive Internet use, alcohol abuse, craving for sweets, fatty foods, and fast foods), deficits in social learning, and increased aggressiveness both in ADHD and in the population scoring high on Present Hedonism in the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory. We conclude that Zimbardo’s time perspective offers both: 1) a potential diagnostic tool – the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory, particularly its Present Hedonism scale, and 2) a promising preventive and/or therapeutic approach by the Time Perspective Therapy. Time Perspective Therapy has so far been used mainly to treat past negative trauma (most notably, posttraumatic stress disorder); however, it also has value as a potential therapeutic tool for possible behavioral compensation of ADHD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/94/ndt-12-2963.PMC5118029.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4756893", "abstract": "Background: Motor dysfunction is common in stroke patients. Clinical electrophysiological studies suggest that transsynaptic degeneration occurred in the lower motor neurons, while pathological evidence is lacked. This study aimed to combine the electrophysiological and pathological results to prove the existence of transsynaptic degeneration in the motor system after stroke. Methods: Modified neurologic severity score, electrophysiological, and pathological assessments were evaluated in rats before middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), and at 24 hours, 7 days, and 14 days after MCAO. Paired and independent-sample t-tests were applied to assess the changes of electrophysiological and pathological data. Results: Compound motor action potential amplitude in the paretic side was significantly lower than the nonparetic side at both 24 hours (61.9 ± 10.4 vs. 66.6 ± 8.9, P < 0.05) and 7 days (60.9 ± 8.4 vs. 67.3 ± 9.6, P < 0.05) after MCAO. Motor unit number estimation of the paretic side was significantly less than the nonparetic side (379.0 ± 84.6 vs. 445.0 ± 89.5, P < 0.05) at 7 days after MCAO. Until 14 days after stroke, the pathological loss of motor neurons was detected. Motor neurons in 14-day MCAO group were significantly decreased, compared with control group (5.3 ± 0.7 vs. 7.3 ± 1.8, P < 0.05). Conclusions: Both electrophysiological and pathological studies showed transsynaptic degeneration after stroke. This study identified the asynchronization in changes of electrophysiology and pathology. The abnormal physiological changes and function impairment can be detected in the early stage and recovered quickly, while the pathological loss of motor neuron can be detected only in a later stage.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/f9/CMJ-128-2919.PMC4756893.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4123565", "abstract": "Previous studies had shown that elevated admission plasma glucose (APG) could increase mortality rate and serious complications of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), but whether fasting plasma glucose (FPG) had the same role remains controversial. In this retrospective study, 253 cases of AMI patients were divided into diabetic (n = 87) and nondiabetic group (n = 166). Our results showed that: compared with the nondiabetic patients, diabetic patients had higher APG, FPG, higher plasma triglyceride, higher rates of painless AMI (P < 0.01), non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and reinfraction (P < 0.05). They also had lower high density lipoprotein cholesterol and rate of malignant arrhythmia, but in-hospital mortality rate did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). While nondiabetic patients were subgrouped in terms of APG and FPG (cut points were 11.1 mmol/L and 7.0 mmol/L, resp.), the mortality rate had significant difference (P < 0.01), whereas glucose level lost significance in diabetic group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that FPG (OR: 2.014; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/18/2a/PMC4123565.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4522167", "abstract": "Invited for this issues cover are Dr. Célia Fonseca Guerra from the VU University of Amsterdam and her collaborators at the University of Girona. The cover picture shows H-bonds in the adenine–thymine Watson–Crick base pair. An essential part of these H-bonds is their covalent component arising from donor–acceptor interactions between N or O lone pairs and the N−H antibonding σ* acceptor orbital. This charge-transfer interaction is represented by green figures walking on the pedestrian crossing, connecting the bases. This covalent component is the reason why H-bonds between DNA and/or unsaturated model bases are significantly stronger than those between analogous saturated bases. This contrasts sharply with the classical picture of predominantly electrostatic H-bonds which is not only incomplete in terms of a proper bonding mechanism, but also fails to explain the trend in stability. For more details, see the Full Paper on p. 318 ff.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/72/4e/PMC4522167.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3168274", "abstract": "We demonstrated a method to screen for binders to a particular G-quadruplex sequence using easily designed short peptides consisting of naturally occurring amino acids and mining of binding data using statistical methods such as hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA). Despite the small size of the library used in this study, candidates of specific binders were identified. In addition, a selected peptide stabilized the G-quadruplex structure of a DNA oligonucleotide derived from the promoter region of the protooncogene c-MYC. This study illustrates how a peptide library can be designed and presents a screening guideline for construction of G-quadruplex binders. Such G-quadruplex peptide binders could be functionally modified to enable switching, cellular penetration, and organelle-targeting for cell and tissue engineering.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2f/82/PMC3168274.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4677198", "abstract": " Objective. To investigate the association of thyroid function and diabetic nephropathy (DN) in euthyroid patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods. A total of 421 patients were included in this cross-sectional study. The following parameters were assessed: anthropometric measurements, fast plasma glucose, serum creatinine, lipid profile, HbA1c, free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine, thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR). Patients with UACR of ≥30 mg/g were defined as those suffering from DN. Results. Of the 421 patients, 203 (48.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b9/05/PMC4677198.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4819301", "abstract": "Background: Auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs) of schizophrenia have been associated with structural and functional alterations of some brain regions. However, the brain regional homogeneity (ReHo) alterations specific to AVHs of schizophrenia remain unclear. In the current study, we aimed to investigate ReHo alterations specific to schizophrenic AVHs. Methods: Thirty-five schizophrenic patients with AVH, 41 schizophrenic patients without AVHs, and fifty healthy subjects underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. ReHo differences across the three groups were tested using a voxel-wise analysis. Results: Compared with the healthy control group, the two schizophrenia groups showed significantly increased ReHo in the right caudate and inferior temporal gyrus and decreased ReHo in the bilateral postcentral gyrus and thalamus and the right inferior occipital gyrus (false discovery rate corrected, P < 0.05). More importantly, the AVH group exhibited significantly increased ReHo in the left precuneus compared with the non-AVH group. However, using correlation analysis, we did not find any correlation between the auditory hallucination rating scale score and the ReHo of brain regions. Conclusions: Our results suggest that increased ReHo in the left precuneus may be a pathological feature exclusive to schizophrenic AVHs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/11/CMJ-129-809.PMC4819301.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4462990", "abstract": "There are a number of different dwell positions and time optimisation options available in the Oncentra® Brachy (Elekta Brachytherapy Solutions, Veenendaal, The Netherlands) brachytherapy treatment planning system. The purpose of this case study was to compare graphical (GRO) and inverse planning by simulated annealing (IPSA) optimisation techniques for interstitial head and neck (HN) and prostate plans considering dosimetry, modelled radiobiology outcome and planning time. Four retrospective brachytherapy patients were chosen for this study, two recurrent HN and two prostatic boosts. Manual GRO and IPSA plans were generated for each patient. Plans were compared using dose–volume histograms (DVH) and dose coverage metrics including; conformity index (CI), homogeneity index (HI) and conformity number (CN). Logit and relative seriality models were used to calculate tumour control probability (TCP) and normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). Approximate planning time was also recorded. There was no significant difference between GRO and IPSA in terms of dose metrics with mean CI of 1.30 and 1.57 (P > 0.05) respectively. IPSA achieved an average HN TCP of 0.32 versus 0.12 for GRO while for prostate there was no significant difference. Mean GRO planning times were greater than 75 min while average IPSA planning times were less than 10 min. Planning times for IPSA were greatly reduced compared to GRO and plans were dosimetrically similar. For this reason, IPSA makes for a useful planning tool in HN and prostate brachytherapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/80/ae/jmrs0062-0168.PMC4462990.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1693769", "abstract": "It is well established that hepatic resection improves the long-term prognosis of many patients with liver metastases. However, incomplete resection does not prolong survival, so knowledge of the exact extent of intra-hepatic disease is crucially important in determining patient management and outcome. MR imaging is well recognised as one of the most sensitive methods for detecting metastases. Recent developments in gradient coil design, the use of body phased array coils and the availability of novel MR contrast agents have resulted in MR being recognised as the pre-operative standard in this group of patients. However, diagnostic efficacy is extremely dependent on the choice and optimisation of pulse sequences and the appropriate use of MR contrast agents. This article reviews current MR imaging techniques for the detection and characterisation of metastases and discusses the relative capability of different techniques for detecting small lesions. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8f/42/PMC1693769.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4005863", "abstract": "Renalase, a novel amine oxidase, is mainly expressed in the kidney, heart, and skeletal muscle. It has been known to degrade circulating catecholamines and plays a crucial role in human diseases. Recent studies have demonstrated its structure, unique bioactivities, function, and the gene polymorphisms in human diseases. In this review, we summarize the effects of renalase on hypertension, myocardial ischemia, acute kidney injury (AKI), ischemic stroke, cardiac dysfunction, organ transplantation, and diabetes mellitus reported in numerous studies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/17/05/PMC4005863.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2199245", "abstract": "Although the budding yeast centromere is extremely short (125 bp) compared to those of other eukaryotes, the kinetochore that assembles on this DNA displays a rich molecular complexity. Here, we describe recent advances in our understanding of kinetochore function in budding yeast and present a model describing the attachment that is formed between spindle microtubules and centromeric DNA. This analysis may provide general principles for kinetochore function and regulation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b6/06/0201052.PMC2199245.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3460003", "abstract": "Purpose To evaluate the outcome of visual internal urethrotomy with a holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser along with intralesional triamcinolone injection. Materials and Methods Patients with an anterior urethral stricture less than 3 cm in length were evaluated by clinical history, physical examination, uroflowmetry, and retrograde urethrogram preoperatively. All patients were treated with holmium laser urethrotomy and intralesional triamcinolone (80 mg) injection under general or regional anesthesia. An 18 F urethral catheter was placed for 5 days. All patients were followed up for 12 months postoperatively by history, uroflowmetry, and if required, retrograde urethrogram or urethroscopy every 3 months. Results The mean age of the patients was 42.9 years (range, 14 to 70 years). The overall recurrence rate was 24", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/66/a5/kju-53-614.PMC3460003.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4142272", "abstract": "Flavanones (hesperidin, naringenin, naringin, and poncirin) in industrial, hand-squeezed orange juices and from fresh-in-squeeze machines orange juices were determined by HPLC/DAD analysis using a previously described liquid-liquid extraction method. Method validation including the accuracy was performed by using recovery tests. Samples (36) collected from different Brazilian locations and brands were analyzed. Concentrations were determined using an external standard curve. The limits of detection (LOD) and the limits of quantification (LOQ) calculated were 0.0037, 1.87, 0.0147, and 0.0066 mg 100 g−1 and 0.0089, 7.84, 0.0302, and 0.0200 mg 100 g−1 for naringin, hesperidin, poncirin, and naringenin, respectively. The results demonstrated that hesperidin was present at the highest concentration levels, especially in the industrial orange juices. Its average content and concentration range were 69.85 and 18.80–139.00 mg 100 g−1. The other flavanones showed the lowest concentration levels. The average contents and concentration ranges found were 0.019, 0.01–0.30, and 0.12 and 0.1–0.17, 0.13, and 0.01–0.36 mg 100 g−1, respectively. The results were also evaluated using the principal component analysis (PCA) multivariate analysis technique which showed that poncirin, naringenin, and naringin were the principal elements that contributed to the variability in the sample concentrations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/76/54/PMC4142272.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2992211", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To determine whether elevated fasting or 2-h plasma glucose and/or insulin better reflects the presence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk markers in an overweight pediatric population with normal glucose tolerance. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 151 overweight youths (8–17 years old) were evaluated with oral glucose tolerance tests and measurement of CVD risk factors. The study population was categorized according to quartiles of fasting and 2-h glucose and insulin levels. ANCOVA, adjusted for age, sex, race, Tanner stage, and percent body fat (measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), was used to compare metabolic variables between the quartiles of glucose and insulin groups. RESULTS Increasing quartiles of fasting and 2-h insulin were associated with increasing CVD risk factors. Glucose quartiles on the other hand, either fasting or at 2 h, were not. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that hyperinsulinemia may be the earliest and/or primary metabolic alteration in childhood associated with risk markers for CVD. Prospective studies are needed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/55/c6/zdc2674.PMC2992211.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4616271", "abstract": "Abstract De-novo malignancy is a serious posttransplant complication. While the incidence of Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is low, the time for its diagnosis is early after renal transplantation. Typically, it can be identified because of the classical skin lesion. We herein report an unusual case of rapid progressive KS without skin lesions in a 52-year-old patient leading to death within 8 months after kidney transplantation. This striking case illustrates the usefulness of [18F]2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for demonstrating the cause of unexplained deterioration of patient’s condition. Early identification of KS is critical because early (modification of) therapy can substantially improve patient’s prognosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/ea/medi-93-e67.PMC4616271.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4844501", "abstract": "Introduction: Intra-radicular disc herniations are rare disorders with only few cases reported in literature. In most of these cases there is evidence of some part of the disc in adjacent area. We present a case of completely intra-radicular disc which was misdiagnosed as nerve root tumor as there was no evidence of disc prolapse at the time of diagnosis. Case Presentation: 51 year old male presented with history of severe back pain radiating to right lower limb since 11/2 month. MRI showed hypointense lesion completely inside the S1 root and a provisional diagnosis of nerve root tumor was done. At surgery, fluffy material was removed from the lesion which was histopathologically confirmed as intervertebral disc. Post operatively all symptoms of patient was relieved except dysesthesia in sole which lasted for a year post surgery. At 5 year follow up patient has no symptoms. Conclusion: A diagnosis of intra-radicular disc should be considered in differential of nerve root tumor. Surgical excision of intra-radicular disc gives good clinical and functional results.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/42/bf/JOCR-2-7.PMC4844501.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3142101", "abstract": "A 90-year-old woman was admitted to the emergency department of our hospital with abdominal pain and a fever of up to 39°C. She had a history of hysterectomy about 30 years previously, and redness and swelling were seen at the abdominal median scar. Serum biochemistry showed minor elevation of C-reactive protein and creatine phosphokinase. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) showed an edematous intestinal tract image over the median abdominal wall. Incarcerated incisional hernia and intestinal necrosis were suspected. Therefore, emergency surgery was performed. On laparotomy, abundant purulent ascitic fluid was found. The small intestine was incarcerated about 100 cm orally from the terminal ileum, and a 2-mm perforation was present in the incarcerated small intestine. In addition, some white areas measuring 1 mm were found in the small intestinal wall. A press-through package (PTP) of a tablet was confirmed in the intestinal tract near the perforated area. We removed the PTP through the perforation and performed direct suture. Postoperatively, we retrospectively reviewed the CT image and found a high-density shadow which seemed to represent the PTP.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/45/90/crg0005-0391.PMC3142101.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3169901", "abstract": " Objective. To compare the amounts of anchorage loss in the upper first molar (U6) and of retraction of the upper central incisor (U1) in cases with Class I malocclusion between orthodontic mini-implants (OMIs) and conventional anchorage reinforcements (CARs). Methods. The subjects were 40 female adult patients with Class I malocclusion who were treated with extraction of the first premolars and sliding mechanics. The subjects were divided into Groups 1 (N = 20, CAR) and 2 (N = 20, OMI) according to anchorage method. Lateral cephalograms were taken before (T0) and after treatment (T1). Seven skeletal and dental variables and ten anchorage variables were measured. Mann-Whitney test was used for statistical analysis. Results. Group 2 showed significantly larger retraction of U1 (U1E-sag, 9.5 mm : 7.1 mm, P < .05) and less anchorage loss of U6 (U6M-sag, 0.2 mm : 2.2 mm, P < .05; U6A-sag, 0.3 mm versus 2.4 mm, P < .01) than Group 1. There was opposite vertical movement in U1 and U6 between Groups 1 and 2 (U1E-ver, 0.9 mm intrusion : 0.7 mm extrusion; U6F-ver, 1.0 mm intrusion : 0.9 mm extrusion, P < .05). Conclusion. Although OMI could not reduce the treatment duration, it could provide better maximum anchorage of U6, greater retraction of U1, intrusion of U1 and U6 than CAR.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/48/68/PMC3169901.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4641963", "abstract": " Objective. To determine the effect of hemodialysis (HD) on choroidal thickness (CT). Methods. The right eyes of 41 patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing HD were included. All patients underwent an ophthalmic examination, including CT measurement via optical coherence tomography, intraocular pressure (IOP), blood pressure, and body weight measurement immediately before and after a HD session. Results. Mean subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) after HD decreased significantly from 254.59 ± 84.66 µm to 229.34 ± 77.79 µm (p < 0.001). CT at the temporal and nasal regions also decreased significantly after HD (both p < 0.001). IOP changes after HD were insignificant (p = 0.958). CT difference was insignificant in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and without DM before and after HD, respectively (p = 0.285 and p = 0.707). Stepwise multivariate linear regression analysis showed that diastolic blood pressure was the best fitted factor to explain the changes in CT (r = 0.327 and p = 0.040).  Conclusion. CT was decreased in the patients with ESRD following a HD session. This study suggested that the changes in CT may be related to the changes in systemic blood pressure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d5/9a/PMC4641963.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3479709", "abstract": "Background Distinguishing small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the lung is difficult with little information about interobserver variability. Methods One hundred twenty-nine cases of resected SCLC and LCNEC were independently evaluated by four pathologists and classified according to the 2004 World Health Organization criteria. Agreement was regarded as \"unanimous\" if all four pathologists agreed on the classification. The kappa statistic was calculated to measure the degree of agreement between pathologists. We also measured cell size using image analysis, and receiver-operating-characteristic curve analysis was performed to evaluate cell size in predicting the diagnosis of high-grade neuroendocrine (NE) carcinomas in 66 cases. Results Unanimous agreement was achieved in 55.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/af/6a/kjpathol-46-42.PMC3479709.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4352365", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message The FOXP protein family (FOXP1-4) is a group of transcription factors that play important roles in embryological, immunological, hematological, and speech and language development. Here, we report FOXP1 de novo mutation and severe speech delay in an individual belonging to a non-Caucasian population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a2/c1/ccr30003-0110.PMC4352365.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4713762", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between the Selective Control Assessment of Lower Extremity (SCALE) and Pediatric Balance Scales (PBS) in children with spastic cerebral palsy and further to test whether the SCALE is a valid tool to predict the PBS. [Subjects and Methods] A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the SCALE and PBS in 23 children (9 females, 14 males, GMFCS level I–III) with spastic cerebral palsy. [Results] Both the SCALE and PBS scores for children with spastic hemiplegia were significantly higher than those for children with spastic diplegia. The scores for SCALE items were low for distal parts. The PBS items that were difficult for the participants to perform were items 8, 9, 10, and 14 with the highest difficulty experienced for item 8 followed by items 9, 10, and 14. The correlation coefficient (0.797) between the SCALE and PBS scores was statistically significant. The correlations between each SCALE item and the PBS scores were also statistically significant. SCALE items were significantly correlated with two PBS dimensions (standing and postural change). [Conclusion] In SCALE assessment, more severe deficits were observed in the distal parts. Standing and postural changes in the PBS method were difficult for the participants to perform. The two tests, that is, the SCALE and PBS, were highly correlated. Therefore, the SCALE is useful to prediction of PBS outcomes and is also applicable as a prognostic indicator for treatment planning.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/47/9d/jpts-27-3645.PMC4713762.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3578502", "abstract": "As stroke care has developed, there has been a need to robustly assess the efficacy of interventions both at the level of the individual stroke survivor and in the context of clinical trials. To describe stroke-survivor recovery meaningfully, more sophisticated measures are required than simple dichotomous end points, such as mortality or stroke recurrence. As stroke is an exemplar disabling long-term condition, measures of function are well suited as outcome assessment. In this review, we will describe functional assessment scales in stroke, concentrating on three of the more commonly used tools: the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, the modified Rankin Scale, and the Barthel Index. We will discuss the strengths, limitations, and application of these scales and use the scales to highlight important properties that are relevant to all assessment tools. We will frame much of this discussion in the context of “clinimetric” analysis. As they are increasingly used to inform stroke-survivor assessments, we will also discuss some of the commonly used quality-of-life measures. A recurring theme when considering functional assessment is that no tool suits all situations. Clinicians and researchers should chose their assessment tool based on the question of interest and the evidence base around clinimetric properties.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/55/34/PMC3578502.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4616352", "abstract": "Abstract We report a case of lung abscess caused by an ingested fish bone that was successfully treated by minimally invasive surgery. Although cases of ingested foreign body abscess are well reported, lung abscess caused by ingested fish bone is extremely rare. To date, less than 10 similar cases have been reported in the literature. To the best of our knowledge, the case presented in this case report is the first report of this kind that was successfully treated by video-assist thoracic surgery (VATS). A 47-year-old man was admitted to department of thoracic surgery with the complaint of continues dry cough and fever. The patient accidentally swallowed a long sharp-blade–shaped fish bone 20 days before, which perforated the upper thoracic esophagus on the right and embedded in the right upper lobe. The diagnosis was verified by computed tomography scan and a video-assist thoracic surgery procedure was successfully performed to treat the patient. The patient survived the esophageal perforation fortunately without involvement of great vessel injury and probable mediastinitis. This report may provide additional experience on lung abscess caused by ingested fish bones. However, it is also important to educate the public of the risks of trying to force an ingested object down into the stomach.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/62/medi-94-e943.PMC4616352.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3858142", "abstract": "Objectives This study aims to evaluate the severity and pattern of symptoms exhibited by teenage Korean temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients. Materials and Methods Among patients with an association of TMDs, teenage patients (11-19 years) who answered the questionnaire on the research diagnostic criteria for TMD (RDC/TMD) were recruited. Results The ratio of patients who visited our clinic with a chief complaint of clicking sound (34.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/74/jkaoms-39-231.PMC3858142.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2910303", "abstract": "Background Drop-out is a major problem in weight loss studies. Although previous attrition research has examined some predictors of drop-out, theoretically grounded research on psychological predictors of drop-out from weight interventions has been lacking. Purpose To examine psychological predictors of drop-out from a weight reduction study in diabetes type 2 patients. Method A clinical trial was conducted with 101 overweight/obese (body mass index >27) diabetes type 2 patients. Patients were randomly assigned to a self-regulation intervention, an active control group, and a passive control group. Psychological, somatic, socio-demographic, and lifestyle variables were examined as predictors of drop-out from baseline to 6 months follow-up. Results Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that low autonomous regulation or low ‘goal ownership’ was the best predictor of drop-out. Conclusion It is suggested that the assessment of ‘goal ownership’ prior to a weight reduction intervention could identify patients who are sufficiently motivated to participate. Patients who score low on ‘goal ownership’ may be offered pretreatment interventions to increase their motivation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/26/04/12529_2009_Article_9071.PMC2910303.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5088547", "abstract": "We herein report a novel mutation in a Japanese family with an X-linked Alport syndrome (AS) mutation in COL4A5. Patient 1 was a 2-year-old Japanese girl. She and her mother (patient 2) had a history of proteinuria and hematuria without renal dysfunction, deafness, or ocular abnormalities. Pathological findings were consistent with AS, and a genetic analysis revealed that both patients had a heterozygous mutation (c.2767G>C) in exon 32. In summary, the identification of mutations and characteristic pathological findings was useful in making a diagnosis of AS. For a close long-term follow-up, the early detection and treatment of women with X-linked AS are important. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2d/e4/1349-7235-55-2843.PMC5088547.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3246609", "abstract": "The electronic structure and binding energy of a hydrogenic acceptor impurity in 2, 1, and 0-dimensional semiconductor nano-structures (i.e. quantum well (QW), quantum well wire (QWW), and quantum dot (QD)) are studied in the framework of effective-mass envelope-function theory. The results show that (1) the energy levels monotonically decrease as the quantum confinement sizes increase; (2) the impurity energy levels decrease more slowly for QWWs and QDs as their sizes increase than for QWs; (3) the changes of the acceptor binding energies are very complex as the quantum confinement size increases; (4) the binding energies monotonically decrease as the acceptor moves away from the nano-structures’ center; (5) as the symmetry decreases, the degeneracy is lifted, and the first binding energy level in the QD splits into two branches. Our calculated results are useful for the application of semiconductor nano-structures in electronic and photoelectric devices.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ed/01/PMC3246609.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4120781", "abstract": "Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), is characterized by immunopathology driven by IFN-γ secreting Th1-like T cells. T. cruzi has a thick coat of mucin-like glycoproteins covering its surface, which plays an important role in parasite invasion and host immunomodulation. It has been extensively described that T. cruzi or its products—like GPI anchors isolated from GPI-anchored mucins from the trypomastigote life cycle stage (tGPI-mucins)—are potent inducers of proinflammatory responses (i.e., cytokines and NO production) by IFN-γ primed murine macrophages. However, little is known about whether T. cruzi or GPI-mucins exert a similar action in human cells. We therefore decided to further investigate the in vitro cytokine production profile from human mononuclear cells from uninfected donors exposed to T. cruzi as well as tGPI-mucins. We observed that both living T. cruzi trypomastigotes and tGPI-mucins are potent inducers of IL-12 by human peripheral blood monocytes and this effect depends on CD40-CD40L interaction and IFN-γ. Our findings suggest that the polarized T1-type cytokine profile seen in T. cruzi infected patients might be a long-term effect of IL-12 production induced by lifelong exposure to T. cruzi tGPI-mucins.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fc/12/PMC4120781.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4274411", "abstract": "Placing of sewing needles in the brain through the anterior fontanel is a rare entity. There are very few cases reported in literature. Most of them were asymptomatic, but some of them presented with seizure. We report here a 14-year-old boy, who was admitted to the Pediatric Neurology Department with a history of generalized tonic-clonic seizures due to sewing needle located in the frontal lobe.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ce/1b/ni-2014-4-5662.PMC4274411.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3174388", "abstract": "Although the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling axis plays important roles in cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation, the molecular mechanism underlying how the FGF elicits these diverse regulatory signals is not well understood. By using the Frs2α null mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) in conjunction with inhibitors to multiple signaling pathways, here we report that the FGF signaling axis activates mTOR via the FGF receptor substrate 2α (FRS2α)-mediated PI3K/Akt pathway, and suppresses autophagy activity in MEFs. In addition, the PI3K/Akt pathway regulated mTOR is crucial for the FGF signaling axis to suppress autophagy in MEFs. Since autophagy has been proposed to play important roles in cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation, the findings suggest a novel mechanism for the FGF signaling axis to transmit regulatory signals to downstream effectors.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/67/ijbsv07p1114.PMC3174388.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4648185", "abstract": "Background— The prognostic importance of left ventricular (LV) mass in nonsevere asymptomatic aortic stenosis has not been documented in a large prospective study. Methods and Results— Cox regression analysis was used to assess the impact of echocardiographic LV mass on rate of major cardiovascular events in 1656 patients (mean age, 67 years; 39.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/93/hci-8-e003644.PMC4648185.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3108682", "abstract": "Objectives: To characterize prescribing error interventions documented by pharmacists in four pharmacies in a primary health care service in Qatar. Methods: The study was conducted in a primary health care service in the State of Qatar in the period from January to March 2008. Pharmacists in four clinics within the service used online, integrated health care software to document all clinical interventions made. Documented information included: patient’s age and gender, drug therapy details, the intervention’s details, its category, and its outcome. Interventions were categorized according to the Pharmaceutical Care Network Europe Classification of drug-related problems (DRP). Results: The number of patients who had their prescriptions intercepted were 589 (0.71", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8f/04/PMC3108682.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3881510", "abstract": "Adipose tissue is a complex organ that comprises a wide range of cell types with diverse energy storage, metabolic regulation, and neuroendocrine and immune functions. Because it contains various immune cells, either adaptive (B and T lymphocytes; such as regulatory T cells) or innate (mostly macrophages and, more recently identified, myeloid-derived suppressor cells), the adipose tissue is now considered as a bona fide immune organ, at the cross-road between metabolism and immunity. Adipose tissue disorders, such as those encountered in obesity and lipodystrophy, cause alterations to adipose tissue distribution and function with broad effects on cytokine, chemokine, and hormone expression, on lipid storage, and on the composition of adipose-resident immune cell populations. The resulting changes appear to induce profound consequences for basal systemic inflammation and insulin sensitivity. The purpose of this review is to synthesize the current literature on adipose cell composition remodeling in obesity, which shows how adipose-resident immune cells regulate inflammation and insulin resistance—notably through cytokine and chemokine secretion—and highlights major research questions in the field.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6c/a1/PMC3881510.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4288436", "abstract": "Well validated antibodies are crucial to progress in a wide range of life science disciplines, but validating an antibody is a complex and ongoing process. Antibody validation is often carried out as preliminary work to a larger study so the validation data may go unpublished and needless duplication of efforts can occur. This collection of articles in F1000Research provides a home for papers describing antibody validation studies. Our goal is to encourage publishing of all studies, both positive and negative, which increase understanding of how antibodies perform. These could range from large studies with thousands of antibodies to small single figure studies which validate an individual antibody for a specific purpose. Opinion or Correspondence articles considering any aspect of antibody validation are also welcome. Here, we provide an introduction to the collection which we hope will grow and become a valuable resource for the many thousands of researchers who use antibodies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8c/a6/PMC4288436.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3728607", "abstract": "Pancreatic cancer is well known to be an aggressive and highly malignant condition with varied ways of presentation. Pancreatic cystic neoplasms are very uncommon causes of pancreatic malignancy and can often be ignored or missed, especially in the early stages. We present the case of a 49-year-old Caucasian male with no past medical history presenting to an outside facility with sudden epigastric pain that was eventually diagnosed as acute pancreatitis. On transfer to our facility, he was eventually found to have metastatic malignant mucinous cystic pancreatic neoplasm. Barely 12 weeks after his initial presentation and following an aggressive hospital course, he passed away.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d8/d5/crg-0007-0287.PMC3728607.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2664221", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION The six-minute walk test (6WT) has been proposed to be a submaximal test, but could actually demand a high level of exercise intensity from the patient, expressed by a respiratory quotient >1.0, following the guideline recommendations. Standardizing the 6WT using the Borg scale was proposed to make sure that all patients undergo a submaximal walking test. PURPOSE To test the reproducibility of the six-minute treadmill cardiopulmonary walk test (6CWT) using the Borg scale and to make sure that all patients undergo a submaximal test. METHODS Twenty-three male heart failure patients (50±9 years) were included; these patients had both ischemic (5) and non-ischemic (18) heart failure with a left ventricle ejection fraction of 23±7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/49/a2/PMC2664221.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5400452", "abstract": "Abstract Vertebral artery dissection following a posterior cervical foraminotomy with rhizolysis of the subaxial spine has not been described before. A 46-year-old lady underwent the procedure for a left C6 radiculopathy with a focal disc herniation with no intraoperative complications. Seven hours post-operatively, she developed a right homonymous hemianopia, thalamic dysphasia, gait and memory impairment. Imaging demonstrated an occlusion to the left vertebral artery from C7/T1 to C4 with a dissection flap noted at the inferior margin. This was further complicated with thrombosis of the dissected artery and subsequent emboli causing acute posterior circulation infarctions. Given that the dissection occurred at the level of the surgery, an indirect surgical cause is likely. We hypothesize that the vibration transmitted via bone from the high-speed drill led to arterial injury and dissection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ed/3c/rjx014.PMC5400452.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3823247", "abstract": "Abstract Raft-dependent endocytosis is in large part defined as the cholesterol-sensitive, clathrin-independent internalization of ligands and receptors from the plasma membrane. It encompasses the endocytosis of caveo-lae, smooth plasmalemmal vesicles that form a subdomain of cholesterol and sphingolipid-rich lipid rafts and that are enriched for caveolin-1. While sharing common mechanisms, like cholesterol sensitivity, raft endocytic routes show differential regulation by various cellular components including caveolin-1, dynamin-2 and regulators of the actin cytoskeleton. Dynamin-dependent raft pathways, mediated by caveolae and morphologically equivalent non-caveolin vesicular intermediates, are referred to as caveolae/raft-dependent endocytosis. In contrast, dynamin-independent raft pathways are mediated by non-caveolar intermediates. Raft-dependent endocytosis is regulated by tyrosine kinase inhibitors and, through the regulation of the internalization of various ligands, receptors and effectors, is also a determinant of cellular signaling. In this review, we characterize and discuss the regulation of raft-dependent endocytic pathways and the role of key regulators such as caveolin-1.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/32/bf/PMC3823247.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4905911", "abstract": "[Purpose] Many assumptions have been made about taping and several studies have considered tape application methods; however, the true effect of taping on muscle strength remains unclear. Most previous studies compared application techniques using Kinesio tape (KT), but studies that compared muscle strength using non-elastic tape (NT) are limited. Moreover, no studies have applied KT and NT in the same way to assess grip strength in normal subjects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the immediate effect of application of two tapes with different elastic properties on maximal grip strength in healthy adults. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty healthy adults were divided into two groups (KT and NT). Maximal grip strength was measured with a dynamometer. Forearm extensor muscles of the dominant hand were then taped and subjects were immediately asked to perform hand grip movement with maximum strength in the same standardized manner. [Results] In the KT group, maximal grip strength was significantly increased compared to the initial value; however, in the NT group, there was no significant difference in maximal grip strength. [Conclusion] This study suggests that only Kinesio tape can increase maximal grip strength immediately after application on the extensor region of the forearm.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/51/72/jpts-28-1565.PMC4905911.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2793071", "abstract": "Background The oral prednisolone test is widely used to distinguish chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients who might benefit from inhaled steroid treatment. Previous studies used selected patient groups that did not represent the large COPD population in primary care. Methods The study included smokers and exsmokers with chronic bronchitis or COPD from primary care, who underwent prednisolone testing (30 mg for 14 days) before randomization in a three-year follow-up randomized controlled trial (COOPT Study). Spirometry was performed before and after the test. Responders and nonresponders were classified according to international criteria. Effectiveness of inhaled fluticasone relative to placebo was compared in terms of health status (Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire), exacerbations, and postbronchodilator forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), using repeated measurement analysis. Results Two hundred eighty-six patients recruited from 44 primary care practices were randomized. Nine percent to 16", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/da/PMC2793071.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2998245", "abstract": "The ethical dimension of treating the elderly, including risk–benefit analysis, focuses mainly on quality of life and end-of-life issues. These include arguments on advance directives and the concept of extraordinary treatments. This paper looks more closely at the philosophical approach to aging in order to address questions on the direction of research and issues such as longevity and social construction of the aging process. It is the way society moves to understand the value-laden choices on aging that directs the goals of treatment and research. Whilst these vary culturally, one has to reckon with a postmodern view of aging which may, in turn, reflect on the course of action of future care and research in aging. The paper canvasses how, in reality, four principles act as guidelines for moral discourse, and discusses how changing values in society decide this course of action.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/38/PMC2998245.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2206510", "abstract": "Intubation of the airway can lead to laryngotracheal injury, resulting in extubation failure from upper airway obstruction (UAO). A number of factors can help to identify patients who are at greatest risk for postextubation UAO. Three randomized controlled trials demonstrate that prophylactic corticosteroids decrease the risk for postextubation UAO and probably the need for re-intubation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c6/2d/PMC2206510.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4905156", "abstract": "Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy of daily enemas for the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB) in children. This study was a prospective, controlled trial of 60 children with nonneurogenic OAB. The control patients (40) were treated with standard therapies, including timed voiding, constipation treatment with osmotic laxatives, anticholinergics, and biofeedback physical therapy, whereas the treatment patients (20) received only daily enemas and osmotic laxatives. On assessment of improvement of OAB symptoms, only 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f3/16/10.1177_2333794X16632941.PMC4905156.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4297075", "abstract": "The progression of cartilage matrix damage to generalized degeneration is associated with specific pathophysiological and clinical aspects. Reliable detection of stage-related characteristics of cartilage disease serves both a therapeutic and prognostic goal. Over the past years, several (pre)clinical diagnostic modalities for cartilage pathologies have been advocated. Each modality focuses on different aspects of the disease. Early diagnosis, before irreversible damage has occurred, opens up the possibility for better treatment and improves the patients’ prognosis. This article gives an overview of the diagnostic modalities available for monitoring cartilage pathology and focuses on reliability, clinical value, current status, and possible applications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/76/c9/PMC4297075.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5056565", "abstract": "A tight link exists between dietary factors and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), one of the most common functional syndromes, characterized by abdominal pain/discomfort, bloating and alternating bowel habits. Amongst the variety of foods potentially evoking “food sensitivity”, gluten and other wheat proteins including amylase trypsin inhibitors represent the culprits that recently have drawn the attention of the scientific community. Therefore, a newly emerging condition termed non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) or non-celiac wheat sensitivity (NCWS) is now well established in the clinical practice. Notably, patients with NCGS/NCWS have symptoms that mimic those present in IBS. The mechanisms by which gluten or other wheat proteins trigger symptoms are poorly understood and the lack of specific biomarkers hampers diagnosis of this condition. The present review aimed at providing an update to physicians and scientists regarding the following main topics: the experimental and clinical evidence on the role of gluten/wheat in IBS; how to diagnose patients with functional symptoms attributable to gluten/wheat sensitivity; the importance of double-blind placebo controlled cross-over trials as confirmatory assays of gluten/wheat sensitivity; and finally, dietary measures for gluten/wheat sensitive patients. The analysis of current evidence proposes that gluten/wheat sensitivity can indeed represent a subset of the broad spectrum of patients with a clinical presentation of IBS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/33/af/jnm-22-547.PMC5056565.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3132601", "abstract": " Objective. To assess the knowledge, awareness, and attitudes of dental faculty regarding research ethics and research ethics committees (RECs). Design. Through convenience sampling, we distributed a survey to academics at dental faculties at two universities in the Middle East. We used descriptive, chi-square, and logistic regression statistics to analyze the data. Results. Our response rate was 62.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a6/51/PMC3132601.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4558453", "abstract": "Virtual reality environments are increasingly being used to encourage individuals to exercise more regularly, including as part of treatment those with mental health or neurological disorders. The success of virtual environments likely depends on whether a sense of presence can be established, where participants become fully immersed in the virtual environment. Exposure to virtual environments is associated with physiological responses, including cortical activation changes. Whether the addition of a real exercise within a virtual environment alters sense of presence perception, or the accompanying physiological changes, is not known. In a randomized and controlled study design, moderate-intensity Exercise (i.e., self-paced cycling) and No-Exercise (i.e., automatic propulsion) trials were performed within three levels of virtual environment exposure. Each trial was 5 minutes in duration and was followed by posttrial assessments of heart rate, perceived sense of presence, EEG, and mental state. Changes in psychological strain and physical state were generally mirrored by neural activation patterns. Furthermore, these changes indicated that exercise augments the demands of virtual environment exposures and this likely contributed to an enhanced sense of presence.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/c4/PMC4558453.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3533142", "abstract": "Objective Silver–Russell syndrome (SRS) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous syndrome which is characterized by severe intrauterine and postnatal growth retardation, and typical characteristic facial dysmorphisms. It has been associated with maternal uniparental disomy (UPD) for chromosome 7 and hypomethylation of imprinting control region 1 (IGF2/H19) in 11p15. UPD refers to the situation in which both copies of a chromosome pair have originated from one parent. UPD can be presented both as partial heterodisomy and isodisomy. The aim of this study was to determine the maternal UPD7 (matUPD7) in 13 Turkish SRS patients. Methods Genotyping for matUPD7 was performed with microsatellite markers by polymerase chain reaction. Findings The maternal UPD7 including the entire chromosome was identified in 1/13 (7.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/69/55/IJPD-22-445.PMC3533142.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2887075", "abstract": "Specific genomic alterations, such as loss of the chromosomal region 11q or amplification of the oncogene MYCN, are well established markers of poor outcome in neuroblastoma. The advent of microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH) has enabled the analysis of pangenomic alteration profiles in the cancer genome, offering the possibility of identifying new prognostic markers from complex aberration patterns. Results from recent studies examining large primary neuroblastoma cohorts by array-CGH show that global genomic profiles may add significant prognostic information. Here, we discuss potential implications for risk estimation of neuroblastoma patients in clinical practice as well as for the understanding of neuroblastoma pathogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/5e/PMC2887075.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4589727", "abstract": "Background: Tooth crown dimensions vary between different ethnic groups, providing insights into the factors controlling human dental development. This present study compares permanent mesiodistal (MD) and buccolingual crown dimensions between four ethnic groups, highlighting patterns of tooth size between these groups and considers the findings in relation to genetic and environmental influences. Materials and Methods: MD and buccolingual tooth crown dimensions were recorded using digital vernier calipers on dental casts derived from four different human population: Iranians, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. Results: Obtained measurements were subjected to statistical analysis. The Christian sample was found to have the largest teeth overall, whereas the Iranian sample generally displayed the smallest MD and buccolingual crown dimensions (P < 0.001). Comparisons of coefficients of variation for teeth within each class showed that the later-forming teeth displayed greater variation in MD size than the earlier-forming teeth. Conclusion: The different patterns of tooth size observed between the study samples are thought to reflect differences in the relative contributions of genetic and environmental influences to dental development between the four population. Using a standardized methodology, significant differences in MD and buccolingual crown dimensions have been demonstrated between four human ethnic groups. There were also distinct differences in the patterns of crown size between the groups, with the later-forming teeth in each type generally showing greater size variation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/30/19/JIOH-7-83.PMC4589727.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4644622", "abstract": "Background: Internet addiction is a global phenomenon that causes serious problems in mental health and social communication. Students form a vulnerable group, since they have free, easy, and daily access to the internet. Objectives: The current study aimed to investigate perceived social support, self-esteem, and internet addiction among Al-Zahra University students. Materials and Methods: In the current descriptive research, the statistical sample consisted of 101 female students residing at AL-Zahra University dormitory, Tehran, Iran. Participants were randomly selected and their identities were classified. Then, they completed the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Rosenberg’s Self-esteem Scale, and Yang Internet Addiction Test. After completion of the questionnaires, the data were analyzed using the correlation test and stepwise regression. Results: The Pearson correlation coefficient indicated significant relationships between self-esteem and internet addiction (P < 0.05, r = -0.345), perceived social support (r = 0.224, P < 0.05), and the subscale of family (r = 0.311, P < 0.05). The findings also demonstrated a significant relationship between internet addiction and perceived social support (r = -0.332, P < 0.05), the subscale of family (P < 0.05, r = -0.402), and the other subscales (P < 0.05, r = -0.287). Results of the stepwise regression showed that the scale of internet addiction and the family subscale were predicative variables for self-esteem (r = 0.137, P < 0.01, F2, 96 = 77.7). Conclusions: Findings of the current study showed that persons with low self-esteem were more vulnerable to internet addiction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/72/83/ijpbs-09-421.PMC4644622.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3015569", "abstract": "Laparoscopic surgery may be used for treating a variety of benign hepatic lesions in select patients. The anatomic location of the lesions are more important than any other peculiarity when laparoscopic management is used. The aim of this report is to discuss the effects and feasibility of laparoscopic treatment of hydatid cyst of liver. The procedure is feasible and safe, offering all the advantages of laparoscopic surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/50/29/jsls-9-2-245.PMC3015569.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4216682", "abstract": " Background. Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a disorder characterized by fibrosis of skin and visceral organs. Pathogenesis of scleroderma is complex and is incompletely understood as yet. Autoantibodies in SSc represent a serologic hallmark which have clinical relevance, with diagnostic and prognostic potential. Objectives. To study distribution of clinical manifestations and to identify frequency of autoantibodies among subtypes of scleroderma patients from Western India. Methodology. One hundred and ten scleroderma patients were clinically classified according to the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) criteria. All these patients were in active stage of disease. Clinical manifestations were recorded at the time of presentation. Autoantibodies were tested in them by indirect immunofluorescence test and ELISA. Immunoglobulin levels were estimated by nephelometer. These parameters were further correlated with clinical presentation of the disease. Results. Scleroderma patients had M : F ratio of 1 : 10 where mean age at evaluation was 34.7 ± 10.7 years and a mean disease duration was 43.7 ± 35 months. Clinical subtypes showed that 45 patients (40.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/22/19/PMC4216682.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2798106", "abstract": "Cushing syndrome is rare in infancy and usually due to an adrenocortical tumor (ACT).  We report an infant with Cushing syndrome due to adrenocortical carcinoma. The patient presented at six months of age with a three-month history of growth failure, rapid weight gain, acne, and irritability. Physical examination showed obesity, hypertension, and Cushingoid features. Biochemical evaluation showed very high serum cortisol, mildly elevated testosterone, and suppressed ACTH. Abdominal MRI revealed a heterogeneous right adrenal mass extending into the inferior vena cava. Evaluation for metastases was negative. The tumor was removed surgically en bloc. Pathologic examination demonstrated low mitotic rate, but capsular and vascular invasion. She received no adjuvant therapy. Her linear growth has improved and Cushingoid features resolved. Hormonal markers and quarterly PET scans have been negative for recurrence 24 months postoperatively. In conclusion, adrenocortical neoplasms in children are rare, but should be considered in the differential diagnosis of Cushing syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/c5/PMC2798106.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2447788", "abstract": "The major public microarray repositories Gene Expression Omnibus and ArrayExpress are growing rapidly. This enables meta-analysis studies, in which expression data from multiple individual studies are combined. To facilitate these types of studies, we developed Microarray Retriever for searching and retrieval of data from GEO and ArrayExpress. The tool allows access to the two repositories simultaneously, to search in the repositories using complex queries, to retrieve microarray data for published articles and to download data in one structured archive. The tool is available on the web at: http://www.lgtc.nl/MaRe/", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/22/c0/gkn213.PMC2447788.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5159180", "abstract": "Liver haemangiomas are consistently reported to be the commonest benign liver tumours and are most often incidental findings in asymptomatic individuals. Large lesions can become symptomatic, spontaneously rupture or result in a consumptive coagulopathy known as Kasabach–Merrit Syndrome. It is believed that the female sex hormones, particularly oestrogen, have an influence on haemangioma development and growth. The optimal management of large haemangiomas during the hyperoestrogenic state of pregnancy is poorly described in the current literature. To our knowledge, we describe only the second case of a giant hepatic haemangioma resection during pregnancy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/86/a6/rjw185.PMC5159180.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2868187", "abstract": "Angiopoietins and Tie2 are angiogenic-specific ligand and receptor complex that have been shown to play a critical role in tumor angiogenesis. Angiopoietin-2 (Ang2) is one of four ligands for receptor Tie2 and it is the naturally occurring antagonist to Tie2, inhibiting the action of Angiopoietin-1 (Ang1). Over the last decade, significant research has focused on elucidating the role of Ang2 in cancer biology and its exact role in tumor angiogenesis remains elusive. In this study we have focused on establishing the role of Ang2 in angiogenesis of malignant astrocytomas. We have demonstrated that Ang2 significantly enhances the vascular growth of malignant astrocytomas and constant upregulation of Ang2 throughout all phases of tumor growth generates abnormal vascular structures that are not typically seen in human astrocytomas, suggesting that Ang2 plays a tumor stage-dependent role and is not a consistently elevated throughout all growth stages of malignant astroctyomas.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b6/3a/PMC2868187.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3945184", "abstract": " Background. Obesity studies are often performed on population data. We sought to examine the incidence of obesity and its associated comorbidities in a single freestanding children's hospital. Methods. We performed a retrospective analysis of all visits to Boston Children's Hospital from 2000 to 2012. This was conducted to determine the incidence of obesity, morbid obesity, and associated comorbidities. Each comorbidity was modeled independently. Incidence rate ratios were calculated, as well as odds ratios. Results. A retrospective review of 3,185,658 person-years in nonobese, 26,404 person-years in obese, and 25,819 person-years in the morbidly obese was conducted. Annual rates of all major comorbidities were increased in all patients, as well as in our obese and morbidly obese counterparts. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) and odds ratios (OR) were also significantly increased across all conditions for both our obese and morbidly obese patients. Conclusions. These data illustrate the substantial increases in obesity and associated comorbid conditions. Study limitations include (1) single institution data, (2) retrospective design, and (3) administrative undercoding. Future treatment options need to address these threats to longevity and quality of life.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d4/16/PMC3945184.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4929369", "abstract": "This case report presents an unusual complication of upper endoscopy, resulting in jaw dislocation. Temporomandibular joint dislocation is commonly reported in association with anesthesia and intubation, but it is not widely recognized as a complication of gastrointestinal endoscopy. This report also reviews the current literature regarding this complication and discusses the potential causes of dislocation, differential diagnoses for jaw pain following endoscopy, and recommendations for prevention.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2e/67/crg-0010-0146.PMC4929369.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3204763", "abstract": "In Brazil, Brazilian spotted fever was once considered the only tick-borne rickettsial disease. We report eschar-associated rickettsial disease that occurred after a tick bite. The etiologic agent is most related to Rickettsia parkeri, R. africae, and R. sibirica and probably widely distributed from São Paulo to Bahia in the Atlantic Forest.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ea/8e/PMC3204763.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4797510", "abstract": "Background: The optimal surgical management of nonfunctional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PNETs) is still controversial. Here, we evaluated the impact of lymph node status on postoperative recurrence in patients with NF-PNET and the potential of preoperative variables for predicting lymph node metastasis (LNM). Methods: In this mono-institutional retrospective cohort study conducted in 100 consecutive patients who underwent NF-PNET resection between January 2004 and December 2014, we evaluated risk factors for survival using the Kaplan–Meier method and the Cox regression model. Predictors of LNM were evaluated using the logistic regression model, and the power of predictive models was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: Five-year disease-free survival of resected NF-PNET was 64.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d1/b0/CMJ-128-3335.PMC4797510.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2246201", "abstract": "Early diagnosis of acute kidney injury (AKI) is often problematic, due to the lack of suitable early biomarkers of renal damage and kidney function. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) as an early marker of AKI partially overcomes such limitations and seems to demonstrate that diagnosing AKI in its early stages is possible and useful. Using genomic and protein microarray technology, a series of molecules have been identified as potential markers for AKI; among them NGAL has been demonstrated to rise significantly in patients with AKI but not in the corresponding controls. Furthermore, this rise in NGAL occurs in various studies at 24 to 48 hours before the rise in creatinine is observed. NGAL both in urine and plasma is an excellent early marker of AKI with an area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) in the range of 0.9. The study of Zappitelli et al. in critically ill children combines for the first time the new RIFLE classification (Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, End-stage renal disease) of AKI with the validation of NGAL as an early marker of kidney injury. This innovative approach brings a new hope for a timely diagnosis of AKI and thus a timely institution of measures for prevention and protection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/66/3a/PMC2246201.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4561114", "abstract": " Purpose. To evaluate effectiveness of simultaneous topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy and corneal collagen cross-linking in mild and moderate keratoconus. Methods. Prospective nonrandomized interventional study including 20 eyes of 14 patients with grade 1-2 keratoconus that underwent topography-guided PRK using a Custom Ablation Transition Zone (CATz) profile with 0.02", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e4/5b/PMC4561114.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3835498", "abstract": "This study examined the association between return-to-work and impairment type. Database of the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service was used to identify disabled persons; and return-to-work information was obtained from the Korea Employment Information Services database. The study participants were 79,328 persons who received Workers' compensation and who were confirmed as disabled during 2009-2011. Logistic regression was used to analyze the association between return-to-work and impairment type, adjusted by age, sex, impairment severity, pre-injury businesses size, and pre-injury occupational category. Compared to injuries of the upper limbs, the odds ratio of return-to-work was 0.63 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/86/f7/jkms-28-1581.PMC3835498.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3460705", "abstract": "We report the first case in the literature of chorioretinal atrophy involving the macula in an 11-year-old girl with Alagille syndrome, as examined by optical coherence tomography, and fundus autofluorescence imaging. Funduscopy revealed diffuse choroidal hypopigmentation with increased visibility of the choroidal vessels and symmetric, well circumscribed macular discoloration. Anomalous oblique configuration of the optic disc and peripapillary tortuous vessels were also detected. Optical coherence tomography demonstrated decreased retinal thickness, especially the outer retinal layer, and the photoreceptor inner segment/outer segment junctions were irregular and discontinued, corresponding to macular discoloration. Fundus autofluorescence imaging clearly defined hypofluorescent areas in the peripapillary regions that extended along the macula and had a sleep mask appearance. We suggest that transient hypovitaminosis due to Alagille syndrome early in life might contribute to the retinal degeneration seen in this case.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e1/15/PMC3460705.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4563283", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of energy expenditure rate on work productivity performance at different levels of production standard time. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty industrial workers performed repetitive tasks at three different levels of production standard time, normal, hard, and very hard. Work productivity and energy expenditure rate were recorded during the experimental tasks. [Results] The work productivity target was not attainable for the hard and very hard production standard times. This was attributed to the energy expenditure rate, which increased as the level of production standard time became harder. The percentage change in energy expenditure rate for the very hard level (32.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/49/jpts-27-2431.PMC4563283.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4540884", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study investigated the effect of horseback riding exercise on the background electroencephalograms of elderly people who performed horseback riding for 8 weeks. [Subjects] Twenty elderly people were divided into the horseback riding exercise and control group (n = 10 each). [Methods] The exercise was performed for 15 minutes, 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Electroencephalograms were analyzed. Post-exercise evaluation was performed after 8 weeks. [Results] After the horseback riding exercise, the relative slower alpha power index was active in the T3 and P4 domains but suppressed in the Fp1, Fp2, F3, F4, T4, and P3 domains. Moreover, the relative faster alpha power index was active in all domains of the horseback riding exercise group but was suppressed in all domains of the control group. There was a significant difference between groups in the F3 domain. [Conclusion] The alpha power index increased significantly after horseback riding exercise, suggesting the exercise improved background electroencephalogram.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/88/jpts-27-2373.PMC4540884.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3806999", "abstract": "The fate of testicular salvage in spermatic cord torsion depends on the duration of ischemia and the degree of torsion. Even though spermatic cord torsion (SCT) can occur at any age, it is rarely reported in older patients. If the physician does not pay close attention to this unusual situation, the lack of suspicion for SCT may result in a missed or delayed diagnosis. We report a very uncommon case of missed SCT occurring in a 63-year-old man.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/6d/kju-54-718.PMC3806999.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3369259", "abstract": "Renal cell carcinoma is an aggressive disease with a high rate of mortality. It is known to metastasize to the lung, liver, bone and brain. However, manifestation through lymphatic spread to the lungs is rare. Lymphangitic carcinomatosis is commonly observed in malignancies of the breast, lung, pancreas, colon and cervix. It is unusual to observe lymphangitic carcinomatosis of the lungs due to renal cell carcinoma. Lymphangitic carcinomatosis of the lungs may result in severe respiratory distress and may be the direct cause of death. Currently, there are no known modalities of preventing or slowing lymphangitic carcinomatosis besides treating the primary tumor. However, early detection may change the course of the disease and may prolong survival. This is compounded by the difficulty involved in diagnosing lymphangitic carcinomatosis of the lung which frequently involves lung biopsy. Immunohistochemical studies are often used in conjunction with regular histochemistry in ascertaining the primary tumor and in differentiating it from pulmonary metastasis. In this case report, we describe the presentation and clinical course of renal cell carcinoma in a patient which manifested as lymphangitis carcinomatosa of the lungs. The patient underwent surgical resection of the primary tumor with lymph node resection but presented with a fulminant lymphangitic carcinomatosis of the lungs within two weeks. Immunohistochemistry of the tissue obtained by the biopsy confirmed the diagnosis which was subsequently corroborated during his autopsy. This case illustrates the necessity of an urgent follow-up of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in such patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/3a/cro-0005-0246.PMC3369259.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4566505", "abstract": "We describe here a rare case of traumatic myiasis occurred in August 2014, caused by an association of 2 Diptera species, Sarcophaga tibialis Macquart (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) and Lucilia sericata (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), in a domestic cat in northern Italy. Species identification was based on adult male morphology. The present case is the first report of S. tibialis as an agent of myiasis in Italy, and also the first ever report of myiasis caused by an association of S. tibialis and L. sericata. The cat developed an extensive traumatic myiasis in a large wound on the rump, which was treated pharmacologically and surgically. The biology, ecology, and distribution of S. tibialis and L. sericata are also discussed. A literature review is provided on cases of myiasis caused by S. tibialis, and cases of myiasis by L. sericata involving cats worldwide and humans and animals in Italy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/45/dc/kjp-53-4-471.PMC4566505.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2686596", "abstract": "It is 10 years since the IMGT/HLA database was released, providing the HLA community with a searchable repository of highly curated HLA sequences. The HLA complex is located within the 6p21.3 region of human chromosome 6 and contains more than 220 genes of diverse function. Many of the genes encode proteins of the immune system and are highly polymorphic. The naming of these HLA genes and alleles, and their quality control is the responsibility of the WHO Nomenclature Committee for Factors of the HLA System. Through the work of the HLA Informatics Group and in collaboration with the European Bioinformatics Institute, we are able to provide public access to this data through the website http://www.ebi.ac.uk/imgt/hla/. The first release contained 964 sequences, the most recent release 3300 sequences, with around 450 new sequences been added each year. The tools provided on the website have been updated to allow more complex alignments, which include genomic sequence data, as well as the development of tools for probe and primer design and the inclusion of data from the HLA Dictionary. Regular updates to the website ensure that new and confirmatory sequences are dispersed to the HLA community, and the wider research and clinical communities.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/84/ea/gkn662.PMC2686596.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3175415", "abstract": "The anatomy of the clitoris is described in human anatomy textbooks. Some researchers have proposal and divulged a new anatomical terminology for the clitoris. This paper is a revision of the anatomical terms proposed by Helen O'Connell, Emmanuele Jannini, and Odile Buisson. Gynecologists, sexual medicine experts, and sexologists should spread certainties for all women, not hypotheses or personal opinions, they should use scientific terminology: clitoral/vaginal/uterine orgasm, G/A/C/U spot orgasm, and female ejaculation, are terms that should not be used by sexologists, women, and mass media. Clitoral bulbs, clitoral or clitoris-urethrovaginal complex, urethrovaginal space, periurethral glans, Halban's fascia erogenous zone, vaginal anterior fornix erogenous zone, genitosensory component of the vagus nerve, and G-spot, are terms used by some sexologists, but they are not accepted or shared by experts in human anatomy. Sexologists should define have sex, make love, the situation in which the orgasm happens in both partners with or without a vaginal intercourse.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8c/e2/PMC3175415.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4376551", "abstract": "Background: Disturbances related to the arachidonic acid cascade and prostaglandin metabolism may be involved in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder, as supported by a recent genome-wide association study meta-analysis; however, evidence from clinical studies on a transcriptional level is lacking. Two enzymes in the arachidonic acid cascade are the prostaglandin D synthase (PTGDS), which catalyzes the conversion of prostaglandin H2 to prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), and the aldo-keto reductase family 1 member C3 (AKR1C3), which catalyzes the reduction of PGD2. We aimed to test the hypothesis that mRNA expression of PTGDS and AKR1C3 is deregulated in rapid-cycling disorder patients in a euthymic or current affective state compared with healthy control subjects, and that expression alters with affective states. Methods:  PTGDS and AKR1C3 mRNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was measured in 37 rapid-cycling bipolar disorder patients and 40 age- and gender-matched healthy control subjects using reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Repeated measurements of PTGDS and AKR1C3 mRNA expression were obtained in various affective states during 6–12 months and compared with repeated measurements in healthy control subjects. Results: Adjusted for age and gender, PTGDS mRNA expression was down-regulated in rapid-cycling bipolar disorder patients in a euthymic, depressive, and manic/hypomanic state compared with healthy control subjects. No difference in PTGDS mRNA expression was observed between affective states. AKR1C3 mRNA expression did not differ between bipolar disorder patients in any affective state or in comparison with healthy control subjects. Conclusions: The results suggest a role for aberrantly-regulated PTGDS mRNA expression in rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. The sample size was limited; replication of the findings in larger, independent samples is warranted to further explore the role of the arachidonic acid cascade and prostaglandin metabolism as a potential therapeutic target in bipolar disorder.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/c0/pyu101.PMC4376551.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4390745", "abstract": "Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) play a key role in insulin and insulin growth factor signaling and are known to be expressed in several tissues. Studies on the transcriptional regulation of IGFBP genes in various cell types have suggested that IGFBPs control both systemic hormones and regulators. Also, the complex regulatory mechanisms involved in both transcription and translation of IGFBPs provide evidence for molecular mechanisms by which growth factor- and hormone-mediated gene expression are regulated. In particular, IGFBP-1 is known to be an important regulator of IGF activity and mainly regulates metabolism in mammals. In this review, we focus on recent progress in elucidating the transcriptional regulation of IGFBP-1 among IGFBP isoforms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7f/42/jlm-03-73.PMC4390745.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3358605", "abstract": "Penetrating injuries to the upper cervical spine resulting from gunshots are rare in South Korea due to restrictions of gun use. Moreover, gunshot wounds to the upper cervical spine without neurological deficits occur infrequently because of the anatomic location and surrounding essential structures. We present an uncommon case involving the surgical removal of a bullet located in the anterior arch of first cervical vertebra (C1) via a transoral approach without neurological complications or subsequent mechanical instability.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/17/jkns-51-164.PMC3358605.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4209258", "abstract": "Diplopia is an infrequent complication after blepharoplasty. Most of the cases are in its vertical form due to trauma of the extraocular muscles. In this article, we present a case of horizontal diplopia following cosmetic upper blepharoplasty; we review the literature on this unexpected complication and offer some recommendations to avoid it.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/10/53/cop-0005-0289.PMC4209258.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4724828", "abstract": "Background: The mechanisms of virulence and species differences of Leishmania parasites are under the influence of gene expression regulations at posttranscriptional stages. In Iran, L. major and L. tropica are known as principal agents of cutaneous leishmaniasis, while L. infantum causes visceral leishmaniasis. Methods: As a preliminary study, we compared the proteome mapping of the above three Iranian isolates of Leishmania species through the 2-dimension electrophoresis (2-DE), and identified the prominent proteins by Liquid Chromatography (LC) mass spectrometry. Results: We reproducibly detected about 700 protein spots in each species by using the Melanie software. Totally, 264 proteins exhibited significant changes among 3 species. Forty nine protein spots identified in both L. tropica and L. major were similar in position in the gel, whereas only 35 of L. major proteins and 10 of L. tropica proteins were matched with those of L. infantum. Having identified 24 proteins in the three species, we sought to provide possible explanations for their differential expression patterns and discuss their relevance to cell biology. Conclusion: The comparison of proteome profiling pattern of the 3 species identified limit up and limit down regulated or absent /present proteins. In addition, the LC-MS data analysis showed that most of the protein spots with differential abundance in the 3 species are involved in cell motility and cytoskeleton, cell signaling and vesicular trafficking, intracellular survival / proteolysis, oxidative stress defense, protein synthesis, protein ubiquitination / proteolysis, and stress related proteins. Differentially proteins distributed among the species maybe implicated in host pathogenecity interactions and parasite tropism to cutaneous or visceral tissue macrophages.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/49/PMC4724828.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2935986", "abstract": "Glossopharyneal neuralgia (GPN) is generally considered to be a pain disease. However, it can be also be a life-threatening cardiac cause of syncope. Neuralgia in the throat and neck can trigger severe bradycardia up to the point of asystole, which can progress to cardiac syncope with or without seizures. A 65 year-old male patient diagnosed with glossopharyngeal neuralgia complained of severe paroxysmal pain in his right chin and ear followed by bradycardia, aystole and syncope. We report a case successfully treated with a permanent pacemaker and carbamazepine in a patient with GPN who had syncopal attacks preceded by paroxysms of pain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/41/f2/kjpain-23-215.PMC2935986.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4356724", "abstract": "Aneurysms involving the main pulmonary artery and its branches are rare. Clinical experience is limited, and their management is not well established. We present the case of a 35-year-old male patient with dyspnea and hemoptysis in whom subsequent imaging studies revealed a giant pulmonary artery aneurysm associated with an uncorrected patent ductus arteriosus and Eisenmenger’s syndrome. We chose to treat the patient conservatively with medical management due to the development of Eisenmenger’s physiology while waiting for heart-lung transplantation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c1/30/CCR-11-163.PMC4356724.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4583696", "abstract": "A Gram positive bacterium, Georgenia sp. SUB25 was isolated from infected leaves of Solanum lycopersicum L. in Rajkot (22.30°N, 70.78°E), Gujarat, India. We sequenced and analyzed Georgenia sp. SUB25 that is novel plant pathogen using next generation sequencing platform and assembly yielded contigs representing a size of 4.84 Mb with 81 tRNAs and 88 rRNAs. The whole genome sequencing has been deposited in DDBJ/EMBL/GenBank under the accession number JNFL00000000. This genome sequence contains Type II secretion system genes, which involved in pathogenicity mechanism that may help to understand plant microbial interaction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/d4/main.PMC4583696.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC551522", "abstract": "The phosphoprotein Dishevelled (Dsh) is an essential component of Wnt signaling pathways and transduces signals into three separate branches, the canonical, non-canonical and Ca2+ pathways. How Dsh focuses signaling into these branches remains mysterious, but a new study reveals the importance of nuclear localization of Dsh for pathway-specific activation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/91/PMC551522.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5344091", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objective: To translate the Perme Intensive Care Unit Mobility Score and the ICU Mobility Scale (IMS) into Portuguese, creating versions that are cross-culturally adapted for use in Brazil, and to determine the interobserver agreement and reliability for both versions.  Methods: The processes of translation and cross-cultural validation consisted in the following: preparation, translation, reconciliation, synthesis, back-translation, review, approval, and pre-test. The Portuguese-language versions of both instruments were then used by two researchers to evaluate critically ill ICU patients. Weighted kappa statistics and Bland-Altman plots were used in order to verify interobserver agreement for the two instruments. In each of the domains of the instruments, interobserver reliability was evaluated with Cronbach's alpha coefficient. The correlation between the instruments was assessed by Spearman's correlation test.  Results: The study sample comprised 103 patients-56 (54", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/a6/1806-3713-jbpneu-42-06-00429.PMC5344091.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4062856", "abstract": " Background. Giardia lamblia is an important cause of diarrhoeal disease throughout the world. Giardiasis— a mild and self-limiting disease that this protozoan causes— is perceived as a harmful disease. Aim. To explore the general level of awareness about giardiasis, clinical features, mode of transmission, prevention, and consequences and describe the sources and channels of information caregivers would prefer using to be informed about this disease. Methods. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among caregivers attending to the outpatient paediatric hospital setting in Havana. Results. A total of 202 caregivers were interviewed. Nearly 73", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b0/80/PMC4062856.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4983368", "abstract": "To determine the effect of hyperosmolarity on cell survival/apoptosis of conjunctival epithelial cells and evaluate the possible role of IL6, Wong-Kilbourne derivative of Chang conjunctival cell line (WKD) was used in this study. Confluent cells were incubated under different osmolarity (290 mOsm and 500 mOsm) with or without neutralizing IL6 antibody (50 ng/mL). The expression of IL6 level was measured in the supernatant of each conditioned medium. Cell viability/apoptosis assay was performed using Annexin V/Propidium Iodide (PI) and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). Western blot was conducted to measure the abundance of apoptotic markers and IL6 related downstream signaling pathway. The concentration of IL6 showed time-dependent increase in cells treated with 500 mOsm. Although apoptosis of WKD cell is increased in treated 500 mOsm for 24 h, apoptosis reduced in WKD cell treated 500 mOsm with anti-IL6 for 24 h. Anti-IL6 inhibited the activation of JAK-STAT signaling pathway, which was induced by hyperosmolarity. Hyperosmolar condition induced apoptosis in conjunctival epithelial cells, along with increase of IL6 production. IL6 neutralizing antibody inhibited apoptosis and JAK-STAT signaling in hyperosmolar condition. These findings suggested that IL6 may be involved in apoptotic change and in hyperosmolarity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/00/PMC4983368.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3061488", "abstract": "Processing speed, or the rate at which tasks can be performed, is a robust predictor of age-related cognitive decline and an indicator of independence among older adults. This review examines evidence for neurobiological predictors of age-related changes in processing speed, which is guided in part by our source based morphometry findings that unique patterns of frontal and cerebellar gray matter predict age-related variation in processing speed. These results, together with the extant literature on morphological predictors of age-related changes in processing speed, suggest that specific neural systems undergo declines and as a result slow processing speed. Future studies of processing speed – dependent neural systems will be important for identifying the etiologies for processing speed change and the development of interventions that mitigate gradual age-related declines in cognitive functioning and enhance healthy cognitive aging.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ab/2d/PMC3061488.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4421406", "abstract": "Hyponatremia affects nearly one in five of all hospitalized patients. Severe hyponatremia is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and is therefore important to recognize. Prior reports have linked duloxetine with hyponatremia, but it is uncommon. In this case report, we describe a research subject taking duloxetine who developed severe symptomatic hyponatremia during glomerular filtration rate testing despite having undergone such testing uneventfully in the past.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/26/sfq166.PMC4421406.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4706712", "abstract": "Background: Aggression is defined as behaviors intended to hurt, harm, or injure another person. Aggression is by no means a new concern in human society, especially in youth. Universities are among the institutions in which most of the members are young people and because of facing with various personal and social stressors, the students usually experience high level of stress. Objectives: This study aimed to determine aggression among university students and its association with their personal, family, and social characteristics. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, analytic study was conducted on a representative sample (n = 809) of university students (1 state university and 2 private universities) locating in Gonabad, Iran in 2012. Using proportional to size stratified sampling, we selected the respondents and gathered the required data using a valid and reliable questionnaire. The data were entered into SPSS (version 20) and analyzed through t test, ANOVA, and regression model. Results: A total of 381 (47.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ad/e9/ircmj-17-12-20017.PMC4706712.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3915855", "abstract": " Objective. To assess the effect on health of the following measures in schools in Maradi (Niger): clean water supply, construction of latrines, establishment of hand washing stations, and health education. Methodology. It was a “before and after” intervention study on a sample of school children aged 7 to 12 years in the Maradi region. The interventions included building of latrines, supplying clean water, setting up hand washing stations, and teaching health education lessons. An individual questionnaire, analysis of stool samples, and a group questionnaire were administered to children and teachers, respectively. The threshold for significance was set at P < 0.05. Results. A statistically significant reduction in cases of diarrhoea and abdominal pains was noted after the project. Overall, carriage of at least one parasite increased from 7.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6a/d5/PMC3915855.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1824718", "abstract": "Background Among older cancer patients, there is uncertainty about the degree to which venous thromboembolism (VTE) and its treatment increase the risk of death or major hemorrhage. Objective To determine the prevalence of VTE in a cohort of older cancer patients, as well as the degree to which VTE increased the risk of death or major hemorrhage. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry and Medicare administrative claims data. Patients with any of ten invasive cancers diagnosed during 1995 through 1999 were included; the independent variable was VTE diagnosed concomitantly with cancer diagnosis. Outcomes included major hemorrhage during the first year after cancer diagnosis and all-cause mortality; Results Overall, about 1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/03/93/PMC1824718.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4227409", "abstract": " Background. Reproductive health programming for female sex workers (FSW) may include contraceptive services but rarely addresses safer pregnancy planning.  Methods. Adult FSW were enrolled into a cross-sectional study across four sites in Burkina Faso and Togo using respondent-driven sampling. Sociobehavioral questionnaires and HIV counseling and testing were administered. Sample statistics and engagement in HIV treatment were described and compared using Chi-squared statistics. Results. 1,349 reproductive-aged FSW were enrolled from January to July 2013. Overall, 267 FSW (19.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/88/c5/PMC4227409.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4329955", "abstract": "Background: Dyspepsia is a common disorder that can present many clinical dilemmas in patient management. Although not usually life-threatening, its symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, early satiety and postprandial fullness can have a significant negative impact on patients' quality of life. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of dyspepsia and its associated factors among the adult population in Kerman in 2010. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 2210 patients with the mean age of 43.4 years in Kerman, a city in southeast of Iran. Demographic factors, lifestyle data and gastrointestinal symptoms were collected for each patient. Results: The prevalence of dyspepsia was 16.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/61/ircmj-16-11-14757.PMC4329955.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5121551", "abstract": "There are very few reports of elevated lipase in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Symptoms of pancreatitis may be masked by abdominal pain in pediatric IBD. During the initial presentation of IBD in our patient, lipase was elevated to more than 3 times the upper limit of normal. Normalization of values coincided with remission of IBD. This may be due to extraintestinal involvement of the pancreas as part of the inflammatory process or due to leakage of pancreatic enzymes from an inflamed gut or mediated by inflammatory cytokines. Checking pancreatic enzymes during initial presentation of IBD may, therefore, be important to determine if pancreatic involvement has resulted from the inflammation in IBD or as an adverse effect of therapy. If unchecked, recurrent subclinical pancreatitis may be masked by IBD symptoms and missed prior to starting IBD therapy. This may result in chronic pancreatic insufficiency as reported in 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9b/3f/crg-0010-0568.PMC5121551.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3066739", "abstract": "Aims and objectives To assess the impact of robotic dispensing machines in community pharmacies on staff efficiency and sales of over-the-counter drugs. Setting The study was done on 253 community pharmacies in Germany that use a robotic dispensing machine manufactured by ROWA during 2008. Method Data concerning the financial and economic impact of using a robotic dispensing machine in community pharmacies was gathered using a structured questionnaire and analysed in terms of its financial implications. Key findings The response rate was 29", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/4c/LJM-4-146.PMC3066739.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4805572", "abstract": "We described a case of a 54-year-old male who presented with dizziness and dyspnea due to cardiac metastasis of leiomyosarcoma. Cardiac metastasis of leiomyosarcoma caused both bradyarrhythmia and tachyarrhythmia in the patient. He was treated with implantation of a permanent pacemaker for management of complete atrio-ventricular block and anti-arrhythmic drug that suppressed ventricular tachycardia successfully.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3e/55/kcj-46-260.PMC4805572.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2905700", "abstract": " Objective. To assess the effect of universal screening and administration of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent early-onset neonatal GBS sepsis at a private tertiary care hospital since issuance of the 2002 CDC guidelines for preventing perinatal GBS disease. Methods. Retrospective analysis of women delivering between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2004 at a private tertiary care hospital in Houston, Texas. The percentage of women screened, GBS positive women receiving intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis, and infants developing early-onset GBS sepsis were determined. Results. 2,108 women delivered 2,135 infants with 1,874 (89", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/19/be/PMC2905700.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4498852", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Low fraction fetal DNA in noninvasive prenatal testing in the context of fetal growth restriction and multiple congenital anomalies should alert medical professionals to the possibility of digynic triploidy. Single-nucleotide polymorphism microarray can detect the parental origin of triploidy and explain its mechanism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/0b/ccr30003-0406.PMC4498852.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4792988", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of changes in palmar width on the muscle activities of the shoulder and truncus muscles during push-up exercise. [Subjects] Twelve healthy adult males participated in this study as subjects. [Methods] Push-up exercises were performed with three different palmar width in narrow (50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d3/4a/jpts-28-446.PMC4792988.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4193023", "abstract": "Medicare program data on utilization and charges for short-stay hospital inpatient services are presented. The focus of this article is on trends in total and surgical discharges for selected years (1977-87) and highlights of regional variations in the most frequently reported (leading) surgical procedures performed on aged Medicare hospital insurance beneficiaries during 1987.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/8c/PMC4193023.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4651710", "abstract": " Introduction. In patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC), IRE has been shown to be safe for local disease control and palliation. As IRE continues to gain acceptance it is important to characterize the expected imaging findings. Materials and Methods. A review of our prospective soft tissue ablation registry from July 2010 to June 2013 was performed on patients who had undergone IRE for LAPC. Five masses treated with intraoperative IRE ablation for pancreatic tumors that underwent CT imaging before and after ablation were reviewed. Results and Discussion. Following IRE, the postablation bed is larger than the original ablated tumor. This ablation zone may get smaller in size (due to decreased edema and hyperemia) in the following months and more importantly remains stable provided there is no recurrence. In cases of recurrent disease there is increased size of the ablation bed, mass effect, and new or worsening vascular encasement or occlusion. Conclusion. CT imaging remains the best current imaging modality to assess post-IRE ablation changes. Serial imaging over at least 2–6 months must be employed to detect recurrence by comparing with prior studies in conjunction with clinical and serum studies. Larger imaging studies are underway to evaluate a more ideal imaging modality for this unique patient population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/fa/PMC4651710.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4498653", "abstract": "Land plants are a natural group, and Charophyte algae are the closest lineages of land plants and have six morphologically diverged groups. The conjugating green algae (Zygnematales) are now suggested to be the extant sister group to land plants, providing the novel understanding for character evolution and early multicellular innovations in land plants. We review recent molecular phylogenetic work on the origin of land plants and discuss some future directions in phylogenomic analyses.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/91/9d/PMC4498653.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4026661", "abstract": "Purpose We investigated the etiologies of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and compared urodynamic characteristics between different diagnostic groups in young men with chronic LUTS. Materials and Methods We reviewed the medical records of 308 men aged 18 to 50 years who had undergone a urodynamic study for chronic LUTS (≥6 months) without symptoms suggestive of chronic prostatitis. Results The men's mean age was 40.4 (±10.1) years and their mean duration of symptoms was 38.8 (±49.2) months. Urodynamic evaluation demonstrated voiding phase dysfunction in 62.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cb/7b/kju-55-341.PMC4026661.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4513171", "abstract": "Objective There are several reports, which documented a high incidence of complications following the use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) in anterior cervical fusions (ACFs). The objective of this study is to share our experience with low-dose rhBMP-2 in anterior cervical spine. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of 197 patients who underwent anterior cervical fusion (ACF) with the use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) during 2007-2012. A low-dose rhBMP-2 (0.7mg/level) sponge was placed exclusively within the cage. In 102 patients demineralized bone matrix (DBM) was filled around the BMP sponge. Incidence and severity of dysphagia was determined by 5 points SWAL-QOL scale. Results Two patients had prolonged hospitalization due to BMP unrelated causes. Following the discharge, 13.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/40/23/kjs-12-68.PMC4513171.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4357675", "abstract": "Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common non-melanoma skin cancer. Exposure to ultraviolet light is an important risk factor for BCC development and the disorder therefore develops commonly on body areas that are more exposed to sunlight, such as the face and neck. It is uncommon in the closed area of the body and quite rare in the perianal and genital regions. Herein, we report a 34-year-old patient with perianal BCC who had no additional risk factors.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3d/3c/cde-0007-0025.PMC4357675.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4302625", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message A 74-year-old female patient underwent a Roux-en-Y cystjejunostomy for pancreatic pseudocyst developed several melena episodes and she was surgically reappraised. The main diagnostic concern was a pancreatic cystic neoplasm. A 12 × 8.0 × 5.0 cm retro-gastric lesion was resected and pathology report indicated an unsuspected gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). The report aimed to describe an atypical presentation of GIST.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fb/9c/ccr30002-0197.PMC4302625.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5109577", "abstract": "Acute acalculous cholecystitis (AAC) is a severe disease seen in critically ill patients, including those with autoimmune diseases. We herein report the case of a 41-year-old female who developed macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) accompanied by a recurrence of Kikuchi disease. Abdominal imaging revealed marked thickening of the gallbladder wall and pericholecystic fluid, typically found in AAC. Treatment with intravenous pulse methylprednisolone induced in a significant improvement in the gallbladder wall, resulting in no need for surgical intervention. We should consider that patients with MAS may therefore sometimes develop AAC and that early immunosuppressive therapy can be effective in AAC cases associated with rheumatic or autoimmune diseases. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0b/f2/1349-7235-55-3043.PMC5109577.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4024563", "abstract": "PURPOSE The aim of this study was to determine the efficiency of Erbium, Chromium: Yttrium-Scandium-Gallium-Garnet laser in different output powers for removing permanent resin cement residues and therefore its influence on microshear bond strength compared to other cleaning methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS 90 extracted human molars were sectioned in 1 mm thickness. Resin cement was applied to surface of sliced teeth. After the removal of initial cement, 6 test groups were prepared by various dentin surface treatment methods as follows: no treatment (Group 1), ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid application (Group 2), Endosolv R application (Group 3), 1.25 W Erbium, Chromium:Yttrium-Scandium-Gallium-Garnet laser irradiation (Group 4), 2 W Erbium, Chromium:Yttrium-Scandium-Gallium-Garnet laser irradiation (Group 5) and 3.5 W Erbium, Chromium:Yttrium-Scandium-Gallium-Garnet laser irradiation (Group 6). The topography and morphology of the treated dentin surfaces were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (n=2 for each group). Following the repetitive cementation, microshear bond strength between dentin and cement (n=26 in per group) were measured with universal testing machine and the data were analyzed by Kruskal Wallis H Test with Bonferroni correction (P<.05). Fracture patterns were investigated by light microscope. RESULTS Mean microshear bond strength ± SD (MPa) for each group was 34.9 ± 17.7, 32.1 ± 15.8, 37.8 ± 19.3, 31.3 ± 12.7, 44.4 ± 13.6, 40.2 ± 13.2 respectively. Group 5 showed significantly difference from Group 1, Group 2 and Group 4. Also, Group 6 was found statistically different from Group 4. CONCLUSION 2 W and 3.5 W Erbium, Chromium: Yttrium-Scandium-Gallium-Garnet laser application were found efficient in removing resin residues.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/70/jap-6-79.PMC4024563.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4322891", "abstract": "Background Perfectionism is understood as a set of personality traits such as unrealistically high and rigid standards for performance, fear of failure, and excessive self-criticism. Previous studies showed a direct association between increased perfectionism and poor sleep, though without taking into account possible mediating factors. Here, we tested the hypothesis that perfectionism was directly associated with poor sleep, and that this association collapsed, if mediating factors such as stress and poor emotion regulation were taken into account. Methods Three hundred and forty six young adult students (M=23.87 years) completed questionnaires relating to perfectionism traits, sleep, and psychological functioning such as stress perception, coping with stress, emotion regulation, and mental toughness. Results Perfectionism was directly associated with poor sleep and poor psychological functioning. When stress, poor coping, and poor emotion regulation were entered in the equation, perfectionism traits no longer contributed substantively to the explanation of poor sleep. Conclusion Though perfectionism traits seem associated with poor sleep, the direct role of such traits seemed small, when mediating factors such as stress perception and emotion regulation were taken into account.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6a/a1/ndt-11-263.PMC4322891.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4003429", "abstract": "Purpose We previously conducted modelling and a patterns of care study (POCS) that showed gynaecological brachytherapy (BT) was underutilized in New South Wales (NSW), the USA and Western Europe. The aim of the current study was to assess the quality of cervical BT in NSW, and to determine if caseload affects quality of treatment delivery. Material and methods All nine NSW radiation oncology departments that treated patients with cervical BT in 2003 were visited. Patient, tumour and treatment related data were collected. Quality of BT was assessed using published quality benchmarks. Higher and lower caseload departments were compared. Results The four higher cervical BT caseload departments treated 11-15 NSW residents in 2003, compared to 1-8 patients for the lower caseload departments. Cervix cancer patients treated at the higher caseload departments were more likely to be treated to a point A dose ≥ 80 Gy (58", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/0a/JCB-6-22581.PMC4003429.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4469802", "abstract": "Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a complex clinical scenario of altered energy metabolism and increased fracture incidence. The C57BL/6 mouse model of diet-induced obesity has been used to study the mechanisms by which altered glucose homeostasis affects bone mass and quality, but genetic variations in substrains of C57BL/6 may have confounded data interpretation. This study investigated the long-term metabolic and skeletal consequences of two commonly used C57BL/6 substrains to a high fat (HF) diet. Male C57BL/6J, C57BL/6N, and the negative control strain, C3H/HeJ, mice were fed a control or HF diet for 24 wks. C57BL/6N mice on a HF diet demonstrated an increase in plasma insulin and blood glucose as early as 4 wk, whereas these responses were delayed in the C57BL/6J mice. The C57BL/6N mice exhibited more severe hepatic steatosis and inflammation. Only the C57BL/6N mice lost significant trabecular bone in response to the high fat diet. The C3H/HeJ mice were protected from bone loss. The data show that C57BL/6J and C57BL/6N mice differ in their metabolic and skeletal response when fed a HF diet. These substrain differences should be considered when designing experiments and are likely to have implications on data interpretation and reproducibility.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a5/6e/PMC4469802.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2943103", "abstract": "Persistence of Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157:H7 in the environment is a major concern to vegetable and fruit growers where farms and livestock production are in close proximity. The objectives were to determine the effects of preplant fumigation treatment on the survival of E. coli O157:H7 in two soils and the effects of indigenous bacterial populations on the survival of this pathogen. Real-time PCR and plate counts were used to quantify the survival of E. coli O157:H7 in two contrasting soils after fumigation with methyl bromide (MeBr) and methyl iodide (MeI). Ten days after fumigation, E. coli O157:H7 counts were significantly lower (P = .0001) in fumigated soils than in the non-fumigated. Direct comparison between MeBr and MeI within each soil indicated that these two fumigants showed similar impacts on E. coli O157:H7 survival. Microbial species diversity as determined by DGGE was significantly higher in clay soil than sandy soil and this resulted in higher initial decline in population in clay soil than in sandy soil. This study shows that if soil is contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, fumigation alone may not eliminate the pathogen, but may cause decrease in microbial diversity which may enhance the survival of the pathogen.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/15/c5/PMC2943103.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3370927", "abstract": "We have previously reported that peri-transplant conditioning leads to successful induction of renal allograft tolerance via the mixed chimerism approach in nonhuman primates (NHP) and humans. However, this strategy requires treatments beginning six days prior to transplantation, which limits its relevance only to living donor transplant recipients. To extend the clinical applicability of this approach, we developed a novel regimen “delayed tolerance,” with which the recipient initially undergoes organ transplantation with conventional immunosuppression, followed by conditioning and donor bone marrow transplantation (DBMT) at a later date. This approach might be likened to “planting flowers in a battle field.” That is, the recipient’s immunologic environment after organ transplantation is like a battlefield filled with hostile innate and adaptive immune-responses directed against donor antigeneic specificities. Implanting fragile donor hematopoietic progenitors into this environment and encouraging them to bloom in this vicious field requires special treatments.      In our NHP studies recently published in The American Journal of Transplantation, we showed that such “delayed tolerance,” in fact, can be induced in NHP through the mixed chimerism approach, if specific modifications to overcome/avoid donor-specific memory T cell responses are provided. These modifications include adequate depletion of CD8 memory T cells and timing of donor bone marrow administration to minimize levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This article addendum will provide a short summary of the original paper with our additional insights and interpretations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/8b/chim-3-24.PMC3370927.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4770241", "abstract": "A number of studies have demonstrated that various components of the ATRX/DAXX/Histone H3.3 complex are important for heterochromatin silencing at multiple genomic regions. We provide an overview of the individual components (ATRX, DAXX and/or H3.3) tested in each study and propose a model where the ATRX/DAXX chaperone complex deposits H3.3 to maintain the H3K9me3 modification at heterochromatin throughout the genome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/36/8d/gkw012.PMC4770241.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4310888", "abstract": "Introduction Many options exist for the surgical treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), including transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser surgery, and open adenomectomy. Recently, endoscopic techniques have been used in the treatment of BPH. Material and methods We reviewed clinical studies in PubMed describing minimally invasive endoscopic procedures for the treatment of BPH. Results Laparoscopic adenomectomy (LA) and robotic–assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) were introduced in the early 2000s. These operative techniques have been standardized and reproducible, with some individual modifications. Studies analyzing the outcomes of LA and RASP have reported significant improvements in urinary flow and decreases in patient International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). These minimally invasive approaches have resulted in a lower rate of complications, shorter hospital stays, smaller scars, faster recoveries, and an earlier return to work. Conclusions Minimally invasive techniques such as LA and RASP for the treatment BPH are safe, efficacious, and allow faster recovery. These procedures have a short learning curve and offer new options for the surgeon treating BPH.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0f/43/CEJU-67-00413.PMC4310888.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4484545", "abstract": "Mucormycoses are serious infections caused by filamentous fungi of the order Mucorales. They occur most often in immunocompromised patients. We report five cases of mucormycosis in patients hospitalized in the Infectious Diseases Department in Sousse – Tunisia between 2000 and 2013. They were 4 males and one female, mean age 60 years. Three patients were diabetic and one patient had acute leukemia. The locations of mucormycosis were rhinocerebral, rhino-orbital, auricular, pulmonary and cutaneous. The Mucorales isolated were Rhizopus arrhizus in 3 cases and Lichteimia in 2 cases. All patients were treated with amphotericin B and 2 patients had, in addition, surgical debridement. Two patients died and 2 kept peripheral facial paralysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/69/f1/main.PMC4484545.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2397475", "abstract": "ZAP-70 is a cytoplasmic protein tyrosine kinase that is required for T cell antigen receptor (TCR) signaling. Both mice and humans deficient in ZAP-70 fail to develop functional T cells, thus demonstrating its necessity for T cell development and function. There is currently no highly specific, cell-permeable, small molecule inhibitor for ZAP-70; therefore, we generated a mutant ZAP-70 allele that retains kinase activity but is sensitive to inhibition by a mutant-specific inhibitor. We validated the chemical genetic inhibitor system in Jurkat T cell lines, where the inhibitor blocked ZAP-70-dependent TCR signaling in cells expressing the analog-sensitive allele. Interestingly, the inhibitor also ablated CD28 superagonist signaling, thereby demonstrating the utility of this system in dissecting the requirement for ZAP-70 in alternative mechanisms of T cell activation. Thus, we have developed the first specific chemical means of inhibiting ZAP-70 in cells, which serves as a valuable tool for studying the function of ZAP-70 in T cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/80/15419.PMC2397475.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4736325", "abstract": "Synapses mediate communication between neurons and enable the brain to change in response to experience, which is essential for learning and memory. The sites of most excitatory synapses in the brain, dendritic spines, undergo rapid remodeling that is important for neural circuit formation and synaptic plasticity. Abnormalities in synapse and spine formation and plasticity are associated with a broad range of brain disorders, including intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and schizophrenia. Thus, elucidating the mechanisms that regulate these neuronal processes is critical for understanding brain function and disease. The brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor (BAI) subfamily of adhesion G-protein-coupled receptors (adhesion-GPCRs) has recently emerged as central regulators of synapse development and plasticity. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge regarding the roles of BAIs at synapses, highlighting their regulation, downstream signaling, and physiological functions, while noting the roles of other adhesion-GPCRs at synapses. We will also discuss the relevance of BAIs in various neurological and psychiatric disorders and consider their potential importance as pharmacological targets in the treatment of these diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/79/fb/PMC4736325.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5266453", "abstract": "Background: Screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) is an efficacious prevention practice. However, little research has assessed differences in prescreening outcomes between inpatient and outpatient primary care or among different prescreening administration methods. This study tested whether administration method (self-administered vs interview) and setting (inpatient versus outpatient) predicted prescreening outcomes in a large sample of primary care patients. Then, among patients who prescreened positive, it tested whether full screening scores differed by administration method and setting. Methods: Researchers used binomial logistic regression to assess predicted prescreening outcomes and analysis of variance to assess differences in SBIRT screening scores across a total of 14 447 unique patient visits in 10 outpatient sites and 1 centrally located hospital. Results: Controlling for gender, depression, and other substance use, both medical setting and method of prescreening, predicted prescreening results. Among patients who prescreened positive for alcohol, setting also was associated with mean screening scores. However, outcomes were not uniform by substance (eg, alcohol vs other drugs). Conclusion: The results support previous studies on this topic that had utilized cross-study comparison or that were not specific to SBIRT prescreening/screening mechanisms. At the same time, nuanced findings were observed that had not previously been reported and suggest the need for further research in this area.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/f0/10.1177_2333392815612476.PMC5266453.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4875562", "abstract": "Context The world health organization (WHO) recommends that all blood donations should be screened for evidence of infections, such as hepatitis B. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in blood donors at the eastern Mediterranean region office (EMRO) of the WHO and middle eastern countries. Evidence Acquisition A meta-analysis was carried out based on the results of an electronic literature search of PubMed, Ovid, Scopus, and Google Scholar for articles published from January 1, 2000, to August 31, 2015. In accordance with a significant homogeneity test and a large value of I2, the random effects model was used to aggregate data from the studies and produce the pooled estimates using the “Metan” command. Results We included 66 eligible studies. The pooled prevalence of HBsAg in blood donors of both EMRO and middle eastern (E and M) countries was 2.03", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/8d/hepatmon-16-03-35664.PMC4875562.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2989645", "abstract": " Aims. To determine whether the erythrocyte phosphorylated ribavirin (RBV) level might be a useful index of EVR and risk of anemia and to determine the optimal dose of RBV in 24 patients with hepatitis C with pegylated interferon and RBV. Methodology. The RBV level was measured by a high-performance liquid chromatography. Results and Conclusion. In patients aged 50 years or over, a negative correlation (r = −0.548, P < .05) was observed between the RBV level at week 2 and rate of Hb reduction (ΔHb) at week 4. The ΔHb at week 4 was significantly greater in patients with RBV levels of ≥800 μM (−25.5 ± 10.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/22/07/PMC2989645.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4826113", "abstract": "Stromal interaction molecules (STIM) 1 and 2 are sensors of the calcium concentration in the endoplasmic reticulum. Depletion of endoplasmic reticulum calcium stores activates STIM proteins which, in turn, bind and open calcium channels in the plasma membrane formed by the proteins ORAI1, ORAI2, and ORAI3. The resulting store-operated calcium entry (SOCE), mostly controlled by the principal components STIM1 and ORAI1, has been particularly characterized in immune cells. In the nervous system, all STIM and ORAI homologs are expressed. This review summarizes current knowledge on distribution and function of STIM and ORAI proteins in central neurons and glial cells, i.e. astrocytes and microglia. STIM2 is required for SOCE in hippocampal synapses and cortical neurons, whereas STIM1 controls calcium store replenishment in cerebellar Purkinje neurons. In microglia, STIM1, STIM2, and ORAI1 regulate migration and phagocytosis. The isoforms ORAI2 and ORAI3 are candidates for SOCE channels in neurons and astrocytes, respectively. Due to the role of SOCE in neuronal and glial calcium homeostasis, dysfunction of STIM and ORAI proteins may have consequences for the development of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/1c/kchl-09-05-1071747.PMC4826113.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2997506", "abstract": " Introduction. Manufactured Colas are consumed universally as soft drinks. Evidence about the acid contents of Cola-beverages and its effects on teeth is rare. Aim. To assess (i) cola acidity and buffering capacity in vitro, (ii) tooth erosion after swishing with colas in vivo (iii) scanning electron microscopic effects on teeth of colas, and tooth-brush abrasion, and (iv) report a clinical case of erosion from cola consumption. Materials and Methods. (i) We measured six commercially available pop “Cola beverages”, pH, and buffering capacities using a pH-Mettler Automatic Titrator, with weak solution of Sodium Hydroxide (ii) two cohorts, one with teeth, the second without teeth rinsed with aliquots of Cola for 60 seconds. Swished cola samples tested for calcium and phosphorus contents using standardized chemical analytical methods (iii) enamel, dentine, and the enamel-cemental junction from unerupted extracted wisdom teeth were examined with a scanning electron microscope after exposure to colas, and tested for tooth-brush abrasion; (iv) a clinical case of pop cola erosion presentation, are all described. Results. Comparisons among pop colas tested in vitro reveal high acidity with very low pH. Buffering capacities in millilitres of 0.5 M NaOH needed to increase one pH unit, to pH 5.5 and pH 7 are reported. Rinsing in vivo with pop cola causes leeching of calcium from teeth; SEM shows dental erosion, and pop-cola consumption induces advanced dental erosion and facilitates abrasion. Conclusions. (i) Pop-Cola acid activity is below the critical pH 5.5 for tooth dissolution, with high buffering capacities countering neutralization effects of saliva; (ii) calcium is leeched out of teeth after rinsing with pop colas; (iii) SEM evidence explains why chronic exposure to acid pop colas causes dental frangibles; (iv) a clinical case of pop-cola erosion confirms this.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/fc/PMC2997506.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3934435", "abstract": "Objective: To identify the types, frequency and impact of asthma triggers and the relationship to asthma control among adults with asthma in Europe. Methods: Adults with self-reported physician-diagnosed asthma receiving maintenance asthma treatment and self-reported exposure to known asthma triggers completed an online questionnaire; a subset completed a diary over 3–4 weeks. Information on asthma control (Asthma Control Test™ [ACT]), asthma triggers, frequency of exposure and behaviours in response or to avoid asthma triggers and the perceived impact on daily life was captured. A post-hoc analysis evaluated the impact of high trigger burden on the frequency of severe asthma exacerbations, hospitalisations and days lost at work/study. Results: A total of 1202 adults participated and 177 completed the diary. Asthma was uncontrolled for the majority (76", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2a/70/JAS-51-127.PMC3934435.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3395934", "abstract": "Objective This study investigates the effect of social and token economy reinforcements on academic achievement of 9th grade boy students with intellectual disabilities in an experimental science class in Tehran Province. Method The method used for this study was experimental by pre-test, post- test with a control group. The boy students with intellectual disabilities from three junior high schools participated in this study. The sample consisted of thirty, 9th grade boy students with intellectual disabilities in the selected schools; the schools were chosen by the multi-stage cluster method. To measure the progress of students in the science class, a teacher made test and the Wechsler intelligence test for matching the groups for IQ were used. To ensure validity, the content validity criteria depended tests calculated by the Lashe method and teachers' perspective were used. The reliability coefficient was obtained by the reliability coefficient of related tests; the percent agreement method and the obtained data were analyzed using one-way variance analysis and Shefe prosecution test. Results The results showed that there was a significant increase in academic achievement of students with intellectual disabilities when using token economy than using social reinforcements compared with the control group. Also, when using social reinforcements, the academic achievement of students was more than the control group. Conclusion Token economy and social reinforcements increased the academic achievement of students with intellectual disabilities in the science class; and also the effect of token economy reinforcements was more than social reinforcements on the subjects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/97/IJPS-6-25.PMC3395934.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3988621", "abstract": "Brucellosis is a systemic infection with multiple presentations. In spite of its oral mode of transmission and gastrointestinal pathogenesis, systemic symptoms are usually more prominent than gastrointestinal ones. Acute brucellosis presenting as gastroenteritis is rare in adults and could be the only manifestation of the disease. We report a case of gastroenteritis caused by Brucella species.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/35/17/PMC3988621.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4905833", "abstract": "Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) infection induces bovine leukemia in cattle and causes significant financial harm to farmers and farm management. There is no effective therapy or vaccine; thus, the diagnosis and elimination of BLV-infected cattle are the most effective method to eradicate the infection. Clinical veterinarians need a simpler and more rapid method of diagnosing infection, because both nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR are labor intensive, time-consuming, and require specialized molecular biology techniques and expensive equipment. In this study, we describe a novel PCR method for amplifying the BLV provirus from whole blood, thus eliminating the need for DNA extraction. Although the sensitivity of PCR directly from whole blood (PCR-DB) samples as measured in bovine blood containing BLV-infected cell lines was lower than that of nested PCR, the PCR-DB technique showed high specificity and reproducibility. Among 225 clinical samples, 49 samples were positive by nested PCR, and 37 samples were positive by PCR-DB. There were no false positive samples; thus, PCR-DB sensitivity and specificity were 75.51", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/11/jvms-78-791.PMC4905833.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3170802", "abstract": "Hepatocarcinogenesis-resistant DRH rats exhibit few and small preneoplastic hepatocytic lesions during hepatocarcinogenesis, of which traits have been assigned to two major chromosomal regions, Drh1 and Drh2. In this study, hepatocytes from DRH.F344-Drh1, a congenic strain in which the Drh1 chromosomal region was replaced with that of F344 rats, were compared to hepatocytes from Donryu (original strain), DRH, and F344 rats. Although DRH hepatocytes exhibited low proliferation and p38 dephosphorylation after lead nitrate (LN) treatment despite cytokine and Cox2 activation, DRH.F344-Drh1 hepatocytes exhibited high responses, as did Donryu and F344 hepatocytes. Moreover, although DRH hepatocytes were resistant to hepatotoxins, DRH.F344-Drh1 hepatocytes were as sensitive to hepatotoxins as Donryu and F344 hepatocytes. However, DRH.F344-Drh1 hepatocytes like DRH hepatocytes proliferated at lower rates in vitro and contained smaller nuclei than Donryu and F344 hepatocytes. Thus, low responses to LN and resistance to hepatotoxins in DRH hepatocytes were linked to the Drh1 locus, while low proliferation in vitro and small nuclear size were not linked to the Drh1 locus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9f/c6/PMC3170802.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4326273", "abstract": " Objective. To report on the incidence and factors associated with the development of perioperative neurological complications following CEA in patients affected by carotid stenosis with contralateral occlusion (CO) and to compare results between those patients and the whole group of patients submitted to CEA at our vascular division from 1997 to 2012. Methods. Our nonrandomized prospective experience including 1639 patients consecutively submitted to CEA was retrospectively reviewed. 136 patients presented a CO contralateral to the treated carotid stenosis. Outcomes considered for analysis were perioperative neurological death rates, major and minor stroke rates, and a combined endpoint of all neurological complications. Results. CO patients more frequently were male, smokers, younger, and symptomatic (P < 0.001), presented with a preoperative brain infarct and associated peripheral arterial disease (P < 0.0001), and presented with higher perioperative major stroke rate than patients without CO (4.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/88/e1/PMC4326273.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4839852", "abstract": "Abstract Fetal-type Minamata disease is caused by the exposure to high concentrations of methylmercury in the fetal period and shows cerebral palsy-like clinical features. Relief of spasticity is a major task of rehabilitation to improve their activities of daily living. Here we report the effect of long-term vibration therapy on bilateral lower-limb spasticity in 3 patients with fetal-type Minamata disease. We used a simple, inexpensive, and noninvasive approach with hand-held vibration massagers, which were applied to the plantar fascia at 90 Hz for 15 minutes. The effect was observed soon after the first treatment and resulted in better performance of the repetitive facilitation. Vibration therapy for 1 year improved Modified Ashworth Scale for the ankle flexors in 2 cases. The labored gait improved and gait speed increased in another case. Continued vibration therapy for another 1 year further improved Modified Ashworth Scale score and range of motion of ankle dorsiflexion in 1 case. This case showed the decreased amplitude of soleus H-reflex after the 15-minute vibration therapy, suggesting that α-motor neuron excitability was suppressed. Vibration therapy using a hand-held vibration massager may offer safe and effective treatment for lower-limb spasticity in patients with chronic neurological disorders.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/21/b6/medi-95-e3385.PMC4839852.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4499512", "abstract": "Purpose Currently, there are no recommendations for the management of a second local recurrence of prostate adenocarcinoma except for the introduction of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Case report A 69-year-old man underwent a third salvage local treatment with high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDRB), for a second biochemical relapse for local recurrence. Thirty-five Grays in 5 fractions were delivered on the whole prostate extended to the proximal part of left seminal vesicle. Given the availability of new treatment techniques in our radiation therapy department, a dosimetric comparison between HDRB and stereoatactic radiosurgery (SRS) was performed. Results Immediate tolerance of HDRB was acceptable with achievement of prostate specific antigen (PSA) nadir in 24 months (0.03 ng/ml). Observed late toxicities were only grade 2 urinary incontinence. Dosimetric comparison showed a slight advantage on clinical target volume coverage and rectum protection for the SRS. The HDRB showed an advantage on bone irradiation including femoral heads and the volume receiving 0.5 Gy (EQD2 = 1 Gy with α/β = 3). Conclusions A third local treatment with good tolerance could be a therapeutic option in case of a second local prostate cancer recurrence in order to delay, as long as possible, the chemical castration. Both techniques (HDRB and SRS) seem valid and should be chosen based on the availability and experience in a treatment center.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/70/JCB-7-25185.PMC4499512.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4563279", "abstract": "[Purpose] To evaluate the efficacy of our special rehabilitation method for patients with low back pain (LBP). [Subjects and Methods] All participants (n=33) received at least five individual 30-minute therapy sessions per week using the INFINITY method® and six group therapy sessions per week in a gymnasium and swimming pool, each lasting 30 minutes and including the INFINITY method®. The treatment lasted between four to seven weeks. Plantar function using a graphic method (computer plantography), graphical quantification of postural control during static standing (posturography), and pain were measured and evaluated before and after rehabilitation therapy. The INFINITY method® is a special rehabilitation method for patients with musculoskeletal problems. The method focuses on stabilization and strengthening of the trunk, dorsal and abdominal muscles, including the deep stabilization system which is closely linked with diaphragmatic breathing. It teaches the central nervous system to control muscles more precisely. [Results] Plantar functions, postural control in the upright stance and pain of LBP patients were significantly improved by 4−7 weeks of rehabilitation treatment with the INFINITY method®. There were significant differences in all measured dependent variables of the patients between before and after treatment. [Conclusion] Rehabilitation therapy with the INFINITY method® positively influences body stabilization and pain in patients with problems of the lumbar spine. This method presents a new improved approach (with enhanced effect) to rehabilitation therapy for LBP patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/f2/jpts-27-2413.PMC4563279.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3319783", "abstract": "Tuberculosis primarily affecting the appendix is extremely rare and the diagnosis is difficult. Here, we report the case of a 14-year-old healthy boy presenting with right lower quadrant abdominal pain. On computed tomography, the distended appendix with 3.3 × 2.7 cm mass located at the right side of the right iliac artery was detected. There was neither bowel wall thickening nor active lung lesion. After laparoscopic appendectomy with mass excision, histopathological examination revealed chronic granulomatous inflammation, with caseous necrosis of the appendix. We made a diagnosis of primary tuberculosis of appendix and administrated anti-tuberculosis medication.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/41/jkss-82-266.PMC3319783.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4745506", "abstract": "This study is aimed to assess the suitability of T. aestivum wheat milled products and its combinations with T. durum semolina with additives such as ascorbic acid, vital gluten and HPMC (Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose) for pasta processing quality characteristics such as pasta dough rheology, microstructure, cooking quality, and sensory evaluation. Rheological studies showed maximum dough stability in Comb1 (T. aestivum wheat flour and semolina). Colour and cooking quality of Comb2 (T. durum semolina and T. aestivum wheat flour) and Comb3 (T. aestivum wheat semolina and T. durum semolina) were comparable with control. Pasting results indicated that T. aestivum semolina gave the lowest onset gelatinization temperature (66.9°C) but the highest peak viscosity (1.053 BU). Starch release was maximum in Comb1 (53.45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/6e/PMC4745506.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5087808", "abstract": "Somatostatin analogs (SSAs), which were initially used to control hormonal syndromes associated with neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs), have been successfully proposed as antiproliferative agents, able to control tumor growth in patients affected by gastroenteropancreatic (GEP)-NENs. The development of long-acting formulations of SSAs which require only weekly or monthly injections can improve patient compliance. In particular, lanreotide (LAN) Autogel®, which is a viscous aqueous formulation supplied in ready-to-use prefilled syringes, can be administered every 28–56 days. Since its introduction in the clinical practice, several studies evaluated the clinical utility of LAN Autogel in the medical treatment of GEP-NENs. Although there is no evidence of an overall survival benefit, these studies confirm the efficacy of LAN Autogel in terms of benefit in progression-free survival, and in more than half of cases, a reduction of tumor markers can be observed during treatment with this drug. Moreover, LAN Autogel is widely recognized to be effective in controlling tumor-related symptoms in the majority of patients affected by GEP tumors, especially in patients affected by carcinoid syndrome, improving considerably patients’ quality of life.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e5/03/dddt-10-3459.PMC5087808.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3682264", "abstract": "Currently, the major issue in glycemic control in neurocritical care patients is that tight glycemic control (target range of 80 to 110 mg/dL) using intensive insulin therapy is associated with higher rates of hypoglycemia without an improvement in survival rate. The review by Kramer and colleagues in this issue of Critical Care confirms these data but provides solid evidence about the relationship between hyperglycemia and worsened neurological outcome after acute brain injury. In accordance with the conclusions of Kramer and colleagues, we recommend that a glucose control goal in neurocritical care patients be in the 'moderate' target range (110 to 180 mg/dL). In addition, we recommend adequate nutrition before and during insulin infusion, avoidance of insulin as a bolus, and the use of continuous insulin infusion, beginning with low doses with titration to individual sensitivity. Careful and accurate glycemic monitoring is especially important when insulin is infused.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/34/PMC3682264.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4395661", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to analyze muscle activation during hip flexion in the supine position to examine the activation characteristics of the rectus abdominis and rectus femoris. [Subjects] The subjects of this study were 20 healthy adults (10 males and 10 females). [Methods] Muscle activities of the rectus abdominis and rectus femoris while raising the leg from 0°–60° were measured in 15-degree divisions and their ratio was calculated. [Results] Statistically significant differences were found in the muscle activities of the rectus femoris and rectus abdominis were found among each division of during hip flexion in the supine position. The rectus abdominis and rectus femoris ratios increased as the angle of hip flexion increased. [Conclusion] During hip flexion from 0°–45° in the supine position, femur motion caused hip flexion. At angles greater than or equal to 45° hip flexion was accompanied by pelvic motion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d8/f5/jpts-27-549.PMC4395661.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2915645", "abstract": "The recent recognition of neurocysticercosis as a major cause of epilepsy in Uganda and changes in pig demography have lead to a need to better understand the basic epidemiology of Taenia solium infections in pigs and humans. Human exposure is a function of the size of the animal reservoir of this zoonosis. This is the first field survey for porcine cysticercosis to investigate the prevalence of antigen-positive pigs across an entire rural district of south-east Uganda. In our field surveys, 8.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7c/aa/PMC2915645.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3149120", "abstract": "Brief hypomania lasting less than 4 days may impair functioning and help to detect bipolarity. This study analyzed brief hypomania that occurred in patients with bipolar disorder who were diagnosed according to the DSM-IV criteria. Daily self-reported mood ratings were obtained from 393 patients (247 bipolar I and 146 bipolar II) for 6 months (75,284 days of data, mean 191.6 days). Episodes of hypomania were calculated using a 4, 3, 2, and single day length criterion. Brief hypomania occurred frequently. With a decrease in the minimum criterion from 4 days to 2 days, there were almost twice as many patients with an episode of hypomania (102 vs. 190), and more than twice as many episodes (305 vs. 863). Single days of hypomania were experienced by 271 (69", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0a/95/406_2010_Article_187.PMC3149120.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3531636", "abstract": "Purpose We present our initial experience and surgical outcomes for the most recent refinement of bilateral intrafascial nerve-sparing extraperitoneal laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (nsELRP). Materials and Methods Among 62 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, 50 patients underwent intrafascial nsELRP by a single surgeon at Pusan National University Hospital from November 2011 to April 2012. As part of the intrafascial technique, the dissection plane is directly on the prostatic capsule to preserve most of the periprostatic fascia containing small vessels and nerves, endopelvic fascia, neurovascular bundle, and puboprostatic ligament. Postoperative continence recovery was established by daily consumption of pads. Follow-up was done at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months after surgery. Results The patients' mean age was 66.5±6.2 years. The mean operation time and mean blood loss were 149.3±28.1 minutes and 155.4±168.1 ml, respectively. The mean hospitalization time and mean catheterization time were 6.3±5.1 days and 5.5±4.7 days, respectively. Two weeks after the operation, a total of 14 patients (28.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c7/a9/kju-53-836.PMC3531636.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3638702", "abstract": " Introduction. Internal nasal valve incompetence (INVI) has been treated with various surgical methods. Large, single surgeon case series are lacking, meaning that the evidence supporting a particular technique has been deficient. We present a case series using alar batten grafts to reconstruct the internal nasal valve, all performed by the senior author. Methods. Over a 7-year period, 107 patients with nasal obstruction caused by INVI underwent alar batten grafting. Preoperative assessment included the use of nasal strips to evaluate symptom improvement. Visual analogue scale (VAS) assessment of nasal blockage (NB) and quality of life (QOL) both pre- and postoperatively were performed and analysed with the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results. Sixty-seven patients responded to both pre- and postoperative questionnaires. Ninety-one percent reported an improvement in NB and 88", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/d5/PMC3638702.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5103689", "abstract": "Osteopetrosis is a rare bone disease caused by metabolic imbalances as a result of genetic mutations. For instance, autosomal dominant osteopetrosis is caused by a missense mutation of the C1CN7 gene. This was first reported in 1904 and is thought to be caused by osteoclastic dysfunction and an impaired bone resorption ability. An accumulation of cortical bone mass during the remodeling of the medullary bone may increase the bone density and give rise to a hard marble consistency. Osteopetrosis can be divided into benign and malignant forms; however, no curative treatment exists for benign osteopetrosis. The management of complications, such as chronic osteomyelitis and fractures, serves a key role in influencing the patient survival rates. Previous studies have demonstrated that a combined treatment of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) lavage for debridement of the necrotic region and high-dose systemic antibiotics may be effective in the management of osteopetrosis. The present study reported a case of chronic mandible osteomyelitis and fistula occurring in association with maxillary sinusitis, who was successfully treated by through nasal endoscopy, using repeated flushing and cleaning every 2 weeks as a form of debridement, in the absence of high-dose antibiotics and HBO.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/dd/etm-12-05-2811.PMC5103689.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5143744", "abstract": "Hepatic fibrosis, characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins leading to liver dysfunction, is a growing cause of mortality worldwide. Hepatocellular damage owing to liver injury leads to the release of profibrotic factors from infiltrating inflammatory cells that results in the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Upon activation, HSCs undergo characteristic morphological and functional changes and are transformed into proliferative and contractile ECM-producing myofibroblasts. Over recent years, a number of therapeutic strategies have been developed to inhibit hepatocyte apoptosis, inflammatory responses, and HSCs proliferation and activation. Preclinical studies have yielded numerous targets for the development of antifibrotic therapies, some of which have entered clinical trials and showed improved therapeutic efficacy and desirable safety profiles. Furthermore, advancements have been made in the development of noninvasive markers and techniques for the accurate disease assessment and therapy responses. Here, we focus on the clinical developments attained in the field of targeted antifibrotics for the treatment of liver fibrosis, for example, small molecule drugs, antibodies, and targeted drug conjugate. We further briefly highlight different noninvasive diagnostic technologies and will provide an overview about different therapeutic targets, clinical trials, endpoints, and translational efforts that have been made to halt or reverse the progression of liver fibrosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c3/78/PMC5143744.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3389056", "abstract": "The styloid process is a cylindrical, long cartilaginous bone located on the temporal bone. The calcified stylohyoid ligament and elongated styloid process can be identified radiographically, and they are associated with a number of syndromes and symptoms. The exact cause of the styloid process elongation due to calcification and subsequent ossification of ligament is unclear. This report presents a case of severely calcified stylohyoid ligament complex occurred in twins who have the same pattern of calcification.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c6/17/isd-42-95.PMC3389056.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5064838", "abstract": "Abstract We characterized 549 new human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and class II alleles found in newly registered stem cell donors as a result of high‐throughput HLA typing. New alleles include 101 HLA‐A, 132 HLA‐B, 105 HLA‐C, 2 HLA‐DRB1, 89 HLA‐DQB1 and 120 HLA‐DPB1 alleles. Mainly, new alleles comprised single nucleotide variations when compared with homologous sequences. We identified nonsynonymous nucleotide mutations in 70.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/ac/TAN-87-31.PMC5064838.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4942713", "abstract": "Spinal cord injuries (SCI) result in the loss of movement and sensory feedback as well as organs dysfunctions. For example, nearly all SCI subjects loose their bladder control and are prone to kidney failure if they do not proceed to intermittent (self-) catheterization. Electrical stimulation of the sacral spinal roots with an implantable neuroprosthesis is a promising approach, with commercialized products, to restore continence and control micturition. However, many persons do not ask for this intervention since a surgical deafferentation is needed and the loss of sensory functions and reflexes become serious side effects of this procedure. Recent results renewed interest in spinal cord stimulation. Stimulation of existing pre-cabled neural networks involved in physiological processes regulation is suspected to enable synergic recruitment of spinal fibers. The development of direct spinal stimulation strategies aiming at bladder and bowel functions restoration would therefore appear as a credible alternative to existent solutions. However, a lack of suitable large animal model complicates these kinds of studies. In this article, we propose a new animal model of spinal stimulation -pig- and will briefly introduce results from one first acute experimental validation session.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e6/4c/ejtm-2016-2-6034.PMC4942713.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4386108", "abstract": "We present the case of a 71-year-old male, admitted after a generalized tonic-clonic seizure, with a history of recurrent left arm and face paresthesias, associated with sulcal cortical subarachnoid hemorrhages. During the next 48 h, he remained agitated with a high blood pressure profile; he also suffered a cardiac arrest in relation to a severe left fronto-parietal and a smaller right parietal parenchymal hemorrhage that developed over the subarachnoid hemorrhage locations. There were no intracranial vascular abnormalities. Three months later, an MRI revealed disseminated superficial siderosis. He was discharged with a modified Rankin scale of 4. He died 1 month later of unknown cause. A diagnosis of probable cerebral amyloid angiopathy was assumed. Patients with pathologically proven cerebral amyloid angiopathy that present with transient focal neurological symptoms in relation to cortical bleeds, the so-called ‘myloid spells’ seem to be at an increased risk of future parenchymal hemorrhages. Avoiding antiplatelet agents in these cases has been proposed. Our case suggests that these patients should be monitored closely in the hyperacute phase, and tight blood pressure control should be considered as the immediate risk of bleeding may be high, even without a definitive diagnosis of cerebral amyloid angiopathy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a4/44/crn-0007-0039.PMC4386108.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3742360", "abstract": "Since infection with Helicobacter pylori has been suggested to play a pathogenic role in diabetes mellitus, we investigated whether eradication therapy for H. pylori might affect glycemic control in Japanese subjects with type 2 diabetes. A total of 72 subjects (55 males, 17 females; aged 63.7 years) with type 2 diabetes who received eradication therapy for H. pylori were included. The change of their blood glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) levels 3 months before (−3 m) the H. pylori eradication, as well as 3 months (3 m) and 6 months (6 m) after were evaluated. Their A1C levels did not show any significant change after therapy 6.9 [0.1]", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b8/57/PMC3742360.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2846350", "abstract": "The acute treatment of mice with an ethanolic extract from the seed pod of Dioclea grandiflora (EDgP) at doses of 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg by intraperitoneal administration produced a significant antinociceptive effect as displayed by the acetic acid-induced writhing test and the formalin test. The antinociception was observed through the first (neurogenic pain) and second (inflammatory pain) phases in the formalin test. The hot plate test did not show an increase in the antinociceptive latency whereas the motor performance was affected by the administration at 300 mg/kg at the beginning (30 minutes) of the observation period but not at later periods (60 and 120 minutes). These results suggest that EDgP has a central antinociceptive action and a possible anti-inflammatory activity in mice.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f9/e0/PMC2846350.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4057031", "abstract": "Improving the quality of oral hygiene is recognised as an important counter measure for reducing the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia amongst critically ill patients. Toothbrushing physically disrupts the dental plaque that acts as a reservoir for pulmonary infection and therefore has the potential to reduce the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Gu and colleagues performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of oral hygiene with and without a toothbrush and found no difference in the incidence of pneumonia in mechanically ventilated patients. The diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia is prone to bias and future studies of oral care interventions should focus on measures of oral cleanliness such as plaque and gingival scores. Once the optimal strategy for oral hygiene is defined in the critically ill, larger studies focussing on ventilator-associated pneumonia or mortality can be conducted.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/be/PMC4057031.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2806448", "abstract": "The progressive rise in the prevalence of allergic diseases since the 1970s is widely attributed to diminished exposure to microbial stimuli, resulting in dysregulated immune functions during early life. Most studies investigating the mechanism behind this phenomenon have focused on postnatal microbial exposure. But emerging evidence suggests that such programming may also occur in the developing fetus as a result of microbial stimulation of the pregnant mother.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/de/0e/JEM_20092469.PMC2806448.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4421462", "abstract": "There is an ongoing increase in the number of elderly or frail patients requiring renal replacement therapy. Assisted automated peritoneal dialysis (aAPD) is one treatment option for this patient group and is becoming increasingly recognized as a distinct dialysis modality. In this article, we review the current status of aAPD and its evolution across Europe, describing the differences in service provision. We also report our experience locally of outcomes on our aAPD population over the last 4 years. We found that aAPD is a viable dialysis modality in the frail and elderly with limited lifespan, and complications of peritoneal dialysis are perhaps lower than would be expected in this population. This form of therapy also avoids the disruption to life which results from hospital-based dialysis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e2/13/sfr130.PMC4421462.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3932198", "abstract": "Aging associated changes in liver include reduced hepatic blood flow, increased number of stellate cells, and collagen deposits in perisinusoidal space. We tested the possibility of mitigating these changes with caloric restriction. Two-month-old mice were subjected to 30 percent caloric restriction for 12 months and then examined for the effect of caloric restriction on the sinusoidal network, collagen deposition, and the number of stellate cells. Using intravital fluorescence microscopy, assessments were made on sinusoidal diameter, density, volumetric flow, perfusion index, and autofluorescence of vitamin A that was primarily stored with lipid droplets in stellate cells. A significant effect was observed in the vitamin A autofluorescence of stellate cells; stellate cell associated fluorescence was diminished in terms of number and size of fluorescent spots. Caloric restriction reduced collagen deposits in liver sections and lowered the gene expression of α1-(I) collagen but not α-smooth muscle actin. No differences were detected in sinusoidal dimension measurements. Our results showed that caloric restriction was effective in ameliorating the increase in stellate cells and the mild fibrosis in old mice. However, caloric restriction had no impact on stellate cell activity level as indicated by the unaffected α-smooth muscle actin expression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/93/b7/PMC3932198.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4305603", "abstract": "[Purpose] The effect of turn direction and relation between turn performance and walking ability in patients with hemiparetic stroke is not clear. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of turn direction on the performance of standing turns and to examine the relations between turn performance and walking ability in patients with hemiparetic stroke. [Subject and Methods] The participants were 38 outpatients with chronic hemiparesis due to stroke. Turn performance was evaluated using the time and number of steps required to complete a 360° standing turn, and was evaluated for turns toward the paretic side and the non-paretic side. Walking ability was assessed using gait speed in the 10-m walk test, the Timed Up and Go test, and the Functional Ambulation Category. [Results] Thirty-six participants were analyzed, and the time needed for turns and number of steps were similar for turns to the paretic and non-paretic sides. The time needed for turns was correlated walking ability. A turn time of 10.0 s distinguished FAC 5 (independent ambulation in the community) from FAC ≤4 with a sensitivity of 0.94 and specificity of 0.85. [Conclusion] The performance of standing turns was not affected by the turning direction and was closely correlated with walking ability.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7b/3f/jpts-27-75.PMC4305603.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2646576", "abstract": "The disproportionate increase in oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) compared with systemic and vaginal candidiasis in female patients with AIDS has been a paradox for almost three decades. New data now show that severe OPC develops in Th17-deficient mice, but not Th1-deficient mice, implicating Th17-induced effector molecules in resistance to oral disease. These findings clarify and extend our current thinking about how CD4 T cell deficiency influences susceptibility to OPC.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/b6/JEM_20090093.PMC2646576.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3142684", "abstract": "The objective of this study was to assess the importance of select cultured and uncultured bacteria in the rumen by quantifying their populations and the effect of diets and ruminal fractions. Full-length 16S rRNA gene (rrs) sequences were recovered from rumen samples using specific primers designed from partial sequences recovered previously. Five uncultured bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were quantified using specific quantitative PCR (qPCR) in fractionated ruminal samples from sheep fed either hay alone or hay plus corn. Species Fibrobacter succinogenes, Ruminococcus albus, R. flavefaciens, Ruminobacter amylophilus, Selenomonas ruminantium, and Mitsuokella multacida and genera Butyrivibrio and Prevotella were also quantified as comparison. The full-length rrs sequence improved taxonomic assignments of partial rrs sequences. Genus Prevotella had the greatest abundance. Of the three major cultured cellulolytic species, R. flavefaciens was most abundant, followed by R. albus and F. succinogenes. The five uncultured bacterial OTUs, classified to genus Acetivibrio, genus Allobaculum, family Ruminococcaceae, order Clostridiales, or class Clostridia, had abundance comparable to that of the above species of genera except Prevotella. Corn supplementation and fractions affected distribution of the rumen bacteria, but to a limited extent. When compared to the qPCR data, sequence frequencies in the rrs clone libraries tended to overestimate the abundance of the bacteria represented. This study showed that abundance and population dynamics of uncultured bacteria can be quantified by specific qPCR, which complements the results of rrs clone libraries. This study also revealed that some uncultured bacteria might be as important as some of the well-characterized bacteria in the rumen. The approach used should be applicable to assess the abundance and potential importance of uncultured bacteria in other environments.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d7/f7/PMC3142684.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4006215", "abstract": "Background Traumatic bone cyst (TBC) is an uncommon non-epithelial lined cavity of the jaws. Traumatic bone cysts have been reported in the literature under a variety of names: solitary bone cyst, haemorrhagic bone cyst, extravasation cyst and simple bone cyst. The multitude of names applied to this lesion implies the lack of understanding of the true aetiology and pathogenesis. However, the term “traumatic bone cyst” is the most widely used name today. Case Details A 15 years old male patient presented with a complaint of swelling with mild, intermittent and non-radiating pain in the lower left back teeth region. There was expansion of the buccal cortical plate. Radiograph showed a multilocular lesion straddling between the roots of the teeth. In addition, 21 years old male patient came with a complaint of swelling with mild, continuous pain in the lower left jaw region. OPG showed well defined radiolucency with scalloped borders extending from the periapical region of the 1st premolar until the 2nd molar. The radiolucency was seen extending between the roots of the involved teeth. Conclusion The majority of TBCs are located in the mandibular body between the canine and the third molar. Clinically, the lesion is asymptomatic in the majority of cases and is often accidentally discovered on routine radiological examination, usually as a unilocular radiolucent area with a “scalloping effect”. Since material for histologic examination may be scanty or non-available it is very often difficult for a definite histologic diagnosis to be achieved.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/66/9a/PMC4006215.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2827775", "abstract": "An esophagorespiratory fistula (ERF) is an often fatal consequence of esophageal or bronchogenic carcinomas. The preferred treatment is placement of esophageal and/or airway stents. Stent placement must be performed as quickly as possible since patients with ERFs are at a high risk for aspiration pneumonia. In this review, choice of stents and stenting area, fistula reopening and its management, and the long-term outcome in the interventional management of malignant ERFs are considered. Lastly, a review of esophagopulmonary fistulas will also be provided.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/11/5a/kjr-11-133.PMC2827775.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5323304", "abstract": "Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic, idiopathic, inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. In rare cases, CD has been associated with Hirschsprung's disease (HD); however, the underlying pathophysiology of this and other comorbidities is not yet fully understood. In this report, we describe the case of a 17-year-old patient who was diagnosed with both CD and ankylosing spondylitis (AS), having undergone a long ileo-colonic anastomosis to treat HD at 12 months of age. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of CD combined with AS in a patient with HD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/46/16/ir-15-133.PMC5323304.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4854745", "abstract": "Objectives: Saliva plays an important role in prevention of dental caries. Neutrophils are the first defense mechanism of the immune system. Interleukins (ILs) can regulate the activity of neutrophils. This study aimed to assess the neutrophil count and level of IL-lβ and IL-8 in the saliva of children with and without dental caries. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was performed on 90 preschool children between three to five years. Children were divided into three groups of caries-free, early childhood caries (ECC) and severe early childhood caries (S-ECC). Saliva was collected in tubes by the spitting method. Neutrophil count was assessed by Giemsa staining and the levels of IL-lβ and IL-8 in the saliva were assessed using ELISA. Data were analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis and post hoc Games-Howell test. Results: The mean levels of IL-1β and IL-8 and the mean neutrophil count in the caries free group were found to be 59.2± 59.15 pg/mL, 86.04± 96.12 pg/mL and 1342.66± 2222.412 pg/mL, respectively. These values were 36.78± 40.88 pg/mL, 76.12± 107.01 pg/mL and 2500± 3834.61 pg/mL in the ECC group and 48.75±47 pg/mL, 76.77± 70.63 pg/mL and 2353.1± 4583.81 pg/mL in the S-ECC group, respectively. There were no significant differences among the three groups in terms of the levels of IL-1β, IL-8 or the neutrophil count (P>0.05). Conclusion: Since no significant difference was noted in the salivary levels of IL-1β and IL-8 or the neutrophil count among the groups, development of dental caries may be related to neutrophil chemotaxis defect.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/44/PMC4854745.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3312385", "abstract": "Disorganisation and aggregation of proteins containing expanded polyglutamine (polyQ) repeats, or ectopic expression of α-synuclein, underlie neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's, Parkinson, Huntington, Creutzfeldt diseases. Small heat-shock proteins, such as αB-crystallin, act as chaperones to prevent protein aggregation and play a key role in the prevention of such protein disorganisation diseases. In this study, we have explored the potential for chaperone activity of αB-crystallin to suppress the formation of protein aggregates. We tested the ability of αB-crystallin to suppress the aggregation of a polyQ protein and α-synuclein in Drosophila. We found that αB-crystallin suppresses both the compound eye degeneration induced by polyQ and the α-synuclein-induced rough eye phenotype. Furthermore, by using histochemical staining we have determined that αB-crystallin inhibits the aggregation of polyQ in vivo. These data provide a clue for the development of therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/04/24/PMC3312385.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1852901", "abstract": " Background. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency for which prompt diagnosis and treatment are imperative to reducing the rate of death and long-term neurologic compromise. Few cases of meningitis have been reported during pregnancy, many of which had devastating outcomes for mother, neonate, or both. Case. A 38-year-old multigravida at 35 weeks of gestation presented with mental status changes, fever, and preterm contractions. Lumbar puncture revealed gram positive cocci consistent with S. pneumoniae. Patient was intubated and admitted to ICU where she was given antibiotics and adjunctive therapy with dexamethasone. Continuous fetal monitoring was utilized throughout her course of her hospitalization. Patient was discharged home after ten days in the hospital and had an uncomplicated vaginal birth after caesarean section (VBAC) at 38 weeks. Both she and the infant are doing well with no permanent neurologic sequelae. Conclusion. A review of literature indicates only isolated cases of pneumococcal meningitis being described during pregnancy. An extended period of time between onset of maternal illness and delivery appears to reduce the risk of neonatal transmission and improve both maternal and fetal outcomes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/67/PMC1852901.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3138917", "abstract": "This is a case report about benign metastasizing leiomyoma with multiple lymph node metastasis. A 34-year-old woman received an abdominal myomectomy for a suspicious leiomyoma. On the pathology report, atypical leiomyoma was suspected. Due to the suspicion of multiple lymph node metastasis on pelvis computed tomography (CT) 1 year after the operation, she was transferred to the Samsung Medical Center on October, 2009 for further work up. According to original slide review, it was determined to be a benign leiomyoma with a mitotic count <5/10 high-power fields, little cytological atypia and no tumor cell necrosis. Additional immunostaining was done. Multiple lymph node metastasis and a small lung nodule were identified on positron emission tomogarphy-CT and chest CT. Extensive debulking surgery and diagnostic video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) wedge resection were subsequently done. Metastatic lesions were reported to have a histology similar to that of the original mass. VATS right upper lobectomy with mediastinal lymph node dissection was performed because of the pathology result of VATS (adenocarcinoma). She started taking an aromatase inhibitor (Letrozole®) and there was no evidence of recurrence of disease on an imaging study and no post-operative complications until recently.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/b4/crt-43-131.PMC3138917.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3723151", "abstract": " Backgrounds. Calcium (Ca) and bone metabolism in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and hemodialysis (HD) patients show a remarkable difference depending on dialysis modalities. The levels of serum Ca and phosphate (P) in HD patients fluctuate contributing to the intermittent and rapid removal of plasma solute unlike in CAPD. Characteristics of plasma solute transport in automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) patients are resembled with that in HD. The purpose of the present study was to examine the difference of transperitoneal Ca removal between APD and CAPD anuric patients. Subjects and Methods. Twenty-three APD anuric patients were enrolled in this study. Biochemical parameters responsible for transperitoneal Ca removal in 24-hour and 4-hour peritoneal effluents were analyzed on CAPD and APD. Results. Transperitoneal Ca removal on APD was smaller compared with that on CAPD. The Ca removal was related to the ultrafiltration during short-time dwell. Decrease of the Ca removal during NPD induced by short-time dialysate dwell caused negative or small Ca removal in APD patients. The levels of intact PTH were increased at the end of PET. Conclusion. It appears that short-time dwell and frequent dialysate exchanging might suppress the transperitoneal Ca removal in anuric APD patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/7b/PMC3723151.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2948741", "abstract": "Objectives: The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between the maxillary sinus floor and the maxillary posterior teeth root tips using dental cone-beam CT. Methods: A total of 87 right and 89 left maxillary sinus regions from 92 patients were examined using dental cone-beam CT. Images were analyzed by a specialist in oral and maxillofacial radiology. Perpendicular lines were drawn on the cross-sectional images between the deepest point of the maxillary sinus floor and the root tips of the maxillary first and second premolars and first, second and third molars, and the distances were measured using built-in measurement tools. Means, standard deviations and minimum and maximum values were calculated for all right and left premolars and molars. T-tests were used to compare measurements between left and right sides and between female and male patients. Results: The distance between sinus floor and root tip was longest for the first premolar root tip and shortest for the second molar buccodistal root tip for both right and left sides. No statistically significant differences were found between the right and left side measurements or between female and male patients (P>.05). Conclusions: Knowledge of the anatomical relationship between the maxillary sinus floor and the maxillary posterior teeth root tips is important for the preoperative treatment planning of maxillary posterior teeth.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/78/PMC2948741.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3309524", "abstract": "The apparent duration of a visual stimulus has been shown to be influenced by its speed. For low speeds, apparent duration increases linearly with stimulus speed. This effect has been ascribed to the number of changes that occur within a visual interval. Accordingly, a higher number of changes should produce an increase in apparent duration. In order to test this prediction, we asked subjects to compare the relative duration of a 10-Hz drifting comparison stimulus with a standard stimulus that contained a different number of changes in different conditions. The standard could be static, drifting at 10 Hz, or mixed (a combination of variable duration static and drifting intervals). In this last condition the number of changes was intermediate between the static and the continuously drifting stimulus. For all standard durations, the mixed stimulus looked significantly compressed (∼20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/db/fpsyg-03-00090.PMC3309524.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4056622", "abstract": "There is growing interest in the potential neuroprotective properties of gelsolin. In particular, plasma-type gelsolin (pGSN) can ameliorate deleterious inflammatory response by scavenging pro-inflammatory signals such as actin and lipopolysaccharide. In a recent issue of Critical Care, Pan and colleagues report an important association between pGSN and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) disease severity, and found pGSN to be a novel and promising biomarker for SAH clinical outcome. Previous research shows pGSN may be actively degraded by neurovascular proteases such as matrix metalloproteinases in the cerebral spinal fluid of SAH patients. Taken together, these results suggest that pGSN is not only a novel marker of SAH clinical outcome, but may also play an active mechanistic role in SAH, and potentially serve as a future therapeutic target.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/35/20/PMC4056622.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5287432", "abstract": "Food and agriculture commodity boards have become important funders of nutrition research. There are benefits and cautions (biases toward health benefits, failure to publish negative results, and aggressive promotion of single studies) for this activity. The California Dried Plum Board, along with other commodity boards, have developed independent Scientific Nutrition Advisory Panels to guide and evaluate the research they fund. In the case of the California Dried Plum Board, this has resulted in research that has distinguished the nature and dose of dried plum and juice to maintain bowel health and opened up a surprising new function for dried plum in the prevention of age-related bone loss.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/ad/nt-52-19.PMC5287432.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3317183", "abstract": "This paper reviews the evidence supporting the use of etiological treatment for Chagas disease that has changed the standard of care for patients with Trypanosoma cruzi infection in the last decades. Implications of this evidence on different levels of prevention as well as gaps in current knowledge are also discussed. In this regard, etiological treatment has shown to be beneficial as an intervention for secondary prevention to successfully cure the infection or to delay, reduce, or prevent the progression to disease, and as primary disease prevention by breaking the chain of transmission. Timely diagnosis during initial stages would allow for the prescription of appropriate therapies mainly in the primary health care system thus improving chances for a better quality of life. Based on current evidence, etiological treatment has to be considered as an essential public health strategy useful to reduce disease burden and to eliminate Chagas disease altogether.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d6/b9/PMC3317183.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4206478", "abstract": "Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a subtle disorder of thought processes, which may influence isolated domains of cognition and has a significant impact on patient health. The reported incidence of POCD varies enormously due to lack of formal criteria for the assessment and diagnosis of POCD. The significant risk factors of developing POCD mainly include larger and more invasive operations, duration of anesthesia, advanced age, history of alcohol abuse, use of anticholinergic medications, and other factors. The release of cytokines due to the systemic stress response caused by anesthesia and surgical procedures might induce the changes of brain function and be involved in the development of postoperative cognitive dysfunction. The strategies for management of POCD should be a multimodal approach involving close cooperation between the anesthesiologist, surgeon, geriatricians, and family members to promote early rehabilitation and avoid loss of independence in these patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ce/06/PMC4206478.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2694627", "abstract": "Citrin is a liver-type mitochondrial aspartate-glutamate carrier encoded by the SLC25A13 gene, and its deficiency causes adult-onset type II citrullinemia and neonatal intrahepatic cholestasis caused by citrin deficiency (NICCD). Here, the authors investigated clinical findings in Korean infants with NICCD and performed mutation analysis on the SLC25A13 gene. Of 47 patients with neonatal cholestasis, three infants had multiple aminoacidemia (involving citrulline, methionine, and arginine) and galactosemia, and thus were diagnosed as having NICCD. Two of these three showed failure to thrive. The laboratory findings showed hypoproteinemia and hyperammonemia, and liver biopsies revealed micro-macrovesicular fatty liver and cholestasis. The three patients each harbored compound heterozygous 1,638-1,660 dup/ S225X mutation, compound heterozygous 851del4/S225X mutation, and heterozygous 1,638-1,660 dup mutation, respectively. With nutritional manipulation, liver functions were normalized and catch-up growth was achieved. NICCD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cholestatic jaundice in Korean infants.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/da/jkms-22-952.PMC2694627.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4713785", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study aimed to investigate the effect of the activities of daily living status on resuming driving after stroke. [Subjects] Thirty-one participants with stroke, who visited in Korean national rehabilitation centers, were included in this study. [Methods] The activities of daily living performance and the driving ability of the participants were assessed with the Korean-Modified Barthel Index in combination with the results obtained by using a driving simulator. [Results] Significant correlations were noted among the Korean-Modified Barthel Index, on-road driving total score, reaction time, speed anticipation tests, judgment tests, and steering wheel-pedal operation tests. Results of Stepwise multiple regression also revealed that the Korean-Modified Barthel Index total score and speed anticipation, with an R2 of 52.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5b/7c/jpts-27-3759.PMC4713785.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2915651", "abstract": "Guanine-rich nucleic acid sequences can adopt G-quadruplex structures stabilized by layers of four Hoogsteen-paired guanine residues. Quadruplex-prone sequences are found in many regions of human genome and in the telomeres of all eukaryotic organisms. Since small molecules that target G-quadruplexes have been found to be effective telomerase inhibitors, the identification of new specific ligands for G-quadruplexes is emerging as a promising approach to develop new anticancer drugs. Distamycin A is known to bind to AT-rich sequences of duplex DNA, but it has recently been shown to interact also with G-quadruplexes. Here, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and NMR techniques have been employed to characterize the interaction between a dicationic derivative of distamycin A (compound 1) and the [d(TGGGGT)]4 quadruplex. Additionally, to compare the binding behaviour of netropsin and compound 1 to the same target, a calometric study of the interaction between netropsin and [d(TGGGGT)]4 has been performed. Experiments show that netropsin and compound 1 are able to bind to [d(TGGGGT)]4 with good affinity and comparable thermodynamic profiles. In both cases the interactions are entropically driven processes with a small favourable enthalpic contribution. Interestingly, the structural modifications of compound 1 decrease the affinity of the ligand toward the duplex, enhancing the selectivity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3b/0b/PMC2915651.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4220593", "abstract": "In Brief The coexistence of depression with diabetes significantly increases the likelihood of developing complications. This study aimed to describe the presence and severity of depression in immigrant Chinese Australian people with diabetes and explore its relationship to sociodemographic and diabetes-related factors. This study found that approximately one-fifth of immigrant Chinese Australian people with diabetes had symptoms consistent with moderate to severe depression and that individuals who are socially isolated and have more complex treatment and complications of diabetes are particularly at risk.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cf/b3/163.PMC4220593.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3399339", "abstract": "Nurses are the first role models for students in clinical settings. They can have a significant role on students' motivation. The purpose of this study was to explore the understanding of nursing students and instructors concerning the role of nurses in motivating nursing students through clinical education. The sampling was first started purposefully and continued with theoretical sampling. The study collected qualitative data through semistructured and interactive interviews with 16 nursing students and 4 nursing instructors. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using grounded theory approach. One important pattern emerged in this study was the “concerns of becoming a nurse,” which itself consisted of three categories: “nurses clinical competency,” “nurses as full-scale mirror of the future,” and “Monitoring and modeling through clinical education” (as the core variable). The findings showed that the nurses' manners of performance as well as the profession's prospect have a fundamental role in the process of formation of motivation through clinical education. Students find an insight into the nursing profession by substituting themselves in the place of a nurse, and as result, are or are not motivated towards the clinical education.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/78/f4/PMC3399339.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4049028", "abstract": "Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, vascular type (vEDS) (MIM #130050) is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by mutation in the type III collagen gene, COL3A1, leading to fragility of blood vessels, bowel and uterus that leads to spontaneous rupture. We report a previously undiagnosed vEDS patient with bowel complications. A 20-year-old female patient was referred to our hospital with abdominal pain. Computed tomography showed notable dilatation of the sigmoid colon with intraperitoneal fluid. Laparotomy revealed dilatation of the sigmoid colon, breakdown of serosa and muscularis propria of the sigmoid colon with impending perforation, and intra-abdominal hemorrhage caused by breakdown of the mesenterium. Resection of the sigmoid colon with Hartmann's pouch and an end colostomy were performed. Physical examination showed joint hypermobility, translucent skin with venous prominence and facial structure abnormalities. Genetic analysis using cDNA extracted from the patient's fibroblasts by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction direct sequencing showed a missense mutation within the triple helix region of COL3A1 (c.2150 G>A; Gly717Asp).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/6c/crg-0008-0175.PMC4049028.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3765771", "abstract": "Chemokines are regulatory proteins that play an important role in muscle cell migration and proliferation. In this study, C2C12 cells treated with lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) showed an increase in endogenous monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) expression and secretion. LPA is a naturally occurring bioactive lysophospholipid with hormone- and growth-factor-like activities. LPA is produced by activated platelets, cytokine-stimulated leukocytes, and possibly by other cell types. However, the LPA analog cyclic phosphatidic acid (cPA) had no effect on the expression and secretion of MCP-1. LPA, although similar in structure to cPA, had potent inducing effects on MCP-1 expression in C2C12 cells. In this study, we showed that LPA enhanced MCP-1 mRNA expression and protein secretion in a dose-dependent manner. Taken together, these results suggest that LPA enhances MCP-1 secretion in C2C12 cells and thus may play an important role in cell proliferation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f6/cd/PMC3765771.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3997897", "abstract": " β-Hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) has neuroprotective effects, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are unclear. Microglial activation plays an important role in neurodegenerative diseases by producing several proinflammatory enzymes and proinflammatory cytokines. The current study investigates the potential mechanisms whereby BHBA affects the expression of potentially proinflammatory proteins by cultured murine microglial BV-2 cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The results showed that BHBA significantly reduced LPS-induced protein and mRNA expression levels of iNOS, COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Blocking of GPR109A by PTX resulted in a loss of this anti-inflammatory effect in BV-2 cells. Western blot analysis showed that BHBA reduced LPS-induced degradation of IκB-α and translocation of NF-κB, while no effect was observed on MAPKs phosphorylation. All results imply that BHBA significantly reduces levels of proinflammatory enzymes and proinflammatory cytokines by inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway but not MAPKs pathways, and GPR109A is essential to this function. Overall, these data suggest that BHBA has a potential as neuroprotective drug candidate in neurodegenerative diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/89/9b/PMC3997897.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4800098", "abstract": "Dry eye is a common disorder characterized by deficiency of tear. Hyperosmoticity of tear stimulates inflammation and damage of ocular surface tissues and plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of dry eye. Cultured human corneal epithelial (CE) cells were used for the study of effects of lutein and hyperosmoticity on the secretion of IL-6 by CE cells. Cell viability of CE cells was not affected by lutein at 1–10 μM as determined by MTT assay. Hyperosmoticity significantly elevated the secretion of IL-6 by CE cells as measured by ELISA analysis. The constitutive secretion of IL-6 was not affected by lutein. Lutein significantly and dose-dependently inhibited hyperosmoticity-induced secretion of IL-6. Phosphorylated- (p)- p38 MAPK, p-JNK levels in cell lysates and NF-κB levels in cell nuclear extracts were increased by being exposed to hyperosmotic medium. JNK, p38, and NF-κB inhibitors decreased hyperosmoticity-induced secretion of IL-6. Lutein significantly inhibited hyperosmoticity-induced elevation of NF-κB, p38, and p-JNK levels. We demonstrated that lutein inhibited hyperosmoticity-induced secretion of IL-6 in CE cells through the deactivation of p38, JNK, and NF-κB pathways. Lutein may be a promising agent to be explored for the treatment of dry eye.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d5/46/PMC4800098.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3687644", "abstract": "Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked recessive disorder caused by lysosomal α-galactosidase A deficiency. FD is characterized by the systemic accumulation of globotriaosylceramide with involvement of the heart, kidney, brain and gastrointestinal system. Recently, nonautoimmune thyroid dysfunction was recognized as an additional clinical feature of FD. In the present study, we describe a patient suffering from FD superimposed on overt autoimmune hypothyroidism. The patient was an 11-yr-old boy who presented with goiter and stunted growth, and was diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism due to autoimmune thyroiditis. During levothyroxine replacement therapy, the patient complained of burning pain in his feet and was diagnosed as suffering from FD based on low blood α-galactosidase A activity. In conclusion, we have described the first FD patient preceded by overt autoimmune hypothyroidism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/40/cpe-20-095.PMC3687644.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1160154", "abstract": "Protein phosphorylation plays a fundamental role in most of the cellular regulatory pathways. Experimental identification of protein kinases' (PKs) substrates with their phosphorylation sites is labor-intensive and often limited by the availability and optimization of enzymatic reactions. Recently, large-scale analysis of the phosphoproteome by the mass spectrometry (MS) has become a popular approach. But experimentally, it is still difficult to distinguish the kinase-specific sites on the substrates. In this regard, the in silico prediction of phosphorylation sites with their specific kinases using protein's primary sequences may provide guidelines for further experimental consideration and interpretation of MS phosphoproteomic data. A variety of such tools exists over the Internet and provides the predictions for at most 30 PK subfamilies. We downloaded the verified phosphorylation sites from the public databases and curated the literature extensively for recently found phosphorylation sites. With the hypothesis that PKs in the same subfamily share similar consensus sequences/motifs/functional patterns on substrates, we clustered the 216 unique PKs in 71 PK groups, according to the BLAST results and protein annotations. Then, we applied the group-based phosphorylation scoring (GPS) method on the data set; here, we present a comprehensive PK-specific prediction server GPS, which could predict kinase-specific phosphorylation sites from protein primary sequences for 71 different PK groups. GPS has been implemented in PHP and is available on a www server at .", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/19/be/PMC1160154.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3184505", "abstract": " Background. Mobilization of c-Kit+ hematopoietic cells (HCs) contributes to tumor vascularization. Whereas survival and proliferation of HCs are regulated by binding of the stem cell factor to its receptor c-Kit, migration of HCs is directed by stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)-1. Therefore, targeting migration of HCs provides a promising new strategy of anti-tumor therapy. Methods. BALB/c mice (n = 16) were pretreated with an anti-c-Kit antibody followed by implantation of CT26.WT-GFP colorectal cancer cells into dorsal skinfold chambers. Animals (n = 8) additionally received a neutralizing anti-SDF-1 antibody. Animals (n = 8) treated with a control antibody served as controls. Investigations were performed using intravital fluorescence microscopy, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry and western blot analysis. Results. Blockade of c-Kit significantly enhanced tumor cell engraftment compared to controls due to stimulation of tumor cell proliferation and invasion without markedly affecting tumor vascularization. C-Kit blockade significantly increased VEGF and CXCR4 expression within the growing tumors. Neutralization of SDF-1 completely antagonized this anti-c-Kit-associated tumor growth by suppression of tumor neovascularization, inhibition of tumor cell proliferation and reduction of muscular infiltration. Conclusion. Our study indicates that bone marrow suppression via anti-c-Kit pretreatment enhances tumor cell engraftment of colorectal metastases due to interaction with the SDF-1/CXCR4 pathway which is involved in HC-mediated tumor angiogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/73/47/PMC3184505.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4194952", "abstract": "Data were analyzed from the 1999-2001 Medicare Beneficiary Encrypted Files for patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), an ophthalmic condition characterized by central vision loss. Classifying AMD subtype by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modifications (ICD-9-CM) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2003) code, resource utilization rates increased with disease progression. Individuals with more severe disease (wet only or wet and dry AMD) had greater costs than did those with less severe disease (drusen only or dry only). Costs among patients with wet disease increased yearly at rates exceeding inflation, possibly due in part to increased rates of treatment with photodynamic therapy among these individuals and the aging of the population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4b/db/PMC4194952.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5080804", "abstract": "Purpose The purpose of this study is to assess the role of adjuvant therapy in stage I-III gallbladder cancer (GBC) patients who have undergone R0 resection. Materials and Methods Clinical data were collected on 441 consecutive patients who underwent R0 resection for stage I-III GBC. Eligible patients were classified into adjuvant therapy and surveillance only groups. Propensity score matching (PSM) between the two groups was performed, adjusting clinical factors. Results In total, 84 and 279 patients treated with adjuvant therapy and followed up with surveillance only, respectively, were included in the analysis. Before PSM, the 5-year relapse-free survival (RFS) rate was lower in the adjuvant therapy group than in the surveillance only group (50.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/fc/crt-2015-502.PMC5080804.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4975234", "abstract": "It is known that four main molecular breast cancer subtypes have different prognoses and different responses to therapy. Luminal A tumours have a better prognosis and they tend to be sensitive to anti-estrogen drugs. Luminal B tumours have incomplete sensitivity to endocrine therapy. Her2 tumours, which have an aggressive natural history, are sensitive to trastuzumab. Finally, basal-like tumours might be eligible for chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemosensitivity to docetaxel and doxorubicin of breast cancer subtypes. Patients with locally advanced breast cancer were randomized to receive 4 cycles of full dose doxorubicin (75 mg/m2) or docetaxel (100 mg/m2). After the fourth cycle, patients were submitted to surgery to ascertain pathological response. Treatment response was assessed according to Symmans classification. Among 130 samples analysed most ER positive tumours were luminal subtype. 41", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/9e/ejifcc-20-159.PMC4975234.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3953742", "abstract": "The burden of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) worldwide is a significant clinical and public health issue, affecting approximately one third of the Western population. This review assesses the effect and impact lifestyle interventions have on the treatment of this common condition. We review studies comparing the effect of calorie restriction and exercise programs, as well as comparison of lifestyle intervention with pharmaceutical intervention. Both calorie restriction and exercise programs are shown to be beneficial in improving features of metabolic syndrome and surrogate markers of NAFLD. The paucity of studies using histological improvement hinders the ability to conclude a benefit on improvement of histological NAFLD, although this is shown in a small number of studies. There is a need to extend the intervention period to show a sustained improvement with intervention as most studies have a follow up period of 12 months of less.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/36/hmer-6-001.PMC3953742.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4270679", "abstract": "Background: Researchers have regarded moral distress as a major concern in the health care system. Symptoms associated with moral distress may manifest as frustration, dissatisfaction, and anxiety and may lead to burnout, job leaving, and finally, failure to provide safe and competent care to patients. Proper management of this phenomenon can be fulfilled through study of its causes at different levels of health services and taking necessary measures to solve them. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the status of moral distress in physicians practicing in hospitals affiliated to Medical Sciences Universities in Tehran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out using the Standard Hamric Scale to collect data after modification and evaluation of its reliability and validity. A total of 399 physicians responded to the scale. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and correlation statistics with respect to the variables. Results: Results showed that the frequency of moral distress of physicians was 1.24 ± 0.63 and the intensity of moral distress and composite score of moral distress were 2.14 ± 0.80 and 2.94 ± 2.38, respectively. A significant negative correlation existed between age and frequency and composite score (r = -0.15, P < 0.01 and r = -0.16, P < 0.01, respectively) as well as years of experience and composite score (r = -0.11, P = 0.04). Moral distress composite score in adults specialists was higher than pediatricians (P = 0.002), but lower in physicians participated in medical ethics training courses compared to those not participated. Conclusions: Physicians may encounter moral distress during their practice; therefore, the common causes of distress should be identified in order to prevent its occurrence.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/f1/ircmj-16-10-18797.PMC4270679.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3858140", "abstract": "Statistics is the science of data. As the foundation of scientific knowledge, data refers to evidentiary facts from the nature of reality by human action, observation, or experiment. Clinicians should be aware of the conditions of good data to support the validity of clinical modalities in reading scientific articles, one of the resources to revise or update their clinical knowledge and skills. The cause-effect link between clinical modality and outcome is ascertained as pattern statistic. The uniformity of nature guarantees the recurrence of data as the basic scientific evidence. Variation statistics are examined for patterns of recurrence. This provides information on the probability of recurrence of the cause-effect phenomenon. Multiple causal factors of natural phenomenon need a counterproof of absence in terms of the control group. A pattern of relation between a causal factor and an effect becomes recognizable, and thus, should be estimated as relation statistic. The type and meaning of each relation statistic should be well-understood. A study regarding a sample from the population of wide variations require clinicians to be aware of error statistics due to random chance. Incomplete human sense, coarse measurement instrument, and preconceived idea as a hypothesis that tends to bias the research, which gives rise to the necessity of keen critical independent mind with regard to the reported data.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1e/cb/jkaoms-39-203.PMC3858140.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5268366", "abstract": "Purpose The aim of this study is to report peripheral reperfusion of ischemic areas of the retina on ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography (UWFA) following anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) intravitreal injections in patients treated for diabetic retinopathy. Methods This study is a retrospective review of 16 eyes of 15 patients with diabetic retinopathy, who received anti-VEGF intravitreal injections and underwent pre- and postinjection UWFA. The main outcome measured was the presence of reperfusion in postinjection UWFA images in areas of the retina that demonstrated nonperfusion in preinjection images. Images were analyzed for reperfusion qualitatively and quantitatively by two graders. Results Twelve of 16 eyes (75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/50/opth-11-193.PMC5268366.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2876864", "abstract": "Facet joints have been shown to be a source of chronic low back pain, and it is generally accepted in clinical practice that diagnostic and therapeutic facet joint injections are the most reliable technique for the treatment of facet joint pain, which is considered to be an easy and safe procedure. Serious complications and side effects are uncommon after facet joint injection. However, infectious complications including septic arthritis, epidural abscess, meningitis and endocarditis have been reported following facet joint injections. We report here the first case of death following lumbar facet joint injection due to generalized infection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/90/46/kjae-58-401.PMC2876864.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5097817", "abstract": "Indoxyl sulfate (IS) is one of important uremic toxins and is markedly accumulated in the circulation of end stage renal disease (ESRD) patients, which might contribute to the damage of residual nephrons and progressive loss of residual renal function (RRF). Thus this study was undertaken to investigate the role of IS in modulating mesangial cell (MC) proliferation and the underlying mechanism. The proliferation of MCs induced by IS was determined by cell number counting, DNA synthase rate, and cell cycle phase analysis. COX-2 expression was examined by Western blotting and qRT-PCR, and a specific COX-2 inhibitor NS398 was applied to define its role in IS-induced MC proliferation. Following IS treatment, MCs exhibited increased total cell number, DNA synthesis rate, and number of cells in S and G2 phases paralleled with the upregulation of cyclin A2 and cyclin D1. Next, we found an inducible inflammation-related enzyme COX-2 was remarkably enhanced by IS, and the inhibition of COX-2 by NS398 significantly blocked IS-induced MC proliferation in line with a blockade of PGE2 production. These findings indicated that IS could induce MC proliferation via a COX-2-mediated mechanism, providing new insights into the understanding and therapies of progressive loss of RRF in ESRD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/69/3f/PMC5097817.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5086576", "abstract": "Background Retention in treatment is a key factor to the success of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) and considered an important measure in evaluation of treatment effectiveness. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the retention rate and predictors of retention in MMT in Rafsanjan. Patients and Methods This was a historical cohort study. A total of 1396 patients admitted between March 2011 and March 2012 in 16 MMT clinics (13 private and 3 state clinics) in Rafsanjan, entered the study and their retention rate was examined for one year. The patients’ data abstracted from their medical records using checklists and collected by clinics’ staff. Data analyses were performed using SPSS 15.0 and SAS 9.1. Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards model were used to determine the retention rate and identify predictors of retention, respectively. Results The mean age of 1396 patients was 37.65 ± 10.77 years and most patients were men (93.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/27/f1/ijhrba-05-03-29121.PMC5086576.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4393922", "abstract": "Regenerative and immunomodulatory properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) might be applied for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) treatment. Thus, we proposed in vitro assessment of adipose tissue-derived MSCs (AT-MSCs) immunomodulation on autoimmune response along with beta cell protection in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic C57BL/6 mice model. MSCs were extracted from abdominal adipose tissue of normal mice and cultured to proliferate. Diabetic mice were prepared by administration of multiple low-doses of streptozotocin. Pancreatic islets were isolated from normal mice and splenocytes prepared from normal and diabetic mice. Proliferation, cytokine production, and insulin secretion assays were performed in coculture experiments. AT-MSCs inhibited splenocytes proliferative response to specific (islet lysate) and nonspecific (PHA) triggers in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Decreased production of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-17, and increased secretion of regulatory cytokines such as TGF-β, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-13 by stimulated splenocytes were also shown in response to islet lysate or PHA stimulants (P < 0.05). Finally, we demonstrated that AT-MSCs could effectively sustain viability as well as insulin secretion potential of pancreatic islets in the presence of reactive splenocytes (P < 0.05). In conclusion, it seems that MSCs may provide a new horizon for T1DM cell therapy and islet transplantation in the future.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2f/a0/PMC4393922.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4186576", "abstract": "Background Available evidence that compares outcomes from laparoscopic and open surgery for colorectal cancer shows no difference in disease free or survival time, or in health-related quality of life outcomes, but does not capture the short term benefits of laparoscopic methods in the early postoperative period. Aim To explore the cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic colorectal surgery, compared to open methods, using quality of life data gathered in the first 6 weeks after surgery. Methods Participants were recruited in 2006–2007 in a district general hospital in the south of England; those with a diagnosis of cancer or polyps were included in the analysis. Quality of life data were collected using EQ-5D, on alternate days after surgery for 4 weeks. Costs per patient, from a National Health Service perspective (in British pounds, 2006) comprised the sum of operative, hospital, and community costs. Missing data were filled using multiple imputation methods. The difference in mean quality adjusted life years and costs between surgery groups were estimated simultaneously using a multivariate regression model applied to 20 imputed datasets. The probability that laparoscopic surgery is cost-effective compared to open surgery for a given societal willingness-to-pay threshold is illustrated using a cost-effectiveness acceptability curve. Results The sample comprised 68 laparoscopic and 27 open surgery patients. At 28 days, the incremental cost per quality adjusted life year gained from laparoscopic surgery was £12,375. At a societal willingness-to-pay of £30,000, the probability that laparoscopic surgery is cost-effective, exceeds 65", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/40/ceor-6-415.PMC4186576.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3451760", "abstract": "The purpose of this review was to provide a critical evaluation of medical literature on so-called “cardiac cephalgia” or “cardiac cephalalgia”. The 2004 International Classification of Headache Disorders codes cardiac cephalgia to 10.6 in the group of secondary headaches attributed to disorder of homoeostasis. This headache is hardly recognizable and is associated to an ischaemic cardiovascular event, of which it may be the only manifestation in 27", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4a/b6/PMC3451760.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5288630", "abstract": "Introduction: Tuberculosis tenosynovitis of the wrist and hand is an unusual condition. It mimics a number of other clinical conditions such as ganglion, De quervan’s disease, carpal tunnel syndrome, granulomatous gout, neurofibroma, and haemangioma. Case Report: We present case of 58-year-old male patient with swelling over thenar region of left hand where the initial fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) report suggested diagnosis of ganglion/synovial cyst, but the patient did not improve with conservative treatment. FNAC was repeated which showed granulomatous inflammation consistent with the clinical diagnosis of tuberculosis and antitubercular therapy for 9 months was given. Swelling disappeared and normal range of movements was attained in adjacent joints at final follow-up of 12 months from initiation of antitubercular treatment (ATT). Conclusion: The literature on the management of tubercular tenosynovitis has mostly incorporated surgical method as one of the first-line treatments. We report an unusual case, where the tenosynovitis of wrist completely responded within 12 months of ATT without any need of surgical treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/28/JOCR-6-69.PMC5288630.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2226058", "abstract": "Objective To investigate the relationship between the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene and the risk of mortality in normal weight, overweight and obese individuals. Methods and Results In a population-based study of 7,983 individuals aged 55 years and older, we compared the risks of all-cause and coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality by APOE genotype, both overall and in subgroups defined by body mass index (BMI). We found significant evidence for interaction between APOE and BMI in relation to total cholesterol (p = 0.04) and HDL cholesterol (p < 0.001). Overall, APOE*2 carriers showed a decreased risk of all-cause mortality. Analyses within BMI strata showed a beneficial effect of APOE*2 only in normal weight persons (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 0.7[95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/aa/79/PMC2226058.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3463986", "abstract": "Vitreous body is an intraocular structure, origin of diverse pathologies, but is also the place where cells and inflammatory mediators are released coming from several pathologic processes. These inflammatory reactions can happen in any other ocular location like choroid, retina, optic nerve, or ciliary body and vitreous humor constitutes a stagnant reservoir for these resulting substances and debris. Through the recent techniques of vitreous collecting, handling, and analysis, increasingly more sophisticated and with fewer complications, cellularity and molecules in the vitreous of challenging pathologies for the ophthalmologist can now be studied. The most usefulness for vitreous diagnosis would be the masquerade syndromes, and the best exponent in this group is the primary vitreoretinal lymphoma (PVRL), in which cytology and an IL-10/IL-6 ratio more than 1 is fundamental for the diagnosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0d/b9/PMC3463986.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4408615", "abstract": "The study of immune responses in Drosophila has already yielded significant results with impacts on our understanding of vertebrate immunity, such as the characterization of the Toll receptor. Several recent papers have focused on the humoral response to damage signals rather than pathogens, particularly damage signals from tumour-like tissues generated by loss of cell polarity or chromosomal instability. Both the triggers that generate this sterile inflammation and the systemic and local effects of it are only just beginning to be characterized in Drosophila. Here we review the molecular mechanisms that are known that give rise to the recruitment of Drosophila phagocytes, called hemocytes, as well as the signals, such as TNFα, that stimulated hemocytes emit at sites of perceived damage. The signalling consequences of inflammation, such as the activation of JNK, and the potential for modifying this response are also discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ac/01/PMC4408615.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3941154", "abstract": "The bony skeleton is one of the most common sites of metastatic spread of cancer and is a significant source of morbidity in cancer patients, causing pain and pathologic fracture, impaired ambulatory ability, and poorer quality of life. Animal cancer models of skeletal metastases are essential for better understanding of the molecular pathways behind metastatic spread and local growth and invasion of bone, to enable analysis of host-tumor cell interactions, identify barriers to the metastatic process, and to provide platforms to develop and test novel therapies prior to clinical application in human patients. Thus, the ideal model should be clinically relevant, reproducible and representative of the human condition. This review summarizes the current in vivo animal models used in the study of cancer metastases of the skeleton.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b7/e6/PMC3941154.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2833303", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tPurpose. To elucidate the influence of ionizing radiation (IR) on the oncolytic activity of Parvovirus H-1 (H-1PV) in human high-grade glioma cells. Methods. Short term cultures of human high-grade gliomas were irradiated at different doses and infected with H-1PV. Cell viability was assessed by determining relative numbers of surviving cells. Replication of H-1PV was measured by RT-PCR of viral RNA, fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS) analysis and the synthesis of infectious virus particles. To identify a possible mechanism for radiation induced change in the oncolytic activity of H-1PV we performed cell cycle analyses.  Results. Previous irradiation rendered glioma cells fully permissive to H-1PV infection. Irradiation 24 hours prior to H-1PV infection led to increased cell killing most notably in radioresistant glioma cells. Intracellular levels of NS-1, the main effector of H-1PV induced cytotoxicity, were elevated after irradiation. S-phase levels were increased one day after irradiation improving S-phase dependent viral replication and cytotoxicity. Conclusion. This study demonstrates intact susceptibility of previously irradiated glioma-cells for H-1PV induced oncolysis. The combination of ionizing radiation followed by H-1PV infection increased viral cytotoxicity, especially in radioresistant gliomas. These findings support the ongoing development of a clinical trial of H-1PV in patients with recurrent glioblastomas.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/59/0b/PMC2833303.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5075624", "abstract": "Citrate dialysate has been developed for few years to replace acetate and HCl concentrates. In Online Postdilution Hemodiafiltration (OL-POST-HDF), several issues are remaining concerning the possibility of stopping anticoagulation during sessions and the side effects of citrate solutions on calcium metabolism. This 1-year monocentric retrospective study included all patients exposed to citrate in OL-POST-HDF with nadroparin decrease for more than one month. Clotting events, serum calcium, PTH, hemoglobin, CRP, depuration parameters, and treatments administrated were recorded for analysis. 27 patients experienced nadroparin decrease and 5 did not receive nadroparin at the end of the study. Nadroparin decrease and withdrawal were both associated with more clotting events whereas the use of vitamin K antagonists was protective. No significant metabolic side effects were observed. Citrate dialysate does not allow anticoagulation discontinuation or decrease but has no significant side effects on mineral bone metabolism or erythropoiesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c4/64/PMC5075624.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3015848", "abstract": "Background: Recurrence and reflux are 2 most important remote complications of lap-paraesophageal hernia (PEH) repair. However, the extent of recurrence remains unknown. We sought to determine the true incidence of recurrence after lap-PEH repair. Methods: A meta-analysis was carried out. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, hand search, and personal communication were used to access and appraise studies. The inclusion criteria were full-text papers published from 1991 to date that describe lap-PEH repair in >25 patients, have at least a 6-month follow-up, and address the issue of recurrence. “Wrap migration” papers were excluded. Papers were appraised and the data were isolated on summary sheets. MS Office Excel 2003 was used to plot the results and represent it in graphs. Results: Thirteen studies were eligible (all retrospective case series). A total of 965 patients with 99 recurrences were noted. The overall recurrence rate (in all patients) was 10.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/63/jsls-11-4-456.PMC3015848.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4725260", "abstract": "We have described the morphological variation of five Western Palaearctic species of Monochamus Dejean, 1821. The variation was assessed using wing measurements. Special emphasis was placed on the differences between Monochamus sartor (F., 1787) and Monochamus urussovii (Fischer-Waldheim, 1805). There was an interesting pattern of variation between the two species. Individuals of M. sartor from the Carpathians differed markedly from individuals of M. urussovii from Siberia, but individuals from north-eastern Poland were intermediate between those two populations. The intermediate individuals were more similar to the Siberian M. urussovii than to the Carpathian M. sartor despite the relatively large geographic distance between north-eastern Poland and Siberia. The occurrence of the intermediate individuals in north-eastern Poland may be the effect of hybridization between M. urussovii and M. sartor, which might have occurred after secondary contact between the two species in the Holocene.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1a/04/iev153.PMC4725260.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3033074", "abstract": "AmpC β-lactamase, altered porins, or both are usually responsible for cefoxitin resistance in Escherichia coli. We examined the relative importance of each. We studied 18 strains of clinical isolates with reduced cefoxitin susceptibility and 10 initially-susceptible strains passaged through cefoxitin-gradient plates. Of 18 wild-resistant strains, 9 had identical promoter mutations (including creation of a consensus 17-bp spacer) and related pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns; the other 9 strains were unrelated. Nine strains had attenuator mutations; two strains did not express OmpC or OmpF. After serial passage, 8 of 10 strains developed cefoxitin resistance, none developed promoter or attenuator mutations, 6 lost both the OmpC and OmpF porin proteins, and 1 showed decreased production of both. One strain had neither porin alteration or increased AmpC production. Porin mutants may occur more commonly and be less fit and less inclined to spread or cause disease than strains with increased β-lactamase expression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/71/90/PMC3033074.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3395128", "abstract": "For several years, lipids and especially n − 3 and n − 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) receive much attention in human health. Epidemiological studies tend to correlate a PUFA-rich diet with a reduced incidence of cancer, including breast cancer. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms supporting the effect of PUFAs in breast cancer cells remain relatively unknown. Here, we review some recent progress in understanding the impact that PUFA may have on breast cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion. While most of the results obtained with docosahexaenoic acid and/or eicosapentaenoic acid show a decrease of tumor cell proliferation and/or aggressivity, there is some evidence that other lipids, which accumulate in breast cancer tissues, such as arachidonic acid may have opposite effects. Finally, lipids and especially PUFAs appear as potential adjuvants to conventional cancer therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/17/b3/PMC3395128.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4949338", "abstract": "Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is an organ-specific autoimmune disorder characterized by progressive thyroid failure. Th1 and Treg subset of CD4+ cells have been implicated in the pathogenesis; however, less is known about their respective roles across the spectrum of HT clinical presentations. To shed more light on CD4+ subsets role in HT, we investigated the mRNA expression levels of several Th1/Treg-associated transcription factors (T-bet/ETS1, HIF1α/BLIMP1/FOXP3) in peripheral blood T cells of 10 hypothyroid, untreated HT patients, 10 hypothyroid patients undergoing hormone replacement therapy, 12 euthyroid HT subjects, and 11 healthy controls by the qRT-PCR. Compared to euthyroid HT patients and controls, both hypothyroid (2.34-fold difference versus controls, P < 0.01) and thyroxine-supplemented patients (2.5-fold, P < 0.001) showed an increased FOXP3 mRNA expression in T cells. Similarly, mRNA expression levels of T-bet were upregulated in severely affected but not in euthyroid HT subjects (2.37-fold and 3.2-fold, hypothyroid and thyroxine-supplemented HT patients versus controls, resp., P < 0.01). By contrast, no differences in mRNA expression levels of ETS1, BLIMP1, and HIF1α were observed across the study groups. In summary, severe but not euthyroid HT was associated with robust upregulation of T-bet and FOXP3 mRNA in peripheral T cells, independent of the thyroid hormone status but proportional to disease activity. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/c7/PMC4949338.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2873752", "abstract": "Urban dengue is common in most countries of the Americas, but has been rare in the United States for more than half a century. In 1999 we investigated an outbreak of the disease that affected Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, and Laredo, Texas, United States, contiguous cities that straddle the international border. The incidence of recent cases, indicated by immunoglobulin M antibody serosurvey, was higher in Nuevo Laredo, although the vector, Aedes aegypti, was more abundant in Laredo. Environmental factors that affect contact with mosquitoes, such as air-conditioning and human behavior, appear to account for this paradox. We conclude that the low prevalence of dengue in the United States is primarily due to economic, rather than climatic, factors.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ab/0e/PMC2873752.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5361016", "abstract": "[Purpose] In Duchenne muscular dystrophy, it increases risks of difficulties of expectoration of secretion, asphyxia, aspiration pneumonia because of decreased cough function. The aim of this study is to prove that manually assisted coughing or mechanical insufflation-exsufflation prevents pulmonary complication and contribute to continue oral intake safely and continue rate of oral intake in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. [Subjects and Methods] We investigated the status of using ventilator, manually assisted coughing or mechanical insufflation-exsufflation, and oral intake or not. In addition, we inspected the frequency of fever (over 37 °C) needed antibiotics from medical records for index of respiratory tract infection, and compared with every period of using mechanical insufflation-exsufflation from respiratory evaluation on cough peak flow. [Results] Fifty-eight patients participated in this study. There were 45 Full-time noninvasive positive pressure ventilation patients. Forty-three in 45 Full-time noninvasive positive pressure ventilation patients (95.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/02/29/jpts-29-487.PMC5361016.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1635330", "abstract": "Gene expression studies employing high throughput real time PCR methods require finding uniform conditions for optimal amplification of multiple targets, often a daunting task. We developed a primer database, qPrimerDepot, which provides optimized primers for all human and mouse RefSeq genes. These primers are designed to amplify desired templates under unified annealing temperature. For most intron-bearing genes, primers flank one of the largest introns thus minimizing background noise due to genomic DNA contamination. The qPrimerDepot database can be accessed at  and .", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5a/fc/gkl767.PMC1635330.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3476211", "abstract": "The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the relevance of the symptom “headache” in kidney transplanted patients, since few studies have considered headache as a clinically significant complication in this condition. A total of 83 consecutive kidney transplant patients underwent to neurological examination and a detailed headache history was taken. The headache history considered the period before kidney disease, during renal failure, during dialysis treatment and after transplantation. Diagnosis was made according to International Headache Criteria (ICDH-II) (2004). Our results reveal an occurrence of headache after kidney transplantation in 44.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/91/a6/PMC3476211.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4063331", "abstract": "A series of telodendrimer (a linear polyethyelene glycol-block-dendritic oligo-cholic acid) have been synthesized via a bottom-up approach to optimize the hemocompatibility of the nanocarrier. Numbers of hydrophilic glycerol groups were introduced onto the polar surface of cholic acid to reduce the plasma membrane lytic activity of telodendrimers. An interesting result was observed: only an optimum number of glycerol introduced could reduce the hemolytic properties of the nanocarrier; on the contrary, more glycerols or the amino-glycerol substitution onto cholic acid significantly increased the hemolytic properties of the nanocarriers. To further elucidate the structure–property relationship, the molecular dynamic approach was used to simulate the conformation of the subunits of telodendrimers with different glycerol substitution, and the binding energies and the polar surface areas of the hairpin conformations were calculated to explain the membrane activities of nanocarriers. In addition, these telodendrimer subunits were synthesized and their membrane activities were tested directly, which validated the computational prediction and correlated with the observed hemolytic activity of nanocarriers. The glycerol substitution sustained the facial amphiphilicity of cholic acid, maintaining the superior drug loading capacity (paclitaxel and doxorubicin), stability, cell uptake, and anticancer efficacy of payloads. The in vivo optical imaging study indicated that the optimized nanocarriers can specifically deliver drug molecules to the tumor sites more efficiently than free drug administration, which is essential for the enhanced cancer treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/5c/PMC4063331.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4565813", "abstract": "To understand the epidemiology of Avian paramyxovirus serotype-1 (APMV-1) in pigeons in Japan, phylogenetic analysis was comprehensively conducted based on partial fusion protein gene using isolate from the surveillance of this virus with previously known Japanese pigeon strains. This surveillance was conducted using feces obtained from domestic pigeons collected in 40 prefectures throughout Japan from June 2011 to March 2013. From a total of 1,021 samples, a single virus (APMV1/pigeon/Japan/Kanagawa/2013: JP/Kanagawa-pg/2013) was isolated. All Japanese pigeon APMV-1 strains were clustered into a single genetic lineage, which was termed VIb/1 by phylogenetic analysis based on the F gene including the sequence of the cleavage site. These APMV-1 strains were further subdivided into four subgroups identified over 4 separate timeframes: 1984–1995 (group 1), 1995–2000 (group 2), 2001–2007 (group 3) and the novel subgroup isolated in 2013 (group 4). Each subgroup has specific amino acid motifs at a cleavage site of the F protein, namely, 112GRQKR-F117(except for one strain), 112RRKKR-F117, 112RRQKR-F117 and 112RRQKR-F117, respectively. Our data suggest that Japanese APMV-1 strains from pigeons were diverse and reinforced the possibility that there were multiple introduction routes from foreign countries into Japan.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/62/23/jvms-77-919.PMC4565813.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4746706", "abstract": "Background: Escherichia coli is an important bacterial species based on incidence and associated infection severity. Some E. coli strains produce extended-spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) and are called ESBL-producing E. coli. These strains are resistant to most classes of cephalosporin and a number of other classes of antibiotics. Plasmids carrying qnr genes have been found to transmit quinolone resistance. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of qnr genes in ESBL-producing and non-ESBL-producing E. coli isolated from outpatient and hospitalized patient clinical specimens from Imam Reza hospital in Mashhad, Iran. Materials and Methods: Two hundred E. coli strains, isolated from different clinical specimens were used. ESBL-producing E. coli were detected by determining susceptibility to ceftazidime, cefotaxime, and cefpodoxime with the phenotypic confirmatory test (PCT). PCR analysis was employed to detect the qnrA, qnrB, qnrS, blaTEM, and blaSHV genes. Results: Eighty-six (43", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/4a/jjm-08-12-16217.PMC4746706.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3444049", "abstract": " Introduction. Intussusception after bariatric surgery is an uncommon complication that is now being frequently reported. Most people consider dysmotility to be the causative mechanism in the absence of obvious etiology. Material and Methods. A worldwide search identified literature describing intussusception after bariatric surgery. We also included our own patients and analyzed information regarding demographic profile, risk factors, presentation, diagnosis, and post treatment course. Results. Seventy one patients were identified between 1991 and 2011. Majority of the affected patients were females (n = 70, 98.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/aa/9b/PMC3444049.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4670654", "abstract": "African Dust Events (ADE) are a seasonal phenomenon that has been suggested to exacerbate respiratory and proinflammatory diseases in Puerto Rico (PR). Increases in PM10 concentration and the effects of biological endotoxins (ENX) are critical factors to consider during these storms. ENX promote proinflammatory responses in lungs of susceptible individuals through activation of the Toll-like receptors (TLR2/4) signaling pathways. The objective of the study was to evaluate the toxicological and proinflammatory responses stimulated by ADE PM10 ENX reaching PR using human bronchial epithelial cells. PM10 organic extracts from a rural and urban site in PR (March 2004) were obtained from ADE and non-ADE and compared. A retrospective data analysis (PM10 concentration, aerosol images, and pediatric asthma claims) was performed from 2000 to 2012 with particular emphasis in 2004 to classify PM samples. Urban extracts were highly toxic, proinflammatory (IL-6/IL-8 secretion), and induced higher TLR4 expression and NF-κB activation compared to rural extracts. ENX were found to contribute to cytotoxicity and inflammatory responses provoked by urban ADE PM10 exposure suggesting a synergistic potency of local and natural ENX incoming from ADE. The contribution of ADE PM10 ENX is valuable in order to understand interactions and action mechanisms of airborne pollutants as asthma triggers in PR. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a7/aa/PMC4670654.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5422743", "abstract": "Brain and Head and neck metastases are rare in prostatic carcinoma patients. In this report we present a very uncommon case of the concomitant occurrence of a prostatic adenocarcinoma with neck metastases and an advanced laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma without neck metastases. The presence of cervical lymph node prostate adenocarcinoma metastasis concomitantly with a laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma is at least intriguing and may remind us of a rare event called “collision tumors”. In this case we had the metastatization of 1 carcinoma to the site of the drainage of another carcinoma, but we never found the 2 histological types as close as requested to reach the definition of a collision tumor. This emphasizes the need of histological verification of different sites of recurrence when 2 or more primary cancers are known in a patient, particularly when the treatments of those primary cancers vary widely.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/a0/cro-0010-0316.PMC5422743.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2896915", "abstract": "The arenaviruses include a number of important pathogens including Lassa virus and Junin virus. Presently, the only treatment is supportive care and the antiviral Ribavirin. In the event of an epidemic, patient triage may be required to more effectively manage resources; the development of prognostic biomarker signatures, correlating with disease severity, would allow rational triage. Using a pair of arenaviruses, which cause mild or severe disease, we analyzed extracts from infected cells using SELDI mass spectrometry to characterize potential biomarker profiles. EDGE analysis was used to analyze longitudinal expression differences. Extracts from infected guinea pigs revealed protein peaks which could discriminate between mild or severe infection, and between times post-infection. Tandem mass-spectrometry identified several peaks, including the transcriptional regulator prothymosin-α. Further investigation revealed differences in secretion of this peptide. These data show proof of concept that proteomic profiling of host markers could be used as prognostic markers of infectious disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/6e/PMC2896915.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4446499", "abstract": "The ultrasonic Harmonic scalpel has demonstrated clinical and surgical benefits in dissection and coagulation. To evaluate its use in gastrectomy, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing the Harmonic scalpel to conventional techniques in gastrectomy for patients with gastric cancer. International databases were searched without language restrictions for comparisons in open or laparoscopic gastrectomy and lymphadenectomy. The meta-analysis used a random-effects model for all outcomes; continuous variables were analyzed for mean differences and dichotomous variables were analyzed for risk ratios. Sensitivity analyses were conducted for study quality, type of conventional technique, and imputation of study results. Ten studies (N = 935) met the inclusion criteria. Compared with conventional hemostatic techniques, the Harmonic scalpel demonstrated significant reductions in operating time (−27.5 min; P < 0.001), intraoperative blood loss (−93.2 mL; P < 0.001), and drainage volume (−138.8 mL; P < 0.001). Results were numerically higher for conventional techniques for hospital length of stay, complication risk, and transfusions but did not reach statistical significance. Results remained robust to sensitivity analyses. This meta-analysis demonstrates the clear advantages of using the Harmonic scalpel compared to conventional techniques, with improvements demonstrated across several outcome measures for patients undergoing gastrectomy and lymphadenectomy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/df/0d/PMC4446499.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2518365", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE—To examine the relationship between plasma IGF-1 and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in Caucasian nondiabetic subjects and evaluate the association of IGF-1 and IL-6 with the cardiometabolic risk factors characterizing metabolic syndrome (MetS). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—The study group consisted of 186 Caucasian nondiabetic subjects who underwent an oral glucose tolerance test and an euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp. A logistic regression analysis, adjusted for age and sex, was used to determine the association between tertiles of IGF-1 and IL-6 and the MetS and its components. RESULTS—After adjusting for age and sex, both IGF-1 and IL-6 were correlated with insulin resistance and individual components of MetS, but in opposite directions. In the logistic regression model adjusted for age and sex, higher IL-6 and lower IGF-1 levels confer increased risk of having MetS and its two underlying pathophysiological abnormalities, i.e., visceral obesity and insulin resistance. CONCLUSIONS—The present results raise the possibility that lowered protection against inflammation, i.e., lower IGF-1 levels, may have a role in the development of MetS and its features, resulting in an imbalance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory proteins.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/34/1886.PMC2518365.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3113894", "abstract": "Risk management of paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) in a dairy herd requires an assessment of the likelihood of paratuberculosis occurring in the herd, the economic impact of paratuberculosis on the herd and an evaluation of measures that can be taken to reduce this likelihood and impact. The likelihood of paratuberculosis occurring in the herd is related to the regional herd-level prevalence of paratuberculosis and the herd management (e.g., introducing animals from other herds). The economic impact of paratuberculosis includes production losses due to subclinical and clinical cases, losses due to increased replacement of animals and costs of control measures. Furthermore, a reduction of the price of milk from infected herds might result from consumer concerns about the zoonotic potential of paratuberculosis. Measures that reduce the likelihood of paratuberculosis occurring in a herd and its impact include preventive management measures (e.g., closed herd management and an effective separation of susceptible young stock from adult cattle), test-and-cull schemes for known infected herds and quality assurance schemes for test-negative herds. Quality assurance schemes for test-negative herds, such as schemes for 'low-Map bulk milk' and 'Map-free' herds, aim at safeguarding or increasing the profitability of these herds. Keys to success of risk management of paratuberculosis include realistic expectations of the results of paratuberculosis control, quality assurance and control programmes that are appreciated by farmers and incentives for farmers to participate in such programmes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fc/8b/PMC3113894.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2769230", "abstract": "Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition which negatively impacts the quality of life of afflicted patients. This can result in alterations in social interactions at home, in the workplace and in the community, often leading to depression and poor self esteem as well as loss of productivity. Traditional mainstays of treatment include both behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy. Oxybutynin immediate release (IR) represents the first such medication approved by the FDA specifically for treatment of OAB in 1975. Nevertheless, bothersome side effects in addition to thrice daily dosing often led to treatment cessation which raised the question that patients may actually prefer to live with their OAB symptoms rather than incur side effects or complex dosing schemes. Pharmacological advances ultimately led to development of a long-acting formulation of oxybutynin in the form of oxybutynin extended release (ER) with the hope that this drug would maintain efficacy while decreasing bothersome side effects and improve compliance with the convenience of once daily dosing regimen. This paper will review the major clinical studies involving oxybutynin ER as well as its role in different patient populations and potential concerns with its use.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/55/a3/PMC2769230.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3356882", "abstract": " Introduction. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is biologically aggressive and is associated with a worse prognosis. To understand the impact of race/ethnicity on outcome for patients with TNBC, confounding factors such as socioeconomic status (SES) need to be controlled. We examined the impact of race/ethnicity on a cohort of patients of low SES who have TNBC. Methods. 786 patients with Stage 0–III breast cancer were evaluated. Of these, 202 patients had TNBC (26", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/c5/PMC3356882.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4591153", "abstract": "Horizontal transmission is recognized as a major infection route for bovine leukemia virus (BLV), and cattle with high viral loads are considered to be a major infectious source in a herd. However, a correlation between viral loads and the risk of infection has been insufficient to use as a foundation for BLV control strategies. In this report, we examined the epidemiology of BLV infection and the infectious source in a local area. In 2013–2014, BLV infection was investigated in 1,823 cattle from 117 farms in two adjacent districts, Miyazaki, Japan. Seropositive samples for BLV were detected with 88 cattle and in 14 farms. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that 94", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/ce/jvms-77-1115.PMC4591153.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3184795", "abstract": "Introduction The main objective of this work is to show how process mapping may contribute to the improvement of intra- and inter-organizational integration of care. Theory and methods Under logic of service integration, quality of care depends not only on how the internal processes are implemented, but also on the quality of the transitions of care with external entities. We conducted a case study on a health centre located in the Centre Region of Portugal. Data was collected during the first semester of 2009. Petri nets were used as a modeling tool. Results We mapped eleven processes involving a patient directly. The informality of many of the processes became evident. Activities are guided by formalisms imposed by law and by the good practices of professionals. Some processes are not normalized and represented in the computerized information system. The media most used to communicate with other entities are the phone and paper. Under the RNCCI (Rede Nacional de Cuidados Integrados e Continuados—National Network for Integrated Care), the information is all organized in an integrated manner, and the processes are support by a customized, nation-wide, web-based information system. However, this platform is not integrated with the other applications in use. Conclusions and discussion We have demonstrated the viability and the benefits of process mapping techniques in the context of a Health Centre. It allowed to identify and understand the ‘what’, ‘why’, ‘when’, ‘where’, ‘who’ of each process, sub-process, task and activity and to develop graphical views of the processes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4e/f8/ijic2011-2011119.PMC3184795.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3767582", "abstract": "Numerous studies have been completed on glaucoma pathogenesis. However, the potential and controversial interaction between ocular biomechanical properties and the glaucomatous diseases process has received much more attention recently. Previous studies have found that collagen tissues gain mutation change in glaucoma patients. This study was conducted to determine the role of collagen in the biomechanics of glaucoma in humans. Its changes may be the result of mechanical modifications brought on by intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuations. More importantly, biomechanics and genetic evidence indicate that the mutation of collagen may play a role in the process of glaucoma. Alteration of collagen in the outflow pathway may alter mechanical tissue characteristics and a concomitant increase of aqueous humor outflow resistance and elevation of IOP. The variations of collagen, leading to inter-individual differences in scleral and lamina cribrosa properties, result in different susceptibility of individuals to elevated IOP. Therefore, this study hypothesized that collagen mutations may be an original cause of glaucoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/43/11/PMC3767582.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3606771", "abstract": " Objectives. To evaluate the feasibility of implementing a statewide children with special health care needs (CSHCN) program evaluation, case management, and surveillance system using a standardized instrument and protocol that operationalized the United States Health and Human Services CSHCN National Performance Measures. Methods. Public health nurses in local public health agencies in Washington State jointly developed and implemented the standardized system. The instrument was the Omaha System. Descriptive statistics were used for the analysis of standardized data. Results. From the sample of CSHCN visit reports (n = 127), 314 problems and 853 interventions were documented. The most common problem identified was growth and development followed by health care supervision, communication with community resources, caretaking/parenting, income, neglect, and abuse. The most common intervention category was surveillance (60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ca/17/PMC3606771.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC59588", "abstract": "The prognosis of patients who present with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (ACS) is guarded. These patients can be risk-stratified on the basis of symptom complex, electrocardiographic ST segment depression, obvious hemodynamic compromise and particularly on the basis of serum troponin level. An elevated troponin level determines risk and also predicts the degree of benefit from treatment with either low molecular weight heparin or platelet glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa blockade. Higher risk patients should undergo early coronary angiography and myocardial revascularization as indicated and feasible. Although studies performed before the advent of coronary stenting and adjunctive platelet GP IIb/IIIa blockade suggested increased hazard for patients undergoing early intervention, recent experience cited herein supports an in-hospital and long-term clinical benefit for the aggressive approach. Here, I propose an algorithm for risk stratification and triage of appropriate patients for adjunctive pharmacotherapy and early revascularization.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/04/PMC59588.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4714298", "abstract": "SUMMARY Campylobacter is a leading cause of diarrhoea, and its presence in chickens is a significant risk for zoonotic infection. Poultry production is becoming increasingly intensive in Ethiopia and is incorporating more high-producing breeds into traditionally managed smallholdings, especially in peri-urban areas. This cross-sectional study sampled 219 household environments in one peri-urban and two rural areas of Ethiopia, and an additional 20 semi-intensive farms in the peri-urban district. Campylobacter was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-specific assays in 44 samples; 16 of which could be identified as C. jejuni. Flocks in the peri-urban area were at significantly greater odds of detection, including those which only kept indigenous birds under a scavenging system. It was also noted that scavenging flocks of exotic high-production birds (Rhode Island Red) were at slightly greater risk, perhaps as exotic birds are under more stress when kept under traditional management systems. We suggest that changes to the system of chicken production may alter the ecology and epidemiology of Campylobacter in the environment, chickens and people, which may drive emergence of new epidemiological patterns of disease. Further research is needed to determine the extent to which the current management intensification and the distribution programmes of exotic and/or improved indigenous birds may alter Campylobacter epidemiology, ecology and public health risk, before their widespread adoption.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4e/5d/S0950268815001429a.PMC4714298.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4340457", "abstract": "Antithrombin III (AT III) is a plasmatic α-glicoprotein formed by a single peptidic chain. AT III inhibits thrombin (first target) and free Xa, IXa ,VIIa plasmatic factors. In plasma AT III is found under two forms: α-antithrombin and β-antithrombin. Deficiency of AT III represents a risk factor for thromboembolic disease. There are known both quantitative and qualitative AT III deficiencies. Incidence of AT III inherited deficiency is relative rare (1:10.000). Acquired deficiency of AT III is more frequent. The transmission of AT III deficiency is autosomal dominant with variable shield factor. Homozygous is incompatible with life (death immediately after birth). Thrombosis appears around the age of twenty years, and in 4-5 decades of life 2/3 of patients are symptomatics. Traumatisms, surgical interventions, estrogenic treatment, precipitated thrombotic complications. Obesity and dyslipidemic syndrome are risk factors. Thrombosis affects the venous system at these patients. Arterial thrombosis are less reported. The most frequent localisations are: the veins of the legs, mesenteric veins, cave veins, superficial periombilical veins. Treatment of AT III deficiency is: administration of AT III concentrates (with a plasmatic level by 80", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/6f/CHSJ-40-2-141.PMC4340457.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3804668", "abstract": "Cerebral cavernous malformation with giant cysts is rare and literature descriptions of its clinical features are few. In this case study, the authors describe the clinical symptoms, radiological findings, and pathological diagnosis of cerebral cavernous malformations with giant cysts, reviewing the relevant literature to clearly differentiate this from other disease entities. The authors present a case of a 19-year-old male with a giant cystic cavernous malformation, who was referred to the division of neurosurgery due to right sided motor weakness (grade II/II). Imaging revealed a large homogenous cystic mass, 7.2×4.6×6 cm in size, in the left fronto-parietal lobe and basal ganglia. The mass had an intra-cystic lesion, abutting the basal portion of the mass. The initial diagnosis considered this mass a glioma or infection. A left frontal craniotomy was performed, followed by a transcortical approach to resect the mass. Total removal was accomplished without post-operative complications. An open biopsy and a histopathological exam diagnosed the mass as a giant cystic cavernous malformation. Imaging appearances of giant cavernous malformations may vary. The clinical features, radiological features, and management of giant cavernous malformations are described based on pertinent literature review.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6b/6b/jcen-15-255.PMC3804668.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC539994", "abstract": "The public expressed sequence tag collections are continually being enriched with high-quality sequences that represent an ever-expanding range of taxonomically diverse plant species. While these sequence collections provide biased insight into the populations of expressed genes available within individual species and their associated tissues, the information is conceivably of wider relevance in a comparative context. When we consider the available expressed sequence tag (EST) collections of summer 2004, most of the major plant taxonomic clades are at least superficially represented. Investigation of the five million available plant ESTs provides a wealth of information that has applications in modelling the routes of plant genome evolution and the identification of lineage-specific genes and gene families. Over four million ESTs from over 50 distinct plant species have been collated within an EST analysis pipeline called openSputnik. The ESTs were resolved down into approximately one million unigene sequences. These have been annotated using orthology-based annotation transfer from reference plant genomes and using a variety of contemporary bioinformatics methods to assign peptide, structural and functional attributes. The openSputnik database is available at http://sputnik.btk.fi.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/23/ad/PMC539994.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4449411", "abstract": "Abstract Background Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disease of unknown etiology, in which genetic factors, seem to play an important role in the disease predisposition and course. Assessment of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) gene polymorphisms in many populations showed a possible association with IBD. Considering the genetic variety in different ethnic groups, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association of five important single nucleo-tide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region of (TNF-α) gene with IBD in Iran. Methods In this case-control study, 156 Ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, 50 Crohn’s disease (CD) patients and 200 sex and age matched healthy controls of Iranian origin were enrolled. The study was performed during a two year period (2008–2010) at Taleghani Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. DNA samples were evaluated for (TNF-α) gene polymorphisms (including -1031, -863, -857, -308 and -238) by PCR and RFLP methods. Results The frequency of the mutant allele of -1031 polymorphism was significantly higher in Iranian patients with Crohn’s disease compared to healthy controls (P=0.01, OR=1.92; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/02/80/PMC4449411.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3480000", "abstract": "High cumulative doses of anthracyclines (300–500 mg/m2) used in the treatment of children with cancer may result in cardiotoxicity, a major long-term adverse effect that limits clinical usefulness of this class of chemotherapeutic agents. We assessed anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity by measuring Pro-BNP levels and echocardiographic (ECHO) findings and investigated potential protective effect of selenium (Se) supplementation in a group of pediatric cancer patients. Plasma level of Pro-BNP was measured, and ECHO was performed in 67 patients (45 boys, 22 girls; ages 2–18 years; median age 12 years) after they completed anthracycline-containing chemotherapy. Serum Se level was measured in 37 patients. Eleven patients had high Pro-BNP levels and/or cardiac failure with Pro-BNP levels of 10–8,022 pg/mL (median 226.3 pg/mL; laboratory normal level is less than 120 pg/mL). Serum Se levels were low (20–129 mcg/L, median 62 mcg/L) in ten of these eleven patients. Eight of 10 patients with low Se and high Pro-BNP levels were supplemented with Se 100 mcg/day for a period of 4–33 months (median 6 months) which resulted in improvement in Pro-BNP and/or ECHO findings. These results suggest that Se supplementation may have a role in protection against anthracycline-induced cardiac toxicity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/14/f9/PMC3480000.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4977810", "abstract": "Dermatitis artefacta lies in a gray zone, between the specialities of psychiatry and dermatology. The condition could mimic a number of other lesions and therefore is a source of much confusion in clinical practice. Here, we describe a case of dermatitis artefacta in an 11-years old girl, which resembled self-harming behavior in Borderline personality disorder. We then discuss how the two could be differentiated and why this becomes imperative while dealing with such cases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ab/0e/cpn-14-311.PMC4977810.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3712234", "abstract": "In systemic inflammation and sepsis, endothelial activation and microvascular dysfunction are characteristic features that promote multiorgan failure. As symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) impacts vascular tension and integrity via modulating nitric oxide (NO) pathways, we investigated circulating SDMA in critical illness and sepsis. 247 critically ill patients (160 with sepsis, 87 without sepsis) were studied prospectively upon admission to the medical intensive care unit (ICU) and on day 7, in comparison to 84 healthy controls. SDMA serum levels were significantly elevated in critically ill patients at admission to ICU compared to controls and remained stably elevated during the first week of ICU treatment. The highest SDMA levels were found in patients with sepsis. SDMA levels closely correlated with disease severity scores, biomarkers of inflammation, and organ failure (renal, hepatic, and circulatory). We identified SDMA serum concentrations at admission as an independent prognostic biomarker in critically ill patients not only for short-term mortality at the ICU but also for unfavourable long-term survival. Thus, the significant increase of circulating SDMA in critically ill patients indicates a potential pathogenic involvement in endothelial dysfunction during sepsis and may be useful for mortality risk stratification at the ICU.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/96/e5/PMC3712234.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4027688", "abstract": "Hoarseness and dysphonia are often a result of vocal cord polyps which in turn, are linked to vocal trauma. We report the case of vocal polyps in the setting of a 27-year old male with a history only remarkable for Tourette syndrome. We review the literature regarding etiology and pathophysiology of vocal cord lesions and propose vocal tics in Tourette syndrome as an under-recognized etiology. In this way, we also review therapies that may aid in treating not only the vocal cord lesions but also particularly in the setting of vocal tics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/27/97/jmd-4-2-80-8.PMC4027688.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4006499", "abstract": "Objective Although there are several echocardiographic criteria, there is not yet a general consensus about the diagnosis of left ventricular noncompaction. The current criteria are mostly based on the areas with maximal noncompaction in the heart. The echocardiographer may miss this maximal point leading to a misdiagnosis. Accordingly, we suggested a new method to measure the percentage of myocardial noncompaction using two-dimensional echocardiography. Methods In this study, the new method was examined on 4 noncompaction and 26 dilated cardiomyopathies, and 25 normal subjects. The percentage of noncompaction was measured at 3 levels (apical, papillary muscle and mitral valve) and averaged. Findings The mean percentages of myocardial noncompaction were 3.59±2.27, 8.86±5.52 and 34.7±26.1 in the control, dilated cardiomyopathy and noncompaction groups, respectively. A value of 17", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/07/5a/IJPD-23-519.PMC4006499.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4357676", "abstract": "Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor with poor prognosis. The age of patients affected by HCC is considered to be increasing, and several studies have reported significantly higher rates of morbidity and mortality after hepatectomy for HCC in elderly patients. However, other studies have reported that the short- and long-term outcomes of surgery for HCC in elderly patients are similar to those in younger patients. Whether the indications for hepatic resection in elderly patients resemble those in younger patients has thus been questioned. We describe two cases of patients over 90 years old who underwent major hepatectomy for HCC, representing the oldest patients in the world to have done so.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f4/43/crg-0009-0049.PMC4357676.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4257480", "abstract": "Osteonecrosis or avascular osteonecrosis (AVN) of the femoral head is a devastating multifactorial disease that affects 20 000 persons each year in the United States. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the efficacy and safety of alendronate for adult AVN during short- and long-term follow-up. Electronic databases were searched for randomized or nonrandomized clinical trials, cohort, case-control studies, and series of cases in which alendronate was used for treatment of adult AVN of the femoral head. Relevant articles with adequate data on reduction of pain, improvement of articular function, slowing of bone collapse progression, or need for total hip arthroplasty (THA) were included after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eight articles involving 788 hips with evidence level 1b to 3b were included in this systematic review. Most studies suggested a positive short-term efficacy of alendronate treatment in reducing pain, improving articular function, slowing of bone collapse progression, and delaying the need for THA for adult AVN patients. The favorable long-term results were also presented in those treated patients after 10-year follow-up. In addition, there were no severe adverse effects associated with alendronate treatment observed during short- and long-term follow-up, and most of the included studies suggested use of alendronate in early AVN with small necrotic lesion to achieve better outcomes. The findings support consideration of alendronate use for adult AVN, particularly with early stage and small necrotic size. The lack of large-scale, randomized, and double-blind studies justifies new studies to demonstrate the detailed indication and the optimized strategy of alendronate treatment. Level of evidence: Level 3a.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/53/e8/PMC4257480.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3891566", "abstract": "Objective To review the current knowledge on the prevalence, reasons, and consequences of cesarean sections in the People’s Republic of China. Methods Peer-reviewed articles were systematically searched on PubMed. The following Chinese databases were comprehensively searched: the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and the VIP information. The databases were searched from inception to September 1, 2013. Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts for eligibility. Full texts of eligible papers were reviewed, where relevant references were hand-searched and reviewed. Findings Sixty articles were included from PubMed, 17 articles were intentionally picked out from Chinese journals, and five additional articles were added, for a total of 82 articles for the analysis. With a current national rate near 40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/14/0f/ijwh-6-059.PMC3891566.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3937560", "abstract": "Pyoderma gangrenosum is a phenomenon of cutaneous ulceration where etiology is not well understood. About half of the cases have an associated extracutanoeus manifestation or associated systemic diseases. Most commonly associated systemic disorders include inflammatory bowel disease, hematologic malignancies, autoimmune arthritis, and vasculitis. We are reporting a case where pyoderma gangrenosum has presenting features for ulcerative colitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/f9/JCHIMP-4-23402.PMC3937560.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3139121", "abstract": "Telemedicine is a rapidly developing application of clinical medicine where medical information is transferred through interactive audiovisual media for the purpose of consulting remote medical procedures or examinations, reducing the time of consultation for patients. Teledermatology as an application of telemedicine was developed in 1995: it turns out to be a gradually more ordinary mean of delivering dermatologic healthcare worldwide and will almost certainly have a greater medical function in the future. In particular, teledermatology can aid in the prevention and diagnosis of nonmelanoma and melanoma skin cancer; telemedicine and teledermatology offer the opportunity to make available consultations with experts also by long distance. Overall, patients seem to accept teledermatology, considering it as an excellent mean to obtain healthcare, particularly in those areas with no expert dermatologists available. Clinicians have also generally reported affirmative experiences with teledermatology in the skin cancer field. Further studies focusing on cost effectiveness, patient outcomes, and patient and clinician satisfaction will facilitate to delineate the potential of teledermatology as a mean of prevention and diagnosis of nonmelanoma and melanoma skin cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/02/87/PMC3139121.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2988860", "abstract": "The occurrence of acute ischemic colitis may be associated with the intake of various drugs. However, colitis during antineoplastic chemotherapy usually is due to toxic effects or neutropenia and not caused by ischemia. We describe a 51-year-old man with jejunal B-cell lymphoma who developed recurrent episodes of ischemic colitis following chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicine and prednisolone plus rituximab (R-CHOP). After switching chemotherapy to bendamustin plus rituximab no further episodes of colonic ischemia occurred during the following cycles of chemotherapy. In conclusion, chemotherapy of lymphoma using a standard protocol with CHOP and rituximab may cause ischemic colitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/60/crg0004-0465.PMC2988860.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4588022", "abstract": "Changes in radial and longitudinal left ventricular (LV) function were investigated in beagles with iatrogenic hypercortisolism. A total of 11 normal dogs were used, and 2 mg/kg prednisone was administered per oral q12 h for 28 days to 7 out of 11 dogs to induce iatrogenic hypercortisolism. Body weight, blood pressure, conventional echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) of normal and iatrogenic hypercortisolism groups were conducted. The myocardial wall velocity of the LV was measured using color TDI and myocardial deformation was determined by the strain and strain rate. Conventional echocardiography revealed that the diastolic LV free wall and interventricular septum in the hypercortisolism group were thickened relative to those in the normal group. The peak early diastolic myocardial velocity and early to late diastolic myocardial velocity ratio of TDI in the hypercortisolism group were significantly lower than those in the normal group. The strain values in the hypercortisolism group were significantly lower than those in the normal group, particularly for longitudinal wall motion. The lower values of myocardium from TDI and strain imaging could be used to investigate subclinical LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction in dogs with the iatrogenic hypercortisolism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7d/6b/jvs-16-357.PMC4588022.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4286865", "abstract": "Objective: To determine and list the variety of the predominant appeal signs leading to referral and their accompanying features found during specialized ultrasound evaluation in foetuses with trisomy 13 and trisomy 18. Materials and Methods: In a period of thirty years, 1110 cases of foetal malformations were detected during specialized echographic evaluation. 47 Of these cases were foetuses with trisomy 13 or trisomy 18. We evaluated the predominant signs leading to referral, the difference and overlap in presenting signs between both syndromes and when the data were available, we also compared the echographic signs with the foetal pathology. Results: In foetuses with trisomy 13 the most common malformations were craniofacial defects, cerebral malformations and genitourinary tract anomalies. The most common malformations associated with trisomy 18 were limb abnormalities and intrauterine growth restriction. Most malformations were predominant in trisomy 18, except for genitourinary tract anomalies. In most cases the sonographic signs correlated with the pathology findings. Conclusion: Trisomy 13 as well as trisomy 18 are characterized by a number of various malformations in the foetus. Most of the ultrasound features were predominant in foetuses with trisomy 18. Mostly the foetal pathology correlated with the sonographic evaluation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/96/83/FVVinObGyn-6-245-249.PMC4286865.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4686718", "abstract": " Background. HIV infected women have higher rates of infertility. Objective. The purpose of this literature review is to evaluate the effectiveness of fresh IVF/ICSI cycles in HIV infected women. Materials and Methods. A search of the PubMed database was performed to identify studies assessing fresh nondonor oocyte IVF/ICSI cycle outcomes of serodiscordant couples with an HIV infected female partner. Results and Discussion. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. Whenever a comparison with a control group was available, with the exception of one case, ovarian stimulation cancelation rate was higher and pregnancy rate (PR) was lower in HIV infected women. However, statistically significant differences in both rates were only seen in one and two studies, respectively. A number of noncontrolled sources of bias for IVF outcome were identified. This fact, added to the small size of samples studied and heterogeneity in study design and methodology, still hampers the performance of a meta-analysis on the issue. Conclusion. Prospective matched case-control studies are necessary for the understanding of the specific effects of HIV infection on ovarian response and ART outcome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ee/96/PMC4686718.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2722014", "abstract": "Alexander disease (AD) is a rare leukodystrophy of the central nervous system of unknown etiology. AD is characterized by progressive failure of central myelination and the accumulation of Rosenthal fibers in astrocytes, and is inevitably lethal in nature. Symptomatically, AD is associated with leukoencephalopathy with macrocephaly, seizures, and psychomotor retardation in infants, and usually leads to death within the first decade. Its characteristic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings have been described as demyelination predominantly in the frontal lobe. Moreover, dominant mutations in the GFAP gene, coding for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a principal astrocytic intermediate filament protein, have been shown to lead to AD. The disease can now be detected by genetic diagnosis. We report the Korean case of an 8-month-old male patient with AD. He was clinically characterized due to the presence of psychomotor retardation, megalencephaly, spasticity, and recurrent seizures including infantile spasms which is a remarkable presentation. Demyelination in the frontal lobe and in a portion of the temporal lobe was demonstrated by brain MRI. Moreover, DNA analysis of peripheral blood showed the presence of a R239L mutation in the GFAP gene, involving the replacement of guanine with thymine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/c0/jkms-21-954.PMC2722014.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3649313", "abstract": "Morbidly obese women are at increased risk of obstetric complications and poor neonatal outcomes. Gastric bypass surgery is being performed with increased frequency in reproductive-aged women to treat morbid obesity. Both maternal and fetal complications have been reported in women who underwent gastric bypass surgery. Current recommendations advise delaying pregnancy for at least 1 year following bariatric surgery. This guideline is meant to discourage women from becoming pregnant during the rapid weight loss phase of the first post-surgical year. Pregnancy during this time could lead to a malnourished fetus, due to some protein malnutrition, possibly resulting in complications such as low birth weight or malformation. However, data validating this concern are lacking. We report a case of 37-year-old woman who had laparoscopic bypass surgery, as treatment for morbid obesity, 6 months prior to her pregnancy with good outcome despite the short duration between gastric bypass surgery and pregnancy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/da/77/PMC3649313.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3492974", "abstract": "Malignancy is a common cause of disseminated intravascular coagulation and usually presents as a chronic disorder in solid organ tumours. We present a rare case of recurrent acute disseminated intravascular coagulation in neuroendocrine carcinoma after manipulation, firstly, by core biopsy and, later, by cytotoxic therapy causing a release of procoagulants and cytokines from lysed tumour cells. This is reminiscent of tumour lysis syndrome where massive quantities of intracellular electrolytes and nucleic acid are released, causing acute metabolic imbalance and renal failure. This case highlights the potential complication of acute disseminated intravascular coagulation after trauma to malignant cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/31/1d/cro-0005-0524.PMC3492974.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3658796", "abstract": "A total of seventy-two weaner rabbits of eight weeks of age were used to assess the effects of replacing groundnut cake (GNC) with blood vegetable waste meal (BVWM) in the diets of rabbits. The BVWM was fed to replace dietary GNC at 0, 15, 30, and 45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/de/PMC3658796.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3160856", "abstract": "Background: Adipose tissue functions as an endocrine organ by releasing adipokines which have important roles in the regulation of inflammation and insulin sensitivity. Although there is evidence of improvement in circulating levels of adipokines with weight loss, few studies relate such changes to specific diets. We investigated the effects of weight loss achieved by two different diets on circulating adipokine levels in obese individuals. Methods: A total of 120 obese patients (body mass index ≥ 35 kg/m2) underwent a three-month screening period on a low-fat, reduced-calorie diet. Patients failing to achieve a 5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2b/01/PMC3160856.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3997091", "abstract": "Interleukin-17A (IL-17A), the most widely studied member of the IL-17 cytokine family, is a cytokine which emerged to be critical for host defense as well as in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders. Moreover, IL-17A is involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis and acute coronary syndrome and in the cardiovascular risk associated with systemic immunological disorders. Consistent with this, we have recently shown that IL-17A increases human and murine platelet response to ADP. In this study we expanded our previous observation and we describe for the first time an in vivo prothrombotic effect of the cytokine. Our results show that IL-17A is synergic with a low FeCl3 concentration in inducing carotid thrombus in rats and suggest that the effect is likely related to a downregulation of CD39 vascular expression and hydrolyzing activity. Our findings indicate that IL-17A might be an important molecule at the interface between hemostasis and inflammation.  “This paper is dedicated to the memory of Professor Alfredo Colonna” ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ae/86/PMC3997091.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5127903", "abstract": "Objective The purpose of this paper is to discuss various statements related to chiropractic identity from1 D. D. Palmer2; selected chiropractic organizations, associations, and colleges; and3 attitudes and perceptions of chiropractic from chiropractic students, practitioners, and patients. Discussion For comparison purposes, identity statements and perceptions from the various chiropractic associations and colleges, as well as from students and patients, were explored. Identity statements for chiropractic were searched in various sources such as Palmer’s 1910 textbook, recent literature on viewpoints from chiropractic students and practitioners, and websites for chiropractic colleges and organizations. Palmer taught that the chiropractor’s focus was on vertebral subluxation. Today, a number of chiropractic colleges and organizations continue to include the vertebral subluxation model in their instruction, with a majority of students and practitioners subscribing to the model. Conversely, a number of other colleges and organizations portray chiropractic as being essentially about the treatment of back and neck pain, which is what patients associate with chiropractic. However, settling on any particular identity for the chiropractic profession will likely be met with resistance by some, given the plethora of opinions among chiropractic professionals as to what the identity of the chiropractic profession should be. Common ground between the different factions within the chiropractic profession might be found in a unifying expression such as “functional neurology.” Conclusion When a profession’s identity is not clear with respect to its area of interest and mission, then the public may be less inclined to seek its services. Identifying the chiropractic profession with a focus on vertebral subluxation would give the profession uniqueness not duplicated by other health care professions and, therefore, might legitimatize the existence of chiropractic as a health care profession. An identity having a focus on vertebral subluxation would also be consistent with the original intent of the founding of the chiropractic profession.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e2/89/PMC5127903.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4948136", "abstract": "Objectives: Contraceptive use among women living with HIV is important to prevent the transmission of the infection to their partners, prevent unintended pregnancies and prevent the mother-to-child transmission of the infection. The study sought to determine the contraceptive characteristics of women living with HIV in the Kumasi metropolis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2012 at two HIV/AIDS clinics in the Kumasi Metropolis in the Ashanti Region, Ghana. Interviewer- administered questionnaires were used to collect data from two hundred and ninety five women. Data from one hundred and eighty three women living with HIV and who were sexually active were analyzed. Factors associated with contraceptive use were examined using logistic regression. Results: The overall contraceptive use was high; 84.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/23/08/IJMA-2-111.PMC4948136.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3023423", "abstract": "Vibrio cholerae in O-group 139 was first isolated in 1992 and by 1993 had been found throughout the Indian subcontinent. This epidemic expansion probably resulted from a single source after a lateral gene transfer (LGT) event that changed the serotype of an epidemic V. cholerae O1 El Tor strain to O139. However, some studies found substantial genetic diversity, perhaps caused by multiple origins. To further explore the relatedness of O139 strains, we analyzed nine sequenced loci from 96 isolates from patients at the Infectious Diseases Hospital, Calcutta, from 1992 to 2000. We found 64 novel alleles distributed among 51 sequence types. LGT events produced three times the number of nucleotide changes compared to mutation. In contrast to the traditional concept of epidemic spread of a homogeneous clone, the establishment of variant alleles generated by LGT during the rapid expansion of a clonal bacterial population may be a paradigm in infections and epidemics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/09/af/PMC3023423.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4716091", "abstract": "A 48-year-old woman with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) presented with generalized edema and arthralgia. She showed evidences of acute glomerulonephritis including nephrotic-ranged proteinuria. Because her serologic test results were consistent with those for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), we performed laparoscopic renal biopsy that confirmed World Health Organization (WHO) class IV lupus nephritis. She was treated with steroids and intravenous cyclophosphamide pulse therapy and eventually started hemodialysis 8 years after the lupus nephritis was diagnosed. To our knowledge, this is the first case wherein a patient with ADPKD underwent a laparoscopic biopsy for diagnosing lupus nephritis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ae/97/main.PMC4716091.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2915530", "abstract": "We describe the long-term complications six years after chemoradiotherapy in a 20-year old woman with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. We wanted to know whether the radiation dose was constant throughout the oral cavity, and thus uniformly affecting the corresponding dental and skeletal structures. Clinical and radiologic findings are described six years after chemoradiotherapy based on a two-dimensional computerized treatment planning system. This revealed radiation caries limited only to posterior teeth, proximal caries in the anterior teeth, limited but continuous salivary flow, mild periodontal infection, mild xerostomia, and a regenerative capacity of bones and the developmental process. The quantitative assessment of radiation delivered to the mandible revealed a high radiation dose in the posterior area and a minimal dose in the anterior area. This explains the differences in caries manifestation between the anterior and posterior teeth. According to the present study, individualized radiation fields, using a two-dimensional treatment planning system, result in restriction of severe damage of the dental and skeletal structures, which usually follows chemoradiotherapy. Orthodontic treatment could be initiated according to individual patient needs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b0/ad/PMC2915530.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4223824", "abstract": "Trichosporon species is an important life-threatening opportunistic systemic pathogen, especially in leukemia patients. Voriconazole is proved to be a promising agent in past decade. However, recently we observed a case of breakthrough Trichosporon asahii infection while receiving voriconazole, which calls for an alternative treatment strategy. A combination therapy of liposomal amphotericin B (AmB) plus caspofungin – in which liposomal AmB dose was reduced due to renal toxicity – was administered to successfully treat this patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fa/38/main.PMC4223824.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5123023", "abstract": "Background The emerging role of stem cell technology and transplantation has helped scientists to study their potential role in neural repair and regeneration. The fate of stem cells is determined by their niche, consisting of surrounding cells and the secreted trophic growth factors. This interim report evaluates the safety, feasibility and efficacy (if any) of bone marrow-derived mononuclear stem cells (BM-MNC) in chronic ischemic stroke by studying the release of serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic growth factor (BDNF). Methods Twenty stroke patients and 20 age-matched healthy controls were recruited with the following inclusion criteria: 3 months to 1.5 years from the index event, Medical Research Council (MRC) grade of hand muscles of at least 2, Brunnstrom stage 2-5, conscious, and comprehendible. They were randomized to one group receiving autologous BM-MNC (mean 60-70 million) and to another group receiving saline infusion (placebo). All patients were administered a neuromotor rehabilitation regime for 8 weeks. Clinical assessments [Fugl Meyer scale (FM), modified Barthel index (mBI), MRC grade, Ashworth tone scale] were carried out and serum VEGF and BDNF levels were assessed at baseline and at 8 weeks. Results No serious adverse events were observed during the study. There was no statistically significant clinical improvement between the groups (FM: 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e3/e3/cee-0006-0107.PMC5123023.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4564019", "abstract": "Purpose of review Microvesicles, in general, and exosomes together with their delivered content in particular, are now being widely recognized as key players in atherosclerosis. We have previously reviewed the role of microvesicles in atherosclerosis pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy. Here, we focus on the roles of exosomes and discuss their emergent role in mediating activation and response to inflammation, vessel infiltration and induction of coagulation. We will finally give an outlook to discuss novel detection techniques and systems biology based data analyses to investigate exosome-mediated cell-to-cell communication. Recent findings Recent research points to a role of exosomes in delivering apoptotic and inflammatory content between blood cells and vascular cells, with a potential contribution of exosomes secreted by adipose tissue. An atheroprotective role of exosomes in response to coagulation that may contrast with the procoagulatory role of platelet-derived larger microvesicles is envisaged. New detection and separation methods and systems biology techniques are emerging. Conclusion We project that the development of novel detection, separation and analysis mechanism and systems-based analysis methods will further unravel the paracrine and endocrine ‘communication protocol’ between cellular players in atherosclerosis, mediating inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5f/f3/colip-26-412.PMC4564019.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4414632", "abstract": "Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a chronic lung disease affecting very premature infants, is a major cause of mortality and long-term morbidities despite of current progress in neonatal intensive care medicine. Though there has not been any effective treatment or preventive strategy for BPD, recent stem cell research seems to support the assumption that stem cell therapy could be a promising and novel therapeutic modality for attenuating BPD severity. This review summarizes the recent advances in stem cell research for treating BPD. In particular, we focused on the preclinical data about stem cell transplantation to improve the lung injury using animal models of neonatal BPD. These translational research provided the data related with the safety issue, optimal type of stem cells, optimal timing, route, and dose of cell transplantation, and potency marker of cells as a therapeutic agent. Those are essential subjects for the approval and clinical translation. In addition, the successful phase I clinical trial results of stem cell therapies for BPD are also discussed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a4/b2/jkms-30-509.PMC4414632.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5173509", "abstract": "We herein report the case of a 72-year-old man demonstrating myasthenia gravis (MG) with a dropped head and acute respiratory insufficiency. There was no ocular, bulbar, or limb involvement. The patient was seronegative for anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies and anti-muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibodies. Subsequent tests showed seropositivity for anti-low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4 (LRP4) antibodies. The addition of steroid pulse therapy resulted in a full remission of his respiratory symptoms. This presentation suggests that LRP4-positive MG should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with acute respiratory insufficiency without either cranial or limb involvement. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/49/1349-7235-55-3361.PMC5173509.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4438339", "abstract": "Objectives To explore clinically relevant differences in severity of vulvar and vaginal atrophy (VVA) in postmenopausal women treated with ospemifene compared with placebo. Methods Analysis of two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, 12-week phase-III studies in postmenopausal women (40–80 years, with VVA, treated with ospemifene 60 mg/day or placebo (Study 310 and Study 821)). Severity of vaginal dryness and dyspareunia were evaluated using a four-point scoring system and clinically relevant differences between ospemifene and placebo were analyzed and are presented as improvement (reduction in ≥ 1 unit on four-point scoring system), substantial improvement (reduction in 2–3 units on four-point scoring system) and relief (severity score of mild/none after 12 weeks). Results In Study 310, significantly more women with a most bothersome symptom of dyspareunia had improvement (68.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c2/db/PMC4438339.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4717978", "abstract": "Background: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a disease with increasing prevalence, which is mainly characterized by increased cardiopulmonary mortality and morbidity. It is well-known that OSAS patients have increased prevalence of cardiovascular diseases including coronary heart disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of prolonged and fragmented QRS complexes, which have previously been associated with cardiovascular mortality, in OSAS patients. Methods: Our study included 51 patients (mean age 41.6 ± 10.1 years) who were recently diagnosed with OSAS (apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] ≥5 events/h) and never received therapy. The control group consisted of 34 volunteers (mean age 43.1 ± 11.6 years) in whom OSAS was excluded (AHI <5 events/h). The longest QRS complexes was measured in the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) and the presence of fragmentation in QRS complexes was investigated. Results: Fragmented QRS frequency was significantly higher in patients with OSAS (n = 31 [61", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/d9/CMJ-128-2141.PMC4717978.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4095908", "abstract": "We present a new computational approach for constant pH simulations in explicit solvent based on the combination of the enveloping distribution sampling (EDS) and Hamiltonian replica exchange (HREX) methods. Unlike constant pH methods based on variable and continuous charge models, our method is based on discrete protonation states. EDS generates a hybrid Hamiltonian of different protonation states. A smoothness parameter s is used to control the heights of energy barriers of the hybrid-state energy landscape. A small s value facilitates state transitions by lowering energy barriers. Replica exchange between EDS potentials with different s values allows us to readily obtain a thermodynamically accurate ensemble of multiple protonation states with frequent state transitions. The analysis is performed with an ensemble obtained from an EDS Hamiltonian without smoothing, s = ∞, which strictly follows the minimum energy surface of the end states. The accuracy and efficiency of this method is tested on aspartic acid, lysine, and glutamic acid, which have two protonation states, a histidine with three states, a four-residue peptide with four states, and snake cardiotoxin with eight states. The pKa values estimated with the EDS-HREX method agree well with the experimental pKa values. The mean absolute errors of small benchmark systems range from 0.03 to 0.17 pKa units, and those of three titratable groups of snake cardiotoxin range from 0.2 to 1.6 pKa units. This study demonstrates that EDS-HREX is a potent theoretical framework, which gives the correct description of multiple protonation states and good calculated pKa values.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1c/14/PMC4095908.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3985806", "abstract": "Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide. Metastatic spreads of lung cancer are often found in the adrenal glands, bone, liver, brain and kidneys; the gastrointestinal tract is less commonly involved. However, according to some reports in the literature, the incidence of gastrointestinal metastases, most of them asymptomatic, might be as frequent as 11", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f7/e7/crg-0008-0077.PMC3985806.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5207332", "abstract": "Background Prevention strategies for pressure ulcer formation remain critical in patients with an advanced illness. We analyzed factors associated with the development of pressure ulcers in patients hospitalized in a palliative care ward setting. Patients and methods This study was a retrospective analysis of 329 consecutive patients with a mean age (± standard deviation) of 70.4±11.8 years (range: 30–96 years, median 70.0 years; 55.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/ae/cia-12-037.PMC5207332.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4539731", "abstract": "Hepatitis C can be cured and even eradicated by new “revolutionary” treatments. However, at present exorbitant prices, Eastern European countries cannot afford the new treatments, while in western rich and developed countries (e.g. Germany and France) they are already available. Concerted efforts of governments, public health officials, and the community at large, are needed to negotiate agreements with pharmaceuticals companies to make the new treatments accessible and affordable. When science has demonstrated that hepatitis C can be cured, it would be unforgivable if millions of infected patients from eastern parts of the continent were denied access to new treatment on grounds of high prices and financial constraints.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/49/e7/hepatmon-15-07-28969.PMC4539731.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC244903", "abstract": "DNA vaccination is a relatively recent development in vaccine methodology. It is now possible to undertake a rational step-by-step approach to DNA vaccine design. Strategies may include the incorporation of immunostimulatory sequences in the backbone of the plasmid, co-expression of stimulatory molecules, utilisation of localisation/secretory signals, and utilisation of the appropriate delivery system, for example. However, another important consideration is the utilisation of methods designed to optimise transgene expression. In this review we discuss the importance of regulatory elements, kozak sequences and codon optimisation in transgene expression.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2c/53/PMC244903.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2957579", "abstract": "A pseudo-arthrosis repair of a 4-year-old bony avulsion fracture of the PCL using a minimally invasive technique, screw fixation, and bone grafting is reported. The case presented seems to be rather unique due to the fragment size and the approach for pseudo-arthrosis repair. There was a good functional result following minimally invasive pseudo-arthrosis repair of a posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fracture. There are no previous reports of similar pseudo-arthrosis repairs, and other authors report good results of delayed refixation of PCL avulsion fractures. Therefore, refixation and pseudo-arthrosis repair should be considered as a viable treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6a/15/167_2010_Article_1114.PMC2957579.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3990175", "abstract": "Primary hepatic lymphoma is a rare malignancy usually presenting with symptoms of fever, hepatomegaly, jaundice and weight loss. This picture mimics infectious and inflammatory disorders and thus delays the diagnosis. Here, we present a 47-year old man with prolonged fever who underwent several investigations and, in the meantime, developed fulminant hepatic failure before the diagnosis could be reached.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d3/e6/mejdd-5-168.PMC3990175.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3600196", "abstract": "In asthma, an important role for innate immunity is increasingly being recognized. Key innate immune cells in the lungs are macrophages. Depending on the signals they receive, macrophages can at least have an M1, M2, or M2-like phenotype. It is unknown how these macrophage phenotypes behave with regard to (the severity of) asthma. We have quantified the phenotypes in three models of house dust mite (HDM-)induced asthma (14, 21, and 24 days). M1, M2, and M2-like phenotypes were identified by interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5), YM1, and IL-10, respectively. We found higher percentages of eosinophils in HDM-exposed mice compared to control but no differences between HDM models. T cell numbers were higher after HDM exposure and were the highest in the 24-day HDM protocol. Higher numbers of M2 macrophages after HDM correlated with higher eosinophil numbers. In mice with less severe asthma, M1 macrophage numbers were higher and correlated negatively with M2 macrophages numbers. Lower numbers of M2-like macrophages were found after HDM exposure and these correlated negatively with M2 macrophages. The balance between macrophage phenotypes changes as the severity of allergic airway inflammation increases. Influencing this imbalanced relationship could be a novel approach to treat asthma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1a/1f/PMC3600196.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4762760", "abstract": "Based on the Huttenlocher lecture, this article describes the need for a more integrative scientific paradigm for addressing important questions raised by key observations made over 2 decades ago. Among these are the early descriptions by Huttenlocher of variability in synaptic density in cortex of postmortem brains of children of different ages and the almost simultaneous reports of cortical volume reductions on MR imaging in children and adolescents. In spite of much progress in developmental neurobiology, developmental cognitive neuroscience, and behavioral and imaging genetics, we still do not know how these early observations relate to each other. It is argued that large scale, collaborative research programs are needed to establish the associations between behavioral differences among children and imaging biomarkers, and to link the latter to cellular changes in the developing brain. Examples of progress and challenges remaining are illustrated with data from the Pediatric Imaging, Neurocognition, and Genetics Project (PING).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/7b/main.PMC4762760.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2988852", "abstract": "An 11-year-old boy presented with a total retinal detachment in his right eye. He had a bilateral 360° argon laser treatment for an active retinopathy of prematurity performed after his birth. He underwent an uneventful pars plana vitrectomy, encircling band, 810-nm diode endolaser and heavy silicone oil (Densiron®) endotamponade. A tonic pupil and abolition of corneal sensitivity, with a large epithelial defect, were observed during the postoperative period. We discuss the possible etiopathogenic mechanisms of the long and short ciliary nerves damage, and the role that retinopathy of prematurity and retinal detachment laser treatment and the encircling band placement might have played in the development of the tonic pupil and the corneal anesthesia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0b/55/cop0001-0066.PMC2988852.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3364439", "abstract": "We report a case of anterior ischemic optic neuropathy associated with udenafil. A 54-year-old male presented with an acute onset visual field defect of the right eye after udenafil use. Examination revealed a relative afferent pupillary defect and a swollen disc. Automated visual fields revealed an enlarged blind spot and a narrowed visual field. Fluorescein angiography revealed both an inferior choroidal filling delay and an inferior sector filling delay of the optic disc in the arteriovenous phase as well as diffuse leakage of the optic disc in the late phase. Optical coherent tomography revealed increased thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer, especially in the area of the inferior disc. The patient was counseled to discontinue the use of udenafil and to monitor his blood pressure regularly. The disc swelling was resolved with residual optic atrophy one month after discontinuing the use of udenafil.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/01/99/kjo-26-235.PMC3364439.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5402308", "abstract": "Abstract. We performed this study to evaluate the associations of hypothyroidism with clinical severity and the occurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at initial diagnosis among pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). 330 children with T1DM who referred to Diabetes Clinic were enrolled. The medical records were e valuated and a blood sample was drawn from patients for measuring thyroid function and antibodies, blood glucose, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) levels. Hypothyroidism was detected in 9.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e4/bb/cpe-26-073.PMC5402308.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5369917", "abstract": "Abstract Rationale: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) in pregnancy may trigger the life-threatening catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS). Complement activation is implicated in the pathogenesis, and inhibition of complement factor C5 is suggested as an additional treatment option. Patient concerns, diagnosis and interventions: We present a pregnant patient treated with the C5-inhibitor eculizumab due to high risk of developing devastating APS-related complications. The complement inhibitory effects of the treatment were examined both in the patient and the premature infant. Outcomes: Complement activity in the mother recovered considerably faster than anticipated; however, no new thrombosis or CAPS developed during the last week of pregnancy or postpartum. Blood sampling from the umbilical vein and artery, and from the infant after delivery showed low complement activity; however, only 0.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ea/b9/medi-96-e6338.PMC5369917.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4831232", "abstract": "ABSTRACT This research investigated the association between the household status of women and their use of maternal health services in rural Egypt. Face-to-face interviews with a structured questionnaire to 201 married women were carried out in a village, posing questions about their health service utilization and their household socio-economic status. The association between service utilization and other variables was statistically analysed. Older ages at first marriage and higher education levels showed significant positive associations with the three outcome variables—regular antenatal care (ANC), deliveries attended by skilled health professionals, and deliveries at heath facilities—of the use of maternal health services. Women who had not experienced physical assaults by husbands and had knowledge of community activities were more likely to receive ANC regularly; however, there were no significant association with the other two outcome variables. Participation in household decision-making and availability of assistance with household chores had no significant linkage to the use of maternal health services. Marriages to husbands with secondary or higher levels of education and residence in extended families were significantly associated with greater maternal health service usage. Our results suggest that the improved status of women in the household and moral support from family members contributes to an increase in the use of maternal health services.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/df/2186-3326-74-0233.PMC4831232.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4197179", "abstract": "Transcatheter arterial radioembolization (TARE) with Yttrium-90 (90Y)-labeled microspheres has an emerging role in treatment of patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Although complication of TARE can be minimized by aggressive pre-evaluation angiography and preventive coiling of aberrant vessels, radioembolization-induced gastroduodenal ulcer can be irreversible and can be life-threatening. Treatment of radioembolization-induced gastric ulcer is challenging because there is a few reported cases and no consensus for management. We report a case of severe gastric ulceration with bleeding that eventually required surgery due to aberrant deposition of microspheres after TARE.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/14/b4/cmh-20-300.PMC4197179.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3620453", "abstract": "Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative movement disorder associated with a selective loss of the dopamine(DA)rgic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and the degeneration of projecting nerve fibers in the striatum. Because there is currently no therapy that delays the neurodegenerative process, modification of the disease course by neuroprotective therapy is an important unmet clinical need. Toward this end, understanding cellular mechanisms that render the nigral neurons particularly vulnerable have been a subject of intensive research. Increasing evidence suggests that oxidative stress plays a major role. The metabolism of DA itself contributes to oxidative stress, resulting in modification of intracellular macromolecules whose functions are important for cell survival. Mitochondrial dysfunction and the consequent increase in reactive oxygen species also trigger a sequence of events that leads to cell demise. In addition, activated microglia produce nitric oxide and superoxide during neuroinflammatory responses, and this is aggravated by the molecules released by damaged DAergic neurons such as α-synuclein, neuromelanin and matrix metalloproteinase-3. Ways to reduce oxidative stress therefore can provide a therapeutic strategy. NAD(P)H:quinone reductase (NQO1) and other antioxidant enzymes, whose gene expression are commonly under the regulation of the transcription factor Nrf2, can serve as target proteins utilized toward development of disease-modifying therapy for PD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3c/77/en-22-11.PMC3620453.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5336629", "abstract": "Chylothorax is a rare clinical condition characterized by high triglyceride and low cholesterol levels in milky pleural aspirate. Generally, it occurs through leakage of chyle as result of trauma or malignancy. Chylothorax due to tuberculous lymphadenitis is very rare clinical condition that has only been documented in a few cases. Although precise pathogenesis is not known, enlarged mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes are thought to be associated with opening of collateral anastomosis between thoracic duct and the azygos and intercostal veins by creating pressure on thoracic duct and cisterna chyli. Presently described is case of chylothorax thought to be due to compression from mediastinal tuberculous lymphadenitis, and which had complete remission after antituberculosis treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/08/df/NCI-3-225.PMC5336629.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3980414", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Bile leak is a serious complication of hepatobiliary surgery. The incidence has remained the same over the last decade despite significant improvement in the results of liver surgery. PRESENTATION OF CASE A 21-year-old man was a passenger in a motor vehicle and sustained a blunt abdominal trauma in a high-speed collision leading to major liver laceration. He had right lobe hepatectomy complicated by major bile leak. He was not fit for further surgery and he, therefore, had ERCP and obliteration of the leaking bile duct using a combination of metallic coil and N-butyl cyanoacrylate. DISCUSSION Endoscopic therapy has become the modality of choice in the treatment of biliary tract injuries. Different modalities of management of persistent bile leak such as sphincterotomy, plastic biliary stents, and nasobiliary drainage have been described. Obliteration of bile duct leak using N-butyl cyanoacrylate and coil embolization has been described but most of these reports used the percutaneous transhepatic approach. CONCLUSION In this paper, we describe the second reported case in English literature of a novel endoscopic technique using a combination of metallic coil embolization and N-butyl cyanoacrylate in a patient with major bile leak who was not a candidate for surgery as well as a third report of the late complication of coil migration to the common bile duct.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b3/fa/main.PMC3980414.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5090094", "abstract": "To study the effects of acupuncture analgesia on the hippocampus, we observed the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitor on pain-excited neurons (PENs) and pain-inhibited neurons (PINs) in the hippocampal area CA1 of sham or chronic constrictive injury (CCI) rats. The animals were randomly divided into a control, a CCI, and a U0126 (MEK1/2 inhibitor) group. In all experiments, we briefly (10-second duration) stimulated the sciatic nerve electrically and recorded the firing rates of PENs and PINs. The results showed that in both sham and CCI rats brief sciatic nerve stimulation significantly increased the electrical activity of PENs and markedly decreased the electrical activity of PINs. These effects were significantly greater in CCI rats compared to sham rats. EA treatment reduced the effects of the noxious stimulus on PENs and PINs in both sham and CCI rats. The effects of EA treatment could be inhibited by U0126 in sham-operated rats. The results suggest that EA reduces effects of acute sciatic nerve stimulation on PENs and PINs in the CA1 region of the hippocampus of both sham and CCI rats and that the ERK (extracellular regulated kinase) signaling pathway is involved in the modulation of EA analgesia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/29/d6/PMC5090094.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2887176", "abstract": "Respiratory muscle weakness is commonplace in critically ill patients, impairing the ability of those patients to breath, prolonging the need for ventilatory support, and increasing the likelihood of respiratory failure when that support is removed. Infections and endotoxemia reduce respiratory muscle strength, probably acting through several mechanisms. It is reported that the omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) attenuates the loss in diaphragm specific force generation (that is, diaphragm strength) induced by bacterial endotoxin treatment in rats. EPA is found in fish oils. EPA reduces calpain activation, suggesting a specific effect on this proteolytic pathway. It will be important to identify whether this effect occurs in patients receiving EPA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f9/ac/PMC2887176.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4603407", "abstract": "The bacterial adhesion lectin LecA is an attractive target for interference with the infectivity of its producer P. aeruginosa. Divalent ligands with two terminal galactoside moieties connected by an alternating glucose-triazole spacer were previously shown to be very potent inhibitors. In this study, we chose to prepare a series of derivatives with various new substituents in the spacer in hopes of further enhancing the LecA inhibitory potency of the molecules. Based on the binding mode, modifications were made to the spacer to enable additional spacer–protein interactions. The introduction of positively charged, negatively charged, and also lipophilic functional groups was successful. The compounds were good LecA ligands, but no improved binding was seen, even though altered thermodynamic parameters were observed by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/31/open0004-0463.PMC4603407.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4869514", "abstract": "Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques are now well-established and play a crucial role in improving survival in cardiac arrest. Recognized complications associated with CPR include injury to the upper abdominal viscera, including the liver, stomach and spleen. We present a rare case of occult splenic rupture following cardiac arrest in a 63-year-old male immediately after left pneumonectomy. We discuss potential mechanisms predisposing the spleen to injury in this case, and highlight the difficulty of promptly identifying such a traumatic injury within the confines of a cardiac arrest scenario. Clinicians should be aware that anatomical changes following thoracic surgery may render the intra-abdominal viscera at increased risk of injury following CPR.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/9b/rjw091.PMC4869514.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3628129", "abstract": "Summary Background Nocturnal sleep of patients suffering from various forms of dementia is often impaired by nocturnal agitation or nocturnal wandering. Anticonvulsives such as carbamazepine or valproate are reported to have some therapeutic efficacy, but there is little information about other drugs suitable for treatment of this condition. Case Report Our patient, a 77-year-old Czech woman with incipient vascular dementia, received gabapentin 400mg at bedtime for 6 months and showed convincing improvement. Conclusions Gabapentin was very effective in treating nocturnal agitation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/48/5f/PMC3628129.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3864438", "abstract": "Previous studies by our group showed that nicotine delivered via a transdermal nicotine patch significantly enhanced posterior spinal fusion rates in rabbits. Nicotine transdermal patches provide a steady serum level; there may be a dose-dependent effect of nicotine on posterior spinal fusion. In an in vitro cell culture model of rabbit bone marrow–derived osteoblast-like cells, cells were exposed to different concentrations of nicotine (0, 20, 40, 80 ng/mL and 10, 100, 250 μg/mL). Wells were stained with an alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining kit to determine ALP enzyme activity. Cells were stained with Von Kossa for mineralization. A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using dose and time as variables showed significant differences among groups; post hoc analysis showed that the 100-μg/mL dose of nicotine significantly enhanced ALP activity over controls. A one-way ANOVA using dose as the variable showed that the 100- and 250-μg/mL doses had significantly greater mineralization than controls. Dose-response analysis revealed a statistically significant effect of nicotine dose on ALP activity and Von Kossa activity. The effects of nicotine on spinal fusion may be dose-dependent and due to stimulation of osteoblastic activity. Nicotine may not be responsible for the inhibited bone healing observed in smokers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8b/56/PMC3864438.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4192524", "abstract": "Objective The aim of this study was to assess artifacts induced by metallic restorations in three-dimensional (3D) dental surface models derived by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods Fifteen specimens, each with four extracted human premolars and molars embedded in a plaster block, were scanned by CBCT before and after the cavitated second premolars were restored with dental amalgam. Five consecutive surface models of each specimen were created according to increasing restoration size: no restoration (control) and small occlusal, large occlusal, disto-occlusal, and mesio-occluso-distal restorations. After registering each restored model with the control model, maximum linear discrepancy, area, and intensity of the artifacts were measured and compared. Results Artifacts developed mostly on the buccal and lingual surfaces. They occurred not only on the second premolar but also on the first premolar and first molar. The parametric values increased significantly with increasing restoration size. Conclusions Metallic restorations induce considerable artifacts in 3D dental surface models. Artifact reduction should be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis and treatment planning when using 3D surface model derived by CBCT in dentofacial deformity patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/9a/kjod-44-229.PMC4192524.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3843913", "abstract": "Growing teratoma syndrome (GTS) is defined as metastatic masses during or after chemotherapy for germ cell tumors, which contain only mature teratoma components. The peritoneum of the pelvis and abdomen and the retroperitoneum are the most frequent sites of metastasis. We report a case of GTS of the ovary showing three patterns of metastasis: dissemination, lymphogenous metastasis, and hematogenous metastasis. The patient initially presented 5 years ago with a mixed germ cell tumor of the left ovary and positive cytology of ascites. After surgery and chemotherapy, mature teratomas recurred as pelvic peritoneal dissemination, a para-aortic lymph node mass, and a lung mass. Our case highlights the importance of long-term follow-up and a whole-body search. We think that our case is suggestive regarding the mechanism of critical GTS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a0/f9/cro-0006-0544.PMC3843913.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3355861", "abstract": "Epidemiologic studies have demonstrated an association between intrauterine growth retardation and a greater risk of chronic disease, including coronary heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and type 2 diabetes in adulthood. An adverse intrauterine environment may affect both growth and development of the organism, permanently programming endocrine and metabolic functions. One of the mechanisms of programming is the epigenetic modification of gene promoters involved in the control of key metabolic pathways. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the experimental evidence showing the effects of early exposure to suboptimal environment on epigenome. The knowledge of the epigenetic markers of programming may allow the identification of susceptible individuals and the design of targeted prevention strategies.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/59/a5/PMC3355861.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3986637", "abstract": "The protective effect of ginsenoside Re, isolated from ginseng berry, against acute gastric mucosal lesions was examined in rats with a single intraperitoneal injection of compound 48/80 (C48/80). Ginsenoside Re (20 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg) was orally administered 0.5 h prior to C48/80 treatment. Ginsenoside Re dose-dependently prevented gastric mucosal lesion development 3 h after C48/80 treatment. Increases in the activities of myeloperoxidase (MPO; an index of neutrophil infiltration) and xanthine oxidase (XO) and the content of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS; an index of lipid peroxidation) and decreases in the contents of hexosamine (a marker of gastric mucus) and adherent mucus, which occurred in gastric mucosal tissues after C48/80 treatment, were significantly attenuated by ginsenoside Re. The elevation of Bax expression and the decrease in Bcl2 expression after C48/80 treatment were also attenuated by ginsenoside Re. Ginsenoside Re significantly attenuated all these changes 3 h after C48/80 treatment. These results indicate that orally administered ginsenoside Re protects against C48/80-induced acute gastric mucosal lesions in rats, possibly through its stimulatory action on gastric mucus synthesis and secretion, its inhibitory action on neutrophil infiltration, and enhanced lipid peroxidation in the gastric mucosal tissue.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bd/e0/main.PMC3986637.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4716117", "abstract": "Nephrotic syndrome (NS) rarely occurs after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) as a late manifestation of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Herein, we report a case of HSCT-associated membranous nephropathy in a female patient with aplastic anemia. The patient received an allogeneic HSCT from her human leukocyte antigen-identical brother following myeloablative conditioning chemotherapy. NS occurred 21 months after HSCT without any concurrent features of chronic GVHD. The patient was treated with prednisolone and cyclosporine after renal biopsy confirmed membranous nephropathy, and achieved complete remission. Our report contradicts previous assumptions that concomitant chronic GVHD is responsible for the development of NS, suggesting that NS can develop as a new, independent manifestation of GVHD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/5c/main.PMC4716117.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3687513", "abstract": "The purpose of this paper is to systematically review the experimental and human studies on obesogenic chemicals and their mechanisms of action to provide a comprehensive view on the multifactorial aspects of obesity. The literatures were searched in available databases. The relevant papers were selected in three phases. After quality assessment, two reviewers extracted the data while another checked their extracted data. In this review, we summarized information regarding environmental chemicals that can be associated with obesity. Most evidence comes from experimental and laboratory studies; however a growing number of human studies also support the role of obesogenic chemicals. The current evidence proposes that the systemic responses to exposure to environmental factors could potentially increase the risk of excess weight. The effects of exposure to these chemicals are of crucial importance during developmental phases of life, when preprogramming for an adipogenic outcome may occur. By considering the adverse transgenerational effects of obesogen chemicals on human health, the global obesity epidemic should be considered as a multifactorial complex disorder necessitating the emphasis of public health interventions for environmental protection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/54/72/PMC3687513.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4808661", "abstract": "Affective disorders are a leading cause of disabilities worldwide, and the etiology of these many affective disorders such as depression and posttraumatic stress disorder is due to hormone changes, which includes hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis in the peripheral nervous system and neuromodulators in the central nervous system. Consistent with pharmacological studies indicating that medical treatment acts by increasing the concentration of catecholamine, the locus coeruleus (LC)/norepinephrine (NE) system is regarded as a critical part of the central “stress circuitry,” whose major function is to induce “fight or flight” behavior and fear and anger emotion. Despite the intensive studies, there is still controversy about NE with fear and anger. For example, the rats with LC ablation were more reluctant to leave a familiar place and took longer to consume the food pellets in an unfamiliar place (neophobia, i.e., fear in response to novelty). The reason for this discrepancy might be that NE is not only for flight (fear), but also for fight (anger). Here, we try to review recent literatures about NE with stress induced emotions and their relations with mental disorders. We propose that stress induced NE release can induce both fear and anger. “Adrenaline rush or norepinephrine rush” and fear and anger emotion might act as biomarkers for mental disorders. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/ee/PMC4808661.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3684729", "abstract": "Background The purpose of this study was to design a valid questionnaire to the Iranian culture for dementia diagnosis and more specifically in its early stage. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2012 in Memory Clinic of Roozbeh Hospital and Iranian Alzheimer Association in Tehran in 2012. Among 235 subjects, there were 72 patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), 137 patients with other types of dementia, and 26 subjects with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), which 107 of them were male. Moreover, 42 healthy subjects were selected as control group. We considered psychometric properties of the Cleveland Scale of Activity Daily Living (CSADL) questionnaire and used standard making operations according to exploratory factor analysis. Results: Three factors were extracted: self-care (21 items), language skills (14 items), and planning (7 items). Convergent validity was 0.86 and cut off point for total, basic and instrumental scores respectively was 20, 3 and 20. Conclusion: It can be claimed that Persian Version of CSADL psychometric questionnaire has appropriate indicators and can serve as a useful tool for research in dementia and in its early stage. It can also enable the implementation of scientific research in academic and medical centers on dementia in general and Alzheimer’s disease specifically in Iran.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8c/b9/ijph-42-417.PMC3684729.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4874741", "abstract": "Diabetes is the fifth leading cause of death worldwide. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening acute complication of diabetes. The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical and biochemical characteristics of DKA among 400 patients admitted to hospital, most of whom had type 1 diabetes (n = 372; 93", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ba/85/PMC4874741.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4713816", "abstract": "[Purpose] Hemiplegia occurs when posturing with a dominant flexor tone is present in the upper limbs, thus preventing increased abnormal tone. We attempted to improve the side effects of this condition using elbow re-positioning with non-elastic tape; this method is used to modulate abnormal muscle tone in chronic hemiplegic stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] Fourteen post-stroke patients were included in this study. Non-elastic tape was applied to the elbow joint in a spiral manner. Before and after the tape was applied, the degree of spasticity (hypertonia) was measured in the elbow flexor muscles using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). Global synkinesis (GS) intensity using electromyography (EMG) was measured in the biceps brachii and triceps brachii during voluntary isometric elbow contractions of the contralateral upper limbs. [Results] Application of non-elastic tape at the elbow joint significantly changed the GS intensity, but no significant changes were found when compared with the MAS. [Conclusion] This study demonstrates that non-elastic tape can be used to decrease abnormal elbow flexor tone. The findings may be used to influence the choice of intervention regarding muscle tone and spastic elbow flexion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/03/da/jpts-27-3901.PMC4713816.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3879898", "abstract": "Meiosis is a process of fundamental importance for sexually reproducing eukaryotes. During meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair with each other and undergo homologous recombination, ultimately producing haploid sets of recombined chromosomes that will be inherited by the offspring. Compared with the extensive progress that has been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying recombination, how homologous sequences pair with each other is still poorly understood. The diversity of the underlying mechanisms of pairing present in different organisms further increases the complexity of this problem. Involvement of meiosis-specific noncoding RNA in the pairing of homologous chromosomes has been found in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Although different organisms may have developed other or additional systems that are involved in chromosome pairing, the findings in S. pombe will provide new insights into understanding the roles of noncoding RNA in meiosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/d8/10577_2013_Article_9389.PMC3879898.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5382762", "abstract": "We screened squirrels in Germany and the Netherlands for the novel zoonotic variegated squirrel bornavirus 1 (VSBV-1). The detection of VSBV-1 in 11 squirrels indicates a considerable risk for transmission to humans handling those animals. Therefore, squirrels in contact with humans should routinely be tested for VSBV-1.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1c/22/PMC5382762.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5047277", "abstract": "This Letter introduces a feasibility study of a scanning system for applications in biomedical bone imaging operating in the microwave range 0.5–4 GHz. Mechanical uncertainties and data acquisition time are minimised by using a fully automated scanner that controls two antipodal Vivaldi antennas. Accurate antenna positioning and synchronisation with data acquisition enables a rigorous proof-of-concept for the microwave imaging procedure of a multi-layer phantom including skin, fat, muscle and bone tissues. The presence of a suitable coupling medium enables antenna miniaturisation and mitigates the impedance mismatch between antennas and phantom. The three-dimensional image of tibia and fibula is successfully reconstructed by scanning the multi-layer phantom due to the distinctive dielectric contrast between target and surrounding tissues. These results show the viability of a microwave bone imaging technology which is low cost, portable, non-ionising, and does not require specially trained personnel. In fact, as no a-priori characterisation of the antenna is required, the image formation procedure is very conveniently simplified.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/99/17/HTL.2016.0003.PMC5047277.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4462988", "abstract": "Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) are used for a variety of infusion therapies. They are indicated in patients requiring long-term venous access. Incorrect positioning of the insertion of a PICC line is one of the known complications when inserting the device in clinical practice. Radiographers once performing imaging will commonly check if the tip of a PICC has entered the superior vena cava. This case study will report on a lesser known incorrect placement of a PICC line into the azygous vein and how this can be detected on radiographic imaging. This outcome for the patient can be detrimental as it has an increased risk of perforation, thrombus, and fistula formation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/fc/70/jmrs0062-0160.PMC4462988.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2817860", "abstract": "Variola major, the causative agent of smallpox, has been eradicated from nature. However, stocks still exist; thus, there is a need for relevant decontamination studies, preferably with nonpathogenic simulants. Previous studies have shown a similarity in response of vaccinia virus and variola major to various decontaminants and thermal inactivation. This study compared vaccinia and fowlpox viruses under similar conditions, using disinfectants and temperatures for which variola major data already existed. Most disinfectants showed similar efficacy against vaccinia and fowlpox, suggesting the utility of fowlpox as a decontamination simulant. Inactivation kinetics studies showed that fowlpox behaved similarly to variola major when treated with 0.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8c/c4/PMC2817860.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3984797", "abstract": " Background. Oxidative stress is well documented in multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions, but its correspondence at peripheral level is still controversial.  Objective. To evaluate peripheral oxidative stress markers in MS patients.  Methods. We studied total blood levels of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), oxidized and reduced forms of glutathione, malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species (ROS), anti-oxidized-low-density lipoproteins (anti-oxLDL) antibodies, and antioxidant power (PAO) in 87 patients with different MS clinical phenotypes and in 77 controls.  Results. CoQ10 was lower whereas anti-oxLDL antibodies titer was higher in MS patients than in controls. The benign variant of MS displayed both higher CoQ10 and higher anti-oxLDL than other MS clinical variants. Female patients had lower CoQ10 and PAO and higher ROS than male patients. Differences were greater in younger patients with shorter disease duration. Surprisingly, there was no difference for these markers between treated and untreated patients.  Conclusion. We found lower antioxidant agents and higher anti-oxLDL antibodies in MS, and the highest antibody titers occurred in the benign form. We suggest that natural anti-oxLDL antibodies can be protective against MS, saving blood brain barrier integrity. Our findings also suggest that milder MS is associated with a distinct oxidative stress pattern, which may provide a useful biomarker of disease prognosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e5/aa/PMC3984797.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3155045", "abstract": "Sling procedures are a widely proven treatment for stress urinary incontinence. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the effect of the transobturator tape on female sexual functioning. Fifty-four women treated for stress urinary incontinence with transobturator tape filled out self-administered questionnaires on quality of life, urinary incontinence, and sexual function prior to surgery and 6 weeks and 12 months postoperatively. Preoperatively, 40 women (78", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/aa/10397_2010_Article_643.PMC3155045.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5321854", "abstract": "Agonist stimulation of smooth muscle is known to activate RhoA/Rho kinase signaling, and Rho kinase phosphorylates the myosin targeting subunit (MYPT1) of myosin light chain (MLC) phosphatase at Thr696 and Thr853, which inhibits the activity of MLC phosphatase to produce a Ca2+ independent increase in MLC phosphorylation and force (Ca2+ sensitization). Alternative mRNA splicing produces four MYPT1 isoforms, which differ by the presence or absence of a central insert (CI) and leucine zipper (LZ). This study was designed to determine if Rho kinase differentially phosphorylates MYPT1 isoforms. In HEK293T cells expressing each of the four MYPT1 isoforms, we could not detect a change in Thr853 MYPT1 phosphorylation following GTPγS treatment. However, there is differential phosphorylation of MYPT1 isoforms at Thr696; GTPγS treatment increases MYPT1 phosphorylation for the CI+LZ- and CI-LZ- MYPT1 isoforms, but not the CI+LZ+ or CI-LZ+ MYPT1 isoforms. These data could suggest that in smooth muscle Rho kinase differentially phosphorylates MYPT1 isoforms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/77/cd/jsmr-52-066.PMC5321854.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4625651", "abstract": "Muscle damage is induced by both high-intensity resistance and endurance exercise. Creatine is a widely used dietary supplement to improve exercise performance by reducing exercise-induced muscle damage. Many researchers have suggested that taking creatine reduces muscle damage by decreasing the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, regulating calcium homeostasis, and activating satellite cells. However, the underlying mechanisms of creatine and muscle damage have not been clarified. Therefore, this review discusses the regulatory effects of creatine on muscle damage by compiling the information collected from basic science and sports science research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4e/38/jer-11-5-244.PMC4625651.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5066021", "abstract": "Accumulating evidence reveals involvement of T lymphocytes and adaptive immunity in the chronic inflammation associated with infectious and noninfectious diseases of the heart, including coronary artery disease, Kawasaki disease, myocarditis, dilated cardiomyopathies, Chagas, hypertensive left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, and nonischemic heart failure. Chemokine CXCL10 is elevated in cardiovascular diseases, along with increased cardiac infiltration of proinflammatory Th1 and cytotoxic T cells. CXCL10 is a chemoattractant for these T cells and polarizing factor for the proinflammatory phenotype. Thus, targeting the CXCL10 receptor CXCR3 is a promising therapeutic approach to treating cardiac inflammation. Due to biased signaling CXCR3 also couples to anti-inflammatory signaling and immunosuppressive regulatory T cell formation when activated by CXCL11. Numbers and functionality of regulatory T cells are reduced in patients with cardiac inflammation, supporting the utility of biased agonists or biologicals to simultaneously block the pro-inflammatory and activate the anti-inflammatory actions of CXCR3. Other immunotherapy strategies to boost regulatory T cell actions include intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy, adoptive transfer, immunoadsorption, and low-dose interleukin-2/interleukin-2 antibody complexes. Pharmacological approaches include sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1 agonists and vitamin D supplementation. A combined strategy of switching CXCR3 signaling from pro- to anti-inflammatory and improving Treg functionality is predicted to synergistically lessen adverse cardiac remodeling.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b4/7f/PMC5066021.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2889687", "abstract": "No generic function for the minicolumn – i.e., one that would apply equally well to all cortical areas and species – has yet been proposed. I propose that the minicolumn does have a generic functionality, which only becomes clear when seen in the context of the function of the higher-level, subsuming unit, the macrocolumn. I propose that: (a) a macrocolumn's function is to store sparse distributed representations of its inputs and to be a recognizer of those inputs; and (b) the generic function of the minicolumn is to enforce macrocolumnar code sparseness. The minicolumn, defined here as a physically localized pool of ∼20 L2/3 pyramidals, does this by acting as a winner-take-all (WTA) competitive module, implying that macrocolumnar codes consist of ∼70 active L2/3 cells, assuming ∼70 minicolumns per macrocolumn. I describe an algorithm for activating these codes during both learning and retrievals, which causes more similar inputs to map to more highly intersecting codes, a property which yields ultra-fast (immediate, first-shot) storage and retrieval. The algorithm achieves this by adding an amount of randomness (noise) into the code selection process, which is inversely proportional to an input's familiarity. I propose a possible mapping of the algorithm onto cortical circuitry, and adduce evidence for a neuromodulatory implementation of this familiarity-contingent noise mechanism. The model is distinguished from other recent columnar cortical circuit models in proposing a generic minicolumnar function in which a group of cells within the minicolumn, the L2/3 pyramidals, compete (WTA) to be part of the sparse distributed macrocolumnar code.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c0/4a/PMC2889687.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3732645", "abstract": "Up to date several authors discussed interactions between cells forming inflammatory infiltrates in the course of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), mainly dealing with endoscopic biopsy specimens. These usually contain only mucosa. We have evaluated full bowel wall sections, which seems to be especially important in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). The purpose of our study was to evaluate the relationship between vascular density and expression of thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR-1) in full-thickness tissue fragments of intestinal wall taken from patients after colectomy, comparing those with IBD to non-IBD control group. Histological sections were immunostained with antibodies against CD-31, TSP-1, and VEGFR-1 and analyzed by pathologists with the use of computer-assisted morphometrics. Our research showed significantly higher vascular density and vascular area percentage in all layers of bowel wall in patients with CD when compared to control. We have also demonstrated differences in vascular density distribution between ulcerative colitis (CU) and CD and between CU and control. However we have not found statistically significant correlation between those findings and VEGFR-1 or TSP-1 expression. Our results might suggest existence of different, TSP-1 independent pathways of antiangiogenesis in IBD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8a/03/PMC3732645.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4969042", "abstract": "Purpose To compare femtosecond laser-assisted capsulotomy with conventional manual capsulorhexis in cases of white cataract. Patients and methods The prospective comparative study enrolled 80 eyes (80 patients) with white cataract that underwent either femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (Group I, n=40) or conventional manual phacoemulsification (Group II, n=40) at a tertiary care ophthalmic institution. The groups were divided based on the patient’s choice and affordability of the procedure. Capsulotomy/capsulorhexis was evaluated in terms of size, circularity index (4Π [area/perimeter]), intraocular lens coverage, and continuity. Each group was further subdivided based on the release of white milky fluid on initiation of the capsulotomy/capsulorhexis, and the “fluid” cases were compared with the “no-fluid” cases. The primary outcome measure was capsulotomy/capsulorhexis characteristics in the two groups. The secondary outcome measures were intraoperative phacoemulsification parameters, intraoperative complications, and postoperative visual acuity. Results The size of the capsulotomy/capsulorhexis was 4.9±0.1 mm in Group I and 5.3±0.4 mm in Group II (P<0.001). Mean circularity index was 0.996±0.003 and 0.909±0.047 in Groups I and II, respectively (P<0.001). In Group I, free-floating circular capsulotomies were obtained in 52.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/42/e3/opth-10-1357.PMC4969042.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3786111", "abstract": " Introduction. There is an established fact that Asian breast cancer patients are, on average, younger than their European counterparts. This study aimed to utilize the data from the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents I through XIII (published by the International Agency for Research on Cancer) to examine what contributes to the younger age at onset in the Asian population. Material and Methods. Data (number of breast cancer cases and corresponding population figures) for 29 registries in Europe and 9 registries in Asia for the period of 1953–2002 was accessioned and pooled to form two distinct populations, Asia and Europe. The age specific rates were defined and analyzed cross-sectionally (period wise) and longitudinally (cohort wise). The magnitude and the pattern of age specific rates were analyzed using the age-period-cohort analysis. The constrained generalized linear model with a priority assumption of cohort effect as contributing factor to changing rates was used to analyze the data. Result. During the last 50 years, the rate of breast cancer increased for both populations with an estimated annual percent change of 1.03", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/64/7c/PMC3786111.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2664278", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its associated factors in middle-aged women with 11 years or more of formal education. METHODS A cross-sectional, population-based study was carried out using an anonymous, self-response questionnaire. A total of 315 Brazilian-born women, 40–65 years of age with 11 years or more of schooling, participated in the study. The instrument used in the evaluation was based on the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire. Sexual dysfunction was calculated from the mean score of sexual responsiveness (pleasure in sexual activities, excitation and orgasm), frequency of sexual activities and libido. Sociodemographic and clinical factors were evaluated. Poisson multiple regression analysis was carried out and the prevalence ratios with respective 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c6/a7/PMC2664278.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1160133", "abstract": "Nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) are prevalent in genomes and are closely associated with inherited diseases. To facilitate identifying disease-associated nsSNPs from a large number of neutral nsSNPs, it is important to develop computational tools to predict the nsSNP's phenotypic effect (disease-associated versus neutral). nsSNPAnalyzer, a web-based software developed for this purpose, extracts structural and evolutionary information from a query nsSNP and uses a machine learning method called Random Forest to predict the nsSNP's phenotypic effect. nsSNPAnalyzer server is available at .", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c9/a0/PMC1160133.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3894514", "abstract": "Renal artery stenosis is a cause of secondary hypertension which can be cured by surgical or radiological intervention such as percutaneous transluminal renal artery stent placement. In this case we present a subcapsular hematoma of the kidney, a complication following percutaneous transluminal stent placement in the renal artery. Reperfusion injury to the kidney may be a possible mechanism of subcapsular hematoma of the kidney. Long standing severe renal artery stenosis and high pre- and post-procedure pressure gradient might contribute to the complication.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/90/PMC3894514.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5443428", "abstract": "Brucellosis is a multisystem zoonotic disease. We report an unusual case of neurobrucellosis with seizures in an immunocompromised patient in Saudi Arabia who underwent renal transplantation. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed diffuse white matter lesions. Serum and cerebrospinal fluid were positive for Brucella sp. Granuloma was detected in a brain biopsy specimen.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/af/4b/PMC5443428.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4733305", "abstract": "Introduction: The aim of this study is to describe the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the treatment of methamphetamine-induced withdrawal delirium and craving in a single case. Case Presentation: A 44-year-old male presented to the hospital in Fars province, Iran, with Methamphetamine-Induced Withdrawal Delirium who responded to ECT. Conclusions: The electroconvulsive therapy can be a suitable option for the treatment of methamphetamine withdrawal delirium and craving. Also, it can be usefully employed in these very serious conditions which may represent a risk to life.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dc/94/ijpbs-09-1793.PMC4733305.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3388685", "abstract": "In the previous issue of Critical Care, Bojan and colleagues reported their experiences with high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) after pediatric cardiac surgery. A total of 120 patients were treated with HFOV on the day of surgery, thus excluding rescue HFOV use. The main finding of the authors was that the duration of mechanical ventilation was significantly shorter in patients in whom HFOV was initiated on the day of surgery. Especially interesting about this work is that the authors used HFOV when there was evidence of pulmonary hypertension or right ventricular (RV) failure in their patients. This is an interesting approach as it is often assumed that high intra-thoracic pressures increase RV afterload and thus may enhance RV dysfunction. The findings of Bojan and colleagues may be explained by the fact that they were able to decrease the pulmonary vascular resistance by finding a proper balance between atelectasis and overdistension of the lung. It can be argued that it is possible to do so by applying positive end-expiratory pressure. But, at the same time, this may coincide with the delivery of high inspiratory pressures (>30 cm H2O). As HFOV is, in fact, a continuous positive airway pressure system, its advantage is that it is possible to maintain sufficient lung volume without large injurious pressure swings. Although the observations by Bojan and colleagues need to be confirmed in a prospective randomized trial, they have provided arguments not to rule out the early use of HFOV in pediatric cardiac surgery patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b1/aa/PMC3388685.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3398095", "abstract": "Intravascular lymphoma (IVL) is a rare disease form of malignant lymphoma, and it is characterised by the selective growth of lymphoma cells within the lumina of vessels. Identification of this disease at an early stage is difficult because of non-specific clinical symptoms and neuroradiological findings. Most reported IVL cases are diagnosed at post-mortem following autopsy. We report the case of a patient who presented with status epilepticus (SE) as the initial manifestation of IVL. Despite the administration of anti-convulsant agents and general care the patient's condition deteriorated rapidly after admission, culminating in death due to respiratory failure and heart failure 21 days after the onset of symptoms. Post-mortem examination revealed IVL in the brain and multiple organs. Epileptic seizures often appear during the clinical course of IVL; however, they occur most frequently at advanced stages. Diagnosis of IVL that first presents with SE is of clinical importance because the treatment and prognosis of acute SE arising from IVL are different from those of SE originating from other causes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/73/crn-0004-0107.PMC3398095.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4600117", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Changes in the gut microbiome are often associated with disease. One of the major goals in microbiome research is determining which components of this complex system are responsible for the observed differences in health state. Most studies apply a reductionist approach, wherein individual organisms are evaluated independently of the surrounding context of the microbiome. While such methods have yielded valuable insights into the microbiome, they fail to identify patterns that may be obscured by contextual variation. A recent report by Schubert et al. [A. M. Schubert, H. Sinani, and P. D. Schloss, mBio 6(4):e00974-15, 2015, doi: 10.1128/mBio.00974-15] communicates an alternative approach to the study of the microbiome’s association with host health. By coupling a multifactored experimental design with regression modeling, the authors are able to profile context-dependent changes in the microbiome and predict health status. This work underscores the value of incorporating model-based procedures into the investigation of the microbiome and illustrates the potential clinical transformations that may arise through their use.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/89/93/mBio.01367-15.PMC4600117.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5402627", "abstract": "Anthracyclines constitute the backbone of intensive adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML) therapy. Cardiotoxicity is one of its most serious adverse effects, and its incidence increases with cumulative dose. Dexrazoxane is a cardioprotective agent used in conjunction with anthracycline therapy. There is limited data of its usage in adult AML patients. We report the outcomes of six older adults at high risk of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity who received dexrazoxane during induction/re-induction therapy. Five had preserved left-ventricular function while two proceeded onto stem-cell transplantation. Additional investigation of dexrazoxane in adult leukemia therapy is warranted, particularly in older patients at highest risk for cardiovascular mortality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/14/12/main.PMC5402627.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3981310", "abstract": "We present the case of a 7-year old boy with traumatic brain injury who received propofol during 38 h. Thirty-six hours after cessation of propofol infusion asystole occurred. After immediate mechanical and medical resuscitation, unreactive dilated pupils were observed. The following computed tomography scan revealed a generalized brain edema with transtentorial herniation. Prolonged bradyarrhythmia, rhabdomyolysis, and peracute renal failure were observed. Despite immediate craniectomy, barbiturate treatment, hemofiltration, and recovery of appropriate cardiac function, the patient died four days after discontinuation of propofol. In this case, metabolic acidosis, cardiac failure, rhabdomyolysis, and renal failure are in accordance with the symptoms of propofol infusion syndrome (PRIS), while seizure, brain edema, and transtentorial herniation could be caused by traumatic brain injury. However, it may be assumed that the entire clinical picture was caused by PRIS. This view could be explained by a common loss of function of ryanodine receptors in patients presenting with PRIS.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2a/fc/PMC3981310.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5051613", "abstract": "A 59-year-old man presented to the emergency department with a chief complaint of sore throat after swallowing sodium picosulfate/magnesium citrate powder for bowel preparation, without first dissolving it in water. The initial evaluation showed significant mucosal injury involving the oral cavity, pharynx, and epiglottis. Endotracheal intubation was performed for airway protection in the emergency department, because the mucosal swelling resulted in upper airway compromise. After conservative treatment in the intensive care unit, he underwent tracheostomy because stenosis of the supraglottic and subglottic areas was not relieved. The tracheostomy tube was successfully removed after confirming recovery, and he was discharged 3 weeks after admission.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/aa/e0/ceem-15-023.PMC5051613.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5224778", "abstract": "Key Clinical Message Unlike chemoimmunotherapy regimens, which are given for a defined period, ibrutinib, a first‐in‐class Bruton's kinase inhibitor, allows most patients with CLL to remain on treatment for an extended period. Our experience, supported by sequential CT scan images, suggests that long‐term ibrutinib promotes a high response rate that improves in quality with time.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/c1/CCR3-5-75.PMC5224778.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3830820", "abstract": "Urinary tract infection is one of the common infections in the Indian community. Distribution and susceptibility of UTI-causing pathogens change according to time and place. This study was conducted to determine the distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility of uropathogens in the Indian community as well as to determine the effect of gender and age on the etiology of bacterial uropathogens. Clean catch midstream urine samples were collected from 288 patients of the age ranging from 15 to ≥48 years. Antimicrobial susceptibility was performed on all isolated bacteria by Kirby Bauer's disc diffusion method. The multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index of each antibiotic was calculated. The UTI prevalence was 53.82", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/dc/PMC3830820.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4012267", "abstract": "Brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer death in children, with ependymoma being the third most common and posing a significant clinical burden. Its mechanism of pathogenesis, reliable prognostic indicators, and effective treatments other than surgical resection have all remained elusive. Until recently, ependymoma research was hindered by the small number of tumors available for study, low resolution of cytogenetic techniques, and lack of cell lines and animal models. Ependymoma heterogeneity, which manifests as variations in tumor location, patient age, histological grade, and clinical behavior, together with the observation of a balanced genomic profile in up to 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/95/16/cjc-30-10-669.PMC4012267.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4437347", "abstract": " Current discovery demonstrates the rapid formation of platinum nanoparticles using leaf extract of a neurobeneficial plant, Bacopa monnieri (BmE). The nanoparticles (BmE-PtNPs) were stabilized and then coated with varied phytochemicals present within the leaf extract. These nanoparticles demonstrated the same activity of Complex I, as that of oxidizing NADH to NAD+ using a spectrophotometric method. This suggests that BmE-PtNPs are a potential medicinal substance for oxidative stress mediated disease with suppressed mitochondrial complex I, namely, Parkinson's disease (PD). Hence, the neuroprotective potentials of the phytochemical coated nanoparticle were explored in 1-methyl 4-phenyl 1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine- (MPTP-)induced experimental Parkinsonism in zebrafish model. BmE-PtNPs pretreatment significantly reversed toxic effects of MPTP by increasing the levels of dopamine, its metabolites, GSH and activities of GPx, catalase, SOD and complex I, and reducing levels of MDA along with enhanced locomotor activity. Taken together, these findings suggest that BmE-PtNPs have protective effect in MPTP-induced neurotoxicity in this model of Parkinson's disease via their dual functions as mitochondrial complex I and antioxidant activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3f/63/PMC4437347.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3199080", "abstract": " Background. The authors describe a lateral approach to the cervical spine for the management of spondylotic myeloradiculopathy. The rationale for this approach and surgical technique are discussed, as well as the advantages, disadvantages, complications, and pitfalls based on the author's experience over the last two decades. Methods. Spondylotic myelo-radiculopathy may be treated via a lateral approach to the cervical spine when there is predominant anterior compression associated with either spine straightening or kyphosis, but without vertebral instability. Results. By using a lateral approach, the lateral aspect of the cervical spine and the vertebral artery are easily reached and visualized. Furthermore, the lateral part of the affected intervertebral disc(s), uncovertebral joint(s), vertebral body(ies), and posterior longitudinal ligament can be removed as needed to decompress nerve root(s) and/or the spinal cord. Conclusion. Multilevel cervical oblique corpectomy and/or lateral foraminotomy allow wide decompression of nervous structures, while maintaining optimal stability and physiological motion of the cervical spine.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/98/47/PMC3199080.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3981360", "abstract": "Silver nitrate is commonly recognized for the toxic effects followed by the direct contact with the skin and mucosa known as argyria, but there is surprisingly little information about the adverse effects of silver nitrate after ingestion. Since only a few cases were reported in the literature, the aim of this case is to enrich the little experience existent about the possible effects of silver nitrate ingestion. We describe the case of a 15-year-old female who intentionally ingested 15cc of silver nitrate solution in a suicidal attempt. The clinical picture included an excruciating burning sensation in her throat and nostrils followed by vomiting and poor oral intake. The presence of a whitish membrane on the oral and buccal mucosa without bleeding or erosions was the only remarkable finding at physical examination. Unlike the rest of the cases described in the literature the clinical and endoscopic follow up of the patient was benign and without sequela or signs of oesophageal damage. Even though very uncommon, it is very important for physicians to keep in mind the possible toxic effects and appropriate management of silver nitrate ingestion. The outcome is not always devastating as reported, and a good early approach and follow up is important in the anticipation of sequela.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6c/56/PMC3981360.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3399360", "abstract": " Background. Human immunodeficiency virus associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is a rapidly progressive chronic renal parenchymal disease that occurs in HIV-infected individuals and manifests commonly as proteinuria, which is preceded by microalbuminuria (MA). This clinical entity is defined as a spot urine albumin of 20–200 mg/L. Objectives. To determine the prevalence of microalbuminuria in HIV positive children in UNTH, Enugu and compare it with that of HIV-negative children. Methods. A total of 154 HIV positive children aged 18 months to 14 years and 154 HIV-negative children of corresponding attributes were screened for microalbuminuria, using Micral test II strip which has a sensitivity of 90–99", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/80/dd/PMC3399360.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3767355", "abstract": "Conformational analysis of 18-ring membered macrolactones has been carried out using molecular mechanics calculations and molecular dynamics. A high conformational flexibility of macrolactones was obtained, and an important stereoselectivity was observed for the complexed macrolides. For 18d macrolactone, which was presented by a most favored conformer with 20.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b2/d7/PMC3767355.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1976447", "abstract": "High-throughput 454 DNA sequencing technology allows much faster and more cost-effective sequencing than traditional Sanger sequencing. However, the technology imposes inherent limitations on the number of samples that can be processed in parallel. Here we introduce parallel tagged sequencing (PTS), a simple, inexpensive and flexible barcoding technique that can be used for parallel sequencing any number and type of double-stranded nucleic acid samples. We demonstrate that PTS is particularly powerful for sequencing contiguous DNA fragments such as mtDNA genomes: in theory as many as 250 mammalian mtDNA genomes can be sequenced in a single GS FLX run. PTS dramatically increases the sequencing throughput of samples in parallel and thus fully mobilizes the resources of the 454 technology for targeted sequencing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/79/20/gkm566.PMC1976447.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4354234", "abstract": " The aim of this study was to investigate whether plasma anti-Muellerian hormone (AMH) levels of Holstein-Friesian heifers could be used to predict ovum pick-up (OPU) and embryo production outcomes. Plasma samples and data were collected from 64 heifers, which underwent repeated OPU with subsequent in vitro embryo production followed by embryo flushing after superovulation. AMH levels were significantly positively correlated with the number of follicles aspirated per OPU session (r = 0.45), recovered oocytes per OPU (r =0.43) and in vitro produced embryos per OPU (r = 0.28). No significant correlations between AMH and in vivo produced embryos were ascertained. Our results suggest that correlations between AMH and outcomes of an OPU-IVF program are too low to use AMH as a precise predictive parameter for the success of a particular OPU procedure in Holstein-Friesian heifers. However, AMH can help to identify groups of very good or very poor oocyte donors.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/00/jrd-61-074.PMC4354234.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4898866", "abstract": " Background: Due to the increasing health care costs, the issue of productivity in hospitals must be taken into great consideration in order to provide, preserve and promote public health services. Thus, increasing the level of productivity must become the main aim of any hospital. Objective of this study is to determine the total factor productivity and its components over the period under the study.   Methods: In this cross sectional study, total factor productivity changes of hospitals affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences were measured according to Malmquist index over the period 2009-2014. To estimate total productivity changes using Data Envelopment Analysis method, inputoriented and variable return to scale assumptions were applied and Deap2.1 software was used.   Results: The mean value of total productivity changes was 1.013. It means that during the study period the productivity experienced a 1.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/da/f7/mjiri-30-316.PMC4898866.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4137552", "abstract": " Allium cepa L. is known to possess numerous pharmacological properties. Our aim was to examine the in vitro effects of Allium cepa L. extract (AcE) on Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS and Escherichia coli LPS-stimulated osteoclast precursor cells to determine cell viability to other future cell-based assays. Osteoclast precursor cells (RAW 264.7) were stimulated by Pg LPS (1 μg/mL) and E. coli LPS (1 μg/mL) in the presence or absence of different concentrations of AcE (10–1000 μg/mL) for 5 days at 37°C/5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2b/ef/PMC4137552.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3671104", "abstract": "In this review, we explore the concept of ‘double diabetes’, a combination of type 1 diabetes with features of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. After considering whether double diabetes is a useful concept, we discuss potential mechanisms of increased insulin resistance in type 1 diabetes before examining the extent to which double diabetes might increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We then go on to consider the proposal that weight gain from intensive insulin regimens may be associated with increased CV risk factors in some patients with type 1 diabetes, and explore the complex relationships between weight gain, insulin resistance, glycaemic control and CV outcome. Important comparisons and contrasts between type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are highlighted in terms of hepatic fat, fat partitioning and lipid profile, and how these may differ between type 1 diabetic patients with and without double diabetes. In so doing, we hope this work will stimulate much-needed research in this area and an improvement in clinical practice.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/ee/125_2013_Article_2904.PMC3671104.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2727325", "abstract": "Ferret badger–associated human rabies cases emerged in China in 1994. We used a retrospective epidemiologic survey, virus isolation, laboratory diagnosis, and nucleotide sequencing to document its reemergence in 2002–2008. Whether the cause is spillover from infected dogs or recent host shift and new reservoir establishment requires further investigation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/dd/26/PMC2727325.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3355787", "abstract": "The study of metabolic regulation has traditionally focused on analysis of specific enzymes, emphasizing kinetic properties, and the influence of protein interactions and post-translational modifications. More recently, reverse genetic approaches permit researchers to directly determine the effects of a deficiency or a surplus of a given enzyme on the biochemistry and physiology of a plant. Furthermore, in many model species, gene expression atlases that give important spatial information concerning the quantitative expression level of metabolism-associated genes are being produced. In parallel, “top-down” approaches to understand metabolic regulation have recently been instigated whereby broad genetic diversity is screened for metabolic traits and the genetic basis of this diversity is defined thereafter. In this article we will review recent examples of this latter approach both in the model species Arabidopsis thaliana and the crop species tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). In addition to highlighting examples in which this genetic diversity approach has proven promising, we will discuss the challenges associated with this approach and provide a perspective for its future utility.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8e/e2/PMC3355787.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5056019", "abstract": "Background The incidence of oral cancers varies from one country to another, which can be clarified by the difference in the distribution of the risk factors and the possible etiologies. Tongue is a main segment of oral cavity and malignant lesions of this region accounts for nearly 30", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/83/ijcp-09-04-4467.PMC5056019.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4212628", "abstract": "Although several molecular pathways have been linked to type 2 diabetes (T2D) pathogenesis, it is uncertain which pathway has the most implication on the disease. Changes in the expression of an entire pathway might be more important for disease pathogenesis than changes in the expression of individual genes. To identify the molecular alterations in T2D, DNA microarrays of human pancreatic islets from donors with hyperglycemia (n = 20) and normoglycemia (n = 58) were subjected to Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). About 178 KEGG pathways were investigated for gene expression changes between hyperglycemic donors compared to normoglycemic. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY) pathways are downregulated in hyperglycemic donors, while proteasome and spliceosome pathways are upregulated. The mean centroid of gene expression of T2DM and MODY pathways was shown to be associated positively with insulin secretion and negatively with HbA1c level. To conclude, downregulation of T2DM and MODY pathways is involved in islet function and might be involved in T2D. Also, the study demonstrates that gene expression profiles from pancreatic islets can reveal some of the biological processes related to regulation of glucose hemostats and diabetes pathogenesis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5c/2f/PMC4212628.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3635130", "abstract": "We report an unusual case of a pancreatic fistula communicating with an appendicectomy wound. This occurred following an episode of acute haemorrhagic pancreatitis. The patient was initially admitted with signs and symptoms indicating appendicitis and went to theatre for an open appendicectomy. However, this did not resolve his symptoms and a laparotomy was performed the next day revealing haemorrhagic pancreatitis. He endured a stormy post-operative course, the cause of which was found to be an external pancreatic fistula with discharge of amylase-rich fluid from the Lanz incision. A trial of conservative management failed despite multiple percutaneous drainage procedures and treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics. After a second opinion was sought, it was decided to fit a roux loop anastomosis between the head of the pancreas and the duodenum to divert the fistulous fluid. This procedure was a success and the patient remains well 2 years later.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/85/rjt014.PMC3635130.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5298301", "abstract": "Objectives The objective of this study was to document the burden and treatment patterns associated with invasive fungal infections (IFIs) due to Candida and Aspergillus species in Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. Methods A retrospective chart review study was conducted using data recorded from 2011 to 2012 from hospitals in Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. Patients were included if they had been discharged with a diagnosis of IFI due to Candida or Aspergillus, which was culture proven or suspected based on clinical criteria. Hospital data were abstracted for a random sample of patients to capture demographics, treatment patterns, hospital resource utilization, and clinical outcomes. Descriptive results were reported. Results Five hospitals participated and provided data on 102 patients with IFI (51 from Lebanon and 51 from Saudi Arabia). The mean age of the patients was 55 years, and 55", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/60/85/idr-10-035.PMC5298301.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3560594", "abstract": "Summary Background Hypercalcemia is a common problem in clinical practice and can be related to endocrine disorders or malignant disease, especially in elderly patients. Although rare, other causes can also be responsible. Case Report Granulomatous inflammation of the skin and lymph nodes induced by intravenous or injectable silicone is a rare condition of hypercalcemia that is usually not within the scope of differential diagnosis. Here, we report a 72-year-old woman with symptomatic hypercalcemia related to cosmetic treatment of the neck. Topical applied liquid silicone by means of a focal ultrasound device induced extensive granulomatous inflammation of the skin and local lymph nodes, being the underlying cause for hypercalcemia in this case. Conclusions In rare cases, symptomatic hypercalcemia can be caused by silicone due to a severe granulomatous tissue reaction. This is the first time that a transdermal silicone treatment has been reported to cause severe granulomatous tissue inflammation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1f/78/PMC3560594.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3964496", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE Although patients with type 2 diabetes have double the risk of dementia, potential racial/ethnic differences in dementia risk have not been explored in this population. We evaluated racial/ethnic differences in dementia and potential explanatory factors among older diabetic patients. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We identified 22,171 diabetic patients without preexisting dementia aged ≥60 years (14,546 non-Hispanic whites, 2,484 African Americans, 2,363 Latinos, 2,262 Asians, 516 Native Americans) from the Kaiser Permanente Northern California Diabetes Registry. We abstracted prevalent medical history (1 January 1996 to 31 December 1997) and dementia incidence (1 January 1998 to 31 December 2007) from medical records and calculated age-adjusted incidence densities. We fit Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for age, sex, education, diabetes duration, and markers of clinical control. RESULTS Dementia was diagnosed in 3,796 (17.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/52/8e/1009.PMC3964496.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4371523", "abstract": "Introduction: There are many benefits of multistate collaboratives or networks to states, but at the center is that they allow for the opportunity to learn from other states and experts about the practices and policies states have implemented without the significant time lag of published research. This commentary examines these benefits and illustrates the importance of quality improvement collaborations to decision-making in state Medicaid programs. Background: In 2007, the Medicaid Medical Directors Learning Network (MMDLN) began conducting quality improvement studies using their own state-level administrative data to better understand the major clinical issues facing the Medicaid populations and to work together on policies to improve outcomes. Rationale and Results: The three issues selected by MMDs for quality improvement monitoring to date involved an important national problem – including both morbidity and cost – and were amenable to policy solutions. The studies examined the use of antipsychotic medication in children, hospital admissions and readmissions, and early elective deliveries (i.e., elective deliveries occurring before 39 weeks). Importance and Utility: The multistate clinical quality projects conducted offer a key mechanism for achieving the goal of helping the Medicaid program deliver value-driven, high-quality, cost-effective health care in an efficient manner. These projects also provide the participating states with data to inform policies internally. Conclusions: In order for the quality of health care to improve, the system needs to be structured as a learning health care system; one that is always accessing evidence, implementing a variation of it (i.e., with new data sources or tools such as electronic clinical data), assessing effectiveness, and sharing results for others to repeat the cycle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/30/egems1061.PMC4371523.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5088329", "abstract": "Chagas disease (CD) is a tropical parasitic disease largely underdiagnosed and mostly asymptomatic affecting marginalized rural populations. Argentina regularly reports acute cases of CD, mostly young individuals under 14 years old. There is a void of knowledge of health care seeking behavior in subjects experiencing a CD acute condition. Early treatment of the acute case is crucial to limit subsequent development of disease. The article explores how the health outcome of persons with acute CD may be conditioned by their health care seeking behavior. The study, with a qualitative approach, was carried out in rural areas of Santiago del Estero Province, a high risk endemic region for vector transmission of CD. Narratives of 25 in-depth interviews carried out in 2005 and 2006 are analyzed identifying patterns of health care seeking behavior followed by acute cases. Through the retrospective recall of paths for diagnoses, weaknesses of disease information, knowledge at the household level, and underperformance at the provincial health care system level are detected. The misdiagnoses were a major factor in delaying a health care response. The study results expose lost opportunities for the health care system to effectively record CD acute cases. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e0/5f/PMC5088329.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5276764", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study examined the quality of life of homebound elderly hemiparetic stroke patients with cognitive impairment and the factors affecting their quality of life. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects of the study were 17 home-based elderly hemiparetic stroke patients with cognitive impairment (8 males and 9 females, average age: 76.3 ± 10.5 years old). Their physical and psychological conditions, quality of life and other items were investigated. Nishimura’s Mental State Scale for the Elderly was used for the cognitive impairment assessment. The Functional Independence Measure was used to assess activities of daily living, and the Japanese Quality of Life Inventory for the Elderly with Dementia was used to assess quality of life. [Results] The subjects’ quality of life was affected by their cognitive impairment level and independence of activities of daily living. However, no correlations were observed between the quality of life of the homebound elderly hemiparetic stroke patients with cognitive impairment, age, gender or care-need level. [Conclusion] In order to improve the quality of life of homebound elderly hemiparetic stroke patients with cognitive impairment, assistance helping them to maintain their cognitive abilities and on-going rehabilitation for improving activities of daily living independence are required.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/1a/jpts-28-3376.PMC5276764.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4499085", "abstract": "Background: Liberalization and decentralization of public sector has been triggered in some developing countries and in Iran by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME) that granted autonomy to 54 public hospitals. However, establishment of such a complex organizational reform was rather unsuccessful. We aimed to explore the obstacles and barriers caused such a failure and their mechanisms. Methods: Using a qualitative approach in 2013, we consulted key informants at the autonomous hospitals and their affiliating universities. Data collection was done within two phases: (i) 276 unstructured questionnaires asking respondents of barriers, and (ii) 23 semi-structured interviews from the first phase’s key respondents. The first phase data were analyzed using thematic analysis and the second’s by framework approach based on the frame shaped at the first phase. Results: Nine obstacles were recognized including “autonomous hospitals’ board composition”, “delay in announcing autonomous hospitals’ charges by the MOHME”, “lack of financing by the committed organizations”, “poor follow up for implementation of the reform”, “irregular board meetings”, “lack of an external overseer”, “shortage of full-time physicians”, “lack of management stability”, and “health insurance organizations’ delayed payments”. Conclusion: The MOHME and insurance organizations did not pay the reform expenses. There were some competing motives as well to slow the reform or to shut it down. The stages of policy formulation and implementation were done separately in Iran, so this big organizational reform encountered serious obstacles.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/5f/PMC4499085.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3206498", "abstract": "Cholesterol gallstone disease is highly prevalent in western countries, particularly in women and some specific ethnic groups. The formation of water-insoluble cholesterol crystals is due to a misbalance between the three major lipids present in the bile: cholesterol, bile salts, and phospholipids. Many proteins implicated in biliary lipid secretion in the liver are regulated by several transcription factors, including nuclear receptors LXR and FXR. Human and murine genetic, physiological, pathophysiological, and pharmacological evidence is consistent with the relevance of these nuclear receptors in gallstone formation. In addition, there is emerging data that also suggests a role for estrogen receptor ESR1 in abnormal cholesterol metabolism leading to gallstone disease. A better comprehension of the role of nuclear receptor function in gallstone formation may help to design new and more effective therapeutic strategies for this highly prevalent disease condition.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bd/e6/PMC3206498.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4217058", "abstract": "Objective C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) are often utilized to evaluate for postoperative infection. Abnormal values may be detected after surgery even in case of non-infection because of muscle injury, transfusion, which disturbed prompt perioperative management. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the perioperative CRP, ESR, and white blood cell (WBC) counts after spine surgery, which was proved to be non-infection. Methods Twenty patients of lumbar open discectomy (LOD) and 20 patients of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) were enrolled in this study. Preoperative and postoperative prophylactic antibiotics were administered routinely for 7 days. Blood samples were obtained one day before surgery and postoperative day (POD) 1, POD3, and POD7. Using repeated measures ANOVA, changes in effect measures over time and between groups over time were assessed. All data analysis was conducted using SAS v.9.1. Results Changes in CRP, within treatment groups over time and between treatment groups over time were both statistically significant F(3,120)=5.05, p=0.003 and F(1,39)=7.46, p=0.01, respectively. Most dramatic changes were decreases in the LOD group on POD3 and POD7. Changes in ESR, within treatment groups over time and between treatment groups over time were also found to be statistically significant, F(3,120)=6.67, p=0.0003 and F(1,39)=3.99, p=0.01, respectively. Changes in WBC values also were be statistically significant within groups over time, F(3,120)=40.52, p<0.001, however, no significant difference was found in between groups WBC levels over time, F(1,39)=0.02, p=0.89. Conclusion We found that, dramatic decrease of CRP was detected on POD3 and POD7 in LOD group of non-infection and dramatic increase of ESR on POD3 and POD7 in PLIF group of non-infection. We also assumed that CRP would be more effective and sensitive parameter especially in LOD than PLIF for early detection of infectious complications. Awareness of the typical pattern of CRP, ESR, and WBC may help to evaluate the early postoperative course.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8f/bc/jkns-56-218.PMC4217058.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4807904", "abstract": "Objective: Macroglossia is a well-known feature of amyloidosis; however, tongue atrophy and fasciculations are rarely seen and can lead to the misdiagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: We identified 2 unrelated patients with atypical features of tongue atrophy and fasciculations in the setting of a severe neuropathy. Results: Both patients were confirmed to have transthyretin-related familial amyloid polyneuropathy (TTR-FAP) by genetic testing. Conclusions: TTR-FAP should be considered as a possible mimicker of ALS when tongue atrophy and fasciculations are seen in the setting of a severely progressive polyneuropathy. Other atypical mimickers of ALS include polyglucosan body disease, hexosaminidase A deficiency, multisystem proteinopathy, and Allgrove syndrome.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/9f/NG2015000349.PMC4807904.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3268233", "abstract": " Objective. The goal of this pilot study was to develop and field-test questions for use as a poverty case-finding tool to assist primary care providers in identifying poverty in clinical practice. Methods. 156 questionnaires were completed by a convenience sample of urban and rural primary care patients presenting to four family practices in British Columbia, Canada. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses compared questionnaire responses with low-income cut-off (LICO) levels calculated for each respondent. Results. 35", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/4a/PMC3268233.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3730072", "abstract": "The authors report a caruncular abscess caused by actinomycosis. A 47-year-old woman was admitted with persistent purulent discharge from the caruncle of the left eye for a duration of six months. Excisional drainage was performed, and 'sulfur granules' were observed, consistent with actinomyces infection. Intraoperative lacrimal probing and irrigation were performed to confirm that the abscess and canaliculus were not connected. Oral and topical antibiotics were administered postoperatively; the lesion resolved with no evidence of recurrence, and the symptom improved.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/5c/kjo-27-288.PMC3730072.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4842251", "abstract": "Background: PCR has been used for confirmation of leishmaniasis in epidemiological studies, but complexity of DNA extraction and PCR approach has confined its routine use in developing countries. Objectives: In this study, recent epidemiological situation of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in two hyper-endemic metropolises of Shiraz and Isfahan in Iran was studied using DNA extraction by commercial FTA cards and kinetoplastid DNA (kDNA)-PCR amplification for detection/identification of Leishmania directly from stained skin scraping imprints. Patients and Methods: Fifty four and 30 samples were collected from clinically diagnosed CL patients referred to clinical laboratories of leishmaniasis control centers in Isfahan and Shiraz cities, respectively. The samples were examined by direct microscopy and then scrapings of the stained smears were applied to FTA cards and used directly as DNA source in a nested-PCR to amplify kDNA to detect and identify Leishmania species. Results: Fifty four of 84 (64.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/df/29/jjm-09-02-32885.PMC4842251.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4136954", "abstract": "Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) disproportionately affects older adults. However, direct comparison of clinical features, medical therapy, and outcomes in AF patients aged 65–74 and ≥75 years is rare. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the differences in clinical characteristics and prognosis in these two age-groups of geriatric patients with AF. Materials and methods A total of 1,336 individuals aged ≥65 years from a Chinese AF registry were assessed in the present study: 570 were in the 65- to 74-year group, and 766 were in the ≥75-year group. Multivariable Cox hazards regression was performed to analyze the major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) between groups. Results In our population, the older group were more likely to have coronary artery disease, hypertension, previous stroke, cognitive disorder, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and the 65- to 74-year group were more likely to have valvular heart disease, left ventricular systolic dysfunction, or sleep apnea. The older patients had 1.2-fold higher mean CHADS2 (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years, diabetes, stroke) scores, but less probability of being prescribed drugs. Compared with those aged 65–74 years, the older group had a higher risk of death (hazard ratio 2.881, 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/a4/cia-9-1335.PMC4136954.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4736384", "abstract": "The aim of this paper is to investigate whether urosepsis is related to irrigation pressure of ureteroscopy (URS) and evaluate the prognostic value of adrenomedullin (ADM) and atrial and brain natriuretic peptides (ANP and BNP) in URS-induced uroseptic patients. From July 2008 to October 2013, we enrolled 332 patients with untreated unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). The UUO group included three subgroups of, respectively, 118, 132, and 82 patients who underwent URS under intermittent stable irrigation pressure of, respectively, 80, 120, and 160 mmHg. The plasma concentrations of ADM, ANP, and BNP were measured in all subjects. URS was performed for all UUO patients; the values of the three peptides were measured again after URS. Irrigation pressure and stone size were independent risk factors of urosepsis. After URS, the plasma concentrations of ADM, ANP, and BNP were significantly higher in uroseptic patients. Moreover, the concentrations were significantly higher depending on the disease severity. Plasma concentrations of the three peptides were correlated with plasma ET concentration in the uroseptic patients. The areas under receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of ADM, ANP, and BNP for predicting urosepsis were 0.811, 0.728, and 0.764, respectively. In conclusion, ADM, along with ANP and BNP, is valuable for prognosis in urosepsis secondary to URS which is associated with irrigation pressure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e2/80/PMC4736384.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3505932", "abstract": "ATL is a distinct peripheral T-lymphocytic malignancy associated with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-1). The diversity in clinical features and prognosis of patients with this disease has led to its subtype-classification into four categories, acute, lymphoma, chronic, and smoldering types, defined by organ involvement, and LDH and calcium values. In case of acute, lymphoma, or unfavorable chronic subtypes (aggressive ATL), intensive chemotherapy like the LSG15 regimen (VCAP-AMP-VECP) is usually recommended if outside of clinical trials, based on the results of a phase 3 trial. In case of favorable chronic or smoldering ATL (indolent ATL), watchful waiting until disease progression has been recommended, although the long-term prognosis was inferior to those of, for instance, chronic lymphoid leukemia. Retrospective analysis suggested that the combination of interferon alpha and zidovudine was apparently promising for the treatment of ATL, especially for types with leukemic manifestation. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is also promising for the treatment of aggressive ATL possibly reflecting graft versus ATL effect. Several new agent trials for ATL are ongoing and in preparation, including a defucosylated humanized anti-CC chemokine receptor 4 monoclonal antibody, IL2-fused with diphtheria toxin, histone deacetylase inhibitors, a purine nucleoside phosphorylase inhibitor, a proteasome inhibitor, and lenalidomide.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f7/15/PMC3505932.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4216219", "abstract": "A series of N2,N4-disubstituted quinazoline-2,4-diamines has been synthesized and tested against Leishmania donovani and L. amazonensis intracellular amastigotes. A structure–activity and structure–property relationship study was conducted in part using the Topliss operational scheme to identify new lead compounds. This study led to the identification of quinazolines with EC50 values in the single digit micromolar or high nanomolar range in addition to favorable physicochemical properties. Quinazoline 23 also displayed efficacy in a murine model of visceral leishmaniasis, reducing liver parasitemia by 37", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/a5/PMC4216219.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3872864", "abstract": "Background: Nursing burnout is the main characteristic of job stress that is a delayed reaction to chronic stressful situations in the workplace which could affect nurses who do not have sufficient emotional energy to cope and communicate with different types of patients. There is also sometimes this belief that they do not have the required capabilities for their jobs. The aim of this study was the evaluation of burnout among nurses working in medical and educational centers in Shahrekord. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study was performed on 340 nurses working in medical and educational centers in Shahrekord in 2009. Samples were selected using proportionate random sampling. Demographic information and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were filled in for all nurses. Results: Burnout was considerable among nurses. The results showed that 34.6, 28.8, and 95.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/db/06/IJNMR-18-294.PMC3872864.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4761595", "abstract": "Antegrade transmalleolar drilling method is one of the options for the treatment of osteochondral lesion of talus (OLT). We present five patients who underwent tibial drilling for treatment of OLT and later developed distal tibial cystic formation induced by cartilage opening or heat necrosis during drilling. Antegrade transmalleolar drilling can be a possible option for the treatment of OLT if the lesion is not easily reachable; however, other viable treatment should be considered due to its possibility of distal tibial pathologic change.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9f/d7/cios-8-119.PMC4761595.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3810198", "abstract": "Dermatological procedures which are considered as being minimally invasive, such as those using injectable fillers based on hyaluronic acid, revolutionized aging treatment, especially of the face. By promoting the replacement of lost volume and attenuating grooves and wrinkles, they ensure a more youthful appearance and certain functional recovery of facial aesthetics. The authors review some of the main physicochemical characteristics of these dermal fillers, highlighting the product line Stylage®, the manufacture of which includes mannitol.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/86/0a/ccid-6-257.PMC3810198.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4556876", "abstract": "Iron deficiency constitutes a major public health problem in Morocco, mainly among women and children. The aim of our paper is to assess the efficacy of consumption of multiple micronutrients (MMN) fortified milk on iron status of Moroccan schoolchildren living in rural region. Children (N = 195), aged 7 to 9 y, were recruited from schools and divided into two groups: the nonfortified group (NFG) received daily a nonfortified Ultra-High-Temperature (UHT) milk and the fortified group received (FG) daily UHT milk fortified with multiple micronutrients including iron sulfate. Blood samples were collected at baseline (T0) and after 9 months (T9). Hemoglobin (Hb) was measured in situ by Hemocue device; ferritin and C Reactive Protein were assessed in serum using ELISA and nephelometry techniques, respectively. Results were considered significant when the p value was <0.05. At T9 FG showed a reduction of iron deficiency from 50.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/26/7e/PMC4556876.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4977814", "abstract": "Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease characterized by a triad of progressive motor dysfunction, cognitive decline and psychiatric disturbances. The hallmark of HD is the distinctive choreiform movement disorder that typically has a subtle, insidious onset in the fourth to fifth decade of life and gradually worsens over 10 to 20 years until death. Notably, two-thirds of HD patients present with chorea and one third with mental changes. The prevalence of psychiatric symptoms is significantly higher than in the general population, and is estimated to be around 66–73", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c7/92/cpn-14-302.PMC4977814.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3205785", "abstract": "Hyperkalemia affects the myocardial tissue producing electrocardiographic abnormalities, such as prolongation of the P-R interval, tall peaked T waves, a reduction in the amplitude and an increase in the duration of P wave, and atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, including variable degree heart blocks. Elderly patients are particularly predisposed to developing hyperkalemia and the associated abnormalities due to an age-related reduction in glomerular filtration rate and pre-existing medical problems. Therefore, the impact of aging on potassium homeostasis must be taken into consideration, and preventive measures, such as early recognition of possible hyperkalemia in the geriatric population treated with certain medications or supplements must be investigated. The threshold for cardiac arrhythmias in the elderly can be lower than the general population. We report 3 unusual cases of mild hyperkalemia in elderly patients presenting with hypotension, syncope and variable degree heart blocks which resolved spontaneously with the correction of hyperkalemia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ae/8f/PMC3205785.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5086466", "abstract": "Objective There are also few studies demonstrating the relationship between ossification of nuchal ligament (ONL) and ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL). We compared the prevalence, location, and type of OPLL between patients with ONL and matched patients without ONL.We also compared the bone mineral densities (BMDs) between the 2 groups. Methods total of 124 cervical ONL patients were enrolled in this study. The control group of 124 patients was matched with 124 patients with ONL by age and sex on a 1:1 basis to minimize confounding factors. We reviewed the prevalence, location, and type of OPLL in both groups. Results The prevalence of OPLL was almost 2.5 times greater in patients with ONL than those without ONL. The mean value of BMD in patients with ONL was greater at the lumbar spine (L1-L4) than in patients without ONL. The mean T score of the lumbar spine was 0.25±1.68 in the patients with ONL and -0.73±1.64 in the patients without ONL. Conclusion The prevalence of OPLL in patients with ONL was significantly higher than in patients without ONL. Because ONL is innocuous and may be seen more readily than OPLL on simple cervical radiographs, clinicians should consider the possibility of coexisting OPLL when ONL, especially extensive ONL, is detected in patients with neck pain, radiculopathy, or myelopathy, to facilitate proper treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b5/87/kjs-13-139.PMC5086466.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3764962", "abstract": "As the literature on afferent loop obstruction (ALO) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is very limited, standardized rules for its management do not exist. Herein, we report the case of a 65-year-old male patient with chronic ALO who had undergone PD with single Roux-en-Y limb reconstruction and adjuvant chemoradiation therapy for pancreatic head adenocarcinoma 2 years earlier. The patient was brought to the operating room with the diagnosis of radiation enteritis of the afferent loop with segmental involvement and concurrent hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) and pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) stricture. Complete mobilization of the afferent loop, removal of the affected segment and reconstruction were performed. Reconstruction of the afferent loop was a one-way option for the surgeons because the Roux-en-Y reconstruction limited endoscopic access to the afferent loop, and the segmental radiation injury of the afferent loop ruled out bypass surgery. However, mobilization of the affected segment through a field of dense adhesions and revision of the HJ and PJ were technically demanding.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/e7/cro-0006-0424.PMC3764962.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4913608", "abstract": "Development of effective and safe treatments for companion animals with cancer requires the collaboration of numerous animal health professionals and the full engagement of animal owners. Establishing ‘Best Practice Recommendations’ for clinical trials in veterinary oncology represents an important step toward meeting the goal of rigorous clinical trial design and conduct that is required to establish valid evidence. Likewise, optimizing patient welfare and owner education and advocacy is crucial to meet the unique ethical obligations to both owners and animals enrolled in these clinical trials and to ensure trust in the team conducting the research. To date, ‘Best Practice Recommendations’ for clinical trial conduct have not been reported for veterinary oncology. This document summarizes the consensus of a workshop held in November, 2014 to identify relevant ethical principles and to ensure responsible conduct of clinical research in companion animals with cancer. It is intended as a working document that will be updated as advances in science and ethical considerations require. To the extent possible, existing guidelines for the conduct and oversight of clinical trials in humans have been adapted for veterinary trials to avoid duplicative effort and to facilitate integration of clinical trials such that translational research with benefits for both companion animals and humans are encouraged.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b9/f9/JVIM-30-527.PMC4913608.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5012247", "abstract": "A 70-year-old man presented with complaints of rapid cognitive decline and new onset leukopenia. The patient had a 17-year history of refractory seizures. Detailed review of symptoms and investigations revealed the patient met American College of Rheumatology (ACR) diagnostic criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The patient had high titer ANA with a strongly positive dsDNA. Immunosuppressive therapy with hydroxychloroquine and mycophenolate mofetil led to significant improvement in cognition and seizures. Neuropsychiatric SLE should be considered a potential differential diagnosis for patients presenting with seizures or cognitive decline. Moreover, neuropsychiatric manifestations especially seizures are an early event in the disease course of SLE. Hence, we believe that early diagnosis of SLE by neuropsychiatric manifestations will not only lead to better control of CNS symptoms but early immunosuppressive therapy could control the progression of the underlying autoimmune disease.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a7/64/jocmr-08-757.PMC5012247.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4437352", "abstract": "Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is one of the most common motor neurodegenerative disorders, primarily affecting upper and lower motor neurons in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord, resulting in paralysis due to muscle weakness and atrophy. The majority of patients die within 3–5 years of symptom onset as a consequence of respiratory failure. Due to relatively fast progression of the disease, early diagnosis is essential. Metabolomics offer a unique opportunity to understand the spatiotemporal metabolic crosstalks through the assessment of body fluids and tissue. So far, one of the most challenging issues related to ALS is to understand the variation of metabolites in body fluids and CNS with the progression of disease. In this paper we will review the changes in metabolic profile in response to disease progression condition and also see the therapeutic implication of various drugs in ALS patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/54/7b/PMC4437352.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2948130", "abstract": "We report a rare case of congenital absence of the L5-S1 facet joint, which was associated with a conjoined nerve root. Combination of these two anomalies has been quite rarely reported in the literature. A 39-year-old man presented with acute low back pain and right leg radiating pain. Muscle weakness and sensory disturbance of the right leg were also apparent in the region innervated by L5 and S1 nerve roots. Preoperative multidetector three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) showed complete absence of the right S1 superior articular process. Magnetic resonance (MR) images showed lumbar disc herniation at right L5-S1 level that migrated cranially. Intraoperative findings revealed that the right L5 nerve root and S1 nerve root were conjoined, and the conjoined nerve root was compressed by L5-S1 disc herniation, which led to impairment of the conjoined nerve root by a single-level lumbar disc herniation. After removal of the disc herniation, his right leg pain immediately subsided, however muscle weakness and sensory disturbance persisted. Surgeons should be aware of this nerve root anomaly when examining a patient who shows an unusual clinical presentation and/or congenital osseous anomaly.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/78/10195_2010_Article_100.PMC2948130.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3490094", "abstract": "Purpose We aimed to compare the cystatin C-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the serum creatinine-based eGFR and to investigate the clinical roles of the cystatin C-based eGFR in assessing the follow-up renal function of kidney donors. Materials and Methods We enrolled 121 healthy kidney donors who underwent live donor nephrectomy between October 2009 and December 2010 in a prospective manner. Serum creatinine and cystatin C were measured preoperatively and were followed after the surgery (1st, 4th, and 7th postoperative day and 1st, 3rd, 6th, and 12th postoperative month). We also compared the sensitivity and specificity of each eGFR method for predicting the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) after donor nephrectomy. Results For those who had a Modification of Diet in Renal Disease postoperative day 4 eGFR of less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2, the probability of developing CKD was 89.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2b/b6/kju-53-721.PMC3490094.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4700684", "abstract": "Background: Clinical competency is one of the most important requirements in nursing profession, based on which nurses are assessed. To obtain an effective and improved form of clinical competency, several factors are observed and monitored by the health educational systems. Among these observed factors, spiritual intelligence is considered as one of the most significant factors in nurses’ success and efficacy. In this study, it is aimed to determine the spiritual intelligence status and its relationship with clinical competency. Materials and Methods: The descriptive–correlational research was carried out on 250 nurses in Mashhad educational hospitals, selected by multi-stage sampling. Demographic, clinical competency, and spiritual intelligence questionnaires were used for data collection and 212 questionnaires were analyzed. Results: About 53.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/68/57/IJNMR-20-665.PMC4700684.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1920589", "abstract": "A LabVIEW-based self-constructed chemical virtual instrument (VI) has been developed for determining temperatures and pressures. It can be put together easily and quickly by selecting hardware modules, such as the PCI-DAQ card or serial port method, different kinds of sensors, signal-conditioning circuits or finished chemical instruments, and software modules such as data acquisition, saving, proceeding. The VI system provides individual and extremely flexible solutions for automatic measurements in physical chemistry research.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a0/60/PMC1920589.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2794345", "abstract": "Together with biliary drainage, which is an appropriate procedure for unresectable biliary cancer, biliary stent placement is used to improve symptoms associated with jaundice. Owing to investigations comparing percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD), surgical drainage, and endoscopic drainage, many types of stents are now available that can be placed endoscopically. The stents used are classified roughly as plastic stents and metal stents. Compared with plastic stents, metal stents are of large diameter, and have long-term patency (although they are expensive). For this reason, the use of metal stents is preferred for patients who are expected to survive for more than 6 months, whereas for patients who are likely to survive for less than 6 months, the use of plastic stents is not considered to be improper. Obstruction in a metal stent is caused by a tumor that grows within the stent through the mesh interstices. To overcome such problems, a covered metal stent was developed, and these stents are now used in patients with malignant distal biliary obstruction. However, this type of stent has been reported to have several shortcomings, such as being associated with the development of acute cholecystitis and stent migration. In spite of these shortcomings, evidence is expected to demonstrate its superiority over other types of stent.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/20/1b/PMC2794345.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4662971", "abstract": " Objectives. The study was aimed at providing a psychosocial profile for Iranian liver transplant candidates referred to an established liver transplantation program. Material and Methods. Patients assessed for liver transplant candidacy in Imam Khomeini Hospital (Tehran, Iran) between March 2013 and September 2014 were included. The following battery of tests were administered: Psychosocial Assessment of Candidates for Transplant (PACT), the Short-Form health survey (SF-36), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results. Psychosocial assessment in 205 liver transplant candidates revealed significant impairments in several SF-36 domains; social functioning was the least and physical functioning was the most impaired domains. The prevalence of cases with probable anxiety and depressive disorders, according to HADS, was 13.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ee/13/PMC4662971.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3443553", "abstract": "The identification of barriers to physical activity and exercise has been used for many decades to explain exercise behavior in older adults. Typically health concerns are the number one barrier to participation. Data from CCHS-HA dataset (N = 20, 875) were used to generate a sample of Canadians, 60+ years, who did not identify a health condition limitation, illness, or injury as a barrier to participation in physical activity (n = 4,900) making this dataset unique in terms of the study of barriers to participation. While the vast majority of older adults participated in physical activity, 9.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2e/39/PMC3443553.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5049615", "abstract": "Background and purpose Patients with symptomatic internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion constitute a small proportion of stroke/transient ischaemic attack patients who are at increased risk of early stroke recurrence and poor outcome. The optimal medical treatment for patients with symptomatic ICA occlusion who are ineligible for thrombolysis or thrombectomy is unknown. Methods Consecutive patients presenting at a single center with newly diagnosed symptomatic ICA occlusion (not involving the circle of Willis) were retrospectively reviewed. Those treated with intravenous thrombolysis or intra‐arterial thrombolysis/thrombectomy were excluded. Patients were divided into two groups based on whether they experienced recurrent in‐hospital stroke. Results The selected study population (n = 33) represented a small (20.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d0/8d/ENE-23-127.PMC5049615.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4713823", "abstract": "[Purpose] We report the case of a breast cancer patient with superficial thrombophlebitis treated with low-level laser therapy. [Case] The patient was a 66-year-old women who developed superficial thrombophlebitis in the left upper limb after chemotherapy. She was administered 6 sessions of low-level laser therapy. [Result] Her pain score decreased by 8 points. Her scores on the Patient and Observer scar Assessment Scale decreased by 18 points for the observer portion and by 26 points for the patient portion. [Conclusion] Low-level laser therapy is effective for the reduction of pain and the size of scar tissue in patients with superficial thrombophlebitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/96/jpts-27-3937.PMC4713823.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4779811", "abstract": "The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) TightRope RT (TR) was recently introduced as a novel cortical suspension device for ACL reconstruction. It has an adjustable graft loop that gives the surgeon some advantages during ACL reconstruction. We report three patients who required removal of the TR after an outside-in anatomical ACL reconstruction because of lateral knee pain. We assumed that the knee pain was associated with friction between the TR button of the posterolateral bundle and iliotibial band (ITB). Placing the TR button close to the lateral epicondyle and tissue interposition between the TR button and lateral femoral cortex may be potential risk factors for ITB irritation. Therefore, we recommend not placing the TR button close to the top of the lateral epicondyle and reducing the tissue interposition between the TR button and lateral femoral cortex as much as possible.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/06/70/ksrr-28-83.PMC4779811.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5088556", "abstract": "A 42-year-old woman presented with an intermittent fever and chest and back pain, and an abnormal chest shadow was detected. She was diagnosed with paragonimiasis caused by Paragonimus westermani. Praziquantel therapy improved the abnormal chest shadow, but did not relieve her symptoms. She was also diagnosed with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), and colchicine therapy resolved her symptoms. She subsequently developed arthralgia and morning stiffness in her hands. We also diagnosed the patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and corticosteroid and salazosulfapyridine therapy improved her symptoms. The existence of paragonimiasis complicated the diagnosis of FMF. The coexistence of FMF and RA is very rare, but does exist. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ac/6d/1349-7235-55-2889.PMC5088556.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4762339", "abstract": "Aims: The aim of the study was to evaluate the stress distribution pattern in the implant and the surrounding bone for a passive and a friction fit implant abutment interface and to analyze the influence of occlusal table dimension on the stress generated. Materials and Methods: CAD models of two different types of implant abutment connections, the passive fit or the slip-fit represented by the Nobel Replace Tri-lobe connection and the friction fit or active fit represented by the Nobel active conical connection were made. The stress distribution pattern was studied at different occlusal dimension. Six models were constructed in PRO-ENGINEER 05 of the two implant abutment connection for three different occlusal dimensions each. The implant and abutment complex was placed in cortical and cancellous bone modeled using a computed tomography scan. This complex was subjected to a force of 100 N in the axial and oblique direction. The amount of stress and the pattern of stress generated were recorded on a color scale using ANSYS 13 software. Results: The results showed that overall maximum Von Misses stress on the bone is significantly less for friction fit than the passive fit in any loading conditions stresses on the implant were significantly higher for the friction fit than the passive fit. The narrow occlusal table models generated the least amount of stress on the implant abutment interface. Conclusion: It can thus be concluded that the conical connection distributes more stress to the implant body and dissipates less stress to the surrounding bone. A narrow occlusal table considerably reduces the occlusal overload.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/b8/JIPS-15-229.PMC4762339.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3661815", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE The creatinine excretion rate (CER) is inversely associated with mortality in the general and renal transplant population. The CER is a marker for muscle mass. It is unknown whether the CER is associated with outcome in diabetes. We therefore investigated whether the CER is a determinant of all-cause mortality in diabetic patients. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We used data from the combined Reduction of Endpoints in Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus with the Angiotensin II Antagonist Losartan (RENAAL) and Irbesartan Diabetic Nephropathy Trial (IDNT) studies. A total of 1,872 patients (58", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/b5/1489.PMC3661815.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1933176", "abstract": "We present the second version of Melina, a web-based tool for promoter analysis. Melina II shows potential DNA motifs in promoter regions with a combination of several available programs, Consensus, MEME, Gibbs sampler, MDscan and Weeder, as well as several parameter settings. It allows running a maximum of four programs simultaneously, and comparing their results with graphical representations. In addition, users can build a weight matrix from a predicted motif and apply it to upstream sequences of several typical genomes (human, mouse, S. cerevisiae, E. coli, B. subtilis or A. thaliana) or to public motif databases (JASPAR or DBTBS) in order to find similar motifs. Melina II is a client/server system developed by using Adobe (Macromedia) Flash and is accessible over the web at http://melina.hgc.jp.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9d/4e/gkm362.PMC1933176.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3258303", "abstract": "Generalized vitiligo (GV) is a complex disease in which patchy depigmentation results from autoimmune loss of melanocytes from affected regions. Genetic analyses of GV span six decades, with the goal of understanding biological mechanisms and elucidating pathways that underlie the disease. The earliest studies attempted to describe the mode of inheritance and genetic epidemiology. Early genetic association studies of biological candidate genes resulted in some successes, principally HLA and PTPN22, but in hindsight many such reports now seem to be false-positives. Later genomewide linkage studies of multiplex GV families identified NLRP1 and XBP1, which appear to be valid GV susceptibility genes that control key aspects of immune regulation. Recently, the application of genomewide association studies to analysis of GV has produced a rich yield of validated GV susceptibility genes that encode components of biological pathways reaching from immune cells to the melanocyte. These genes and pathways provide insights into underlying pathogenetic mechanisms and potential triggers of GV, establish relationships to other autoimmune diseases, and may provide clues to potential new approaches to GV treatment and perhaps even prevention. These results thus validate the hopes and efforts of the early investigators who first attempted to comprehend the genetic basis of vitiligo.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/87/9c/PMC3258303.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4987312", "abstract": "Background The aim of this study was to determine if there were significant differences in glenohumeral joint morphology between North American and East Asian populations that may influence sizing and selection of shoulder arthroplasty systems. Methods Computed tomography reconstructions of 92 North American and 58 East Asian patients were used to perform 3-dimensional measurements. The proximal humeral position was normalized in all patients by aligning it with the scapular plane utilizing anatomic landmarks. Measurements were performed on the humerus and scapula and included coronal and axial humeral head radius, humeral neck shaft and articular arc angles, glenoid height and width, and critical shoulder angle. Glenohumeral relationships were also measured and included lateral distance to the greater tuberosity and acromion, abduction lever arm, and acromial index. Parametric and nonparametric statistical analyses were used to compare population metrics. Results East Asian glenohumeral measurements were significantly smaller for all linear metrics (p < 0.05), with the exception of acromial length, which was greater than in the North American cohort (p < 0.001). The increase in acromial length affected all measurements involving the acromion including abduction lever arms. No difference was found between the neck shaft and articular angular measurements. Conclusions The East Asian population exhibited smaller shoulder morphometrics than their North American cohort, with the exception of an extended acromial overhang. The morphologic data can provide some additional factors to consider when choosing an optimal shoulder implant for the East Asian population, in addition to creating future designs that may better accommodate this population.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ed/95/cios-8-280.PMC4987312.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4019260", "abstract": "Abstract Aims/Introduction:  β‐cell function was evaluated by homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function (HOMA‐B) index, proinsulin:insulin and proinsulin:C‐peptide ratios in adult, Japanese type 2 diabetes patients receiving liraglutide. Materials and Methods:  Data from two randomized, controlled clinical trials (A and B) including 664 Japanese type 2 diabetes patients (mean values: glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] 8.61–9.32", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5b/d8/PMC4019260.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3447850", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE Surgical trauma impairs intraoperative insulin sensitivity and is associated with postoperative adverse events. Recently, preprocedural statin therapy is recommended for patients with coronary artery disease. However, statin therapy is reported to increase insulin resistance and the risk of new-onset diabetes. Thus, we investigated the association between preoperative statin therapy and intraoperative insulin sensitivity in nondiabetic, dyslipidemic patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In this prospective, nonrandomized trial, patients taking lipophilic statins were assigned to the statin group and hypercholesterolemic patients not receiving any statins were allocated to the control group. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by the hyperinsulinemic-normoglycemic clamp technique during surgery. The mean, SD of blood glucose, and the coefficient of variation (CV) after surgery were calculated for each patient. The association between statin use and intraoperative insulin sensitivity was tested by multiple regression analysis. RESULTS We studied 120 patients. In both groups, insulin sensitivity gradually decreased during surgery with values being on average ∼20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/f2/2095.PMC3447850.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3981289", "abstract": "This study evaluated the ability of the slipping slipper sign (defined as unknowingly losing a slipper while walking) to identify diabetic neuropathy in Jamaican patients. A single question was used to ascertain the presence of the slipping slipper sign (SSS) among 69 patients attending a diabetes clinic. Nurses assessed pain, vibration and pressure perception among the same patients in order to detect diabetic neuropathy. The sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value for the SSS were calculated. Eight participants (men=5, women=3) reported positive SSS. The SSS had a sensitivity of 28.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/da/6c/PMC3981289.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4667597", "abstract": "Acral melanoma is the most frequent subtype in the Asian and Mexican mestizo populations. Dermoscopy is a noninvasive diagnostic technique that helps the differential diagnosis of pigmented skin lesions on acral volar skin. We, herein, present a case of acral congenital melanocytic nevus with a parallel ridge dermoscopic pattern. Since the parallel ridge pattern in a melanocytic lesion of the acral skin is classically ascribed to melanoma, the present case can be definitely labeled as “atypical” and worth of being elucidated in its histopathological correlates.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/56/84/PMC4667597.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4027954", "abstract": "Cr(VI) genotoxicity is caused by products of its reductive metabolism inside the cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Cr(V,IV) intermediates are potential sources of oxidative damage by Cr(VI). Here, we investigated seven fluorescent probes for the detection of ROS and non-ROS oxidants in Cr(VI) reactions with its main reducers. We found that Cr(V)-skipping metabolism of Cr(VI) by ascorbate in vitro gave no responses with all tested dyes, indicating nonreactivity of Cr(IV) and absence of ROS. Cr(VI) reduction with glutathione (GSH) or Cys strongly enhanced the fluorescence of dichlorofluorescein (DCF) and dihydrorhodamine 123 (DHR123) but produced minimal fluorescence with dihydroethidium and no increases with aminophenylfluorescein and CellRox Green, Orange, and Red. Several tests showed that Cr(VI)-thiol reactions lacked ROS and that Cr(V) caused oxidation of DCF and DHR123. DCF reacted only with free Cr(V), whereas DHR123 detected both the free Cr(V) and Cr(V)-GSH complex. We estimated that Cr(VI)-GSH reactions generated approximately 75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d1/c4/PMC4027954.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3988610", "abstract": "Oropharyngeal teratomas are extremely rare congenital tumors and have an incidence rate of one in 35,000-200,000 newborn babies/neonates. Oropharyngeal teratomas may cause life threatening airway obstruction to a newborn. Early diagnosis with ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is essential to plan management. Here, we present a rare case of oropharyngeal true teratoma diagnosed with MRI antenatally in a fetus at 34 weeks of gestation in a 25-year-old female who was being evaluated for polyhydraminos. We found MRI to be more helpful for antenatal diagnosis, counseling, and management than ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT).", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/77/f9/JCIS-4-15.PMC3988610.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3100786", "abstract": "Dysregulation of the cell cycle is the underlying mechanism of neoplasia. Healthy cells prevent propagation of DNA mutations to progeny by activation of cellular checkpoints, which allows time for DNA repair. On the other hand, activation of the DNA damage response is also the general principle of many current cancer treatments. Thus, recent advances in understanding how checkpoints in the cell cycle work at the molecular level open the door to new approaches to antitumor therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bb/8b/biolrep-03-10.PMC3100786.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4755451", "abstract": "IN BRIEF Far from a simple absence of wakefulness, sleep is an active, regulated, and metabolically distinct state, essential for health and well-being. In this article, the authors review the fundamental anatomy and physiology of sleep and its regulation, with an eye toward interactions between sleep and metabolism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/59/83/5.PMC4755451.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4541056", "abstract": "Pseudoaneurysm with arteriovenous fistula is a rare complication of arthroscopy, and can be diagnosed by ultrasonography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or angiography. This condition can be treated with open surgical repair or endovascular repair. We report our experience with the open surgical repair of a pseudoaneurysm with an arteriovenous fistula in a young male patient who underwent arthroscopy five months previously.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7f/7c/kjtcv-48-302.PMC4541056.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4515283", "abstract": " Objective. To investigate whether patients on long-term antisecretory medication need to continue treatment to control symptoms. Methods. A double-blinded randomised placebo-controlled trial in general practices in Denmark. Patients aged 18–90 who were treated with antisecretory drugs on a long-term basis were randomized to esomeprazole 40 mg or identical placebo. Outcome measures were time to discontinuation with trial medication due to failed symptom control analysed as survival data. The proportion of patients stopping trial medication during the one-year follow-up was estimated. Results. A total of 171 patients were included with a median prior duration of antisecretory treatment of four years (range: 0.5 to 14.6 years). 86 patients received esomeprazole 40 mg and 85 patients received placebo. At 12 months, statistically significantly more patients in the placebo group had discontinued (73", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3a/ec/PMC4515283.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5312512", "abstract": "Setaria tundra is a mosquito-borne filarial nematode of cervids in Europe. It has recently been associated with an emerging epidemic disease causing severe morbidity and mortality in reindeer and moose in Finland. Here, we present the first report of S. tundra in six roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) collected between October 2010 and March 2014 in Denmark. The deer originated from various localities across the country: the eastern part of the Jutland peninsular and four locations on the island Zealand. With the exception of one deer, with parasites residing in a transparent cyst just under the liver capsule, worms (ranging from 2 to >20/deer) were found free in the peritoneal cavity. The worms were identified as S. tundra by morphological examination and/or molecular typing of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA and cox1 genes, which showed 99.1–99.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/56/main.PMC5312512.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2875517", "abstract": "Certain noble gases, though inert, exhibit remarkable biological properties. Notably, xenon and argon provide neuroprotection in animal models of central nervous system injury. In the previous issue of Critical Care, Loetscher and colleagues provided further evidence that argon may have therapeutic properties for neuronal toxicity by demonstrating protection against both traumatic and oxygen-glucose deprivation injury of organotypic hippocampal cultures in vitro. Their data are of interest as argon is more abundant, and therefore cheaper, than xenon (the latter of which is currently in clinical trials for perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury; TOBYXe; NCT00934700). We eagerly await in vivo data to complement the promising in vitro data hailing argon neuroprotection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d0/87/PMC2875517.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2447727", "abstract": "The efficiency of molecular methods involving DNA/DNA hybridizations depends on the accurate prediction of the melting temperature (Tm) of the duplex. Many softwares are available for Tm calculations, but difficulties arise when one wishes to check if a given oligomer (PCR primer or probe) hybridizes well or not on more than a single sequence. Moreover, the presence of mismatches within the duplex is not sufficient to estimate specificity as it does not always significantly decrease the Tm. OHM (OligoHeatMap) is an online tool able to provide estimates of Tm for a set of oligomers and a set of aligned sequences, not only as text files of complete results but also in a graphical way: Tm values are translated into colors and displayed as a heat map image, either stand alone or to be used by softwares such as TreeDyn to be included in a phylogenetic tree. OHM is freely available at http://bioinfo.unice.fr/ohm/, with links to the full source code and online help.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/67/88/gkn221.PMC2447727.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3921268", "abstract": "Objective: To determine the cost-effectiveness of a worksite-based naturopathic (individualized lifestyle counseling and nutritional medicine) approach to primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Methods: Economic evaluation alongside a pragmatic, multi-worksite, randomized controlled trial comparing enhanced usual care (EUC; usual care plus biometric screening) to the addition of a naturopathic approach to CVD prevention (NC+EUC). Results: After 1 year, NC+EUC resulted in a net decrease of 3.3 (confidence interval: 1.7 to 4.8) percentage points in 10-year CVD event risk (number needed to treat = 30). These risk reductions came with average net study-year savings of 1138 in societal costs and1187 in employer costs. There was no change in quality-adjusted life years across the study year. Conclusions: A naturopathic approach to CVD primary prevention significantly reduced CVD risk over usual care plus biometric screening and reduced costs to society and employers in this multi-worksite—based study. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00718796.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2f/0b/joem-56-171.PMC3921268.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2775119", "abstract": "Abstract. Polycystic kidney diseases (PKDs) represent a large group of progressive renal disorders characterized by the development of renal cysts leading to end-stage renal disease. Enormous strides have been made in understanding the pathogenesis of PKDs and the development of new therapies. Studies of autosomal dominant and recessive polycystic kidney diseases converge on molecular mechanisms of cystogenesis, including ciliary abnormalities and intracellular calcium dysregulation, ultimately leading to increased proliferation, apoptosis and dedifferentiation. Here we review the pathobiology of PKD, highlighting recent progress in elucidating common molecular pathways of cystogenesis. We discuss available models and challenges for therapeutic discovery as well as summarize the results from preclinical experimental treatments targeting key disease-specific pathways.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1c/32/PMC2775119.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4402204", "abstract": "Memories are stored, at least partly, as patterns of strong synapses. Given molecular turnover, how can synapses maintain strong for the years that memories can persist? Some models postulate that biochemical bistability maintains strong synapses. However, bistability should give a bimodal distribution of synaptic strength or weight, whereas current data show unimodal distributions for weights and for a correlated variable, dendritic spine volume. Thus it is important for models to simulate both unimodal distributions and long-term memory persistence. Here a model is developed that connects ongoing, competing processes of synaptic growth and weakening to stochastic processes of receptor insertion and removal in dendritic spines. The model simulates long-term (>1 yr) persistence of groups of strong synapses. A unimodal weight distribution results. For stability of this distribution it proved essential to incorporate resource competition between synapses organized into small clusters. With competition, these clusters are stable for years. These simulations concur with recent data to support the “clustered plasticity hypothesis” which suggests clusters, rather than single synaptic contacts, may be a fundamental unit for storage of long-term memory. The model makes empirical predictions and may provide a framework to investigate mechanisms maintaining the balance between synaptic plasticity and stability of memory.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ca/40/PMC4402204.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4751118", "abstract": "In our previous study, we genetically analyzed bovine viral diarrhea viruses (BVDVs) isolated from 2000 to 2006 in Japan and reported that subgenotype 1b viruses were predominant. In the present study, 766 BVDVs isolated from 2006 to 2014 in Hokkaido, Japan, were genetically analyzed to understand recent epidemics. Phylogenetic analysis based on nucleotide sequences of the 5′-untranslated region of viral genome revealed that 766 isolates were classified as genotype 1 (BVDV-1; 544 isolates) and genotype 2 (BVDV-2; 222). BVDV-1 isolates were further divided into BVDV-1a (93), 1b (371) and 1c (80) subgenotypes, and all BVDV-2 isolates were grouped into BVDV-2a subgenotype (222). Further comparative analysis was performed with BVDV-1a, 1b and 2a viruses isolated from 2001 to 2014. Phylogenetic analysis based on nucleotide sequences of the viral glycoprotein E2 gene, a major target of neutralizing antibodies, revealed that BVDV-1a, 1b and 2a isolates were further classified into several clusters. Cross-neutralization tests showed that BVDV-1b isolates were antigenically different from BVDV-1a isolates, and almost BVDV-1a, 1b and 2a isolates were antigenically similar among each subgenotype and each E2 cluster. Taken together, BVDV-1b viruses are still predominant, and BVDV-2a viruses have increased recently in Hokkaido, Japan. Field isolates of BVDV-1a, 1b and 2a show genetic diversity on the E2 gene with antigenic conservation among each subgenotype during the last 14 years.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/8c/jvms-78-061.PMC4751118.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4499997", "abstract": "[Purpose] To determine the effects of cervical sustained natural apophyseal glide on forward head posture and respiratory function. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty male and female adults in their 20s with forward head posture were included in the study. The subjects were divided randomly into experimental and control groups (n=15 each). Subjects in the experimental group performed cervical sustained natural apophyseal glide three times/week for four weeks while subjects in the control group did not perform the intervention. The craniovertebral angle, forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in the first second, as well as the ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/1e/jpts-27-1851.PMC4499997.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1550882", "abstract": "Mechanical ventilation can cause structural and functional disturbances in the lung, as well as other vital organ dysfunctions. Apoptosis is thought to be a histological sign of distant organ damage in ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). Nakos and colleagues observed a protective effect of prone positioning against VILI in normal sheep. Less alteration in the lung architecture and function and in liver transaminases, and lower indices for apoptosis in the liver, the diaphragm and the lung were noted in the prone position compared with the supine position. If confirmed, these data open a new hypothesis for pathogenesis and prevention of VILI and its extrapulmonary complications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ec/7a/PMC1550882.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4736006", "abstract": "Adolescent exposure to cannabinoids enhances the behavioural effects of cocaine, and high novelty-seeking trait predicts greater sensitivity to the conditioned place preference (CPP) induced by this drug. Our aim was to evaluate the influence of novelty-seeking on the effects of adolescent cannabinoid exposure. Adolescent male mice were classified as high or low novelty seekers (HNS and LNS) in the hole-board test. First, we evaluated the CPP induced by the cannabinoid agonist WIN 55212-2 (0.05 and 0.075 mg/kg, i.p.) in HNS and LNS mice. Then, HNS and LNS mice were pretreated i.p. with vehicle, WIN 55212-2 (0.1 mg/kg), or cannabinoid antagonist rimonabant (1 mg/kg) and were subsequently conditioned with WIN 55212-2 (0.05 mg/kg, i.p.) or cocaine (1 or 6 mg/kg, i.p.). Only HNS mice conditioned with the 0.075 mg/kg dose acquired CPP with WIN 55212-2. Adolescent exposure to this cannabinoid agonist increased the rewarding effects of 1 mg/kg of cocaine in both HNS and LNS mice, and in HNS mice it also increased the reinstating effect of a low dose of cocaine. Our results endorse a role for individual differences such as a higher propensity for sensation-seeking in the development of addiction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/57/f7/PMC4736006.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2761004", "abstract": "The DNA polymerase δ (POL3/CDC2) allele pol3-t of Saccharomyces cerevisiae has previously been shown to be sensitive to methylmethanesulfonate (MMS) and has been proposed to be involved in base excision repair. Our results, however, show that the pol3-t mutation is synergistic for MMS sensitivity with MAG1, a known base excision repair gene, but it is epistatic with rad50Δ, suggesting that POL3 may be involved not only in base excision repair but also in a RAD50 dependent function. We further studied the interaction of pol3-t with rad50Δ by examining their effect on spontaneous, MMS-, UV-, and ionizing radiation-induced intrachromosomal recombination. We found that rad50Δ completely abolishes the elevated spontaneous frequency of intrachromosomal recombination in the pol3-t mutant and significantly decreases UV- and MMS-induced recombination in both POL3 and pol3-t strains. Interestingly, rad50Δ had no effect on γ-ray-induced recombination in both backgrounds between 0 and 50 Gy. Finally, the deletion of RAD50 had no effect on the elevated frequency of homologous integration conferred by the pol3-t mutation. RAD50 is  possibly involved in resolution of replication forks that are stalled by mutagen-induced external DNA damage, or internal DNA damage produced by growing the pol3-t mutant at the restrictive temperature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/bb/PMC2761004.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4590865", "abstract": "An adult Angus cow developed hyperthermia, prostration, and respiratory distress, dying 36 hours after the onset of clinical signs. The main finding during postmortem examination was a severe focally extensive pneumonia. Icterus and a chronic mastitis were also noticed. Histologic examination of the lungs detected fibrinonecrotic pneumonia, with large number of oat cells and intralesional Gram-negative bacterial colonies. Samples from lung lesions were collected, and a pure growth of Escherichia fergusonii was obtained. E. fergusonii is a member of Enterobacteriaceae, related to Escherichia coli and Salmonella sp. In veterinary medicine, E. fergusonii has been reported in calves and sheep with clinical cases suggestive of salmonellosis; in a horse and a goat with enteritis and septicemia; and in ostriches with fibrinonecrotic typhlitis. To our knowledge, this report represents the first description of E. fergusonii associated with an acute pneumonia in cattle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/70/PMC4590865.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3320373", "abstract": "Lyme disease test results for >9,000 dogs were collected from participating veterinary clinics. Testing was conducted by using the IDEXX 3Dx kit, used widely by Maine veterinarians to screen clinically normal dogs during heartworm season. This study demonstrates how this test can be a valuable public health disease surveillance tool.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0b/a4/PMC3320373.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3361274", "abstract": "The mechanisms of human preterm labour appear inextricably linked to cytokine biosynthesis by gestational tissues. In turn, cytokine production by gestational tissues has been shown to be regulated by epigenetic mechanisms. In this paper, we demonstrate that cytokine production in gestational tissues is regulated epigenetically in a tissue-specific manner. Furthermore, we show that treatment with a histone deacetylation inhibitor can partially abrogate LPS-stimulated TNFα production in villous placenta but not amnion. LPS treatment significantly (P < 0.05) increased the production of IL-1β (∼10–34-fold), TNFα (∼23–>100-fold) and IL10 (∼6–10-fold) after 24 h of treatment in villous explants, as expected. There were no significant LPS effects on IL1Ra production. AZA treatment did not have any significant effect on any cytokines' production tested either alone or in combination with LPS. Interestingly, however, the stimulatory effects of LPS on TNFα production were partially mitigated (P < 0.05) by TSA treatment in villous explants. We suggest caution in the consideration of histone deacetylation inhibitors in pregnancy due to the different responses in gestational tissues.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6a/67/PMC3361274.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3594980", "abstract": "Genetic retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and monogenic diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa account for some of the commonest causes of blindness in the developed world. Diverse genetic abnormalities and environmental causes have been implicated in triggering multiple pathological mechanisms such as oxidative stress, lipofuscin deposits, neovascularisation, and programmed cell death. In recent years, inflammation has also been highlighted although whether inflammatory mediators play a central role in pathogenesis or a more minor secondary role has yet to be established. Despite this, numerous interventional studies, particularly targeting the complement system, are underway with the promise of novel therapeutic strategies for these important blinding conditions.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fa/41/PMC3594980.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3972938", "abstract": "This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of local renal ischemic postconditioning (POC) on liver damage after renal ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. Male rats were divided into three groups  (n = 8). They underwent a right nephrectomy before induction of 45 minutes of left kidney ischemia or sham operation. POC was performed by four cycles of 10 seconds of ischemia and 10 seconds of reperfusion just at the beginning of 24 hours of reperfusion. Then blood and liver samples were collected to measure serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and liver oxidative stress parameters including superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Renal IR caused a significant increase in liver functional indices as demonstrated by increased serum AST and ALT compared to sham group. These parameters reduced significantly in POC group compared to IR group. Liver MDA levels increased and SOD activity decreased in IR group compared to sham group. Induction of POC reduced the elevated liver MDA levels and increased the reduced liver SOD activity. These results revealed that renal IR injury causes liver damage as a remote organ and POC protects liver from renal IR injury by a modification in the hepatic oxidative stress status.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f3/5d/PMC3972938.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5065327", "abstract": "Impaired glucose tolerance can have significant health consequences. The purposes of this preliminary study were to examine whether a single session of kettlebell exercise improves acute post-exercise glucose tolerance in sedentary individuals, and whether it was as effective as high-intensity interval running. Six sedentary male subjects underwent a two-hour oral glucose tolerance test following three different conditions: 1) control (no exercise); 2) kettlebell exercise (2 sets of 7 exercises, 15 repetitions per exercise with 30 seconds rest between each exercise); or 3) high-intensity interval running (10 one-minute intervals at a workload corresponding to 90", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/59/fe/PMC5065327.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5136440", "abstract": "Introduction: Non Hodgkin lymphoma-Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBC) is composed of more varieties of one disease. Analysis and understanding of a wide range of characteristics of the disease, which include: clinical, immunohistochemical, cytogenetic and molecular characteristics may improve treatment results. Aim: achieving the estimated three-year survival and influence of IRF/MUM1 expression to three-year survival. Material and methods: A study was retrospective–prospective, patients were followed for seven years a period of dine. The study included 60 patients de novo DLBCL. Age was 18-72 years old, the average age 45 years, male 31 (51,7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/51/94/MA-70-342.PMC5136440.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3134306", "abstract": "Indolicidin, a cationic antimicrobial tridecapeptide amide, is rich in proline and tryptophan residues. Its biological activity is intensively studied, but the details how indolicidin interacts with membranes are not fully understood yet. We report here an in situ atomic force microscopic study describing the effect of indolicidin on an artificial supported planar bilayer membrane of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and on purple membrane of Halobacterium salinarum. Concentration dependent interaction of the peptide and membranes was found in case of DPPC resulting the destruction of the membrane. Purple membrane was much more resistant against indolicidin, probably due to its high protein content. Indolicidin preferred the border of membrane disks, where the lipids are more accessible. These data suggest that the atomic force microscope is a powerful tool in the study of indolicidin-membrane interaction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/99/46/PMC3134306.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3864462", "abstract": "Indwelling epidural catheters are frequently used to manage postoperative pain. This report describes a patient who developed methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) vertebral osteomyelitis of the lumbar spine following epidural catheterization. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of MRSA vertebral osteomyelitis secondary to epidural catheter use in the English orthopedic literature. The patient and his family consented to publishing the data.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fa/41/PMC3864462.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4430991", "abstract": "Objective Cervical lateral mass screw insertion and rod fixation is a useful method for stabilizing the cervical disease, so various modified techniques were present. Many surgeons had reported the biomechanical safety according to the screw positioning method in the cervical spine, but the modified Magerl's method (Yoon's method) was not well studied. So, this study assessed the radiological efficacy of the modified Magerl's method with long-term follow-up. Methods This study retrospectively reviewed 323 lateral mass screws of 50 patients who had followed-up at least 2 years. Radiologic data were analyzed as parameters of complications after operation, including kyphotic or lordotic change, bone fusion, pull-out or malposition of screw, foraminal stenosis, adjacent disc degeneration or aggravation, pseudoarthrosis, and vertebral artery injury. Results The mean follow-up period was 32 (24 to 52) months. There were kyphotic changes in 4.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e8/a8/kjs-9-137.PMC4430991.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3202137", "abstract": "Hepcidin, a key regulator of iron metabolism, is activated by bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Mice pair-fed with regular and ethanol-containing L. De Carli diets were employed to study the effect of alcohol on BMP signaling and hepcidin transcription in the liver. Alcohol induced steatosis and TGF-beta expression. Liver BMP2, but not BMP4 or BMP6, expression was significantly elevated. Despite increased BMP expression, the BMP receptor, and transcription factors, Smad1 and Smad5, were not activated. In contrast, alcohol stimulated Smad2 phosphorylation. However, Smad4 DNA-binding activity and the binding of Smad4 to hepcidin promoter were attenuated. In summary, alcohol stimulates TGF-beta and BMP2 expression, and Smad2 phosphorylation but inhibits BMP receptor, and Smad1 and Smad5 activation. Smad signaling pathway in the liver may therefore be involved in the regulation of hepcidin transcription and iron metabolism by alcohol. These findings may help to further understand the mechanisms of alcohol and iron-induced liver injury.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/89/88/PMC3202137.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3341819", "abstract": "Purpose We compared and analyzed the short term results of high flexion total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with mobile-bearing and fixed bearing designs. Materials and Methods We studied 32 patients that had undergone TKA with LPS-Flex Mobile and 34 patients with LPS-Flex Fixed using an electromagnetic navigation system between January 2010 and June 2010, and were followed up for at least 1 year. Results Knee Society Functional Score (KSFS) and Knee Society Knee Score (KSKS) of the mobile-bearing group were 94.5 and 93.8 points, respectively, and were 48.2 and 45.3 points preoperatively, whereas those of the fixed-bearing group were 95.1 and 94.2 points, respectively, and were 49.5 and 46.9 points preoperatively. Postoperative mechanical axis deviation and implant position of the femoral and tibial component both on the coronal and sigittal planes showed no significant differences between the two groups. Range of motion (ROM) and maximal flexion angle (MFA) of the knee joint also showed no significant differences between the two groups. The possibility of crossed-legged sitting and kneeling position also showed no significant differences between the two groups. Conclusions Clinical and radiologic parameters, ROM and MFA of knee joints showed no significant differences in both the groups, but long term follow-up results may be necessary, including survival rate.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3d/49/ksrr-24-25.PMC3341819.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4494845", "abstract": "Abstract In this paper I summarize our recent investigations (Park and Kim, Phys Chem C 111:14903, 2007; Solid State Ionics 179:1329, 2008) on the origin of the grain-boundary resistance in a doped LaGaO3, a perovskite-structured solid electrolyte. The partial electronic and ionic resistances of the bulk and the grain boundaries, as well as the total resistance, in 1 mol", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2e/59/706_2009_Article_136.PMC4494845.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3449126", "abstract": " Objective. Vietnamese American women are at the greatest risk for cervical cancer but have the lowest cervical cancer screening rates. This study was to determine whether demographic and acculturation, healthcare access, and knowledge and beliefs are associated with a prior history of cervical cancer screening among Vietnamese women. Methods. Vietnamese women (n = 1450) from 30 Vietnamese community-based organizations located in Pennsylvania and New Jersey participated in the study and completed baseline assessments. Logistic regression analyses were performed. Results. Overall levels of knowledge about cervical cancer screening and human papillomavirus (HPV) are low. Factors in knowledge, attitude, and beliefs domains were significantly associated with Pap test behavior. In multivariate analyses, physician recommendation for screening and having health insurance were positively associated with prior screening. Conclusion. Understanding the factors that are associated with cervical cancer screening will inform the development of culturally appropriate intervention strategies that would potentially lead to increasing cervical cancer screening rates among Vietnamese women.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/75/2a/PMC3449126.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3422899", "abstract": "Background: Over the last two decades, morphological cardiac changes induced by athletic conditioning have been of great interest. Therefore, several studies have been orchestrated to delineate electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, and heart rate variability (HRV) findings in athletes. Purpose: To assess the ECG, echocardiography, and HRV in a group of dynamic and static type athletes. Methods: Fifty professional athletes (20 static and 30 dynamic exercise athletes) and 50 healthy nonathletes (control group) were recruited. Standard 12-lead ECG and transthoracic echocardiography was performed on all athletes and the control group. Through echocardiography, variables including left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic/systolic diameter, LV mass, and left atrial volume index were measured. In addition, both the athletes and the control group underwent ECG Holter monitoring for 15 minutes and several parameters related to HRV (time and frequency domain) were recorded. Results: The most common ECG abnormalities among the athletes were sinus bradycardia and incomplete right bundle branch block. LV end-diastolic diameter and left atrial volume index were significantly greater in the dynamic athletes (P < 0.001). LV end-systolic diameter was significantly lower in the static group (P < 0.001). LV mass of the dynamic and static athletes was significantly greater than that of the controls (P < 0.001). Among the ECG Holter monitoring findings, the dynamic athletes had lower systolic blood pressure than the controls (P = 0.01). Heart rate was lowest in the control group (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The most common ECG abnormalities among adolescent Iranian athletes were sinus bradycardia and incomplete right bundle branch block. Static exercise seemed to reduce LV end-systolic diameter, while dynamic exercise resulted in increased LV end-diastolic diameter and left atrial volume index. Additionally, Iranian athletes showed no differences in HRV parameters, excluding heart rate and systolic blood pressure, compared with the nonathletes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/67/ba/PMC3422899.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3320019", "abstract": "Lipid droplets (LDs), initially considered “inert” lipid deposits, have gained during the last decade the classification of cytosolic organelles due to their defined composition and the multiplicity of specific cellular functions in which they are involved. The classification of LD as organelles brings along the need for their regulated turnover and recent findings support the direct contribution of autophagy to this turnover through a process now described as lipophagy. This paper focuses on the characteristics of this new type of selective autophagy and the cellular consequences of the mobilization of intracellular lipids through this process. Lipophagy impacts the cellular energetic balance directly, through lipid breakdown and, indirectly, by regulating food intake. Defective lipophagy has been already linked to important metabolic disorders such as fatty liver, obesity and atherosclerosis, and the age-dependent decrease in autophagy could underline the basis for the metabolic syndrome of aging.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c1/24/PMC3320019.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3600201", "abstract": "Acute lung injury (ALI) is characterized by alveolar edema and uncontrolled neutrophil migration to the lung, and no specific therapy is still available. Ellagic acid, a compound present in several fruits and medicinal plants, has shown anti-inflammatory activity in several experimental disease models. We used the nonlethal acid aspiration model of ALI in mice to determine whether preventive or therapeutic administration of ellagic acid (10 mg/kg; oral route) could interfere with the development or establishment of ALI inflammation. Dexamethasone (1 mg/kg; subcutaneous route) was used as a positive control. In both preventive and therapeutic treatments, ellagic acid reduced the vascular permeability changes and neutrophil recruitment to the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and to lung compared to the vehicle. In addition, the ellagic acid accelerated the resolution for lung neutrophilia. Moreover, ellagic acid reduced the COX-2-induced exacerbation of inflammation. These results were similar to the dexamethasone. However, while the anti-inflammatory effects of dexamethasone treatment were due to the reduced activation of NF-κB and AP-1, the ellagic acid treatment led to reduced BALF levels of IL-6 and increased levels of IL-10. In addition, dexamethasone treatment reduced IL-1β. Together, these findings identify ellagic acid as a potential therapeutic agent for ALI-associated inflammation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4d/d6/PMC3600201.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3980519", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Inguinal hernia containing bladder carcinoma is a very rare occurrence. PRESENTATION OF CASE We report a case of a male patient who presented with a left groin hernia containing an irregular mass. The hernia was repaired without the use of mesh and a partial cystectomy was done. DISCUSSION Only 1–3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ed/0d/main.PMC3980519.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4968523", "abstract": "[Purpose] This study examined the clinical usefulness of the clock drawing test applying Rasch analysis for predicting the level of cognitive impairment. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 187 stroke patients with cognitive impairment were enrolled in this study. The 187 patients were evaluated by the clock drawing test developed through Rasch analysis along with the mini-mental state examination of cognitive evaluation tool. An analysis of the variance was performed to examine the significance of the mini-mental state examination and the clock drawing test according to the general characteristics of the subjects. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to determine the cutoff point for cognitive impairment and to calculate the sensitivity and specificity values. [Results] The results of comparison of the clock drawing test with the mini-mental state showed significant differences in according to gender, age, education, and affected side. A total CDT of 10.5, which was selected as the cutoff point to identify cognitive impairement, showed a sensitivity, specificity, Youden index, positive predictive, and negative predicive values of 86.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f1/03/jpts-28-2140.PMC4968523.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5005985", "abstract": "Objectives: The objectives of this study were to analyze deaths after gestational trophoblastic neoplasia and to determine the factors of treatment failure. Methods: This is a retrospective study in Aristide Le Dantec teaching Hospital in Dakar, Senegal, between 1 January 2006 and 31 December 2014. We took into account socio-epidemiological characteristics of patients, initial diagnosis, time between uterine evacuation and admission, time to onset of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), treatment received (deadlines, protocols), difficulties experienced in the diagnosis and the initiation of treatment and survival. Results: In total, 1044 patients were admitted during the study period; 164 cases of GTN were diagnosed (15.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/57/d0/IJMA-5-32.PMC5005985.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4391016", "abstract": "Statins are widely used drugs to lower cholesterol levels and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, it has been reported that statins are associated with adverse side effects of skeletal myopathy. Statin treatment can impair mitochondrial function and induce apoptosis in skeletal muscle in both human and animal models. Ubiquinone plays an essential role in transferring electrons in the mitochondrial electron transfer chain for oxidative phosphorylation. However, statin treatment reduces ubiquinone levels in the cholesterol synthesis pathway, which may be associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. In addition, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and apoptosis induced by statins may provide cellular and molecular mechanisms in skeletal myopathy. Exercise is the most effective therapy to prevent metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. However, whether exercise provides a benefit to or exacerbation of statin-induced myopathy in skeletal muscle remains poorly investigated. This review will briefly provide a comprehensive summary regarding the effects of statins on skeletal myopathy, and discuss the potential mechanisms of statin-induced myopathy and the role of exercise in statin-induced myopathy in skeletal muscle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/af/f8/jlm-04-71.PMC4391016.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4211530", "abstract": "Reticulate acropigmentation of Kitamura (RAK) and Dowling-Degos Disease (DDD) are rare genodermatosis inherited as an autosomal dominant trait with variable penetrance. They are part of a spectrum of diseases with hyperpigmented macules coalescing in a reticular pattern, facial and palmoplantar pits, breaks in dermatoglyphics, comedo-like lesions and epidermoid cysts, and a unique histological picture of hyperpigmented digitate epidermal downgrowths. The authors describe the case of a 45-year-old female with reticulate acropigmentation of the dorsa of the hands and feet, hyperpigmented macules on the axilla and around the mouth, and palmar pitting. Clinical and histological findings, together with a relevant family history, allowed the authors to consider this case an example of the rare event of an overlap RAK-DDD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/78/82/PMC4211530.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1474150", "abstract": "The elaboration of extremely complex nervous systems is a major success of evolution. However, at the dawn of the post-genomic era, few data have helped yet to unravel how a nervous system develops and evolves to complexity. On the evolutionary road to vertebrates, amphioxus occupies a key position to tackle this exciting issue. Its “simple” nervous system basically consists of a dorsal nerve cord and a diffuse net of peripheral neurons, which contrasts greatly with the complexity of vertebrate nervous systems. Notwithstanding, increasing data on gene expression has faced up this simplicity by revealing a mounting level of cryptic complexity, with unexpected levels of neuronal diversity, organisation and regionalisation of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Furthermore, recent gene expression data also point to the high neurogenic potential of the epidermis of amphioxus, suggestive of a skin-brain track for the evolution of the vertebrate nervous system. Here I attempt to catalogue and synthesise current gene expression data in the amphioxus nervous system. From this global point of view, I suggest scenarios for the evolutionary origin of complex features in the vertebrate nervous system, with special emphasis on the evolutionary origin of placodes and neural crest, and postulate a pre-patterned migratory pathway of cells, which, in the epidermis, may represent an intermediate state towards the deployment of one of the most striking innovative features of vertebrates: the neural crest and its derivatives.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/37/PMC1474150.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3337142", "abstract": "While it has become increasingly clear that the Tree of Life hypothesis has limitations in its ability to describe the evolution of all evolving entities on the planet, there has been a marked reluctance to move away from the tree-based language. Ironically, while modifying the idea of the Tree of Life to the extent that it is only very distantly related to its original descriptions, there has been a very careful attempt to retain the language of tree-thinking. The recent movement away from a tree-thinking language toward a goods-thinking language and perspective is a significant improvement. In this commentary, we describe how goods-thinking can provide better descriptions of evolution, can integrate evolution with environment more closely and can offer an equal place for Mobile Genetic Elements and chromosomal elements in discussions of evolutionary history.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/eb/cb/mge-1-304.PMC3337142.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4274832", "abstract": "Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) belong to a specific class of nanomaterials with unique properties. Because of their anticipated use in a wide range of industrial applications, their toxicity is of increasing concern. In order to determine whether specific physicochemical characteristics of CNTs are responsible for their toxicological effects, we investigated the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of eight CNTs representative of each of the commonly encountered classes: single- SW-, double- DW-, and multiwalled (MW) CNTs, purified and raw. In addition, because most previous studies of CNT toxicity were conducted on immortalized cell lines, we decided to compare results obtained from V79 cells, an established cell line, with results from SHE (Syrian hamster embryo) cells, an easy-to-handle normal cell model.  After 24 hours of treatment, MWCNTs were generally found to be more cytotoxic than SW- or DWCNTs. MWCNTs also provoked more genotoxic effects. No correlation could be found between CNT genotoxicity and metal impurities, length, surface area, or induction of cellular oxidative stress, but genotoxicity was seen to increase with CNT width. The toxicity observed for some CNTs leads us to suggest that they might also act by interfering with the cell cycle, but no significant differences were observed between normal and immortalized cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a7/39/PMC4274832.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3465960", "abstract": "Hepatitis B infection is a major global health problem. Vertical transmission is the commonest route of spreading hepatitis B virus (HBV) in many endemic areas. In order to control such transmission in Hong Kong, neonatal immunization programme was implemented for more than two decades. A declining prevalence of HBV infection was expected. However, the prevalence remained unabated at around 10", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/06/af/PMC3465960.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4756207", "abstract": "The cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is known to stimulate proinflammatory immune responses and impair β-cell function and viability, all critical events in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Here we evaluate the effect of SER140, a small peptide IL-1β receptor antagonist, on diabetes progression and cellular pancreatic changes in female nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice. Eight weeks of treatment with SER140 reduced the incidence of diabetes by more than 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/88/11/PMC4756207.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3970639", "abstract": "This study aimed to analyse changes in the spatial distribution of Lutzomyia longipalpis in Posadas, an urban area located in northeastern Argentina. Data were obtained during the summer of 2007 and 2009 through two entomological surveys of peridomiciles distributed around the city. The abundance distribution pattern for 2009 was computed and compared with the previous pattern obtained in 2007, when the first human visceral leishmaniasis cases were reported in the city. Vector abundance was also examined in relation to micro and macrohabitat characteristics. In 2007 and 2009, Lu. longipalpis was distributed among 41.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6e/10/0074-0276-mioc-108-07-00817.PMC3970639.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4164105", "abstract": "Abstract A 66-year-old female with follicular lymphoma developed severe liver dysfunction and nonallergic bronchitis after 1 cycle of treatment with bendamustine and rituximab (BR) therapy. Simultaneously, eosinophilia was observed. Further examination revealed negative results for both hepatitis virus-induced liver damage and lymphoma cell invasion into the liver. No bacterial, fungal, or cytomegaloviral infections of the respiratory tract were observed. The patient was treated with steroid pulse therapy followed by prednisolone with complete resolution of her symptoms. This suggests that eosinophilia induced by the treatment with BR may result in liver dysfunction and nonallergic bronchitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/75/dc/PMC4164105.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4913161", "abstract": "Placement of an implantable cardioverter–defibrillator (ICD) is the only powerful treatment modality for Brugada syndrome in patients presenting with ventricular fibrillation (VF). For those whose first presentation is an electrical storm, pharmacologic therapy is typically used to control VF followed by ICD implantation. We report an alternative approach whereby, before ICD implantation, emergency catheter ablation of the VF-triggering premature ventricular contraction (PVC) resulted in long-term VF-free survival. The results suggest that, because VF triggers appear in a narrow time window, ablation of the culprit PVCs that initiate VF before the index PVCs subside is a reasonable alternative approach.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/21/be/main.PMC4913161.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4110468", "abstract": "We report the case of a 67-year-old female who presented with a large renal mass. Gross examination of the nephrectomy specimen demonstrated a 6-cm renal mass that invaded into the renal sinus and perinephric fat. Histologic examination revealed two distinct tumor types. The first type was a conventional (clear cell) renal cell carcinoma that was of low nuclear grade and comprised the minority of the overall tumor. The second type was a high-grade collecting duct carcinoma with glandular/tubular differentiation and composed the majority of the tumor. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated distinctive patterns of the two tumor types, thus confirming two distinct lineages. Five months postoperatively, the patient developed metastasis to the lungs and right hilar lymph node region. A fine needle aspiration of a lung nodule demonstrated a metastatic, poorly differentiated carcinoma, similar to the collecting duct carcinoma component in the kidney. Collision tumors of the kidney are rare with fewer than 10 cases reported in the literature. Our report further expands the spectrum of this rare phenomenon.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/74/cjc-33-07-351.PMC4110468.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4754268", "abstract": "Background Lipid emulsions have been used to treat various drug toxicities and for total parenteral nutrition therapy. Their usefulness has also been confirmed in patients with local anesthetic-induced cardiac toxicity. The purpose of this study was to measure the hemodynamic and composition effects of lipid emulsions and to elucidate the mechanism associated with changes in intracellular calcium levels in myocardiocytes. Methods We measured hemodynamic effects using a digital analysis system after Intralipid® and Lipofundin® MCT/LCT were infused into hearts hanging in a Langendorff perfusion system. We measured the effects of the lipid emulsions on intracellular calcium levels in H9c2 cells by confocal microscopy. Results Infusion of Lipofundin® MCT/LCT 20", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/df/1d/kjae-69-57.PMC4754268.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3018771", "abstract": "Replantation of avulsed spinal ventral roots has been show to enable significant and useful regrowth of motor axons in both experimental animals and in human clinical cases, making up an interesting exception to the rule of unsuccessful neuronal regeneration in central nervous system. Compared to avulsion without repair, ventral root replantation seems to rescue lesioned motoneurons from death. In this study we have analyzed the acute response to ventral root avulsion and replantation in adult rats with gene arrays combined with cluster analysis of gene ontology search terms. The data show significant differences between rats subjected to ventral replantation compared to avulsion only. Even though number of genes related to cell death is similar in the two models after 24 h, we observed a significantly larger number of genes related to neurite growth and development in the rats treated with ventral root replantation, possibly reflecting the neuroregenerative capacity in the replantation model. In addition, an acute inflammatory response was observed after avulsion, while effects on genes related to synaptic transmission were much more pronounced after replantation than after avulsion alone. These data indicate that the axonal regenerative response from replantation is initiated at an earlier stage than the possible differences in terms of neuron survival. We conclude that this type of analysis may facilitate the comparison of the acute response in two types of injury.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5c/2a/PMC3018771.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5364753", "abstract": "Introduction: Improving the health of the elderly must be based on their special needs that can be achieved through self-needs assessments through education, which is one of the most important tools in the field of health improvement. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of need-oriented educational interventions on the general health of the elderly living in nursing homes. Materials and Methods: The present study is a clinical trial conducted among the elderly living at the Sadeghieh nursing home of Isfahan, Iran. Seventy elderly people who satisfied the inclusion criteria were selected and divided into two groups of case and control. The case group went through 8 sessions of group therapy for educating participants who were previously investigated through needs assessment. The control group received the usual health care. The general health level of the participants was evaluated before and 1 week and 1 month after the intervention using Goldberg's general health questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Chi-square test, independent t-test, paired t-test, Mann–Whitney test, and variance analysis. Results: The score of general health had no significant difference between both the groups before the intervention, however, the difference in the score between both the groups 1 week and 1 month after the intervention was significant (1 week after the intervention, the scores were 15.6 and 30.3, and 1 month after the intervention, the scores were 16 and 32.2, respectively) (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Need-oriented educational intervention is an effective, safe, and inexpensive method for improving the general health of the elderly living in nursing homes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c1/98/IJNMR-22-51.PMC5364753.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3647556", "abstract": " Aims. Adipocytokines are implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and may represent identifiable precursors of metabolic disease within high-risk groups. We investigated adiponectin, leptin, and TNF-α and assessed the contribution of these molecules to insulin resistance in south Asians.  Hypothesis. South Asians have adverse adipocytokine profiles which associate with an HOMA-derived insulin resistance phenotype.  Methods. We measured adipocytokine concentrations in south Asians with newly diagnosed impaired glucose tolerance or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a case-control study. 158 (48.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/89/10/PMC3647556.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC239923", "abstract": "Background Styrylpyrone derivative (SPD) is a plant-derived pharmacologically active compound extracted from Goniothalamus sp. Previously, we have reported that SPD inhibited the proliferation of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells by inducing apoptotic cell death, while having minimal effects on non-malignant cells. Here, we attempt to further elucidate the mode of action of SPD. Results We found that the intrinsic apoptotic pathway was invoked, with the accumulation of cytosolic cytochrome c and processing of the initiator caspase-9. Cleaved products of procaspase-8 were not detected. Next, the executioner caspase-7 was cleaved and activated in response to SPD treatment. To confirm that apoptosis was induced following caspase-7 activation, the caspase inhibitor Ac-DEVD-CHO was used. Pre-incubation of cells with this inhibitor reversed apoptosis levels and caspase-7 activity in SPD-treated cells to untreated levels. Conclusions Taken together, these results suggest SPD as a potent antiproliferative agent on MCF-7 cells by inducing apoptosis in a caspase-7-dependent manner.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/19/ed/PMC239923.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3804982", "abstract": " [Purpose] The aim of this study was to determine the appropriate pressure variation for performing a successful abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM). The abdominal muscle thickness variations and contraction ratios were examined in relation to pressure variations using a Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) during an ADIM in the supine position. [Methods] The PBU was placed identically between the lumbar lordosis of 20 healthy subjects (12 males and 8 females) and the pressure of the PBU was maintained at 40 mmHg. Then, while the subjects performed ADIM at four random pressure variations (0, 2, 4, or 6 mmHg), the thicknesses of the transversus abdominis (TrA), the internal oblique abdominal muscle (IO), and the external oblique abdominal muscle (EO) were measured using ultrasonography. [Results] Pressure increases of 0–2 mmHg resulted in significant decreases in IO and EO thicknesses compared to pressure increases of 6 mmHg. Increases of 0–2 mmHg also resulted in significant decreases in IO+EO and EO contraction ratios compared to pressure increases of 6 mmHg, while the preferential activation ratio of the TrA was significantly increased. [Conclusion] Compared to the other pressure increases, an increase of 0–2 mmHg effectively regulated the thicknesses and contraction ratios of superficial muscles such as IO and EO, rather than the thickness and contraction ratio of the TrA, showing high and indirect preferential activation ratios for TrA. Therefore, for successful ADIM, rather than using large PBU pressure increases, exercises that promote slight increases of around 0–2 mmHg from a baseline of 40 mmHg are desirable.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2d/e1/jpts-25-527.PMC3804982.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4392963", "abstract": "Parent and peer disapproval were examined as potential predictors of recreational use of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription pain medication. Risk perception was studied as a potential mediator of the effects of parent and peer disapproval. Four hundred and sixty-five college students (M age = 18.57, SD = 0.86) were recruited between September 2009 and September 2010. Participants completed an online survey about their recreational medication use, other substance use, and correlates of use. Path analyses showed that predictors of OTC and prescription pain medication recreational use are largely similar to predictors of marijuana use in college students such that risk perception mediated both the effect of parent and peer disapproval on dichotomous misuse, and peer disapproval had a significant direct effect on dichotomous misuse. Prevention interventions for recreational use of pain medication should target risk perception and peer disapproval.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d2/36/PMC4392963.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5014910", "abstract": "Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a phrase used to describe additional health care methods such as mind/body practices and natural products not regarded as treatments by conventional medicine. The use of CAM in children with common neurologic diseases is more frequent than its use in healthy children (24", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/90/93/kjped-59-313.PMC5014910.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3198239", "abstract": "Purpose We prospectively evaluated the surgical outcomes of single scrotal incision orchiopexy in children with a palpable undescended testis compared with the traditional two incision orchiopexy. Materials and Methods A total of 398 orchiopexies (292 children) were included and randomly assigned to the single scrotal incision orchiopexy group (Group I, 147 children, 201 testes) or the traditional inguinal incision orchiopexy group (Group II, 145 children, 197 testes). The final number of patients enrolled (excluding those lost to follow-up) was 107 children (146 testes) in group I and 105 children (141 testes) in group II. Success was defined as no complications, postoperative intrascrotal location of the testis, and no conversion to the traditional inguinal approach. Surgical outcomes and complications were compared between the two groups. Testicular location, complications, and subjective satisfaction rate were assessed at the follow-up evaluation at least 12 months postoperatively. Results The overall success rate in group I was 92.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/dd/a9/kju-52-637.PMC3198239.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3695253", "abstract": "Adrenal insufficiency, which is related to hemodynamic instability and increased mortality, has been reported in patients with advanced liver disease regardless of the presence of septic conditions. In this regard, the hepatoadrenal syndrome has been recently proposed as adrenal insufficiency in critically ill patients with liver disease. We describe here a 67-year-old female patient with hepatic failure and adrenal insufficiency. The patient showed stable vital signs and no evidence of sepsis preoperatively. Despite hydrocortisone replacement and inotropics administration, severe intraoperative hemodynamic instability was observed. Hydrocortisone administration was continued postoperatively, nevertheless inotropics could not be tapered. On postoperative day 11, the patient died due to pneumonia and septic shock. Hepatoadrenal syndrome may have played a key role in her severe hemodynamic fluctuation and poor outcome, reinforcing the importance of adrenal function in the liver transplantation surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/b0/kjae-64-536.PMC3695253.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2894088", "abstract": "A monolayer of dodecanethiol-stabilized gold nanoparticles changed into two-dimensional and three-dimensional self-organized structures by annealing at 323 K. Subsequent crystal growth of gold nanoparticles occurred. Thiol molecules, although chemisorbed, form relatively unstable bonds with the gold surface; a few thiols desorbed from the surface and oxidized to disulfides at 323 K, because the interaction energy between thiol macromolecules is larger than that between a thiol and a nanoparticle. The gold nanoparticles approached each other and grew into large single or twinned crystals because of the van der Waals attraction and the heat generated by the exothermic formation of disulfides.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/ff/1556-276X-5-813.PMC2894088.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4060400", "abstract": "Objectives: This study compares cancerogenesis risks posed by the 64 row detector and the 320 row detector computed tomography scanners used during coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) following decennial screening guidelines. Material and Methods: Data of the radiation absorbed after CCTA by lung, thyroid, and female breast in patients between 50 and 70 years of age obtained from prior published literature for the 64 row CT scanner were compared with data from our study using 320 row detector CT scanner. Data from the 64 row and the 320 row detector CT scanners was used to determine lifetime attributable risks (LAR) of cancer based on the biological effects of ionizing radiation (BEIR) VII report. Results: The relative reduction of LAR (", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3a/11/JCIS-4-18.PMC4060400.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4060421", "abstract": " Objectives. This review aims to evaluate the effect of orthodontic therapy on periodontal health. Data. Original articles that reported on the effect of orthodontic therapy on periodontal health were included. The reference lists of potentially relevant review articles were also sought. Sources. A literature search was conducted using the databases, Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases for relevant studies. The search was carried out by using a combined text and the MeSH search strategies: using the key words in different combinations: “periodontal disease,” “orthodontics” and “root resorption.” This was supplemented by hand-searching in peer-reviewed journals and cross-referenced with the articles accessed. Articles published only in English language were included. Letters to the Editor, historical reviews and unpublished articles were not sought. Conclusions. Within the limitations of the present literature review, it was observed that there is a very close inter-relationship between the periodontal health and the outcome of orthodontic therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b9/13/PMC4060421.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3603207", "abstract": "p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling is critical in the pathophysiology of a variety of inflammatory processes. Leukocyte recruitment to the site of inflammation is a multistep process governed by specific signalling cascades. After adhesion in the lumen, many leukocytes crawl to optimal sites at endothelial junctions and transmigrate to extravascular tissue in a Mac-1-dependent manner. The signalling mechanisms that regulate postadhesion steps of intraluminal crawling, transmigration, and chemotaxis in tissue remain incompletely understood. The present study explored the effect of p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 on various parameters of neutrophil recruitment triggered by chemokine KC (CXCL1) gradient. Neutrophil-endothelial interactions in microvasculature of murine cremaster muscle were determined using intravital microscopy and time-lapsed video analysis. SB203580 (100 nM) did not change leukocyte rolling but significantly attenuated neutrophil adhesion, emigration, and transmigration and impaired the initiation of neutrophil crawling and transmigration. In response to KC chemotactic gradient, SB203580 significantly reduced the velocity of migration and chemotaxis index of neutrophils in tissue. The upregulation of Mac-1 expression in neutrophils stimulated by KC was significantly blunted by SB203580 in vitro. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that pharmacological suppression of p38 MAPK significantly impairs multiple steps of neutrophil recruitment in vivo.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1f/22/PMC3603207.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2453614", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE—Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) is a member of the small heat shock protein family of proteins. HSP27 expression is enhanced in target tissues of diabetic microvascular complications, and changes in circulating serum HSP27 levels (sHSP27) have been reported in patients with macrovascular disease. We investigated whether sHSP27 levels were associated with micro- and macrovascular complications in type 1 diabetic patients. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A cross-sectional, nested, case-control study from the EURODIAB Prospective Complications Study of 531 type 1 diabetic patients was performed. Case subjects (n = 363) were defined as those with one or more complications of diabetes; control subjects (n = 168) were defined as those with no evidence of any complication. We measured sHSP27 levels and investigated their associations with diabetes complications. RESULTS—Mean sHSP27 levels were significantly higher in case subjects with distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSP) than in control subjects, even after adjustment for age and albumin excretion rate (AER) (785.9 vs. 574.7 pg/ml, P = 0.03). In logistic regression analysis, sHSP27 levels in the upper quartile were associated with a twofold increased odds ratio (OR) of DSP, independently of conventional risk factors, markers of inflammation, and AER (OR 2.41 [95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/58/54/1966.PMC2453614.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2938030", "abstract": "After more than 40 years of clinical use, levodopa (LD) remains the gold standard of symptomatic efficacy in the drug treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Compared with other available dopaminergic therapies, dopamine replacement with LD is associated with the greatest improvement in motor function. Long-term treatment with LD is, however, often complicated by the development of various types of motor response oscillations over the day, as well as drug-induced dyskinesias. Motor fluctuations can be improved by the addition of drugs such as entacapone or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which extend the half-life of levodopa or dopamine, respectively. However, dyskinesia control still represents a major challenge. As a result, many neurologists have become cautious when prescribing therapy with LD. This review summarizes the available evidence regarding the use of LD to treat PD and will also address the issue of LD delivery as a critical factor for the drug’s propensity to induce motor complications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4e/47/PMC2938030.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4025153", "abstract": "Glomerulonephropathy is a rare complication of Takayasu's arteritis (TA). To date, most glomerulonephropathies associated with TA show the histological feature of mesangial proliferation. Membranous glomerulonephropathy (MG) is a form of glomerulonephropathy in which the mesangial proliferation is not conspicuous and its association with TA is extremely rare. A 54-year-old man was referred to our hospital due to progressive edema in the lower limbs and nephrotic range proteinuria. Five years previously, he underwent percutaneous angioplasty for left subclavian artery stenosis. Kidney biopsy revealed stage II MG. General examination including enhanced CT scan confirmed the presence of TA. He started oral prednisolone therapy at a dose of 40 mg daily. The C-reactive protein level normalized 7 days after the prednisolone therapy. Three months later, proteinuria had remitted. Though the true relationship between MG and TA was not revealed in present case, considering the fact that complete remission of nephrotic syndrome occurred following the improvement of C-reactive protein level in response to steroid therapy, TA might be the secondary cause of MG. To our best knowledge, only two case reports described the association of MG and TA previously. Those two patients, however, also demonstrated the feature of systemic lupus erythematosus in addition to TA. This is the first case report that describes a patient who presented as MG associated with TA, but not complicated by systemic lupus erythematosus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d5/82/cru-0004-0060.PMC4025153.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC539966", "abstract": "Maintained at the Universität Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany, the Compilation of tRNA Sequences and Sequences of tRNA Genes is accessible at the URL http://www.tRNA.uni-bayreuth.de with mirror site located at the Institute of Protein Research, Pushchino, Russia (http://alpha.protres.ru/trnadbase). The compilation is a searchable, periodically updated database of currently available tRNA sequences. The present version of the database contains a new Genomic tRNA Compilation including the sequences of tRNA genes from genomic sequences published up to July 2003. It consists of about 5800 tRNA gene sequences from 111 organisms covering archaea, bacteria, higher and lower eukarya. The former Compilation of tRNA Genes (up to the end of 1998) and the updated Compilation tRNA Sequences (561 entries) are also supported by the new software. The database can be explored by using multiple search criteria and sequence templates. The database provides a service that allows to obtain statistical information on the occurrences of certain bases at given positions of the tRNA sequences. This allows phylogenic studies and search for identity elements in respect to interactions of tRNAs with various enzymes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7d/f1/PMC539966.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4560303", "abstract": "Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma (FL-HCC) is a rare variant of hepatocellular carcinoma, usually presenting in the younger population (<40 years) without underlying liver disease. Although it has a better prognosis than hepatocellular carcinoma, it has a high rate of recurrence months to years after primary resection. While sites of recurrence usually involve the liver, regional lymph nodes, peritoneum, and lung, metastasis to the pancreas is extremely rare, with only 2 other cases reported in the literature. We present the case of a 46-year-old patient with metastatic FL-HCC to the pancreas 30 years after diagnosis and 26 years since his last resected liver recurrence.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8a/f1/crg-0009-0266.PMC4560303.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3825963", "abstract": "INTRODUCTION Lower urinary tract foreign body insertions have a low incidence. The motives for insertion of a variety of objects are difficult to comprehend. This case warrants discussion given the great management challenge faced by the oddity and infrequency with which a fork is encountered in the penile urethra. PRESENTATION OF CASE A 70-year-old man presents to the Emergency Department with a bleeding urethral meatus following self-insertion of a fork into the urethra to achieve sexual gratification. Multiple retrieval methods were contemplated with success achieved via forceps traction and copious lubrication. DISCUSSION The presentation of urethral foreign bodies can vary widely, as can the type of object inserted. The most prevalent motivation for self-insertion of urethral foreign bodies is autoerotism. Motivations ought to be explored in light of possible underlying psychological or psychiatric conditions. The most appropriate surgical extraction technique can be guided by physical examination and imaging. Endoscopic removal is often successful, depending on the object's physical attributes and morphology. It is important to arrange appropriate follow-up, as late complications can occur such as urethral strictures. CONCLUSION Psychological and surgical arms encompass the management plan. Foreign body retrieval is determined by its physical attributes and morphology with the aim to minimise urothelial trauma and preserve erectile function. Essentially, endourological extraction serves the primary means of retrieval. Cystourethoscopy is important to diagnose urothelial injuries and to ensure complete removal of foreign bodies following extraction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/94/00/main.PMC3825963.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4405290", "abstract": "Mushrooms are sources of food, medicines, and agricultural means. Not much is reported in the literature about wild species of the Mediterranean flora, although many of them are traditionally collected for human consumption. The knowledge of their chemical constituents could represent a valid tool for both taxonomic and physiological characterizations. In this work, a headspace-solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) method coupled with GC-MS and GC-FID was developed to evaluate the volatile profiles of ten wild mushroom species collected in South Italy. In addition, in order to evaluate the potential of this analytical methodology for true quantitation of volatiles, samples of the cultivated species Agaricus bisporus were analyzed. The choice of this mushroom was dictated by its ease of availability in the food market, due to the consistent amounts required for SPME method development. For calibration of the main volatile compounds, the standard addition method was chosen. Finally, the assessed volatile composition of A. bisporus was monitored in order to evaluate compositional changes occurring during storage, which represents a relevant issue for such a wide consumption edible product.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ed/de/PMC4405290.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3714610", "abstract": "The selective oxidation of alcohols with molecular oxygen was efficiently completed in high conversion and selectivity using copper-bisisoquinoline-based catalysts under mild reaction condition. The effects of various parameters such as reaction temperature, reaction time, oxidant, ligands, etc, were studied. Solvent effect has been as well studied in ionic liquids [bmim]PF6, [omim]BF4 and [hmim]BF4, comparing to traditional volatile organic solvent. The use of ionic liquids was found to enhance the catalytic properties of the catalysts used.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3e/87/PMC3714610.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4448074", "abstract": "The heart is subject to multiple sources of stress. To maintain its normal function, and successfully overcome these stresses, heart muscle is equipped with fine-tuned regulatory mechanisms. Some of these mechanisms are inherent within the myocardium itself and are known as intrinsic mechanisms. Over a century ago, Otto Frank and Ernest Starling described an intrinsic mechanism by which the heart, even ex vivo, regulates its function on a beat-to-beat basis. According to this phenomenon, the higher the ventricular filling is, the bigger the stroke volume. Thus, the Frank-Starling law establishes a direct relationship between the diastolic and systolic function of the heart. To observe this biophysical phenomenon and to investigate it, technologic development has been a pre-requisite to scientific knowledge. It allowed for example to observe, at the cellular level, a Frank-Starling like mechanism and has been termed: Length Dependent Activation (LDA). In this review, we summarize some experimental systems that have been developed and are currently still in use to investigate cardiac biophysical properties from the whole heart down to the single myofibril. As a scientific support, investigation of the Frank-Starling mechanism will be used as a case study.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3c/34/PMC4448074.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3804976", "abstract": " [Purpose] This study aimed at evaluating PT interns’ performance from the perspectives of clinical and academic physical therapists (PTs). [Methods] An online questionnaire based on a modified version of the Clinical Internship Evaluation Tool (CIET) was used to evaluate PT interns’ performance in patient management skills. Assessors comprised clinical and academic PTs from Saudi Arabia. The survey aimed at assessing the competency of interns in 25 patient management skills comprising four major domains: clinical examination, patient evaluation, diagnosis and prognosis, and intervention. Assessors were also asked to rank the importance of possessing each skill and evaluating the internship programs at their facilities. A multivariate logistic regression analysis assessed whether the demographic variables between the two groups influenced their views. [Results] A total of 148 participants (112 clinical PTs and 36 academic PTs) responded to the survey. The majority of the participants agreed that interns were competent in all 25 skills. Differences between the two groups of assessors were observed for five out of the 25 skills. Interestingly, skills with the highest means were perceived as the most important skills by both groups of assessors. There was no association between sociodemographic variables and evaluation scores. [Conclusion] There were no differences observed between clinical and academic PTs in their evaluation of PT interns in 20 of the 25 clinical skills. There were indications of a need for further improvement in certain competencies and skills such as clinical examination, evaluation, diagnosis and prognosis, and intervention.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/a2/jpts-25-649.PMC3804976.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2129152", "abstract": "Creatine monohydrate has become one of the most popular ergogenic sport supplements used today. It is a nonessential dietary compound that is both endogenously synthesized and naturally ingested through diet. Creatine ingested through supplementation has been observed to be absorbed into the muscle exclusively by means of a creatine transporter, CreaT1. The major rationale of creatine supplementation is to maximize the increase within the intracellular pool of total creatine (creatine + phosphocreatine). There is much evidence indicating that creatine supplementation can improve athletic performance and cellular bioenergetics, although variability does exist. It is hypothesized that this variability is due to the process that controls both the influx and efflux of creatine across the cell membrane, and is likely due to a decrease in activity of the creatine transporter from various compounding factors. Furthermore, additional data suggests that an individual's initial biological profile may partially determine the efficacy of a creatine supplementation protocol. This brief review will examine both animal and human research in relation to the regulation and expression of the creatine transporter (CreaT). The current literature is very preliminary in regards to examining how creatine supplementation affects CreaT expression while concomitantly following a resistance training regimen. In conclusion, it is prudent that future research begin to examine CreaT expression due to creatine supplementation in humans in much the same way as in animal models.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/80/d5/PMC2129152.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5047022", "abstract": "A 61-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with an ulcerated palate mass and swelling of the right parotid gland. Incisional biopsy from the hard palate revealed an extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma, also called mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. Final diagnosis was MALT lymphoma of the parotid gland with concomitant involvement of an extremely seldom site of involvement: the hard palate. To our knowledge, this report illustrates the first case of MALT lymphoma of the hard palate and parotid gland without an underlying autoimmune disease. Rituximab-based combination regimen (R-CHOP) provided complete remission with total regression of mass lesions at the hard palate and parotid gland. At 44-month follow-up, there is no disease relapse. We adressed the manifestations and management of MALT lymphoma patients with involvement of salivary gland and oral cavity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/9b/jocmr-08-824.PMC5047022.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3113180", "abstract": "Situs inversus totalis is an uncommon anatomic anomaly that complicates diagnosis and management of acute abdominal pain. Expedient diagnosis of common intraperitoneal disease processes such as biliary colic, acute appendicitis and diverticulitis is often delayed as a result of seemingly incongruous physical findings. We present the case of a young woman with prior emergency room visits for complaints of a vague left upper quadrant abdominal pain. An ultrasound performed on her third presentation revealed visceral situs inversus with cholelithiasis and dilated intra- and extrahepatic biliary ducts. Standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy and cholangiography with a mirror-image surgical approach was performed successfully and without complication.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e0/8a/jsls-4-3-251.PMC3113180.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3269192", "abstract": "A heuristic model based on dielectric continuum theory for the long-range solvation free energy of a dipolar system possessing periodic boundary conditions (PBCs) is presented. The predictions of the model are compared to simulation results for Stockmayer fluids simulated using three different cell geometries. The boundary effects induced by the PBCs are shown to lead to anisotropies in the apparent dielectric constant and the long-range solvation free energy of as much as 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b9/b2/PMC3269192.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3658538", "abstract": "Background Tamper-resistant formulations (TRFs) of oral opioid drugs are intended to prevent certain types of abuse (eg, intranasal, intravenous). Patients raising objections to receiving a TRF may have valid concerns or may be seeking a formulation that can be more easily misused. Methods US clinicians experienced in pain management met in October 2011 to discuss common patient objections to being switched from a non-TRF opioid to a TRF of the same opioid. Retail pharmacy, health insurance, and scientific data were used to assess the potential validity of these patient objections. Results Clinical experience switching patients from a non-TRF to a TRF opioid was limited to oxycodone controlled release (CR), as it was the only TRF available at that time; knowledge of other TRFs was limited to the scientific literature. Common objections from patients included “costs more,” “not covered by insurance,” “can’t feel it working,” and “causes adverse events.” Objective retail pharmacy and insurance coverage information for oxycodone CR was accessible and indicated that patient objections were based on cost and coverage varied by insurer. Unpublished trial results (ClinicalTrials.gov) revealed that TRF oxycodone CR has a slower initial release than the non-TRF formulation, which may reduce positive subjective effects. The complaint “I can’t feel it working” may reflect lessened positive subjective effects rather than reduced analgesic efficacy. Most tolerability complaints lacked objective support. Conclusion The general process used to assess the validity of patient objections to TRF oxycodone CR may be applied to other TRFs once they become available. Publication of clinical data on TRFs would help clinicians to appropriately weigh patient concerns.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bc/7d/PMC3658538.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2695151", "abstract": "Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an often fatal disease characterized by autoimmunity and inflammation, leading to widespread vasculopathy and fibrosis. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a bioactive phospholipid in serum, is generated from lysophospholipids secreted from activated platelets in part by the action of lysophospholipase D (lysoPLD). Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), a member of the bioactive lysophospholipid family, is also released from activated platelets. Because activated platelets are a hallmark of SSc, we wanted to determine whether subjects with SSc have altered serum lysophospholipid levels or lysoPLD activity. Lysophospholipid levels were measured using mass spectrometric analysis. LysoPLD activity was determined by quantifying choline released from exogenous lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC). The major results were that serum levels of arachidonoyl (20:4)-LPA and S1P were significantly higher in SSc subjects versus controls. Furthermore, serum LPA:LPC ratios of two different polyunsaturated phospholipid molecular species, and also the ratio of all species combined, were significantly higher in SSc subjects versus controls. No significant differences were found between other lysophospholipid levels or lysoPLD activities. Elevated 20:4 LPA, S1P levels and polyunsaturated LPA:LPC ratios may be markers for and/or play a significant role in the etiology of SSc and may be future pharmacological targets for SSc treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a3/60/ijmsv06p0168.PMC2695151.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC1693768", "abstract": "Conventional, single-slice helical computed tomography (SSCT) allowed for scanning the majority of the liver during the critical portal venous phase. This was often referred to as the ‘optimal temporal window’. The introduction of current day multislice CT (MSCT) now allows us to acquire images in a much shorter time and more precisely than ever before. This yields increased conspicuity between low attenuation lesions and the enhanced normal liver parenchyma and optimal imaging for the vast majority of hepatic hypovascular metastases. Most importantly, these scanners, when compared to conventional non-helical scanners, avoid impinging upon the ‘equilibrium’ phase when tumors can become isodense/invisible. MSCT also allows for true multiphase scanning during the arterial and late arterial phases for detection of hypervascular metastases. The MSCT imaging speed has increased significantly over the past years with the introduction of 32- and 64-detector systems and will continue to increase in the future volumetric CT. This provides a number of important gains that are discussed in detail. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f5/8f/PMC1693768.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3580917", "abstract": "The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum levels of OPG, TGF-β1, and TGF-β2 and BMD decrease rate (BDR) in native Chinese women. This cross-sectional study was performed on 465 healthy native Chinese women aged 35–80 years. Serum levels of OPG, TGF-β1, and TGF-β2 were determined. BDR was measured by DXA at the posteroanterior spine, hip, and distal forearm. At all skeletal sites tested, there was a negative correlation between BDR and serum levels of both OPG (r = −0.122 to –0.230, all P = 0.007–0.000) and TGF-β2 (r = −0.100 to –0.173, all P = 0.029–0.000) and a positive correlation between BDR and serum TGF-β1 (r = 0.245 − 0.365, all P = 0.000). After adjustment for age and BMI, there were no statistically significant correlations between serum levels of OPG or TGF-β2 and BDR. However, statistically significant correlations between serum TGF-β1 and BDR at the lumbar spine and ultradistal forearm remained. Multiple linear regression stepwise analysis showed that serum OPG could explain 1.4–3.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/03/ea/PMC3580917.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4149386", "abstract": "Gyrate atrophy of the choroid and retina is a rare chorioretinal dystrophy inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. We describe the first documented case of gyrate atrophy from Australia in a 56-year-old woman with a history of previous diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa and worsening night vision in her right eye over several years. She was myopic and bilaterally pseudophakic, and fundus examination revealed pale optic discs and extensive peripheral chorioretinal atrophy exposing bare sclera bilaterally with only small islands of normal-appearing retina at each posterior pole. Visual field testing showed grossly constricted fields, blood testing showed hyperornithinemia, and further questioning revealed consanguinity between the patient’s parents. We then used the patient’s typical retinal findings of gyrate atrophy to demonstrate the potential use of ultrawide-field fundus photography and angiography in diagnosis and monitoring response in future treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/12/9b/opth-8-1561.PMC4149386.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4897049", "abstract": " Background/Purpose. To evaluate and compare the marginal leakage and shear bond strength between conventional and Papacarie techniques of caries removal in primary molars. Materials and Methods. Sixty freshly extracted human carious primary molars were randomly divided into two groups: group I—caries removal by conventional method and group II—caries removal using Papacarie. After bonded restorations, both groups were further randomly subdivided into four subgroups for marginal leakage and shear bond strength evaluation. Results. Papacarie treated teeth (46.70", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/33/PMC4897049.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3196039", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tObjective. For successful sustainable weight reduction, a multimodal program including behaviour therapy is needed. Lifestyle modification is mostly used for obesity BMI <40 kg/m2. The present study demonstrated the effect of an in-patient nondiet lifestyle program for patients with BMI >40 kg/m2 with psychological comorbidity. Research Methods and Procedere. A retrospective data analysis of 99 participants who passed the program based on moderate activity, healthy and regular food intake over metabolic rate and behaviour therapy was conducted. Results. 64 had a BMI >40 kg/m2 (mean value 49.99 ± 8.74). The relative weight reduction was −6.9 ± 3.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/ae/PMC3196039.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3259135", "abstract": "Thoracic paravertebral block is performed for the treatment of patients with chronic pain, such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and post-herpetic neuralgia. Thoracic paravertebral block can result in iatrogenic pneumothorax. Because pneumothorax can develop into medical emergencies and needle aspiration or chest tube placement may be needed, early diagnosis is very important. Recently, thoracic ultrasonography has begun to be used to diagnose pneumothorax. In addition, ultrasound-guided aspiration can be an accurate and safe technique for treatment of pneumothorax, as the needle position can be followed in real time. We report a case of iatrogenic pneumothorax following thoracic paravertebral block for the treatment of chronic pain due to CRPS, treated successfully by ultrasound-guided aspiration.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/63/56/kjpain-25-33.PMC3259135.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3149971", "abstract": "The protein transduction technique enables the direct delivery of biologically active material into mammalian cells [for review see 1,2]. For this one can make use of the translocating ability of so-called cell penetrating peptides (CPPs), also designated as protein transduction domains (PTDs). The TAT-CPP derived from the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Tat (trans-activator of transcription) protein has been widely used. The positively charged TAT promotes cell permeability thereby overcoming the barriers of the cellular membrane by endocytosis or/and direct membrane penetration2. In combination with a nuclear localization signal (NLS) fusion proteins are able to enter the nucleus exhibiting functionality. Our video presentation demonstrates, as an exemplification for the engineering of cell-permeable proteins, the construction, production and application of a cell-permeable version of the DNA-modifying enzyme Cre. Cre is a site-specific recombinase that is able to recognize and recombine 34 base pair loxP sites in mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo. Therefore the Cre/loxP system is widely used to conditionally induce mutations in the genome of living cells3,4. The delivery of active Cre recombinase to cells, however, represents a limitation. We describe the pSESAME vector system, which allows a direct insertion of the gene-of-interest and provides a platform to rapidly clone different domains and tags used within the vector in a convenient and standardized manner. Rearranging of the different tags has been shown to modify the biochemical properties of the fusion proteins providing a possibility to achieve higher yield and better solubility. We demonstrate how to express and purify recombinant cell-permeant proteins in and from E. coli. The functionality of the recombinant Cre protein is finally validated in cell culture by assessing its intracellular recombinase activity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/53/jove-34-1627.PMC3149971.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2798984", "abstract": "The mechanistic study of glaucoma pathogenesis has shifted to seeking to understand the effects of immune responses on retinal ganglion cell damage and protection. Cytokines are the hormonal factors that mediate most of the biological effects in both the immune and nonimmune systems. CD4-expressing T helper cells are a major source of cytokine production and regulation. Type 1 helper T (Th1) cells are characterized by the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-12, IL-23, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha while type 2 helper T (Th2) cells are characterized by the production of IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, and IL-10. The balance of Th1/Th2 cytokine production influences many pathological processes and plays both causative and protective roles in neuronal damage. Growing evidence indicates that imbalances of Th1/Th2 cytokine production are involved in neural damage or protection in many neurological diseases. In this review, we discuss the possible roles of Th1/Th2 cytokine production and imbalance of Th1/Th2 cytokines in retina, especially glaucomatous optic neuropathy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e1/09/12177_2009_Article_9034.PMC2798984.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4650884", "abstract": "Background Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (Hunter's syndrome) is an X-linked chromosomal storage disorder due to deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme iduronate-2-sulfatase with patients rarely living till adulthood. Failure to identify patients early could contribute to an increased morbidity as identified in this case report. Case Details An eight year old patient with Hunter's syndrome identified five years after disease onset with severe cardiovascular complications exemplifies the challenges faced in resource-limited countries towards making diagnosis and treatment of rare conditions. Elevated urinary glycosaminoglycans levels or a strong clinical suspicion of Hunter's syndrome, as identified in the index case, is a prerequisite for enzyme activity testing. Urinary mucopolysaccharide(MPS) level was 69.6mg/mmol(normal range is 0.0 – 11.6mg/mmol), and the confirming MPS electrophoresis analysis showed elevated heparan sulphate in the urine sample. Enzyme activity testing, with absent or very low iduronate-2-sulfatase activity, is diagnostic. However, the scarce availability and high cost of these tests is another constraint in making a diagnosis. Conclusion Identification and management of mucopolysaccharidosis type II pose a problem in resource-constrained countries due to late presentation, lack of facility for diagnosis and treatment, cost and expertise required for the management.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/9c/8d/PMC4650884.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4061163", "abstract": "Purpose This study describes a novel subtype of retinal detachment occurring in eyes with pathological myopia associated with type 3 posterior staphyloma and discusses the management options. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the case notes of seven patients who presented with unilateral symptomatic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment secondary to nasal juxtapapillary microholes. Results All seven patients had pathological myopia and an associated peripapillary type 3 posterior staphyloma. They all presented with symptoms of acute posterior vitreous detachment and had progressive retinal detachment. All cases were discovered to have a single juxtapapillary hole less than 1 disc diameter from the optic-nerve head, within areas of nasal chorioretinal atrophy. The microholes were identified intraoperatively in six of seven cases, with one case identified preoperatively on optical coherence tomography. In the four most recent cases, successful retinal reattachment was achieved with vitrectomy and C2F6 gas tamponade. The remaining three cases were managed with vitrectomy and silicone oil. Conclusion Seven patients with pathological myopia, type 3 posterior staphyloma, and progressive retinal detachment secondary to juxtapapillary microholes are presented in this paper. High clinical suspicion is required to identify these breaks. Successful retinal reattachment with pars plana vitrectomy and long-acting gas is possible.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c1/ba/opth-8-1089.PMC4061163.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2732485", "abstract": "Specimens from a patient of the 2000 Israel West Nile virus epidemic were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Products corresponding to E, NS3, and NS5 sequences were amplified from cerebellar but not from cortical samples. Phylogenetic analyses indicated a closer relationship of this isolate to 1996 Romanian and 1999 Russian than to 1998-99 Israeli or 1999 New York isolates.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2a/1d/PMC2732485.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4927764", "abstract": "Considering that adipose tissue (AT) is an endocrine organ, it can influence whole body metabolism. Excessive energy storage leads to the dysregulation of adipocytes, which in turn induces abnormal secretion of adipokines, triggering metabolic syndromes such as obesity, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms behind adipocyte dysregulation could help to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Our protocol describes methods for evaluating the molecular mechanism affected by hypoxic conditions of the AT, which correlates with adipocyte apoptosis in adult mice. This protocol describes how to analyze AT in vivo through gene expression profiling as well as histological analysis of adipocyte differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis during hypoxia exposure, ascertained through staining of hypoxic cells or HIF-1α protein. Furthermore, in vitro analysis of adipocyte differentiation and its responses to various stimuli completes the characterization of the molecular pathways behind possible adipocyte dysfunction leading to metabolic syndromes. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bf/df/jove-112-53822.PMC4927764.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2709037", "abstract": "A 20-year-old woman was involved in a traffic accident while riding a motorcycle. The vision in her right eye was severely reduced. At the first examination, the eyelids of her right eye were severely swollen, and the eye could barely be seen. The fundus was not visible. She had no light perception in her vision. Computed tomography revealed a severe blow-out fracture in her right eye. Surgery was immediately performed to correct the fracture and the eye globe was replaced in the orbit. On the fourth postoperative day, the right fundus was visible and a cherry-red spot and milky-white edema were seen. Fluorescein angiography showed an arterial filling defect. Four months later, her visual acuity was light perception. Our case shows that a central retinal artery occlusion can be a complication of a blow-out fracture of the lower orbital wall and can lead to severe visual loss even with early surgical repair.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/01/31/PMC2709037.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3087890", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tBackground. Cooling has emerged as a therapeutic option in critically ill patients (especially after cardiac resuscitation) and might also have a negative dromotropic effect in atrial fibrillation. We sought to determine the impact of cooling on electrophysiologic properties of Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts. Methods and Results. In 20 isolated Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts, the temperature of the tissue bath was changed between 17 and 42°C. With decreasing temperature, significant increases of the spontaneous sinus cycle length, decreases of the mean ventricular heart rate during atrial fibrillation, and relevant increases of atrial and ventricular refractory periods were observed (ANOVA P < .01). Conclusions. Cardiac hypothermia leads to a significant drop of mean ventricular heart rate during atrial fibrillation. Negative chronotropy and dromotropy induced by moderate cardiac hypothermia might be a feasible therapeutic approach in patients with hemodynamically relevant tachyarrhythmias in a CCU/ICU setting.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/5f/PMC3087890.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3409548", "abstract": " Aims. To observe the rate of conversion from impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) to diabetes following lifestyle modification (LSM) or a combination of lifestyle and metformin compared to a control population with 18-month followup. Methods. Forty screening camps were organized, which 5000 people attended. Around 2300 persons filled the questionnaire and 1825 subjects were identified as high risk. Of 1739 subjects who took the oral glucose tolerance test, 317 subjects were identified as IGT. The 317 IGT subjects were randomized into three groups: control group was given standard medical advice, LSM group was given intensive lifestyle modification advice, while LSM + drug group was given intensive lifestyle advice and metformin 500 mg twice daily. Results. At the end, 273 subjects completed the study, giving a compliance rate of 86", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d3/da/PMC3409548.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3894766", "abstract": "Obesity has been linked to higher inflammatory status and periodontal breakdown. Objective  The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of obesity on alveolar bone loss in experimental periodontitis in rats.  Material and Methods  Twenty-four female Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups: obese (n=13), which were fed with \"cafeteria diet\" (CAF diet - high amounts of sucrose and fat) for 90 days in order to gain weight, and non-obese (n=11) regularly fed rats. Ligature-induced experimental periodontitis was created in all animals. Body weight differed statistically between obese and non-obese groups (277.59 and 223.35 g, respectively) at the moment of the ligature placement. Morphometric registration of alveolar bone loss was carried out after 30 days of ligature placement to determine the effect of obesity on the progression of experimental periodontitis.  Results  Intra-group comparisons showed significantly higher alveolar bone loss mean values in maxillary teeth with ligature (P<0.05). Alveolar bone loss [mean (SD), mm] was not statistically different between obese and non-obese groups [0.71 (0.09) and 0.65 (0.07) mm, respectively]. However, when palatal sides are analyzed separately, obese group presented significantly higher alveolar bone loss (P<0.05) as compared to non-obese [0.68 (0.12) and 0.53 (0.13) mm, respectively].  Conclusions  In spite of the weak differences, it is possible to conclude that the progression of alveolar bone loss in ligature-induced periodontitis can be potentially influenced by body weight in rats.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5e/97/jaos-20-02-0218.PMC3894766.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3433133", "abstract": " Background. Glycemic control following total pancreatectomy (TP) has been thought to be difficult to manage. Diffuse intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) is a potentially curable precursor to pancreatic adenocarcinoma, best treated by TP. Objective. Compare glycemic control in patients undergoing TP for IPMN to patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM). Design/Setting. Retrospective cohort. Outcome Measure. Hemoglobin A1C(HbA1C) at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after TP. In the control group, baseline was defined as 6 months prior to the first HbA1c measure. Results. Mean HgbA1C at each point of interest was similar between TP and type I DM patients (6 months (7.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b6/3c/PMC3433133.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2575582", "abstract": "Two hundred seventy thousand people in the US and 450,000 people in Europe experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year. Perceived poor prognosis and expense of care of patients resuscitated from cardiac arrest remain barriers to implementation of effective therapies. In this issue of Critical Care, Graf and colleagues have provided a programmatic evaluation of the costs and consequences of intensive care after resuscitation from cardiac arrest. Thirty-one percent of the cohort that survived to be cared for in the intensive care setting were still alive 5 years after hospital discharge. The health-related quality of life of this group of 5-year survivors was similar to that of matched healthy controls, and the cost per quality-adjusted life year gained was similar to or less than the cost of other commonly used medical interventions. We need to change the culture of resuscitation and recognize that cardiac arrest is a treatable condition that is associated with acceptable quality of life and costs of care after resuscitation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3b/79/PMC2575582.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3463178", "abstract": "The study aimed to describe periodontal health status and its association with individual and contextual factors among 12-year-old schoolchildren in a midwest Brazilian capital city. This cross-sectional study included data from an oral health survey carried out in 2010 in the city of Goiania, Brazil (n = 2, 075) and secondary data obtained from the local health authority. Data were collected through oral clinical examinations and interviews. For assessment of periodontal status two components of the community periodontal index (CPI) were used: calculus and bleeding after probing. Dependent variable was presence of any periodontal condition. Independent individual variables were the children's sex and color/race, and their mother's level of schooling. Contextual variables were related to the schools (type and existence of toothbrushing program) and its geographic location in the health districts. Rao-Scott test and multilevel Poisson analysis were performed. The prevalence of calculus and/or bleeding was 7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/59/PMC3463178.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3191740", "abstract": "Occurrence of different viruses in acute respiratory tract infections of Nigerian children was examined. Respiratory swabs were collected from 246 children referred to hospital clinics because of acute respiratory symptoms from February through May 2009. Validated real-time RT-PCR techniques revealed nucleic acids of at least one virus group in 189 specimens (77", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4f/ec/PMC3191740.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4437331", "abstract": "Understanding the neural mechanisms underlying brain dysfunction induced by amyloid beta-protein (Aβ) represents one of the major challenges for Alzheimer's disease (AD) research. The most evident symptom of AD is a severe decline in cognition. Cognitive processes, as any other brain function, arise from the activity of specific cell assemblies of interconnected neurons that generate neural network dynamics based on their intrinsic and synaptic properties. Thus, the origin of Aβ-induced cognitive dysfunction, and possibly AD-related cognitive decline, must be found in specific alterations in properties of these cells and their consequences in neural network dynamics. The well-known relationship between AD and alterations in the activity of several neural networks is reflected in the slowing of the electroencephalographic (EEG) activity. Some features of the EEG slowing observed in AD, such as the diminished generation of different network oscillations, can be induced in vivo and in vitro upon Aβ application or by Aβ overproduction in transgenic models. This experimental approach offers the possibility to study the mechanisms involved in cognitive dysfunction produced by Aβ. This type of research may yield not only basic knowledge of neural network dysfunction associated with AD, but also novel options to treat this modern epidemic.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/62/a0/PMC4437331.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4589716", "abstract": "Background: Providing an apical stop in open apex roots is one of the endodontic challenges. The aim of present study was to compare the surface hardness of both mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement at different setting situations. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 freshly extracted human teeth with a single root and normal apex and no obvious caries or curvatures were selected. The teeth were sectioned horizontally from the cement enamel junction and 2 mm above the apex. Standard technique was administered for cleaning and shaping of the canals. Open apex root canal was prepared by using Peso reamer. The prepared teeth were randomly divided into four groups in which two groups were filled by MTA and the other groups were filled by CEM. White MTA and CEM cement plugs were prepared and condensed up to the apical end. In two groups, moistened paper point was placed in the canals and in the other group dried paper points was used. Vickers test was done to evaluate the microhardness and the collected data were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis and three-way ANOVA tests using SPSS software version 18 at a significant level of 0.05. Results: The highest and lowest surface hardness was observed in CEM group at dried condition with 4 mm thickness indentation (145.10 ± 7.60 kg/mm2) and moist MTA group indented at 8 mm thickness (111.25 ± 5.37 kg/mm2). However, no significant difference was noticed (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Humidity condition might not influence the microhardness properties of both MTA and CEM cement apical plugs at different tested indentation thickness.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/17/c8/JIOH-7-36.PMC4589716.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4403619", "abstract": "Tobacco use is dramatically increasing among youth. Growing attention has been addressed towards possible predictors of smoking in such a population. We evaluated a sample of Italian adolescents to verify whether adults and peers might influence their smoking status. Cross-sectional study was conducted in 16 schools of North Italy. Data were collected from 2001 to 2010 by means of a self-administered questionnaire on sociodemographic data and individual/social possible predictors of smoking. 2,444 students (56.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/80/PMC4403619.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3170025", "abstract": "Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the fracture resistance of retreated roots using different rotary retreatment systems. Methods: Forty eight freshly extracted human canine teeth with single straight root canals were instrumented sequentially increasing from size 30 to a size 55 using K-files whit a stepback technique. The teeth were randomly divided into three experimental and one control groups of 12 specimens each. The root canals were filled using cold lateral compaction of gutta-percha and AH Plus (Dentsply Detrey, Konstanz, Germany) sealer in experimental groups. Removal of gutta-percha was performed with the following devices and techniques: ProTaper Universal (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland), R-Endo (Micro-Mega, Besançon, France), and Mtwo (Sweden     Martina, Padova, Italy) rotary retreatment systems. Control group specimens were only instrumented, not filled or retreated. The specimens were then mounted in copper rings, were filled with a self-curing polymethylmethacrylate resin, and the force required to cause vertical root fracture was measured using a universal testing device. The force of fracture of the roots was recorded and the results in the various groups were compared. Statistical analysis was accomplished by one-way ANOVA and a post hoc Tukey tests. Results: There were statistically significant differences between the control and experimental groups (P<.05). However, there were no significant differences among the experimental groups. Conclusions: Based on the results, all rotary retreatment techniques used in this in vitro study produced similar root weakness.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/95/PMC3170025.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2817807", "abstract": "Translation initiation is a highly regulated process that exerts a strong influence on the posttranscriptional control of gene expression. Two alternative mechanisms govern translation initiation in eukaryotic mRNAs, the cap-dependent initiation mechanism operating in most mRNAs, and the internal ribosome entry site (IRES)-dependent mechanism, first discovered in picornaviruses. IRES elements are highly structured RNA sequences that, in most instances, require specific proteins for recruitment of the translation machinery. Some of these proteins are eukaryotic initiation factors. In addition, RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play a key role in internal initiation control. RBPs are pivotal regulators of gene expression in response to numerous stresses, including virus infection. This review discusses recent advances on riboproteomic approaches to identify IRES transacting factors (ITAFs) and the relationship between RNA-protein interaction and IRES activity, highlighting the most relevant features on picornavirus and hepatitis C virus IRESs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/69/ca/PMC2817807.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5187641", "abstract": "Background: Increasing global health efforts have focused on preventing pregnancy-related maternal deaths, but the factors that contribute to maternal deaths in specific high-burden nations are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to identify factors that influence the occurrence of maternal deaths in a regional maternity hospital in Kuando Kubango province of Angola. Methods: The study was a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of case notes of all maternal deaths and deliveries that were recorded from 2010 to 2014. The information collected included data on pregnancy, labor and post-natal period retrieved from case notes and the delivery register. Results: During the period under study, a total of 7,158 live births were conducted out of which 131 resulted in maternal death with an overall maternal mortality ratio of 1,830 per 100,000 live births. The causes of death and their importance was relatively similar over the period reviewed. The direct obstetric causes accounted for 51", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/9e/IJMA-5-61.PMC5187641.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3134059", "abstract": "We report the case of a video capsule endoscope lodged within a Zenker diverticulum. The system that was equipped with a real-time viewer showed an unchanging image unlike esophageal or gastric mucosa, suggesting that the capsule was elsewhere. The presence of cervical discomfort suggested video capsule retention in a Zenker diverticulum. The capsule was removed endoscopically and reinserted using a hood-assisted endoscope and the procedure was completed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/86/47/crg0005-0361.PMC3134059.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2935622", "abstract": "Replication of anatomic shape is a significant challenge in developing implants for regenerative medicine. This has lead to significant interest in using medical imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography to design tissue engineered constructs. Implementation of medical imaging and computer aided design in combination with technologies for rapid prototyping of living implants enables the generation of highly reproducible constructs with spatial resolution up to 25 μm. In this paper, we review the medical imaging modalities available and a paradigm for choosing a particular imaging technique. We also present fabrication techniques and methodologies for producing cellular engineered constructs. Finally, we comment on future challenges involved with image guided tissue engineering and efforts to generate engineered constructs ready for implantation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/08/bf/PMC2935622.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3898635", "abstract": "This work tests the hypothesis that language skill depends on the ability to incorporate streams of sound into an accurate temporal framework. We tested the ability of young English-speaking adults to process single time intervals and rhythmic sequences of such intervals, hypothesized to be relevant to the analysis of the temporal structure of language. The data implicate a specific role for the ability to process beat-based temporal regularities in phonological language and literacy skill.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0e/7f/PMC3898635.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5396972", "abstract": "Background and objectives Major abdominal cancer surgeries are associated with significant perioperative mortality and morbidity due to myocardial ischemia and infarction. This study examined the effect of perioperative patient controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) on occurrence of ischemic cardiac injury in ischemic patients undergoing major abdominal cancer surgery. Patients and methods One hundred and twenty patients (American Society of Anesthesiologists grade II and III) of either sex were scheduled for elective upper gastrointestinal cancer surgeries. Patients were allocated randomly into two groups (60 patients each) to receive, besides general anesthesia: continuous intra and postoperative intravenous (IV) infusion with fentanyl for 72 h postoperatively (patient controlled intravenous analgesia [PCIA] group) or continuous intra and postoperative epidural infusion with bupivacaine 0.125", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a7/39/jpr-10-887.PMC5396972.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4045347", "abstract": "A series of five cases were presented in which similar fractures of the shaft of the humerus occurred during the hand grenade throwing activity during the military education. All the fractures were in the 1/3 distal humeral shaft, and butterfly fragments were accompanying in two soldiers. All the fractures healed without any clinical complications with conservative treatment. The mechanism of the fracture is discussed with reference to the recent literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/49/56/PMC4045347.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2275135", "abstract": "We have explored the electromechanical properties of DNA by using an electric field to force single hairpin molecules to translocate through a synthetic pore in a silicon nitride membrane. We observe a threshold voltage for translocation of the hairpin through the pore that depends sensitively on the diameter and the secondary structure of the DNA. The threshold for a diameter 1.5 < d < 2.3 nm is V > 1.5 V, which corresponds to the force required to stretch the stem of the hairpin, according to molecular dynamics simulations. On the other hand, for 1.0 < d < 1.5 nm, the threshold voltage collapses to V < 0.5 V because the stem unzips with a lower force than required for stretching. The data indicate that a synthetic nanopore can be used like a molecular gate to discriminate between the secondary structures in DNA.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/29/cc/gkm1017.PMC2275135.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3525930", "abstract": "Background and aims  Dental practitioners are prone to occupational risk of infection. This can be prevented in part by wearing gloves. However, for this to be effective, gloves should be intact during the entire course of dental procedure. Leaky surgical latex gloves have been seen in 0.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/69/5c/PMC3525930.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC1065036", "abstract": "Tracheostomy is one of the most frequent procedures carried out in critically ill patients with major advantages compared to translaryngeal endotracheal intubation such as reduced laryngeal anatomical alterations, reduced inspiratory load, better patient's tolerance and nursing. Thus, tracheostomy can enhance patient's care in patients who need prolonged mechanical ventilation and/or control of airways. The right timing of tracheostomy remains controversial, however it appears that early tracheostomy in selected severe trauma, burn and neurological patients could be effective to reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation intensive care stay and costs. Percutaneous tracheostomy techniques are becoming the procedure of choice in the majority of the cases, since they are safe, easy and quick, and complications are minor. However, percutaneous tracheostomies should be always performed by experienced physicians to avoid unnecessary additional complications. It is not clear the superiority of one percutaneous technique compared to another, but experience of the operator and clinical individual anatomical, physiopathological characteristics of the patient should be always considered. We believe that the operator should have experience of at least one intrusive and one extrusive percutaneous technique. The general \"optimal\" tracheostomy technique and timing do not exist, but tracheostomy should be targeted on the patient's individual clinical characteristics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a2/98/PMC1065036.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4075813", "abstract": "Pulmonary artery dissection is a fatal complication of long-standing pulmonary hypertension, manifesting as acute, stabbing chest pain, progressive dyspnea, cardiogenic shock, or sudden death. Its incidence has been underestimated, and therapeutic options are still scarce. In patients with pulmonary hypertension, new chest pain, acute chest pain, or cardiogenic shock should raise the suspicion of pulmonary artery dissection, which can result in sudden death. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3f/12/1806-3713-jbpneu-39-02-00238.PMC4075813.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4800106", "abstract": " Aims. This study was aimed at knowing the prevalence of vancomycin and high level aminoglycoside resistance in enterococcal strains among clinical samples. Study Design. It was an investigational study. Place and Duration of Study. It was conducted on 100 Enterococcus isolates, in the Department of Microbiology, Pt. BDS PGIMS, Rohtak, over a period of six months from July to December 2014. Methodology. Clinical specimens including urine, pus, blood, semen, vaginal swab, and throat swab were processed and Enterococcus isolates were identified by standard protocols. Antibiotic sensitivity testing of enterococci was performed using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Results. High level gentamicin resistance (HLGR) was more common in urine samples (41.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/24/79/PMC4800106.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3110298", "abstract": "Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is an unfamiliar term to anesthesiologists, and this is characterized by neurologic symptoms that include mental change, headache, seizure and visual disturbance and also abnormal neuroimaging finding. A 71-year-old female patient was operated on for posterior decompression and total laminectomy under general anesthesia for the spinal stenosis. After the operation, she developed generalized tonic-clonic seizure and a stuporous mentality in the recovery room. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed swelling and increased signal intensity at the deep gray nuclei, cerebral cortex and cerebellum. After one week, she returned to an alert mentality and then she was diagnosed with PRES. She was discharged without any neurologic deficit on postoperative day 20. This report describes our experience with PRES after spinal surgery was performed under general anesthesia on a suspected untreated hypertensive patient.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/42/93/kjae-60-369.PMC3110298.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4623167", "abstract": "Objective To investigate the effect of different pillow heights on the slope of the cervicothoracic spine segments. Methods A prospective analysis of data from 16 asymptomatic adults (aged 20 to 30 years) was carried out. Exclusion criteria were history of injury or accident to the cervicothoracic spine, cervicothoracic spine surgery, or treatment for neck symptoms. We used three different pillow heights: flat (0 cm), 10-cm, and 20-cm pillows. Cervical sagittal parameters, measured with radiography, included; C2-7 Cobb's angle, T1 slope (T1S), thoracic inlet angle (TIA), and neck tilt (NT). Statistical analyses were performed using Spearman correlation coefficients. Results As the height of the pillow increased, the T1S     C2-7 Cobb's angle increased while the NT values tended to decrease. The TIA values, however, remained constant. Additionally, there was a statistically significant sex difference in T1S with the 0-cm pillow (p=0.01), and in NT with the 20-cm pillow (p=0.01). Conclusion From the data obtained in this study, we recommend that the most suitable pillow height is 10 cm, considering the normal cervical lordosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5d/35/kjs-12-135.PMC4623167.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4333274", "abstract": " Objectives. Studies comparing outcome of single-99mTc-methoxyisobutylisonitrile (99mTc-sestamibi) and dual-tracer 99mTc-sestamibi scintigraphy in combination with 123I before primary surgery of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) are scarce. Methods. We compared 99mTc-sestamibi/123I and 99mTc-sestamibi in a single-centre retrospective series of 269 PHPT patients. The results were related to laboratory, surgical and histological findings. Results. 99mTc-sestamibi/123I and 99mTc-sestamibi were positive in 206 (76.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e6/89/PMC4333274.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4091038", "abstract": "Research efforts in biology increasingly require use of methodologies that enable high-volume collection of high-resolution data. A challenge laboratories can face is the development and attainment of these methods. Observation of phenotypes in a process of interest is a typical objective of research labs studying gene function and this is often achieved through image capture. A particular process that is amenable to observation using imaging approaches is the corrective growth of a seedling root that has been displaced from alignment with the gravity vector. Imaging platforms used to measure the root gravitropic response can be expensive, relatively low in throughput, and/or labor intensive. These issues have been addressed by developing a high-throughput image capture method using inexpensive, yet high-resolution, flatbed scanners. Using this method, images can be captured every few minutes at 4,800 dpi. The current setup enables collection of 216 individual responses per day. The image data collected is of ample quality for image analysis applications.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a5/77/jove-83-50878.PMC4091038.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5270396", "abstract": " Antherina suraka Boisduval (Saturniidae, Lepidoptera) produces a silken cocoon that has been the focus of efforts to create a commercial wild silk industry in Madagascar. In this study, structural and mechanical properties of the cocoon of A. suraka from two sites were measured and compared to the cocoon of Bombyx mori L. (Bombycidae, Lepidoptera) the world's most common source for silk. Results of environmental scanning electron microscopy and mechanical testing showed that the silk sheet of A. suraka cocoon is less compact, with greater thickness and lower tensile strength and stiffness than that of B. mori. Confirming these results, stiffness and cell and thread density were found to be negatively correlated with thickness, and the cell and thread volumes were positively correlated with thickness. Antherina suraka showed no major differences between silk sheets from Kirindy and Isalo sites in either structural or mechanical properties, except for mean cell volume, which was greater in cocoons from Kirindy. Comparison between the two layers forming the cocoon showed that the inner layer has greater elastic modulus, denser silk distribution and lower porosity. Cocoons from both Kirindy and Isalo are suitable for sericulture. Although the inner layer of cocoon silk is of higher quality than the outer layer, the fact that both layers are of great but lower tensile strength than B. mori silk suggests that the current practice of sewing the two layers together for making one single layer fabric should be continued in efforts to produce a commercially viable product.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0d/df/iew112.PMC5270396.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3212417", "abstract": "Background: Studies on the effect of a low intensity coordination exercise on the elderly with limited mobility are sparse. This prospective study attempted to compare the effectiveness of a customized coordination exercise and a strength exercise in improving the cognitive functioning and physical mobility on the elderly. Methods: Participants from two centers for the elderly were allocated to practice either an 8-week coordination training (CT) program or an 8-week towel exercise (TE) program. The Chinese Mini-Mental State Examination and Chinese Dementia Rating Scale (CDRS) were used to measure cognitive functioning of participants, and Timed Up-and-Go test for physical mobility. These assessments were administered before and after the program. Results: Paired t-tests showed that the CDRS scores of the CT group improved significantly from 114.8 at pre-test to 119.3 after training (P = 0.045). The CDRS scores of the TE group also improved from 114.9 at pre-test to 116.9 after training. Conclusion: Findings from this prospective study demonstrated that low-intensity level mind-body exercise could be beneficial to the cognitive functioning of older adults.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5d/ce/PMC3212417.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2807053", "abstract": "Purpose To describe the activities and time spent by casemanagers for home-dwelling people with dementia and their family caregivers in a western region of the Netherlands. Theory People with dementia and their family caregivers go through several transitions in disease, care and social roles. Integrated care for this group is important. In the Dutch Guideline for Integrated Dementia Care (2008), the casemanager is put forward as the vital link in the health-care supply chain for demented people and their families. Methods During six months, six casemanagers registered the frequency and content of their contacts with a total of 40 home-dwelling elderly and their families. Results and conclusions On average, casemanagers had contact with their clients once every five weeks, mostly with the family caregiver alone (by phone) or with the client-caregiver dyad (home visit). The mean contact time was about 50 minutes. The most frequent interventions offered by the casemanager are: monitoring (keeping track), listening, and giving moral support, practical advice and information about services and procedures. Casemanagers spend most of their working time linking health care services with the client-caregiver's needs. They spend about 5–6 hours per month at non-client related activities, including education/studying, participation in dementia support groups and networking. Discussion Case management includes monitoring, counselling and linking of care to stimulate tailor-made care that meets the needs of the client-caregiver dyad. A caseload of around 50 clients per FTE casemanager seems reasonable.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/dc/PMC2807053.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3461621", "abstract": "Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) refers either to a syndromic or to a nonsyndromic group of conditions with varied etiology and complex clinical features, including multiple congenital contractures in different body areas. Its etiology still remains unclear but generally any cause that leads to reduced fetal movement may lead to congenital contractures and in severe cases to fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS).  It affects approximately 1 in 2-3000 live births with an approximately equal gender ratio. There are many known subgroups of AMC differing in signs, symptoms, and causes. The primary diagnosis is made when a lack of mobility and an abnormal position is noted in routine ultrasound scanning. Early diagnosis, prenatal evaluation, and further surveillance via image scanning (ultrasound and MRI) give the opportunity for family counseling concerning neonatal morbidity and mortality and labor or delivery planning. Better understanding of the ultrasound findings and the etiology of this clinical situation offers the opportunity for careful prenatal assessment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6f/e7/PMC3461621.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2831459", "abstract": "Acinar cell pancreatic carcinoma is a rare solid malignant neoplasm. Recent review of the literature showed occasional cases with papillary or papillocystic growth patterns, ranging from 2 to 5 cm in diameter. We report a large 10 cm pancreatic tumor with papillocystic pathology features involving the pancreatic head. The growth pattern of these tumors could be mistaken for intraductal papillary mucinous tumors or other pancreatic cystic  neoplasms.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b0/fb/PMC2831459.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3782585", "abstract": "Livedoid vasculopathy (LV) is characterized by a long history of ulceration of the feet and legs and histopathology indicating a thrombotic process. We report a case of acute central retinal artery occlusion in a 32-year-old woman who had LV. She showed no discernible laboratory abnormalities such as antiphospholipid antibodies and no history of cerebrovascular accidents. Attempted intra-arterial thrombolysis showed no effect in restoring retinal arterial perfusion or vision. The central retinal artery occlusion accompanied by LV in this case could be regarded as a variant form of Sneddon's syndrome, which is characterized by livedo reticularis and cerebrovascular accidents.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2b/cb/kjo-27-376.PMC3782585.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3413980", "abstract": " Alstonia boonei De Wild is a herbal medicinal plant of West African origin, popularly known as God's tree or “Onyame dua”. Within West Africa, it is considered as sacred in some forest communities; consequently the plant parts are not eaten. The plant parts have been traditionally used for its antimalarial, aphrodisiac, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and antipyretic activities, which have also been proved scientifically. The plant parts are rich in various bioactive compounds such as echitamidine, Nα-formylechitamidine, boonein, loganin, lupeol, ursolic acid, and β-amyrin among which the alkaloids and triterpenoids form a major portion. The present paper aims at investigating the main research undertaken on the plant in order to provide sufficient baseline information for future work and for commercial exploitation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0f/ee/PMC3413980.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4448643", "abstract": "The successful treatment of liver tumours is more likely if they are found early. The use of high-resolution CT and MRI with contrast enhancement allows more sub-centimetre liver lesions to be detected, but some small tumours remain occult even at surgery with intra-operative sonography. An indication of the accuracy of imaging in detecting liver metastases may be given by the proportion of lesions found which are under 1–2 cm in size. The characterisation of small lesions remains problematic on CT, with benign and malignant tumours showing overlapping imaging features. However, with appropriate use of chemical shift, heavy T2 weighting, gadolinium enhancement, and liver-specific contrast agents, a carefully tailored MRI examination will usually produce diagnostic appearances.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/57/61/PMC4448643.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3570928", "abstract": "Central noradrenergic pathways are involved in feeding and cardiovascular control, physiological processes altered by obesity. The present studies determined how high-fat feeding and body weight gain alter the sensitivity to the feeding suppression and neural activation to a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, nisoxetine. Acute administration of nisoxetine (saline: 0, 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg; IP) resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in the 24 h refeeding response in male Sprague Dawley rats maintained on standard chow. In a similar fashion, nisoxetine resulted in reductions in blood pressure and a compensatory increase in heart rate. From these studies, the 3 mg/kg dose was subthreshold. In a separate experiment, however, 10 wk exposure to a high-fat diet (60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3a/0e/PMC3570928.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5015497", "abstract": "Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the validity of serum uric acid (UA) in prediction of mortality among patients in the emergency department. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective cohort study which was conducted during 2014. In this study, 120 critically ill patients who required Intensive Care Unit care services were included. For evaluation of severity of the disease, mortality in emergency department score (MEDS) in the first 24 h of admission, the requirement of using mechanical ventilation, taking vasopressor during the hospitalization time and severity of the disease based on MEDS score were measured. The patients were divided into two groups: Patients with serum UA level lower than 7.3 mg/dl and patients with serum UA level of equal or more than 7.3 mg/dl. For comparison of the mortality rate in groups, Chi-square and fisher exact tests were applied. Results: In patients, who needed mechanical ventilation, average of serum UA was 7.82 ± 2.82; however, in the patients who did not need mechanical ventilation this amount was 6.16 ± 2.7, a difference was statically significant. We found a statically meaningful difference between serum UA level with requiring mechanical ventilation and the predictive level of UA 6.95 ± 0.73 (F = 8.52; P ≤ 0.004). In the evaluation of MEDS, most patients with serum UA levels lower than 7.3 mg/dl had lower MEDS points (on average 4.6 ± 3.21) in compared to patients with serum UA level higher than 7.3 mg/dl (on average 12 ± 2.99). This difference was found to be statistically significant which indicates the patients whose serum UA was 7.3 mg/dl or higher, were at higher risk of mortality. Conclusion: The serum UA level in the 1st day of hospitalization of a critically ill patient is not an independent indicative factor in relation to mortality. High level of UA reveals critical status of the patient and requires mechanical ventilation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/30/JLP-9-42.PMC5015497.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3592745", "abstract": "Capstone courses are becoming increasingly visible on college and university campuses. In this paper, we describe a capstone experience for undergraduate students pursuing our neuroscience concentration. The course is intended to provide an in-depth and interdisciplinary examination of contemporary topics in the field of neuroscience, and is designed for students who have completed the majority of requirements for the concentration. We describe the evolution of such a course, the goals and objectives of the course, and offer a workable model for similar courses in the context of a liberal arts institution. We summarize the positive aspects of such a course, describe the challenges involved in creating a course of this nature, and offer suggestions for successful similar capstone courses in Neuroscience.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bc/6e/PMC3592745.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4944046", "abstract": " Objective. To explore how the perceptions and experiences of working with risky drinkers change over time among primary health care staff during a systematic implementation project. Methods. Qualitative focus group interviews took place before and after the implementation of the project. Results. The staff displayed a positive change during the implementation period with regard to awareness, knowledge, and confidence that led to a change in routine practice. Throughout the project, staff were committed to engaging with risky drinkers and appeared to have been learning-by-doing. Conclusions. The results indicated a positive attitude to alcohol prevention work but staff lack knowledge and confidence in the area. The more practical experience during the study is, the more confidence seems to have been gained. This adds new knowledge to the science of implementation studies concerning alcohol prevention measures, which have otherwise shown disappointing results, emphasizing the importance of learning in practice.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4f/db/PMC4944046.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3015703", "abstract": "We report our experience with a patient that developed an acute right hemiscrotum immediately after undergoing an uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallbladder dyskinesia. The etiology of the acute scrotal pain was due to bile which was spilled into the peritoneum after entry into the gallbladder during dissection. The bile obtained access to the right hemiscrotum via a communicating hydrocele. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of bile causing an acute scrotum following laparoscopic surgery. A review of the current literature on the topic of the postoperative acute scrotum follows our case presentation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/54/e8/jsls-10-3-379.PMC3015703.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5088154", "abstract": "[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to find the influential factors of maximal-effort expiratory capacity of elderly women. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects of this study were 83 healthy elderly women. The study’s methods and purpose were explained and these women agreed to participate. The maximal-effort expiratory capacity was measured using spirometry (Pony FX, COSMED Inc., Italy). We measured forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity, maximal expiratory flow 75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c9/69/jpts-28-2924.PMC5088154.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2213056", "abstract": "Somatic hypermutation (SHM) in immunoglobulin genes is required for high affinity antibody–antigen binding. Cultured cell systems, mouse model systems, and human genetic deficiencies have been the key players in identifying likely SHM pathways, whereas “pure” biochemical approaches have been far less prominent, but change appears imminent. Here we comment on how, when, and why biochemistry is likely to emerge from the shadows and into the spotlight to elucidate how the somatic mutation of antibody variable (V) regions is generated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/81/7d/20050161.PMC2213056.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3655657", "abstract": "The motor function is controlled by the motor system that comprises a series of cortical and subcortical areas interacting via anatomical connections. The motor function will be disturbed when the stroke lesion impairs either any of these areas or their connections. More and more evidence indicates that the reorganization of the motor network including both areas and their anatomical and functional connectivity might contribute to the motor recovery after stroke. Here, we review recent studies employing models of anatomical, functional, and effective connectivity on neuroimaging data to investigate how ischemic stroke influences the connectivity of motor areas and how changes in connectivity relate to impaired function and functional recovery. We suggest that connectivity changes constitute an important pathophysiological aspect of motor impairment after stroke and important mechanisms of motor recovery. We also demonstrate that therapeutic interventions may facilitate motor recovery after stroke by modulating the connectivity among the motor areas. In conclusion, connectivity analyses improved our understanding of the mechanisms of motor recovery after stroke and may help to design hypothesis-driven treatment strategies and sensitive measures for outcome prediction in stroke patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d1/7f/PMC3655657.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3031828", "abstract": "Purpose Services’ integration comprises organizational, normative, economic, informational and clinical dimensions. Since 2004, the province of Quebec has devoted significant efforts to unify the governance of the main health and social care organizations of its various territories. Notwithstanding the uniformity of the national plan’s prescription, the territorial integration modalities greatly vary across the province. Theory This research is based upon a conceptual model of integration that comprises six components: inter-organizational partnership, case management, standardized assessment, a single entry point, a standardized service planning tool and a shared clinical file. Methods We conducted an embedded case study in six contrasted sites in terms of their level of integration. All documents prescribing the implementation of integration were retrieved and analyzed. Results and conclusions The analyzed documents demonstrate a growing local appropriation of the current integrative reform. Interestingly however, no link seems to exist between the quality of local prescriptions and the level of integration achieved in each site. This finding leads us to hypothesize that the variable quality of the operational accompaniment offered to implement these prescriptions is a variable in play.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/90/cc/PMC3031828.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3881866", "abstract": "Ozone is an important disinfecting agent, however its influence on enamel adhesion has not yet been clarified. Objective: Evaluate the influence of ozone pretreatment on the shear strength of an etch-and-rinse and a self-etch system to enamel and analyze the respective failure modes. Material and Methods: Sixty sound bovine incisors were used. Specimens were randomly assigned to four experimental groups (n=15): Group G1 (Excite® with ozone) and group G3 (AdheSE® with ozone) were prepared with ozone gas from the HealOzone unit (Kavo®) for 20 s prior to adhesion, and groups G2 (Excite®) and G4 (AdheSE®) were used as control. Teeth were bisected and polished to simulate a smear layer just before the application of the adhesive systems. The adhesives were applied according to the manufacturer's instructions to a standardized 3 mm diameter surface, and a composite (Synergy D6, Coltene Whaledent) cylinder with 2 mm increments was build. Specimens were stored in 100", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c6/67/jaos-21-02-0177.PMC3881866.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5348467", "abstract": "A 73-year-old man with type 2 diabetes mellitus and end-stage renal disease was diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction. He required continuous dialysis after percutaneous coronary intervention. Subsequently, multiple nodules were discovered in both lungs for the first time, and Cryptococcus neoformans was isolated from the patient's sputum, blood, bilateral pleural fluid, and cerebrospinal fluid cultures, resulting in a diagnosis of disseminated cryptococcosis. This case represents an invaluable example of disseminated cryptococcosis with rapidly growing lung nodules in a dialysis patient, and illustrates that dialysis causes innate immune disorder and the reactivation of cryptococcosis. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8b/3b/1349-7235-56-0377.PMC5348467.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5446961", "abstract": "Purpose This study aimed to describe treatment patterns and estimate health care resource utilization and associated costs among Japanese women with dysmenorrhea, using a claims database. Methods This was a retrospective analysis using health insurance data from the Japan Medical Data Center, assessing female patients aged 18–49 years with newly diagnosed primary or secondary dysmenorrhea. Treatment pattern analyses focused on hormonal medications, analgesics, hemostatic agents, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and gynecological surgeries. Data were collected on health care resource utilization and costs associated with medications, imaging procedures, and inpatient and outpatient care in both patients and matched controls. Results The analysis included 6,315 women with dysmenorrhea (3,441 primary; 2,874 secondary). The most commonly prescribed initial therapies were low-dose estrogen progestins (LEPs, 37.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4c/cb/ceor-9-295.PMC5446961.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2600210", "abstract": "We reviewed timeline information for a sample of Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Campylobacter spp., and Escherichia coli O157:H7 cases and all confirmed foodborne outbreaks reported in 6 states during 2002. Increasing the timeliness of case follow-up, molecular subtyping, and linkage of results are critical to reducing delays in the investigation of foodborne outbreaks.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4f/15/PMC2600210.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3357525", "abstract": " Purpose. To evaluate the results and quality of life of patients with resistant of castration-resistant tumors previously treated with Insulin-potentiation therapy (IPT) combined with hormone therapy. Materials and methods. Sixteen patients with metastasis prostate tumors after bilateral castration, androgenic blockade, and progression of the disease were observed during the study. The patients were divided into two groups: group A consisting of 8 patients treated with low-dose chemotherapy Epirubicin, Vinblastine, and Cyclophosphamide combined with LHRH agonist and group B consisting of another 8 patients treated with low-dose chemotherapy Docetaxel combined with LHRH agonist. Results. The overall (groups A and B) results concerning PSA after the sixth IPT show partial effect in 8 out of 16 (50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1f/e2/PMC3357525.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4101954", "abstract": "Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infection can cause central nervous system disease with irreversible neurological damage in humans and animals. Evidence suggests that overactivation of microglia leads to greatly increased neuronal damage during JEV infection. However, the mechanism by which JEV induces the activation of microglia remains unclear. Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) and retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) can recognize double-stranded RNA, and their downstream signaling results in production of proinflammatory mediators. In this study, we investigated the roles of TLR3 and RIG-I in the inflammatory response caused by JEV infection in the mouse microglial cell line. JEV infection induced the expression of TLR3 and RIG-I and the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK). Knockdown of TLR3 and RIG-I attenuated activation of ERK, p38MAPK, activator protein 1 (AP-1), and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). Secretion of TNF-α, IL-6, and CCL-2, which was induced by JEV, was reduced by TLR3 and RIG-I knockdown and inhibitors of phosphorylated ERK and p38MAPK. Furthermore, viral proliferation was increased following knockdown of TLR3 and RIG-I. Our findings suggest that the signaling pathways of TLR3 and RIG-I play important roles in the JEV-induced inflammatory response of microglia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1c/cf/PMC4101954.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3841280", "abstract": "We report a very rare case of cervical compressive myelopathy by an anomalous bilateral vertebral artery (VA) entering the spinal canal at the C1 level and compressing the spinal cord. A 70-year-old woman had been suffering from progressive gait disturbance. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed that a bilateral VA at the V4 segment had abnormal courses and caused compression to the high cervical cord. VA repositioning was performed by anchoring a suture between the artery and around the arachnoid membrane and dentate ligament, and then, microvascular decompression using a Teflon sponge was done between the VA and the spinal cord. The weakness in the patient improved in the lower extremity after the operation. Anomalous VA could be one of the rare causes of cervical compressive myelopathy. Additionally, an anchoring suture and microvascular decompression around the VA could be a sufficient and safe method to indirectly decompress the spinal canal.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d6/c7/jkns-54-347.PMC3841280.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4124654", "abstract": "CP001 is four traditional herbal medicine mixtures with anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the effect of oral administration of CP001 ethanol extract on the 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene- (DNCB-) induced AD mouse models. For that purpose, we observed the effects of oral administration of CP001 on skin inflammatory cell infiltration, skin mast cells, production of serum IgE, and expression of Th2 cytokine mRNA in the AD skin lesions of DNCB treated BALB/c mice. Histological analyses demonstrated that CP001 decreased dermis and epidermis thickening as well as dermal infiltration induced by inflammatory cells. In addition, CP001 decreased mast cell infiltration in count as well as dermal infiltration induced by inflammatory cells. In the skin lesions, mRNA expression of interleukin- (IL-) 4 and IL-13 was inhibited by CP001. CP001 also reduced the production of IgE level in mouse plasma. In addition, we investigated the effect of CP001 on the inflammatory allergic reaction using human mast cells (HMC-1). In HMC-1, cytokine production and mRNA levels of IL-4, IL-13, IL-6, and IL-8 were suppressed by CP001. Taken together, our results showed that oral administration of CP001 exerts beneficial effects in AD symptoms, suggesting that CP001 might be a useful candidate for the treatment of AD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a5/d4/PMC4124654.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5044895", "abstract": "Abstract Contrast medium administration is one of the leading causes of acute kidney injury (AKI) in different clinical settings. The aim of the study was to investigate occurrence and predisposing factors of AKI in cirrhotic patients undergoing contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT). Datasets of 1279 consecutively hospitalized cirrhotic patients were retrospectively analyzed. Two hundred forty-nine of 1279 patients (mean age 64 ± 11 years, 165 male) who had undergone CECT were selected on the basis of the availability of serum creatinine (sCr) values evaluated before and after CECT (CECT group). In analogy, 203/1279 cases (mean age 66 ± 10 years, 132 male) who had not undergone CECT and had been tested twice for sCr in 7 days were also included as controls (Control group). AKI network criteria were employed to assess contrast-induced AKI (CI-AKI) development. Apart from lack of narrowed double sCr measurements, additional exclusion criteria were active bacterial infections, nephrotoxic drugs intake, and estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min. AKI developed in 22/249 (8.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/48/6e/medi-95-e4836.PMC5044895.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3572361", "abstract": "The endoscopic insertion of the self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) in benign biliary stricture has become an alternative to surgery. Fracture or migration of SEMS can occur rarely as complications. We report a case of fracture of SEMS during endoscopic retrieval in patients with chronic pancreatitis. In this case, broken stent was successfully removed with endoscopic ballooning of bile duct and with a snare device.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f3/19/ce-46-95.PMC3572361.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4028921", "abstract": "Myositis ossificans is a rare cause of trismus. We present a case of pseudomalignant myositis ossificans involving medial pterygoid, lateral pterygoid, and temporalis muscles. Patient presented with gross limitation in mouth opening. There was no history of trauma. Computed tomography (CT) images revealed a bone density mass located in the region of medial and lateral pterygoid muscles on the right and temporalis muscle on the left. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed similar findings. Radiological diagnosis was pseudomalignant myositis ossificans. The masses were resected and histopathologic examination confirmed the above diagnosis. This report describes the characteristic CT and MRI features. The unique feature of this case is the absence of history of trauma with involvement of multiple masticatory muscles, which, to the best of our knowledge, has not been reported before.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e7/a2/IJRI-24-75.PMC4028921.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3693582", "abstract": "A 27-year-old Thai male presented with progressive visual loss and a membrane-like floater in the right eye that had persisted for 1 month. He had a history of eating raw foods, including snails. His initial visual acuity was counting fingers at 1 ft and he had a relative afferent pupillary defect. A movable larva with subretinal tracks was found in the subretinal space near a normal optic disc. Visually evoked potentials showed delayed latency, which indicated secondary retrobulbar optic neuritis. A diode laser was directly applied to the motile worm. The patient was subsequently prescribed oral prednisolone and albendazole. After treatment, his visual acuity was slightly improved at 2/60. Ocular manifestation is a very rare event resulting from parasitic infection. In only 1.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/b4/PMC3693582.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3365234", "abstract": "The aim of this study was to evaluate prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea among patients undergoing bariatric surgery and the predictive value of various clinical parameters: body mass index (BMI), neck circumference (NC) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). We performed a prospective, multidisciplinary, single-center observational study including all patients on the waiting list for bariatric surgery between June 2009 and June 2010, irrespective of history or clinical findings. Patients visited our ENT outpatient clinic for patient history, ENT and general examination and underwent a full night polysomnography, unless performed previously. As much as 69.9", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5f/29/PMC3365234.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4931087", "abstract": "The majority of weight management research is based on data from randomized controlled studies conducted in clinical settings. As these findings are translated into community-based settings, additional research is needed to understand patterns of lifestyle change and dropout. The purpose of this study was to examine reasons for and consequences associated with dropout (or removal) from an insurance-funded weight management program. Using a mixed methods approach with objectively measured changes in body weight and attendance along with quantitative and qualitative survey data, patterns of intention and behavior change were explored. The results from a sample of 400 respondents support the idea that there are both positive and negative consequences of program participation. Overall, 1 in 5 respondents lost a clinically significant amount of weight during the program (>5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/93/00/PMC4931087.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5155580", "abstract": "Aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition and has one of the highest mortality rates of cardiovascular diseases. It remains a devastating disease; with multiple unanswered questions concerning treatment modalities. The role of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in these patients; especially those with uncomplicated acute aortic Type B dissections (AAD-B) is especially controversial although it has been shown to have better long-term outcomes compared to medical therapy alone. For those who have TEVAR, up to 60", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5f/af/rjw173.PMC5155580.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4609835", "abstract": "Proinflammatory cytokines affect several cell functions via receptor-mediated processes. In the kidney, functions of transporters and ion channels along the nephron are also affected by some cytokines. Among these, alteration of activity of potassium ion (K+) channels induces changes in transepithelial transport of solutes and water in the kidney, since K+ channels in tubule cells are indispensable for formation of membrane potential which serves as a driving force for the transepithelial transport. Altered K+ channel activity may be involved in renal cell dysfunction during inflammation. Although little information was available regarding the effects of proinflammatory cytokines on renal K+ channels, reports have emerged during the last decade. In human proximal tubule cells, interferon-γ showed a time-dependent biphasic effect on a 40 pS K+ channel, that is, delayed suppression and acute stimulation, and interleukin-1β acutely suppressed the channel activity. Transforming growth factor-β1 activated KCa3.1 K+ channel in immortalized human proximal tubule cells, which would be involved in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis. This review discusses the effects of proinflammatory cytokines on renal K+ channels and the causal relationship between the cytokine-induced changes in K+ channel activity and renal dysfunction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/33/12/PMC4609835.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3062067", "abstract": "Several factors, including fruit and vegetables intakes, have been shown to significantly influence the plasma concentrations of the two antioxidants vitamin C and β-carotene. Deficiency levels of 6 mg/L (34.2 μM) for vitamin C and of 0.22 mg/L (0.4 μM) for β-carotene have been suggested below which cardiovascular risk might be increased. The present study performed on 897 presumably healthy subjects aged 40–60 years aimed to examine how modifiable lifestyle factors may be related to vitamin C and/or β-carotene deficiency. Gender, smoking, lack of regular physical activity and of daily fruit consumption (≥2/day), and social status (in particular, unemployment) were found to be significant risk factors for vitamin C deficiency. For β-carotene deficiency, the same factors were identified except social status; moreover, overweight and OC use in women were also found to have a deleterious effect. For non exposed subjects, the probability of developing vitamin C deficiency was 4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/47/8d/PMC3062067.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3724571", "abstract": "Erythropoietin (EPO) is traditionally described as a hematopoietic cytokine or growth hormone regulating proliferation, differentiation, and survival of erythroid progenitors. The use of EPO in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) was a milestone achievement in the treatment of anemia. However, EPO involves some degree of risk, which increases with increasing hemoglobin levels. A growing number of studies have assessed the renoprotective effects of EPO in acute kidney injury (AKI) or CKD. Analysis of the biological effects of erythropoietin and pathophysiology of CKD in these studies suggests that treatment with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) may exert renoprotection by pleiotropic actions on several targets and directly or indirectly slow the progression of CKD. By reducing ischemia and oxidative stress or strengthening anti-apoptotic processes, EPO may prevent the development of interstitial fibrosis and the destruction of tubular cells. Furthermore, it could have a direct protective impact on the integrity of the interstitial capillary network through its effects on endothelial cells and promotion of vascular repair, or modulate inflammation response. Thus, it is biologically plausible to suggest that correcting anemia with ESAs could slow the progression of CKD. The aim of this article is to discuss these possible renoprotection mechanisms and provide a comprehensive overview of erythropoietin and its derivatives.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/37/62/PMC3724571.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4297116", "abstract": "Objective: Complex fractures of the tibial plateau are difficult to treat and present a high complication rate. The goal of this report is to describe a combined biological and mechanical approach to restore all morphological and functional knee properties. Methods: We treated a 50-year-old woman, who was affected by a posttraumatic osteochondral lesion and depression of the lateral tibial plateau with knee valgus deviation. The mechanical axis was corrected with a lateral tibial plateau elevation osteotomy, the damaged joint surface was replaced by a recently developed biomimetic osteochondral scaffold, and a hinged dynamic external fixator was applied to protect the graft and at the same time to allow postoperative joint mobilization. Results: A marked clinical improvement was documented at 12 months and further improved up to 5 years, with pain-free full range of motion and return to previous activities. The MRI evaluation at 12 and 24 months showed that the implant remained in site with a hyaline-like signal and restoration of the articular surface. Conclusion: This case report describes a combined surgical approach for complex knee lesions that could represent a treatment option to avoid or at least delay posttraumatic osteoarthritis and more invasive procedures.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/7b/41/PMC4297116.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3605491", "abstract": "Estimating population densities of key species is crucial for many conservation programs. Density estimates provide baseline data and enable monitoring of population size. Several different survey methods are available, and the choice of method depends on the species and study aims. Few studies have compared the accuracy and efficiency of different survey methods for large mammals, particularly for primates. Here we compare estimates of density and abundance of Kloss’ gibbons (Hylobates klossii) using two of the most common survey methods: line transect distance sampling and triangulation. Line transect surveys (survey effort: 155.5 km) produced a total of 101 auditory and visual encounters and a density estimate of 5.5 gibbon clusters (groups or subgroups of primate social units)/km2. Triangulation conducted from 12 listening posts during the same period revealed a similar density estimate of 5.0 clusters/km2. Coefficients of variation of cluster density estimates were slightly higher from triangulation (0.24) than from line transects (0.17), resulting in a lack of precision in detecting changes in cluster densities of <66 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/ba/f1/PMC3605491.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2905937", "abstract": "The main objective of this paper was to investigate the effect of transmission of force on bone cells that were attached to a deformable membrane. We functionalized a silastic membrane that measured 0.005 inches thickness and coated it with an extra cellular matrix (ECM) protein, fibronectin (FN). MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells were cultured on the functionalized FN-coated membrane after which cell attachment and proliferation were evaluated. We observed an immediate attachment and proliferation of the bone cells on the functionalized membrane coated with FN, after 24 hours. Upon application of a mechanical force to cells cultured on the functionalized silicone membrane in the form of a dynamic equibiaxial strain, 2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/1b/bf/PMC2905937.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2825092", "abstract": "We examined the ionization potential (IP) corresponding to the free energy of a hole on duplex DNA by semiempirical molecular orbital theory with a continuum solvent model. As for the contiguous guanines (a guanine run), we found that the IP in the gas phase significantly decreases with the increasing number of nucleotide pairs of the guanine run, whereas the IP in water (OP, oxidation potential) only slightly does. The latter result is consistent with the experimental result for DNA oligomers in water. This decrease in the IP is mainly due to the attractive electrostatic interaction between the hole and a nucleotide pair in the duplex DNA. This interaction is reduced in water, which results in the small decrease in the IP in water. This mechanism explains the discrepancy between the experimental result and the previous computational results obtained by neglecting the solvent. As for the chemically modified guanine, the previous work showed that the removal of some solvent (water) molecules due to the attachment of a neutral functional group to a guanine in a duplex DNA stabilizes the hole on the guanine. One might naively have expected the opposite case, since a polar solvent usually stabilizes ions. This mechanism also explains this unexpected stabilization of a hole as follows. When some water molecules are removed, the attractive electrostatic interaction stabilizing the hole increases, and thus, the hole is stabilized. In order to design the hole energetics by a chemical modification of DNA, this mechanism has to be taken into account and can be used.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c4/12/PMC2825092.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4670646", "abstract": " Background. The Akaki River in Ethiopia has been found to contain elevated levels of several metals. Our objectives were to characterize metals exposures of residents living near the Akaki River and to assess metal levels in their drinking water. Methods. In 2011, we conducted a cross-sectional study of 101 households in Akaki-Kality subcity (near the Akaki River) and 50 households in Yeka subcity (distant to the Akaki River). One willing adult in each household provided urine, blood, and drinking water sample. Results. Urinary molybdenum (p < 0.001), tungsten (p < 0.001), lead (p < 0.001), uranium (p < 0.001), and mercury (p = 0.049) were higher in Akaki-Kality participants compared to Yeka participants. Participants in both subcities had low urinary iodine; 45", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/77/86/PMC4670646.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3369530", "abstract": "Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder, leading to progressive muscle weakness, atrophy, and sometimes premature death. SMA is caused by mutation or deletion of the survival motor neuron-1 (SMN1) gene. An effective treatment does not presently exist. Since the severity of the SMA phenotype is inversely correlated with expression levels of SMN, the SMN-encoded protein, SMN is the most important therapeutic target for development of an effective treatment for SMA. In recent years, numerous SMN independent targets and therapeutic strategies have been demonstrated to have potential roles in SMA treatment. For example, some neurotrophic, antiapoptotic, and myotrophic factors are able to promote survival of motor neurons or improve muscle strength shown in SMA mouse models or clinical trials. Plastin-3, cpg15, and a Rho-kinase inhibitor regulate axonal dynamics and might reduce the influences of SMN depletion in disarrangement of neuromuscular junction. Stem cell transplantation in SMA model mice resulted in improvement of motor behaviors and extension of survival, likely from trophic support. Although most therapies are still under investigation, these nonclassical treatments might provide an adjunctive method for future SMA therapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/28/51/PMC3369530.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2893846", "abstract": "Hexagonal Ag/Pt nanoshells were prepared by using a hexagonal Ag nanoplate as the displacement template and by introducing Pt ions. The prepared Ag/Pt nanoshells played the role of an electrocatalyst in an oxygen reduction process. Compared to spherical Pt and Ag/Pt nanoparticles, the hexagonal Ag/Pt nanoshells showed higher activity for oxygen electroreduction.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b7/96/PMC2893846.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5239987", "abstract": "Alterations in prefrontal cortex (PFC) function and abnormalities in its interactions with other brain areas (i.e., the hippocampus) have been related to Alzheimer Disease (AD). Considering that these malfunctions correlate with the increase in the brain's amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide production, here we looked for a causal relationship between these pathognomonic signs of AD. Thus, we tested whether or not Aβ affects the activity of the PFC network and the activation of this cortex by hippocampal input stimulation in vitro. We found that Aβ application to brain slices inhibits PFC spontaneous network activity as well as PFC activation, both at the population and at the single-cell level, when the hippocampal input is stimulated. Our data suggest that Aβ can contribute to AD by disrupting PFC activity and its long-range interactions throughout the brain.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/40/a9/PMC5239987.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4928360", "abstract": "The identification of cancer testis (CT) antigens has been an important advance in determining potential targets for cancer immunotherapy. Multiple previous studies have shown that CT antigen vaccines, using both peptides and dendritic cell vaccines, can elicit clinical and immunologic responses in several different tumors. This review details the expression of melanoma antigen family A, 1 (MAGE-A1), melanoma antigen family A, 3 (MAGE-A3), and New York esophageal squamous cell carcinoma-1 (NY-ESO-1) in various malignancies, and presents our current understanding of CT antigen based immunotherapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/59/05/PMC4928360.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4860516", "abstract": "Abstract. Coincidental cyanotic congenital heart disease and pheochromocytoma is uncommon, although some cases have been reported. We describe a girl aged 15 yr and 11 mo with pheochromocytoma and tricuspid atresia treated by performing the Fontan surgery. The patient did not have any specific symptoms of syndrome related to pheochromoytoma or a family history of pheochromocytoma. During cardiac catheterization, her blood pressure increased markedly, and an α-blocker was administered. Catecholamine hypersecretion was observed in the blood and urine, and abdominal computed tomography revealed a tumor in the right adrenal gland. Scintigraphy showed marked accumulation of 123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine in the tumor, which led to a diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. We did not detect any germline mutations in the RET, VHL, SDHB, SDHD, TMEM127, or MAX genes. This patient had experienced mild systemic hypoxia since birth, which may have contributed to the development of pheochromocytoma.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/13/bb/cpe-25-059.PMC4860516.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3816177", "abstract": "The gastrointestinal motility is regulated by extrinsic and intrinsic neural regulation. Intrinsic neural pathways are controlled by sensory input, inter-neuronal relay and motor output. Enteric motor neurons release many transmitters which affect post-junctional responses. Post-junctional responses can be excitatory and inhibitory depending on neurotransmitters. Excitatory neurotransmitters induce depolarization and contraction. In contrast, inhibitory neurotransmitters hyperpolarize and relaxe the gastrointestinal smooth muscle. Smooth muscle syncytium is composed of smooth muscle cells, interstitial cells of Cajal and platelet-derived growth factor receptor α-positive (PDGFRα+) cells (SIP syncytium). Specific expression of receptors and ion channels in these cells can be affected by neurotransmitters. In recent years, molecular reporter expression techniques are able to study the properties of ion channels and receptors in isolated specialized cells. In this review, we will discuss the mechanisms of ion channels to interpret the post-junctional responses in the gastrointestinal smooth muscles.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2e/f1/jnm-19-426.PMC3816177.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4814681", "abstract": " Background. Angiotensin 1-7 (Ang1-7) plays an important role in renal circulation. Hemorrhagic shock (HS) may cause kidney circulation disturbance, and this study was designed to investigate the renal blood flow (RBF) response to Ang1-7 after HS. Methods. 27 male Wistar rats were subjected to blood withdrawal to reduce mean arterial pressure (MAP) to 45 mmHg for 45 min. The animals were treated with saline (group 1), Ang1-7 (300 ng·kg−1 min−1), Ang1-7 in hypertonic sodium chloride 7.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c4/cb/PMC4814681.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3383265", "abstract": "Background Detection of the human epididymis secretory protein 4 (HE4) biomarker plays an important role in the early diagnosis of ovarian cancer. This study aimed to develop a novel localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) biosensor for detecting HE4 in blood samples from patients with ovarian cancer. Methods Silver nanoparticles were fabricated using a nanosphere lithography method. The anti-HE4 antibody as a probe, which can distinctly recognize HE4, was assembled onto the nanochip surface using an amine coupling method. Detection was based on the shift in the extinction maximum of the LSPR spectrum before and after the HE4-anti-HE4 antibody reaction. These nanobiosensors were applied to detect HE4 in human serum samples and compare them using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Tests relating to the detection of HE4 demonstrated that the LSPR-based biosensor featured a fast detection speed, good specificity, effective reproducibility, and long-term stability. The linear range for LSPR was between 10 pM and 10,000 pM, with a detection limit of 4 pM. An excellent correlation between LSPR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results was observed in human serum. Conclusion This study is the first clinical diagnostic application of the LSPR biosensor in ovarian cancer. The LSPR biosensor, a rapid, low-cost, label-free and portable screening tool, can serve as a very effective alternative for the clinical serological diagnosis of ovarian cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d3/b8/PMC3383265.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4727511", "abstract": "Purpose To assess the pathological macular changes with optical coherence tomography (OCT) before the removal of silicone oil (SiO) in eyes that had undergone pars plana vitrectomy for complicated forms of retinal detachment (RD). Patients and methods Subjects included 48 patients (51 eyes) with complicated RD including proliferative vitreoretinopathy, proliferative diabetic retinopathy, recurrent RD, penetrating trauma, uveitis, giant retinal tears, and macular holes. All the eyes had undergone SiO injection. Furthermore, all eyes had been planned for the removal of SiO 6–12 months after the primary surgery. Finally, all eyes had a fundus examination and OCT examination before the silicone oil removal. Results OCT findings indicated epiretinal membrane in 41", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/3b/a6/opth-10-121.PMC4727511.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3405387", "abstract": "The development of personalised medicine is of considerable importance for paediatric patient populations, and represents a move away from the use of treatment dosages based on experience with the same compounds in adults. Currently, however, we know little about developmental pharmacogenomics and, although many biomarkers are available for clinical research use, there have been few applications in the management of paediatric diseases. This paper reviews where we are in the journey towards achieving paediatric personalised medicine and describes a group of diseases requiring such an approach. The personalised medicine approach is particularly relevant for the treatment of rare childhood diseases, and the group of life-threatening neurological disorders known as lysosomal storage diseases represents a potential study population. The genetic bases of these disorders are generally well defined, there is the potential for diagnosis at birth or prenatally, and there are a range of therapeutic options available or under development.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5e/f4/PMC3405387.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4026989", "abstract": " Background. suPAR, the soluble form of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor, has been identified as a biomarker of infection in adults but its properties in neonatal infection are not known. Methods. Plasma suPAR levels were determined by ELISA in 47 term neonates with infection (19 bacterial and 28 viral) and in 18 healthy neonates as controls. Thirteen out of 47 infected neonates were septic. In all infected neonates, suPAR levels were repeated at 24 hours, 48 hours, 3–5 days, and 7–10 days following admission. Results. Plasma suPAR levels were significantly increased in infected neonates upon admission, whereas they were highest in septic neonates, in comparison with controls (P < 0.001) and correlated positively with serum CRP levels (P = 0.001). At infection subsidence, suPAR concentrations decreased significantly in comparison with baseline (P < 0.001) but remained higher than in controls (P = 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic analysis resulted in significant areas under the curve for detecting either infected or septic neonates, but not for discriminating between bacterial and viral cause of infection. Conclusions. suPAR is a diagnostic biomarker of infection or sepsis in term neonates; however, it cannot discriminate bacterial from viral infections and also its utility for monitoring the response to treatment is questioned.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c7/33/PMC4026989.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3437633", "abstract": " Purpose. To evaluate the prevalence and reasons for teeth extractions in a sample from a dental clinic in Brazil. Methods. The prevalence of teeth mortality was analyzed by gender, age, tooth type and reasons for extraction on 800 teeth of 439 subjects, whose data was collected in clinical records in a convenience sample. Results. The groups with range from 35 to 44 years, 45 to 54 years and 55 to 64 years revealed significantly greater number of teeth extractions than other age groups (P < 0.0001). The anterior teeth loss increased significantly with aging, while the tooth mortality of premolar and molar were higher in younger people. The caries was the more prevalent reason for tooth mortality among young and adults up to 44 years old, while the periodontal disease was the main reason for extractions from 45 years old until range of 81 years (P < 0.0001). Conclusions. It can be suggested that some reasons for tooth loss were age-dependent, but the caries and the periodontal diseases were the main reasons for tooth mortality in this Brazilian sample.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fb/f3/PMC3437633.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3373155", "abstract": "Spinal lesions substantially impair ambulation, occur generally in young and otherwise healthy individuals, and result in devastating effects on quality of life. Restoration of locomotion after damage to the spinal cord is challenging because axons of the damaged neurons do not regenerate spontaneously. Body-weight-supported treadmill training (BWSTT) is a therapeutic approach in which a person with a spinal cord injury (SCI) steps on a motorized treadmill while some body weight is removed through an upper body harness. BWSTT improves temporal gait parameters, muscle activation patterns, and clinical outcome measures in persons with SCI. These changes are likely the result of reorganization that occurs simultaneously in supraspinal and spinal cord neural circuits. This paper will focus on the cortical control of human locomotion and motor output, spinal reflex circuits, and spinal interneuronal circuits and how corticospinal control is reorganized after locomotor training in people with SCI. Based on neurophysiological studies, it is apparent that corticospinal plasticity is involved in restoration of locomotion after training. However, the neural mechanisms underlying restoration of lost voluntary motor function are not well understood and translational neuroscience research is needed so patient-orientated rehabilitation protocols to be developed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/68/1c/PMC3373155.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3804659", "abstract": "Objective Symptoms of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) include headache, altered mental status, visual disturbances, and seizures. Typical radiological features include edema of the parieto-occipital lobes. The purpose of this study is to review the clinical and radiological findings in patients diagnosed with PRES. Methods All patients diagnosed with PRES between January 2006 and December 2012 were retrospectively included in this study. We reviewed demographic and clinical characteristics, and radiological findings. Results We identified 16 patients with PRES. The most common clinical presentation was seizure (n = 12, 75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/20/5b/jcen-15-206.PMC3804659.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3318234", "abstract": "Background Few cohort studies of the health effects of urban air pollution have been published. There is evidence, most consistently in studies with individual measurement of social factors, that more deprived populations are particularly sensitive to air pollution effects. Methods Records from the 1996 New Zealand census were anonymously and probabilistically linked to mortality data, creating a cohort study of the New Zealand population followed up for 3 years. There were 1.06 million adults living in urban areas for which data were available on all covariates. Estimates of exposure to air pollution (measured as particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than 10 μm, PM10) were available for census area units from a previous land use regression study. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate associations between cause-specific mortality rates and average exposure to PM10 in urban areas, with control for confounding by age, sex, ethnicity, social deprivation, income, education, smoking history and ambient temperature. Results The odds of all-cause mortality in adults (aged 30–74 years at census) increased by 7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0c/66/jech112490.PMC3318234.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4000883", "abstract": "Here, we report a case of massive rhabdomyolysis following an uncomplicated repair of a ventricular septal defect in a five-month-old baby. Postoperatively, the patient was hemodynamically stable but metabolic acidosis continued, accompanied by fever and delayed mental recovery. The next day, he became comatose and never regained consciousness thereafter. The computed tomography of the brain revealed a diffuse brain injury. The patient followed a downhill course and eventually died on postoperative day 33. An unusually high level of creatine phosphokinase was noticed, peaking (21,880 IU/L) on postoperative day 2, suggesting severe rhabdomyolysis. The relevant literature was reviewed, and the possibility of malignant hyperthermia obscured by cardiopulmonary bypass and hypothermia was addressed.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/36/76/kjtcs-47-181.PMC4000883.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3395267", "abstract": "In recent years, rapid advances were reached in the understanding of a series of biologic signals influencing cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) cells. CMM is in close contact with a peculiar dermal extracellular matrix (ECM). Stromal cells store and release various structural ECM components. The impact on CMM growth and progression is mediated through strong and long-lasting effects of ECM products. This paper summarizes some peculiar aspects of the peri-CMM stroma showing intracytoplasmic loads in Factor XIIIa, CD34, versican, and α (IV) collagen chains. The restricted peri-CMM skin territory exhibiting such changes corresponds to the area showing neoangiogenesis and extravascular unicellular metastatic spread. The latter inconspicuous migratory CMM cells possibly correspond to CMM stem cells or to CMM cells with aberrant HOX gene expression. Their presence is associated with an increased risk for metastases in the regional sentinel lymph nodes. In conclusion, the CMM-stroma connection appears crucial to the growth regulation, invasiveness and initial metastatic spread of CMM cells. Although much remains to be learned in this field, the active intervention of the peri-CMM stroma is likely involved in the inconspicuous early metastatic migration of CMM cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/29/PMC3395267.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5153584", "abstract": "The time domain entombment of bacteria by intratubular mineralization following orthograde canal obturation with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Single-rooted human premolars (n=60) were instrumented to an apical size #50/0.06 using ProFile and treated as follows: Group 1 (n=10) was filled with phosphate buffered saline (PBS); Group 2 (n=10) was incubated with Enterococcus faecalis for 3 weeks, and then filled with PBS; Group 3 (n=20) was obturated orthograde with a paste of OrthoMTA (BioMTA, Seoul, Korea) and PBS; and Group 4 (n=20) was incubated with E. faecalis for 3 weeks and then obturated with OrthoMTA–PBS paste. Following their treatments, the coronal openings were sealed with PBS-soaked cotton and intermediate restorative material (IRM), and the roots were then stored in PBS for 1, 2, 4, 8 or 16 weeks. After each incubation period, the roots were split and their dentin/MTA interfaces examined in both longitudinal and horizontal directions by SEM. There appeared to be an increase in intratubular mineralization over time in the OrthoMTA-filled roots (Groups 3 and 4). Furthermore, there was a gradual entombment of bacteria within the dentinal tubules in the E. faecalis inoculated MTA-filled roots (Group 4). Therefore, the orthograde obturation of root canals with OrthoMTA mixed with PBS may create a favorable environment for bacterial entombment by intratubular mineralization.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/71/f6/ijos201430a.PMC5153584.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5002447", "abstract": "Due to the increasing prevalence and number of life-threatening cases, food allergy has emerged as a major health concern. The classic immune response seen during food allergy is allergen-specific IgE sensitization and hypersensitivity reactions to foods occur in the effector phase with often severe and deleterious outcomes. Recent research has advanced understanding of the immunological mechanisms occurring during the effector phase of allergic reactions to ingested food. Therefore, this review will not only cover the mucosal immune system of the gastrointestinal tract and the immunological mechanisms underlying IgE-mediated food allergy, but will also introduce cells recently identified to have a role in the hypersensitivity reaction to food allergens. These include IL-9 producing mucosal mast cells (MMC9s) and type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s). The involvement of these cell types in potentiating the type 2 immune response and developing the anaphylactic response to food allergens will be discussed. In addition, it has become apparent that there is a collaboration between these cells that contributes to an individual's susceptibility to IgE-mediated food allergy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/66/in-16-211.PMC5002447.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4968783", "abstract": "Purpose The integration of swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) into the operating microscope enables real-time, tissue-level three-dimensional (3D) imaging to aid in ophthalmic microsurgery. In this prospective randomized controlled study, we evaluated the impact of SS microscope-integrated OCT (MI-OCT) on ophthalmology residents' performance of ophthalmic microsurgical maneuvers. Methods Fourteen ophthalmology residents from a single institution were stratified by year of training and randomized to perform four anterior segment surgical maneuvers on porcine eyes with (MI-OCT+) or without (MI-OCT−) direct intraoperative OCT guidance. Subsequently, both groups repeated the same maneuvers without MI-OCT feedback to test whether initial MI-OCT experience affected subsequent surgical performance. Finally, the MI-OCT− group was crossed over and allowed to repeat the same maneuvers with direct MI-OCT guidance. Each resident completed a survey at the completion of the study. Results With direct MI-OCT feedback, residents demonstrated enhanced performance in depth-based anterior segment maneuvers (corneal suture passes at 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c2/86/i1552-5783-57-9-OCT146.PMC4968783.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4641948", "abstract": "Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a versatile lipid signaling molecule and key regulator in vascular inflammation. S1P is secreted by platelets, monocytes, and vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells. It binds specifically to a family of G-protein-coupled receptors, S1P receptors 1 to 5, resulting in downstream signaling and numerous cellular effects. S1P modulates cell proliferation and migration, and mediates proinflammatory responses and apoptosis. In the vascular barrier, S1P regulates permeability and endothelial reactions and recruitment of monocytes and may modulate atherosclerosis. Only recently has S1P emerged as a critical mediator which directly links the coagulation factor system to vascular inflammation. The multifunctional proteases thrombin and FXa regulate local S1P availability and interact with S1P signaling at multiple levels in various vascular cell types. Differential expression patterns and intracellular signaling pathways of each receptor enable S1P to exert its widespread functions. Although a vast amount of information is available about the functions of S1P and its receptors in the regulation of physiological and pathophysiological conditions, S1P-mediated mechanisms in the vasculature remain to be elucidated. This review summarizes recent findings regarding the role of S1P and its receptors in vascular wall and blood cells, which link the coagulation system to inflammatory responses in the vasculature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/44/f7/PMC4641948.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2894096", "abstract": "Bioconjugates made up of an enzyme and gold nanorods (GNRs) were fabricated by electrostatic interactions (layer-by-layer method, LBL) between anionic glucose oxidase (GOD) and positively charged GNRs. The assembled processes were monitored by UV–Vis spectra, zeta potential measurements, and transmission electron microscopy. The enzyme activity assays of the obtained bioconjugates display a relatively enhanced thermostability behavior in contrast with that of free enzyme. Free GOD in solution only retains about 22", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b4/e3/PMC2894096.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4782615", "abstract": "The label-free detection of one of the cardiac biomarkers, myoglobin, using a photonic-crystal-based biosensor in a total-internal-reflection configuration (PC-TIR) is presented in this paper. The PC-TIR sensor possesses a unique open optical microcavity that allows for several key advantages in biomolecular assays. In contrast to a conventional closed microcavity, the open configuration allows easy functionalization of the sensing surface for rapid biomolecular binding assays. Moreover, the properties of PC structures make it easy to be designed and engineered for operating at any optical wavelength. Through fine design of the photonic crystal structure, biochemical modification of the sensor surface, and integration with a microfluidic system, we have demonstrated that the detection sensitivity of the sensor for myoglobin has reached the clinically significant concentration range, enabling potential usage of this biosensor for diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction. The real-time response of the sensor to the myoglobin binding may potentially provide point-of-care monitoring of patients and treatment effects.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/99/9d/PMC4782615.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5446958", "abstract": "Background APF530, a novel extended-release granisetron injection, was superior to ondansetron in a guideline-recommended three-drug regimen in preventing delayed-phase chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) among patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC) in the double-blind Phase III Modified Absorption of Granisetron In the prevention of CINV (MAGIC) trial. Patients and methods This MAGIC post hoc analysis evaluated CINV prevention efficacy and safety of APF530 versus ondansetron, each with fosaprepitant and dexamethasone, in patient subgroup receiving an anthracycline plus cyclophosphamide (AC) regimen. Patients were randomized 1:1 to APF530 500 mg subcutaneously (granisetron 10 mg) or ondansetron 0.15 mg/kg intravenously (IV) (≤16 mg); stratification was by planned cisplatin ≥50 mg/m2 (yes/no). Patients were to receive fosaprepitant 150 mg IV and dexamethasone 12 mg IV on day 1, then dexamethasone 8 mg orally once daily on day 2 and twice daily on days 3 and 4. Patients were mostly younger females (APF530 arm, mean age 54.1 years, female, 99.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/07/15/cmar-9-179.PMC5446958.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3022165", "abstract": "Dry socket is often treated in dentistry with intra-alveolar dressings; the use of them remains controversial and has been related to some side effects such as neuritis, foreign body reactions, and myospherulosis. We present a case of an intra-alveolar dressing (zinc-oxide eugenol paste) that mimicked a trigeminal neuralgia for 3 years and caused a right maxillary chronic osteomyelitis and foreign body reaction in a zone corresponding to the alveolus of the maxillary first molar. This long-term complication was successfully managed by complete removal of the foreign body and curettage of the affected area.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/19/8e/PMC3022165.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3112517", "abstract": "In young women, differentiated thyroid cancer is the second most common malignancy diagnosed around the time of pregnancy. Management of thyroid cancer during pregnancy poses distinct challenges due to concerns regarding maternal and fetal well-being. In most cases surgery can be safely delayed until after delivery and with adequate management and outcome of pregnancy in women with thyroid cancer is excellent. Ideally these patients should be managed by a multidisciplinary team, and management plan should be determined by a consensus between the patient and the healthcare team.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c8/ca/PMC3112517.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5107293", "abstract": "New-onset psychosis in children represents a complex presenting symptom. Psychosis can be attributable to a combination of factors and etiologies, and all possible causes must be systematically examined. There is growing evidence that a proportion of psychosis/psychiatric manifestations in children may be immune-mediated, and physicians should consider this etiology in each presentation of first-episode psychosis. Immune-mediated encephalopathies/encephalitis are increasingly being recognized in children with antibodies to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, Leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1 or other central nervous system antigens such as Contactin-associated protein-like 2, glutamic acid decarboxylase, alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid or Gamma-aminobutyric acid B. In this study, we describe 3 cases of immune-mediated encephalopathy/encephalitis with prominent psychiatric symptoms at presentation, and suggest a practical diagnostic and treatment approach for children with acute psychosis of an immune-mediated cause.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3c/63/PMC5107293.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4197147", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Escherichia coli resistance to quinolones has now become a serious issue in large-scale pig farms of China. It is necessary to study the dynamics of quinolone resistance in fecal Escherichia coli of pigs after antimicrobial administration. Here, we present the hypothesis that the emergence of resistance in pigs requires drug accumulation for 7 days or more. To test this hypothesis, 26 pigs (90 days old, about 30 kg) not fed any antimicrobial after weaning were selected and divided into 2 equal groups: the experimental (EP) group and control (CP) group. Pigs in the EP group were orally treated daily with 5 mg ciprofloxacin/kg of body weight for 30 days, and pigs in the CP group were fed a normal diet. Fresh feces were collected at 16 time points from day 0 to day 61. At each time point, ten E. coli clones were tested for susceptibility to quinolones and mutations of gyrA and parC. The results showed that the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) for ciprofloxacin increased 16-fold compared with the initial MIC (0.5 µg/ml) after ciprofloxacin administration for 3 days and decreased 256-fold compared with the initial MIC (0.5 µg/ml) after ciprofloxacin withdrawal for 26 days. GyrA (S83L, D87N/ D87Y) and parC (S80I) substitutions were observed in all quinolone-resistant E. coli (QREC) clones with an MIC ≥8 µg/ml. This study provides scientific theoretical guidance for the rational use of antimicrobials and the control of bacterial resistance.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/36/7d/jvms-76-1213.PMC4197147.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3617918", "abstract": "Background: The purpose of this paper is to review the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of linagliptin in the management of hyperglycemia in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: A Medline search was performed using the keywords “linagliptin” and “type 2 diabetes” for articles published September 2010 through July 2012. The literature search was limited by the following criteria: articles’ publication in the English language, clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, and research conducted in humans. Results: A review of the data for linagliptin in the treatment of type 2 diabetes as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic therapies suggests clinical efficacy in terms of reductions in glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose, and postprandial glucose. Most adverse events with linagliptin are considered to be mild to moderate in nature. Although linagliptin therapy may offer a low risk of hypoglycemia, the risk increases when it is used in combination with insulin secretagogues. Linagliptin can generally be considered weight neutral, but a weight increase was observed when linagliptin was used in combination with a thiazolidinedione. Conclusion: Linagliptin is a once-daily oral medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The use of linagliptin as monotherapy or in combination with metformin, sulfonylureas, or pioglitazone led to improvement in glycemic control and was well tolerated by most patients.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e3/47/PMC3617918.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3168380", "abstract": " Introduction. Advances in hemophilia care and treatment have led to increases in the life expectancy among hemophiliacs. As a result, persons with hemophilia are reaching an older age and experiencing various age-related health conditions never seen before in this population. Aim. To determine the prevalence of comorbidities among middle-aged and elderly hemophilia A and hemophilia B patients. Methods. Retrospective chart review among all hemophilia patients, who attended the Gulf States Hemophilia and Thrombophilia Center. Results. All patients had at least one comorbid condition other than hemophilia, and the majority had between 3 and 6 comorbidities. The most common conditions identified were chronic hepatitis C, hypertension, HIV, chronic arthropathy, and overweight/obesity. Conclusions. Since persons with comorbidities are more likely to have poorer health outcomes and require greater care in managing their health needs, caring for aging hemophiliacs is likely to pose various social and economic challenges for both patients and providers.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/50/PMC3168380.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3328170", "abstract": "Statistical ranking, filtering, adduct detection, isotope correction, and molecular formula calculation are essential tasks in processing mass spectrometry data in metabolomics studies. In order to obtain high-quality data sets, a framework which incorporates all these methods is required. We present the MarVis-Filter software, which provides well-established and specialized methods for processing mass spectrometry data. For the task of ranking and filtering multivariate intensity profiles, MarVis-Filter provides the ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests with adjustment for multiple hypothesis testing. Adduct and isotope correction are based on a novel algorithm which takes the similarity of intensity profiles into account and allows user-defined ionization rules. The molecular formula calculation utilizes the results of the adduct and isotope correction. For a comprehensive analysis, MarVis-Filter provides an interactive interface to combine data sets deriving from positive and negative ionization mode. The software is exemplarily applied in a metabolic case study, where octadecanoids could be identified as markers for wounding in plants.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bc/1a/PMC3328170.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3022163", "abstract": "The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relation between gender and plaque characteristics assessed by virtual histology-intravascular ultrasound (VH-IVUS) in patients with stable angina pectoris. Preinterventional VH-IVUS image was available for analysis in 88 men and 60 women patients. Women had significantly smaller vessel volume (12.7 ± 3.9 versus 14.5 ± 4.2 mm3/mm, P = .01) and smaller plaque volume (8.4 ± 3.5 versus 9.7 ± 3.5 mm3/mm, P = .04). However, these differences were no longer significant when corrected for body surface area (BSA). In VH-IVUS analysis, women had significantly higher dense calcium when corrected for BSA in the culprit lesion (volume: 0.32 ± 0.26 versus 0.44 ± 0.40 mm3/mm/BSA, P = .03; proportion: 8.2 ± 6.1 versus 11.2 ± 7.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/07/a4/PMC3022163.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3297411", "abstract": "We retrospectively reviewed 107 diabetic patients who received a split thickness skin graft (STSG) for treatment of a non-healing diabetic foot or leg ulcer to describe healing times based on patient characteristics, comorbidities or complications. The minimum follow-up was 6 months from the time of STSG application. The mean time to healing among all patients was 5.1 weeks (3 to 16 weeks). The mean healing time for patients with complications was 12.0 weeks (10 to 16 weeks) while the mean healing time for those without complications was 4.9 weeks (3 to 10 weeks). Overall complication rate was 2.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/92/89/DFA-3-10204.PMC3297411.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2977985", "abstract": "We investigated the mobility and phase-partitioning of the fluorescent oxidized phospholipid analogue 1-palmitoyl-2-glutaroyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-N-Alexa647-ethanolamine (PGPE-Alexa647) in supported lipid bilayers. Compared to the conventional phospholipid dihexadecanoylphosphoethanolamine (DHPE)-Bodipy we found consistently higher diffusion constants. The effect became dramatic when immobile obstacles were inserted into the bilayer, which essentially blocked the diffusion of DHPE-Bodipy but hardly influenced the movements of PGPE-Alexa647. In a supported lipid bilayer made of 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC), the differences in probe mobility leveled off with increasing cholesterol content. Using coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, we could ascribe this effect to increased interactions between the oxidized phospholipid and the membrane matrix, concomitant with a translation in the headgroup position of the oxidized phospholipid: at zero cholesterol content, its headgroup is shifted to the outside of the DOPC headgroup region, whereas increasing cholesterol concentrations pulls the headgroup into the bilayer plane.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/be/59/PMC2977985.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4284006", "abstract": "Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The pathogenesis of CAD relates to the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in the coronary arteries, which are most frequently treated today by percutaneous coronary intervention. Small vessel disease treatment represents one-third of all percutaneous coronary interventions with higher rates of restenosis and major adverse cardiac events. Initially, drug-eluting stents (DES) were developed to reduce in-stent restenosis, improving clinical outcomes and reducing the need for target vessel revascularization. However, late and very late stent thrombosis emerged as a new problem compromising DES’s long-term results. The cobalt–chromium everolimus-eluting stent (CoCr-EES) represents the results of an evolutionary process in DES technology aimed at improving the shortcomings of first-generation DES. Small vessel CAD has historically been an obstacle to long-term patency following implantation of DES. Antirestenotic efficacy has been shown to be of high relevance in small vessels. Therefore, stent selection may play an important role in determining outcomes in this subgroup of patients. This article will review the performance of CoCr-EES in the treatment of small vessel CAD from preclinical, clinical, and pathology perspectives, and it will highlight the most important findings in this regard.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/67/18/mder-8-037.PMC4284006.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5179489", "abstract": "PURPOSE The aim of this study was to compare the efficacies of two-implant splinting (2-IS) and single-implant restoration (1-IR) in the first and second molar regions over a mean functional loading period (FLP) of 40 months, and to propose the appropriate clinical considerations for the splinting technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS The following clinical factors were examined in the 1-IR and 2-IS groups based on the total hospital records of the patients: sex, mean age, implant location, FLP, bone grafting, clinical crown-implant ratio, crown height space, and horizontal distance. The mechanical complications [i.e., screw loosening (SL), screw fracture, crown fracture, and repeated SL] and biological complications [i.e., peri-implant mucositis (PM) and peri-implantitis (PI)] were also evaluated for each patient. In analysis of two groups, the chi-square test and Student's t-test were used to identify the relationship between clinical factors and complication rates. The optimal cutoff value for the FLP based on complications was evaluated using receiver operating characteristics analysis. RESULTS In total, 234 patients with 408 implants that had been placed during 2005 - 2014 were investigated. The incident rates of SL (P<.001), PM (P=.002), and PI (P=.046) differed significantly between the 1-IR and 2-IS groups. The FLP was the only meaningful clinical factor for mechanical and biological complication rates in 2-IS. CONCLUSION The mechanical complication rates were lower for 2-IS than for 1-IR, while the biological complication rates were higher for 2-IS. FLP of 39.80 and 46.57 months were the reference follow-up periods for preventing biological and mechanical complications, respectively.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/a9/a2/jap-8-494.PMC5179489.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4239779", "abstract": "Toll-like receptors play an important role in the host defense against microorganisms. Sepsis remains a common cause of mortality in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated with intensive induction chemotherapy. The expression of TLRs and their association with the development of sepsis in patients with acute myeloid leukemia remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between expression of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 and occurrence of sepsis in patients treated with intensive induction chemotherapy for AML. A total of 103 patients with newly diagnosed AML were evaluated. Bone marrow samples were taken before induction therapy. Using quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR, the mRNA expression of genes TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 was measured. Neutropenic fever occurred in 98 patients. We identified 20 episodes of severe sepsis (20 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/10/a1/PMC4239779.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4943299", "abstract": "A 21-year-old woman developed simultaneous rhegmatogenous retinal detachment after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in both eyes. She underwent pars plana vitrectomy surgery combined with endolaser photocoagulation and silicone oil tamponade in the right eye. A week later, pneumatic retinopexy was done in the left eye. As the retinal tear did not seal, 360° scleral buckling surgery was performed and retina was attached. Bilateral simultaneous rhegmatogenous retinal detachment after LASIK for correction of myopia can be a serious complication. Patients should be informed about the possibility of this complication.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f3/f6/cop-0007-0341.PMC4943299.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4847605", "abstract": "Purpose We report an unusual case of bilateral vertical lacquer crack with no history of ocular trauma and with progressive marked enlargement and consequent visual loss. Methods Three-year follow-up was completed using best-corrected visual acuity, serial fundus photographs, intravenous fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography. Results We report the occurrence of lacquer crack in a 43-year-old woman with no history of trauma except for laser in situ keratomileusis surgery for mild myopia (as reported by the patient) in the past 5 years and habitual ocular rubbing. Lacquer crack started in the right eye and became evident 1 year later in the left eye. Serial photography after repeated intravitreal injections of ranibizumab for subfoveal choroidal new vessel showed the lacquer crack widened gradually in both eyes. Axial length measurement revealed the presence of high myopia. Best-corrected visual acuity dropped to 20/200 bilaterally. Conclusion We hypothesize that a thin Bruch’s membrane in high myopia is prone for small rupture initially either spontaneously or following laser in situ keratomileusis and subsequent widening of the rupture by oculopression and intravitreal injections from rise in intraocular pressure.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/07/0b/imcrj-9-095.PMC4847605.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2730260", "abstract": "In June 1999, the dioxin crisis, caused by dioxin-contaminated feed components, exploded in Belgium, resulting in withdrawal of chicken and eggs from the market. Through the sentinel surveillance system, a decrease in Campylobacter infections during June 1999 was noticed. A model was generated with the reports from preceding years (1994 to 1998), and a prediction of the number of infections in 1999 was calculated. The model shows a significant decline (40", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/79/03/PMC2730260.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2808555", "abstract": "The objectives of this study were to assess the ultrasonographic (US) findings in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) with pes anserinus tendinitis or bursitis (PATB) syndrome and to determine the correlation between the US findings and the response to local corticosteroid injection. We prospectively studied 26 patients with knee OA with clinically diagnosed PATB syndrome. A linear array 7 MHz transducer was used for US examination of the knee. Seventeen patients were injected locally with tramcinolone acetonide in the anserine bursa area. Response to local corticosteroid injection was evaluated by pain visual analog scale (VAS), Western Ontario and MacMaster (WOMAC) osteoarthritis index and Global patient/physician assessment using Likert scale. On US examination, only 2 patients (8.7", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8e/16/jkms-20-109.PMC2808555.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3205686", "abstract": " Purpose. The aim of this study was to analyse the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients with chronic periodontitis prior to and following surgical and/or nonsurgical periodontal therapy for a period of 32 weeks. Methods. GCF samples were obtained from 24 nondiseased and 72 diseased sites of 12 periodontal patients prior to as well as at 6, 16, and 32 weeks following non-surgical and surgical periodontal therapy. IL-6 and IL-8 levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results. Periodontal treatment improved all clinical parameters. Both treatment modalities resulted in similar IL-6 as well as IL-8 levels. Mean IL-6 and IL-8 concentrations were significantly higher in non-diseased compared to diseased sites and increased significantly following treatment in diseased sites. Mean total amounts of IL-6 and IL-8 (TAIL-6, TAIL-8) did not differ significantly between diseased and nondiseased sites, while following therapy TAIL-8 levels decreased significantly. Conclusions. The data suggest that periodontal therapy reduced the levels of IL-8 in GCF. However, a strong relationship between IL-6, IL-8 amounts in GCF and periodontal destruction and inflammation was not found.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/aa/f2/PMC3205686.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3189616", "abstract": "The biochemical transformation of mercury, tin, arsenic and bismuth through formation of volatile alkylated species performs a fundamental role in determining the environmental processing of these elements. While the toxicity of inorganic forms of most of these compounds are well documented (e.g., arsenic, mercury) and some of them are of relatively low toxicity (e.g., tin, bismuth), the more lipid-soluble organometals can be highly toxic.  In the present study we investigated the cyto- and genotoxicity of five volatile metal(loid) compounds: trimethylbismuth, dimethylarsenic iodide, trimethylarsine, tetramethyltin, and dimethylmercury. As far as we know, this is the first study investigating the toxicity of volatile metal(loid) compounds in vitro. Our results showed that dimethylmercury was most toxic to all three used cell lines (CHO-9 cells, CaCo, Hep-G2) followed by dimethylarsenic iodide. Tetramethyltin was the least toxic compound; however, the toxicity was also dependend upon the cell type. Human colon cells (CaCo) were most susceptible to the toxicity of the volatile compounds compared to the other cell lines. We conclude from our study that volatile metal(loid) compounds can be toxic to mammalian cells already at very low concentrations but the toxicity depends upon the metal(loid) species and the exposed cell type.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/60/1a/PMC3189616.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4612705", "abstract": "Acquired methemoglobinemia is a medical emergency, and its prompt recognition and treatment can avoid catastrophic complications including death. However, in mild asymptomatic cases without any comorbid conditions, it would be reasonable to simply observe and treat symptomatically to avoid severe treatment-related complications, especially in patients with suspected glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. We present a case of mild methemoglobinemia in occult G6PD deficiency in which the patient developed hemolysis after treatment with intravenous methylene blue, requiring transfusion.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/64/75/JCHIMP-5-29079.PMC4612705.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4766879", "abstract": "Two new drugs—bedaquiline and delamanid—have recently been approved by stringent regulatory authorities to treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) and recommended by the World Health Organization for use under defined programmatic conditions. Introducing the medications in TB programs worldwide has not kept pace with the need for these drugs. In response, the DR-TB STAT (Drug-Resistant TB Scale-up Treatment Action Team) task force was formed in April 2015 to monitor progress and help overcome challenges. Information was collected from multiple sources and assessed monthly. Some progress has been made in introducing bedaquiline: as of October 2015, a total of 1,258 persons were on the medication under programmatic conditions. For delamanid, >100 patients, but few under programmatic conditions, have received the medication. Coordinated global action might help assist making these medications accessible for persons who need them most.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/4c/16/PMC4766879.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3987358", "abstract": "In developing countries especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection together with limited resources adds to the hindrances in becoming a parent. Although the South African’s Bill of Rights proclaim that South Africans can “make decisions concerning reproduction”; access to and the use of Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART) are viewed in general as excessively expensive, accessible only to the privileged few. A dissection of cost-drivers within an ART laboratory, such as procedures; sperm preparations; laboratory supplies including embryo culture media and cryopreservation are discussed in the current overview. Subject to the nature of an ART practice, i.e. private vs. public/tertiary, the structure of a unit will vary with regards to patient demographics, costs and services offered. The average fees per procedure for 20 practices in the private sector in South Africa are: (i) IUI: € 542 ± €159, (ii) IVF: € 3,255 ± € 576 and (iii) ICSI: €3,302 ± € 625. Laboratory costs can contribute between 35 and 48", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/37/a7/FVVinObGyn-5-91-99.PMC3987358.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4427123", "abstract": "Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is bacterial cell wall component capable of inducing osteoclast formation and pathological bone resorption. Muramyl dipeptide (MDP), the minimal essential structural unit responsible for the immunological activity of peptidoglycans, is ubiquitously expressed by bacterium. In this study, we investigated the effect of MDP in LPS-induced osteoclast formation and bone resorption. LPS was administered with or without MDP into the supracalvariae of mice. The number of osteoclasts, the level of mRNA for cathepsin K and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), the ratio of the bone destruction area, the level of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase form 5b (TRACP 5b), and C-terminal telopeptides fragments of type I collagen as a marker of bone resorption in mice administrated both LPS and MDP were higher than those in mice administrated LPS or MDP alone. On the other hand, MDP had no effect on osteoclastogenesis in parathyroid hormone administrated mice. MDP enhanced LPS-induced receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) expression and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression in vivo and in stromal cells in vitro. MDP also enhanced LPS-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, including ERK, p38, and JNK, in stromal cells. These results suggest that MDP might play an important role in pathological bone resorption in bacterial infection diseases. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/51/e8/PMC4427123.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4842253", "abstract": "Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are among the most important health issues in Turkey. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are less frequently observed in the country. The individuals who had blood transfusions, patients undergoing hemodialysis, and intravenous drug addicted individuals, people who had tattoos/piercings, communal living environments, contamination of a family member, and prisoners are the main risk groups. Objectives The current study aimed to discuss the prevalence and the genotypes of hepatitis and HIV infections among a specific group, namely individuals incarcerated in prisons. Patients and Methods Two-hundred and sixty-six prisoners sentenced for crimes such as robbery, sexual assault, assault substance abuse or selling drugs in the Kahramanmaras closed prison were recruited for the study. Demographic data and the presence of hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV were investigated in the study subjects. Results Out of the 266 cases included in the study, 89.5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/61/28/jjm-09-02-31598.PMC4842253.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4733208", "abstract": "While advancements have been made in some areas of pathology with diagnostic materials being screened using image analysis technologies, the reporting of cultures from agar plates remains a manual process. We compared the results for 2,163 urine cultures read by a reference panel of microbiologists, by the routine laboratory process, and by an automated plate reading system, APAS (LBT Innovations Ltd., South Australia). APAS detected colonies with a sensitivity of 99.1", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/15/ff/zjm300.PMC4733208.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2782193", "abstract": "In our previous study, we have demonstrated that peak inspiratory pressure over birth weight (PIP/kg) and mean airway pressure over birth weight (MAP/kg) were more significant risk factors for the development of neonatal chronic lung disease (CLD) than PIP and MAP. We aimed to develop a scoring method using the modified respiratory variables (SMUMRV) to predict CLD at early postnatal period. From 1997 to 1999, a retrospective review was performed for 197 infants <1,500 g for the development of the SMUMRV based on statistical analysis. From 2000 to 2001, calculated scores on day 4, 7 and 10 of life were obtained prospectively for 107 infants <1,500 g. Predictive values and the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) were determined and compared with the result of the previous regression model. Gestational age, birth weight, 5 min Apgar score, PIP/kg at 12 hr of age, fractional inspired oxygen (FiO2), MAP/kg, modified oxygenation index and ventilatory mode were selected as parameters of SMUMRV. No significant differences of AUCs were found between the SMUMRV and the Yoder model. It is likely that our scoring method provides reliable values for predicting the development of CLD in very low birth weight infants.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/22/72/jkms-20-397.PMC2782193.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4990151", "abstract": "The prevalence of metabolic syndrome, a clustering of three or more risk factors that include abdominal obesity, increased blood pressure, and high levels of glucose, triglycerides, and high-density lipoproteins, has reached dangerous and costly levels worldwide. Increases in morbidity and mortality result from a combination of factors that promote altered glucose metabolism, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction. Although diet and exercise are commonly touted as important determinants in the development of metabolic dysfunction, other environmental factors, including circadian clock disruption and activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) by dietary or other environmental sources, must also be considered. AhR binds a range of ligands, which prompts protein–protein interactions with other Per-Arnt-Sim (PAS)-domain-containing proteins and subsequent transcriptional activity. This review focuses on the reciprocal crosstalk between the activated AhR and the molecular circadian clock. AhR exhibits a rhythmic expression and time-dependent sensitivity to activation by AhR agonists. Conversely, AhR activation influences the amplitude and phase of expression of circadian clock genes, hormones, and the behavioral responses of the clock system to changes in environmental illumination. Both the clock and AhR status and activation play significant and underappreciated roles in metabolic homeostasis. This review highlights the state of knowledge regarding how AhR may act together with the circadian clock to influence energy metabolism. Understanding the variety of AhR-dependent mechanisms, including its interactions with the circadian timing system that promote metabolic dysfunction, reveals new targets of interest for maintenance of healthy metabolism.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d8/8f/PMC4990151.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3913667", "abstract": "Mango malformation is the most important and threatening disease of recent times, primarily because of persistent lacuna in complete understanding of its nature. Diverse Fusarium spp, including F. mangiferae, were found to be associated with the disease. Here, F. mangiferae from mango cv Dashehri was morphologically characterized. Typically, oval-shaped microconidia without septum and crescent-shaped macroconidia with 3-septate were more often observed, whereas not a single chlamydospore was detected. The length and width of micro- and macro-conidia were 7.5, 55, 3.2, and 3.5, respectively. The plant growth regulators such as NAA, GA3, BAP and ethrel were found to induce in vitro germination of conidia of F. mangiferae after 12 h. In contrast, antimalformin silver nitrate (AgNO3) inhibits conidial germination in vitro and none of conidia was germinated beyond 500 ppm, however antimalformin glutathione was highly effective in stimulating conidial germination of F. mangiferae in vitro at > 1000 ppm after 24 h. We observed that the response of F. mangiferae to germinate the conidia in vitro under influence of plant growth regulators and antimalformins is not coincided with earlier findings of reduced disease incidence by exogenous application of these compounds. The present findings do not authenticate the involvement of F. mangiferae in the disease, however hormonal imbalance, most probably ethylene, might be responsible for deformed functional morphology of panicle. Further, a signal transduction mechanism of stress-stimulated ethylene imbalance causing physio-morphological changes in reproductive organs of mango flower and thereby failure of fertilization and fruit set, which needs to be investigated.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/7f/cib-6-e25659.PMC3913667.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4206973", "abstract": "Objective Cervical laminoplasty has been widely accepted as one of the major treatments for cervical myelopathy and various modifications and supplementary procedures have been devised to achieve both proper decompression and stability of the cervical spine. We present the retrospectively analyzed results of a modified unilateral open-door laminoplasty using hydroxyapatite (HA) spacers and malleable titanium miniplates. Methods From June 2008 to May 2012, among patients diagnosed with cervical spondylotic myelopathy and ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament, the patients who received laminoplasty were reviewed. Clinical outcome was assessed using Frankel grade and Japanese Orthopaedic Association score. The radiologic parameters were obtained from plain films, 3-dimensional computed tomography and magnetic resonance images. Results A total of 125 cervical laminae were operated in 38 patients. 11 patients received 4-level laminoplasty and 27 patients received 3-level laminoplasty. Postoperatively, the mean Frankel grade and JOA score were significantly improved from 3.97 to 4.55 and from 12.76 to 14.63, respectively (p<0.001). Radiologically, cervical curvature was worsened from 19.09 to 15.60 (p=0.025). The percentage of range of motion preservation was 73.32±22.39", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/93/70/kjs-11-188.PMC4206973.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3844161", "abstract": " Background. MS incidence has increased among females, suggesting the presence of environmental effect. Object. Regional differences and temporal changes in gender-specific MS incidence were studied in Finland. Methods. Cases from Jan 1, 1981 to Dec 31, 2010 in Pirkanmaa, Seinäjoki and Vaasa districts were included. The standardized incidence rates (SIR), incidences per 105 person years with 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/84/91/PMC3844161.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4719255", "abstract": "Introduction: Distal median nerve masses may be developed post-traumatic or non-traumatic. In this paper, we aim to present a 52 year old female case with a postraumatic neuroma of the median nerve in the left wrist. Case Series: A 52-year-old female patient had accidental incised wound over her left wrist which was primarily sutured. She presented 6 months later with unrelieved pain and growing swelling at the wrist. USG showed solid mass of size 2x3 cms. Intraoperatively the mass was seen to arise from medial nerve and careful excision was done protecting the nerve. At one year follow up the patient is relived of her symptoms with no sensorimotor deficit. Conclusion: Post traumatic neuroma present as unrelieved pain and progressive swelling. A high index of suspicion should be kept in cases of wound that are primarily sutured over an area with superficial nerves. Careful excision of the lesion is very effective in relieving patients symptoms", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5b/70/JOCR-3-38.PMC4719255.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3195536", "abstract": "Molar pregnancies represent a significant burden of disease on the spectrum of gestational trophoblastic diseases. The incidence appears to be higher in women from South Asia. The purpose of our prospective study was to determine the incidence, presentation, and outcomes of all molar pregnancies at our institution. During the study period, there were a total of 16,625 patients admitted to our department; out of whom 85 patients were diagnosed with a molar pregnancy. Vaginal bleeding was the commonest symptom (94.2", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/b8/44/PMC3195536.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3471256", "abstract": "Objective The objectives of the present study were to investigate the annual detection rate of patients with Moyamoya disease (MMD) and to describe the prevalence and epidemiological features of the Moyamoya patients in Korea. Materials and Methods The authors analyzed the epidemiological data of Korean patients taken from the National Health Insurance Corporation in Korea among Moyamoya patients who were treated from 2004 until 2008. Results Based on 2004 data, 2,539 MMD patients were treated in Korea and the prevalence rate was 5.2 per 100,000 people. There were 2,987 in 2005, 3,429 in 2006, 4,051 in 2007, and 4,517 cases in 2008, and the prevalence rates per 100.000 people were 6.3, 7.0, 8.6, and 9.1, for those respective years. This represents an annual increase of 15", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1d/78/jcen-14-75.PMC3471256.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4255509", "abstract": "Objectives: To build decision trees to predict intrauterine disease, based on a clinical data set, and using mathematical software. Methods: Diagnostic algorithms were built and validated using the data of 402 consecutive patients who underwent grey scale ultrasound, followed by colour Doppler, saline infusion sonography (SIS), office hysteroscopy and endometrial sampling. The “final diagnosis” was classified as “abnormal” in case of endometrial polyps, hyperplasia or malignancy or intracavitary myoma. “Pre-test parameters” included patient’s age, weight, length, parity, menopausal status, bleeding symptoms and cervical cytology; “post-test parameters” included ultrasound-, color Doppler-, SIS-, hysteroscopy- findings and histology results after endometrial sampling. Decision Tree #1 was built using both “pre-test” and “post-test” parameters; Tree #2 was only based on “post-test” parameters; Tree #3 was designed without using the hysteroscopy variables. The Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis (Weka) software was used for the development of decision trees. Results: All trees started with an imaging technique: hysteroscopy or SIS. The diagnostic accuracy was 88.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/0c/56/FVVinObGyn-1-182-188.PMC4255509.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4449844", "abstract": "Background: Many children become infected with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) during their childhood. Since the clinical profile of EBV primary infection is challenging, it is important to use the best diagnostic clinical means. Detection of IgM against viral capsid antigen (VCA) by ELISA has been shown to be a reliable method. Objectives: This study was conducted to demonstrate the incidence of EBV primary infection, among suspected patients referred to Namazi hospital, Shiraz, Iran. Patients and Methods: The sample included 346 patients with an age range of 0 to 20 years (6.31 ± 4.66: 10.97 years). A volume of 5 mL of blood was collected from each case. The patients were divided to four age groups. The sera were tested for the presence of VCA-IgM by commercially available Anti-EBV-VCA ELISA kit. Results: The results indicated that 104 (30.0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/91/31/jjm-08-04-16109.PMC4449844.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3372793", "abstract": "Because Mongolia has much higher liver disease burden than any other regions of the world, it is necessary to provide information on real-time situation of chronic liver disease in Mongolia. In this article, we reviewed studies performed in Mongolia from 2000 to 2011 on seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) among healthy individuals and patients with chronic liver diseases, and on the practice patterns for the management of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). According to previous reports, the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV in general population in Mongolia is very high (11.8", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b8/16/kjim-27-121.PMC3372793.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4294648", "abstract": "Background Enhancement of the osteogenic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is highly desirable in the field of bone regeneration. This paper proposes a new approach for the improvement of osteogenesis combining hypergravity with osteoinductive nanoparticles (NPs). Materials and methods In this study, we aimed to investigate the combined effects of hypergravity and barium titanate NPs (BTNPs) on the osteogenic differentiation of rat MSCs, and the hypergravity effects on NP internalization. To obtain the hypergravity condition, we used a large-diameter centrifuge in the presence of a BTNP-doped culture medium. We analyzed cell morphology and NP internalization with immunofluorescent staining and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering, respectively. Moreover, cell differentiation was evaluated both at the gene level with quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and at the protein level with Western blotting. Results Following a 20 g treatment, we found alterations in cytoskeleton conformation, cellular shape and morphology, as well as a significant increment of expression of osteoblastic markers both at the gene and protein levels, jointly pointing to a substantial increment of NP uptake. Taken together, our findings suggest a synergistic effect of hypergravity and BTNPs in the enhancement of the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Conclusion The obtained results could become useful in the design of new approaches in bone-tissue engineering, as well as for in vitro drug-delivery strategies where an increment of nanocarrier internalization could result in a higher drug uptake by cell and/or tissue constructs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/73/40/ijn-10-433.PMC4294648.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4233216", "abstract": "Background This study was to evaluate the association of lumbar spine facet joint osteoarthritis (LSFJOA) identified by multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) with age and low back pain (LBP) in an adult community-based population in Korea. Methods A sample of 472 participants (age range, 20 to 84 years) who underwent MDCT imaging for abdominal or urological lesions, not for chief complaints of LBP, were included in this study. LSFJOA based on MDCT findings was characterized using four grades of osteoarthritis of the facet joints. The prevalence of LSFJOA according to age group (below 40 years, 40-49 years, 50-59 years, 60-69 years, and above 70 years), gender, and spinal level was analyzed using chi-square tests and the association between LBP and LSFJOA adjusting for age, gender, and spine level was analyzed using multiple binary logistic regression test. Results Eighty-three study subjects (17.58", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/35/14/cios-6-385.PMC4233216.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2816880", "abstract": "We evaluated the inflammatory indices according to the fever duration in children with Kawasaki disease (KD), and determined duration when the inflammatory processes in KD reach their peak. Children with KD (n=152) were classified into 7 groups according to fever duration: at the third day or earlier (n=20), fourth (n=33), fifth (n=46), sixth (n=15), seventh (n=15), eighth (n=9), and at the ninth day or later after fever onset (n= 14). The levels of various laboratory indices were determined 3 times: before, 24 hr and 7 days after intravenous immunoglobulin administration (2 g/kg). WBC and neutrophil counts, and C-reactive protein level were the highest at the sixth day. Levels of hemoglobin, albumin, and high density lipoprotein cholestrol were the lowest at the sixth day. Although these indices were not significant statistically between groups, the indices showed either bell-shaped or U-shaped distribution of which peak or trench were at the sixth day. These findiugs showed that the inflammatory processes in KD reach peak on the sixth day of fever onset. This finding is important because a higher single-dose intravenous immunoglobulin treatment before the peak day may help reduce the coronary artery lesions in KD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/05/63/jkms-19-501.PMC2816880.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4197924", "abstract": "Intraoperative extracorporeal autogeneous irradiated bone grafting (IORBG) after femoral tumor resection ultimately sometimes will fail in patients achieving long-term survival. There are several alternative surgical approaches for revision of these reconstructions. In 2002 and 2005, two patients with femoral intercalary resection of malignant tumor (synovial sarcoma and MFH) underwent IORBG reconstruction with intramedullary nail or plate. At 32 and 96 months after IORBG reconstruction, both patients had failed IORBG (pathological fracture) in the femur. We used custom-made endoprostheses in these two patients to reconstruct femoral diaphyseal bone defect after excision of failed IORBG. Follow-up of the patients averaged 40.5 months (range, 39–42 months) after endoprosthetic revision. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scores averaged 75", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/e8/ef/rju014.PMC4197924.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4975153", "abstract": "Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of valproic acid (VPA) use in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Patients and methods This was a prospective, interventional, noncomparative case study. In total, 29 eyes from 29 patients with RP whose best-corrected visual acuities (BCVAs) in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) ranged from 1.0 to 0.16 with visual fields (VFs) of ≤10° (measured using Goldmann perimeter with I4) were recruited. The patients received oral supplementation with 400 mg of VPA daily for 6 months and were followed for an additional 6 months. BCVAs, VFs (measured with the Humphrey field analyzer central 10-2 program), and subjective questionnaires were examined before, during, and after the cessation of VPA supplementation. Results The changes in BCVA and VF showed statistically significant differences during the internal use of VPA, compared with after cessation (P=0.001). With VPA intake, BCVA in logMAR significantly improved from baseline to 6 months (P=0.006). The mean deviation value of the VF significantly improved from baseline to 1 month (P=0.001), 3 months (P=0.004), and 6 months (P=0.004). These efficacies, however, were reversed to the baseline levels after the cessation of VPA intake. There were no significant relations between the mean blood VPA concentrations of each patient and the changes in BCVA and VF. During the internal use of VPA, 15 of 29 patients answered “easier to see”, whereas blurred vision was registered in 21 of 29 patients on cessation. No systemic drug-related adverse events were observed. Conclusion While in use, oral intake of VPA indicated a short-term benefit to patients with RP. It is necessary to examine the effect of a longer VPA supplementation in a controlled study design.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d2/74/opth-10-1375.PMC4975153.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2871552", "abstract": "Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes are connected in a way that is still not completely understood, but insulin resistance has been implicated as a risk factor for developing AD. Here we show an evidence that insulin is capable of reducing cytotoxicity induced by Amyloid-beta  peptides (A-beta) in its oligomeric form in a dose-dependent manner. By TUNEL and biochemical assays we demonstrate that the recovery of the cell viability is obtained by inhibition of intrinsic apoptotic program, triggered by A-beta and involving caspase 9 and 3 activation. A protective role of insulin on mitochondrial damage is also shown by using Mito-red vital dye. Furthermore, A-beta activates the stress inducible Hsp70 protein in LAN5 cells and an overexpression is detectable after the addition of insulin, suggesting that this major induction is the necessary condition to activate a cell survival program. Together, these results may provide opportunities for the design of preventive and therapeutic strategies against AD.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a6/a4/PMC2871552.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3446153", "abstract": "Background Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is the most common vasculitis of childhood. HSP can affect multiple organs presenting with a characteristic rash in most of the patients. Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is an inherited inflammatory disease common in mediterranean populations. HSP is the most common vasculitis seen in children with FMF. Case Presentation A 16 year old boy was referred with history of abdominal pain lasting for 20 days. He was hospitalized and had appendectomy. Due to the persistence of his abdominal pain after surgery he was admitted to our hospital. His physical examination showed palpable purpuric rashes symmetrically distributed on lower extremities. Abdominal examination revealed periumbilical tenderness. Laboratory tests showed elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, Creactive protein and fibrinogen. Urinalysis revealed microscopic hematuria and severe proteinuria. The fecal occult blood testing was positive. Based on these clinic findings, the patient was diagnosed as HSP with renal, gastrointestinal tract and skin involvement. We performed DNA analysis in our patient because he had diagnosis of vasculitis with severe symptoms and found that he was carrying heterozygote P369S mutation. Conclusion Our case is noteworthy as it indicates that it may be important not to overlook presence of FMF mutations in patients with a diagnosis of severe vasculitis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b1/6a/IJPD-21-244.PMC3446153.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3340122", "abstract": "A 39-year-old woman was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis when she was 8 years old. Although many treatments – such as cholinesterase inhibitors and steroids – had been given to the patient, her condition did not improve sufficiently. As she demonstrated bilateral 3 mm levator function without any eye movement disturbances, bilateral frontalis sling procedures were performed with an autologous fascia lata. One year after the operation, the operated upper eyelids showed symmetrically appropriate heights with good functional outcome. A sling procedure with an autologous fascia lata was suitable for correcting poor levator function of an ocular myasthenia gravis case.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e8/80/PMC3340122.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4155989", "abstract": "Background Sacroiliac joint (SI) pain is an often-overlooked cause of lower-back pain, due in part to a lack of specific findings on radiographs and a symptom profile similar to other back-related disorders. A minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approach to SI joint fusion using a series of triangular, titanium plasma spray-coated implants has shown favorable outcomes in patients with SI joint pain refractory to conservative care. The aim of this study was to provide a multicenter experience of MIS SI joint fusion using a patient-level analysis. Patients and methods We report a patient-level analysis from 144 patients with a mean of 16 months postoperative follow-up. Demographic information, perioperative measures, complications, and clinical outcomes using a visual analog scale for pain were collected prospectively. Random-effects regression models were used to account for intersite variability. Results The mean age was 58 years, 71", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cf/51/mder-7-299.PMC4155989.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3417469", "abstract": "Objectives To examine the relationship between “traditional Sami” dietary pattern and mortality in a general northern Swedish population. Study design Population-based cohort study. Methods We examined 77,319 subjects from the Västerbotten Intervention Program (VIP) cohort. A traditional Sami diet score was constructed by adding 1 point for intake above the median level of red meat, fatty fish, total fat, berries and boiled coffee, and 1 point for intake below the median of vegetables, bread and fibre. Hazard ratios (HR) for mortality were calculated by Cox regression. Results Increasing traditional Sami diet scores were associated with slightly elevated all-cause mortality in men [Multivariate HR per 1-point increase in score 1.04 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/bc/6f/IJCH-71-18537.PMC3417469.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3169855", "abstract": "Patient participation is an important basis for nursing care and medical treatment and is a legal right in many Western countries. Studies have established that patients consider participation to be both obvious and important, but there are also findings showing the opposite and patients often prefer a passive recipient role. Knowledge of what may influence patients' participation is thus of great importance. The aim was to identify incidents and nurses' behaviours that influence patients' participation in nursing care based on patients' experiences from inpatient somatic care. The Critical Incident Technique (CIT) was employed. Interviews were performed with patients (n = 17), recruited from somatic inpatient care at an internal medical clinic in West Sweden. This study provided a picture of incidents, nurses' behaviours that stimulate or inhibit patients' participation, and patient reactions on nurses' behaviours. Incidents took place during medical ward round, nursing ward round, information session, nursing documentation, drug administration, and meal.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/cc/35/PMC3169855.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2948913", "abstract": "Long-lived cancer stem cells (CSCs) with indefinite proliferative potential have been identified in multiple epithelial cancer types. These cells are likely derived from transformed adult stem cells and are thought to share many characteristics with their parental population, including a quiescent slow-cycling phenotype. Various label-retaining techniques have been used to identify normal slow cycling adult stem cell populations and offer a unique methodology to functionally identify and isolate cancer stem cells. The quiescent nature of CSCs represents an inherent mechanism that at least partially explains chemotherapy resistance and recurrence in posttherapy cancer patients. Isolating and understanding the cell cycle regulatory mechanisms of quiescent cancer cells will be a key component to creation of future therapies that better target CSCs and totally eradicate tumors. Here we review the evidence for quiescent CSC populations and explore potential cell cycle regulators that may serve as future targets for elimination of these cells.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bb/b4/PMC2948913.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4237979", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE The association between obesity and coronary heart disease (CHD) risk remains debatable, and no studies have assessed this association among diabetic patients. The aim of our study was to investigate the association between BMI and CHD risk among patients with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The sample included 30,434 diabetic patients (10,955 men and 19,479 women) 30–95 years of age without a history of CHD or stroke in the Louisiana State University Hospital-Based Longitudinal Study. RESULTS During a mean follow-up period of 7.3 years, 7,414 subjects developed CHD. The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios for CHD across levels of BMI at baseline (18.5–24.9, 25–29.9, 30–34.9, 35–39.9, and ≥40 kg/m2) were 1.00, 1.14 (95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a8/92/PMC4237979.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2998979", "abstract": "Xanthomatous infiltration may rarely affect the rotator cuff muscles and long head of the biceps tendon. It is the deposition of cholesterol within the rotator cuff muscles and long head of the biceps tendon resulting from hyperlipidemia, specifically high triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. As more commonly seen with xanthomatous infiltration and tear of the Achilles tendon, there may also be an association with rotator cuff tendon deposition and tear. MRI images of xanthomatous infiltration with rotator cuff tear in a 77 year old man with hyperlipidemia are detailed in the following case report.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/38/32/PMC2998979.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC446217", "abstract": "We used contingent valuation technique to estimate the parental willingness to pay for an episode of diarrhoea among 324 children of both sexes aged between five and seven years in two rural villages of Chennai in India. The aim was to examine if there was any gender bias in the parental willingness to treat children for a diarrhoeal episode, and if so to what extent. The willingness to pay was specified as a hedonic function of the duration and severity of an episode, and of parents' socioeconomic characteristics. The findings suggest that parents were willing to pay more to protect their male child compared to the female child suffering from a diarrhoeal episode. The median willingness to pay to avoid an episode for male and female children were calculated at Rs. 33.7 (approx. US0.72) and Rs. 25.2 (approx. US 0.54) respectively – a difference of around 34", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/8d/91/PMC446217.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2874270", "abstract": "Purpose: To report a case of radiation-induced macular ischemia where vision and macular perfusion improved after hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy. Methods: A 62-year-old male patient developed radiation-induced macular ischemia after he was treated with radiation for brain glioma. The patient presented with best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) acuity of 20/400 in his right eye. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed central macular thickness of 468 μm. The patient received focal laser, intravitreal triamcinolone, and HBO therapy. Results: The patient’s vision improved from 20/400 to 20/100 after focal laser and intravitreal triamcinolone. His central macular thickness improved from 468 μm to 132 μm. After receiving HBO therapy, his VA improved to 20/50 and fluorescein angiography showed improvement in macular perfusion. Conclusion: HBO therapy improves macular perfusion in patients with radiation-induced macular ischemia.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/d8/20/PMC2874270.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3010674", "abstract": "The aim of this systematic review is to examine the efficacy of Garcinia extract, hydroxycitric acid (HCA) as a weight reduction agent, using data from randomised clinical trials (RCTs). Electronic and nonelectronic searches were conducted to identify relevant articles, with no restrictions in language or time. Two independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed the methodological quality of included studies. Twenty-three eligible trials were identified and twelve were included. Nine trials provided data suitable for statistical pooling. The meta-analysis revealed a small, statistically significant difference in weight loss favouring HCA over placebo (MD:  −0.88 kg; 95", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/58/f7/PMC3010674.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3090296", "abstract": "We present a case of diabetic macular edema in a pregnant patient treated with a single intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonomide. Initial presentation and serial examinations after treatment included visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, indirect ophthalmoscopy, and optical coherence tomography. Resolution of visual acuity and macular edema were present six weeks after injection and persisted throughout the duration of the pregnancy without further intervention. No adverse outcomes for either mother or fetus were noted. To our knowledge, this is the first report of intravitreal triamcinolone administration in this patient population to be published in the medical literature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2f/38/PMC3090296.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3225455", "abstract": "Purpose We report choroidal findings by means of enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) in a patient with idiopathic uveal effusion syndrome (IUES). Case report A 41-year-old man was referred to us with ciliochoroidal and non-rhegmatogenous retinal detachments. Sclerectomies and sclerostomies were performed at the equator in the lower quadrants, resulting in resolution of the ciliochoroidal and retinal detachments. EDI-OCT demonstrated low-reflective areas in the outer choroid. The subfoveal choroidal thickness measured vertically from the outer border of the RPE to the inner border of the sclera was 787 μm which was significantly thicker than the normal value (272 ± 90 μm, n = 131) obtained from age-matched normal controls. Conclusions The findings made by EDI-OCT have provided additional evidence that choroidal alterations play a role in the pathological process in IUES.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5f/ac/PMC3225455.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3166759", "abstract": "Topoisomerase 1 (Top1) enzymes regulate DNA superhelicity by forming covalent cleavage complexes that undergo controlled rotation.  Substitution of nucleoside analogs at the +1 position of the DNA duplex relative to the Top1 cleavage site inhibits DNA religation. The reduced efficiency for Top1-mediated religation contributes to the anticancer activity of widely used anticancer drugs including fluoropyrimidines and gemcitabine. In the present study, we report that mismatched base pairs at the +1 position destabilize the duplex DNA components for a model Top1 cleavage complex formation even though one duplex component does not directly include a mismatched base pair. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal G-dU and G-FdU mismatched base pairs, but not a G-T mismatched base pair, increase flexibility at the Top1 cleavage site, and affect coupling between the regions required for the religation reaction to occur. These results demonstrate that substitution of dT analogs into the +1 position of the non-scissile strand alters the stability and flexibility of DNA contributing to the reduced efficiency for Top1-mediated DNA religation. These effects are inherent in the DNA duplex and do not require formation of the Top1:DNA complex. These results provide a biophysical rationale for the inhibition of Top1-mediated DNA religation by nucleotide analog substitution.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0e/75/PMC3166759.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4628148", "abstract": "Leptospirosis, a disease of great significance in tropical countries, presents commonly as a biphasic illness with acute febrile episode in the first phase followed by a brief afebrile period and then by the second phase of fever with or without jaundice and renal failure. However, it has varied manifestations and unusual clinical features ascribed to immunological phenomena can occur due to the additional involvement of pulmonary, cardiovascular, and neurological systems. Among the various neurological features, aseptic meningitis is the most common myeloradiculopathy, myelopathy, cerebellar dysfunction, transverse myelitis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, optic neuritis, peripheral neuropathy hare also described. Cranial neuropathy involving facial nerve is a rare, but known neurological manifestation. Sixth nerve palsy in neuroleptospirosis has so far not been reported. We hereby present the occurrence of bilateral abducent nerve palsy in a patient with leptospirosis.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/c3/e4/IJMS-40-544.PMC4628148.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3257900", "abstract": "Background The incidence and risk factors of suicide reattempts within 1 year after psychiatric hospital discharge in mood disorder patients remain uninvestigated in Thailand. Objective To determine incidence and risk factors of suicide reattempts within 1 year after psychiatric hospital discharge in mood disorder patients. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted by reviewing medical charts at Suanprung Psychiatric Hospital, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Mood disorder patients, diagnosed with the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th Revision codes F31.x, F32.x, and F33.x, who were admitted owing to suicide attempts between October 2006 and May 2009 were eligible. The influence of sociodemographic and clinical risk factors on suicide reattempts was investigated using Cox’s proportional-hazards regression analysis. Results Of 235 eligible mood disorder patients, 36 (15.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/e7/63/PMC3257900.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3322009", "abstract": "We studied the potential of red deer as bluetongue maintenance hosts and sentinels. Deer maintained detectable bluetongue virus (BTV) serotype 4 RNA for 1 year after the virus was cleared from livestock. However, the virus was not transmitted to yearlings. BTV serotype 1 RNA was detected in red deer immediately after its first detection in cattle.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/b1/PMC3322009.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4745531", "abstract": "The street foods play an important socioeconomic role in meeting food and nutritional requirements of city consumers at affordable prices to the lower and middle income people. The number of food poisoning notifications rose steadily worldwide since the inception of E. coli O157:H7 outbreak in the 1980s to date. This may be partly attributed to improved surveillance, increased global trade and travel, changes in modern food production, the impact of modern lifestyles, changes in food consumption, and the emergence of new pathogens. Consumer's knowledge and attitude may influence food safety behavior and practice. For the sake of public health, it is important to understand the epidemiology of foodborne illnesses that help in prevention and control efforts, appropriately allocating resources to control foodborne illness, monitoring and evaluation of food safety measures, development of new food safety standards, and assessment of the cost-effectiveness of interventions. This review paper described the sociodemographic characteristics, common hazards, and occupational hazards of street food vendors, microbial risk associated with street food, food safety interventions and control measures, regulatory aspects and legal requirements, financial constraints, and attitudes.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/80/04/PMC4745531.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3541711", "abstract": "Granulocyte-monocyte apheresis is a relatively new therapy that has been proposed, sometimes with controversial results, for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, particularly ulcerative colitis. The aim of the present study was to perform a thorough review of the literature on the application of this type of treatment in ulcerative colitis and discuss the results, in order to provide an opinion on its use which is shared by the involved experts. The review of the literature was performed by searching PubMed with appropriate key words. The results obtained suggest that the major role for this treatment at this moment is for those patients with steroid dependency or with major contraindications to use of steroids. However, promising, albeit very preliminary, results have also been observed in steroid-naïve subjects, and this is of particular interest in consideration of the safety profile of this therapeutic method. As such, the Adacolumn may prove useful in specific subgroups of patients. Future phenotypic, genotypic, and molecular characterization of patients with inflammatory bowel disease might prove useful in defining better those subjects who might benefit most from this treatment modality.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/97/ff/PMC3541711.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2822247", "abstract": "X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (X-SCID) is a rare, life-threatening immune disorder, caused by mutations in the γc chain gene, which encodes an essential component of the cytokine receptors for interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, IL-15, and IL-21. A 13-month-old boy with recurrent infections who had reduced serum immunoglobulin levels and decreased numbers of CD3, CD16/56 cells was evaluated for γc chain gene mutation and protein expression. The patient had a C-to-T point mutation at nucleotide position 690, one of the hot spots, resulting in a single amino acid substitution of cysteine for arginine (R226C), as determined by direct sequencing and PCR-RFLP. The patient's mother was a heterozygous carrier. Percutaneous umbilical cord blood sampling was performed at the 6-month of gestation in a subsequent pregnancy. As the immunophenotype of the fetus showed an identical pattern, the pregnancy was terminated and genetic analysis of the abortus confirmed recurrence. This is the first report of the molecular diagnosis of X-SCID in Korea. Genetic analysis of the γc chain gene is useful for definite diagnosis and genetic counseling for X-SCID.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/1b/2b/jkms-19-123.PMC2822247.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3322741", "abstract": "Geographic variation in drug susceptibility among isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae has influenced national treatment guidelines for community-acquired pneumonia. Whether individual hospital susceptibility data provide reliable and valid information for providers is unclear. We examined the geographic and temporal variability in hospital-reported rates of pneumococcal susceptibility. We surveyed all 52 hospitals that provided acute adult care in the five counties surrounding Philadelphia and collected data on levels of penicillin susceptibility among all pneumococcal blood isolates from 1998 to 2000. In 1998, pneumococcal nonsusceptibility to penicillin varied from 0", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/6a/75/PMC3322741.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2796346", "abstract": " \t\t\t\t\tTaenia solium cysticercosis is a health problem in underdeveloped and developed countries. Sex hormones are involved in cysticercosis prevalence in female and male pigs. Here, we evaluated the effects of progesterone and its antagonist RU486 on scolex evagination, which is the initial step in the development of the adult worm. Interestingly, progesterone increased T. solium scolex evagination and worm growth, in a concentration-independent pattern. Progesterone effects could be mediated by a novel T. solium progesterone receptor (TsPR), since RU486 inhibits both scolex evagination and worm development induced by progesterone. Using RT-PCR and western blot, sequences related to progesterone receptor were detected in the parasite. A phylogenetic analysis reveals that TsPR is highly related to fish and amphibian progesterone receptors, whereas it has a distant relation with birds and mammals. Conclusively, progesterone directly acts upon T. solium cysticerci, possibly through its binding to a progesterone receptor synthesized by the parasite.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a4/21/PMC2796346.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3169971", "abstract": "Objective: Costly biologic therapies have improved function and quality of life for patients suffering from rheumatic and inflammatory bowel diseases. In this survey, we aimed to document and analyze the costs. Methods: In 2008, the total costs of tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors and other biologic agents in Norway were registered prospectively. In addition to costs, the pattern of use in the four Norwegian health regions was analyzed. The expenses were calculated in Norwegian krone and converted into Euros. Results: The pattern of use was similar in all four regions, indicating that national guidelines are followed. Whereas the cost was similar in the southeast, western, and central regions, the expenses per thousand inhabitants were 1.56 times higher in the northern region. This indicates that patients in the northern region experienced a lower threshold for access to these drugs. The gap in costs between trusts within northern Norway was about to be closed. The Departments of Rheumatology and Gastroenterology had the highest consumption rates. Conclusion: The total cost of biologic agents was significant. Northern Norway had among the highest consumption rates worldwide. This can partly be explained. Further exploration calls for a national registry for the use of these drugs.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/07/fa/PMC3169971.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2882547", "abstract": "OBJECTIVES To identify the most cited articles in general surgery published by Brazilian authors. INTRODUCTION There are several ways for the international community to recognize the quality of a scientific article. Although controversial, the most widely used and reliable methodology to identify the importance of an article is citation analysis. METHODS A search using the Institute for Scientific Information citation database (Science Citation Index Expanded) was performed to identify highly cited Brazilian papers published in twenty-six highly cited general surgery journals, selected based on their elevated impact factors, from 1970 to 2009. Further analysis was done on the 65 most-cited papers. RESULTS We identified 1,713 Brazilian articles, from which nine papers emerged as classics (more than 100 citations received). For the Brazilian contributions, a total increase of about 21-fold was evident between 1970 and 2009. Although several topics were covered, articles covering trauma, oncology and organ transplantation were the most cited. The majority of classic studies were done with international cooperation. CONCLUSIONS This study identified the most influential Brazilian articles published in internationally renowned general surgery journals.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/cd/1f/cln_65p521.PMC2882547.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4058452", "abstract": "Mucosal surfaces in the airways and the gastrointestinal tract are critical for the interactions of the host with its environment. Due to their abundance at mucosal tissue sites and their powerful immunomodulatory capacities, the role of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and natural killer T (NKT) cells in the maintenance of mucosal tolerance has recently moved into the focus of attention. While NKT cells as well as ILCs utilize distinct transcription factors for their development and lineage diversification, both cell populations can be further divided into three polarized subpopulations reflecting the distinction into Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells in the adaptive immune system. While bystander activation through cytokines mediates the induction of ILC and NKT cell responses, NKT cells become activated also through the engagement of their canonical T cell receptors (TCRs) by (glyco)lipid antigens (cognate recognition) presented by the atypical MHC I like molecule CD1d on antigen presenting cells (APCs). As both innate lymphocyte populations influence inflammatory responses due to the explosive release of copious amounts of different cytokines, they might represent interesting targets for clinical intervention. Thus, we will provide an outlook on pathways that might be interesting to evaluate in this context.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/be/80/PMC4058452.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3342356", "abstract": "While dendritic cells (DC) are central to the induction and regulation of adaptive immunity, these cells are very heterogenous and specific subsets can be characterized based on the expression of cell surface markers and functional properties. Intestinal CD103+ DCs are the subject of particular interest due to their role in regulating mucosal immunity. Since the epithelial surfaces are constantly exposed to a high antigenic load, tight regulation of innate and adaptive intestinal immune responses is vital as intestinal inflammation can have detrimental consequences for the host. Strategically positioned within the lamina propria, CD103+ DCs play an important role in maintaining intestinal immune homeostasis. These cells are required for the induction of tolerogenic immune responses and imprinting gut homing phenotypic changes on antigen-specific T cells. Recent insights into their development and regulatory properties have revealed additional immunoregulatory roles and further highlighted their importance for intestinal immunity. In this review we discuss the nature of the intestinal CD103+ DC population and the emerging roles of these cells in the regulation of mucosal immunity.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/86/37/PMC3342356.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4307105", "abstract": "Background Although the incidence of cervical cancer has reduced during last years, but it causes mortality among women. Many efforts have performed to develop new drugs and strategy for treatment of cervical cancer. Adipose Tissue-Derived mouse Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) has many advantages which make them a suitable choice as a cell therapeutic agent in cancer treatment. In this study, we aimed to develop an improved protocol for Mouse MSCs transduction as well as assess the homing capacity and incorporation of MSCs in cervical cancer model. Methods MScs were isolated from the mouse adipose tissue and characterized by differentiation and flow cytometry. In our study, lentiviral vector transductions of MSCs performed. Their penetrations were detected in tissue sections after injection of transduced MSCs to female C57BL/6 mice as a cervical cancer model. Results Results showed that MSCs were efficiently transduced with lentiviral vector resulting in efficient tumor penetration. Conclusion The results provide evidence that MSCs were able to penetrate into the tumor mass of cervical tumor model and are good vehicles for gene transfer to cervical cancer.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/07/76/IJCP-07-225.PMC4307105.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4101247", "abstract": "The strategy for the follow-up of soft tissue sarcomas (STS) after therapy is tailored to the individual risk of recurrence and based on efficient rather than sophisticated methods of observation. Along with advances in the treatment of sarcomas, earlier detection of a less advanced and resectable recurrent disease (local or metastasis—especially to the lungs) can prolong patient survival. Since the majority of STS relapses occur within 5 years after treatment (approximately 80 ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/32/bd/12254_2014_Article_146.PMC4101247.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3125807", "abstract": "The National Center for Biomedical Ontology (NCBO) is one of the National Centers for Biomedical Computing funded under the NIH Roadmap Initiative. Contributing to the national computing infrastructure, NCBO has developed BioPortal, a web portal that provides access to a library of biomedical ontologies and terminologies (http://bioportal.bioontology.org) via the NCBO Web services. BioPortal enables community participation in the evaluation and evolution of ontology content by providing features to add mappings between terms, to add comments linked to specific ontology terms and to provide ontology reviews. The NCBO Web services (http://www.bioontology.org/wiki/index.php/NCBO_REST_services) enable this functionality and provide a uniform mechanism to access ontologies from a variety of knowledge representation formats, such as Web Ontology Language (OWL) and Open Biological and Biomedical Ontologies (OBO) format. The Web services provide multi-layered access to the ontology content, from getting all terms in an ontology to retrieving metadata about a term. Users can easily incorporate the NCBO Web services into software applications to generate semantically aware applications and to facilitate structured data collection.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/19/39/gkr469.PMC3125807.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5240321", "abstract": "Purpose Preoperative on-screen templating is a method of using acetate templates on digital images. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the accuracy, intra- and interobserver reliabilities of preoperative on-screen templating using digital radiographs for total hip arthroplasty (THA). Materials and Methods Two hundred patients with hip disease who were treated with primary cementless THA were retrospectively evaluated. The accuracy of on-screen templating was assessed by comparing the predicted prosthesis sizes with the actual sizes used operatively. The inter- and intraobserver reliabilities of the templating results were also evaluated. Results The prosthesis prediction accuracy within ±one size was 96.6", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/05/06/hp-28-201.PMC5240321.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2365696", "abstract": "Eight sesquiterpene quinones: ilimaquinone (1), smenospongidine (3), smenospongiarine (5), smenospongine (7), and their corresponding 5-epimers 2, 4, 6, and 8, isolated from the Palauan marine sponge Hippospongia sp., were examined regarding their effects on TNF-α production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. 5-Epi-smenospongine (8) promoted the production of TNF-α to a level three times greater than the control at 10 μM, but compounds 1–7 did not show apparent activity. The results suggest that the cis-decaline ring and a primary amine in the benzoquinone ring are necessary for activity. This is the first study to report the modulation of TNF-α production by a sesquiterpene quinone.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/18/09/PMC2365696.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4037604", "abstract": " Objectives. Hollow space between implant and abutment may act as reservoir for commensal and/or pathogenic bacteria representing a potential source of tissue inflammation. Microbial colonization of the interfacial gap may ultimately lead to infection and bone resorption. Using Rhodamine B, a sensitive fluorescent tracer dye, we aim in this study to investigate leakage at implant-abutment connection of three implant systems having the same prosthetic interface. Materials and Methods. Twenty-one implants (seven Astra Tech, seven Euroteknika, and seven Dentium) with the same prosthetic interface were connected to their original abutments, according to the manufacturers' recommendation. After determination of the inner volume of each implant systems, the kinetic quantification of leakage was evaluated for each group using Rhodamine B (10−2 M). For each group, spectrophotometric analysis was performed to detect leakage with a fluorescence spectrophotometer at 1 h (T0) and 48 h (T1) of incubation time at room temperature. Results. Astra Tech had the highest inner volume (6.8 μL), compared to Dentium (4 μL) and Euroteknika (2.9 μL). At T0 and T1, respectively, the leakage volume and percentage of each system were as follows: Astra Tech 0.043 μL or 1.48", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/5a/83/PMC4037604.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4733755", "abstract": "Background: Generally, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be the preferable method to treat partial globozoospermia, but whether there exist some correlations between ICSI fertilization rate and the proportion of round-headed sperm or morphologically normal sperm remains open. This study was to explore the correlation between ICSI fertilization rate and the sperm morphology in patients with partial globozoospermia. Methods: Thirty-four patients diagnosed with partial globozoospermia accepted the following assisted fertilization treatments – 2 cases accepted in-vitro fertilization (IVF) alone, 26 cases accepted ICSI alone, and 6 accepted split IVF/ICSI. Detailed morphological characteristics were described using Diff-Quik rapid staining. Sixty cases accepting IVF or ICSI treatment in our reproductive center were considered as the control group after being matched by relevant criteria. Fertilization rate, embryo quality, embryo implantation rate and clinical pregnancy rate were calculated. Results: Besides very high proportion of round-headed sperm, partial globozoospermia also showed very high proportion of small-acrosomal sperm and very low proportion of morphologically normal sperm. Fertilization rate of IVF (IVF alone plus split IVF) was very low in partial globozoospermia (25.4", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/85/96/CMJ-128-1590.PMC4733755.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4430667", "abstract": "Statin therapy improves lipid profiles and reduces vascular inflammation, but its effects on central arterial stiffness in type 2 diabetes are unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether statin therapy reduces central arterial stiffness, in a dose-dependent manner, in male patients with type 2 diabetes. Fifty-one patients ceased statin therapy for 6 weeks, followed by randomisation to either 10 or 80 mg of atorvastatin. At randomization, 3 and 12 months, central arterial stiffness was measured via carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), along with serum markers of vascular inflammation including high-sensitivity c-reactive protein (hsCRP) and osteoprotegerin (OPG). PWV decreased from 10.37 ± 1.30 to 9.68 ± 1.19 m/sec (p < 0.01 from baseline) at 3 months and 9.10 ± 1.17 m/sec (p < 0.001 from baseline) at 12 months. hsCRP and OPG decreased significantly at 3 and 12 months. Reductions in PWV did not differ significantly between the groups. Baseline PWV and OPG values correlated strongly (r = 0.48, p < 0.01), as did their response to atorvastatin over 12 months (r = 0.36 delta-OPG and delta-PWV, p < 0.01). Atorvastatin therapy appeared to reduce central arterial stiffness in male type 2 diabetes, with no dose-dependent effect observed. The correlation observed between reductions in PWV and OPG suggests that atorvastatin reduces PWV via direct anti-inflammatory effects on the vasculature.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/eb/a9/PMC4430667.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3470287", "abstract": " Background: Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) has been used as a reliable screening tool for postpartum depression in many countries. This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties and diagnostic accuracy of the EPDS in a sample of Iranian women.  Methods: Using stratified sampling 262 postpartum women (2 weeks-3 months after delivery) were selected from urban and rural health center in the city of Isfahan. They were interviewed using EPDS and Hamilton depression rating scale (HDRS). Data were assessed using factor analysis, diagnosis analysis of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, Cronbach's alpha and Pearson correlation coefficient.  Results: The age of then participants ranged 18-45 years (26.6±5.1). Based on a cut-off point of >13 for HDRS, 18.3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/fd/de/PMC3470287.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5201077", "abstract": "Dacron grafts have been used as a conduit for large caliber arteries for many years successfully. However, these grafts can undergo complications such as aneurysm formation, rupture, and failure. Evaluation of these complications are of paramount importance because of its tendency to rupture and cause death. Imaging plays an important role in identifying and monitoring of these complications, and also provides a road map to the vascular surgeons for early intervention and revascularization.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/2d/c4/IJRI-26-472.PMC5201077.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3124883", "abstract": "Acetaldehyde (ethanal) is a genotoxic carcinogen, which may occur naturally or as an added flavour in foods. We have developed an efficient method to analyze the compound in a wide variety of food matrices. The analysis is conducted using headspace (HS) gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization detector. Using a robot autosampler, the samples are digested in full automation with simulated gastric fluid (1 h at 37°C) under shaking, which frees acetaldehyde loosely bound to matrix compounds. Afterwards, an aliquot of the HS is injected into the GC system. Standard addition was applied for quantification to compensate for matrix effects. The precision of the method was sufficient (<3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/f6/9a/PMC3124883.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC5116452", "abstract": "Electromagnetic tracking (EMT) is used in several medical fields to determine the position and orientation of dedicated sensors, e.g., attached to surgical tools. Recently, EMT has been introduced to brachytherapy for implant reconstruction and error detection. The manuscript briefly summarizes the main issues of EMT and error detection in brachytherapy. The potential and complementarity of EMT as treatment verification technology will be discussed in relation to in vivo dosimetry and imaging.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/d9/b1/JCB-8-28638.PMC5116452.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC2845763", "abstract": "OBJECTIVE: To analyze the incidence, clinical significance, and clinical manifestations of pathological synovial plicae of the knee. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 2002 and 2006, 63 patients with pathological synovial plicae of the knee were studied. Of those 63 patients, 21 had the diagnosis confirmed by previously performed magnetic resonance imaging. All of the patients initially underwent conservative treatment for 90 days that involved strengthening and improving the flexibility of the muscles surrounding the knee as well as modification of their sports activities. RESULTS: A total of 55 patients improved after conservative treatment. Six of these patients eventually experienced a recurrence of symptoms, but the symptoms were not incapacitating in any of these patients. The other eight patients underwent arthroscopic removal of the synovial plica. Of these eight patients, six returned to their pretreatment physical activities, and two had persistent symptoms during physical activity. CONCLUSION: The presence of a synovial plica of the knee should be considered as a potential diagnosis in patients with knee pain, especially those who practice sports inappropriately. Conservative treatment is effective in most cases, and surgical treatment should be reserved for exceptional cases that do not improve with conservative treatment.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/a0/89/PMC2845763.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3111669", "abstract": "More than a decade has passed since Zic family zinc finger proteins were discovered to be transcription factors controlling neuroectodermal differentiation (neural induction) in Xenopus laevis embryos. Although BMP-signal blocking has been shown to be a major upregulator of Zic genes in neuroectodermal differentiation, recent studies have revealed that FGF signaling and intracellular calcium elevation are also involved in regulating the expression of Zic genes. Different regulatory mechanisms have been found for the Zic1 and Zic3 genes, raising the possibility that functional synergism between them partly accounts for the integration of BMP-signal blocking and FGF signaling in neuroectodermal differentiation. Furthermore, mammalian Zic1 and Zic3 have been found to be neural-cell-fate-inducing and pluripotency-maintaining factors, respectively, leading us to the intriguing question of whether the mechanism underlying amphibian neuroectodermal differentiation is applicable to mammals. Comprehensive understanding of the Zic family genes is therefore essential for the study of the neuroectodermal differentiation and stem cell biology.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/8c/41/11064_2011_Article_422.PMC3111669.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4282879", "abstract": "Introduction Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes (PNS) are neurologic deficits triggered by an underlying remote tumor. PNS can antedate clinical manifestation of ovarian malignancy and enable its diagnosis at an early stage. Interestingly, neoplasms associated with PNS are less advanced and metastasize less commonly than those without PNS. This suggests that PNS may be associated with a naturally occurring antitumor response. Methods We review the literature on the diagnosis, pathogenesis and management of PNS associated with ovarian tumors: paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration (PCD) and anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis. An approach to the diagnostic workup of underlying tumors is discussed. Results PCD can precede the manifestation of ovarian carcinoma. Anti-NMDAR encephalitis in young women appears often as a result of ovarian teratoma. Since ovarian tumors and nervous tissue share common antigens (e.g., cdr2, NMDAR), autoimmune etiology is a probable mechanism of these neurologic disorders. The concept of cross-presentation, however, seems insufficient to explain entirely the emergence of PNS. Early resection of ovarian tumors is a significant part of PNS management and improves the outcome. Conclusions The diagnosis of PNS potentially associated with ovarian tumor indicates a need for a thorough diagnostic procedure in search of the neoplasm. In some patients, explorative laparoscopy/laparotomy can be considered. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/65/d3/PMC4282879.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4129382", "abstract": "We report converging evidence that higher stages of the visual system are critically required for the whole to become more than the sum of its parts by studying patient DF with visual agnosia using a configural superiority paradigm. We demonstrate a clear dissociation between this patient and normal controls such that she could more easily report information about parts, demonstrating a striking reversal of the normal configural superiority effect. Furthermore, by comparing DF's performance to earlier neuroimaging and novel modeling work, we found a compelling consistency between her performance and representations in the early visual areas, which are spared in this patient. The reversed pattern of performance in this patient highlights that in some cases visual Gestalts do not emerge early on without processing in higher visual areas. More broadly, this study demonstrates how neuropsychological patients can be used to unmask representations maintained at early stages of processing.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/70/7a/i-perception-4-493.PMC4129382.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3560835", "abstract": "Summary The accurate and high-throughput detection of drug resistance-related multiple point mutations remains a challenge. Although the combination of molecular beacons with bio-immobilization technology, such as microarray, is promising, its application is difficult due to the ineffective immobilization of molecular beacons on the chip surface. Here, we propose a novel asymmetric-loop molecular beacon in which the loop consists of 2 parts. One is complementary to a target, while the other is complementary to an oligonucleotide probe immobilized on the chip surface. With this novel probe, a two-phase hybridization assay can be used for simultaneously detecting multiple point mutations. This assay will have advantages, such as easy probe availability, multiplex detection, low background, and high-efficiency hybridization, and may provide a new avenue for the immobilization of molecular beacons and high-throughput detection of point mutations.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/15/d4/PMC3560835.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2671441", "abstract": "To determine the presence of Kaposi sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV) and other serologic markers, we tested serum specimens of 339 Amerindians, 181 rural non-Amerindians, and 1,133 urban blood donors (13 Amerindians) in the Brazilian Amazon. High KSHV seroprevalence in children and inverse association with herpes simplex virus type 2 indicates predominant nonsexual transmission among Amerindians.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/3d/c2/PMC2671441.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3854659", "abstract": "It has become clear in recent years that multiple signal transduction pathways are employed upon GPCR  activation. One of the major cellular effectors activated by GPCRs is extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Both G-protein and β-arrestin mediated signaling pathways can lead to ERK activation. However, depending on activation  pathway, the subcellular destination of activated ERK1/2 may be different. G-protein -dependent ERK activation results in the translocation of active ERK to the nucleus, whereas ERK activated via an arrestin-dependent mechanism remains largely in the cytoplasm. The subcellular location of activated ERK1/2 determines the downstream signaling cascade. Many substrates of ERK1/2 are found in the nucleus: nuclear transcription factors that participate in gene transcription, cell proliferation and differentiation. ERK1/2 substrates are also found in cytosol and other cellular organelles: they may play roles in translation, mitosis, apoptosis and cross-talk with other signaling pathways. Therefore, determining specific subcellular locations of activated ERK1/2 mediated by GPCR ligands would be important in correlating signaling pathways with cellular physiological functions. While GPCR-stimulated selective ERK pathway activation has been studied in several receptor systems, exploitation of these different signaling cascades for therapeutics has not yet been seriously  pursued. Many old drug candidates were identified from screens based on G-protein signaling assays, and their activity on β-arrestin signaling pathways being mostly unknown, especially regarding their subcellular ERK pathways. With today’s knowledge of complicated GPCR signaling pathways, drug discovery can no longer rely on single-pathway approaches. Since ERK activation is an important signaling pathway and associated with many physiological functions, targeting the ERK pathway, especially specific subcellular activation pathways should provide new avenues for GPCR drug discovery. ", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/74/85/CCGTM-7-9.PMC3854659.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3177836", "abstract": "Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) is the most common fibroblastic tumor, but its cutaneous metastasis, especially in-transit metastasis, is extremely rare. We describe the case of a 30-year-old Japanese man with a recurrent MFH on the scalp accompanied by in-transit metastasis, which had been treated as a benign skin tumor 8 years before. The main bulk of the recurrent tumor was located in the dermis, but the metastatic tumor was mainly located in the subcutis. Generally, atypical fibroxanthoma, also known as cutaneous MFH, is rarely metastasized and presents a benign clinical course. Since there is a great difference between the prognosis of MFH and atypical fibroxanthoma, precise diagnosis of the primary tumor is essential.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/4f/c3/cde0003-0164.PMC3177836.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5036209", "abstract": "Introduction Melatonin has been studied in headache disorders. Amitriptyline is efficacious for migraine prevention, but its unfavourable side effect profile limits its use. Methods A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was carried out. Men and women, aged 18–65 years, with migraine with or without aura, experiencing 2–8 attacks per month, were enrolled. After a 4-week baseline phase, 196 participants were randomised to placebo, amitriptyline 25 mg or melatonin 3 mg, and 178 took a study medication and were followed for 3 months (12 weeks). The primary outcome was the number of migraine headache days per month at baseline versus last month. Secondary end points were responder rate, migraine intensity, duration and analgesic use. Tolerability was also compared between groups. Results Mean headache frequency reduction was 2.7 migraine headache days in the melatonin group, 2.2 for amitriptyline and 1.1 for placebo. Melatonin significantly reduced headache frequency compared with placebo (p=0.009), but not to amitriptyline (p=0.19). Melatonin was superior to amitriptyline in the percentage of patients with a greater than 50", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/b2/42/jnnp-2016-313458.PMC5036209.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3133847", "abstract": "Background: Increased bone resorption and new bone information are two characteristics of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Much evidence has shown that carbonic anhydrase inhibitors can restrain bone resorption. We had detected increased expression of carbonic anhydrase I (CA1) in synovium of patients with AS. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of methazolamide, an anti-carbonic anhydrase drug, for treating patients with AS. Methods: Two patients, called as S and L, were diagnosed with active AS based on BASDAI and BASFI assessments, radiographic data and other clinical indices. They took methazolamide tablets at a dose of 25 mg twice every day. Results: Patient S's BASDAI score fell from 5.4 to 4.4, while patient L's BASDAI fell from 2.4 to 2. Patient S's BASFI score change from 2.7 to 2.9, while patient L's BASFI score fell from 1.2 to 0.2. The ESR values of patient S were considerably reduced, while the ESR value of patient L remained unchanged and in the normal range. The calcium concentration of patient S decreased from 3.05 mmol/L to 2.39 mmol/L. The CT evidence indicates that the articular surfaces of the erosive sacroiliac joints became clearer and the area of the calcium deposits began decreased. No significant systemic side effects were observed in either patient. Conclusions: The above results indicate that methazolamide was effective for active AS. Methazolamide may improve AS symptoms by inhibiting carbonic anhydrase activity during the processes of bone reporption and new bone formation.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/22/a3/ijmsv08p0413.PMC3133847.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4348135", "abstract": "Background and purpose The cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) plays an important role in the mechanism of cognitive impairment and is also pivotal in the switch from short-term to long-term memory. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) seems a promising avenue in the treatment of cerebral ischemia injury since this neurotrophin could stimulate structural plasticity and repair cognitive impairment. Several findings have displayed that the dysregulation of the CREB–BDNF cascade has been involved in cognitive impairment. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cerebral ischemia on learning and memory as well as on the levels of CREB, phosphorylated CREB (pCREB), and BDNF, and to determine the effect of minocycline on CREB, pCREB, BDNF, and behavioral functional recovery after cerebral ischemia. Methods The animal model was established by permanent bilateral occlusion of both common carotid arteries. Behavior was evaluated 5 days before decapitation with Morris water maze and open-field task. Four days after permanent bilateral occlusion of both common carotid arteries, minocycline was administered by douche via the stomach for 4 weeks. CREB and pCREB were examined by Western blotting, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and immunohistochemistry. BDNF was measured by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Results The model rats after minocycline treatment swam shorter distances than control rats before finding the platform (P=0.0007). The number of times the platform position was crossed for sham-operation rats was more than that of the model groups in the corresponding platform location (P=0.0021). The number of times the platform position was crossed for minocycline treatment animals was significantly increased compared to the model groups in the corresponding platform position (P=0.0016). CREB, pCREB, and BDNF were downregulated after permanent bilateral occlusion of both common carotid arteries in the model group. Minocycline increased the expression of CREB, pCREB, and BDNF, and improved cognitive suffered from impairment of permanent bilateral occlusion of both common carotid arteries. Conclusion Minocycline improved cognitive impairment from cerebral ischemia via enhancing CREB, pCREB, and BDNF activity in the hippocampus.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/f5/1a/ndt-11-507.PMC4348135.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3013719", "abstract": "The Epigenomics database at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) is a new resource that has been created to serve as a comprehensive public resource for whole-genome epigenetic data sets (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/epigenomics). Epigenetics is the study of stable and heritable changes in gene expression that occur independently of the primary DNA sequence. Epigenetic mechanisms include post-translational modifications of histones, DNA methylation, chromatin conformation and non-coding RNAs. It has been observed that misregulation of epigenetic processes has been associated with human disease. We have constructed the new resource by selecting the subset of epigenetics-specific data from general-purpose archives, such as the Gene Expression Omnibus, and Sequence Read Archives, and then subjecting them to further review, annotation and reorganization. Raw data is processed and mapped to genomic coordinates to generate ‘tracks’ that are a visual representation of the data. These data tracks can be viewed using popular genome browsers or downloaded for local analysis. The Epigenomics resource also provides the user with a unique interface that allows for intuitive browsing and searching of data sets based on biological attributes. Currently, there are 69 studies, 337 samples and over 1100 data tracks from five well-studied species that are viewable and downloadable in Epigenomics.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/6d/69/gkq1146.PMC3013719.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4152926", "abstract": "Green nail syndrome (GNS) caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most common bacterial nail infection. The treatment of GNS is challenging in many cases and recommendations based on clinical trials are lacking. We report two cases with GNS successfully treated with off-label use of topical nadifloxacin, a fluoroquinolone approved for acne and bacterial skin infections in some countries.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/5c/57/cde-0006-0180.PMC4152926.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4644778", "abstract": "PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of tightening technique and the screw coating on the loosening torque of screws used for Universal Abutment fixation after cyclic loading. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty implants (Titamax Ti Cortical, HE, Neodent) (n=10) were submerged in acrylic resin and four tightening techniques for Universal Abutment fixation were evaluated: A - torque with 32 Ncm (control); B - torque with 32 Ncm holding the torque meter for 20 seconds; C - torque with 32 Ncm and retorque after 10 minutes; D - torque (32 Ncm) holding the torque meter for 20 seconds and retorque after 10 minutes as initially. Samples were divided into subgroups according to the screw used: conventional titanium screw or diamond like carbon-coated (DLC) screw. Metallic crowns were fabricated for each abutment. Samples were submitted to cyclic loading at 106 cycles and 130 N of force. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (5", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/14/cd/jap-7-375.PMC4644778.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4018180", "abstract": "Autoimmune myocarditis and its sequel, dilated cardiomyopathy, are major causes of heart failure, especially in children and young adults. We have developed animal models to investigate their pathogenesis by infecting genetically susceptible mice with coxsackievirus B3 or by immunizing them with cardiac myosin or its immunodominant peptide. A number of valuable lessons have emerged from our study of this paradigm of an infection-induced autoimmune disease. We understand more clearly how natural autoimmunity, as an important component of normal physiology, must be recalibrated regularly due to changes caused by infection or other internal and external stimuli. A new normal homeostatic platform will be established based on its evolutionary fitness. A loss of homeostasis with out-of-control normal autoimmunity leads to autoimmune disease. It is signified early on by a spread of an adaptive autoimmune response to novel epitopes and neighboring antigens. The progression from infection to normal, well-balanced autoimmunity to autoimmune disease and on to irreversible damage is a complex, step-wise process. Yet, chaos theory provides hope that the pattern is potentially predictable. Infection-induced autoimmune disease represents a sequence of events heading for a train wreck at the end of the line. Our aim in autoimmune disease research must be to stop the train before this happens.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/7c/60/biolrep-06-25.PMC4018180.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC3886086", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Objectives The purpose of this study was to develop and validate the mouthwash use questionnaire to determine the lifetime exposure to alcohol from mouthwash and verify that it was suitable for use in general population. Material and Methods Data were available from three consecutive studies, all collecting information on mouthwash use. In addition, supermarkets and online stores were screened for the brands of mouthwash they sold. Alcohol content of mouthwash was identified from various sources, including laboratory measurements. Alcohol-containing mouthwash use was converted to glasses of wine equivalent. Results Mouthwash was used by 62", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/84/d7/jomr-03-e1.PMC3886086.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC5045973", "abstract": "ABSTRACT Background: Lack of knowledge, attitude and practice are some of the barriers of having a healthy lifestyle and controlling high blood pressure. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of a lifestyle modification program on knowledge, attitude and practice of hypertensive patients with angioplasty.  Methods: This study was a randomized controlled clinical trial conducted from November to April 2014 on 60 hypertensive patients with angioplasty in Shahid Chamran hospital of Isfahan, Iran. The samples were randomly assigned to two equal groups. Data collection was performed in three stages by a researcher-made questionnaire. The intervention plan was 6 education sessions and then follow up were done by phone call. The gathered data were analyzed via SPSS (V.20), using t-test, Chi-square, repeated measurement, and post hoc LSD test and ANOVA statistics.   Results:  The mean score of knowledge, attitude and practice in the experimental group immediately after the intervention was 77.8±7.2, 88.3±6.4 and 86.2±6.5, respectively and one month after the intervention was 80.8±7.4, 91.1±3.5 and 92.5±2.2, respectively. But in the control group, the mean score of knowledge, attitude and practice immediately after the intervention (34.90±11.23, 61.11±6.28, and 38.64±7.15) and one month after the intervention was (38.64±7.15, 59.56±6.31 and 37.27±7.26.  Conclusion: Lifestyle modification program can be effective in promoting the knowledge, attitude and practice of hypertensive patients with angioplasty. Nurses can use this program in their care provision programs for these patients.  Trial Registration Number:IRCT2015062420912N3", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/ec/44/IJCBNM-4-286.PMC5045973.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4792845", "abstract": "Whole animal physiological measures were assessed following three days of either standard diet or high fat diet, in either the fasted or non-fasted states. Our data shows that acute 3-day high fat feeding increases whole body lipid oxidation. When this feeding protocol is followed by an overnight fast, oxygen consumption (VO2) in the light phase is reduced in both dietary groups, but oxygen consumption in the dark phase is only reduced in mice fed the high-fat diet. Furthermore, the fasting-induced rise in dark cycle activity level observed in mice maintained on a standard diet is abolished when mice are fed a high-fat diet.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/81/b2/PMC4792845.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3647561", "abstract": "Endothelial injury induced by inflammatory factors plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Endothelial cell (EC) apoptosis, proliferation, migration, and cellular adhesion molecule (CAM) expression contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. We investigated the effects of resveratrol (0.1–100 μM) on the proliferation, migration, and CAM expression of primary cultures of baboon arterial endothelial cells (BAECs). In addition, we tested its effects under normal conditions as well as under inflammatory conditions induced by tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) administered either by cotreatment, pretreatment, or posttreatment. Immunocytochemistry, MTT, wound-healing, and flow cytometry assays were performed. The resveratrol treatment significantly enhanced BAEC proliferation and attenuated TNF-α-induced impairment of proliferation at the optimal doses of 1–50 µM. Resveratrol at a high dose (100 μM) and TNF-α impaired BAEC migration, while low doses of resveratrol (1–50 μM) attenuated TNF-α-induced impairment of BAEC migration. Moreover, resveratrol inhibited TNF-α-induced ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression. Taken together, our results suggest that the resveratrol protects BAECs after inflammatory stimulation as well as ameliorates inflammatory effects at low concentrations. Consequently, resveratrol should be considered as a candidate drug for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory vascular diseases.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/c5/9b/PMC3647561.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC4166967", "abstract": "A comprehensive and integrated approach to strengthen primary health care has been the major thrust of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) that was launched in 2005 to revamp India's rural public health system. Though the logic of horizontal and integrated health care to strengthen health systems has long been acknowledged at policy level, empirical evidence on how such integration operates is rare. Based on recent (2011–2012) ethnographic fieldwork in Odisha, India, this article discusses community health workers' experiences in integrated service delivery through village-level outreach sessions within the NRHM. It shows that for health workers, the notion of integration goes well beyond a technical lens of mixing different health services. Crucially, they perceive ‘teamwork’ and ‘building trust with the community’ (beyond trust in health services) to be critical components of their practice. However, the comprehensive NRHM primary health care ideology – which the health workers espouse – is in constant tension with the exigencies of narrow indicators of health system performance. Our ethnography shows how monitoring mechanisms, the institutionalised privileging of statistical evidence over field-based knowledge and the highly hierarchical health bureaucratic structure that rests on top-down communications mitigate efforts towards sustainable health system integration.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/bc/72/PMC4166967.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3508751", "abstract": "Airway inflammation is accompanied by infiltration of inflammatory cells and an abnormal response of airway smooth muscle. These cells secrete chemokines and express the cell surface chemokine receptors that play an important role in the migration and degranulation of inflammatory cells. Omalizumab is a monoclonal antibody directed against immunoglobulin E, and its blocking of IgE signaling not only reduces inflammatory cell infiltration mediated by the Th2 immune response but also inhibits other immune responses. The chemokine CCL15 is influenced by omalizumab, and the source of CCL15 has been reported to be airway smooth muscle cells and basophils. CCL15 binds to its receptor CCR1, which has been reported to be expressed by various inflammatory cells and also by airway smooth muscle cells. Therefore, CCL15/CCR1 signaling could be a target for the treatment of asthma. We review the role of CCL15 in the pathogenesis of asthma and also discuss the influence of IgE-mediated immunomodulation via CCL15 and its receptor CCR1.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/0e/24/PMC3508751.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC2254487", "abstract": "Introduction In 2002 the Republika Srpska of Bosnia and Herzegovina adopted goals for reducing the burden of chronic disease through a new screening program in its publicly funded health centers (“Dom Zdravljas”). This study evaluated the first year of program implementation. Methods The evaluation used in-depth interviews with 25 key stakeholders and in-person interviews with 1004 citizens. Results We found that many health care providers and citizens were unaware of the program. In addition, there was inadequate financing for the program, because the Health Insurance Fund does not collect revenue for uninsured citizens, more than 20 per cent of the population. Conclusion We recommend improved co-ordination among public and private organizations involved in implementation; increased promotion of the program with health care providers and citizens; and increased financial resources for providing screening for uninsured citizens.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_package/2c/ae/PMC2254487.tar.gz"}
{"id": "PMC3934811", "abstract": "A 48-year-old woman with a positive BRCA1 gene mutation was diagnosed with stage 3b high-grade ovarian endometrioid carcinoma. She was treated with adjuvant carboplatin at a dose of 740 mg (AUC 6) in 3-weekly cycles. Five days after her fifth cycle of carboplatin, she awoke with new-onset blurred vision in her left eye. An ophthalmology review showed left-sided disc oedema with normal optic nerve function tests and 6/24 visual acuity. A CT scan of the head and orbits was performed which showed no evidence of metastasis or raised intracranial pressure. An autoimmune screen was performed which did not reveal any explanation for her visual symptoms. Fundus fluorescein angiography showed bilateral intense late disc leakage with no evidence of vasculitis. Her chemotherapy was stopped in view of a radiological and biochemical remission and her visual symptoms were monitored. She was also started on a tapering dose of prednisolone 40 mg daily. Five months after the initial review, she has developed left optic disc atrophy with 6/18 visual acuity, while the right eye remains asymptomatic. The diagnosis was felt to be that of carboplatin-induced unilateral disc oedema, a very rare side effect of this chemotherapy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/09/f4/cro-0007-0029.PMC3934811.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4503916", "abstract": "We present a case on abdominal wall abscess from spilled stones post-cholecystectomy and describe laparoscopic drainage as our choice of management. Mr M is a 75-year-old male who presented on multiple occasions to the hospital with right upper quadrant pain and fever post-laparoscopic cholecystectomy. He also required multiple courses of antibiotics. Subsequent computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scan confirmed a number of retained stone with signs of chronic inflammation. Hence, 6 months after his initial laparoscopic cholecystectomy, he proceeded to an exploratory laparoscopy. We found an abscess cavity measuring 3 × 4 cm over the anterior abdominal wall. The cavity was de-roofed, drained and washed out. The tissue culture grew Klebsiella pneumoniae. Laparoscopic approach is optimal as the abscess cavity can be clearly identified, stones visualized and removed under direct vision. Patient does not require a laparotomy.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/87/d2/rjv077.PMC4503916.pdf"}
{"id": "PMC4754593", "abstract": "Double compression of the ulnar nerve, including Guyon's canal syndrome associated with cubital tunnel syndrome caused by the anconeus epitrochlearis muscle, is a very rare condition. We present a case of double crush syndrome of the ulnar nerve at the wrist and elbow in a 55-year-old man, as well as a brief review of the literature. Although electrodiagnostic findings were consistent with an ulnar nerve lesion only at the elbow, ultrasonography revealed a ganglion compressing the ulnar nerve at the hypothenar area and the anconeus epitrochlearis muscle lying in the cubital tunnel. Careful physical examination and ultrasound assessment of the elbow and wrist confirmed the clinical diagnosis prior to surgery.", "pdf_url": "ftp://ftp.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pub/pmc/oa_pdf/9e/b6/jkns-59-75.PMC4754593.pdf"}