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Does an inflammatory pattern at primary biopsy suggest a lower risk for prostate cancer at repeated saturation prostate biopsy?

An inflammatory pattern at primary biopsy is not associated with a decrease in PCa incidence at repeated SPBx; therefore, only an accurate clinical evaluation including more parameters (i.e. urinary PCA3) could hopefully select men who need to undergo rebiopsy in the presence of persistent suspicion of cancer.

Antimicrobial use, with regard to both individual use and total antimicrobial consumption in the community, is strongly associated with nasopharyngeal carriage of penicillin resistant pneumococci in children. Control measures to reduce the prevalence of penicillin resistant pneumococci should include reducing the use of antimicrobials in community health care.

Is item reduction based on rigorous methodological guidelines necessary to maintain validity when shortening composite measurement scales?

Item reduction based on a rigorous methodology is necessary if the short-form instrument aims to maintain the validity and other measurement properties of the parent instrument, which in turn supports application in research and clinical practice.

Adrenocorticotrophic hormone stimulation increases adrenal vein but not peripheral vein vitamin C concentrations. These data are the first in humans showing that hormone-regulated vitamin secretion occurs and that adrenal vitamin C paracrine secretion is part of the stress response. Tight control of peripheral vitamin C concentration is permissive of higher local concentrations that may have paracrine functions.

Do unequal societies cause death among the elderly?

Income inequality was significantly associated with mortality in the age group 65-74 at municipality level. The association is small compared to many other variables, but is not negligible. Even in a comparatively equal society like Sweden, the potential effects of income inequality on mortality at the local level warrant consideration.

These findings suggest that existing diet quality scores are not appropriate for studies of peak bone mass, most likely because they do not give sufficient weight to foods and nutrients important to bone health. We recommend the development of a diet pattern index that better predicts bone mass measures.

Racial disparity in blood pressure: is vitamin D a factor?

In cross-sectional analyses, 25(OH)D explains one quarter of the Black-White disparity in SBP. Randomized controlled trials are required to determine whether vitamin D supplementation could reduce racial disparity in BP.

Results support investigation into policy alternatives for comprehensive unemployment assistance.

Does inhibition of nuclear factor-kappaB in T cells suppress lung fibrosis?

These results suggest that the specific inhibition of NF-kappaB could be useful for the treatment of lung fibrosis.

This study indicates that reduction of the early inflammatory response after cataract surgery is not important in the development of after-cataract.

Does ethanol metabolism alter major histocompatibility complex class I-restricted antigen presentation in liver cells?

Proteasome function is directly suppressed by ethanol metabolism and indirectly by preventing the activating effects of IFNgamma. Ethanol-elicited reduction in proteasome activity contributes to the suppression of SIINFEKL-H2Kb presentation on the surface of liver cells.

These findings indicated that sophocarpine potentially had antifibrotic effects. The mechanism might be due to modulation of the balance between pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and collagen content level as well as MMPs expression via the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Does neonatal bronchopulmonary dysplasia predict abnormal pulmonary HRCT scans in long-term survivors of extreme preterm birth?

In area-based cohorts of long-term survivors of extremely preterm birth, prolonged neonatal requirements for oxygen treatment predicted subsequent structural abnormalities on HRCT scans and in pulmonary function, and these two outcome measures were interrelated.

Our study is the first systematic comparison between the two methods and supports the utility of SNP array genotyping to address clinical and research questions in Turner syndrome.

Are fetal hemoglobin , α1-microglobulin and hemopexin potential predictive first trimester biomarkers for preeclampsia?

Overproduction of placentally derived HbF and depletion of hemoglobin/heme scavenging mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. The combination of HbF and α1-microglobulin and/or hemopexin may serve as a prediction model for preeclampsia in combination with maternal risk factors and/or uterine artery Doppler ultrasound.

these new data highlight roles of GRK2 and arrestin2 as important regulators of UTP-stimulated P2Y(2)-receptor responsiveness in resistance arteries, emphasizing their potential importance in regulating vasoconstrictor signalling pathways implicated in vascular disease.

Does serotonin stimulate platelet receptor shedding by tumor necrosis factor-alpha-converting enzyme ( ADAM17 )?

Stimulation of 5-HT2AR on platelets induces TACE-mediated shedding of GPIbalpha, the key adhesion molecule under high shear conditions. Our observations demonstrate a new pathway through which 5-HT could modulate cardiovascular disease.

We conclude that the neuromuscular blocking effects of mivacurium are similar when given during propofol vs xenon anesthesia.

Is bRAF mutation status an independent prognostic factor for resected stage IIIB and IIIC melanoma : implications for melanoma staging and adjuvant therapy?

Patients with BRAF mutations experienced rapid progression of metastatic disease with locoregional recurrence rarely seen in isolation, supporting incorporation of BRAF status into melanoma staging and use of BRAF/MEK inhibitors post-TLND.

The inflammasome is highly activated in the ascitic fluid of cirrhotic patients, which may explain the exacerbated inflammatory response observed in these patients under non-infected conditions. Clinically, activation of the inflammasome is associated with a higher degree of liver disease.

Does endogenous adenosine activate ATP-sensitive potassium channels in the hypoxic guinea pig ventricle in vivo?

(1) Endogenous adenosine released during global cardiac hypoxia mediates, in part, AV nodal conduction delay and shortening of atrial but not ventricular APD. (2) The action of adenosine on atrial APD is mediated by A1 adenosine receptors, probably via IK,Ado,Ach. (3) Endogenous adenosine apparently does not play an important role in the early stages of acute global hypoxia-induced activation of K+ ATP channels. The present results are consistent with the hypothesis that the shortening of ventricular APD in the hypoxic heart is due, in part, to activation of K+ ATP channels.

The diagnostic and predictive value of CRP levels is most affected by BMI and oral contraceptive use, which suggests the need for further investigations into the role of CRP modulating factors in monitoring infectious diseases.

Does ajuga turkestanica increase Notch and Wnt signaling in aged skeletal muscle?

ATE supplementation in aged mice increases Notch and Wnt signaling in triceps brachii muscle. If Notch and Wnt benefit skeletal muscle, then phytoecdysteroids may provide a protective effect and maintain the integrity of aged skeletal muscle.

EUS N-staging still has prognostic value in patients staged N0 at PET/CT. There is a significant difference in survival between EUS N0 and positive nodal EUS status in those staged N0 at PET/CT, suggesting PET/CT is unreliable for local staging. PET/CT and EUS continue to have complimentary roles in OC staging.

Are myeloperoxidase levels associated with carotid atherosclerosis progression in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia?

In FH patients, statins do not prevent an increase in MPO levels during follow-up. Moreover, MPO levels are not associated with atherosclerosis progression in these patients.

Diabetes, pregnancy, malignancy, prior antibiotic therapy, underlying urological abnormalities were found associated with emergence of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase producer in urine samples. Proper antibiotic usage may help to overcome the problem of emergence of antibiotic resistance.

Glomerular hyperfiltration in hypogonadotropic hypogonadic patients: Overlooking a cache?

Our study confirms that low testosterone in IHH patients is associated with glomerular hyperfiltration. Patients with IHH should be carefully monitored with respect to their GFR.

Our results predict postoperative VCP based on postcricoid electromyographic IONM and may guide surgical decision making.

Does overexpression of Dickkopf-3 induce apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway in human colon cancer?

Dkk-3 overexpression induced apoptosis in human colon cancer possibly through the mitochondrial pathway. Dkk-3 may be involved in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways in colon cancer.

• N24 attenuates balloon injury-induced neointimal formation. • Overexpression of N24 inhibits cultured VSMC proliferation and migration. • Overexpression of N24 arrests the cell cycle at S phase. • N24 interacts with and stabilizes p53 resulting in growth suppression.

Is mitochondria-localized glutamic acid-rich protein ( MGARP ) gene transcription regulated by Sp1?

The present study identified a proximal core sequence in the MGARP promoter that is composed of two enriched Sp1 binding motifs and established Sp1 as one major MGARP transactivator whose functions are synergistic with ERα, providing a novel understanding of the mechanisms of MGARP gene transcriptional regulation.

The treatment of low-protein-fed dams during pregnancy with ACH09 provides protection from early-life deleterious renal morphological changes. The protective effect of ACH09 may involve antioxidant action and vasodilator effect of the extract.

Solitary pulmonary nodule in a patient with treated carcinoma of the renal pelvis: metastatic disease?

A metastatic or a primary tumor is suspected when a solitary pulmonary nodule is detected in a patient that has been previously treated for urothelial carcinoma. However, other types of lesions with a more favourable outcome cannot be discarded, such as chondroid hamartoma as in the case described herein.

Overall our results are consistent with previous epidemiological data on OP neurobehavioral toxicity, and also indicate ultrasonic vocalization as an early marker of CPF exposure during development in rodent studies, with potential translational value to human infants.

Does acute and delayed deferoxamine treatment attenuate long-term sequelae after germinal matrix hemorrhage in neonatal rats?

Acute and delayed deferoxamine administration ameliorated long-term sequelae after GMH.

Smoking is associated with poor clinical outcomes after revascularization in patients with complex CAD. This places further emphasis on efforts at smoking cessation to improve revascularization benefits. (SYNTAX Study: TAXUS Drug-Eluting Stent Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for the Treatment of Narrowed Arteries; NCT00114972).

Is systematic echocardiography efficacious when screening an ethnically diverse cohort of athletes in West Asia?

Athletes diagnosed with a disease associated with SCD were identified via an abnormal ECG and/or physical examination, personal symptoms, or family history. Screening athletes with systematic ECHO is not economically or clinically effective.

The assessment of an empirically-based, patient judgement as criteria for changes in quality of life by rehabilitation programmes increases the evidence-based evaluation by a patient-oriented perspective. At the same time it reduces the lack of significant criteria for estimating clinically significant changes.

Does early impairment in consciousness predict mortality after hemispheric ischemic stroke?

The development of a decreased level of consciousness within the initial hours after stroke onset, as evaluated by a simple six-point scale, is a powerful independent predictor of mortality after major anterior circulation ischemic stroke.

IL-2 may not only be of benefit in restoring immune function in AIDS patients, but may also help to prevent the infection of healthy macrophages by decreasing their expression of HIV-1 receptors.

Double-layered closure of chronic oroantral fistulas using a palatal rotational flap and suturing of the sinus membrane perforation: is it a successful technique?

Double-layered closure of OAFs is a straightforward, convenient, and successful technique that provides stable, strong, and double-sealed closure of chronic OAFs.

This study indicates that the variation in IIF patterns seen with ANCA positive sera tested in different laboratories does not necessarily result from errors in the interpretation of patterns and cannot be attributed solely to the use of a particular neutrophil substrate or conjugate, or to the use of substrate from one manufacturer and conjugate from another.

Is myocardial sympathetic nervous dysfunction detected with iodine-123-MIBG associated with low heart rate variability after myocardial infarction?

The extent of viable myocardium with disturbed sympathetic innervation was greater in patients with low heart rate variability as compared to those with normal heart rate variability 3 mo after myocardial infarction.

HIV infection was associated with rectal mucosal changes in microbiota composition and imputed function that cART failed to completely reverse. HIV infection was associated with depletion of some commensal species and enrichment of a few opportunistic pathogens. Many imputed metagenomic functions differed between samples from HIV-negative and HIV-positive subjects not receiving cART, possibly reflecting mucosal metabolic changes associated with HIV infection. Such functional pathways may represent novel interventional targets for HIV therapy if normalizing the microbial composition or functional activity of the microbiota proves therapeutically useful.

Is one month treatment with dabigatran before cardioversion of atrial fibrillation sufficient to prevent thromboembolism?

In this retrospective study from clinical material, we found a low incidence of TE when dabigatran was used as TE prophylaxis in association with elective cardioversion. These results indicate that dabigatran is a safe alternative strategy to warfarin during cardioversion in patients with AF.

Because of their high prevalence, reflux symptoms are of major public health importance.

Is phosphate-activated glutaminase activity enhanced in brain , intestine and kidneys of rats following portacaval anastomosis?

Increased PAG activity in kidney and duodenum could contribute significantly to the hyperammonaemia in PCA rats, animal model of encephalopathy. PAG is increased in non-synaptic mitochondria from the cortex and basal ganglia and could be implicated in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy. Therefore, PAG could be a possible target for the treatment of HE or liver dysfunction.

Our results shed light on the genome methylation pattern in a member of a relatively unexplored plant lineage. The DNA methylation data reported here will help understanding the involvement of this epigenetic mark in fundamental biological processes, as well as the evolutionary aspects of epigenetics in land plants.

Does snail1 correlate with patient outcomes in E-cadherin-preserved gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma?

Snail1 may act more critically in E-cadherin-positive tumors. Evaluation of Snail1 and E-cadherin in GEJ adenocarcinoma may help in assessing malignant properties and stratifying patients.

A high preoperative NLR may be a convenient biomarker to identify patients with a poor prognosis after resection for primary gastric cancer.

Does smoking have an impact on fusion rate in single-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with allograft and rigid plate fixation?

The authors found no statistically significant difference in fusion status between smokers and nonsmokers who underwent a single-level ACDF with allograft and a locked anterior cervical plate. Although the authors do not promote tobacco use, it appears that the use of allograft with a locked cervical plate in single-level ACDF among smokers produces similar fusion rates as it does in their nonsmoking counterparts.

These are early evidence for utility of monitoring plasma OPN during CT screening to assist in identification of NSCLCs.

Does autonomic ganglionic blockade prevent reduction in cerebral blood flow velocity during orthostasis in humans?

These data, contrary to our hypothesis, demonstrate that sympathetic vasoconstriction is not the primary mechanism underlying reductions in CBF during moderate LBNP. We speculate that diminished pulse arterial pressure or pulsatile blood flow may reduce cerebral vessel wall shear stress and contribute to reductions in CBF during orthostasis through flow mediated regulatory mechanisms.

Intravitreal bevacizumab may be associated with an early growth of ERM in eyes with RVO, although a causative relationship cannot be established. Future randomised clinical trials are necessary to determine the efficacy and safety profile of this novel therapy.

Are herders protected by their herds?

Outdoors, a preponderance of cattle (20:1, cattle:humans) does not provide any material zooprophylactic effect against biting by An. arabiensis. For a human indoors, the presence of cattle outdoors nearly halved the catch. Unfortunately, this level of reduction would not have an appreciable impact on malaria incidence in an area with typically>1 infective bite/person/night. For An. pharoensis, cattle significantly reduced the human catch indoors and outdoors, but still only by about half. These results suggest that even for traditional pastoralist communities of East Africa, the presence of large numbers of cattle does not confer effective zooprophylaxis against malaria transmitted by An. arabiensis or An. pharoensis.

HPV vaccination uptake and completion were more likely among adolescent girls whose mothers obtained a recent Pap test. Interventions designed to educate mothers on the importance of HPV vaccination and to facilitate relationships between physicians and mothers may prove successful at increasing HPV vaccination among adolescent girls.

Is cYFRA 21-1 a useful marker for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma?

CYFRA 21-1 appears to be a useful marker for human squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus.

Inpatient rehabilitation decreased MS patients' fatigue. Change in fatigue was predicted with certain domains of QoL at baseline.

Is fracture resistance of endodontically treated mandibular molars restored with indirect onlay composite restorations influenced by fibre post insertion?

Within the limitations of this study, the insertion of fibre posts did not improve support under indirect composite overlays.

Our results indicate that alteration of the FHIT gene and HPV(16) infection are important genetic events associated with colorectal adenocarcinoma. However, there is no correlation between FHIT abnormalities, clinicopathological features, and HPV(16) infection in colorectal adenocarcinoma.

Do public-private partnerships improve health outcomes in individuals with early stage Alzheimer 's disease?

PLM was successful in improving detection of incident cases of dementia in the community and in connecting patients and their families with needed services. Our findings support the use of state agencies and community service partners to detect dementia. Early implementation of psychosocial interventions could have significant impact in improving patient- and family-centered outcomes, potentially providing a cost-efficient alternative to pharmacotherapy.

CSA monotherapy is effective in SRNS. Discontinuation of CSA is possible in many patients with complete remission.

Does matrix metalloproteinase-9 silencing by RNA interference promote the adhesive-invasive switch in HT1080 human fibrosarcoma cells?

Our observations defined a novel critical role for MMP-9 in the progression of HT1080 fibrosarcoma by changing the inter-cellular adhesion molecular-1 from membrane-anchored state to a soluble one which provides a target for promising tumor therapy in clinics.

These findings support the view that chronic consumption of melon juice extract rich in SOD has potential beneficial effects with respect to the development of atherosclerosis and liver steatosis, emphasizing its use as potential dietary therapy.

Are aortic elastic properties related to left ventricular diastolic function in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus?

Aortic stiffness is increased in type 1 diabetic patients with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. This impairment in aortic elastic properties seems to be related to parameters of diastolic function.

In Spain linkage to care after HIV diagnosis is good, but there is still room for improvement, especially among IDUs.

Is tolerance induced by IL-6 deficient donor heart significantly involved in myeloid-derived suppressor cells ( MDSCs )?

MDSCs rather than Th17 cells are closely involved in induced tolerance by IL-6 deficient donor heart. This unveiled mechanism of targeting IL-6 or its signaling pathway may provide a novel insight into preventing allograft rejection for non-sensitized transplant recipients.

The use of the 25S needle in diagnostic LP reduces the frequency and severity of PDPH.

Are cytochrome P450 CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 polymorphisms associated with ibuprofen response in very preterm infants?

CYP2C polymorphism was not associated with PDA response to ibuprofen and this factor appears not appropriate to optimize the ductal closure rate by modulating ibuprofen dosing strategy. This study points out the role for ethnicity in the interindividual variability of response to ibuprofen in extremely preterm infants.

Microscopic pathological heterogeneity in IPF lung tissue corresponds to specific gene expression patterns related to bronchiolisation and lymphoid aggregates. MMP3 and CXCL13 are systemic biomarkers that reflect the aggregate burden of these pathological features across total lung tissue. These biomarkers may have clinical utility as prognostic and/or surrogate biomarkers of disease activity in interventional studies in IPF.

Does pentoxifylline reduce indirect lung injury of fresh water drowning in canis?

Continuous infusion of PTX reduces ILI caused by fresh water drowning. PTX decreases expression of ICAM-1 and TNF-alpha, possibly via inhibition of NF-kappaB.

Surgery for cataracts with delayed presentation helps to regain functional vision, which can be used for navigation and low vision aids.

Do site-specific fibroblasts regulate site-specific inflammatory niche formation in gastric cancer?

The dynamic states of immune cells differ between the submucosal and subserosal layers in cancer tissues. Site-specific fibroblasts regulate site-specific inflammatory niche formation according to the depth of cancer cell invasion.

Most primary (87 %) and metastasized (86.1 %) BCs are AR positive including a significant fraction of TNBCs (11.4 %). Further, AR status is highly conserved during tumor progression and a change only occurs in a small fraction (4.1 %). Our study supports the notion that targeting AR could be effective for many BC patients and that re-testing of AR status in formerly negative or mixed type BC's is recommended.

Is the practice of public or private sector doctors more evidence-based?

Better training in evidence-based practice, improved regulatory system and greater collaboration between the public, private for-profit and private not-for-profit sectors with regards to training in evidence-based practice - literature search and critical appraisal skills - were suggested as needed to improve the present situation.

Male-presumed fetal cells of haematopoietic and mesenchymal origin were identified in the appendix of all pregnant women who had sons. We suggest that fetal cells are present at sites of maternal tissue injury during pregnancy, and may participate in tissue repair.

Chronic shoulder pain in the community: a syndrome of disability or distress?

In those with chronic shoulder pain the relation between pain and psychological health seems to be linked to disability. Psychological distress was not explained by persistent pain itself.

Overall, these findings demonstrate the association between experiencing fitness-related pride and increased engagement in MVPA. The tenability of OIT was also demonstrated for offering insight into explaining the association between pride and physical activity engagement.

Is pineal calcification a novel risk factor for symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage?

Pineal calcification is associated with symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage.

Although the molecular mechanism mediating the effect of the sigma-receptor agonist on myelination remains to be elucidated, these results strongly suggest that neuroprotective molecules may be of therapeutic interest in demyelinating diseases such as MS.

Does a soy-based product fermented by Enterococcus faecium and Lactobacillus helveticus inhibit the development of murine breast adenocarcinoma?

The results suggested that the ingestion of FSP was most efficient in tumor containment, possibly due to a positive modulation of the immune system by when Enterococcus faecium and Lactobacillus helveticus are added to the soy product.

Polarized training can stimulate greater training effects than between-thresholds training in recreational runners.

Does mutation in the γ2-subunit of AMP-activated protein kinase stimulate cardiomyocyte proliferation and hypertrophy independent of glycogen storage?

Our study reveals a novel mechanism for Prkag2 cardiomyopathy, independent of glycogen storage. The role of γ2-AMP-activated protein kinase in cell growth also has broad implications in cardiac development, growth, and regeneration.

Meat proteins could be classified as fast digested proteins. However, this property depends on the chewing capacity of elderly subjects. This study showed that meat protein utilization for protein synthesis can be impaired by a decrease in the chewing efficiency of elderly subjects.

Is cardiac surgery safe in extremely obese patients (body mass index 50 or greater)?

Extreme obesity is not a contraindication to elective cardiac surgery. Studies stratifying the risk factors of mortality for nonelective surgery in extremely obese patients may be warranted.

PN is more frequently performed in high volume institutions particularly for small renal masses. We observed increase positive margin and complication rates in moderate volume centers that might be explained by an increased use of laparoscopy.

Dealing with heterogeneity of treatment effects: is the literature up to the challenge?

HTE is frequently ignored or incorrectly analyzed. An iterative process of exploratory analysis followed by confirmatory HTE analysis will generate the data needed to facilitate an individualized approach to evidence-based medicine.

Microscopic assessment of macroscopically normal hysterectomy specimens does not contribute to patient management and is unnecessary in an era of manpower shortage and cost containment.

Does prolyl-4-Hydroxylase 2 Potentially contribute to Hepatocellular Carcinoma-Associated Erythrocytosis by Maintaining Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor-4α Expression?

Our findings show that PHD2 represents a potential contributing factor for HCC-associated erythrocytosis. Selective inhibition of PHD2 in HCC cells might be considered as a new way to manage erythrocytosis in HCC patients.

Our data establish acute stress as an inducer of fear reemergence. The results provide further support for the hypothesis that fluoxetine interfered with mechanisms that reactivated extinguished fear, even when administered after fear extinction.

Do angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition and calcium antagonism attenuate streptozotocin-diabetes-associated mesenteric vascular hypertrophy independently of their hypotensive action?

These findings demonstrate that blockade both of angiotensin II-dependent and of calcium-dependent pathways attenuates mesenteric vascular hypertrophy in experimental diabetes. Furthermore, the antitrophic effects of these antihypertensive agents may be independent of their hypotensive effects.

We report the analysis of 1776 cells by scRNA-seq covering distinct human embryonic stem cell-derived progenitor states. By reconstructing a differentiation trajectory at single-cell resolution, novel regulators of the mesendoderm transition to DE are elucidated and validated. Our strategy of combining single-cell analysis and genetic approaches can be applied to uncover novel regulators governing cell fate decisions in a variety of systems.

Prognosis of metastatic breast cancer: are there differences between patients with de novo and recurrent metastatic breast cancer?

Patients with de novo metastatic breast cancer had a significantly better outcome when compared with patients with MFI<24 months, irrespective of the use of prior adjuvant systemic therapy in the latter group. However, compared with patients with MFI>24 months, patients with de novo metastatic breast cancer had similar outcome.

After surgery, group II PLA2 is increased in peritoneal exudates prior to elevation in the blood circulation and is produced by neutrophils recruited and activated at a local site. Group II PLA2 produced in peritoneal exudates by neutrophils has an important role in the physiological and pathological states at a local site, after surgery.

Does inhibition of nuclear factor kappaB by IkappaB superrepressor gene transfer ameliorate ischemia-reperfusion injury after experimental lung transplantation?

Inhibition of nuclear factor kappaB activation by IkappaBSR gene transfer improves transplanted lung graft oxygenation, decreases pulmonary edema and neutrophil sequestration, and reduces apoptotic cell death after experimental lung transplantation.

Fluid state was significantly related to peritoneal transport characteristics and rGFR. The larger ECW:height in CAPD patients with a negligible rGFR existed despite a higher peritoneal ultrafiltration volume and higher peritoneal glucose prescription. These findings raise doubts as to whether fluid state in CAPD patients with a diminished rGFR can be adequately controlled on standard glucose solutions without an additional sodium and fluid restriction. The preliminary finding of a relationship between CRP and fluid state might suggest a relationship between overhydration and inflammation.

Does the effect of sphingosine-1-phosphate on bone metabolism in humans depend on its plasma/bone marrow gradient?

Our current results using simultaneously collected blood and bone marrow samples suggest that the detrimental effects of S1P on bone metabolism in humans may depend on the S1P gradient between the peripheral blood and bone marrow cavity.

The accumulation of pleural fluid detectable on PMMR in children is related to post-mortem interval. If this holds for a larger population, it may therefore be a useful marker for estimating time of death. A similar relationship was not found for perinatal deaths and stillbirths, the reasons for which remain uncertain.

Are glycated hemoglobin levels mostly dependent on nonglycemic parameters in 9398 Finnish men without diabetes?

The variance in HbA1c among men without type 2 diabetes was largely determined by nonglycemic factors and only weakly by impaired insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion.

Alternating strenuous exercise with brief rest periods not only decreased overall clinical pain of FM subjects but also their mechanical hyperalgesia. No prolonged worsening of overall FM pain and hyperalgesia occurred despite vigorous muscle activity. Our findings contribute further evidence that FM pain and hyperalgesia are at least partially maintained by muscle impulse input, and that some types of exercises may be beneficial for FM.

Is development of homogeneous expression of resistance in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinical strains functionally associated with a beta-lactam-mediated SOS response?

The present results support the notion that SOS response is mechanistically involved in generating mutations that, in addition to mecA induction, allow the selection of a highly oxacillin-resistant population.

Our results provide additional insights into the potential molecular mechanisms of ductal bile secretion.

Does cytokeratin 8/18 expression indicate a poor prognosis in squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity?

The expression of Ck 8/18 in SCC's of the oral cavity is an independent prognostic marker and indicates a decreased overall and progression free survival. These results provide an extended knowledge about the role of intermediary filament expression patterns in SCC's.

TSP-1, through the activation of endogenous TGF-beta 1, up-regulates the plasminogen/plasmin system and promotes tumor cell invasion in breast cancer cells.

Does calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II inhibition in smooth muscle reduce angiotensin II-induced hypertension by controlling aortic remodeling and baroreceptor function?

CaMKII in VSMCs regulates blood pressure under Ang II hypertension by controlling structural gene expression, wall stiffness, and baroreceptor activity.

This is a large polysomnography-based case series of patients with NREM parasomnia. In patients with suspected sleepwalking or sleep terrors, polysomnography is highly useful in detecting arousals from NREM sleep as a marker of NREM parasomnia. We confirmed previous findings by demonstrating a high prevalence of the HLA DQB1*05:01 genotype for different types of NREM parasomnias. Our findings therefore support a common genetic background, and corroborate the importance of video-polysomnography in the work-up of parasomnia.

Does photodynamic therapy induce caspase-dependent apoptosis in rat CNV model?

PDT induced caspase-dependent apoptosis in CNV. These results suggest that PDT leads to dephosphorylation of Akt and subsequent activation of the caspase-dependent pathway. Understanding the intracellular signaling mechanisms of apoptosis in PDT may lead to more selective and effective treatment of CNV secondary to age-related macular degeneration.

Taken together, these data illustrated that NAC can be used as a potential protective agent against Cd-induced testicular toxicity, especially with regards to oxidative stress-induced Leydig cell toxicity.

Does effects of continuous fascia iliaca compartment block for postoperative analgesia in hip fracture patients?

Continuous FIB is a safe and effective technique for postoperative analgesia after hip fracture surgery, making it an option for pain management in elderly patients with hip fractures.

The present study demonstrates that any substance reaching the middle ear cavity is likely to induce otitis media. These observations emphasize the role of the eustachian tube as "porte d'entrée" in the pathogenesis of this disorder. Determination of specific aspects of the eustachian tube involved in protection or in facilitating bacterial translocation will be important for the understanding of the pathogenesis of otitis media and the subsequent development of new therapeutic strategies. In addition, elucidation of bacterial factors involved in the process of colonization and translocation will be of equal importance.

Does follicle curetting at the time of oocyte retrieval increase the oocyte yield?

This study demonstrated that follicle curetting significantly increased oocyte yield. While it did not increase live birth rates, this increase in oocyte yield should lead to increased numbers of embryos for selection at transfer and increased embryos for cryopreservation.

Losartan potassium, the first of a new class of potent and specific AT1-selective, non-peptide, angiotensin II antagonists, significantly reduces mean 24-h ambulatory blood pressure and trough clinic sitting blood pressure, and is well tolerated.

Is religiosity related to periodontal health among the adult Jewish population in Jerusalem?

Religiosity had a protective effect against periodontitis through extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. This should be considered as part of aetiology and prognosis, in potential prevention and care of periodontitis.

The majority of general practitioners would not use topical antibiotics in the presence of a perforated tympanic membrane. Most doctors would consider using a non-ototoxic topical antibiotic as first line treatment should one be made available.

Does reproductive correlate of depressive symptoms among low-income minority women?

A large percentage of women experience moderate to severe depressive symptoms during their reproductive years. These symptoms are associated with numerous risk behaviors, including inconsistent use of birth control. Women's health care providers have the opportunity to provide a valuable service by screening for depressive symptoms.

PP1cβ is regulator of endothelial cell migration, which is critical in the angiogenic process. PP1cβ inhibition reduces endothelial cell migration through focal adhesion turnover and actin polymerization pathways.

Is early knee osteoarthritis evident one year following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction : a magnetic resonance imaging evaluation?

OA 1 year following ACLR was more common than previously recognized, while being absent in uninjured control knees. The patellofemoral compartment seems to be at particular risk for early OA after ACLR, especially in men. The association with meniscectomy and BMI demonstrates the construct validity of MRI criteria.

These results indicate that CC10 gene transfer may inhibit airway inflammation through suppressing the activation of NF-κB, which may provide us a new consideration in the therapy of airway inflammation.

Does increased expression of estrogen receptor α-36 by breast cancer oncogene IKKε promote growth of ER-negative breast cancer cells?

These results suggest that IKKε increases ERα-36 expression and is involved in ERα-36 mediated non-genomic estrogen signaling.

In this population, mutations in the optineurin gene are not associated with adult-onset primary POAG.

Does cD28-B7 T-cell co-stimulatory blockade potentiate the effects of intrathymic immunomodulation in sensitized graft recipients?

CTLA4Ig enhances the effects of intrathymic donor-type cell infusion in sensitized rat recipients of cardiac allografts, indicating that "peripheral" blockade of CD28-B7 T-cell co-stimulation synergizes with the "central" immunosuppressive effects of intrathymic immunomodulation.

Our data suggest that, in type 2 diabetic patients with CAD, hypoglycaemic episodes are associated with depressed HRV and that beta-blocking agents are able to contrast this relation. These interesting results merit to be investigated in a larger population of patients.

Does neurod1 modulate opioid antinociceptive tolerance via two distinct mechanisms?

Neurod1 regulates the developments of opioid tolerance via a time-dependent pathway through contextual learning and a short-response pathway through antinociception.

Oral administration of Lact. fermentum CRL1446 to mice increases total intestinal FE activity, decreases the basal percentage of plasmatic lipoperoxides and increases GR activity.

Do the organizational reforms of general practice care meet users' concerns?

Our results support a comprehensive approach of care and argue in favour of care reorganization following the patient-centred model. To promote organizational care reforms through the prism of the doctor-patient relationship could thus be a fruitful way to insure a better quality of care and the social acceptability of the reforms.

MCMV reactivation decreased lung bacterial clearance and favoured the development of staphylococcal abscessing pneumonia. CMV reactivation may be responsible for a higher susceptibility to bacterial sepsis.

Is natural course of chronic hepatitis B characterized by changing patterns of programmed death type-1 of CD8-positive T cells?

The PD-l/PD-L1 pathway plays a different role in T-cell response during the natural course of chronic HBV infection.

TSA and LBH589 can cause cell cycle arrest and induce apoptosis in OS-RC-2 cells, in which process P-JNK pathway plays an important role.

Do contrast agents provide a faster learning curve in dipyridamole stress echocardiography?

The use of contrast agents provides a better agreement in the evaluation of stress echo between an experienced and a non-experienced observer in stress echo. Adding routinely contrast agents could probably reduce the number of exams required for the necessary learning curve in stress echocardiography.

Suggestions for improvement in competency levels, such as the provision of more opportunities for practice, are offered based on the specific findings of this study and in light of previous research.

Does bCG prophylaxis in bladder cancer produce activation of recruited neutrophils?

This study suggests that PMN neutrophils can participate in reducing the recurrence of bladder cancer by promoting urothelial cell turnover proportionally to their degree of activation. Our results provide further evidence to support the role of PMN neutrophils in BCG immunotherapy.

The RDR test based on circulating RBP4 is unlikely to reflect the hepatic vitamin A status in preterm infants.

Do cardiovascular risk scores account for the effect of treatment : a review?

The use of risk-factor-modifying drugs-for example, statins-and disease-modifying medication-for example, platelet inhibitors-was not accounted for. In addition, none of the risk scores addressed the effect of treatment drop-ins-that is, treatment started during the study period. Ideally, a risk score should be derived from a population free from treatment. The lack of accounting for treatment effect and the wide variation in study characteristics, predictors and outcomes causes difficulties in the use of cardiovascular risk scores for clinical treatment decision.

Our study demonstrated a dual role for MRP8/14 in bacterial keratitis. Although MRP8/14 promotes bacterial clearance by enhancing ROS production, it functions more importantly as an inflammatory amplifier at the ocular surface by enhancing pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, thus contributing to the corneal susceptibility.

Does transcranial magnetic stimulation reveal cortical hyperexcitability in episodic cluster headache?

We investigated cortical excitability in episodic cluster headache by using transcranial magnetic stimulation, providing evidence of cortical hyperexcitability in patients both inside and outside bout. We suggest that an abnormal state of cortical excitability could be involved in the pathophysiology of the disease.

FLS skills can be given to novice learners without concern for detrimental effects as might be expected by other work on goal theory. Given that performance was the same for both groups, surgical educators may have multiple pathways to educational success when incorporating goals into training programs for basic surgical skills.

Does placental malaria increase malaria risk in the first 30 months of life?

Our findings show that active placental P. falciparum infection detected at delivery is associated with an approximately 2-fold greater risk of malaria during early life, compared with noninfection. The fact that persons born to infected multigravidae rather than primigravidae appear to be at greater risk emphasizes the importance of preventing malaria in mothers of all gravidities.

Higher ferritin and lower TSAT are associated with higher risk of preDM in a general population without confounding diseases. Further research is needed to examine the underlying mechanism of these two indices, especially TSAT, in the pathophysiology of preDM.

Does anti-factor IXa Aptamer reduce propagation of thrombin generation in plasma anticoagulated with warfarin?

The anti-FIXa aptamer potentiates the inhibitory effects of warfarin on TG, and may fill the need as an adjuvant agent during initiation of warfarin therapy.

Although most CCC plans follow CDC-recommended tobacco control recommendations and funding levels, not all recommendations are addressed by every plan and certain recommendations are addressed in varying numbers of plans. Clearer prioritization of tobacco control recommendations by CDC may improve the extent to which they are followed and therefore maximize their public health benefit.

Does thrombospondin-1 contribute to mortality in murine sepsis through effects on innate immunity?

TSP-1 deficiency was protective in two murine models of peritoneal sepsis, independent of TGFβ1 activation. Our studies suggest TSP-1 expression is associated with decreased phagocytosis and possibly bacterial clearance, leading to increased peritoneal inflammation and mortality in WT mice. These data support the contention that TSP-1 should be more fully explored in the human condition.

Despite a reduced amount of the drug, paclitaxel coating applied to both ends of the ePTFE hemodialysis grafts effectively suppressed neointimal hyperplasia at the sites of anastomosis.

Does preoperative anal physiology testing or ultrasonography predict clinical outcome with sacral neuromodulation for fecal incontinence?

Anal physiology testing and ultrasonography were not predictive of clinical outcomes among patients treated with sacral neuromodulation for fecal incontinence.

The optimal choice of treatment for patients with early stage Hodgkin's disease--combined modality treatment/radiotherapy alone/chemotherapy alone?--and for patients with advanced stages--consolidation radiotherapy?--remains an unresolved issue and needs further testing in large randomized trials considering acute and late complications. Staging laparotomy may be used only for a small group of patients who would receive radiotherapy alone as definitive treatment. Modifications of therapy clearly reduce the impact of negative prognostic factors.

Do cell-free DNA blood levels in colorectal cancer patients correlate with mismatch repair-proficiency?

Compared to MMR-proficient CRCs, MMR-deficient tumors occurred in older patients, and were more commonly proximally-located. Despite the presence of distinct biological and histopathological characteristics, both tumor types produced similar CFD blood levels.

Selective reporting helps physicians choose the most appropriate antibiotics for their patients within a stewardship program, with reduced C. difficile infection.

Are collagen gene variants previously associated with anterior cruciate ligament injury risk also associated with joint laxity?

Gene variants previously associated with ACL injury risk were in large part also associated with joint laxity. Sex-specific genetic associations with joint laxity were consistent with those previously reported for ACL injury.

ESRD patients showed alterations in cortical excitability that can be reversed by replacement therapies. We propose that the drop in plasma osmolarity is a key to the mechanism underlying post-haemodialysis cortical hyperexcitability.

Does miR-34a induce the downregulation of both E2F1 and B-Myb oncogenes in leukemic cells?

Owing to the role of B-Myb and E2F1 transcription factors in controlling cell-cycle progression of leukemic cells, the downregulation of these oncogenes by miR-34a suggests the usefulness of therapeutic approaches aimed to modulate the levels of miR-34a.

Circumcision of men in this population did not reduce their risk of acquiring these nonulcerative STIs. Improved STI control will require more-effective STI management, including partner treatment and behavioral risk reduction counseling.

Does interplay of N-Cadherin and matrix metalloproteinase 9 enhance human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell invasion?

Extracellular and intracellular cleavage of N-cadherin might be involved in elevated MMP-9 expression enhancing tumor cell invasion. Furthermore, N-cadherin-affected tumor progression might be via enhanced MMP-9 signaling in a cross-talk regulatory mechanism. N-cadherin might contribute to the invasive characteristics of carcinoma cells by upregulating MMP-9, thereby leading to increased aggressive metastasis.

The study confirms previously reported higher arm swing asymmetry in PD but also shows there is significantly lower MXC and greater IRP variability, suggesting that reduction in bilateral arm coordination may contribute to clinically observed asymmetry in PD. The differential correlation of clinical measures of motor disability with measurements of arm swing during gait is intriguing and deserves further investigation.

Is garlic-derived compound S-allylmercaptocysteine ( SAMC ) active against anaplastic thyroid cancer cell line 8305C ( HPACC )?

SAMC inhibits the growth of HPACC-8305C cells by induction of apoptotic cell death and inhibit telomerase activity, which appears to account for its anti-cancer activity.

There is an increase in inhibitory properties of human chorionic villi during normal pregnancy. The mechanism underlying ESA might be associated with enhanced expression of CD200 and CD200R in the trophoblast, leading to an upregulation of the immune response during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Is hOMA-estimated insulin resistance an independent predictor of cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetic subjects : prospective data from the Verona Diabetes Complications Study?

HOMA-IR is an independent predictor of CVD in type 2 diabetes. The improvement of insulin resistance might have beneficial effects not only on glucose control but also on CVD in patients with type 2 diabetes.

These data suggest that HA-PCOS is associated with hepatic steatosis, independent of obesity and insulin resistance.

Do preventive care delivered within Public Dental Service after caries risk assessment of young adults?

The caries risk assessment process was not accompanied by a corresponding targeted individual preventive care in a cohort of young adults attending public dental service. Further research is needed how to reach those with the greatest need of primary and secondary prevention.

Young maternal age increases the risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes and it is a stronger predictor for low birth weight and preterm delivery than other established risk factors in sub-Saharan Africa. This finding highlights the need to improve adolescent reproductive health in sub-Saharan Africa.

Does the child self-refraction study result from urban Chinese children in Guangzhou?

Self-refraction seems to be less prone to accommodative inaccuracy than noncycloplegic autorefraction, another modality appropriate for use in areas where access to eye care providers is limited. Visual results seem to be comparable. Greater cylindrical power is associated with less accurate results; the adjustable glasses used in this study cannot correct astigmatism. Further studies of the practical applications of this modality are warranted.

There was a significant association between metabolic response and pathological response; however, accuracy in predicting pathological response was relatively low.

Is alternative lengthening of telomeres in primary pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms associated with aggressive clinical behavior and poor survival?

Both primary ALT-positive and ATRX/DAXX-negative PanNETs are independently associated with aggressive clinicopathologic behavior and displayed reduced recurrence-free survival. In contrast, ALT activation and loss of ATRX/DAXX are both associated with better overall survival in patients with metastases. Therefore, these biomarkers may be used as prognostic markers depending on the context of the disease.

Elevation of eRAP by echocardiography at baseline assessment was strongly associated with increased risk of death or transplant in patients with PAH. This measurement may represent an important prognostic component in the comprehensive echocardiographic evaluation of PAH.

Does a specific Streptococcus mutans strain aggravate non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

These results suggest that a specific strain of S. mutans could induce NASH.

Human retinal microglia express several candidate receptors required for viral binding and as such may be a potential reservoir for HIV-1 infection.

Does dietary extra-virgin olive oil prevent inflammatory response and cartilage matrix degradation in murine collagen-induced arthritis?

These results support the interest of EVOO as a beneficial functional food to prevent the development of the rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

These results provide experimental evidence to support our conceptual astrocyte-microglia lactate shuttle model formulated from our previous NMR-based metabolomics study - highlighting the fact that lactic acid plays an important role in neuroinflammatory diseases such as TBM. Furthermore, this study reinforces our belief that the determination of enantiomers of metabolites corresponding to infectious diseases is of critical importance in substantiating the clinical significance of disease markers.

Do delta-opioid receptor antagonists prevent sensitization to the conditioned rewarding effects of morphine?

These data indicate a critical role of DOPr systems in mediating sensitization to the conditioned rewarding effects of morphine. The efficacy of naltrindole and naltriben in preventing the enhanced response to morphine suggest the specific involvement of DOPr2 in the sensitization process.

Our data thus support the view that commonly reported trigger factors of migraine are not so much independent precipitators of migraine pain, but that they are most likely just misinterpreted results of enhanced attention to certain stimuli mediated by typical premonitory symptoms of migraine pain.

Does perinatal cocaine exposure impair myocardial beta-adrenoceptor signaling in the neonatal rat?

This study shows that maternal cocaine use during pregnancy impairs the beta-adrenoceptor signaling pathway in the rat during the first week of life. Abnormal cardiac function in the cocaine-exposed neonate may be related to a defect in beta-adrenoceptors, because they regulate cardiac function.

Tooth loss independently predicts low energy and protein intake, as well as serum albumin levels, biomarkers of malnutrition in CKD.

Is esophoria a factor in slowing of myopia by progressive lenses?

Although there were no statistically significant differences between esophoric and nonesophoric subjects, there was only 46% as much myopia progression in the progressive lenses-esophoric group as in the progressive lenses-nonesophoric group. In addition, there were no differences in AC/A ratio between esophoric and nonesophoric subjects. However these findings are not definitive. This experiment was not designed to discriminate between refraction and oculomotor changes in esophoric and nonesophoric subjects and lacked the necessary statistical power to do so.

A traditional food diversity score was a useful tool for predicting nutrient adequacy for the Awajún. Promotion of the Awajún traditional food system should focus on dietary diversity and unique nutrient-dense local foods.

Does contractile activity of human skeletal muscle cells prevent insulin resistance by inhibiting pro-inflammatory signalling pathways?

We showed that the effects of electrical pulse stimulation on skeletal muscle cells were similar to the effect of exercise on skeletal muscle in vivo in terms of enhanced AMPK activation and IL-6 secretion. In our model, muscle contractile activity eliminates insulin resistance by blocking pro-inflammatory signalling pathways. This novel model therefore provides a unique tool for investigating the molecular mechanisms that mediate the beneficial effects of muscle contraction.

Image-based navigation improves the accuracy and reproducibility of humeral component placement in TEA. Implant alignment errors for the navigated alignments were below the target of 2.0 degrees and 2 mm that is considered standard for most navigation systems. Non-navigated implant alignment error was significantly greater for the bone loss scenario compared with the intact scenario.

Does leucocytosis identify bacterial infections in febrile neonates presenting to the emergency department?

In a cohort of febrile neonates evaluated in the emergency department, the WBC count had modest discriminatory power in identifying neonates with bacterial infections and demonstrated substantial overlap among groups. The present data suggest against the use of any WBC count threshold to identify bacterial infections in febrile neonates presenting to the emergency department.

Tumor cell proliferation after 3 months of neoadjuvant hormonal treatment is a prognostic marker of failure after radical prostatectomy without correlation to Gleason score or the histopathologic regressive changes resulting from hormonal treatment.

Does comparison of laboratory test result before and after surgical removal of heartworms in dogs with vena caval syndrome?

Hepatic and renal functions improve rapidly after surgical removal of heartworms, presumably because general and pulmonary circulation is normalized. However, cholestasis may develop, and dogs that survive may need additional treatment to preserve hepatic function.

Extensive DWI changes in a watershed distribution in term-born neonates are not invariably associated with adverse sequelae, even in the presence of cystic evolution. Associated lesions of the basal ganglia and thalami are a better predictor of adverse sequelae than the extent and severity of the watershed abnormalities seen on DW-MRI.

Is prehospital cardiac arrest outcome adversely associated with antiarrythmic agent use , but not associated with presenting complaint or medical history?

There is little relation of patient historical factors on the outcome from prehospital cardiac arrest raising issues of efficiency with history taking in prehospital care and transport.

The protective effects of curcumin against 6-OHDA may be attributable to the iron-chelating activity of curcumin to suppress the iron-induced degeneration of nigral dopaminergic neurons.

Can a multifaceted educational intervention targeting both nurses and physicians change the prescribing of antibiotics to nursing home residents?

The educational intervention had no effect on the primary outcome, but decreased the overall prescribing of antibiotics.

The present study demonstrated for the first time that other than white blood cell count, eGFR was an independent correlate of serum levels of MCP-1 in a Japanese general population. Elevated MCP-1 levels may partly explain the increased risk of CVD in CKD patients.

Do experiences of patients with laryngectomies as they reintegrate into their community?

Patients with laryngectomies face major changes in lifestyle related to altered airway, loss of voice, body image concerns, and challenges with eating. Support of family, friends, and health care professionals is critical for successful transition during this stressful period. Instant messaging, email, Web-based support groups, and video messaging can contribute to a great improvement in communication and engagement for this population.

The compounds 1b, 1c and 1d showed potent inhibitory activities against the entry of A/Thailand/Kan353/2004 pseudovirus into the target cells, and among them compound 1d showed the strongest inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 0.96 ± 0.10 µmol/L. The structure-activity relationship analysis of these compounds indicated that when 17-COOH of ursolic acid was esterified, introduction of Me groups rather than aryl groups more strongly enhanced the inhibitory activity. Changing 17-COOH of ursolic acid into amide could increase the antiviral activity and decrease the cytotoxicity of the compounds in MDCK cells.

Neonatal outcomes among multiple births ≤ 32 weeks gestational age: does mode of conception have an impact?

In our population of preterm multiple births, the mode of conception had no detectable effect on the adjusted composite neonatal outcome of mortality and/or three neonatal morbidities.

Gastric mucosal ischemia is not a major risk factor for intolerance to early gastric feeding in the critically ill.

Is cardiology evaluation necessary in children with electrocardiogram abnormalities noted on polysomnogram?

Cardiac pathology in children with abnormal ECGs on PSG is common. Cardiology referral in such patients should be considered. Further research is needed to determine the appropriate cardiac workup.

Our study showed no statistically significant difference in PSA levels between patients with and without NIH IV prostatitis accompanying PCa.

Does corpus sterni reinforcement improve the stability of primary sternal closure in high-risk patients?

Our findings suggest that primary sternal closure with longitudinal wire reinforcement on both sides of the corpus sterni will decrease the risk of infection and improve wound-healing in parallel with a decrease in sternal dehiscence.

We show that increasing experience allows more complex tumours to be removed with similar outcomes in patients undergoing RAPN. The complication rates and perioperative outcomes were similar in four successive quartiles of an initial experience of RAPN.

Is cardiorespiratory fitness , but not central obesity or C-reactive protein , related to liver function in obese children?

In obese children, higher cardiovascular fitness appears to reduce the chance of decreased liver function.

Our results demonstrate the feasibility of genome-wide paired-end sequencing for the characterisation of balanced rearrangements and identification of candidate genes in patients with potentially disease-associated chromosome rearrangements. The family samples were gathered as a part of our recently launched National Registry of Reciprocal Balanced Translocations and Inversions in Finland (n=2575), and we believe that such a registry will be a powerful resource for the localisation of chromosomal aberrations, which can bring insight into the aetiology of related phenotypes.

Are health care professionals advising obese patients to lose weight?

Less than half of obese adults report being advised to lose weight by health care professionals. Barriers to counseling need to be identified and addressed.

This large study demonstrates that severe postoperative complications have a strong impact on the long-term survival of patients with pancreatic head cancer comparable to tumor characteristics, such as lymph node status, grading, or R status. As a result, the improvement of surgical procedures in specialized centers might lead to a survival benefit in these patients.

Do a national survey of the arrangements managed-care plans make with physicians?

Managed-care plans, particularly HMOs, have complex systems for selecting, paying, and monitoring their physicians. Hybrid forms are common, and the differences between group or staff HMOs and network or IPA HMOs are less extensive than is commonly assumed.

Our results indicated that treatment/intervention of women with GDM identified by IADPSG criteria was related to significantly lower risk of multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes. Such findings provide support for applying IADPSG criteria in China.

Is reduced BRCA1 transcript levels in freshly isolated blood leukocytes from BRCA1 mutation carriers mutation specific?

Overall, these findings support the concept of BRCA1 haploinsufficiency wherein a specific mutation results in dosage-dependent alteration of BRCA1 at the transcriptional level. This study is the first to show a decrease in BRCA1 mRNA expression in freshly isolated blood leukocytes from healthy, unaffected BRCA1 mutation carriers.

This is the first report to show a relationship between serum RANKL and the expression of RANKL mRNA in bone.

Is chemotherapy response an important predictor of local recurrence in Ewing sarcoma?

Local recurrence after surgical resection is a complex phenomenon. An important predictive factor is the response to chemotherapy. In the current study, this seems to have the largest impact. Central site of disease may be a second independent predictive factor.

Taken together, these data indicate that 6-TG regulates PTHrP in part through GLI2 transcription, and therefore the clinical use of 6-TG or other guanosine nucleotides may be a viable therapeutic option in tumor types expressing elevated levels of GLI proteins.