bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Case-control investigation of occupational lead exposure and kidney cancer
Authors: Callahan Catherine L , Friesen Melissa C , Locke Sarah J , Dopart Pamela J , Stewart Patricia A , Schwartz Kendra , Ruterbusch Julie J , Graubard Barry I , Chow Wong-Ho , Rothman Nathaniel , Hofmann Jonathan N , Purdue Mark P 
Published: February 2019

ObjectivesLead is a suspected carcinogen that has been inconsistently associated with kidney cancer. To clarify this relationship, we conducted an analysis of occupational lead exposure within a population-based study of kidney cancer using detailed exposure assessment methods.MethodsStudy participants (1217 cases and 1235 controls), enrolled between 2002 and 2007, provided information on their occupational histories and, for selected lead-related occupations, answered questions regarding workplace tasks, and use of protective equipment. Industrial hygienists used this information to develop several estimates of occupational lead exposure, including probability, duration and cumulative exposure. Unconditional logistic regression was used to compute ORs and 95% CIs for different exposure metrics, with unexposed subjects serving as the reference group. Analyses were also conducted stratifying on several factors, including for subjects of European ancestry only, single nucleotide polymorphisms inALAD(rs1805313, rs1800435, rs8177796, rs2761016), a gene involved in lead toxicokinetics.ResultsIn our study, cumulative occupational lead exposure was not associated with kidney cancer (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.7 to 1.3 for highest quartile vs unexposed; ptrend=0.80). Other lead exposure metrics were similarly null. We observed no evidence of effect modification for the evaluatedALADvariants (subjects of European ancestry only, 662 cases and 561 controls) and most stratifying factors, although lead exposure was associated with increased risk among never smokers.ConclusionsThe findings of this study do not offer clear support for an association between occupational lead exposure and kidney cancer.
Developing practical recommendations for preventative healthcare consultations involving dogs and cats using a Delphi technique
Authors: Belshaw Zoe , Robinson Natalie Jane , Brennan Marnie Louise , Dean Rachel S 
Published: February 2019

Preventive healthcare is the focus of a large proportion of UK small animal veterinary consultations. The evidence base for how to optimise these consultations is limited. Therefore, evidence‐based practical recommendations are needed for veterinary surgeons conducting these consultations. The aim of this study was to use an evidence‐based methodology to develop the first consensus recommendations to improve dog and cat preventative healthcare consultations (PHCs).Evidence from multiple sources was systematically examined to generate a list of 18 recommendations. Veterinary surgeons and pet owners with extensive experience of PHCs were recruited to an anonymous panel to obtain consensus on whether these recommendations would improve PHCs. A Delphi technique was followed during three rounds of online questionnaire, with consensus set at 80 per cent agreement or disagreement with each recommendation. Thirteen of the original 18 recommendations reached consensus (>80per cent agreement), while the five remaining recommendations did not reach consensus.Globally, these are the first evidence‐based recommendations developed specifically in relation to small animal general practice PHCs, generated via a Delphi panel including both veterinary surgeons and pet owners. Future work is needed to understand how these recommendations can be implemented in a range of veterinary practice settings.
Chondrosarcoma of the Hand Bones: A Report of 6 Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: García-Jiménez Antonio , Chanes-Puiggrós Camila , Trullols-Tarragó Laura , Pulido-García María-Carmen 
Published: February 2019

Background: Primary malignant tumours of the hand are extremely rare, with chondrosarcoma being the most common. We describe six consecutive cases of chondrosarcoma (CS) of the hand, with a follow-up of 12 months to 10 years after surgical intervention. Methods: Five cases were primary tumors and one was secondary to Ollier’s disease. Mean age at diagnosis was 67.5 years (range 46 to 85 years) and three patients were males. The bone most commonly affected was the proximal phalanx (in 4 patients), followed by the metacarpal bone (3 cases in the other 2 patients). The first symptom was an increase in volume in five cases and a pathological fracture in one. The x-ray study showed signs of malignancy in two cases only. In the other four cases, CT and MRI studies were necessary to complete the diagnosis. Results: Primary amputation was performed in two cases and intralesional curettage and cancellous bone autograft in four. Primary amputation was performed in two cases and intralesional curettage and cancellous bone autograft in four. We found three grade I/III CS and three grade II/III CS in the histological study. Local recurrences occurred in three patients, two being grade II/III CS. One of the three had undergone an initial amputation and underwent re-amputation, another had had curettage of the lesion and was amputated, and the third patient decided not to undergo the procedure due to her age. A pulmonary nodule was suspected at the most recent follow up in a fourth patient, who had been diagnosed with a grade II/III CS. Conclusions: Although CS of the hand bones behaves as a locally aggressive lesion, it rarely metastasizes. Intralesional curettage with a cancellous bone autograft appears to be a good option in low-grade CS to preserve the function, keeping in mind the high rate of recurrence. Wide excision or amputation is recommended when severe joint deformity or soft tissue involvement interferes with hand function.
Unstable Dorsal Fracture-Dislocations of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint: Volar Plate Fixation with or without Bone Graft
Authors: Milner Chris , Samson Deepak , Tan Simon 
Published: February 2019

Background: To evaluate the treatment of severe dorsal fracture dislocation (DFD) injuries of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) by open reduction, bone grafting and fixation with mini-hook plates. Methods: Fourteen patients with extensive dorsal fracture dislocation of the PIPJ were operatively treated to reconstruct the fractured middle phalanx volar lip using a fabricated hook plate in conjunction with elevation and bone grafting of depressed articular fragments where present. Results: Restoration of PIPJ articular anatomy and congruence by hook plate fixation permitted full-range mobilization of the joint during fracture healing, with an average arc of motion of 81° and an average loss of extension of 12.9° at a minimum of 6 months follow up. Hook plate treatment of PIPJ fracture dislocation restores articular anatomy and joint congruence at a single sitting and permits post-operative mobilization without the need for extension block splinting. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate a good range of motion following treatment, however hardware removal and tenolysis was necessary in 36% of cases.
Comparative Biomechanical Characteristics of Modified Side-to-Side Repair and Modified Pulvertaft Weaving Repair – In vitro Study
Authors: Kannan Sudhir , Ghosh Arijit I. , Dias Joseph J. , Singh Harvinder Pal 
Published: February 2019

Background: Strong surgical repair is the mechanical basis of early mobilization and prerequisite for biological healing following tendon grafting. Side to side and pulvertaft repairs were developed to meets these demands. However, these techniques have later been modified to improve the strength of repair but their characteristics have not been compared. Methods: We compared biomechanical strength of the modified side-to-side (SS) repair with the modified Pulvertaft (PT) repair technique in turkey tendons keeping overlap length, anchor points, type of suture, suture throw and amount of suture similar. Two investigators performed 34 repairs during one summer month to test the tensile strength of the repair using mechanical strength testing machine. Variables measured were maximum load, load to first failure, modulus, load at break, mode of failure, site of failure, tensile strain, tensile stress. The statistical comparison was carried by Levene’s test and T test for means. Results: The mean maximum load for modified SS repair was 50.3 (SD 13.7) N and modified PT repair was 46.9 (SD 16.4) N. The tensile stress at maximum load for SS and modified PT repair was 4.7 (SD 4) MPa and 4.2 (SD 3) MPa respectively. The suture cut through was the commonest mode of failure. Conclusions: We found no statistical difference between 2 repairs in load at which they started failing (p = 0.16), and maximum load repairs could withstand (p = 0.35). Our study uniquely compares two techniques under standard conditions, and contrary to existing evidence found no difference. However, in our opinion the number of anchor points may have a greater impact than number of weaves on the strength.
Coagulation changes induced by lower-body negative pressure in men and women
Authors: Cvirn Gerhard , Waha James E. , Brix Bianca , Rössler Andreas , Jantscher Andreas , Schlagenhauf Axel , Koestenberger Martin , Wonisch Willibald , Wagner Thomas , Goswami Nandu 
Published: February 2019

We investigated whether lower-body negative pressure (LBNP) application leads to coagulation activation in whole blood (WB) samples in healthy men and women. Twenty-four women and 21 men, all healthy young participants, with no histories of thrombotic disorders and not on medications, were included. LBNP was commenced at −10 mmHg and increased by −10 mmHg every 5 min until a maximum of −40 mmHg. Recovery up to 10 min was also monitored. Blood samples were collected at baseline, at end of LBNP, and end of recovery. Hemostatic profiling included comparing the effects of LBNP on coagulation values in both men and women using standard coagulation tests, calibrated automated thrombogram, thrombelastometry, impedance aggregometry, and markers of thrombin formation. LBNP led to coagulation activation determined in both plasma and WB samples. At baseline, women were hypercoagulable compared with men, as evidenced by their shorter “lag times” and higher thrombin peaks and by shorter “coagulation times” and “clot formation times.” Moreover, men were more susceptible to LBNP, as reflected in their elevated factor VIII levels and decreased lag times following LBNP. LBNP-induced coagulation activation was not accompanied by endothelial activation. Women appear to be relatively hypercoagulable compared with men, but men are more susceptible to coagulation changes during LBNP. The application of LBNP might be a useful future tool to identify individuals with an elevated risk for thrombosis, in subjects with or without history of thrombosis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY LBNP led to coagulation activation determined in both plasma and whole blood samples. At baseline, women were hypercoagulable compared with men. Men were, however, more susceptible to coagulation changes during LBNP. LBNP-induced coagulation activation was not accompanied by endothelial activation. The application of LBNP might be a useful future tool to identify individuals with an elevated risk for thrombosis, in subjects with or without history of thrombosis.
Inactivity induces resistance to the metabolic benefits following acute exercise
Authors: Akins John D. , Crawford Charles K. , Burton Heath M. , Wolfe Anthony S. , Vardarli Emre , Coyle Edward F. 
Published: February 2019

Acute exercise improves postprandial lipemia, glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity, all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. However, recent research suggests that prolonged sedentary behavior might abolish these healthy metabolic benefits. Accordingly, this study aimed to elucidate the impact of an acute bout of exercise on postprandial plasma triglyceride, glucose, and insulin concentrations after 4 days of prolonged sitting (~13.5 h/day). Ten untrained to recreationally active men ( n = 5) and women ( n = 5) completed a counterbalanced, crossover study. Four days of prolonged sitting without exercise (SIT) were compared with 4 days of prolonged sitting with a 1-h bout of treadmill exercise (SIT + EX; 63.1 ± 5.2% V̇o2max) on the evening of the fourth day. The following morning, participants completed a high-fat/glucose tolerance test (HFGTT), during which plasma was collected over a 6-h period and analyzed for triglycerides, glucose, and insulin. No differences between trials ( P > 0.05) were found in the overall plasma triglyceride, glucose, or insulin responses during the HFGTT. This lack of difference between trials comes with similarly low physical activity (~3,500–4,000 steps/day) on each day except for the 1-h bout of exercise during SIT + EX the day before the HFGTT. These data indicate that physical inactivity (e.g., sitting ~13.5 h/day and <4,000 steps/day) creates a condition whereby people become “resistant” to the metabolic improvements that are typically derived from an acute bout of aerobic exercise (i.e., exercise resistance). NEW & NOTEWORTHY In people who are physically inactive and sitting for a majority of the day, a 1-h bout of vigorous exercise failed to improve lipid, glucose, and insulin metabolism measured the next day. It seems that something inherent to inactivity and/or prolonged sitting makes the body resistant to the 1 h of exercise preventing the normally derived metabolic improvements following exercise.
Assessment of two methods to determine the relative contributions of the aerobic and anaerobic energy systems in racehorses
Authors: Bond Stephanie L. , Greco-Otto Persephone , Sides Raymond , Kwong Grace P. S. , Léguillette Renaud , Bayly Warwick M. 
Published: February 2019

A prospective, randomized, controlled study was designed to determine relative aerobic and anaerobic (lactic and alactic) contributions at supramaximal exercise intensities using two different methods. Thoroughbred racehorses ( n = 5) performed a maximal rate of oxygen consumption (V̇o2max) test and three supramaximal treadmill runs (105, 115, and 125% V̇o2max). Blood lactate concentration (BL) was measured at rest, every 15 s during runs, and 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min postexercise. In method 1, oxygen demand was calculated for each supramaximal intensity based on the V̇o2maxtest, and relative aerobic and anaerobic contributions were calculated from measured V̇o2and the accumulated oxygen deficit. In method 2, aerobic contribution was calculated using the trapezoidal method to determine V̇o2during exercise. A monoexponential model was fitted to the postexercise V̇o2curve. Alactic contribution was calculated using the coefficients of this model. Lactate anaerobic contribution was calculated by multiplying the peak to resting change in BL by 3. Linear mixed-effects models were used to examine the effects of exercise intensity and method (as fixed effects) on measured outcomes ( P ≤ 0.05). Relative aerobic and anaerobic contributions were not different between methods ( P = 0.20). Horses’ mean contributions were 81.4, 77.6, and 72.5% (aerobic), and 18.5, 22.3, and 27.4% (anaerobic) at 105, 115, and 125% V̇o2max, respectively. Individual alactic anaerobic energy was not different between supramaximal exercise intensities ( P = 0.43) and was negligible, contributing a mean of 0.11% of the total energy. Relative energy contributions can be calculated using measured V̇o2and BL in situations where the exercise intensity is unknown. Understanding relative metabolic demands could help develop tailored training programs.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Relative energy contributions of horses can be calculated using measured V̇o2and BL in situations where the exercise intensity is unknown. Horses’ mean contributions were 81.4, 77.6, and 72.5% (aerobic), and 18.5, 22.3, and 27.4% (anaerobic) at 105, 115, and 125% of V̇o2max, respectively. Individual alactic capacity was unaltered between supramaximal exercise intensities and accounted for a mean contribution of 0.11% of energy use.
Functionalized Graphene Derivatives: Antibacterial Properties and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Valentini Federica , Calcaterra Andrea , Ruggiero Vincenzo , Pichichero Elena , Martino Assunta , Iosi Francesca , Bertuccini Lucia , Antonaroli Simonetta , Mardente Stefania , Zicari Alessandra , Mari Emanuela , Iovenitti Giulia , Leone Gemma , Botta Maurizio , Talamo Maurizio 
Published: February 2019

In this work, the authors prepared and characterized two different graphene oxides: one chemically synthesized (GO sample) and the other one electrochemically synthesized (GO(LiCl)). Both samples were fully characterized with atomic force microscopy (AFM), Raman and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies, X-ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS), thermal analysis (TG/DTA), andZ-potential. The antibacterial properties of both graphene oxides were studied using Gram-negativeEscherichia coliATCC 25922 and Gram-positiveStaphylococcus aureusATCC 25923 by spectrophotometer and viable cell count as indirect and direct methods, respectively. Results demonstrated that the GO(LiCl)exhibited a significant antibacterial activity compared to GO that showed a bacteriostatic effect on both pathogens. Electron microscopy analysis confirmed the antibacterial effects of both graphene oxides toward the pathogens, especially working at 80 μg/mL, for 24 h. Additional studies were also performed and both GO samples were not cytotoxic at 2 μg/mL toward neuroblastoma cells. Moreover, 2 μg of GO was suitable to carry the minimum effective dose (5.74 ng/mL) of kinase inhibitor S29 (1-(2-chloro-2-(4-chlorophenyl)ethyl)-N-(4-fluorobenzyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d] pyrimidin-4-amine), providing negligible side effects related to the S29 treatment (this latter being specifically active on the neuroblastoma cell lines (SK-N-BE(2))).
Low Preoperative Prolactin Levels Predict Non-Organ Confined Prostate Cancer in Clinically Localized Disease
Authors: Porcaro Antonio Benito , Tafuri Alessandro , Sebben Marco , Cacciamani Giovanni , Ghimenton Claudio , Brunelli Matteo , Petrozziello Aldo , Monaco Carmelo , Migliorini Filippo , Siracusano Salvatore , Artibani Walter 
Published: February 2019

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> To evaluate the association between preoperative serum prolactin (PRL) levels and risk of non-organ confined prostate cancer (PCa) in clinically localized disease. <b><i>Materials</i></b> <b><i>and Methods:</i></b> From December 2007 to December 2011, 124 patients with clinically localized PCa were retrospectively evaluated. Non-organ confined disease in the surgical specimen was defined according to extra-capsular extension, seminal vesicle invasion, positive surgical margins, and lymph node invasion. The association between clinical factors and serum levels of pituitary-testis hormones with the risk of non-organ confined disease was evaluated. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Perioperative factors associated with non-organ confined disease include prostatic-specific antigen (OR 1.144; <i>p</i> = 0.025), proportion of biopsy positive cores (BPC, OR 36.702; <i>p</i> = 0.007), bioptical Gleason Score &#x3e; 6 (OR 2.785; <i>p</i> = 0.034), and PRL (OR 0.756, <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.0001). The association was strong for BPC (area under the curve [AUC] 0.704; <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.0001) and PRL (AUC 0.299; <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.0001). When we dichotomized according to median value, PRL ≤7.7 µg/L was an independent predictor of extraprostatic disease (OR 6.571; <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.0001) with fair discrimination power (AUC 0.704; <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.0001). <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Low preoperative PRL levels predict the risk of non-organ confined PCa in clinically localized disease.
Comparison of All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality of Persons with Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries to the General Swiss Population: Results from a National Cohort Study
Authors: Chamberlain Jonviea D. , Buzzell Anne , Gmünder Hans Peter , Hug Kerstin , Jordan Xavier , Moser André , Schubert Martin , Zwahlen Marcel , Brinkhof Martin W.G. ,   the SwiSCI Study Group and the Swiss National Cohort
Published: February 2019

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) are a neurological condition associated with reduced well-being, increased morbidity and reductions in life expectancy. Estimates of all-cause and cause-specific mortality can aid in identifying targets for prevention and management of contributors for premature mortality. <b><i>Objectives:</i></b> To compare all-cause and cause-specific rates of mortality to that of the Swiss general population; to identify differentials in risk of cause-specific mortality according to lesion characteristics. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> All-cause and cause-specific standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated using data from the Swiss Spinal Cord Injury cohort study. Cause-specific subhazard ratios were estimated within a competing risk framework using flexible parametric survival models. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Between 1990 and 2011, 2,492 persons sustained a TSCI, of which 379 died. Persons with TSCI had a mortality rate more than 2 times higher than that of the Swiss general population (SMR 2.32; 95% CI 2.10–2.56). Tetraplegic lesions were associated with an increased risk of mortality due to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, infections, and accidents. Cause-specific SMRs were notably elevated for SCI-related conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and septicemia. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> Elevated SMRs due to cardiovascular disease, UTIs and septicemia-related mortality suggest the need for innovation when managing associated secondary health conditions.
Associations of High Intensities on Magnetization-Prepared Rapid Acquisition with Gradient Echo with Aortic Complicated Lesions in Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Yamaguchi Yoshitaka , Tanaka Tomotaka , Morita Yoshiaki , Yoshimura Sohei , Koga Masatoshi , Ihara Masafumi , Toyoda Kazunori 
Published: February 2019

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Aortic complicated lesions (ACLs) are key parameters for evaluating aortic embolic sources in embolic stroke, and are usually diagnosed using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). However, alternative methods for diagnosing ACLs have not been well established. We investigated associations between high-intensity areas on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) with magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition with gradient echo (MPRAGE) and ACLs on TEE among ischemic stroke patients. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Participants comprised 135 patients (mean age, 71 years; 35 women) with ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack who underwent TEE for evaluation of embolic sources and plaque imaging using MPRAGE for evaluation of aortic or carotid plaques. Aortic plaque with signal intensity ≥200% of sternocleidomastoid intensity on MPRAGE was categorized as “high intensity”. ACLs on TEE were defined by focal increases in intima-media thickness (IMT) ≥4.0 mm or the presence of ulcerated or mobile plaques. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Fifty-six patients (42%) showed high-intensity areas on MPRAGE at the aortic arch. Aortic maximum IMT was significantly higher in patients with high intensities than in those without (<i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001). Incidences of ACLs (66 vs. 20%, <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001) or ulcerated or mobile plaques (30 vs. 6%, <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001) were significantly higher in patients with high intensities than in patients without. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that high intensities on MPRAGE were independently associated with the presence of ACLs (OR 5.72; 95% CI 2.38–13.70) and ulcerated or mobile plaques (OR 4.18; 95% CI 1.29–13.50). <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> High intensities on T1WI with MPRAGE in the aortic arch were significantly associated with the presence of ACLs. An evaluation of the aortic arch using MPRAGE may be useful for predicting ACLs.