bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of CXCL12 Levels in Synovial Fluid with the Radiographic Severity of Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Xu Qin , Sun Xue-cheng , Shang Xiao-peng , Jiang Hou-sen 
Published: May 2016

Objective Inflammation is implicated to be involved in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). CXCL12, also known as stromal cell-derived factor, is the unique identified natural ligand of the G-protein-coupled receptor CXCR4 and exhibits both homeostatic and proinflammatory functions. This study aims to determine whether CXCL12 levels in serum and synovial fluid (SF) of patients with knee OA are correlated with the disease severity. Methods This study consisted of 252 patients with knee OA and 144 healthy controls. The radiological grading of OA in the knee was performed according to the Kellgren-Lawrence grading system. CXCL12 levels in serum and SF were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Higher levels of serum CXCL12 were found in knee OA patients compared with healthy controls. The CXCL12 levels in SF of knee OA patients with KL grade 4 were significantly elevated compared with those with KL grades 2 and 3. Furthermore, knee OA patients with KL grade 3 had significantly higher SF levels of CXCL12 compared with those with KL grade 2. CXCL12 levels in SF of knee OA patients were significantly correlated with disease severity evaluated by KL grading criteria. However, there were no significant differences in the serum CXCL12 levels between patients with different KL grades. Conclusion CXCL12 levels in SF were closely related to the radiographic severity of OA. CXCL12 levels in SF may be an alternative biomarker for the progression of OA.
Fasting Glucose, Obesity, and Metabolic Syndrome as Predictors of Type 2 Diabetes: The Cooper Center Longitudinal Study
Authors: DeFina Laura F. , Vega Gloria Lena , Leonard David , Grundy Scott M. 
Published: May 2016

Background To determine risk for type 2 diabetes in subjects with fasting glucose levels in the ranges of normoglycemia, mild hyperglycemia, and intermediate hyperglycemia and to assess the effect of obesity and metabolic syndrome on this risk. Subjects and Methods Incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus was evaluated in 28,209 relatively healthy subjects participating in the Cooper Center Longitudinal Study. They were included in the study if they had more than 1 fasting plasma glucose measurement, anthropometry, and other parameters of interest. Three subgroups were identified: normoglycemic (<5.6 mmol/L), mild hyperglycemia (5.6–6.0 mmol/L), and intermediate hyperglycemia (6.1–7.0 mmol/L). Diabetes incidence was calculated in categories of sex, age, obesity, and metabolic syndrome status. Incident diabetes was assessed at the earliest clinic visit at which the individual exhibited a blood glucose level of more than 7.0 mmol/L or reported a diagnosis of diabetes. Results Thirty-one percent of men and 15.9% of women had mild hyperglycemia and 11.9% of men and 3.6% of women had intermediate hyperglycemia. Yearly conversion rates to diabetes were low in individuals with normoglycemia and mild hyperglycemia but were strikingly higher in those with intermediate hyperglycemia. In subjects with intermediate hyperglycemia, presence of obesity and/or metabolic syndrome doubled conversion rates to diabetes. Conclusions This study showed a marked difference in outcomes in subjects with mild and intermediate hyperglycemia. Moreover, obesity and metabolic syndrome were associated with strikingly elevated risk for diabetes in subjects with intermediate hyperglycemia. Thus intermediate hyperglycemia plus obesity/metabolic syndrome seemingly justifies intensive clinical intervention for prevention of both diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The Association between Fracture Rates and Neighborhood Characteristics in Washington, DC, Children
Authors: Ryan Leticia Manning , Guagliardo Mark , Teach Stephen J. , Wang Jichuan , Marsh Jennifer E. , Singer Steven A. , Wright Joseph L. , Chamberlain James M. 
Published: May 2016

Background Effects of neighborhood contextual features have been found for many diseases, including bone fractures in adults. Our study objective was to evaluate the association between neighborhood characteristics and pediatric bone fracture rates. We hypothesized that neighborhood indices of deprivation would be associated with higher fracture rates. Materials and Methods Pediatric bone fracture cases treated at a tertiary, academic, urban pediatric emergency department between 2003 and 2006 were mapped to census block groups using geographical information systems software. Fracture rates were calculated as fractures per 1000 children in each census block. Exploratory factor analysis of socioeconomic indicators was performed using 2000 census block data. Factor scores were used to predict odds of bone fracture at the individual level while adjusting for mean age, sex composition, and race/ethnicity composition at census block level using our sample data. Results We analyzed 3764 fracture visits in 3557 patients representing 349 distinct census blocks groups. Fracture rates among census blocks ranged from 0 to 207 per 1000 children/study period. Logistic regression modeling identified 2 factors (race/education and large families) associated with increased fracture risk. Census variables reflecting African American race, laborer/service industry employment, long-term block group residence, and lower education levels strongly loaded on the race/education factor. The large families factor indicated the children-to-families ratio within the block group. The poverty factor was not independently associated with fracture risk. Conclusions Thus, neighborhood characteristics are associated with risk for fractures in children. These results can help inform translational efforts to develop targeted strategies for bone fracture prevention in children.
Usefulness of Hemoglobin A1c as a Criterion to Define Metabolic Syndrome in Nondiabetic Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Li Ping , Jiang Ranhua , Li Ling , Li Xue , Liu Cong , Xu Wanfeng , Xu Duo 
Published: May 2016

Aims To examine whether hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) can be used instead of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) to identify nondiabetic Chinese adolescents with metabolic syndrome (MS). Methods This was a cross-sectional study involving 910 adolescents (11–16 years; 46.8% girls) with an HbA1c less than or equal to 6.4% and an FPG less than or equal to 6.9 mmol/L. All participants underwent anthropometric and biochemical examinations. Metabolic syndrome was defined using the definition proposed by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the American Heart Association (AHA). Replacement of an FPG greater than or equal to 5.6 mmol/L with an HbA1c greater than or equal to 5.7% yielded 2 HbA1c definitions (IDF-HbA1c and AHA-HbA1c). The use of an HbA1c greater than or equal to 5.7% or an FPG greater than or equal to 5.6 mmol/L in the definition of the glycemic component of the MS was compared. Results The HbA1c definition resulted in an increase in the population prevalence of MS by 2.4% (IDF-HbA1c) and 2.5% (AHA-HbA1c), respectively ( P ≥ 0.05). The degree of concordance (κ index) was as high as 0.900 for the concordance between the IDF and IDF-HbA1c definition, and 0.811 between the AHA and AHA-HbA1c definition. Subjects who were diagnosed as normal based on the FPG definition and met the HbA1c definition for MS had more cardiometabolic risk factors (waist circumference, blood pressure, lipid profiles, uric acid, and homeostasis assessment model of insulin resistance; all P < 0.05), indicating that the HbA1c definition identified more subjects with cardiovascular disease–related risk factors. HbA1c greater than or equal to 5.7% was significantly associated with the presence of MS [adjusted odds ratio, 2.61 (1.13–6.01)]. Conclusions An HbA1c greater than or equal to 5.7% was associated with the presence of MS and can be considered a surrogate for FPG in the diagnosis of MS in nondiabetic Chinese adolescents.
Telomere Length and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Marathon Runners
Authors: Mathur Shishir , Ardestani Afrooz , Parker Beth , Cappizzi Jeffery , Polk Donna , Thompson Paul D. 
Published: May 2016

Background and Aim Physical exercise up-regulates telomere-stabilizing proteins in mice, suggesting that physical activity affects telomere length. Several human studies assessing the relationship between physical activity, measured by health or activity surveys, and telomere length have produced conflicting results. The present study sought to explore the association between telomere length and physical fitness measured objectively as maximal oxygen uptake in endurance-trained athletes and sedentary controls. Methods Seventeen marathon runners and 15 age- and sex-matched healthy, sedentary control subjects participated in the study. Medical history, demographic information, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max), and peripheral blood lymphocyte telomere length were measured in all subjects. Statistical analysis was performed to examine the relationship between telomere length and measured variables. Results Athletes and sedentary controls had similar lymphocyte (0.97 ± 0.20 vs 1.01 ± 0.18; P = 0.6) and granulocyte (0.89 ± 0.11 vs 0.89 ± 0.12; P = 0.9) telomere lengths. Linear regression analysis showed age as the only variable significantly associated with telomere length ( P = 0.007). There was no correlation between VO2 max and telomere length. Conclusion In a cohort of healthy adult athletes and sedentary controls, there was no association between physical activity measured by VO2 max and peripheral blood lymphocyte and granulocyte telomere length.
Patient Satisfaction with Warfarin- and Non–Warfarin-Containing Thromboprophylaxis Regimens for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Coleman Craig I. , Coleman Stacey M. , Vanderpoel Julie , Nelson Winnie , Colby Jennifer A. , Scholle Jennifer M. , Kluger Jeffrey 
Published: May 2016

Objective To compare patient-reported limitations, concerns, and burdens in those receiving and not receiving warfarin for thromboprophylaxis in atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey study of patients with AF receiving thromboprophylaxis for stroke prevention. Patients were administered the validated Anti-Clot Treatment Scale (ACTS). Mean scores of patients receiving and not receiving warfarin were compared for each ACTS item, and for the Burden and Benefit subscales. Results From July 2010 to August 2011, 80 patients with AF were administered the survey, with 65 patients receiving a regimen containing warfarin and 15 patients not receiving a regimen containing warfarin. Six of the 17 individual questions depicting patient- perceived limitations in physical activity due to bleeding, limitations on diet, feelings of inconvenience of occasional aspects of thromboprophylaxis therapy, and frustration, and burden had less favorable scores in the warfarin-managed patients compared with the patients not receiving warfarin ( P < 0.05 for all). Mean ACTS Burden scores were more favorable in the no-warfarin group (44.5 ± 6.4) compared with the warfarin group (39.8 ± 8.0; P = 0.003). No difference was seen between the 2 groups on the ACTS Benefits score (11.1 ± 3.4 vs 10.4 ± 3.7; P = 0.38). Conclusion Patients with AF receiving warfarin may have less favorable feelings regarding thromboprophylaxis versus those receiving non-warfarin thromboprophylaxis. Patients report having more limitations and having greater feelings of burden on warfarin.
Carotid Proliferative Plaque Formation in a Canine Model of Chronic Hypertension
Authors: Tian Zuojun , Shen Yuechun , Liao Haixing , Yang Tong , Wang Xiaoming , Han Xiujing , Dong Yaxian , You Tianhui 
Published: May 2016

Background There are few reports describing arterial plaque formation induced by hypertension alone. The aim of this study was to establish a canine model of chronic hypertension and investigate carotid plaque development. Methods Ten beagles were studied; 5 underwent bilateral renal artery constriction via a novel vascular clip, and 5 sham-operated animals served as controls. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), lipid values, the intima-media thickness, and the carotid artery plaque score were investigated during 1 year after placement of the clips. Results The mean SBP and DBP over time were significantly greater in the constriction group ( P < 0.001 for SBP, P < 0.01 for DBP). There were no significant differences in blood lipid levels or other biochemical parameters. Carotid plaques were demonstrated at 4 months postoperation in the constriction group; and in the constriction group, intima-media thickness became significantly greater at 4 months ( P < 0.05), and plaque scores became significantly higher at 8 months ( P = 0.034) after clip placement. Carotid stenosis was proved by digital subtraction angiography 1 year after clip placement, and histological examination revealed that the plaques were mainly comprised of smooth muscle cells, proteoglycans, and collagen fibers, but few macrophages and little lipid. Conclusions Carotid proliferative plaques were developed in a canine model of chronic hypertension induced by a novel vascular clip. The plaques were mainly comprised of smooth muscle cells, proteoglycans, and collagen fibers.
Randomized Summer Camp Crossover Trial in 5- to 9-Year-Old Children: Outpatient Wearable Artificial Pancreas Is Feasible and Safe
Authors: Del Favero Simone , Boscari Federico , Messori Mirko , Rabbone Ivana , Bonfanti Riccardo , Sabbion Alberto , Iafusco Dario , Schiaffini Riccardo , Visentin Roberto , Calore Roberta , Moncada Yenny Leal , Galasso Silvia , Galderisi Alfonso , Vallone Valeria , Di Palma Federico , Losiouk Eleonora , Lanzola Giordano , Tinti Davide , Rigamonti Andrea , Marigliano Marco , Zanfardino Angela , Rapini Novella , Avogaro Angelo , Chernavvsky Daniel , Magni Lalo , Cobelli Claudio , Bruttomesso Daniela 
Published: May 2016

OBJECTIVE
The Pediatric Artificial Pancreas (PedArPan) project tested a children-specific version of the modular model predictive control (MMPC) algorithm in 5- to 9-year-old children during a camp.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
A total of 30 children, 5- to 9-years old, with type 1 diabetes completed an outpatient, open-label, randomized, crossover trial. Three days with an artificial pancreas (AP) were compared with three days of parent-managed sensor-augmented pump (SAP).

RESULTS
Overnight time-in-hypoglycemia was reduced with the AP versus SAP, median (25th–75th percentiles): 0.0% (0.0–2.2) vs. 2.2% (0.0–12.3) (P = 0.002), without a significant change of time-in-target, mean: 56.0% (SD 22.5) vs. 59.7% (21.2) (P = 0.430), but with increased mean glucose 173 mg/dL (36) vs. 150 mg/dL (39) (P = 0.002). Overall, the AP granted a threefold reduction of time-in-hypoglycemia (P &lt; 0.001) at the cost of decreased time-in-target, 56.8% (13.5) vs. 63.1% (11.0) (P = 0.022) and increased mean glucose 169 mg/dL (23) vs. 147 mg/dL (23) (P &lt; 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS
This trial, the first outpatient single-hormone AP trial in a population of this age, shows feasibility and safety of MMPC in young children. Algorithm retuning will be performed to improve efficacy.
“Would they not wish the feast might ever last?”: Strong Spice, Oral History and the Genesis of Globe to Globe
Authors: Quarmby Kevin A. 
Published: May 2016

AbstractThe 2012 Globe to Globe Festival proved a great success. Actors, directors, musicians, dancers, designers and technicians travelled from all over the world to perform on the Globe stage. Visitors to London’s Cultural Olympiad enjoyed six jam-packed weeks of Shakespeare, presented in an array of international languages. The Globe’s Artistic Director, Dominic Dromgoole, and his Festival Director, Tom Bird, had achieved what seemed, to many, the impossible. Nonetheless, filmed interviews with Dromgoole and Bird, conducted during the festival by the American documentary-maker Steve Rowland, offer tantalizing insights into the genesis of the festival venture. These candid interviews confirm the sometimes farcical, often exhausting, but invariably serendipitous truth behind the Globe to Globe Festival’s short, intense history. Although the Globe was “flying completely blind,” it still succeeded in hosting a glorious feast of Shakespearean delights, seasoned with the strong spice of multiculturality.
Thermal and mechanical properties of single-walled and multi-walled carbon nanotube polycarbonate polyurethane composites with a focus on self-healing
Authors: Bass Roger W. , Julien Tamalia C. M. , Rigolo Alyssa , Hong Seongmin , Li Xiao , Harmon Julie P. 
Published: May 2016

AbstractSingle walled and multi walled carbon nanotubes were incorporated into a high molar mass polycarbonate polyurethane via ultrasonication. The polycarbonate polyurethane which is free of any healing additives has the capacity to partially re-heal after rupture. The formation of the polyurethane/carbon nanotube composites has been shown to greatly improve the self-healing characteristics. Moreover, there is an increase in the thermal and mechanical properties of the thermoplastic composites. Herein we investigate the thermal and mechanical properties of the elastomeric material with a focus of the interface of the carbon nanotubes. Additionally, the self-healing polymer is probed using Raman techniques in order to provide an insight into how the self-healing actions are improved upon addition of carbon nanotubes.
Evaluating the role of genome downsizing and size thresholds from genome size distributions in angiosperms
Authors: Zenil‐Ferguson Rosana , Ponciano José M. , Burleigh J. Gordon 
Published: May 2016

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:Whole‐genome duplications (WGDs) can rapidly increase genome size in angiosperms. Yet their mean genome size is not correlated with ploidy. We compared three hypotheses to explain the constancy of genome size means across ploidies. The genome downsizing hypothesis suggests that genome size will decrease by a given percentage after a WGD. The genome size threshold hypothesis assumes that taxa with large genomes or large monoploid numbers will fail to undergo or survive WGDs. Finally, the genome downsizing and threshold hypothesis suggests that both genome downsizing and thresholds affect the relationship between genome size means and ploidy.METHODS:We performed nonparametric bootstrap simulations to compare observed angiosperm genome size means among species or genera against simulated genome sizes under the three different hypotheses. We evaluated the hypotheses using a decision theory approach and estimated the expected percentage of genome downsizing.KEY RESULTS:The threshold hypothesis improves the approximations between mean genome size and simulated genome size. At the species level, the genome downsizing with thresholds hypothesis best explains the genome size means with a 15% genome downsizing percentage. In the genus level simulations, the monoploid number threshold hypothesis best explains the data.CONCLUSIONS:Thresholds of genome size and monoploid number added to genome downsizing at species level simulations explain the observed means of angiosperm genome sizes, and monoploid number is important for determining the genome size mean at the genus level.
A case series of flow-through free anterolateral thigh flap to augment the vascularity of ischaemic limbs with soft tissue defect
Authors: Aggarwal Aditya , Singh Hardeep , Mahendru Sanjay , Brajesh Vimalendu , Singh Sukhdeep , Krishnan Srinivasan , Khazanchi Rakesh Kumar 
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT
Introduction: In a world of fast moving vehicles, heavy machinery and industries crush injury to limbs with vascular compromise and soft tissue defect is common. The traditional treatment is a 2 step one dealing with vascular repair and soft tissue cover separately, in the same operation. We report a series of single step vascular repair and soft tissue cover with flow through anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) flap for limb salvage. Materials and Methods: Ten patients with soft tissue defect and vascular injury were included in this study. A two team approach was used to minimise operative time, team one prepared the vessels and team 2 harvested the flap. Observations and Results: Of the ten patients operated (8 males), eight flaps were done for upper limb and two for lower limb salvage. Six anastomosis were done with ulnar vessels, two with radial and two with posterior tibial vessels. Nine extremities could be salvaged while one patient developed progressive thrombosis leading to amputation. Conclusion: The ALT flow-through flap is a versatile single step procedure that can be used to salvage an ischemic limb with soft tissue loss avoiding the need for interpositional vein graft.
Considerations for double-hand replantation in a resource-constrained healthcare facility
Authors: Nayak Bibhuti Bhusan , Mohanty Nilamani , Patnaik Annada Prasad , Bal Prasanta Kumar 
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACTBilateral-hand amputation is extremely rare and double-hand replantation is even rarer. Only one case of successful double replantation at arm level has been reported from India. We present a case of double-hand replantation at proximal palmar level in a young adult executed in a small nursing home. The patient presented 5 h after injury with limbs preserved well in ice. There were difficulties in executing such an unusual case in a small nursing home set-up. The patient is performing his activities of daily living and basic functions independently. We share our experience of this double-hand replantation with special emphasis on problems encountered.
An audit cycle of consent form completion: A useful tool to improve junior doctor training
Authors: Leng Catherine , Sharma Kavita 
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT
Background: Consent for surgical procedures is an essential part of the patient's pathway. Junior doctors are often expected to do this, especially in the emergency setting. As a result, the aim of our audit was to assess our practice in consenting and institute changes within our department to maintain best medical practice. Methods: An audit of consent form completion was conducted in March 2013. Standards were taken from Good Surgical Practice (2008) and General Medical Council guidelines. Inclusion of consent teaching at a formal consultant delivered orientation programme was then instituted. A re-audit was completed to reassess compliance. Results: Thirty-seven consent forms were analysed. The re-audit demonstrated an improvement in documentation of benefits (91–100%) and additional procedures (0–7.5%). Additional areas for improvement such as offering a copy of the consent form to the patient and confirmation of consent if a delay occurred between consenting and the procedure were identified. Conclusion: The re-audit demonstrated an improvement in the consent process. It also identified new areas of emphasis that were addressed in formal teaching sessions. The audit cycle can be a useful tool in monitoring, assessing and improving clinical practice to ensure the provision of best patient care.