bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bone marrow biopsies performed by both the powered OnControl drill device and the Jamshidi needle produce adequate specimens
Authors: Jain Sarika , Enzerra Mark , Mehta Rohtesh S , Smith Roy , Djokic Miroslav 
Published: January 2017

ObjectiveThe aim of our study was to evaluate the adequacy and quality of the bone marrow (BM) obtained by OnControl powered drill (P-group) and to compare it with manual procedure (M-group).DesignRetrospective analysis was done on 75 BM specimens; Jamshidi needle (n=44) and OnControl (n=31). Biopsy length after fixation, evaluable marrow length and total area, and fragmentation, aspiration and marrow dropout artefacts were compared.ResultsBiopsies were sufficient for diagnosis in 38/44 cases (86%) in the M-group and in 26/31 cases (83%) in the P-group. The most common reason for suboptimal/inadequate biopsies was subcortical specimens (4/6) in the M-group and aspiration artefact (5/5) in the P-group. Average length after fixation, evaluable marrow length, evaluable marrow area was comparable. Aspiration artefact was minimal (<10%) in the majority of BM samples in the M-group (31/44), while 25/31 BM in the P-group showed >10% aspiration artefact, p<0.0001.ConclusionsOur study suggests that quality of biopsy cylinder and adequacy rate of the biopsy is comparable between both devices. OnControl device showed more aspiration artefact.
Income and functional limitations among the aged in Europe: a trend analysis in 16 countries
Authors: von dem Knesebeck Olaf , Vonneilich Nico , Lüdecke Daniel 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundAnalyses are focused on 3 research questions: (1) Are there absolute and relative income-related inequalities in functional limitations among the aged in Europe? (2) Did the absolute and relative income-related inequalities in functional limitations among the aged change between 2002 and 2014? (3) Are there differences in the changes of income-related inequalities between European countries?MethodsData stem from 7 waves (2002–2014) of the European Social Survey. Samples of people aged 60 years or older from 16 European countries were analysed (N=63 024). Inequalities were measured by means of absolute prevalence rate differences and relative prevalence rate ratios of low versus high income. Meta-analyses with random-effect models were used to study the trends of inequalities in functional limitations over time.ResultsFunctional limitations among people aged 60 years or older declined between 2002 and 2014 in most of the 16 European countries. Older people with a low income had higher rates of functional limitations and elevated rate ratios compared with people with high income. These inequalities were significant in many countries and were more pronounced among men than among women. Overall, absolute and relative income-related inequalities increased between 2002 and 2014, especially in Ireland, the Netherlands and Sweden.ConclusionsHigh-income groups are more in favour of the observed overall decline in functional limitations than deprived groups. Results point to potential income-related inequalities in compression of morbidity in the recent past in Europe.
Radon as a carcinogenic built-environmental pollutant
Authors: Gillmore Gavin K. , Crockett Robin G. M. , Phillips Paul S. 
Published: January 2017

Abstract

Radon (
222
Rn) has been highlighted by a number of authors as a significant public health concern. For example, it is the second most significant cause of lung cancer after tobacco smoking (
c.
1000–2000 and 21 000 deaths per year in the UK and USA, respectively), yet a very high proportion of the general public appears to be unaware of the risk. This chapter deals with topical radon issues, such as: radon in the workplace; radon in homes; exposure to radon during leisure activities; radon and water; measurement and monitoring; seasonal correction; remediation; cancer risks; cost–benefit analysis and cost-effectiveness; mapping; future policies; and further research. This assessment of the state of radon research is focused on the UK as an example of a country where radon has been on the governmental agenda since the late 1970s, but also highlights radon issues throughout the world in, for example, the USA, Europe and Asia.
Longitudinal Study of Mammographic Density Measures That Predict Breast Cancer Risk
Authors: Krishnan Kavitha , Baglietto Laura , Stone Jennifer , Simpson Julie A. , Severi Gianluca , Evans Christopher F. , MacInnis Robert J. , Giles Graham G. , Apicella Carmel , Hopper John L. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractBackground: After adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI), mammographic measures—dense area (DA), percent dense area (PDA), and nondense area (NDA)—are associated with breast cancer risk. Our aim was to use longitudinal data to estimate the extent to which these risk-predicting measures track over time.Methods: We collected 4,320 mammograms (age range, 24–83 years) from 970 women in the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study and the Australian Breast Cancer Family Registry. Women had on average 4.5 mammograms (range, 1–14). DA, PDA, and NDA were measured using the Cumulus software and normalized using the Box–Cox method. Correlations in the normalized risk-predicting measures over time intervals of different lengths were estimated using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling of Gompertz curves.Results: Mean normalized DA and PDA were constant with age to the early 40s, decreased over the next two decades, and were almost constant from the mid-60s onward. Mean normalized NDA increased nonlinearly with age. After adjusting for age and BMI, the within-woman correlation estimates for normalized DA were 0.94, 0.93, 0.91, 0.91, and 0.91 for mammograms taken 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 years apart, respectively. Similar correlations were estimated for the age- and BMI-adjusted normalized PDA and NDA.Conclusions: The mammographic measures that predict breast cancer risk are highly correlated over time.Impact: This has implications for etiologic research and clinical management whereby women at increased risk could be identified at a young age (e.g., early 40s or even younger) and recommended appropriate screening and prevention strategies. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(4); 651–60. ©2017 AACR.
The Association between Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Keizman Daniel , Yang Yu-Xiao , Gottfried Maya , Dresler Hadas , Leibovitch Ilan , Haynes Kevin , Mamtani Ronac , Boursi Ben 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Background: Overexpression of VEGF is implicated in the pathogenesis of both renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We evaluated the association between AMD and RCC risk.
Methods: We conducted a matched case–control study within a population-representative database from the United Kingdom. Study cases were defined as individuals with any diagnostic code of RCC. For every case, four eligible controls were matched on age, sex, practice site, calendar time, and duration of follow-up. Exposure of interest was diagnosis of AMD prior to cancer diagnosis. Adjusted ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for RCC were estimated using conditional logistic regression. In a secondary analysis, we evaluated the association between other retinopathies and RCC and AMD and the hypovascular pancreatic cancer.
Results: The study population included 1,547 patients with RCC and 6,066 matched controls. Median follow-up time was 6 years (IQR, 3–9). AMD diagnosis was associated with a significantly increased RCC risk (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.09–3.29). In contrast, there was no association between other retinopathies and RCC risk (OR, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.56–1.15). AMD was associated with a lower risk for pancreatic cancer (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.35–0.64).
Conclusions: Patients with AMD may be at higher risk for RCC. Providers should be aware of this potential link and consider screening for RCC within this population.
Impact: Providers should be aware of the potential link between AMD and RCC. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(5); 743–7. ©2017 AACR.
Effects of Coping Skills Training on Quality of Life, Disease Biomarkers, and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Sherwood Andrew , Blumenthal James A. , Koch Gary G. , Hoffman Benson M. , Watkins Lana L. , Smith Patrick J. , O’Connor Christopher M. , Adams Kirkwood F. , Rogers Joseph G. , Sueta Carla , Chang Patricia P. , Johnson Kristy S. , Schwartz Jeanne , Hinderliter Alan L. 
Published: January 2017

Background—
Heart failure (HF) is a chronic disease that compromises patients’ quality of life (QoL). Interventions designed to reduce distress and improve disease self-management are needed. We evaluated the efficacy of a telephone-based coping skills training (CST) intervention.

Methods and Results—

This randomized clinical trial involved 180 HF outpatients with reduced ejection fraction. Participants ranged in age from 29 to 87 years (mean=58 years); 27% were women, and 47% were nonwhite. Participants were randomized to either a CST intervention or heart failure education, both delivered over 16 weeks. The primary outcomes were (1) postintervention effects on QoL and HF disease biomarkers (both with α=0.01), and (2) a composite measure of time to death or first hospitalization (with α=0.03) over a median follow-up period of 3 years. CST resulted in greater improvements in QoL compared with heart failure education (
P
<0.01), including the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (
P
=0.009), depressive symptoms (
P
=0.027), and the 6-minute walk test (
P
=0.012). However, it did not differentially improve HF disease biomarkers or reduce risk of all-cause hospitalizations or death (hazard ratio=0.84 [95% confidence interval, 0.59–1.12]). Interestingly, exploratory analyses showed that participants randomized to CST experienced a reduction in the composite end point of worsening HF hospitalization or death during the 3-year follow-up period (hazard ratio=0.65 [95% confidence interval, 0.44–0.98];
P
=0.040).

Conclusions—
CST improved QoL in patients with HF. Monitoring and improving QoL is emerging as an important aspect of the clinical management of HF that can reduce disease burden and may help improve clinical outcomes in this vulnerable patient population.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00873418.
Loss of Macrophage Wnt Secretion Improves Remodeling and Function After Myocardial Infarction in Mice
Authors: Palevski Dahlia , Levin‐Kotler La‐Paz , Kain David , Naftali‐Shani Nili , Landa Natalie , Ben‐Mordechai Tammy , Konfino Tal , Holbova Radka , Molotski Natali , Rosin‐Arbesfeld Rina , Lang Richard A. , Leor Jonathan 
Published: January 2017

Background

Macrophages and Wnt proteins (Wnts) are independently involved in cardiac development, response to cardiac injury, and repair. However, the role of macrophage‐derived Wnts in the healing and repair of myocardial infarction (
MI
) is unknown. We sought to determine the role of macrophage Wnts in infarct repair.

Methods and Results

We show that the Wnt pathway is activated after
MI
in mice. Furthermore, we demonstrate that isolated infarct macrophages express distinct Wnt pathway components and are a source of noncanonical Wnts after
MI
. To determine the effect of macrophage Wnts on cardiac repair, we evaluated mice lacking the essential Wnt transporter
Wntless
(
Wls
) in myeloid cells. Significantly,
Wntless‐
deficient macrophages presented a unique subset of M2‐like macrophages with anti‐inflammatory, reparative, and angiogenic properties. Serial echocardiography studies revealed that mice lacking macrophage Wnt secretion showed improved function and less remodeling 30 days after
MI
. Finally, mice lacking macrophage‐
Wntless
had increased vascularization near the infarct site compared with controls.

Conclusions

Macrophage‐derived Wnts are implicated in adverse cardiac remodeling and dysfunction after
MI
. Together, macrophage Wnts could be a new therapeutic target to improve infarct healing and repair.
Incidence, Locations, and Longitudinal Course of Cerebral Microbleeds in European Moyamoya
Authors: Wenz Holger , Wenz Ralf , Maros Máté , Ehrlich Gregory , Al-Zghloul Mansour , Groden Christoph , Förster Alex 
Published: January 2017

Background and Purpose—
Cerebral microbleeds (cMBs) have previously been linked with especially high incidence in Asian patients with moyamoya together with high tendency to bleed. This, presumably, is characteristic of patients with moyamoya. Herein, we, therefore, investigate retrospectively the frequency, location, and longitudinal course of cMBs in a large German cohort.

Methods—
We included all patients with moyamoya who underwent standard magnetic resonance imaging, including T2*-weighted images, in our department between 1998 and 2015. Two independent readers evaluated magnetic resonance imaging scans to determine the occurrence of cMBs according to the Brain Observer Microbleed Scale. Demographics, initial symptoms leading to hospitalization, and associated diseases were obtained by chart review.

Results—
Overall, there was a total of 242 T2* studies of 101 included moyamoya patients available with a strong female predominance (69.3%). Eight patients (7.9%) were ≤18 years of age. We detected 25 cMBs within 13 patients (12.9%). One patient <18 of age was presented with a cMB; 2 of 3 patients with an intracranial hemorrhage as initial event demonstrated cMB(s). In 72 of 101 cases, there were 1719 person months of follow-up, with 3 adult patients showing 3 de novo cMBs in the course. The majority of cMBs (64.0%) were located at the cortex/gray–white junction.

Conclusions—
Although the frequency of cMBs herein is much higher than the expected age-specific incidence, it is still much lower compared with previous reports on cMBs in moyamoya patients of Asian descent. These results might reflect another ethnic-specific difference in patients diagnosed with moyamoya.
Analyzing the Area Under the Curve of Pharyngeal pH Probes in the Diagnosis of Reflux Disease
Authors: Jones Joel W. , Sykes Kevin J. , Pavelonis Anna , Pappu Hema , Nguyen Amy M. , Garnett James D. 
Published: January 2017

Objectives: To analyze the area under the curve (AUC) from 24-hour pharyngeal pH probes and evaluate this parameter as a predictor of disease severity for laryngopharyngeal reflux. Methods: Eighty patients met inclusion criteria of a completed 24-hour pharyngeal pH probe and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) questionnaire. The AUC was calculated below a pH threshold of 5.5 using the trapezoidal rule. The RSI and RYAN scores were correlated with AUC values, and nonparametric tests were used for comparisons. Results: The median AUC value was 18 007 pH-seconds with an interquartile range (IQR) of 63 156, the median RSI score was 21 (IQR = 16), and the median RYAN score was 15.3 (IQR = 78). There was a Spearman’s correlation of .36 between the RSI scores and AUC values ( P = .001) and a moderate correlation between AUC values and RYAN scores (0.58, P < .001). An insignificant correlation of .19 between RYAN scores and RSI scores was observed ( P = .09). Conclusions: The AUC may be a useful objective value in establishing the diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux. Prospective studies with larger patient populations are necessary to validate these findings and determine standardized thresholds for symptomatic patients.
Effects of Dual Monitor Computer Work Versus Laptop Work on Cervical Muscular and Proprioceptive Characteristics of Males and Females
Authors: Farias Zuniga Amanda M. , Côté Julie N. 
Published: January 2017

Objective: The effects of performing a 90-minute computer task with a laptop versus a dual monitor desktop workstation were investigated in healthy young male and female adults. Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are common among computer (especially female) users. Laptops have surpassed desktop computer sales, and working with multiple monitors has also become popular. However, few studies have provided objective evidence on how they affect the musculoskeletal system in both genders. Methods: Twenty-seven healthy participants (mean age = 24.6 years; 13 males) completed a 90-minute computer task while using a laptop or dual monitor (DualMon) desktop. Electromyography (EMG) from eight upper body muscles and visual strain were measured throughout the task. Neck proprioception was tested before and after the computer task using a head-repositioning test. EMG amplitude (root mean square [RMS]), variability (coefficients of variation [CV]), and normalized mutual information (NMI) were computed. Results: Visual strain ( p < .01) and right upper trapezius RMS ( p = .03) increased significantly over time regardless of workstation. Right cervical erector spinae RMS and cervical NMI were smaller, while degrees of overshoot (mean = 4.15°) and end position error (mean = 1.26°) were larger in DualMon regardless of time. Effects on muscle activity were more pronounced in males, whereas effects on proprioception were more pronounced in females. Conclusion: Results suggest that compared to laptop, DualMon work is effective in reducing cervical muscle activity, dissociating cervical connectivity, and maintaining more typical neck repositioning patterns, suggesting some health-protective effects. Application: This evidence could be considered when deciding on computer workstation designs.
India and the Soviet Union
Authors: Budhraj Vijay Sen 
Published: January 2017

At a Press conference held soon after assuming office as Prime Minister on 24 March 1977, Morarji R. Desai said that his Government would follow a policy of “proper non-alignment”. He also said that his Government would not wish to have any “special” relations with any one country. Obviously he had the Soviet Union in mind when he made this observation; for it is often asserted that the 20-year Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Co-operation between India and the Soviet Union signed in August 1971 had established “special” relations between the two countries. Commenting on this treaty, the new Prime Minister said that if it meant that India should not have friendship with other countries, then it would have to change. “At least we will not act upon it in that manner.”1 Again, four days later, addressing the first joint session of the sixth Parliament, the Acting President stated that the new Government would “follow a path of genuine non-alignment”. This article is an attempt to explain what led to the establishment of “special” relations, why there were hints about a change in these relations when those whom Indira Gandhi had jailed replaced her in office in March 1977, and what actually happened thereafter. It is also an attempt to explain why the Janata Government continued the policy of friendship with the Soviet Union and to assess the elements of continuity and change in Indo-Soviet relations.
Integrating Occupational Health with Mainstream Public Health in Massachusetts: An Approach to Intervention
Authors: Davis Letitia , Souza Kerry 
Published: January 2017

In the late 19th century, workers' health was among the central concerns of the social reform movement to improve public health. Today, few state health agencies have comprehensive occupational health programs. Yet, state public health agencies have critical roles to play in occupational health and may be particularly instrumental in addressing the occupational health needs of underserved worker populations. Since the mid-1980s, with support from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has been working to build an occupational health program and promote the integration of occupational health concerns with ongoing public health activities in the state. This article provides a framework for considering the range of integration activities and presents examples of successful occupational health integration efforts in Massachusetts.
Reducing Hazardous Cleaning Product Use: A Collaborative Effort
Authors: Pechter Elise , Azaroff Lenore S. , López Isabel , Goldstein-Gelb Marcy 
Published: January 2017

Workplace hazards affecting vulnerable populations of low-wage and immigrant workers present a special challenge to the practice of occupational health. Unions, Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health (COSH) groups, and other organizations have developed worker-led approaches to promoting safety. Public health practitioners can provide support for these efforts. This article describes a successful multiyear project led by immigrant cleaning workers with their union, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 615, and with support from the Massachusetts COSH (MassCOSH) to address exposure to hazardous chemicals. After the union had identified key issues and built a strategy, the union and MassCOSH invited staff from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Occupational Health Surveillance Program (OHSP) to provide technical information about health effects and preventive measures. Results included eliminating the most hazardous chemicals, reducing the number of products used, banning mixing products, and improving safety training. OHSP's history of public health practice regarding cleaning products enabled staff to respond promptly. MassCOSH's staff expertise and commitment to immigrant workers allowed it to play a vital role.
Application of the Industrial Hygiene Hierarchy of Controls to Prioritize and Promote Safer Methods of Pest Control: A Case Study
Authors: Weinberg Justine Lew , Bunin Lisa J. , Das Rupali 
Published: January 2017

In 2005, the California Department of Public Health, Occupational Health Branch (OHB) investigated an incident of pesticide exposure and identified 27 vineyard workers who became ill due to drift of cyfluthrin, a pesticide being applied to a neighboring orange field to control katydids. Another pest, citrus thrips, was also present in the field. We investigated safer alternatives for katydid and thrips control to prevent illness due to pesticide exposure and used the industrial hygiene hierarchy of controls to prioritize the control methods. OHB evaluated factors that contributed to pesticide exposure and identified safer alternatives by conducting literature reviews on katydid and thrips control, drift prevention technology, and other relevant topics, and by interviewing integrated pest management advisors, conventional and organic growers, equipment manufacturers, county agricultural commissioners, pest control advisors, regulatory agencies, and others. We prioritized methods using the industrial hygiene hierarchy of controls. We identified safer pest control practices that incorporated hazard elimination, chemical substitution, engineering controls, and administrative controls, including employer policies and government regulations.