bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest attended by ambulance services in Ireland: first 2 years’ results from a nationwide registry
Authors: Masterson Siobhán , Cullinan John , McNally Bryan , Deasy Conor , Murphy Andrew , Wright Peter , O'Reilly Martin , Vellinga Akke 
Published: August 2016

BackgroundNational data collection provides information on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) incidence, management and outcomes that may not be generalisable from smaller studies. This retrospective cohort study describes the first 2 years' results from the Irish National Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Register (OHCAR).MethodsData on OHCAs attended by emergency medical services (EMS) where resuscitation was attempted (EMS-treated) were collected from ambulance services and entered onto OHCAR. Descriptive analysis of the study population was performed, and regression analysis was performed on the subgroup of adult patients with a bystander-witnessed event of presumed cardiac aetiology and an initial shockable rhythm (Utstein group).Results3701 EMS-treated OHCAs were recorded for the study period (1 January 2012–31 December 2013). Incidence was 39/100 000 population/year. In the Utstein group (n=577), compared with the overall group, there was a higher proportion of male patients, public event location, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and early defibrillation. Median EMS call–response interval was similar in both groups. A higher proportion of patients in the Utstein group achieved return of spontaneous circulation (35% vs 17%) and survival to hospital discharge (22% vs 6%). After multivariate adjustment for the Utstein group, the following variables were found to be independent predictors of the outcome survival to hospital discharge: public event location (OR 3.1 (95% CI 1.9 to 5.0)); bystander CPR (2.4 (95% CI 1.2 to 4.9)); EMS response of 8 min or less (2.2 (95% CI 1.3 to 3.6)).ConclusionsThis study highlights the role of nationwide registries in quantifying, monitoring and benchmarking OHCA incidence and outcome, providing baseline data upon which service improvement effects can be measured.
Wedelolactone, an Anti-inflammatory Botanical, Interrupts c-Myc Oncogenic Signaling and Synergizes with Enzalutamide to Induce Apoptosis in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Sarveswaran Sivalokanathan , Ghosh Ritisha , Parikh Rujul , Ghosh Jagadananda 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
The c-Myc gene encodes an oncoprotein transcription factor that is frequently upregulated in almost all cancer types and is the subject of intense investigation for management of cancer because of its pleiotropic effects controlling a spectrum of cellular functions. However, due of its nonenzymatic nature, development of suitable strategies to block its protein–protein or protein–DNA interaction is challenging. Thus, c-Myc has been recognized as an elusive molecular target for cancer control, and various approaches are in development to inhibit c-Myc transcriptional activity. We observed that wedelolactone (WDL), an anti-inflammatory botanical compound, severely downregulates the expression of c-Myc mRNA in prostate cancer cells. Moreover, WDL dramatically decreases the protein level, nuclear accumulation, DNA-binding, and transcriptional activities of c-Myc. c-Myc is a transforming oncogene widely expressed in prostate cancer cells and is critical for maintaining their transformed phenotype. Interestingly, WDL was found to strongly affect the viability of Myc-activated prostate cancer cells and completely block their invasion as well as soft agar colony formation in vitro. WDL was also found to downregulate c-Myc in vivo in nude mice xenografts. Moreover, WDL synergizes with enzalutamide to decrease the viability of androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cells via induction of apoptosis. These findings reveal a novel anticancer mechanism of the natural compound WDL, and suggest that the oncogenic function of c-Myc in prostate cancer cells can be effectively downregulated by WDL for the development of a new therapeutic strategy against Myc-driven prostate cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(11); 2791–801. ©2016 AACR.
Peptidomimetic Targeting of Ca
v
β2 Overcomes Dysregulation of the L-Type Calcium Channel Density and Recovers Cardiac Function
Authors: Rusconi Francesca , Ceriotti Paola , Miragoli Michele , Carullo Pierluigi , Salvarani Nicolò , Rocchetti Marcella , Di Pasquale Elisa , Rossi Stefano , Tessari Maddalena , Caprari Silvia , Cazade Magali , Kunderfranco Paolo , Chemin Jean , Bang Marie-Louise , Polticelli Fabio , Zaza Antonio , Faggian Giuseppe , Condorelli Gianluigi , Catalucci Daniele 
Published: August 2016

Background:
L-type calcium channels (LTCCs) play important roles in regulating cardiomyocyte physiology, which is governed by appropriate LTCC trafficking to and density at the cell surface. Factors influencing the expression, half-life, subcellular trafficking, and gating of LTCCs are therefore critically involved in conditions of cardiac physiology and disease.

Methods:

Yeast 2-hybrid screenings, biochemical and molecular evaluations, protein interaction assays, fluorescence microscopy, structural molecular modeling, and functional studies were used to investigate the molecular mechanisms through which the LTCC Ca
v
β2 chaperone regulates channel density at the plasma membrane.

Results:

On the basis of our previous results, we found a direct linear correlation between the total amount of the LTCC pore-forming Ca
v
α1.2 and the Akt-dependent phosphorylation status of Ca
v
β2 both in a mouse model of diabetic cardiac disease and in 6 diabetic and 7 nondiabetic cardiomyopathy patients with aortic stenosis undergoing aortic valve replacement. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that a conformational change in Ca
v
β2 triggered by Akt phosphorylation increases LTCC density at the cardiac plasma membrane, and thus the inward calcium current, through a complex pathway involving reduction of Ca
v
α1.2 retrograde trafficking and protein degradation through the prevention of dynamin-mediated LTCC endocytosis; promotion of Ca
v
α1.2 anterograde trafficking by blocking Kir/Gem-dependent sequestration of Ca
v
β2, thus facilitating the chaperoning of Ca
v
α1.2; and promotion of Ca
v
α1.2 transcription by the prevention of Kir/Gem-mediated shuttling of Ca
v
β2 to the nucleus, where it limits the transcription of Ca
v
α1.2 through recruitment of the heterochromatin protein 1γ epigenetic repressor to the
Cacna1c
promoter. On the basis of this mechanism, we developed a novel mimetic peptide that, through targeting of Ca
v
β2, corrects LTCC life-cycle alterations, facilitating the proper function of cardiac cells. Delivery of mimetic peptide into a mouse model of diabetic cardiac disease associated with LTCC abnormalities restored impaired calcium balance and recovered cardiac function.

Conclusions:

We have uncovered novel mechanisms modulating LTCC trafficking and life cycle and provide proof of concept for the use of Ca
v
β2 mimetic peptide as a novel therapeutic tool for the improvement of cardiac conditions correlated with alterations in LTCC levels and function.
How precise can wood identification be? Wood anatomy’s role in support of the legal timber trade, especially cites
Authors: Gasson Peter 
Published: July 2016

Traditional wood identification techniques using light microscopy are usually sufficient to identify a wood sample to the genus level. In some cases CITES legislation requires identification to species level, which is difficult or impossible using traditional light microscopy. This paper concentrates mainly on the identification challenges posed by CITES, particularly with ramin (Gonystylus spp.), Brazilian Rosewood (Dalbergia nigra) and Agarwood (Aquilaria and Gyrinops species). All the other CITES listed timbers and some other taxa that are traded or confused with protected species and might in the future be protected by legislation are also discussed. There are several new non-anatomical techniques being tried to make more accurate identifications and these are mentioned where appropriate.
There is a mismatch between legislation and the natural world, and the limitations of the identification process need to be better appreciated by enquirers, especially in relation to CITES enquiries, since species and genus concepts vary among biologists, and can be ambiguous.
A Design-Based Approach to Improve External Validity in Welfare Policy Evaluations
Authors: Tipton Elizabeth , Peck Laura R. 
Published: July 2016

Background: Large-scale randomized experiments are important for determining how policy interventions change average outcomes. Researchers have begun developing methods to improve the external validity of these experiments. One new approach is a balanced sampling method for site selection, which does not require random sampling and takes into account the practicalities of site recruitment including high nonresponse. Method: The goal of balanced sampling is to develop a strategic sample selection plan that results in a sample that is compositionally similar to a well-defined inference population. To do so, a population frame is created and then divided into strata, which “focuses” recruiters on specific subpopulations. Units within these strata are then ranked, thus identifying “replacements” similar to sites that can be recruited when the ideal site refuses to participate in the experiment. Result: In this article, we consider how a balanced sample strategic site selection method might be implemented in a welfare policy evaluation. Conclusion: We find that simply developing a population frame can be challenging, with three possible and reasonable options arising in the welfare policy arena. Using relevant study-specific contextual variables, we craft a recruitment plan that considers nonresponse.
Defining Thresholds for the Patient Acceptable Symptom State for the IKDC Subjective Knee Form and KOOS for Patients Who Underwent ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Muller Bart , Yabroudi Mohammad A. , Lynch Andrew , Lai Chung-Liang , van Dijk C. Niek , Fu Freddie H. , Irrgang James J. 
Published: July 2016

Background: A clinically meaningful change in patient-reported outcome (PRO) may not be associated with an acceptable state that corresponds to “feeling well,” also known as the patient acceptable symptom state (PASS). The PASS thresholds for the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form (IKDC-SKF) and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) have not been determined for individuals after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Purpose: To determine the PASS thresholds for the IKDC-SKF and KOOS in individuals at 1 to 5 years after ACL reconstruction. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis): Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Individuals 1 to 5 years after primary ACL reconstruction completed a survey that included the IKDC-SKF and KOOS. All subjects assessed satisfaction with their current state by answering the question, “Taking into account all the activity you have during your daily life, your level of pain, and also your activity limitations and participation restrictions, do you consider the current state of your knee satisfactory?” Results: A total of 251 participants (mean age ± SD, 26.1 ± 9.9 years) completed the survey at an average of 3.4 ± 1.3 years after ACL reconstruction. Of these, 223 (89.2%) individuals indicated that they were in an acceptable symptom state (PASS-Y). Analysis of the receiver operating characteristic curve revealed that the IKDC-SKF and each of the KOOS subscales (pain, symptoms, activities of daily living [ADL], sport and recreation [sport/rec], and quality of life [QoL]) were significantly better identifiers of PASS than chance as indicated by the significance of the area under the curves. The PASS threshold (sensitivity, specificity) was 75.9 (0.83, 0.96) for the IKDC-SKF, 88.9 (0.82, 0.81) for the KOOS pain, 57.1 (0.78, 0.67) for the KOOS symptoms, 100.0 (0.70, 0.89) for the KOOS ADL, 75.0 (0.87, 0.88) for the KOOS sport/rec, and 62.5 (0.82, 0.85) for the KOOS QoL. In addition, the difference between PASS-Y and PASS-N was statistically significant ( P < .001) for all PROs. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify the PASS thresholds for the IKDC-SKF and the KOOS subscales for individuals 1 to 5 years after ACL reconstruction. By identifying threshold values for the PASS, this study provides additional information to facilitate interpretation of the IKDC-SKF and KOOS in daily practice and clinical research related to ACL reconstruction.
Drop-Jump Landing Varies With Baseline Neurocognition
Authors: Herman Daniel C. , Barth Jeffrey T. 
Published: July 2016

Background: Neurocognitive status may be a risk factor for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Neurocognitive domains such as visual attention, processing speed/reaction time, and dual-tasking may influence ACL injury risk via alterations to neuromuscular performance during athletic tasks. However, the relationship between neurocognition and performance during athletic tasks is not yet established. Hypothesis: Athletes with low baseline neurocognitive scores will demonstrate poorer jump landing performance compared with athletes with high baseline neurocognitive score. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Neurocognitive performance was measured using the Concussion Resolution Index (CRI). Three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic data of the dominant limb were collected for 37 recreational athletes while performing an unanticipated jump-landing task. Healthy, nonconcussed subjects were screened using a computer-based neurocognitive test into a high performers (HP; n = 20; average CRI percentile, 78th) and a low performers (LP; n = 17; average CRI percentile, 41st) group. The task consisted of a forward jump onto a force plate with an immediate rebound to a second target that was assigned 250 milliseconds before landing on the force plate. Kinematic and kinetic data were obtained during the first jump landing. Results: The LP group demonstrated significantly altered neuromuscular performance during the landing phase while completing the jump-landing task, including significantly increased peak vertical ground-reaction force (mean ± SD of LP vs HP: 1.81 ± 0.53 vs 1.38 ± 0.37 body weight [BW]; P < .01), peak anterior tibial shear force (0.91 ± 0.17 vs 0.72 ± 0.22 BW; P < .01), knee abduction moment (0.47 ± 0.56 vs 0.03 ± 0.64 BW × body height; P = .03), and knee abduction angle (6.1° ± 4.7° vs 1.3° ± 5.6°; P = .03), as well as decreased trunk flexion angle (9.6° ± 9.6° vs 16.4° ± 11.2°; P < .01). Conclusion: Healthy athletes with lower baseline neurocognitive performance generate knee kinematic and kinetic patterns that are linked to ACL injury. Clinical Relevance: Neurocognitive testing using the CRI may be useful for identification of athletes at elevated risk for future ACL injury.
Locked lateral patella dislocation: the role for the skyline view in the trauma setting
Authors: Fleming Tom 
Published: July 2016

Objective: Acute traumatic dislocation of the patella is a common problem. These cases often either spontaneously reduce or undergo successful closed reduction in Emergency Departments. We describe a rare case of an irreducible patella dislocation in a 15 year old boy following direct trauma. Method: Intra-operative skyline views revealed lateral dislocation of the patella with the patella ‘locked’ in internal rotation. Result: Closed reduction in theatre failed and open reduction was required. Conclusion: This case illustrates the benefit of the skyline view in the radiograph series following failed closed reduction, aiding the identification of atypical dislocations and osteochondral fracture fragments.
Osteochondral Fractures of the Lateral Femoral Trochlea in Young Athletes
Authors: Walsh Stewart 
Published: July 2016

Method: Between May 2012 and September 2014 cluster of five patients with large osteochondral fractures of the lateral femoral trochlea were treated at our institution. These all occurred in high level male athletes, one at a decathlete and the other four soccer players. The MRI scan showed a characteristic appearance of a large subchondral fracture involving most of the lateral femoral trochlea. All patients were symptomatic. The patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using headless compression screws. The operative technique and short term results will be outlined. Results: Fixation appears successful in most cases. Conclusion: This appears to be a repetitive trauma related injury that occurs in young high-level athletes.
Experience Rate of Elbow Pain and Morphological Abnormality of Humeral Medial Epicondyle among Youth Baseball Players
Authors: Kotoura Yoshihiro , Morihara Toru , Kida Yoshikazu , Sukenari Tsuyoshi , Furukawa Ryuhei , Kabuto Yukichi , MInami Masataka , Onishi Okihiro , Tsujihara Takashi , Hojo Tatsuya , Fujiwara Hiroyoshi , Kubo Toshikazu 
Published: July 2016

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the experience rate of elbow pain and to clarify the relationship between morphological abnormality of the humeral medial epicondyle and positions among baseball players in elementary school (ES), junior high school (JHS) and high school (HS). Methods: In this study, 4353 baseball players who participated in our medical screening (2008-2015) were enrolled. There were 1545 players from ES, 1934 players from JHS, and 874 players from HS. We asked them to answer the questionnaire to investigate the experience of elbow pain, and the position they played. Ultrasonography of the humeral medial epicondyle was examined and irregularity, fragmentation, and malunion of the humeral medial epicondyle. The results were analyzed statistically. P < 0.05 was considered significant for all statistical analyses. Results: The experience rates of elbow pain among players in ES, JHS, and HS were 26.0%, 27.0%, and 68.3%. The rates of abnormality of humeral medial epicondyle among players in ES, JHS, and HS were 18.2%, 36.3%, and 39.9% (Table 1). The experience rate of elbow pain among pitchers and catchers was significantly higher than the fielders in ES (Table 2), however, there were no significant differences between positions in JHS and HS (Table 3,4). According to the rate of morphological abnormalities of humeral medial epicondyle, pitchers and catchers were significantly higher than fielders in ES, while only pitchers were significantly higher than the fielders in JHS and HS (Table 2,3,4). Conclusion: The experience rate of elbow pain among baseball players rose as the age increased, and the rate in HS was almost 70%. The rates of morphological abnormality of humeral medial epicondyle among pitchers and catchers were high and the tendency was observed from a young age. The primary prevention of elbow injuries in youth baseball players of all ages should be considered.
Body Mass Index, Modulated by Lateral Posterior Tibial Slope, Predicts ACL Injury Risk
Authors: Bojicic Katherine M. , Beaulieu Melanie L. , Krieger Daniel Imaizumi , Ashton-Miller James A. , Wojtys Edward M. 
Published: July 2016

Objectives: Intervention strategies to prevent ACL injury rely on increasing knowledge of risk factors. While several modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for ACL rupture have been identified, the interaction between them remains unknown. The aim of this study was to quantify the relationship between BMI and several knee geometries as potential risk factors for ACL injury. We hypothesized that an increased BMI in the presence of an increased posterior tibial slope or middle cartilage slope would increase risk of ACL injury. We also hypothesized that an increased BMI in the presence of a decreased posterior meniscal height or meniscal bone angle would result in an increased risk of ACL injury. Methods: Sagittal knee MRI files from 76 ACL-injured and 42 non-injured subjects were gathered from the institution’s archive. The PTS, MCS, PMH, and MBA were measured using the circle method and compared with BMI from the subject demographic. Data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistical regression. Figure 1 details measurements made for each knee geometry. Results: Univariate analysis of PTS showed increases in PTS significantly increase the odds of ACL tear (p = 0.043, OR =1.12). Univariate analysis of MCS showed increases of MCS significantly increase the odds of ACL tear (p = 0.037, OR = 1.12). Multivariate analysis of PTS and BMI centered around the mean (PTS*cBMI) showed increases of PTS in combination with increases in cBMI significantly increases the odds of ACL rupture (p value = .050, OR = 1.03). Table 1 shows predicted increases in ACL injury risk for combinations of increases in PTS and BMI. Conclusion: An increase in BMI will increase the risk of ACL tear when an increase in lateral posterior tibial slope is present. An increase in lateral posterior tibial slope or lateral middle cartilage slope increases the risk of an ACL tear.
Successful Return to Sport Following Distal Femoral Varus Osteotomy
Authors: Voleti Pramod Babu , Degen Ryan , Tetreault Danielle , Krych Aaron John , Williams Riley J. 
Published: July 2016

Objectives: Distal femoral varus osteotomy is an effective treatment for unloading valgus knee malalignment; however, there is limited evidence on the ability for patients to return to athletics following this procedure. The purpose of this study is to report the functional outcomes and return to sport for athletic patients that underwent distal femoral varus osteotomy. Methods: A consecutive series of athletic patients that had undergone distal femoral varus osteotomy for symptomatic lateral compartment overload and valgus knee malalignment were prospectively reviewed. All patients had a minimum of 2-year follow-up. Radiographs were assessed to determine pre-operative and post-operative alignment. Details regarding sport of interest, ability to return to sport, and timing of return were obtained from the patients. Prospective institutional registries were utilized to collect pre-operative and post-operative Marx Activity Scale and International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Evaluation Form (IKDC) scores; these values were compared using paired t-tests with p < 0.05 as the threshold for significance. Results: A total of 13 patients with a mean age of 24 years (range: 17-35) and a mean follow-up of 43 months (range: 24-74) were included in the study. Six patients underwent medial closing wedge osteotomy, and seven patients underwent lateral opening wedge osteotomy. The mean alignment correction was 8 degrees (range: 5-13). Nine patients underwent one or more concomitant procedures at the time of the osteotomy: 6 lateral femoral condyle osteochondral allografts, 2 partial lateral meniscectomies, 1 lateral meniscus allograft transplantation, and 1 revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. All patients were able to successfully return to their sport of choice (4 soccer, 2 softball, 2 running, 1 football, 1 basketball, 1 ice hockey, 1 volleyball, 1 rowing) at a mean of 11 months (range: 9-13). Furthermore, all 13 patients demonstrated an improvement in both Marx Activity Scale and IKDC scores after surgery. The mean improvement in Marx Activity Scale was 7 (mean pre-op: 4, mean post-op: 11, p < 0.01), and the mean improvement in IKDC score was 36 (mean pre-op: 53, mean post-op: 89, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Valgus knee malalignment results in overload of the lateral compartment and can severely limit one’s ability to participate in athletic activities. Correction of valgus knee malalignment through distal femoral varus osteotomy - either medial closing wedge or lateral opening wedge - can reliably result in improvement in function and return to sport, provided that concomitant chondral, meniscal, and ligamentous pathology is addressed. Therefore, distal femoral varus osteotomy should be considered in the athletic population for correction of symptomatic valgus knee malalignment.