bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology and Comorbidities of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in an Indigent Population
Authors: Sirmans Susan M. , Parish Roy C. , Blake Sandra , Wang Xiaojun 
Published: October 2015

Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. The aims of this study were to provide an estimate of the prevalence of PCOS in clinical practice; compare the risk of established cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular disease, and other comorbid conditions in women with PCOS to that of age- and race-matched controls; and explore the total costs of care that can be attributed to PCOS. Methods Louisiana Medicaid claims data were used to identify women with PCOS or its defining features and a control group in a ratio of 1:3. The prevalence of PCOS, cardiovascular risk factors (diabetes, dyslipidemia, dysmetabolic syndrome, glucose intolerance, hypertension, and obesity), key comorbidities (anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, eating disorders, infertility, obstructive sleep apnea), and diagnosed cardiovascular disease were measured. Results During 2010, the prevalence of PCOS was 0.88%. Women with PCOS were more likely to have a diagnosis of diabetes (odds ratio [OR], 4.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.63–5.21), dyslipidemia (OR, 3.56; 95% CI, 3.04–4.19), dysmetabolic syndrome (OR, 23.46; 95% CI, 13.64–40.36), glucose intolerance (OR, 5.46; 95% CI, 3.10–9.60), hypertension (OR, 2.76; 95% CI, 2.41–3.18), obesity (OR, 5.79; 95% CI, 5.07–6.62), infertility (OR, 23.42; 95% CI, 10.63–51.61), obstructive sleep apnea (OR, 6.47; 95% CI, 3.62–11.55), anxiety (OR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.53–2.04), bipolar disorders (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.55–2.44), and depression (OR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.94–2.54) than did controls. Average total costs of care for the year was $5551 in the PCOS group and $3496 in the control group. After controlling for the effects of other variables, the average total cost of care for PCOS was $637 higher than that of the control group. Other variables that contributed significantly to the total costs of care included race, age, acute myocardial infarction, transient ischemic attack, peripheral artery disease, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Conclusions Although the clinical burden of PCOS is high, it is diagnosed less frequently in clinical practice compared with systematic screening studies. This is concerning considering that PCOS is associated with cardiovascular risk factors and other comorbidities. Mean total costs of care for the PCOS group was higher than the mean total costs of care for the control group. Polycystic ovary syndrome is independently associated with an increase in mean total costs of care.
Elevated Serum Levels of Calprotectin (Myeloid-Related Protein 8/14) in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis and Its Association with Disease Activity and Quality of Life
Authors: Oktayoglu Pelin , Bozkurt Mehtap , Mete Nuriye , Caglayan Mehmet , Em Serda , Nas Kemal 
Published: October 2015

Background Calprotectin is one of the major leukocyte S100 proteins showing both calcium binding and antimicrobial characteristics. The serum level of calprotectin is markedly elevated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, as well as systemic lupus erythematosus and has been suggested to play a prominent role in both progression and pathogenesis of these diseases. Aim The purpose of this study was to investigate the serum level of calprotectin in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and its association with disease activity and other clinical characteristics of AS. Materials and Methods Thirty-one patients who met the modified New York criteria for AS and 45 healthy controls were included in this study. Both Bath AS disease activity index and AS disease activity score were applied on the patients with AS for the assessment of disease activity; Bath AS functional index, for the assessment of functional activity; Bath AS radiology index, for the assessment of radiological damage; and the AS quality of life questionnaire for the assessment of disease-related life status. Spinal and hip measurements were performed using Bath AS metrology index. The serum level of calprotectin was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Results Mean serum level of calprotectin was significantly higher in the patients with AS compared with healthy controls ( P = 0.003). Serum levels of calprotectin did not correlate with Bath AS disease activity index, AS disease activity score, Bath AS functional index, Bath AS radiology index, Bath AS metrology index, modified Schober, chest expansion, AS quality of life questionnaire, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein values ( P > 0.05). Conclusions Our results suggest that calprotectin might play an important role in the pathogenetic mechanisms of AS; however, the calprotectin levels did not correlate with the measurements of disease activity, functional abilities, radiological damage, and the quality of life in these patients. Further insight into this area of research might provide opportunities to develop novel treatment strategies, which take into account the role of these peptides in the pathogenetic mechanisms of AS.
Why We Need Community Engagement in Medical Research
Authors: Holzer Jessica K. , Ellis Lauren , Merritt Maria W. 
Published: October 2015

Background The medical research enterprise depends on public recognition of its societal value. In light of evidence indicating public mistrust, especially among minorities, inadequate enrollment as well as diversity of research participants, and poor uptake of findings, medical research seems to fall short of sufficient public regard. Community engagement in medical research, with special attention to minority communities, may help to remedy this shortfall by demonstrating respect for the communities in practical ways. Approach We provided 3 case examples that illustrate how specific approaches to community-engaged research can build trust between researchers and communities, encourage participation among underrepresented groups, and enhance the relevance as well as the uptake of research findings. Discussion A common attribute of the specific approaches discussed here is that they enable the researchers to demonstrate respect by recognizing community values and interests. The demonstration of respect for the communities has intrinsic ethical importance. Conclusions The 2 potential outgrowths of demonstrating respect specifically through community engagement are (1) the production of research that is more relevant to the community and (2) the mitigation of asymmetry in the researcher-community relationship. We summarized practical resources available to researchers who seek to incorporate community engagement in their research.
Relationship between Serum Leptin and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in US Adults: Results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Sueblinvong Viranuj , Liangpunsakul Suthat 
Published: October 2015

Background Recent studies suggest an important role for leptin in respiratory immune responses and pathogenesis of inflammatory respiratory diseases. There has been an interest to explore whether leptin plays any role in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Objective We conducted a population-based study to evaluate the relationship between serum leptin and COPD in the third US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey participants. Participants and Design Our study group was constituted by 6415 adults who had fasting serum leptin and underwent spirometry measurement. Main Outcome Measures Serum leptin levels were compared (1) between subjects with normal lung function and those with COPD and (2) among COPD subjects with different severities. Results Among male participants, 2257 were controls, and 680 had COPD. Compared with controls, COPD subjects were older (62 vs 43 years) and had higher prevalence of smokers (78% vs 58%), lower body mass index (BMI) (26.3 vs 26.9), and higher serum leptin levels (6.6 vs 5.9). For female participants, 2918 were controls, and 560 had COPD. Those with COPD were older (60 vs 43 years) and had lower BMI (26.9 vs 27.7). No differences in serum leptin levels were observed. The independent predictors of COPD in both sexes were age, BMI, and smoking, but not serum leptin. There were no differences in serum leptin among COPD subjects with different severities. Conclusions We did not find any significant difference in the levels of serum leptin in subjects with COPD. Our data provide indirect evidence against a major role for serum leptin in the pathogenesis of COPD in humans.
Adenoviral Delivery of Recombinant Soluble Human Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor 1 Partially Normalized Mouse Model of Asthma
Authors: Huang Guo-Hua , Zeng Xiao-Li , Cheng Yuan-Xiong , Zhu Shun-Fang , Luo Wei , Wen Qian , Cai Shao-Xi , Su Jin 
Published: October 2015

Background Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) is a proinflammatory cytokine that has been implicated in the airway pathology of asthma and result in resistance to hormone therapy. Tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors have become a major research focus in the treatment of asthma. Methods Recombinant adenovirus (Ad-sTNFR1-IgGFc) expressing a fusion protein (sTNFR1-IgGFc), which was consisted of the soluble extracellular region of TNF receptor 1 and Fc fragment of IgG (sTNFR1-IgGFc), was used to transduce primary human airway smooth muscle cells (HASMCs). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, and immunocytochemistry confirmed the expression of sTNFR1-IgGFc. MTT was used to test the effect of sTNFR1-IgGFc to antagonism TNF-α–induced proliferates of HASMCs. To investigate the in vivo effectiveness of sTNFR1-IgGFc, mouse model of asthma was established. Ad-sTNFR1-IgGFc was delivered to the lung via nasal spray. Expression of sTNFR1-IgGFc in the tissue was confirmed by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. The 2 major cell types that are involved in the inflamed asthmatic airway, neutrophils and eosinophils, in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were observed. Results The sTNFR1-IgGFc isolated from transduced HASMC culture supernatant was able to antagonize HASMC proliferation stimulated by TNF-α. Asthma-induced pathologies and alterations in the cell composition in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were reduced in mice subjected to Ad-sTNFR1-IgGFc therapy. Conclusions The soluble extracellular region of TNF receptor 1 and Fc fragment of IgG was able to functionally antagonize TNF-α in vitro and showed promise as a therapeutic agent for the localized treatment of severe refractory asthma.
The Relation between the Degree of Left Ventricular Mass Regression and Serum Potassium Level Change in Patients with Primary Aldosteronism after Adrenalectomy
Authors: Liao Che-Wei , Chen Aaron , Lin Yen-Tin , Chang Yi-Yao , Wang Shuo-Meng , Wu Vin-Cent , Hung Chi-Sheng , Wu Kwan-Dun , Chueh Shih-Chieh , Lin Yen-Hung ,   The TAIPAI Study Group
Published: October 2015

Background Primary aldosteronism (PA) is one of the major etiologies for secondary hypertension featuring more prominent left ventricular hypertrophy. The purpose of the study was to investigate the predictive factors of left ventricular mass index (LVMI) regression in patients with PA after adrenalectomy. Methods We prospectively analyzed 30 patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) who received adrenalectomy from October 2006 to September 2008. Echocardiography was performed preoperation and 1 year after operation. Results Thirty patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma undergoing adrenalectomy were enrolled. In a 1-year follow-up, LVMI decreased significantly by an average of 18.6%. Net LVMI decrease (ΔLVMI) was associated with preoperative LVMI, preoperative serum potassium level, baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP), baseline diastolic blood pressure, net SBP decrease (ΔSBP), net diastolic blood pressure decrease, preoperative/postoperative change of log-transformed plasma aldosterone concentration, preoperative/postoperative change of log-transformed plasma renin activity, and preoperative/postoperative change of serum potassium level (Δserum potassium level). In a multiple regression analysis, preoperative LVMI (β = −0.287, P = 0.049), ΔSBP (β = 0.518, P = 0.01), and Δserum potassium level (β = −20.471, P = 0.014) were significantly correlated with ΔLVMI. Conclusions The LVMI in patients with PA regressed significantly after adrenalectomy. Preoperative LVMI, ΔSBP, and Δserum potassium levels are independent factors associated with the degree of LVMI regression.
Perioperative Outcomes, Transfusion Requirements, and Inflammatory Response after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting with Off-Pump, Mini-Extracorporeal, and On-Pump Circulation Techniques
Authors: Brinkman William T. , Squiers John J. , Filardo Giovanni , Arsalan Mani , Smith Robert L. , Moore David , Mack Michael J. , DiMaio J. Michael 
Published: October 2015

Objectives Mini-extracorporeal circulation (MECC) units were developed to reduce postoperative morbidity, transfusion requirements, and inflammation associated with conventional on-pump coronary artery bypass (ONCAB) surgery without the technical demands of the off-pump (OPCAB) technique. We compared perioperative outcomes and inflammatory mediation among OPCAB, MECC, and ONCAB techniques. Methods We prospectively enrolled 102 patients undergoing elective isolated coronary bypass grafting. Perfusion methods were OPCAB (n = 34), MECC (n = 34), and ONCAB (n = 34). Serial blood samples were collected to measure serum inflammatory markers. Results There were no operative deaths or strokes. Total red blood cell (RBC) products used in OPCAB, MECC, and ONCAB patients were 0.676, 1.000, and 1.235 units, respectively. Adjusted (by splined Society of Thoracic Surgeons operative risk score) analysis showed no statistically significant differences in mean RBC product use among the different operative systems (OPCAB vs MECC, P = 0.580; OPCAB vs ONCAB, P = 0.311; MECC vs ONCAB, P = 0.633). Adjusted (by Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk score and baseline level) mean plasma level differences (24 hours postoperative - baseline) of C-reactive protein for OPCAB (117.89; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 106.23–129.54) and for MECC (124.88; 95% CI, 113.45–136.32) were significantly higher than for ONCAB (98.82; 95% CI, 86.40–111.24). No significant adjusted differences ( P = 0.304) in interleukin-6 level changes were observed. Conclusions Off-pump coronary artery bypass and MECC did not significantly reduce mean total RBC transfusion requirements. Off-pump coronary artery bypass and MECC were associated with greater C-reactive protein elevation than ONCAB, suggestive of an increased inflammatory response to each of these techniques.
Chinese traditionality and career success
Authors: Ngo Hang-yue , Li Hui 
Published: October 2015

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between Chinese traditionality (an individual-level cultural variable) and subjective career success in the Chinese context. It explores whether Chinese traditionality influences employees’ perceptions of procedural justice and job insecurity, which in turn affect their job and career satisfaction.Design/methodology/approach– Data were collected via employee survey from 482 workers in three large companies in China. The HR department helped us to distribute a self-administered questionnaire to the respondents. The authors assured them of confidentiality and protected their anonymity. Path analysis was used to evaluate the relationships in the conceptual model. For testing the mediating hypotheses, the authors employed Sobel tests and bootstrapping.Findings– The results indicate that Chinese traditionality is related to procedural justice and perceived job insecurity. The authors further found that Chinese traditionality exerts a significant effect on both job and career satisfaction, and such effects are fully mediated by procedural justice and perceived job insecurity.Practical implications– Based on the findings, Chinese firms should pay attention to employees’ cultural values and their perceptions of work context, which significantly affect their job and career satisfaction. It is also important to ensure a high level of procedural justice and job security as perceived by the employees.Originality/value– This study is the first exploration of the relationship between Chinese traditonality and subjective career success. It also reveals the mediating role of procedural justice and perceived job insecurity in the above relationship. The new findings add to the cross-cultural research on careers.
Yes Bank: Innovation in money transfer
Authors: Sawaikar Narasinha 
Published: October 2015

Subject area
Banking, Emerging Markets, Innovation.

Study level/applicability
Undergraduate Business students and MBA students.

Case overview
This case describes the creation of YES MONEY: a domestic remittance service for migrant workers. Broadly, the case is about conceiving and deploying an information and communication technology-based solution for financial inclusion. It describes how Anand Bajaj, chief innovation officer at YES BANK, created a solution for migrant workers who wished to send their money to their families in rural India.

Expected learning outcomes
Gaining a better understanding of the process of creating new services, especially in the banking industry. Understanding the context in which YES BANK operated when it created YES MONEY. Drawing general lessons that can be applied to innovation, especially in emerging markets.

Supplementary materials
Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.
Social innovation education: towards a framework for learning design
Authors: Alden Rivers Bethany , Armellini Alejandro , Maxwell Rachel , Allen Sue , Durkin Chris 
Published: October 2015

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to propose a theoretical framework to support the embedding of social innovation education in existing academic programmes.Design/methodology/approach– By adopting Conoleet al.’s (2004) methodological approach to reviewing, mapping and modelling learning theory, this study addresses four research questions: how can social innovation education be defined? Which learning theories best support social innovation education? How do such learning theories relate to existing models of learning in higher education? What implications does a social innovation pedagogy have for learning design?Findings– Findings suggest that social innovation education is supported by a praxis that is grounded in critical learning theory, transformational learning theory and epistemological development. By extending Conoleet al.’s (2004) model of learning theory, the present study proposes a “zone of pedagogical praxis for social innovation education” that supports learning design on a more critical plane.Research limitations/implications– The proposed model of learning may be of interest to other universities as they work towards stronger thinkers and stronger communities.Practical implications– Using a theory-informed model for learning design nurtures a pedagogical praxis and underpins the development of a practical toolkit for designing social innovation education.Originality/value– The findings of this study will provide a point of reference for other higher education institutions as they look for guidance on embedding principles of social innovation into their curricula.
Respiratory quinones in Archaea: phylogenetic distribution and application as biomarkers in the marine environment
Authors: Elling Felix J. , Becker Kevin W. , Könneke Martin , Schröder Jan M. , Kellermann Matthias Y. , Thomm Michael , Hinrichs Kai‐Uwe 
Published: October 2015

SummaryThe distribution of respiratory quinone electron carriers among cultivated organisms provides clues on both the taxonomy of their producers and the redox processes these are mediating. Our study of the quinone inventories of 25 archaeal species belonging to the phyla Eury‐, Cren‐ and Thaumarchaeota facilitates their use as chemotaxonomic markers for ecologically important archaeal clades. Saturated and monounsaturated menaquinones with six isoprenoid units forming the alkyl chain may serve as chemotaxonomic markers for Thaumarchaeota. Other diagnostic biomarkers are thiophene‐bearing quinones for Sulfolobales and methanophenazines as functional quinone analogues of the Methanosarcinales. The ubiquity of saturated menaquinones in the Archaea in comparison to Bacteria suggests that these compounds may represent an ancestral and diagnostic feature of the Archaea. Overlap between quinone compositions of distinct thermophilic and halophilic archaea and bacteria may indicate lateral gene transfer. The biomarker potential of thaumarchaeal quinones was exemplarily demonstrated on a water column profile of the Black Sea. Both, thaumarchaeal quinones and membrane lipids showed similar distributions with maxima at the chemocline. Quinone distributions indicate that Thaumarchaeota dominate respiratory activity at a narrow interval in the chemocline, while they contribute only 9% to the microbial biomass at this depth, as determined by membrane lipid analysis.
Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Bran in Bread Making: A Critical Review
Authors: Hemdane Sami , Jacobs Pieter J. , Dornez Emmie , Verspreet Joran , Delcour Jan A. , Courtin Christophe M. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractWheat bran, a by‐product of the industrial roller milling of wheat, is increasingly added to food products because of its nutritional profile and physiological effects. Epidemiological data and scientific studies have demonstrated the health benefits of consuming bran‐rich or whole‐grain food products. However, incorporation of wheat bran in cereal‐based products negatively affects their production process. Furthermore, the organoleptic quality of the obtained products is mostly perceived as inferior to that of products based on refined wheat flour. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the impact of wheat bran on bread making, provides a comprehensive overview of the bran properties possibly involved, and discusses different strategies that have been evaluated up till now to counteract the detrimental effects of wheat bran on bread making.