bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nanoparticle oxygen delivery to the ischemic heart
Authors: Swyer TW , Strom J , Larson DF 
Published: May 2014

Objective: Currently there are no medications that can be administered to help deliver more oxygen to the myocardial region experiencing abnormal perfusion. The purpose of this study was to look at the nanoparticle dodecafluoropentane in an emulsion as an oxygen carrier. Using nanoparticles as an oxygen carrier is advantageous because they are able to carry oxygen past blockages that are obstructing red blood cells (6-8 µm) due to their smaller size (250 nm). With the reintroduction of oxygen to the ischemic muscle tissue, a reduced infarct size should be seen. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice underwent left anterior descending artery (LAD) ligation using 8-0 monofilament nylon suture. Immediately after ligation of the LAD, the control group received a 200-µl intravenous injection of phosphate buffered saline (PBS). The treated group received a dose of 0.6 ml/kg of dodecafluoropentane diluted to a total volume of 200 µl in PBS. The mice were then allowed to recover from anesthesia and were sacrificed 24 hours after the time of ligation. After the mice were sacrificed, the heart was excised and placed at -20°C for 20 minutes. The heart was then sliced into 1-mm sections and stained with tetrazolium red to identify the infarcted area. The area of infarct and ventricle were then analyzed using ImageJ software. Results: The average area of infarct in comparison to the ventricle for the control mice was 29.3±0.04% compared to 11.7±0.02% for the dodecafluoropentane-treated mice. Conclusion: The use of dodecafluoropentane in this murine model of myocardial infarction showed a 60% reduction in infarct size (p<0.01). The possibility of using nanoparticles to deliver oxygen to hypoxic tissues has interesting implications and justifies further study.
Virtual reality for upper extremity rehabilitation in early stroke: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yin Chan Wai , Sien Ng Yee , Ying Low Ai , Chung Stephanie Fook-Chong Man , Tan May Leng Dawn 
Published: May 2014

Objectives: To investigate the effect of virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation on upper extremity motor performance of patients with early stroke. Design: Pilot randomized controlled trial. Setting: Rehabilitation wards. Participants: Twenty three adults with stroke (mean age (SD) = 58.35 (13.45) years and mean time since stroke (SD) = 16.30 (7.44) days). Interventions: Participants were randomly assigned to VR group ( n=11) or control group ( n=12). VR group received nine 30 minutes upper extremity VR therapy in standing (five weekdays in two weeks) plus conventional therapy, which included physical and occupational therapy. Control group received only conventional therapy, which was comparable to total training time received by VR group (mean training hours (SD):VR = 17.07 (2.86); control = 15.50 (2.79)). Main outcome measures: The main outcome measure was the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA). Secondary outcomes included Action Research Arm Test, Motor Activity Log and Functional Independence Measure. Results were taken at baseline, post intervention and 1-month post intervention. Participants’ feedback and adverse effects were recorded. Results: All participants improved in FMA scores (mean change (SD) = 11.65 (8.56), P<.001). These effects were sustained at one month after intervention (mean (SD) change from baseline = 18.67 (13.26), P<.001). All other outcome measures showed similar patterns. There were no significant differences in improvement between both groups. Majority of the participants found VR training useful and enjoyable, with no serious adverse effects reported. Conclusion: Although additional VR training was not superior to conventional therapy alone, this study demonstrates the feasibility of VR training in early stroke.
Association of miR-146a polymorphisms with systemic lupus erythematosus: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ji JD , Cha ES , Lee WJ 
Published: May 2014

Objective miR-146a may play important roles in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Several studies have examined the association of miR-146a gene polymorphisms with SLE, but these studies have shown inconclusive results. To verify whether an association exists, we conducted a meta-analysis of all relevant reports cited in MEDLINE/PubMed and EMBASE before August 2013. Methods Meta-analyses were performed on three published studies of the association between the miR-146a rs57095329 SNP and SLE for 5934 patients with SLE and 5591 controls as well as on four published studies of the association between miR-146a rs2910164 SNP and SLE for 2505 patients with SLE and 3248 controls. In addition, two studies involving 1920 SLE patients and 2472 controls were included in a meta-analysis of the association between miR-146a rs2431697 SNP and SLE. Summary odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled by the inverse of their variance. Results Of three SNPs analyzed, rs57095329 (OR 1.25, 95%CI 1.17–1.35) and rs2431697 (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.13–1.37) were genetically associated with SLE. However, no significant association was found between rs2910164 and SLE susceptibility (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.90–1.06). There was no significant heterogeneity across studies and no evidence of publication bias. Conclusions The results of our meta-analysis suggest that miR-146a rs57095329 and rs2431697 SNPs are associated with SLE susceptibility. In addition, our results suggest that there is an ethnical difference between Asian and European populations in the association between miR-146a SNPs and SLE susceptibility.
Cost-benefit analysis of Hyperphenylalaninemia Due to 6-Pyruvoyl-Tetrahydropterin Synthase (PTPS) Deficiency: For Consideration of Expanded Newborn Screening in Hong Kong
Authors: LEE Hencher Han-chih , MAK Chloe Miu , Poon Grace Wing-Kit , Wong Kar-Yin , LAM Ching-wan 
Published: May 2014

Objectives To evaluate the cost-benefit of implementing an expanded newborn screening programme for hyperphenylalaninemias due to 6-pyruvoyl-tetrahydropterin synthase (PTPS) deficiency in Hong Kong. Setting Regional public hospitals in Hong Kong providing care for cases of inborn errors of metabolism. Methods Implementational and operational costs of a new expanded mass spectrometry-based newborn screening programme were estimated. Data on various medical expenditures for the mild and severe phenotypic subtypes were gathered from a case cohort diagnosed with PTPS deficiency from 2001 to 2009. Local incidence from a previously published study was used. Results Implementation and operational costs of an expanded newborn screening programme in Hong Kong were estimated at HKD 10,473,848 (USD 1,342,801) annually. Assuming a birthrate of 50,000 per year and an incidence of 1 in 29,542 live births, the medical costs and adjusted loss of workforce per year would be HKD 20,773,207 (USD 2,663,232). Overall the annual savings from implementing the programme would be HKD 9,632,750 (USD 1,234,968). Conclusions Our estimates show that implementation of an expanded newborn screening programme in Hong Kong is cost-effective, with a significant annual saving for public expenditure.
Effect of a pre-screening survey on attendance in colorectal cancer screening: A double-randomized study in Finland
Authors: Helander Sanni , Hakama Matti , Malila Nea 
Published: May 2014

Objectives To explore effects of a pre-screening life style survey on the subsequent attendance proportion in colorectal cancer screening. Setting Finnish colorectal cancer screening programme in 2011. Design Double randomized and controlled follow-up design. Methods The study population comprised of 31,951 individuals born in 1951. In 2010 to a random sample of every sixth (n = 5,312) person we sent a 7-paged life style questionnaire, and to another random sample of every sixth person (n = 5,336) a 10-paged life style and quality of life questionnaire. One year later, in 2011, 31,484 individuals of the original cohort were independently randomized (1:1) for colorectal cancer screening (n = 15,748) or control group (n = 15,736). Of those who were invited for screening, 5185 had received a questionnaire during the previous year. Results 5870 individuals (55.1 %) responded to the questionnaire in 2010. The overall attendance at screening in 2011 was 59.0 % in those born in 1951 (i.e. the 60-year-olds). In those who had been sent the survey the attendance in screening was 56.6% (57.3% for the short and 56.0% for the long questionnaire) and in those who had not received the questionnaire it was 60.2% ( P < 0.001). Conclusions We believe that the observed reduction in attendance in those who had been sent a questionnaire earlier is generally true. Thus, if any survey is enclosed in the screening invitation, this finding should be taken into account when planning the programme. Any extra effort requested may reduce the attendance proportion for screening, reducing the population level impact of screening.
Influence of ABO genotype and phenotype on angiotensin-converting enzyme plasma activity
Authors: Gassó Patricia , Ritter Marie A , Mas Sergi , Lafuente Amalia 
Published: May 2014

Introduction: ABO rs495828 polymorphism has recently been associated with risk of hypertension and cough induced by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which could be due to low ACE plasma activity. To study whether ABO rs495828 is associated with ACE activity. The association between ABO genotype and phenotype, and differences in ACE activity between the ABO phenotype groups were also studied. Subjects and methods: We genotyped 168 subjects for rs495828. ACE plasma activity and ABO histo-blood group were measured in all minor allele homozygous subjects (TT) that agreed to participate in the study ( n=8) and in age- and gender-matched heterozygous subjects (GT; n=8) and major allele homozygous subjects (GG; n=8). Results: A non-significant trend was found in ACE activity among rs495828 genotype groups; however the polymorphism was significantly associated with ABO phenotype ( p=0.007), which in turn was associated with ACE activity ( p=0.029). Conclusion: These results provide new evidence for the ABO-ACE relationship. Although the genetic marker studied here may be involved somehow, ABO phenotype is shown to be a better predictor of ACE plasma activity.
How an Intranet Provides Opportunities for Learning Organizational Culture
Authors: Bennett Elisabeth E. 
Published: May 2014

The Problem Organizational culture is a central part of defining virtual human resource development (VHRD), yet little empirical research has uncovered the relationship between culture and intranets. Intranets constitute the webbed environment that enables VHRD, and much can be learned from studying an intranet used strategically for an organization. Specifically, the problem addressed in this article was the question, how does an intranet provide opportunities for learning organizational culture? The Solution Case research in a hospital setting explored the problem and found four themes for how an intranet enabled participants to learn and experience the larger culture. A primary conclusion of the study was that an intranet can convey and renew organizational culture when members interact and experience organizational values in action. Implications for human resource development (HRD) professionals include addressing the design and development of organizational systems to support cultural messages that are congruent with organizational objectives and to consider how intranets can support informal learning and community building necessary for VHRD. The Stakeholders Stakeholders for this article include HRD professionals who help implement new technology and use technical applications to support practice, leaders who oversee virtual work, and scholars who aim to further research and theory in VHRD.
Exploring a Sociomaterial Perspective on Technology in Virtual Human Resource Development
Authors: Fagan Mary Helen 
Published: May 2014

The Problem Technology is creating immersive digital ecosystems that will radically transform the way humans communicate, collaborate, and create. Virtual human resource development (VHRD) is an example of this phenomenon in the field of HRD. With the emergence of VHRD, HRD scholars need to develop more robust conceptualizations of technology, and HRD practitioners need to play a larger role in technology development. Enhanced theoretical perspectives on technology are needed to support these endeavors. The Solution A sociomaterial perspective on technology, which is being used for the study and development of phenomena such as virtual worlds in other disciplines, can help HRD practitioners and scholars develop a more robust understanding of VHRD and participate more effectively in technology development. The Stakeholders HRD practitioners and scholars can use a sociomaterial perspective on technology to facilitate their engagement in VHRD development and scholarship.
An Initial Conceptualization of Virtual Scenario Planning
Authors: McWhorter Rochell R. , Lynham Susan A. 
Published: May 2014

The Problem Recent disruptive events introduced high volatility and uncertainty into the contemporary organizational environment whereby well-established organizations found scenario planning (SP) useful to craft strategy. However, because SP is typically a very costly endeavor, it is less accessible to new startups, small businesses, nonprofits, and large-scale organizations that could greatly benefit. The Solution We propose an initial conceptual model whereby sophisticated technologies that typically enable virtual events be utilized to facilitate virtual SP activities for real-time participation from geographically disbursed locations reducing expenses and providing access to one of human resource development’s (HRD’s) strategic learning tools. We posit that HRD professionals be involved in planning and implementation through the scope of technology development within the context of virtual HRD. The Stakeholders This article provides researchers and scholar-practitioners with a conceptualization of current thinking around the notion of utilizing technology to create an online environment conducive for SP. This article will be of particular interest to those involved in formulating organizational strategy including those where costs of face-to-face SP and other forms of strategic initiatives are either time or cost prohibitive.
Inhibitory effect of adenosine on intimal hyperplasia and proliferation of smooth muscle cells in a carotid arterial anastomosis animal model
Authors: Albayrak Gokhan , Silistreli Erdem , Ergur Bekir , Kalkan Sule , Karabay Ozalp , Erdal A Cenk , Acikel Unal 
Published: May 2014

Purpose The effect of adenosine (9-β-0-ribifuranosyladenine) on the endothelial cell proliferation and neointimal hyperplasia is investigated in the rabbit carotid artery anastomosis model. Methods Twenty-eight New Zealand white rabbits were arranged in four groups of seven animals each. The right carotid arteries of each animal were transsected and re-anastomosed. The left sides remained as control. In Group A, no medication was used. In Group B, subcutaneous Adenosine was applied for 3 days. In Group C, the same dose was applied for 7 days, and in Group D for 21 days. After 28 days, the luminal diameters, luminal areas, intima/media ratios were all measured by using histopathological evaluation. Findings The mean luminal diameters and areas of the four groups were smaller than the control ones. Massive thickening of smooth muscle cell proliferation and dense intensifying in the connecting tissues were observed most prominently in Group A, in decreasing degrees within other groups. Intima/media ratio was highest in Group A. Scoring the quantity of e-NOS positive staining also revealed a significant difference between the experimental groups and their control associates. Conclusion The process of endothelial cell proliferation and neointimal hyperplasia can be significantly reduced by the use of adenosine.
Physiotherapists use of and perspectives on the importance of patient-reported outcome measures for shoulder dysfunction
Authors: Payne Carol , Michener Lori A 
Published: May 2014

Background Many patient-reported outcome measures (PROs) for shoulder dysfunctions have acceptable psychometric properties. The present study examined current PRO usage and perceived importance. Methods Delegates at the 2010 International Congress of Shoulder and Elbow Therapists were invited to participate in this cross-sectional observational study. Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) web-based tools were used to design an online questionnaire, which was e-mailed to participants. Results Participants ( n = 101) reflected an 84% response rate. PRO use was considered ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ important by the majority of clinicians (76%) and researchers (98%). Most commonly used as a primary outcome by clinicians and researchers, respectively, were the Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder Hand Questionnaire (DASH) (40%, 44%) and the Oxford Shoulder Scale (OSS) (36%, 22%) and, as secondary outcomes, the DASH (33%, 28%), OSS (17%, 8%), the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) (8%,18%), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons standardized assessment form (ASES) (8%, 13%). Psychometric properties were rated as ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ important by 86% to 96% of participants. Conclusions The majority of shoulder therapists consider PRO use to be very important and psychometric properties to be critical in PRO selection. The DASH, OSS, SPADI and ASES are most commonly used in clinical practice and research studies.
Biomechanical testing of a novel osteosynthesis plate for the ulnar coronoid process
Authors: Kiene Johannes , Bogun Jorn , Brockhaus Nina , Waizner Klaus , Schulz Arndt-Peter , Wendlandt Robert 
Published: May 2014

Background The present study aimed to biomechanically evaluate a novel locking plate intended for osteosynthesis of coronoid fracture compared to mini L-plates and cannulated screws. Methods Biomechanical tests were performed on a fracture model in synthetic bones. Three groups, each with eight implant-bone-constructs, were analyzed in quasi-static and dynamic tests. Finally, samples were tested destructively for maximum strength. Results The mean (SD) highest stiffness was measured for the novel plate [693 (18) N/mm], followed by the mini L-plate [646 (37) N/mm] and the cannulated screws [249 (113) N/mm]. During the cycling testing of the novel plate and the mini L-plate, no failures occurred, although three of the eight samples of cannulated screws failed during the test. The mean (SD) maximum strength during the destructive testing was 1333 (234) N for the novel plate, 1338 (227) N for the mini-L-plate and 459 (56) N for the cannulated screws. No statistical differences were found during the destructive testing between the two plates ( p = 0.999), although statistical differences were found between both plates and the cannulated screws ( p = 0.000 each). Conclusions Osteosynthesis of the coronoid process using the novel plate is mechanically similar to the mini L-plate. Both plates were superior to osteosynthesis with cannulated screws.
Capstan screw rotator cuff repair: a novel two-row mini-open technique
Authors: Guyver Paul , Goubran Alex , Jaques Aishling , Smith Christopher , Bunker Tim 
Published: May 2014

Background Prospective data collection occurred between 2000 and 2010 on 143 consecutive patients with symptomatic rotator cuff tears, aiming to examine the end-result of a new technique of mini-open double row repair: the Capstan screw technique. Methods All patients had a pre- and postoperative Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and range of movement measurements. All were followed up for a minimum of 1 year with an exit questionnaire. Subscapularis repairs, small (<1 cm) and massive (>5 cm) supraspinatus repairs were excluded. Ninety-nine patients fitted the inclusion and exclusion criteria of whom 87 had a complete data set. Results The mean (SD) pre-operative OSS was 21.85 (8.6) and the mean (SD) postoperative OSS was 44.58 (5.2) ( p < 0.0001). The mean (SD) pre-operative ASES score was 51.5 (19.4) and the mean (SD) postoperative ASES score was 86.42 (17.06) ( p < 0.0001). Flexion improved from a mean of 119° to 170° ( p < 0.0001). The clinical re-tear rate was 3.4% and the imaged re-tear rate was 6.8%. In total, 91% of patients were satisfied with the procedure. There were no deep infections and two (2%) minor wound infections. There was no single instance of deltoid dysfunction. Conclusions The Capstan screw technique represents a simple, rapid, strong and reliable mini-open technique.
Subscapularis Tears and Lesser Tuberosity Avulsion Fractures in the Pediatric Patient
Authors: LaMont Lauren E. , Green Daniel W. , Altchek David W. , Warren Russell F. , Wickiewicz Thomas L. 
Published: May 2014

Background: Pediatric subscapularis tears are known to be rare injuries. They are often associated with an avulsion fragment of the lesser tuberosity leading to dual description in the literature of either subscapularis tear or lesser tuberosity avulsion. Historically, they were managed nonoperatively; however, outcomes have improved with operative management. Nonoperative management often led to bony overgrowth at the lesser tuberosity that limited motion. The literature is limited to case reports and a few small case series, often not restricted to pediatric patients. Study Design: Case series. Level of Evidence: Level 5. Methods: Radiographic and operative databases were retrospectively reviewed to identify pediatric patients with subscapularis tears or lesser tuberosity avulsions in the past 10 years. Results: Five cases of pediatric subscapularis tears were identified that underwent operative management. Of the 5 cases, 4 had delayed presentation. In 1 case, the lesser tuberosity fragment was initially missed on radiographic imaging. All patients underwent operative management. Conclusion: These cases add to the body of knowledge of a rare pediatric injury that is commonly missed or diagnosis delayed. The importance of suspicion in the adolescent male patient without instability and unrelenting shoulder pain is stressed. Additionally, the importance of early magnetic resonance imaging with suspicion as well as an axillary view of the shoulder is demonstrated. As with all rare entities, it is important to disseminate information on natural history and interventions for this injury.
A randomized trial of avatrombopag, an investigational thrombopoietin-receptor agonist, in persistent and chronic immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Bussel James B. , Kuter David J. , Aledort Louis M. , Kessler Craig M. , Cuker Adam , Pendergrass Kelly B. , Tang Shande , McIntosh Joe 
Published: May 2014

Key Points
Once-daily oral avatrombopag dose-dependently raised PCs over 28 days, with stable counts maintained over a 24-week extension. Low rates of severe AEs and study drug discontinuations due to AEs occurred despite dose increases in maintenance.
Transformation of ZnO polycrystalline sheets into hexagon-like mesocrystalline ZnO rods (tubes) under ultrasonic vibration
Authors: Ding Jianning , Fang Xiang , Yang Rong , Kan Biao , Li Xiazhang , Yuan Ningyi 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The mesoscale assembly process is sensitive to additives that can modify the interactions of the crystal nucleus and the developing crystals with solid surfaces and soluble molecules. However, the presence of additives is not a prerequisite for the mesoscale transformation process. In this study, ZnO sheet networks were synthesized on Al foils by a hydrothermal process. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images confirmed that under ultrasonic vibration, monolithic polycrystalline ZnO sheets transformed into hexagon-like mesocrystalline tubes or rods. The formation mechanism was discussed.