bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Current Issues in Measurement and Reporting of Urinary Albumin Excretion
Authors: Miller W Greg , Bruns David E , Hortin Glen L , Sandberg Sverre , Aakre Kristin M , McQueen Matthew J , Itoh Yoshihisa , Lieske John C , Seccombe David W , Jones Graham , Bunk David M , Curhan Gary C , Narva Andrew S ,   on behalf of the National Kidney Disease Education Program-IFCC Working Group on Standardization of Albumin in Urine
Published: November 2008

Abstract
Background: Urinary excretion of albumin indicates kidney damage and is recognized as a risk factor for progression of kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. The role of urinary albumin measurements has focused attention on the clinical need for accurate and clearly reported results. The National Kidney Disease Education Program and the IFCC convened a conference to assess the current state of preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical issues affecting urine albumin measurements and to identify areas needing improvement.
Content: The chemistry of albumin in urine is incompletely understood. Current guidelines recommend the use of the albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) as a surrogate for the error-prone collection of timed urine samples. Although ACR results are affected by patient preparation and time of day of sample collection, neither is standardized. Considerable intermethod differences have been reported for both albumin and creatinine measurement, but trueness is unknown because there are no reference measurement procedures for albumin and no reference materials for either analyte in urine. The recommended reference intervals for the ACR do not take into account the large intergroup differences in creatinine excretion (e.g., related to differences in age, sex, and ethnicity) nor the continuous increase in risk related to albumin excretion.
Discussion: Clinical needs have been identified for standardization of (a) urine collection methods, (b) urine albumin and creatinine measurements based on a complete reference system, (c) reporting of test results, and (d) reference intervals for the ACR.
Population-Based Genomewide Genetic Analysis of Common Clinical Chemistry Analytes
Authors: Chasman Daniel I , Paré Guillaume , Ridker Paul M 
Published: November 2008

Abstract
Background: Recent technologies enable genetic association studies of common clinical analytes on a genomewide basis in populations numbering thousands of individuals. The first publications using these technologies are already revealing novel biological functions for both genic and nongenic loci, and are promising to transform knowledge about the biological networks underlying disease pathophysiology. These early studies have also led to development of a set of principles for conducting a successful genomewide association study (GWAS).
Content: This review focuses on these principles with emphasis on the use of GWAS for plasma-based analytes to better understand human disease, with examples from cardiovascular biology.
Conclusions: The correlation of common genetic variation on a genomewide basis with clinical analytes, or any other outcome of interest, promises to reveal how parts of the genome work together in human physiology. Nonetheless, performing a genomewide association study demands an awareness of very specific epidemiologic and analytic principles.
Polymorphisms in Inflammatory Genes and the Risk of Ischemic Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack: Results of a Multilocus Genotyping Assay
Authors: Greisenegger Stefan , Zehetmayer Sonja , Bauer Peter , Endler Georg , Ferrari Julia , Lang Wilfried , Janisiw Michael , Steiner Lori , Cheng Suzanne , Lalouschek Wolfgang , Mannhalter Christine 
Published: November 2008

Abstract
Background: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in inflammation-related genes have been linked to an increased risk of ischemic stroke. Most of these SNP results have not been replicated, however, and metaanalyses of the effects of inflammation-related genes are rare. We investigated 49 SNPs in 34 genes previously reported to be related to inflammation in our study. We tested 459 patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack and 459 controls individually matched by sex and age.
Methods: We studied genetic variation by PCR analysis and subsequent hybridization to linear arrays of sequence-specific oligonucleotides. We used univariate conditional logistic regression analysis to test for associations of conventional vascular risk factors and the SNPs with stroke. Variables showing significant differences (P &lt; 0.05) between cases and controls were included in a multivariate model. ROC curves were plotted to assess the contribution of genetic variation to stroke risk in addition to that of conventional risk factors.
Results: Univariate regression analysis revealed 3 SNPs with significant allelic differences between patients and controls, which fulfilled the criteria for further analysis. Only one of these SNPs, the C5 (complement component 5) 2416A&gt;G variant (rs17611), remained significant after the multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 0.585; P = 0.0037). ROC curve analysis revealed no contribution of this genetic variation to stroke risk.
Conclusions: We found evidence for an association of the 2416A&gt;G polymorphism in the C5 gene with the risk for ischemic stroke. Our data suggest that the C5 gene particularly influences the risk for patients with microangiopathy.
Proprioception after Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: Conti Stephen F. , Dazen Derek , Stewart Gary , Green Aron , Martin Rob , Kuxhaus Laurel , Miller Mark Carl 
Published: November 2008

Background: Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is becoming an effective treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. It is unknown if TAA alters the patient's ability to sense ankle joint position. Materials and Methods: Thirteen unilateral TAA patients with a minimum of 2-years followup completed proprioceptive testing of the TAA and the contralateral side. The task was to reproduce a given ankle angle using a joystick-driven device while the lower limb was obscured from view. Nine angles were tested, including two angles in dorsiflexion, three in plantarflexion, two in inversion, and two in eversion. A repeated-measures ANOVA was used to evaluate the results. Results: No statistically significant differences between the TAA ankle and the contralateral side were found. Conclusion: TAA does not cause a change in proprioceptive abilities in arthritis patients when compared to the contralateral, unaffected side in a small sample of unilateral patients. Surgeons and rehabilitation professionals may use this information when designing rehabilitation plans following the insertion of a TAA. Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Case Series
Fusion of the Second Metatarsocuneiform Joint for the Painful Osteoarthrosis
Authors: Kilmartin Timothy E. , O'Kane Claire 
Published: November 2008

Background: Osteoarthrosis of the second metatarsocuneiform joint presents as pain, stiffness and osteophytic thickening of the midfoot. This study sought to determine the effectiveness and outcome of surgical fusion of osteoarthritic second metatarsocuneiform (MC) joint. The association between the condition and second metatarsal length was also explored. Materials and Methods: A series of 23 patients (22 female) of average age 58 years (SD 4.9) underwent second MCJ fusion and were reviewed at an average of 42 months (SD 19.5) postoperatively. The second MC joint fusion involved resection of the joint surfaces and internal fixation with a 3-hole 2.7-mm plate. A variety of graft materials were utilized. Results: The AOFAS midfoot rating scale score rose from a preoperative mean of 47 (SD 13) to a mean 90.5 (SD 12.5) postoperatively, p < 0.0001. Seventeen patients (74%) were completely satisfied. Four patients (17%) were satisfied with reservations. Two patients (9%) were dissatisfied. Twenty-one patients (91%) considered that they were better than before the operation and two patients were no better. Nonunion occurred in three patients and internal fixation was removed in four patients. One patient went onto develop osteoarthrosis in the third MC joint. We could not establish a causal relationship between osteoathrosis of the second MC joint and second metatarsal length. Conclusion: Fusion of the second MCJ is a moderately effective treatment for osteoarthrosis of the joint. In this series of patients, 74% were pain-free and nonunion was the most serious complication encountered, no patient was made worse by surgery. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Subtalar Kinematics Following Resection of Tarsal Coalition
Authors: Hetsroni Iftach , Nyska Meir , Mann Gideon , Rozenfeld Gal , Ayalon Moshe 
Published: November 2008

Background: Pain relief and functional improvement in the short term have been demonstrated in the majority of patients with tarsal coalition following resection. Recreation of normal subtalar kinematics is an important goal in these patients as well, and may have long term implications. The purpose of our study was to examine whether kinematic variables of foot motion are normalized following resection of tarsal coalition. Materials and Methods: This study compared three groups: nine candidates for resection of tarsal coalition, nine patients between 2 and 4 years after bar resection, and nine control subjects. Ankle hindfoot scoring was evaluated according to the AOFAS. Kinematic analysis of subtalar motion in the coronal plane and in the sagittal plane was performed using a computerized gait analysis system. Results: Significantly increased passive subtalar range of motion and AOFAS ankle hindfoot scoring were demonstrated in postoperative subjects relative to preoperative subjects ( p = 0.000). However, the kinematic analysis performed during walking, revealed similar, severe restriction of the subtalar eversion-inversion motion in postoperative and preoperative subjects. Angular velocity of the subtalar motion was also similar in both coalition groups, and was significantly increased compared with control. Kinematic analysis of foot motion in the sagittal plain demonstrated improved motion in postoperative subjects, which was comparable with the control group. Conclusion: Foot kinematics are not recreated following tarsal coalition resection, despite the favorable clinical outcome observed. Clinical Relevance: Following resection of a tarsal coalition, patients continue to be subjected to increased loading and torque in their subtalar and adjacent articulations. This may promote further articular deterioration in the long term. Additional operative procedures or rehabilitation protocols should be examined to improve foot kinematics in this population. Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Case Control Study
Outcome of Proximal Chevron Osteotomy for Hallux Valgus With and Without Transverse Kirschner Wire Fixation
Authors: Lee Keun-Bae , Seo Chang-Young , Hur Chang-Ich , Moon Eun-Sun , Lee Jae-Jun 
Published: November 2008

Background: Proximal chevron osteotomy (PCO) for hallux valgus is inherently more stable than the other forms of proximal metatarsal osteotomy, but complications, such as, delayed union, nonunion, and malunion can occur. In this study, we have compared results of two axial Kirschner wire fixation with or without transverse Kirschner wires in PCO for moderate to severe hallux valgus deformities. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 65 patients (85 feet) that underwent PCO and a distal soft tissue procedure for moderate to severe hallux valgus. Patients were divided into two groups, two axial Kirschner wire fixation (Group I) and two axial and supplementary transverse Kirschner wire fixation (Group II). Group I comprised 41 feet of 32 patients and Group II 44 feet of 33 patients. Results: Average AOFAS scores were 52.8 points in group I and 49.6 points in group II preoperatively, and 92.8 and 89.6 points, respectively, at last followup. Patients were very satisfied or satisfied in 92.7% in Group I and 93.2% in Group II. Average hallux valgus angles in Groups I and II changed from 34.9 degrees and 37.2 degrees preoperatively to 12.3 degrees and 13.9 degrees postoperatively, and intermetatarsal angles in Groups I and II changed from an average of 17.9 degrees and 17.2 degrees preoperatively to 10.3 degrees and 10.4 degrees postoperatively. No significant inter-group differences were found. Conclusion: Supplementary transverse Kirschner wire fixation is not recommended for proximal metatarsal chevron osteotomy since two axial Kirschner wires provided sufficient stability. Level of Evidence: I, Prospective Radomized Study
In Vivo Kinematics of the Salto Total Ankle Prosthesis
Authors: Leszko Filip , Komistek Richard D. , Mahfouz Mohamed R. , Ratron Yves-Alain , Judet Thierry , Bonnin Michel , Colombier Jean-Alain , Lin Sheldon S. 
Published: November 2008

Background: Recent technological advancements in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) have included the introduction of the mobile bearing concept. This bearing has several advantages, but researchers have questioned whether or not increased mobility sacrifices joint stability or durability of the implant. The present study evaluated the kinematics of this type of prosthesis implanted in patients. Materials and Methods: Fluoroscopy and 3D-to-2D registration techniques were used to determine the in vivo kinematics for 20 TAA subjects performing two activities: gait and step-up. The motion of the prostheses was described in terms of clinical rotations and as rotation about the helical (screw) axis. Then, the anterior-posterior translation and axial rotation of the mobile bearing insert were determined. Results: Among the clinical rotations, the dorsi-/plantarflexion was the most dominant, revealing the greatest pattern change and the largest magnitude. During gait, the orientation of the prosthetic components changed smoothly from plantarflexion to dorsiflexion. The average range of this motion was 9.2 degrees. For step-up activity, the range was 8.0 degrees. However, between 33% and 66% of stance phase, the talar component's orientation changed from dorsiflexion to plantarflexion. The average absolute range of anterior-posterior translation of the mobile bearing insert was 1.5 mm and 2.3 mm for gait and step-up, respectively. Conclusion: These measured translations were relatively small and may suggest that the rotational portion of the motion was more dominant than translational and provided sufficient mobility. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Deep Infection in the Sinus Tarsi after Triple Arthrodesis in Rheumatoid Patients: A Case Report
Authors: Niinimäki Tuukka , Yli-Luukko Susanna , Syrjälä Hannu , Kaarela Outi , Leppilahti Juhana 
Published: November 2008

Background: Triple arthrodesis can be used to correct hind-foot deformities in rheumatoid patients. Postoperative deep infections after triple arthrodesis are challenging to treat often requiring both operative debridement and antimicrobial therapy. The purpose of the present study was to review the treatment of deep infections in the sinus tarsi region in rheumatoid patients after triple arthrodesis using antimicrobial therapy and Papineau bone grafting or local muscle flap. Materials and Methods: Seven rheumatoid patients out of 97 who underwent triple arthrodesis between January 1997 and June 2006 had a deep postoperative infection in the sinus tarsi region. These infections were treated with systemic antibiotic therapy combined with open cancellous bone grafting (Papineau technique) in four cases and with a local muscle flap (adductor digiti minimi) in three cases. Results: The median time from diagnosis of the deep infection to complete healing in six patients averaged 22 weeks, while one patient developed sepsis and died one year later. The most common pathogens were staphylococcus epidermis and staphylococcus aureus; a total of 15 pathogens were found. The average number of revision operations before the infection was considered to have resolved completely was seven. Conclusion: The rate of deep infections was 7.2% among rheumatoid patients. Infections are challenging to treat and cause prolonged morbidity. Surgical debridement and systemic antibiotic therapy combined with Papineau grafting or a local muscle flap usually yielded successful results after postoperative deep infection of the sinus tarsi region in rheumatoid patients. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Fibular Lengthening for Malunited Ankle Fractures
Authors: Sinha Apurv , Sirikonda Siva , Giotakis Nikolaos , Walker Christopher 
Published: November 2008

Background: Malunited ankle fractures are uncommon. They produce symptoms of persistent pain, joint effusion, limitation of dorsiflexion and eventually lead to ankle arthritis. We feel that correction of the ankle alignment can improve the final outcome and present our results. Materials and Method: From May 2004 to April 2006, seven patients with a malunited fibular fracture aged 25 to 62 years (male:female ratio, 5:2) were treated in our institute. All patients were referred for persistent pain. The delay between injury and the operative intervention was 3 to 16 months. All patients were assessed with a clinical examination, AOFAS ankle hindfoot score and plain radiographs. A transverse fibular osteotomy was made just above the ankle joint and below the tibiofibular syndesmosis. A tricortical iliac bone graft and a lateral fibular plate were applied. Results: Fibular length and restoration of the ankle mortise was successful in all the cases. All patients showed radiological evidence of bony union on followup. The average AOFAS score was 82 (pain: 31, function: 41, and alignment: 10). Patients were followed up for an average period of 11 (range, 6 to 24) months after the surgery. Conclusion: We present our early experience with a simpler fibular osteotomy to correct the ankle joint alignment for malunited fibular fractures which was successful at short-term followup. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Novel Engineered Ion Channel Provides Controllable Ion Permeability for Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules Coated with a Lipid Membrane
Authors: Battle Andrew R. , Valenzuela Stella M. , Mechler Adam , Nichols Ryan J. , Praporski Slavica , di Maio Isabelle L. , Islam Hedayetul , Girard‐Egrot Agnès P. , Cornell Bruce A. , Prashar Jog , Caruso Frank , Martin Lisandra L. , Martin Donald K. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe development of nanostructured microcapsules based on a biomimetic lipid bilayer membrane (BLM) coating of poly(sodium styrenesulfonate) (PSS)/poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) polyelectrolyte hollow microcapsules is reported. A novel engineered ion channel, gramicidin (bis‐gA), incorporated into the lipid membrane coating provides a functional capability to control transport across the microcapsule wall. The microcapsules provide transport and permeation for drug‐analog neutral species, as well as positively and negatively charged ionic species. This controlled transport can be tuned for selective release biomimetically by controlling the gating of incorporated bis‐gA ion channels. This system provides a platform for the creation of “smart” biomimetic delivery vessels for the effective and selective therapeutic delivery and targeting of drugs.
Supported Lipid Bilayer on Nanocrystalline Diamond: Dual Optical and Field‐Effect Sensor for Membrane Disruption
Authors: Ang Priscilla Kailian , Loh Kian Ping , Wohland Thorsten , Nesladek Milos , Van Hove Emile 
Published: November 2008

AbstractIt is demonstrated that a good biomimetic model lipid membrane with dynamic fluidity can be established on optically transparent nanocrystalline diamond (OTND) with surface roughness below 10 nm. Maigainin II, an antimicrobial peptide, is chosen to investigate the permeation of artificial bacterial membranes constructed on OTND. Due to the unique combination of optical transparency and highly sensitive surface conducting channel, intrinsic OTND affords the possibility of dual‐mode sensing based on optical and field effect properties. This opens up new possibilities for making integrated biomolecule–semiconductor microdevices, or sensors where the binding of biomolecules can be tracked using confocal microscopy whilst the associated changes in charge density during membrane perforation can be tracked using the space charge effect in the semiconductor. Such a synergistic approach may provide a powerful methodology for the screening of specific bactericidal activity on biomimetic membrane systems.
Generation of Monodisperse Mesoporous Silica Microspheres with Controllable Size and Surface Morphology in a Microfluidic Device
Authors: Lee Inho , Yoo Yeonshick , Cheng Zhengdong , Jeong Hae‐Kwon 
Published: November 2008

AbstractA one‐step in situ method, termed microfluidic diffusion‐induced self‐assembly, for the synthesis of monodisperse ordered mesoporous silica microspheres, is reported. The method combines microfluidic generation of uniform droplets and subsequent in situ rapid solvent diffusion‐induced self‐assembly within the microfluidic channel. The mesoporous silica microspheres prepared in this way reveal well‐ordered 2D hexagonal mesostructures with unprecedented corrugated surface morphology of disordered mesopores that are larger than 15 nm. It is speculated that the formation of an interfacial subphase and rapid diffusion of solvent to oil are attributed to the formation of the unique surface morphology. It is also shown that the surface morphology and the particle size of the mesoporous silica microspheres can be systematically controlled by adjusting fluidic conditions.
Temperature responsive pore‐filled membranes based on a BSA/poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) hydrogel
Authors: Zhang R. , Bowyer A. , Eisenthal R. , Hubble J. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractA temperature‐sensitive hydrogel based on a copolymer of BSA and poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) has been synthesized using carbodiimide chemistry. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed primary complex formation between carbodiimide‐activated carboxylic acids on the protein with protein amino groups. As a result of temperature‐induced conformational changes in PNIPAAm grafted onto the protein backbone, these protein hydrogels show significant morphological changes in response to temperature. The structural changes of the gels in response to temperature were assessed using scanning electron microscopy, and the effect of temperature on their balance of hydrophobicity was found using turbidity measurements. Composite pore‐filled membranes formed by impregnating glass fiber filters with the polymer mixture prior to gelation were used to determine permeability changes in response to temperature using both low (riboflavin) and intermediate (lysozyme) molecular weight diffusates. Clear correlation was found between changes in morphology, turbidity, and gel permeability as the gel temperature was increased from 24–37°C. In the case of permeability studies, significant transport of lysozyme only occurred at temperatures above the lower transition temperature of the hydrogel, suggesting the gel was acting as a mechanical “valve'' to control flux. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 27:27–34, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20113