bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Patients With a History of Oronasal Fistula Repair Exhibit Lower Oral Health Measured With Patient-Centric Outcomes Measures
Authors: Fritz Alyssa , Jodeh Diana S. , Qamar Fatima , Cray James J. , Rottgers S. Alex 
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Oronasal fistulae following palatoplasty may affect patients’ quality of life by impacting their ability to eat, speak, and maintain oral hygiene. We aimed to quantify the impact of previous oronasal fistula repair on patients’ quality of life using patient-reported outcome psychometric tools. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 8- to 9-year-old patients with cleft palate and/or lip was completed. Patients who had a cleft team clinic between September 2018 and August 2019 were recruited. Participants were divided into 2 groups (no fistula, prior fistula repair). Differences in the individual CLEFT-Q and Child Oral Health Impact Profile-Short Form 19 (COHIP-SF 19) Oral Health scores between the 2 groups were evaluated using a multivariate analysis controlling for Veau classification and syndromic diagnosis. Results: Sixty patients with a history of cleft palate were included. Forty-two (70%) patients had an associated cleft lip. Thirty-two (53.3%) patients had no history of fistula and 28 (46.7%) patients had undergone a fistula repair. CLEFT-Q Dental, Jaw, and Speech Function were all higher in patients without a history of a fistula repair; however, none of these differences were statistically significant. The COHIP-SF 19 Oral Health score demonstrated a significantly lower score in the fistula group, indicating poorer oral health ( P = .05). Conclusions: One would expect that successful repair of a fistula would result in improved function and patient satisfaction, but the consistent trend toward lower CLEFT-Q scores and significantly increased COHIP-SF 19 Oral Health scores in our study group suggests that residual effects linger and that the morbidity of a fistula may not be completely treated with a secondary correction.
A preoperative modified Allen test result may be associated with long term mortality after hemodialysis access construction
Authors: Yadav Reshabh , Gerrickens Michael WM , van Kuijk Sander MJ , Teijink Joep AW , Scheltinga Marc RM 
Published: December 2020

Background: The modified Allen test (MAT) is a simple bedside method determining collateral hand circulation prior to hemodialysis (HD) access surgery. Hand ischemia as reflected by low systolic finger pressures ( Pdig) is associated with high mortality rates in severe kidney disease (CKD) patients. Aim of the present study was to assess a possible relation between absolute finger pressure drop (∂ Pdig) during a preoperative MAT and mortality after a first HD access construction. Methods: Pdig (systolic pressure, mmHg) was measured using digital plethysmography following compression of radial and ulnar arteries in CKD patients just before access surgery between January 2009 and December 2018 in one center. The greatest ∂ Pdig of both index fingers was used for analysis. Cardiovascular and overall mortality were assessed during the following 4 years using the ERA-EDTA classification system (codes 11, 14–16, 18, 22–26, 29). Cox regression analysis determined possible associations between ∂ Pdig and mortality. Results: Complete data sets were available in 108 patients (male n = 71; age 70 years ±12; mean follow up (FU) 1.6 years ±0.1; FU index 99% ±1). Median ∂ Pdig was 31 mmHg (range 0–167 mmHg). Patients having cardiovascular disease (CV+) demonstrated higher ∂ Pdig values (CV+ 44 ± 5 mmHg vs CV− 29 ± 3 mmHg, p = 0.012). A total of 26 patients (24%) died during FU (CV+ death, n = 16; 62%). For each 10 mmHg ∂ Pdig increase, overall mortality increased by 10%, and CV+ mortality by 15% (overall mortality: HR 1.10 [1.01–1.22], p = 0.048; CV+ mortality: 1.15 [1.03–1.29], p = 0.017). Following correction for age, ∂ Pdig remained associated with CV+ mortality (HR 1.13 [1.00–1.26], p = 0.043). Conclusions: A large drop in systolic finger pressure during a preoperative MAT is related to mortality after primary HD access surgery. The role of this potential novel risk parameter requires confirmation in a larger population.
A randomized controlled trial of a web-based personalized feedback intervention targeting frequent indoor tanning bed users: Engagement, acceptability, and preliminary behavioral outcomes
Authors: Stapleton Jerod L , Ray Anne E , Glenn Shannon D , McLouth Laurie E , Parmar Veenat , Manne Sharon L 
Published: December 2020

Frequent indoor tanning bed use is an established public health concern, yet research on tanning cessation interventions for frequent tanners is lacking. We describe the protocol for a brief, web-based tanning behavior change intervention and present evidence that it is acceptable and engaging to frequent indoor tanners. Lower tanning rates were not observed among participants receiving the intervention in a randomized controlled trial but participants’ interest in changing tanning increased. This intervention could be a useful approach to increasing frequent tanners’ interest in behavior change and openness to engaging within a more intensive, multi-component tanning cessation program. Trial Registration: NCT03448224 Clinical Trials.gov ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03448224?cond=NCT03448224&draw=2&rank=1 )
Comprehensive Bioinformatics Analysis of Key Methyltransferases and Demethylases for Histone Lysines in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zheng Yang , Tang Lili , Chen Guojiang , Liu Ziling 
Published: December 2020

Background & Aims: Methylation of lysines on histones, controlled by various methyltransferases and demethylases, is an important component of epigenetic modifications, and abnormal regulation of such enzymes serves as common events in hepatocellular carcinoma. We determined to identify important methyltransferases and demethylases that might regulate the development of hepatocellular carcinoma by bioinformatics. Methods: The Oncomine and UALCAN databases were used to retrieve mRNA expression levels of histone lysine methyltransferases and demethylases in hepatocellular carcinoma. Data analyses of genetic alterations, mainly mutations and copy number alterations, were performed on the cBioportal platform. Protein-protein interactions were established in the STRING database. Results: mRNA expression of 8 genes correlated with clinical staging and grading, whereas 4 genes indicated a role in the prognosis, all co-expressed with SEDB1 and WHSC1. Genetically, 12 genes showing an alteration rate higher than 5% were identified, and only 3 were indicative of prognosis. Copy number gains in ASH1L, SETDB1, and KDM5B might partially contribute to the upregulation of their mRNA expression. The close relationship of mutations in MLL2/MLL3 with driver gene mutations in hepatocellular carcinoma provided a rationale for further investigation. Conclusions: We identified 11 methyltransferases and demethylases for major histone lysines that might be promising research targets in the pathogenesis, development, and prediction of prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma using bioinformatics.
Video-Assisted Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement Through Right Anterior Minithoracotomy for All Comers With Aortic Valve Disease
Authors: Bakhtiary Farhad , El-Sayed Ahmad Ali , Amer Mohamed , Salamate Saad , Sirat Sami , Borger Michael A. 
Published: December 2020

Objective Right anterior minithoracotomy is a promising technique for aortic valve replacement and has shown excellent results in terms of mortality and morbidity. Against this background, we analyzed our institutional experience in this technique during the last 3 years. Methods Between April 2017 and March 2019, 513 consecutive all comers with aortic valve disease underwent video-assisted minimally invasive aortic valve replacement through a 3-cm skin incision as right anterior minithoracotomy at our institution. A camera and automatic fastener technology were used for the valve implantation in all patients. Clinical data were prospectively entered into our institutional database. Results Cardiopulmonary bypass time accounted for 68 ± 24 min and the myocardial ischemic time 38 ± 12 minutes. Thirty-day mortality and overall mortality was 0.4% (2 patients) and 1.4% (7 patients), respectively. Postoperative cerebrovascular events were noted in 8 patients (1.5%). Intensive care stay and hospital stay were 2 ± 2 and 9 ± 7 days, respectively. Pacemaker implantation, injury of the right internal mammary artery, and conversion to full sternotomy were noted in 7 patients (1.4%), 3 patients (0.6%), and 1 patient (0.2%), respectively. Paravalvular leak need to intervention was noted in 2 patients (0.4%). Rethoracotomy rate was 2% (11 patients). Transient postoperative dialysis was necessary for 14 patients (3%). Conclusions Video-assisted minimally invasive aortic valve replacement through the right anterior minithoracotomy is a safe approach and yields excellent outcomes in high-volume centers. The use of a camera and automatic fastener technology facilitates this procedure.
Preliminary experience with 088 large bore intracranial catheters during stroke thrombectomy
Authors: Nogueira Raul G , Mohammaden Mahmoud H , Al-Bayati Alhamza R , Frankel Michael R , Haussen Diogo C 
Published: December 2020

Background and purpose Thromboaspiration technology continues to evolve at an accelerated pace with increasing availability of larger and more navigable devices. Herein, we provide our initial experience with the intracranial navigation of a large-bore (.088" inner diameter) catheters during mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Methods Retrospective review of consecutive large vessel occlusion stroke patients in whom a TracStar™ or Zoom 88™ (Imperative Care, Campbell, CA) large-bore catheters were utilized in MT. The primary outcome was successful reperfusion (eTICI2b-3) at the end of the procedure. Safety measures included procedural complications and rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. Results Five patients (age,∼50–85 years; baseline NIHSS,17-23) were treated. The .088" catheters were used as the primary tool for contact aspiration in two patients (distal basilar artery and proximal MCA occlusions) with complete thrombus ingestion (eTICI3) during the first pass. In two patients, the .088" catheter was used for flow control where it was placed in the distal M1-segment of a patient with M2 occlusion treated with a combination of stent-retriever and .070" aspiration catheter and in the proximal M1 in a patient with distal M1 occlusion treated with .071" aspiration catheter resulting in eTICI3 reperfusion in both cases. In the fifth patient, the .088" catheter was navigated into the cavernous ICA to support .071" aspiration catheter treatment of an M2 occlusion resulting in eTCI2b67 reperfusion. Procedural duration ranged between 14 and 33 minutes. There were no adverse events. Conclusion Intracranial navigation of .088" large-bore catheters in MT appears technically feasible and safe. Larger prospective studies are warranted.
Safety and efficacy of extended dosing intervals of denosumab in patients with solid cancers and bone metastases: a retrospective study
Authors: Abousaud Aseala I. , Barbee Meagan S. , Davis Christine C. , Caulfield Sarah E. , Wang Zeyuan , Boykin Alexa , Carthon Bradley C. , Gogineni Keerthi 
Published: December 2020

Aim: More than half of patients with breast, lung, or prostate cancer who have bone metastases have evidence of skeletal-related events (SREs). Denosumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody that binds to and neutralizes receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) on osteoblasts and their precursors. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved dose of denosumab is 120 mg every 4 weeks; however, other schedules have been used in practice for patient convenience. Evidence for the safety and efficacy of alternative dosing intervals is lacking. Patient & Methods: Adult patients with solid cancers and bone metastases who received at least two doses of denosumab 120 mg were reviewed. Patients were grouped based on an average denosumab dosing interval of <5 weeks (short-interval) versus 5–11 weeks (medium-interval) versus ⩾12 weeks (long-interval). The primary outcome was the time to first SRE while on denosumab between the short- and medium-interval groups. The secondary outcomes were overall survival (OS), efficacy comparisons between the other groups, and safety events. Results: There was no significant difference in median time to first SRE between the short- and medium-interval denosumab groups [33.2 versus 28.4 months, hazard ratio (HR): 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.66–1.92, p = 0.91] or the medium- and long-interval dosing groups (28.4 versus 32.2 months, HR: 1.15, 95% CI: 0.66–2.01, p = 0.62). Median OS was not found to differ significantly between any of the groups. There were significantly more hospitalizations in the short-interval dosing group than the other groups (55.2% versus 33.8% versus 30.4%, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Extending denosumab dosing intervals does not appear to negatively impact time to first SRE and is associated with fewer hospitalizations in real-world patients with solid cancers and bone metastases.
Diabetes and Reactive Balance: Quantifying Stepping Thresholds With a Simple Spring Scale to Measure Fall-Risk in Ambulatory Older Adults
Authors: Rosenblatt Noah J. , Young Jennifer , Andersen Ryley , Wu. Stephanie C. , Crews Ryan T. 
Published: December 2020

Background: Fall-risk assessments for patients with diabetes fail to consider reactive responses to balance loss. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of using a simple clinical tool to evaluate the impact of diabetes and fall history on reactive balance in older adults. Methods: We recruited 72 older adults with and without diabetes. Postural perturbations were applied by a waist-mounted spring scale. Stepping thresholds (STs) in the anterior and posterior directions were defined as the lowest spring-loads that induced a step. Balance was assessed via the National Institutes of Health Toolbox Standing Balance Test, and lower extremity sensation was assessed using vibratory perception threshold and Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments. Fall history over the past year was self-reported. Cox regressions and analysis of variance were used to compare hazard rates for stepping and observed STs between groups. Results: Anterior STs were elicited in 42 subjects and posterior STs in 65 subjects. Hazard rates for posterior ST were significantly affected by diabetes, with greater hazards for fallers with diabetes versus control fallers and nonfallers, after accounting for balance and sensory loss. For those who stepped, ST was lower in the posterior direction for the diabetes group. Additionally, anterior but not posterior ST was lower in all fallers vs all nonfallers. Conclusions: The waist-mounted spring scale is a clinically implementable device that can assess ST in older adults with diabetes. Using the device, we demonstrated that ST was affected by diabetes and could potentially serve as a fall-risk factor independent of balance or sensory loss.
Epidemiology of Maxillo-Facial Trauma During COVID-19 Lockdown: Reports From the Hub Trauma Center in Milan
Authors: Canzi Gabriele , De Ponti Elena , Corradi Federica , Bini Roberto , Novelli Giorgio , Bozzetti Alberto , Sozzi Davide 
Published: December 2020

Study Design: Retrospective study. Objective: Following SARS-CoV-2 pandemic break-out a lockdown period for the population and a reorganization of the Health System were needed. Hub-function Centers for time-dependent diseases were identified and Niguarda Hospital (Milan) was selected as main Regional Trauma Center. The purpose of our study is to report the experience of Niguarda Maxillofacial Trauma Team during this period, pointing out epidemiological changes in the presentation of trauma in comparison to the previous 3 years. Methods: Two hundred and sixteen patients were admitted to the Emergency Department from 8th March 2020 to 8th May 2020. One hundred and eighty-one had a diagnosis of Major Trauma and 36 had also facial fractures; 35 patients had isolated facial fractures. Data were compared to the activity during the same period in 2017-2019 and statistical analysis was carried out concerning demographic and clinical characteristics, trauma dynamics and positivity to COVID-19. Results: Cumulative curves of patients admitted because of Major Trauma describe a superimposable linear trend in years 2017-2019, while 2020 shows an increase from April 16th. Average age and number of more severe patients were higher than previous years. Epidemiological changes concerned road accidents, accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists, interpersonal violence, suicide attempts and domestic accidents. The incidence of facial fractures was confirmed through years and, according to its measured severity, 75% of patients required management. COVID-19 positivity without systemic symptoms didn’t influence the type of treatment. Conclusion: The COVID-19 lockdown offers a unique opportunity to study the reversal epidemiological effects on trauma.
Time-averaged disease activity of rheumatoid arthritis associated with long-term bone mineral density changes
Authors: Hsu Chung-Yuan , Chen Jia-Feng , Su Yu-Jih , Chen Ying-Chou , Lai Han-Ming , Yu Shan-Fu , He Hsiao-Ru , Cheng Tien-Tsai 
Published: December 2020

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with poor bone mineral density (BMD). We designed the current study owing to the lack of long-term prospective studies regarding whether a high disease activity leads to increased bone loss. Methods: We have continually enrolled patients with RA. According to the average disease activity score in 28 joints based on the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) during follow-up, the patients were classified into remission, low disease activity, and moderate or high disease activity groups. Patients were examined with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at baseline and after 3 years of follow-up. BMD changes were compared among the groups. Results: We have studied 477 patients. Overall BMD was significantly reduced from baseline to the 3-year follow-up ( p < 0.05). After stratifying according to the time-averaged DAS28-ESR levels and use of anti-osteoporosis treatment (AOT), the BMD values of the femur and spine significantly increased in patients in the remission group with AOT. The BMD changes of different DAS28-ESR patients were further compared using the generalized estimation equation model. For the patients on AOT, the negative change in femoral BMD values of the moderate or high activity group was significant when compared with the remission group with positive BMD changes (regression coefficient, –0.038; 95% confidence interval, –0.055 to –0.021). Conclusion: For RA patients, if remission is achieved, AOT can better improve BMD, especially in the femur. In addition, moderate or high disease activity will lead to significant bone loss; therefore, disease activity must be actively controlled.
Dynamic scapulohumeral rhythm: Comparison between healthy shoulders and those with large or massive rotator cuff tear
Authors: Kozono Naoya , Takeuchi Naohide , Okada Takamitsu , Hamai Satoshi , Higaki Hidehiko , Shimoto Takeshi , Ikebe Satoru , Gondo Hirotaka , Senju Takahiro , Nakashima Yasuharu 
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Assessment of scapular kinematics and the dynamics of the scapulohumeral rhythm (SHR) would be important for understanding pathologies of the shoulder and to inform treatment. Our aim in this study was to evaluate the SHR and scapular kinematics in patients with a rotator cuff tear (RCT), compared to a control group with healthy shoulders using image-matching techniques. Materials and Methods: The shoulder kinematics of large or massive RCT patients were evaluated and compared to a control group with healthy shoulders. Radiographic surveillance was performed throughout the full range of external rotation and scapular plane abduction. Computed tomography imaging of the shoulder complex was performed, with three-dimensional image reconstruction and matching to the radiographs to measure three-dimensional positions and orientations. SHR and angular values of the scapula were measured. Results: Scapular external rotation in the late phase of external rotation movement was greater in the RCT group than in the control group ( p < 0.05), but with no difference in the SHR. During scapular plane abduction, there were significant differences in SHR, scapular posterior tilt and scapular upward rotation between the RCT and control group ( p < 0.05). Conclusions: Regarding clinical relevance, this study clarified the differences of SHR and angular values of the scapula between the RCT and control group. These results underline the importance of assessment the SHR and scapular kinematics in individuals with a RCT. RCT is associated with specific compensation in the kinematics of the scapula and SHR during external rotation and scapular plane abduction, which could inform treatment.
Family Resilience and Connection Is Associated with Dental Caries in US Children
Authors: Burgette J.M. 
Published: December 2020

Introduction: The impact of family resilience and connection on children’s oral health has not been well-documented in the published literature. Objectives: This study examined the association between family resilience and connection and the probability of a child having caregiver-reported dental caries using a nationally representative sample. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of the 2016 National Survey of Children’s Health was performed on US children ages 6 to 17 y. Family resilience and connection was assessed using a 6-point index and analyzed as a 3-level categorical variable. Caregivers reported whether their child had “decayed teeth or cavities” during the past 12 mo. Logistic regression was performed controlling for child (age, gender, race/ethnicity, insurance, preventive dental use) and family (education and federal poverty level) characteristics. Results: Among the 35,167 children in the sample, 10.4% children had caregiver-reported dental caries. The prevalence of dental caries decreased in a graded fashion with increasing levels of family resilience and connection (12.5%, 10.5%, and 8.8%, respectively; P < 0.001). As compared with children with the lowest level of family resilience and connection, those with the highest level had lower odds of caregiver-reported dental caries after adjusting for child and family covariates (adjusted odds ratio = 0.63; 95% confidence interval = 0.58, 0.69). Conclusion: Using a nationally representative sample, children living in families with higher levels of resilience and connection had a significantly lower odds of caregiver-reported dental caries. Policies and programs that increase family resilience and connection have the potential to decrease dental caries in school-aged children. Knowledge Transfer Statement: This work suggests an association between family resilience/connection and dental caries in school-aged children. Further work is required to determine the degree to which addressing these constructs might impact child dental caries.