bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Healing Pattern Classification for Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures after Posterior Short-segment Fixation
Authors: Liang Changxiang , Liu Guihua , Liang Guoyan , Zheng Xiaoqing , Yin Dong , Xiao Dan , Zeng Shixing , Cai Honghua , Chang Yunbing 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Thoracolumbar burst fractures can be treated with posterior short-segment fixation. However, no classification can help to estimate whether the healed vertebral body will have sufficient stability after implant removal. We aimed to develop a Healing Pattern Classification (HPC) to evaluate the stability of the healed vertebra based on cavity size and location.Methods: Fifty-two thoracolumbar burst fracture patients treated with posterior short-segmental fixation without fusion and followed up for an average of 3.2 years were retrospectively studied. The HPC was divided into 4 types: type I - no cavity; type II - a small cavity with or without the violation of one endplate; type III - a large cavity with or without the violation of one endplate; and type IV - a burst cavity with the violation of both endplates or the lateral cortical shell. The intraobserver and interobserver intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of the HPC were assessed. The demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes of the cohort were compared between the stable group (types I and II) and the unstable group (types III and IV). Logistic regression was conducted to evaluate risk factors for unstable healing.Results: The intraobserver and interobserver ICCs of the HPC were 0.86 (95% CI=0.74-0.90) and 0.77 (95% CI=0.59-0.86), respectively. While the unstable healing group (types III and IV) accounted for 59.6% of the patients, most of these patients were asymptomatic. The preoperative Load Sharing Classification (LSC) comminution score may predict the occurrence of unstable healing (OR=8.4, 95% CI=2.4-29.7).Conclusions: A reliable classification for assessing the stability of a healed vertebra was developed. With type I and II healing, the vertebra is considered stable, and the implant can be removed. With type III healing, the vertebra may have healing potential, but the implant should not be removed unless type II healing is achieved. With type IV healing, the vertebra is considered extremely unstable, and instrumentation should be maintained. Assessing the LSC comminution score preoperatively may help to predict unstable healing after surgery.
Asymmetrical fatiguing of the gluteus maximus muscles in the elite short-track female skaters.
Authors: Konieczny Mariusz , Pakosz Paweł , Witkowski Mateusz 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background According to research, fast skating on short distances increases functional asymmetry of leg muscles. As has been proven in many sporting disciplines, this asymmetry can increase the risk of injury. The aim of the study was to analyze the level of right and left fatigue asymmetry of gluteus maximus muscle in elite skaters on a short track and to compare this phenomenon to a control group. The muscles were chosen deliberately, due to their influence in maintaining the right position during training on ice.Methods The experiment compared a group of eight members of the Polish Women’s National Team in short track with a group of eight non-training people. The subjects did the Biering-Sorensen test, in which sEMG (surface electromyography) signal frequency was measured in the gluteus maximus muscles during an isometric contraction. Fatigue slopes were analyzed with a ANOVA with repeated measures. In the skaters, the fatigue differed between the right and the left gluteus maximus muscles. All the skaters had higher fatigue in the right leg. This phenomenon was not observed in the non-training subjects, who on average had similar fatigue in both legs. Results Results showed that the right and the left muscles of the skaters in the experimental group differed in fatigue, but this difference was non-significant in the control group.The subjects from the two groups did not differ in the fatigue of the left muscle, they did in the fatigue of the right muscle. The elite speed-track skaters had higher fatigue in the right muscle than the non-training subjects.Conclusions Training should thus be planned in a way that minimizes the risk of causing muscle fatigue asymmetry in skaters despite the typically asymmetrical muscle work during training on ice and competition, thus new training protocols should be developed or considered to decrease that asymmetry.Trial registration The tests were previously approved by the Bioethical Commission of the Chamber of Physicians in Opole. (Resolution No. 235 of 13 December 2016).
Complications of bone transport technique using the Ilizarov method in the lower extremity: a retrospective analysis of 282 consecutive cases over 10 years
Authors: Liu Yanshi , Yushan Maimaiaili , Liu Zhenhui , Liu Jialin , Ma Chuang , Ahemaitijiang Yusufu 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: The treatment of large bone defects in lower limbs is a serious challenge for orthopedic surgeons and patients. The bone transport technique using the Ilizarov method has become the main treatment option for the reconstruction of bone defect. However, inevitable difficulties and complications related to bone transport technique have been reported by many studies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and complications of bone transport technique using Ilizarov method in the treatment of bone defect of lower extremity.Methods: The study was conducted on 282 patients who underwent bone transport procedures using Ilizarov method at our institution from January 2007 to June 2017. Patient’s demographic data, complications and clinical outcomes at minimum of two years follow-up were collected and retrospectively analyzed. All difficulties that related to bone transport were documented according to Paley’s classification. The clinical outcomes were evaluated using Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov criteria (ASAMI) at last clinical visit. Results: There were 243 male and 39 females with a mean age of 40 years (range 18-65 years). The mean defect was 6.56±2.15 cm, whereas single level transport in 221 cases and double level transport in 61 cases. There were 189 problems, 166 obstacles and 406 complications (257 minor and 149 major complications), and the average complication rate per patients consists of 0.91 minor and 0.53 major complications. The top five complications were pin-site infection (65.96%), axial deviation (40.78%), joint stiffness (23.76%), soft tissue incarceration (22.34%) and delayed union of the docking site (13.48%).The ASAMI bony result was excellent in 233 patients, good in 32, fair in 5 and poor in 12. The ASAMI functional result was excellent in 136 patients, good in 88, fair in 47, poor in 11.Conclusion: Bone transport is a reliable method for reconstruction of bone defects in the femur and tibia. Awareness of predictable complications is beneficial to prevent or early detection of the expected complication which can improve the risk-benefit balance.
Blinding in electric current stimulation in subacute neglect patients with current densities of 0.8 A/m²: A cross-over pilot study
Authors: Gorsler Anna , Grittner Ulrike , Külzow Nadine , Rackoll Torsten 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Objective Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising adjuvant technique to improve standard care neglect therapy in patients suffering from stroke. Current densities in tDCS are modeled by tissue distribution in the brain. Therefore, we hypothesized that higher current densities are needed in aged stroke population to counteract age related brain volume loss. Here it is still unresolved whether blinding of participants can be achieved. Our aim was to test whether stroke patients with left-sided hemineglect are able to differentiate beyond chance active tDCS from sham stimulation at a current density of 0.8 A/m². Therefore, we investigated 12 early subacute stroke patients with left-sided hemineglect in a cross-over design with two stimulation settings (active/sham stimulation in randomized order). Stimulation was performed simultaneous to standard care neglect therapy with 0.8 A/m² and progress of neglect symptomatology was monitored during inpatient rehabilitation.Results Our sample exhibited higher odds of correct guessing an active tDCS condition compared to wrongly judge an active tDCS condition as sham stimulation (Odds ratio 10.00, 95%CI: 0.65 - 154.40, p = 0.099). Therefore, we must question the feasibility of blinding success in studies with current densities of 0.8 A/m². Assessment in multisession protocols still warrants further investigation.
Life-conditions and anthropometric variables as risk factors for caries in children in Ladakh: A cross- sectional survey.
Authors: Cagetti MariaGrazia , Cocco Fabio , Calzavara Ezio , Augello Davide , Zagpoo Phunchok , Campus Guglielmo Giuseppe 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Backgrounds

The aim of this survey was to evaluate the severity of dental caries among Ladakh children and its association with anthropometric and background variables.

Methods

This cross‐sectional epidemiological survey was conducted on Ladakh schoolchildren divided into four age groups (<6, ≥6<11, ≥11≤14 and >14 years of age). A total of 1474 schoolchildren (607 males 41.18% and 867 females 58.82%) were examined. Actual dental caries prevalence (dt/DT) and gingival bleeding were recorded by four calibrated examiners. An ad hoc questionnaire evaluated general health, eating habits, oral hygiene and the self-perception of oral conditions. Height, weight, waist circumference, heart-rate and oxygen-saturation were also collected. Responses to questionnaire items were treated as categorical or ordinal variables. Relation between children’s caries data, gingival bleeding, gender, Body Mass Index (BMI) following the International Obesity Task Force, waist circumference and questionnaire items were assessed using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Conditional ordinal logistic regression was used to analyse associations among caries severity, gender, BMI, waist circumference, oxygen saturation and questionnaire. A forward stepwise logistic regression procedure was also assessed to estimate the ORs of gingival bleeding prevalence and the covariates derived from examination or questionnaire.

Results

Caries was almost ubiquitarian with only 10.04% of caries-free children (dt/DT=0). Caries severity, in both primary and permanent dentitions was statistically significantly related to gender, waist circumference, BMI, oral hygiene frequency and self-reported chewing problems (p<0.01 in both dentitions). An increasing relative risk for caries in permanent dentition compared to caries-free subjects was observed in children with a low BMI (RRR=1.67, 95% CI=1.54/2.83 for subjects with 1-3 caries lesions and RRR=1.52, 95% CI=1.36/1.74 for subjects with more than 3 caries lesions); also children with reduced waist circumference had a higher relative risk to have 1-3 caries lesions (RRR=2.16, 95% CI=1.84 / 2.53) and an even higher risk to have more than 3 caries lesions (RRR=4.22, 95% CI=3.33 / 5.34).

Conclusion

A significant impact of untreated caries lesions was observed; low BMI values and reduced waist circumference showed to be the main caries risk predictors. Preventive and intervention programmes should be implemented to improve children's oral health living in Ladakh.
Enhancing the Lubricity of Gas-to-Liquid (GTL) Paraffinic Kerosene: Impact of the Additives on the Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Ababnah Hani , Mohamed Nasr , Choudhury Hanif , Zhang Lei Lei , Gani Rafiqul , McKay Gordon , Elbashir Nimir 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Synthetic paraffinic kerosene (SPK) is an ultra-clean fuel with low aromatic content and negligible quantities of sulfur compounds. Although, SPK has a good potential to replace the conventional fuel Jet A-1, it also has some deficiencies. One of them is the low lubricity compared to its conventional counterpart Jet A-1. To improve the lubricity of SPK, three selected additives have been mixed with SPK at different concentrations. The lubricity of the samples was determined experimentally and the samples that meet the industry specifications have been studied further. The effect of the additives on the physicochemical properties, such as, density, flash point, freezing point, viscosity, and heat content, were investigated. Linoleic acid was found to be an excellent lubricity improver even at a very low concentration and its negative impact on the other physicochemical properties was found to be insignificant. Ethyl oleate also demonstrated significant improvement in lubricity at low concentrations but had a negative impact on the fuel’s freezing point at high concentrations. Quinoline, at high concentrations, elevated the blend’s freezing point above the acceptable limits. In parallel to the experimental campaign, a pre-existing mathematical modelling tool was utilized to predict the properties of interest. The lubricity model was successfully introduced into the mathematical model in order to improve the capabilities of the model. Linoleic acid sample showed the best improvement in lubricity of SPK with wear scar diameter of 417 µm; well below the ASTM D7566 maximum limit of 850 µm. The dual nature of this study facilitated the optimization of the physicochemical properties of the fuel samples.
MicroRNA-381 inhibits bladder cancer pathogenesis through directly controlling BMI1 and triggering the Rho/ROCK signaling pathway defect
Authors: Chen Dayin , Cheng Liang , Cao Huifeng , Liu Wensi 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background
Emerging evidence has noted the important participation of microRNAs (miRNAs) in several human diseases including cancer control. This research was launched to probe the function of miR-381 in bladder cancer (BCs) progression.
Methods
Aberrantly expressed miRNAs in BCs tissues were analyzed using miRNA microarrays. miR-381 expression in the bladder and paired tumor tissues, and in BCs and normal cell lines was determined. The target relationship between miR-381 and BMI1 was predicted online and validated through a luciferase assay. Gain-of-functions of miR-381 and BMI1 were performed to identify their functions on BCs cell behaviors as well as tumor growth in vivo.
Results
miR-381 was poor regulated in BCs tissues and cells. A higher miR-381 level indicates a better prognosis of patients with BCs. Artificial up-regulation of miR-381 inhibited proliferation, invasion, migration, resistance to apoptosis, and tumor formation ability of BCs cells. miR-381 directly binds to BMI1 expression. Overexpression of BMI1 partially blocked the tumor suppressing roles of miR-381 in cell malignancy and tumor growth. In addition, miR-381 led to decreased RhoA phosphorylation and ROCK2 activation, which were also reversed by BMI1.
Conclusion
The study evidenced that miR-381 may act as a beneficiary biomarker in BCs patients. Up-regulation of miR-381 could suppress BCs development both in vivo and in vitro through BMI1 down-regulation and the Rho/ROCK inactivation.
Implications of Intranasal Polyvalent Vaccination for Pulmonary Alveolar Macrophage and Neutrophil Functions in Calves
Authors: Gomes Renata , Batista Camila , Souza Fernando , Santos Kamila , Bertagnon Heloisa , Pituco Edviges , Ribeiro Claudia , Libera Alice Della 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Vaccines undoubtedly represent a promising and much needed approach to combatting infectious diseases, but there is also increasing evidence that they exert nonspecific effects, and these effects may be beneficial but also sometimes detrimental. Thus, here we sought to explore the effect of intranasal vaccination on the functions of pulmonary alveolar macrophages and neutrophils in calves of different ages.Results: Respiratory clinical signs and impaired microbicidal and phagocytic activities were observed for the alveolar neutrophils and vacuolized macrophages in the vaccinated calves compared with those in the unvaccinated calves, particularly at 15 days of age.Conclusions: Our results indicated that the use of some polyvalent attenuated and modified live virus vaccines in early stage of calves’ life, especially those under 15 days of age, should be restricted to farms in which the cattle are at a higher risk of contracting these viral infections, particularly considering the importance of alveolar macrophages and neutrophils against bacterial pathogens in a period of intense pulmonary challenge.
Preliminary establishment of a spinal stability scoring system for multiple myeloma
Authors: Yao Xingchen , Shi Xiangjun , Xu Ziyu , Tan Jie , Wei Yanzhe , Qi Lei , Zhou Zihao , Li Lihong , Du Xinru 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background

A spinal stability scoring system for multiple myeloma (MM) was established via evidence-based literature and expert advice, and it was used to evaluate spinal stability in multiple myeloma patients.
Methods

The Delphi method was used to establish an expert consensus and establish a spinal stability scoring system for multiple myeloma. The clinical data of 72 patients with multiple myeloma with spinal involvement in our hospital were retrospectively reviewed.
Results

The grading system included 6 first-level indicators and 29 second-class indicators; the 6 first-level indicators were the following: the position of the spinal lesions, the degree of pain, the number of segments involved in the spinal lesions, the changes in the spinal images, the complications and the neurological function. After weighting the significance of the indicators, the highest total score possible was 24; a score of 0–10 corresponded to stable, 11–17 corresponded to potentially unstable, and 18–24 corresponded to unstable.
Conclusion

The scoring system, which is based on the disease characteristics, typical symptoms and spinal imaging manifestations in multiple myeloma patients, can be used to guide clinicians in evaluating the spinal stability of MM patients and determining the spinal instability caused by multiple myeloma over time, thereby providing evidence for MM patients to choose protective interventions.
Trial registration:

As this was a retrospective study, it did not require ethical approval.
Outcome Comparison of Arthroscopic versus Mini-open Technique for Ankle Arthrodesis
Authors: Wang Junliang , GE WENPING , HU WENSHAN , LIN FENG , LIU YUJIE 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background

Ankle arthrodesis is considered to be the gold standard for the treatment of end-stage ankle diseases. At present, the commonly used methods of ankle arthrodesis include open ankle arthrodesis, arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis and mini-open ankle arthrodesis. The authors analyze and compare the clinical efficacy and related complications of arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis and mini-open ankle arthrodesis in the treatment of end-stage ankle disease.
Methods

From January 2007 to June 2018, 56 patents with end-stage ankle joint pathology were treated with arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis and mini-open ankle arthrodesis. There were 30 cases in arthroscopy group, including 19 males and 11 females with an average age of 49.6 years old (ranged, 32 to 71); while 26 cases in mini-open group, including 18 males and 8 females with an average age of 48.3 years old (ranged, 43 to 65). The operative time was calculated with use of computerized operative and anesthetic records. The pain visual analogue score (VAS), American Orthopedic Foot ༆ Ankle Society ankle and hind foot score (AOFAS), fusion rate, complications rate, length of hospital stay, operation time, and tourniquet time were compared between the two groups of patients.
Results

51 patients were followed up for 15–35 months (mean, 22.5 ± 1.5) months. The bony fusion was achieved in all patients. The average time to fusion was 12.4 weeks (range, 10–16 weeks). The VAS score 3 days post-operation was (6.37 ± 0.69) points in the arthroscopy group and (7.61 ± 1.05) points in the mini-open group, there was significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.05). The VAS score and AOFAS score between the two groups pre- and post-operation have statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). At the last follow-up, VAS score was (1.55 ± 0.57) in the arthroscopy group and (1.43 ± 0.73) in the mini-open group, and there was no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05). The AOFAS score was (85.32 ± 2.96) points in the arthroscopy group and (86.72 ± 3.05) points in the mini-open group, and there was no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05). Arthroscopic ankle fusion was associated with a shorter tourniquet time and shorter length of hospital stay compared to mini-open ankle fusion (P < 0.05); however, there was no significant difference between two groups in terms of operation time (P > 0.05). Wounds healing was satisfying during the follow-up in the arthroscopy group. But the wounds healing was delayed in two patients of the small incision group. All patients were satisfied with the surgery.
Conclusion

Arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis and mini-open ankle arthrodesis have satisfactory curative effect and fusion rate. Arthroscopic assisted ankle arthrodesis has more advantages, including small incision, less injury, and low morbidity.
The effect of particulate matter reduction by indoor air filter use on respiratory symptoms and lung function: A systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Park Hyung Jun , Lee Ho Young , Suh Chong Hyung , Kim Ho Cheol , Kim Hwan Cheol , Park Young-Jun , Lee Sei Won 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
BackgroundExposure to particulate matter (PM) is a key public health issue, but effective intervention has not yet been established. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis has been conducted to assess the relationship between the use of air filters, one of the most-studied interventions, and respiratory outcomes in patients with chronic respiratory disease.MethodsWe systemically reviewed intervention studies on PM using Pubmed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases up to September 2019. Studies that included data on PM level changes and respiratory symptoms or lung function in patients with respiratory diseases were eligible for inclusion. Effect estimates were quantified separately using the random-effects model.ResultsSeven studies were included in our study. Air filter use reduced indoor PM2.5 by 11.45 µg/m3 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.88–16.01 µg/m3). Air filter use improved predicted forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) by 3.60% (95% CI: 0.29–6.90%). Air filter use was not associated with a significant change in respiratory symptoms (odds ratio: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.62–1.08).ConclusionThe findings from this systematic review suggest that a role for air filter with respect to reduced indoor PM and increased lung function. Further studies in high density PM regions may provide additional information on this role.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO: on review ID 156258