bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Abnormality of spontaneous brain activities in patients with chronic neck and shoulder pain: A resting-state fMRI study
Authors: Yu Cheng-xin , Ji Ting-ting , Song Hao , Li Bo , Han Qiang , Li Liang , Zhuo Zhi-zheng 
Published: January 2017

Objectives Chronic gneck and shoulder pain (CNSP) is a common clinical symptom of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy. Several studies using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) have reported that most chronic pain diseases are accompanied by structural and functional changes in the brain. However, few rs-fMRI studies have examined CNSP. The current study investigated cerebral structural and functional changes in CNSP patients. Methods In total, 25 CNSP patients and 20 healthy volunteers participated in the study. 3D-T1W and rs-fMRI images were acquired. Voxel-based morphometry analysis was applied to structural images, and regional homogeneity (ReHo) was extracted from rs-fMRI. Statistical analysis was performed on post-processing images and ReHo parameter maps. Results The results revealed no significant differences in brain structure between the two groups. In the patient group, ReHo values were significantly increased in the bilateral middle frontal gyrus and decreased in the left insula, superior frontal gyrus, middle cingulate gyrus, supplementary motor area, right postcentral gyrus, and superior parietal lobule. Conclusions This initial structural and rs-fMRI study of CNSP revealed characteristic features of spontaneous brain activity of CNSP patients. These findings may be helpful for increasing our understanding of the neuropathology of CNSP.
Digestive and urologic hemorrhage after intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke: Data from a Chinese stroke center
Authors: Chang Hong , Wang Xiaojuan , Yang Xin , Song Haiqing , Qiao Yuchen , Liu Jia 
Published: January 2017

Objective Intravenous thrombolysis with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) is considered the most effective treatment method for AIS; however, it is associated with a risk of hemorrhage. We analyzed the risk factors for digestive and urologic hemorrhage during rt-PA therapy. Methods We retrospectively analyzed patients with AIS who underwent intravenous thrombolysis with rt-PA during a 5-year period in a Chinese stroke center. Data on the demographics, medical history, laboratory test results, and clinical outcomes were collected. Results 338 patients with AIS were eligible and included. Logistic regression multivariate analysis showed that gastric catheter was significantly correlated with digestive hemorrhage, while age and urinary catheter were significantly correlated with urologic hemorrhage. Most hemorrhagic events were associated with catheterization after 1 to 24 hours of rt-PA therapy. Conclusions In summary, gastric and urinary catheters were correlated with digestive and urologic hemorrhage in patients with AIS undergoing rt-PA therapy. Well-designed controlled studies with large samples are required to confirm our findings.
Biomechanical characteristics of skeletal muscles and associations between running speed and contraction time in 8- to 13-year-old children
Authors: Završnik Jernej , Pišot Rado , Šimunič Boštjan , Kokol Peter , Blažun Vošner Helena 
Published: January 2017

Objective To investigate associations between running speeds and contraction times in 8- to 13-year-old children. Method This longitudinal study analyzed tensiomyographic measurements of vastus lateralis and biceps femoris muscles’ contraction times and maximum running speeds in 107 children (53 boys, 54 girls). Data were evaluated using multiple correspondence analysis. Results A gender difference existed between the vastus lateralis contraction times and running speeds. The running speed was less dependent on vastus lateralis contraction times in boys than in girls. Analysis of biceps femoris contraction times and running speeds revealed that running speeds of boys were much more structurally associated with contraction times than those of girls, for whom the association seemed chaotic. Conclusion Joint category plots showed that contraction times of biceps femoris were associated much more closely with running speed than those of the vastus lateralis muscle. These results provide insight into a new dimension of children’s development.
Total intravenous anesthesia produces outcomes superior to those with combined intravenous–inhalation anesthesia for laparoscopic gynecological surgery at high altitude
Authors: Xu Rui , Zhou Shuqin , Yang Jin , Li Haiyan , Zhang Qingguo , Zhang Guohong , Xu Shiyuan , Peng Qing 
Published: January 2017

Objective We compared efficacy and adverse outcomes following totally intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) versus combined intravenous–inhalation anesthesia (CIVIA) on hemodynamics and postoperative recovery following laparoscopic gynecological (LG) surgery at high altitudes. Methods We enrolled 80 ASA I or II patients scheduled for LG surgery and randomly assigned them to TIVA with propofol (group P, n = 40) or CIVIA with isoflurane (group I, n = 40). Mean arterial pressure, heart rate, pulse oxygen saturation, and partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide were measured at various time points. Outcome measures were interval to spontaneous ventilation, eye opening, return to consciousness, extubation, operating room duration. Intraoperative awareness and postoperative nausea/vomiting were assessed at follow-up. Results No differences in hemodynamic parameters were detected in either group. Group P had a significantly shorter postoperative anesthetic recovery time and lower incidence of postoperative nausea/vomiting. Conclusion TIVA is superior to CIVIA for GL surgery at high altitudes.
The Solubility of Polyimides in Polar Aprotic Solvents
Authors: Suleiman-Rosado David , Hinkley Jeffrey A. 
Published: January 2017

Activity coefficients and Gibbs free energies of mixing were calculated for aromatic polyimides in various polar aprotic solvents. Group additivity approaches were used to derive approximate solubility parameters for the polymers. Free energies of mixing were found to be negative, and limiting activity coefficients were indicative of very strong solvating forces. Contrary to experiment, these results would predict complete miscibility. Two explanations are proposed for these findings: (i) a single cohesive energy density parameter may not properly characterize specific interactions; and (ii) even nominally amorphous samples may contain various degrees of crystalline-like order which provide additional free energy differences.
A Multi Fuelled Cyclone Combustor
Authors: O'Doherty T. , Morgan D.J. , Syred N. 
Published: January 2017

The paper outlines a series of tests carried out on a prototype 1.5 MW vertical cyclone combustor with integral ash removal which removes in excess of 80% of the ash. For high calorific value fuels such as coal the system is run fuel rich to avoid slagging. The low calorific value exhaust gases are passed via a transfer duct into an inverted swirl burner/furnace arrangement where final burnout of the gasified products occur. The sytem, designed to utilise a wide range of solid fuels was evaluated for a range of biomass materials and coal. The coal work investigated the effects of crushed (dm ≃ 250 μm) and pulverised (dm ≃ 70–80 μm) bituminous coals on system performance whilst biomass trials investigated the effects of chopped straw, chicken litter, shredded paper and refuse derived fuels. The fuel and air were premixed and fired tangentially in all cases into the primary combustor. The combustor was operated over a range of mixture ratios (φ) from fuel rich (φ = 0.5) to fuel lean (φ = 2.0) with temperatures in the order of 1250°C, hence operated in a non-slagging mode. The whole system was operated with a minimum of secondary air, required only to burn the gasified products from the primary chamber. The trials included monitoring of exhaust gases for a range of emissions. In addition, isokinetic sampling of the exhaust gases was carried out to determine particulate emission levels. Results show that best fuel burnout is achieved with biomass material levels better than 99% being achieved. Satisfactory performance was achieved with coal, (ash retention emissions) with fuel burnout in the order of 80%. Ash retention values for the biomass materials was in excess of 80% up to 98%. Coal ash retention levels were lower when analysed on a mass balance basis but of the same order when considering particulate emissions.
Factors Which Affect Coke Fired Furnaces
Authors: Griffiths A.J. 
Published: January 2017

On-line Experimental investigations have been carried out to examine parameters which show marked changes in the performance of coke fired cupolas during melting such that a decrease in optimum conditions can be predicted. This decrease in performance usually results in increase in pollution levels, especially that of particulate emissions from the stack. Previous models by other workers have been examined and classified into three groups, those involving the use of heat transfer coefficients, thermodynamic and chemical methods, and models based on the statistical analysis of data. From the measurements of the top gases it is shown that the carbon monoxide levels identify problems within the melting zone and that a drop in the carbon monoxide level indicates that the iron temperature is about to fall and that foaming slag is developing.
Global Climate Change: European Policy Makers' Views of How Science Enters the Political Process
Authors: Kempten Willett , Craig Paul P. , Kuennen Craig R. 
Published: January 2017

This paper examines the process of establishing scientific consensus in the global climate change debate, as reported in interviews with policy makers, administrators and advisors in four European countries. We focus on three areas: 1) the European political community's deliberate organization of scientists to advise them on global climate change science policy; 2) European rationales for taking policy action in the presence of high scientific uncertainty, and 3) European interpretations of United States policy in terms of United States culture and public opinion. We find that consensus on global climate change is seemingly being reached - or at least publicly stated - more readily in Europe than in the United States. This appears to result from several deliberately-created European consensus building processes by representatives from the scientific community and government. In contrast, in the United States both the science of global climate change and the implications for public policy have been much more contested and debated. Extreme ends of the range of scientific opinion appear to be given more weight in the United States than in Europe, in part because of the contrasting fora available. Finally, our European interviewees attributed United States timidity on climate change remediation to American culture and voter unwillingness to forgo energy use.
Review of Aerothermally Induced Vibrations in Gas Turbine Engines
Authors: Najjar Yousef S.H. 
Published: January 2017

High or changing vibration amplitude patterns in turbomachines are signs of impending failure or a machines deterioration. If properly diagnosed, this information can help improve performance, reliability; reduce maintenance cost; and avoid serious outages. Vibrations could be caused by structural or aerodynamic excitations, in addition to combustion pulsations. Methods of decreasing vibrations are mentioned, where selection of proper materials plays an important role. These areas are reviewed briefly in this work.
Computerized tomography angiography by direct intra-aortic low volume contrast injection in patients being evaluated for EVAR
Authors: Teixeira Pedro GR , Clavijo Leonardo C , Wilcox Alison G , Weaver Fred A 
Published: January 2017

Background Computerized tomography angiography is an important tool for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm planning. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of computerized tomography angiography using direct intra-aortic injection of low volume of iodinated contrast in patients being considered for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm. Design A 5F high-flow angiographic catheter was positioned in the mid-thoracic aorta through femoral percutaneous access. Computerized tomography angiography was performed with image acquisition starting simultaneously with power injection of 10 mL of iopamidol 76% diluted with normal saline to 50 mL, at 6 mL/s through the angiographic catheter. Aortic enhancement was assessed with a circular region-of-interest within the aorta. Values ≥150 HU were considered adequate. Results Nine patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm and chronic renal dysfunction underwent computerized tomography angiography with intra-arterial contrast injection for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm planning. Mean age 78.8 ± 5.0 years, mean baseline creatinine 1.8 ± 0.4 mg/dL and mean glomerular filtration rate 36.8 ± 4.2 mL/min. Adequate computerized tomography angiography aortic enhancement was obtained in all cases (mean intra-aortic density: 300.4 ± 72.8 HU). The total contrast volume used for the computerized tomography angiography and the endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm combined was 30.0 ± 21.4 mL. Seventy-five percent of the patients received ≤30 mL of contrast. No significant renal function deterioration occurred (creatinine clearance pre- and post-procedure 36.8 ± 4.2 mL/min versus 38.6 ± 6.1 mL/min, p = 0.32). Successful endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm was achieved in eight patients. One patient underwent open treatment based on computerized tomography angiography information. No endoleak or aneurysm growth occurred (median follow-up: 121 days (range 36–1242)). Conclusion Direct intra-aortic injection of low volume of iodinated contrast provides adequate and reproducible pattern of aortic enhancement on computerized tomography angiography. The computerized tomography angiography so acquired can be used for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm limiting the total volume of iodinated contrast required.
Self-efficacy and paradoxical dependence in chronic back pain: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Cummings Elizabeth C , van Schalkwyk Gerrit I , Grunschel Beth DG , Snyder Mary K , Davidson Larry 
Published: January 2017

Objectives Patients with chronic back pain encounter considerable psychological and social challenges. In particular, the ever-evolving relationship between chronic back pain, sense of self-efficacy, and perceived role in interpersonal relationships merits further investigation. Methods We conducted in-person semi-structured interviews with 20 adult patients attending a specialized interventional spine pain clinic. The interview transcripts were subjected to inductive thematic analysis, and themes were labeled descriptively. Participant responses were intentionally not analyzed within the context of an existing theoretical framework, so that the content of participant responses would directly drive the emphasis of the findings. Results Participants described chronic back pain as a lonely struggle amid diminished capacity to work, enjoy leisure time, and contribute to social relationships. Feelings of needing to handle pain independently contrasted with the reality of having to rely on others for help, and this tension was a source of anxiety. Discussion The experience of chronic back pain was characterized by a conflict between the desire for self-efficacy, a sense of isolation, and the paradoxical need to rely on others. Interventions that allow patients to navigate this struggle by seeking help for their diminished capability, while retaining a sense of autonomy and self-worth, are indicated.
Results of minimal invasive coracoclavicular fixation by double button lift-up system in Neer type II distal clavicle fractures
Authors: Dedeoğlu Süleyman Semih , İmren Yunus , Çabuk Haluk , Çakar Murat , Arslan Samet Murat , Esenyel Cem Zeki 
Published: January 2017

Aim: We aimed to evaluate clinical and functional outcomes of indirect fracture reduction performed by coracoclavicular fixation with minimal invasive double button lift-up system in Neer type IIa unstable fractures of distal clavicle. Material and methods: 22 patients with Neer type 2 distal clavicle fracture were enrolled in that prospective study. All patients underwent indirect reduction and osteosynthesis performed by coracoclavicular fixation with minimal invasive double button lift-up system. Postoperative follow-up was carried out clinically and radiologically with plain X-rays and utilization of Constant and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment (ASES) shoulder scores. Mean follow-up time was 15 months. A standard sling was applied for 2 weeks, postoperatively. Rehabilitation program was started on postoperative day 1. Results: Mean age was 39 (range: 21–60), 18 of the patients were male. Right dominant extremity was affected in 14 patients. Mean duration of the surgical intervention was 40 min (range: 30–55 min). Mean union time was found to be 14 weeks (range: 7–21 weeks). Mean postoperative ASES and Constant scores were 79.9 (66.9–88.3) and 82.2 (71–100), respectively. The duration of return to normal daily activities were found to be 4.5 months. Any loss of reduction, AC joint arthrosis, and clavicular shortening were not detected in X-rays. Conclusion: This study has demonstrated that indirect osteosynthesis performed by coracoclavicular fixation with double button lift-up system in the treatment of unstable Neer type IIa fractures of the distal clavicle had successful clinical, radiological, and functional outcomes.
Spontaneous healing of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injury and improved quality of life after total hip arthroplasty via a direct anterior approach
Authors: Ozaki Yu , Homma Yasuhiro , Baba Tomonori , Sano Kei , Desroches Asuka , Kaneko Kazuo 
Published: January 2017

Purpose: How the symptomatology of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) injury changes after total hip arthroplasty (THA) via direct anterior approach (DAA) is not known. Our hypothesis was that the symptoms of LFCN injury after THA via DAA in longer follow-up periods would resolve spontaneously, leading to an improved quality of life (QOL). The aims of this study were to investigate how the symptom LFCN injury changed after DAA–THA, and how those changes affected QOL. Methods: We investigated the incidence of LFCN injury after DAA–THA using self-reported questionnaires at two time points (initial survey: August 2014, present survey: August 2015). QOL was assessed by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire, and the Forgotten Joint Score-12 (FJS-12). Types (dysesthesia or hypesthesia) and changes of the symptom were surveyed. Results: About 122 hips at average12.8 months postoperatively (initial survey), and of those, 89 hips at average 26.2 months postoperatively (present survey) were analyzed. The incidence of LFCN injury decreased significantly, from 31.9% to 11.2% ( p < 0.001). Spontaneous improvement of symptoms was seen in 96%. The difference of FJS-12 between patients with and without LFCN injury at the initial survey disappeared at the present survey. The dysesthesia group showed significant correlations between rate of improvement in LFCN injury and increase of QOL. Conclusion: Most symptoms of LFCN injury resolved spontaneously with longer follow-up periods. In particular, improvement of dysesthesia as a symptom of LFCN injury was associated with better QOL.
Valproate in the Treatment of Acute Mania
Authors: Holtzer Christopher D , Echaves Stephen A 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To determine whether valproate is effective for the acute treatment of mania. Data Sources: Pertinent literature was identified through a MEDLINE search. Study Selection: Blinded, controlled, or other high-quality trials with adequate sample size evaluating valproate in the treatment of acute mania were selected. Data Extraction: Study selection for the review was based on the quality of the trial and the clinical endpoint of control of acute manic symptoms using valproate. Data Synthesis: Acute manic episodes in bipolar disease are disabling and dangerous. A minority of acutely manic patients either do not respond to treatment with lithium or cannot tolerate its adverse effects. Valproate is a viable but slightly less effective alternative in the patients who cannot use lithium. Conclusions: Combined analysis of all studies examined in this article yields a success rate of 54% for valproate in the treatment of acute mania. This efficacy rate recommends valproate as suitable alternative treatment for acutely manic patients who do not respond to lithium or cannot tolerate its adverse effects.
Lack of Effect of Frost-Free Refrigeration on the Volume of Antibiotic Liquids
Authors: Erramouspe John 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To determine whether sealing liquid penicillin bottles in resealable plastic bags during storage in a household frost-free refrigerator prevents clinically significant evaporative losses. Design: Sixty bottles of penicillin VK 250 mg/5 mL, 100 mL (10 bottles from each of 6 different manufacturers: Apothecon, Biocraft, Lederle, SmithKline Beecham, Warner-Chilcott, and Wyeth-Ayerst) were mixed according to the manufacturers' recommendations. Five bottles from each manufacturer were stored inside a resealable plastic bag and the other 5 bottles were stored outside a bag (both at 2–8 °C in a frost-free refrigerator). Twice daily, 5-mL doses were removed from the bottles. The mean total volume removed from bottles stored inside resealable plastic bags was compared with that from bottles stored outside bags. Results: There was no difference in the average total amount removed from bottles between the two storage conditions. Conclusions: Sealing bottles containing liquid penicillin in plastic bags during storage in a household frost-free refrigerator seems to offer no advantage in protection from volume depletion via evaporation over 10 days. Factors other than evaporation are probably responsible when antibiotics that require refrigeration have insufficient volume to provide the expected number of doses.