Spine
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Prospective study. ⋯ The LWR had a positive correlation with the age, while the lipid LW had a positive correlation with BMD, even after controlling the age factor. The bone marrow lipid water content and metabolism acted as important roles in the internal environment of bone and influenced bone mineralization.
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Study of two cohorts with a differing severity of disease before and after treatment. ⋯ The German version of the cervical NASS patient questionnaire (NASS) is a valid instrument for patients with cervical spine health problems. As this instrument is also sensitive to change, it is recommended for use. Moreover, the present study gives evidence for the validity of the original cervical NASS questionnaire in English.
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Retrospective review of 110 patients undergoing spinal dural repair and regeneration using an onlay, suture-free, 3-dimensional-collagen matrix graft (DuraGen) over an 8-year period (1995-2003). ⋯ Collagen matrix was successful in cerebrospinal fluid containment in > 95% of patients requiring dural repair following anterior and posterior spinal surgery. Subfascial drains were safe. Routine lumbar drains are not required but are recommended for repair of established pseudomeningocele formations.
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Dimensional measurement of cervical neural foramen at various positions, using reformatted computed tomography. ⋯ The present results are consistent with those of previous in vitro studies and may explain the clinical observation that cervical extension aggravates symptoms in patients with cervical radiculopathy and that flexion often relieves them.
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Because mesenchymal stem cells can differentiate into chondrocyte-like cells, we ask the question, can mesenchymal stem cells commit to the nucleus pulposus phenotype? ⋯ Our results indicate that hypoxia and transforming growth factor-beta drive mesenchymal stem cell differentiation towards a phenotype consistent with that of the nucleus pulposus. Measurement of selected signaling molecules and response to specific inhibitors suggest involvement of MAPK signaling pathways. It is concluded that mesenchymal stem cells could be used to repopulate the damaged or degenerate intervertebral disc.