bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AMIDOSTOMOSIS OF GEESE IN FARM CONDITIONS USING EXTENSIVE GROWING TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: Nahorna L. V.
Published: January 2022

The article provides data on the study of the spread of amidostomosis invasion of geese in farms using extensive cultivation technologies. Waterfowl helminthiasis is a common contagious disease. The economic losses from invasion increase with the associated course of helminthiasis. Amidostomosis is one of the topical nematodes of geese. The aim of our work was to study the spread of amidostomosis invasion of geese in the farms of the Chernihiv region, where extensive technologies of poultry rearing are used, to establish the extensiveness and intensity of invasion, the seasonal and age dynamics of the manifestation of amidostomosis invasion among the poultry. The studies to achieve the goal, coproovoscopic of goose feces were carried out and the species characteristics of invasive elements isolated from the droppings were determined. The studies, the spread of amidostomosis invasion of geese using extensive technologies of their breeding was established, a clear seasonal and age-related dynamics of its manifestation was noted. Amidostomosis invasion was recorded in farms where young poultry were in contact with parental poultry literally from the first weeks of life. In these farms, from poultry droppings, eggs with amidostome began to be found from 1.5 months. age, with an extensiveness of invasion of 0.2-2.5%. In the following age groups of geese, the extent of invasion was: 2.5-3.5 months. - 10.5-22.3%; 4-5 months - 26.1-50.4%; 6-7 months - 32.0-82.1%; 8-9 months - 23-49.2%; 10-12 months - 15.0-21.6%. The peak of amidostomous invasion was recorded in the fall, intensity of amidostomosis invasion of 3.25 ± 0.12 specimens / drop of flotation fluid. The intensity of amidostomosis invasion gradually decreased in winter and reached its minimum values in March - 0.74 ± 0.16 specimens / drop of flotation fluid. The livestock of geese in farms where free-range keeping of young animals was not practiced in the spring-autumn period was favorable for amidostomosis and other nematodes of the alimentary canal. We recommend using anthelmintic drugs containing several active ingredients to effectively overcome amidostomosis invasion in geese, in dysfunctional farms.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE METHOD FOR QUANTITATIVE DETERMINATION OF NEOMYCIN SULPHATE IN VETERINARY PREPARATIONS WITH PRECOLUMN DERIVATIZATION AND FLUORESCENT DETECTION
Authors: Ostapiv R. D. , Humeniuk S. L. , Tkachenko V. І. , Chipak S. Yu.
Published: January 2022

The aim of work was to develop a method for the identification and quantification of neomycin sulfate in intracisternal veterinary preparations. The method was developed and validated by: selectivity, linearity and suitability parameters of the chromatographic system. A four-component intracisternal drug with a 25 mg/g neomycin content was used as an object sample for method development. The standard sample and the test sample were dissolved in purified water to a concentration of 100 μg/ml, followed by derivatization with 9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl chloride at room temperature. The total uncertainty of the analysis was 1.62 %, which is within the limits recommended in SFU 2.0. The samples were separated on a Dionex Ultimate 3000 chromatograph equipped with an Acclaim C18 150 × 4.6.5 μm chromatographic column. The mobile phase was a mixture of acetonitrile and water in a volume ratio of 95:5. Neomycin sulfate was detected fluorescently at wavelengths λex - 254 nm, λem - 303 nm.

Under the above conditions, it was possible to completely separate the two isoforms of neomycin (retention time of chromatographic peaks - 6.57 min and 6.98 min), 9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl chloride and other components of the study drug (retention time of the corresponding chromatographic peaks - 2-5 min). In this case, the parameters of the suitability of the chromatographic system did not exceed the limits specified in the recommendations of the USA Food and Drug Association. For peaks of neomycin sulfate, the efficiency of the chromatographic system was 7700–7950 theoretical plates. The relative standard deviation (RSD) for the peak areas of the active substance was ± 0.33%, and the coefficient of separation of the peaks (RS) of neomycin sulfate from the peaks of the derivatization reagent and other components of the drug was 11.9. The coefficient of peak symmetry was 1.18. The calibration curves were linear in the recommended SFU 2.0 range (80–120% of the nominal concentration of the corresponding active substance). The coefficient of linearity (R2) for the sum of neomycin sulfate peak areas was – 0.9991.
SLAUGHTER INDEXES, MORPHOLOGICAL COMPOSITION OF CARCASES AND MUSCLE TISSUE QUALITY OF REARING PIGS UNDER FEED ADDITIVE "ACTIVO" SUPPLEMENTATION
Authors: Prudius T. Y. , Hutsol A. V. , Hutsol N. V.
Published: January 2022

Science and practice have established that properly organized pig feeding, allows to increase animal usage of nutrients from the diet, which positively influences the growth rate of pig rearers and improves their meat quality.

Supplementation of rearing pig diets with the feed additive "Aсtivo" has no negative impact on feed intake and positively influences the slaughter indexes, the morphological carcasses content and the internal organs’ mass. The pigs slaughtering indicators of the trial group were better, which proves the efficiency of the feed additive "Active" supplementation. The slaughtered mass of animals from the trial group was improved by 3.32 kg, comparing to the control group. Similarly, the carcass mass of the animals of the trial group increased on 6.52 kg comparing to control. This resulted in slaughter yield improvement on 6,59 % in trial group.

There is no significant difference in the mass of by-products, but there is a tendency to some increase in the trial group.

Supplementation of young pigs with the feed additive "Activo" has a negligible effect on the carcasses morphological composition and causes a tendency to increase the meat and fat yield.

Feeding rearing pigs of "Activo" has no probable effect on the change of physico-chemical indicators of meat quality. However, the actual figures have some differences in individual indicators within the statistical deviations. Laboratory studies of the Longissimus dorsi muscle showed that there was no significant difference between trial and control groups in water holding capacity of muscle tissue. Also, there is no significant difference in terms of meat marbling and color intensity.
EPIZOOTOLOGICAL FEATURES CORONAVIRUS INFECTION IN CATS
Authors: Radzіkhovskyі N. , Dyshkant О. , Tolokevich O. , Moshkivsky V.
Published: January 2022

The exact number of cats living on our planet is unknown, but there are reports with reference to studies conducted by French scientists from the University of Lyon (France) in 400 million domestic cats, most of which live in the United States and Brazil (93 and about 100 million. in accordance). However, according to researchers, the first place in the world in terms of the number of cats per capita is Australia (ratio of 9:10), and Ukraine is in the top 10 countries with the largest number of domestic cats.

In the mid-90s of the twentieth century, Ukraine faced a new infectious disease that affects different species of the feline family - infectious feline peritonitis (IPC), the causative agent of which is a virus of the family Coronaviridae. Animal coronaviruses have been a problem for more than 50 years, however, given their variability and large diversity, the study of this group of viruses continues today.

The article presents data on the epizootological features of coronavirus infection in cats for the period 2019 - 2020 in veterinary clinics in Zhytomyr and Kyiv. During a certain period of time, during the experiment, 115 samples were taken for the study, of which 95 animals were detected with the virus of the family Coronaviridae.

The paper highlights the results of the study of age and breed predisposition. It has been found that 2-6 month old kittens are most prone, especially breeds such as British, Persian and Scottish. Indicators of seasonality of manifestation, and also dynamics of morbidity of cats with a coronavirus infection are resulted. In the spring and summer, the peak incidence of the studied disease was noted.

According to the results of the epizootic analysis, a nosological profile of infectious diseases in cats was formed, which is represented by 8 infections, and the most frequently registered diseases are caused by viruses of the families Herpesviridae Caliciviridae and Parvoviridae.
THE PROLONGED INFLUENCE OF PROBIOTIC PROTECTION OF MUCOSY COWS BEFORE INSEMINATION ON THE EXPRESSION OF THE PRODUCTIVE POTENTIAL OF THEIR FIRSTBORN DAUGHTERS
Authors: Sidashova S. A. , Avdosyevа I. K. , Chornyi V. O. , Chajkovska O. I. , Popova I. M. , Roman L. G.
Published: January 2022

The aim of our study was to determine the prolonged delayed action of probiotic feed protection of the intestinal mucosa of cows in the period before fertilization for the manifestation of the productive potential of their daughters during the first lactation.

Analytical work was carried out during the 2016-2019 economic years, the experimental part of the study was carried out on the basis of a dairy complex-breeder of Ukrainian red dairy cattle (700 dairy heads), located in Odessa region.

The results of a scientific and industrial study of a number of indicators of productivity of replacement heifers / heifers / heifers of the Ukrainian red dairy breed showed that the use of the feed probiotic preparation "Veterinary Multibacterin Bs + La suspension - feed mixture" together with the main diet of mothers before artificial insemination gave a positive prolonged effect on the manifestation of the productive potential of their half-siblings. For standard lactation, first-calf heifers in the experiment had a higher milk productivity by 6.99 % (respectively: 8121 and 7540 kg per head, P <0.05). At the same time, the first-calf heifers of the experimental group had a more physiological term for the interstitial period, namely: 425.39 days, which was 56.28 days shorter than in the control and contributed to the profitability of production.

 It has been experimentally established that probiotic protection of the intestinal mucosa of mothers cows has a positive effect on the quality of the offspring, which forms the next generation of the breeding herd.
DETERMINATION OF VIRULICIDAL PROPERTIES OF EXPERIMENTAL SUKHODEZ DISINFECTANT
Authors: Fotina Т. , Slaston D.
Published: January 2022

The paper considers the determination of the effectiveness of the virucidal concentration of the new powdered disinfectant «Sukhodez» in relation to DNA-containing and RNA-containing viruses, namely avian smallpox viruses and duck hepatitis.

The research was conducted in the laboratory of virology of the Department of Pat anatomy, Virology and Poultry Diseases. To determine the effectiveness of virucidal concentrations of the tool against smallpox virus - DNA-containing, cultured on the chorionic-allantoic membrane in 10-12-day-old chicken embryos and hepatitis virus ducklings - RNA-containing, used a suspension of virus-containing material, which virus on primary cultures of duck embryo cells.

The aim of the work was to investigate a new powdered disinfectant «Sukhodez», namely its virucidal properties.

The study was conducted in two stages. The first determined the effect of the drug on RNA-containing virus (Avihepatovirus A), and the second stage of research on DNA-containing virus (Fowlox virus).

Thus, at the first stage of the research, the effect of «Sukhodez» disinfectant on duckling hepatitis virus was determined at a dose of 25, 50, 75 and 100 g of the product per m2 with an exposure of 15, 30 and 60 minutes and the control was treated with sterile water. Thus, at a dosage of 25 g / m2, the product shows a disinfectant ability of 46.3% in 15 minutes, and at an exposure of 30 minutes. completely inactivates the virus; also studies have shown that at a dosage of 75 and 100 g./m2 at an exposure of 15 minutes complete inactivation of the virus took place on the washes.

In the second stage of the study, the effect of the virucidal action of «Sukhodez» on the DNA-containing avian smallpox virus, which was cultured on the chorionic allantoic membrane of 10-12-day-old chicken embryos, was determined. During the study, it was found that at a concentration of 50 g / m2 disinfectant «Sukhodez» after 15 minutes inactivated the virus by 98.3%. However, after 30 minutes, the effectiveness of the disinfectant increased to 100%. When treating surfaces at the rate of 75 and 100 g / m2 of the tool «Sukhodez» after 15 minutes there was a complete inactivation of the virus. not found.

According to our research on the virucidal action of the disinfectant, it was found that the experimental disinfectant «Sukhodez» has virucidal properties to RNA-containing and DNA-containing viruses at a rate of 50/75 g / m2 area.
EXPERIMENTAL JUSTIFICATION OF THE EFFICIENCY OF BIOLIDE DISINFECTANT FOR DISPOSAL OF BACTERIAL INFECTIONS IN CONDITIONS OF INDUSTRIAL POULTRY
Authors: Chechet O. M. , Kovalenko V. L. , Garkavenko T. O. , Gorbatyuk O. I. , Kozytska T. G. , Andriyashchuk V. O.
Published: January 2022

The materials of the article are devoted to the study of the bactericidal action of the newly developed «Biolaid» disinfectant at the first stage to determine the possibility of its use in the poultry industry to replace expensive, often toxic and ineffective disinfectants that have now flooded the market in Ukraine.

Modern poultry farms are integrated enterprises, the structure of which consists of one continuous link with an incubator, own parent and industrial herds, production shops for processing products and feed production. One of the most important factors in the successful operation of such enterprises is quality disinfection.

The problem of developing new cheap, safe, effective disinfectants remains relevant. The problem is supplemented by questions on the study of the effects of disinfectants on the indicators of general resistance in poultry and their impact on the productivity of birds, as such information is quite limited.

Bacterial suspensions of test cultures with a concentration of 0.5–1.0 according to the McFarland standard (microbial load from 1.35×108 to 3.0×108 CFU/cm3) were prepared for the study by washing the colonies of the daily culture of microorganisms with trypton-soy agar (TCA) with sterile saline. The working dilutions of the experimental disinfectant were made according to the recommendations in the leaflet-tab, in concentrations of 0.1; 0.2; 0.25 and 0.5 % at exposures of 10, 20 and 30 minutes.

The results of studies of the newly developed «Biolaid» disinfectant showed its high efficiency, proven experimentally, because at the level of 0.25 % concentration of the working dilution of the drug at an exposure of 30 minutes. complete neutralization of test cultures of Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442 was achieved without bacteriostatic effect, which testified to the effectiveness of the drug in its action on gram-negative and gram-positive pathogenic bacteria.
Mindfulness-based treatment for smoking cessation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sponholz Araujo1,2 Mariana , Gabriel da Silva3 Lucas , Monteiro Alves Pereira3 Gabriel , Ferreira Pinto4 Nanci , Marcelo Costa2 Fábio , Moreira2 Lucas , Porfírio Nunes2 Daniella , Gonçalves Martynychen Canan2 Mariane , Santos de Oliveira5 Maria Helena
Published: January 2022

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of a mindfulness-based treatment (MBT) for smoking cessation or reduction and compare it with that of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Methods: This was a single-center randomized controlled clinical trial including 113 patients divided into two groups: MBT (n = 54) and CBT (n = 59). The interventions comprised eight 90-min sessions. The primary outcome was smoking cessation at 16 weeks after program initiation. Secondary outcomes included reduction in the mean number of cigarettes smoked/day at 16 weeks after treatment initiation, as well as smoking cessation and reduction in the number of cigarettes smoked/day at the last program session. Participants had to attend = 50% of the sessions to be included in the primary outcome analysis. An intention-to-treat analysis was also performed. Results: There was no difference between the groups regarding the primary outcome (30.4% in the MBT group vs. 31.6% in the CBT group, p = 0.68) or immediate abstinence rates (47.8% in the MBT group vs. 36.8% in the CBT group, p = 0.47). Both treatments were equally effective in reducing the number of cigarettes smoked/day at the last program session (a reduction of 93.33% [0-100%] in the MBT group and of 70% [33.3-100%] in the CBT group, p = 0.92) and at 16 weeks after program initiation (a reduction of 57.1% [0-100%] in the MBT group and of 70% [25-100%] in the CBT group, p = 0.49). Conclusions: MBT appears to be as effective as CBT for smoking cessation or reduction and can be an option for the treatment of tobacco use disorders in Brazil (Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials identifier: RBR-3w2scz [http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br])
Lumbar Spine Aneurysmal Bone Cyst
Authors: Butt Babar , Zunair Syed Ali , Latif Alia , Awan Nasir Raza
Published: January 2022

An Aneurysmal Bone Cyst (ABC) is a benign, locally aggressive, vascular, and expansile bony tumor of idiopathic etiology containing multiple thin-walled blood-filled channels, mostly diagnosed in pediatric and adolescent age groups. These lesions can cause local pain, pathological fractures, spinal deformity, and neurological deficits. The treatment of choice for ABC is highly debatable according to the literature. The treatment choices are simple curettage and grafting, complete surgical resection with or without prior selective arterial embolization, radiotherapy, or a combination of these procedures according to the case. Each modality is having different outcomes, technical requirements, and complications. We are reporting a case of Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of the lumbar spine in a young patient treated by surgery.
Outcome Comparison of Endoscopic (Endonasal Trans-Sphenoidal) Repairs of CSS Leak vs. Transcranial Approach
Authors: Simair Ishfaque Ahmed , Ali Jawad , Khattak Abid , Qureshi Amjad , Din Tarique Salah-ud-
Published: January 2022

Objective:   To compare the effectiveness of Endoscopic (Endonasal transsphenoidal) repair of CSF leak with transcranial approach in terms of post-operative complications like infection, recurrence and hospital stay.

Material and Methods:  The comparative experimental randomized study was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery Unit I, PGMI, Lahore General Hospital, Lahore. After approval from ethical committee this study was carried out in our unit. 40 subjects with the history of CSF leak were randomly divided into two groups; one was treated with endonasal trans-sphenoidal repair and another was treated with trans-cranial approach, the subjects were followed up for 1 year. Detailed history, neurological examination, preoperative CT and MRI scans were performed in all patients.

Results:  The mean age of patients with CSF leak was 25.58 ± 14.38 years. Among the patients, 17 were females and 23 were male. The mean age of the female was 31.70 ± 14.29 years. The mean age of the male was 21.04 ± 12.95. The recurrence was observed in 2 (10%) of the patients treated with endoscopic technique and 1 (5%) of the patients treated with trans-cranial approach. Those patients were successfully repaired in a second operation. Overall success rate was 92.5%. One patient (2.50%) among the trans-cranial approach develops infection which was treated successfully.

Conclusion:  The endoscopic repair of CSF leak is both safe and effective and should be considered as the standard procedure of choice in most of the cases.
Anterior Cervical Corpectomy with Cage Fixation for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Anwar Ullah Muhammad , Usman Muhammad , Khan Faheem Ullah , . Jehanzeb , Jalal Abdul
Published: January 2022

Objective:  This study aimed to report the clinical outcome of anterior cervical corpectomy with cage fixation in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

Material and Methods:  This observational retrospective study included 36 patients from the Neurosurgery department of Lady Ready Hospital MTI, Peshawar from 2014 January to 2015 December. After performing surgery, the patients were followed up for six months for neurological outcome and various post-operative complications such as infection, transient recurrent laryngeal palsy, screw displacement and improvements in paresthesias and gait ataxia.

Results:  Most of the patients have no post-operative complications. Seventy-five percent (n = 27) of patients reported an immediate improvement in paresthesia and fine hand movements and gait. The major reported complications were implant failure (5.55%) and recurrent laryngeal nerve transient palsy in two patients (5.55%) each.

Conclusion:  In patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy, with anterior compression, cervical corpectomy with cage fixation is less invasive and an effective procedure with acceptable outcomes.
Surgical Outcome of Sellar Suprasellar Brain Tumors through Retracterless Subfrontal Approach
Authors: Mahmood Rana Zubair , Bajwa Imran , Zunair Sayed Ali , Ahmad Touqeer , Sultan Habib , Mehmood Shoqaib
Published: January 2022

Objectives:  The aim of this study is to see the surgical outcome of Sellar and Suprasellar brain tumors with retractorless modified subfrontal approach.

Material and Methods:  We did cohort study of 15 patients who were operated in Neurosurgery Unit 2, PINS. Our study duration is 1 year and follow up duration is of 3 months. Clinical features were related to cranial nerves 2nd, 3rd ,4th, and pituitary gland, dural irritation and temporal lobe compression i.e., diplopia, decrease vision, CSF rhinorrhea, abnormal olfaction, headache, GTCS etc.

Results:  In our study, age range was 8 – 62 years with mean age was 35 years. Our 5 patients were male and 10 patients were female. Surgery was performed in all patients through subfrontal approach with retractorless method. In Histopathological report of 2 patients’ findings was Craniopharyngioma, 12 were of pituitary adenoma and 1 was of sellar meningioma. Seven 46.67 percent patients operated successfully with no new neurological deficit. Three 20 percent patients operated but no post op improvement in clinical symptoms, no patients were re-explored postoperatively due to CSF Rhinorrhea. Diabetes Insipidus occurred in 5 (33.3%) patients post-operatively which was managed later on.

Conclusion:  Surgery subfrontal approach with retractorless method is the safe corridor for treatment of sellar and Suprasellar brain tumors.
Importance of Simpson/Shinshu Grading in Meningioma’s Excision, Outcome and Recurrence
Authors: Wadd Ijaz Hussain , Naeem Muhammad , Ijaz Sidra
Published: January 2022

Objective:  The study was aimed to determine the recurrence rate and recurrence-free survival of meningioma surgery with reference to Simpson grading of excision.

Material and Methods:  The study was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery, Punjab Institute of Neurosciences (PINS), Lahore. Total 325 patients both male and female of age (13 – 70 years) with supratentorial grade I meningioma operated. The craniotomy with maximum safe excision of the meningioma was done in all patients under general anesthesia. All patients followed-up to one year clinically and radiologically. MRI brain plain and IV contrast were done at 6 months and then annually. The extent of resection was determined with the help of operative notes and post-op MRI and recurrences were studied with help of follow-up MRI.

Results:  There were 227 female and 98 male patients in ages 13 – 70 years. The mean age of patients was 53.5 years. 227 (70%) skull base meningioma, 71 (22.0%) convexity meningioma, and 26 (8%) falx or tentorium meningioma were operated. We achieved Simpson grade I excision in 55 (17.45%), grade II in 208 (64%), grade III in 23 (7%), and grade IV in 36 (11%) cases. The median recurrence free survival (RFS) with reference to Simpson grading of excision was 250, 120, 98, 80 months for grades I, II, III, and IV excision; it was statistically significant according to the grading of excision. 

Conclusion:  Excision of meningioma up to grades I and II had an excellent outcome with minimum chances of complications.
Outcome of the Traumatic Extradural Hematoma on the Basis of Size of Extradural Hematoma
Authors: Tariq Muhammad , Mian Mushtaq ahmad , Ali Muhammad , Ayub Shahid , Dad Khan Waseem , Daud Khan Sohail
Published: January 2022

Objective:  This study aimed to determine the outcome of traumatic extradural hematoma and to compare the outcome of small and large size extradural hematoma.

Materials & Methods:  A descriptive case series was carried out in the Department of Neurosurgery, Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar for six months and included 188 patients. The detailed history and clinical examinations were noted through a pre-designed proforma. Patients were followed post-operatively till the time of discharge and for either favorable outcome or unfavorable outcome according to the GOS.

Results:  73% of patients had extradural hematoma volume between 25 – 50 mL, while 27% patients had extradural hematoma >50 mL. 12% of patients had Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS) scores 1 – 3, while 88% of patients had GOS scores: 4 – 5. The mean GOS was 3. Patients with favorable outcomes were 88% while 12% had an unfavorable outcome.

Conclusion:  The size of the extradural hematoma has a strong correlation with outcome. The greater the size of the hematoma, the poorer the outcome.
Early Experience with Percutaneous Transpedicular Screw Fixation for Thoracolumbar Fractures at a Tertiary Hospital in Pakistan.
Authors: Ahmad Kamboh Usman , Mehboob Mehreen , Ashraf Mohammad , Shahid Saman , Sultan Kashif Ali , Asif Raza Muhammad , Hussain Syed Shahzad , Ashraf Naveed
Published: January 2022

Objective:  To present our early experience with percutaneous transpedicular screw fixation for thoracolumbar fractures at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.

Material & Methods:  A case series of 20 patients with thoracolumbar fractures, who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were followed for up to six months to evaluate their functional status using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Kendall’s tau, Spearman’s rho and Pearson correlations were conducted to draw useful conclusions.

Results:  85% patients’ injury was reported from ‘fall from height’. 55% of the fracture was the dorsal-lumbar junction (T12-L1). Burst type morphology was reported in maximum number of patients (65%). 55% of patients were reported to be neurologically intact. ODI score’s mean percentage decreased from 40% to 23% during the first week to six months, indicates an improvement in the disabilities. A significant (p<0.050) positive correlation was found between fracture morphology and ODI. All patients had an accurate screw trajectory postoperatively and no postoperative complications were documented. Neurology was stable for all patients at 1, 3 and 6 months.

Conclusion:  Percutaneous transpedicular screw fixation can be a viable approach for thoracolumbar burst fractures with intact posterior ligamentous complex in all types of thoracolumbar fractures, including type C and leads to an improvement the quality of life. Fracture morphology has a significantly positive correlation with a higher disability index score, with more severe fracture morphologies as per the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity (TLICS) score having a higher disability.
Comparing Mean Post-Operative Back Pain Score between Hemilaminectomy and Conventional Laminectomy in Patients of Lumbar Stenosis
Authors: Anwar Taimoor , Rehman Muhammad Abdur , Tanveer Ahmad Urwa , Anwer Ammar , Wahab Anum , Tul Ain Tariq Qura
Published: January 2022

Objective:  To observe the comparative mean post-operative back-pain score between hemilaminectomy and conventional laminectomy in patients of lumbar stenosis.

Material and Methods:  The randomized controlled study was carried out in Neurosurgery Unit, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad, Pakistan. A total of 60 patients were distributed equally in two groups. Group A underwent hemilaminectomy while group B underwent conventional laminectomy. A linear median fascial incision was made on the side with more pain or symptoms. Only in the hemilaminectomy group, ipsilateral decompression was performed. It involves partial resection of adjacent parts of the hemi laminae of the superior and inferior vertebrae using operative loupes or neurosurgical microscope. Mean ±SD was calculated for quantitative data including back pain score.

Results:  Mean age was 46.2 ± 6.94 years in hemi group and 46.3 ± 6.74 years in the conventional group. We observed that in hemi group, the back pain score was 2.23 ± 0.73 and it was 2.7 ± 0.65 in the conventional group (p-value was 0.011). Significant differences (p value<0.050) existed in these age ranges with respect to the back pain score in both surgery groups. A significant difference (p value < 0.0001) observed only in male patients between two surgery groups for the back pain scores.

Conclusion:  Mean post-operative back pain score is significantly reduced in hemilaminectomy cases when compared with conventional laminectomy in patients of lumbar stenosis.
Acute Traumatic Subdural Hematoma: Series of Thirty Cases
Authors: Asif Muhammad , Aziz Rehman Waqar , Sarwar Sumaira , Younas Hamza , Younas Aatika
Published: January 2022

Objectives: Acute Traumatic Subdural Hematoma (ASDH) is one of the most dangerous and challenging neurosurgical problems faced by neurosurgeons. Road traffic accidents (RTAs) and falls are the most common causes of ASDH. This study focused to evaluate the incidence, mode, and severity of the injury, treatment options, and determine outcomes in patients with ASDH.

Material & Methods:  Thirty patients with ASDH were studied over a period of three years. Detailed history, general and neurological examination including GCS were noted, CT scans were done and patients managed according to said protocol.

Results:  Twenty-three (76.66%) were male and Seven (23.33%) were female. The common mode of injury were road traffic accidents (66.66%) and falls (26.66%). Out of 30 patients, 53.33% had GCS 3-5. Overall, the mortality rate was 60%. 23.33% of patients survived with severe disability and 10% of patients showed moderate disability and good recovery. The mortality rate was higher in patients above 50 years of age.

Conclusion:  Acute traumatic subdural hematoma is still very fatal and has a high mortality. Early CT scanning emergency, surgery and good postoperative ICU care can play a role in improving the outcome in patients with ASDH.
Frequency of Infected Healthcare Workers and Factors Leading to Infection in Emergency Neurosurgical Trauma during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ahmad Khan Afridi et al. Ehtisham
Published: January 2022

Objective:  The aim of this study was to know the frequency of COVID-19 infection in healthcare workers and to identify the risk factors leading to infection in emergency neurosurgical trauma during COVID-19 pandemic.

Material and Methods:  This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery, Ayub Teaching Hospital. A total of 99 healthcare workers with an age range from 22 – 55 years attending or carry emergency procedures with both male and female gender were included in the study. Age, gender, sign and symptoms, safety measures and COVID PCR reports were recorded.

Results:  12 (12.1%) out of 99 healthcare workers got an infection with COVID-19. 83.3% of the infected healthcare workers were male while 16.6% were females. A maximum of the healthcare workers infected with COVID-19 was in the age range 31 – 40 (50%). Most of them were Doctors (66.6%) followed by nursing staff (25%). Low-grade fever and cough were the most common symptoms. The most important factors which affect the transmission of infection to healthcare workers were improper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), masks, gloves by healthcare professionals, and inability to maintain social distancing with the patients.

Conclusion:  To protect healthcare workers from getting infections, proper personal protective equipment should be used. Early recognition of the infected patient and prompt isolation should be done to prevent or minimize the chain of transmission.
Teaching Emotional Intelligence to Undergraduate Students
Authors: Amir et al Sohail
Published: January 2022

Emotional intelligence (EI) is how well we handle ourselves and our relationship. EI may be a social intelligence that will be learned, developed, and improved. Both IQ and EI are needed for success in life. But literature has proved that we need more EI to be successful. Therefore, it should be taught to undergraduate students in order to increase self-confidence, improve interpersonal and communication skills, improve empathy for better patient care, buffer stress, improve problem-solving skills, developed leadership quality and all these characteristics will lead to success in life. In the literature, there are twelve different strategies; a teacher can apply to students to teach the topic effectively. Problem based learning and role-play teaching strategies will be helpful to teach the Emotional Intelligence (EI) effectively and fulfill the four competencies of EI which includes self-awareness, self-motivation, empathy, and inter/intrapersonal skills development.

Keywords:  Emotional Intelligence, Undergraduate Students, Competencies.
Comparison of Early vs. Late Tracheostomy in Subdural Hematoma Operated at GCS Six or Below
Authors: Mahmood Rana Zubair , Ali Dehraj Sikandar , Khan Sarfraz , Mansoor Usama , Wajid Abdul , Ahmad Touqeer
Published: January 2022

Objectives:To compare the outcomes of early tracheostomy vs. late tracheostomy in post-operative patients after acute subdural hematoma at receiving GCS (Glasgow comma scale) of six or below.

Method:  A quasi observational study was conducted on 30 patients with acute subdural hematoma after RTA (road traffic accident) and were operated in The Department of Neurosurgery Unit 2, Punjab Institute of Neurosciences, LGH, Lahore. The age range was 20 – 65 years. All patients were operated upon within 12 hours of RTA.

Results:  In Group A, 12 (40%) patients, decompressive craniectomy with the evacuation of acute subdural hematoma and early tracheostomy were performed. In Group B, 8 (26%) patients’ craniotomy and evacuation of acute subdural hematoma were done along with early tracheostomy. In 6(20%) patients, decompressive craniectomy and evacuation were done and their tracheostomies were done at the 10th post-operative day. In 4 (13.33%) patients’ craniotomy and evacuation of hematoma done and their tracheostomies were also done at 10th post-operative day. In Group A, on 5th postoperative day GCS of 16 (53.33%) patients with early tracheostomies and fewer comorbidities improved, they were extubated, while 2 (6.67%) patients did not improve and 2 (6.67%) patients died. In Group B, in 30 patients with late tracheostomies, only 4 (13.33%) patients were improved. On 10th post-op day, GCS of 4 (13.33%) patients improved, GCS of 3 (10%) patients not improved and 3 (10%) patients died.

Conclusion:  Early tracheostomy in patients with acute subdural hematoma yields good results as compared to late tracheostomy.
Single Burrhole Craniostomy with Subdural Placement of Foley Catheter for Drainage of Chronic Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Sheikh Faiq , Nasir Jamal , Khalid Adnan , Saleem Rabia , Sheikh Fakiha , Rauf Abuzar
Published: January 2022

Objective:  Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common neurosurgical condition of the elderly. The lack of consensus over a single standard surgical procedure for the management of CSDH urges neurosurgeons to evaluate different techniques in terms of a better outcome.

Material & Methods:  In this prospective study forty cases of CSDH who had undergone single burr-hole craniostomy and subdural placement of Foley catheter were analyzed. The observations were made concerning clinical, radiological findings, postoperative complications, and mortality rate.

Results:  The study included 26 males and 14 females with a mean age of 67 years. The most common presenting symptom was hemiparesis (n=18, 45%). Recurrent hematoma and recurrent evacuation rate was 10%. There was no case of newly developed postoperative seizures, pneumocephalus, intracranial hemorrhage, and wound infection. The mortality rate during the study was 0.0%. The mean Glasgow outcome score (GOS) at the time of discharge was 4.8.

Conclusion:  We concluded that single burr-hole evacuation of CSDH with Foley catheter placement appears to be an effective procedure with a significant reduction in postoperative pneumocephalus. Factors such as sudden decompression of hematoma, the air in the subdural cavity, misplacement of drainage tubes, and damage to blood vessels during surgery can be reduced with this technique.
Surgical Outcome of Pure Endonasal Transsphenoidal Approach for Pituitary Tumors
Authors: Bakar Yasin Abu , Khan Rizwan Ahmed , Mahmood Khalid
Published: January 2022

Objective:  To determine the frequency of complete tumor excision by endoscopic skull base (transsphenoidal) approach in pituitary adenoma patients presenting to a neurosurgical department.

Materials & Methods:  This descriptive case series was conducted at the Department of Neurosurgery Unit II, Lahore General Hospital Lahore from May 2019 to November 2019. The study included60 patients with pituitary adenoma from the outpatient department who qualified for the inclusion criteria. All patients went through the endoscopic binarial transsphenoidal approach for pituitary adenectomy. All patients were treated according to the department protocols and were followed for 6 weeks to determine the outcome i.e. no residual tumor left as determined by Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Results:  The mean age of pituitary adenoma patients studied was 50.02 ± 8.2 years. 43 patients (71.7%) were male.56 patients (93.3%) showed complete resection on MRI using the endoscopic binarial transsphenoidal approach. The outcome was not affected by patients' gender and age. Tumor size significantly affected the outcome i.e. complete resection.

Conclusion:  It is concluded that the endoscopic skull base (transsphenoidal) approach for excision of pituitary adenomas gives desirable results as depicted by 93.3% success rate in terms of complete resection of the tumor. We did not observe a significant effect of patients' gender and age on the clinical outcome in the studied sample of the population.
Minimal Invasive Surgery for Chronic Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Rahman Hanif-ur- , Amir Sohail , Ali Mumtaz , Ayub Shahid , Sundal Anisa , Ishaq Muhammad
Published: January 2022

Objective:  To assess significant improvement in terms of the Glasgow Coma Scale in patients subjected to minimally invasive surgery for a chronic subdural hematoma.

Materials and Methods:  A total of 80 patients with chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) were enrolled in a sequential fashion using a retrospective study design. The patients were treated with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and assessed at the end of the 2nd postoperative day (POD) for any significant improvement in the Glasgow coma scale (GCS).

Results:  There were 76.25% male and 23.75% female patients. A maximum number of patients (42.5%) were found with a GCS ranging from 9/15 – 11/15 (Class B) followed by Class A having GCS 12-13 (36.25%) and then Class C with GCS 5 – 8 (21.25% patients). In 86.2% and 13.7& of the patients, positive and negative outcomes were recorded. Maximum favorable surgical outcome was observed in 51-60 years of age group. In the majority of male patients, a favorable surgical outcome was reported. Similarly, a favorable surgical outcome was observed in Class B (GCS 9-11). There existed an insignificant difference between favorable surgical outcome vs. age groups, gender, and GCS class at baseline.

Conclusion:  This study found that CSDH using the MIS approach is linked to a high frequency of positive outcomes in terms of GCS improvement. A lower admission GCS score and older age are linked to a lower frequency of favorable outcomes and a higher likelihood of bad outcomes.
Assessment of Frailty Preoperatively and Loss of Independence in Elderly Surgical Patients
Authors: DIN SHAMS UD , Ahmed Ishfaq Ahmed , Ahmed Ishfaq Ahmed
Published: January 2022

Objective:  This study was aimed to determine preoperative frailty assessment screening on postoperative morbidity and postoperative loss of independence (LOI).

Materials & Methods:  A total of 100 patient’s age 65 years and older were included in this study. Edmodium Frail Scale (EFS) was used for the assessment of frailty. The surgical procedure was categorized on operative severity score, and Hierarchical Condition Category (HCC). The Chi-square test was applied to see the significant/insignificant differences between different stratified groups of patients.

Results:  The mean age of the patients was 68 years. There were 63% male and 37% female patients. Maximum patients (78%) who had no LOI were in age less than 80 years. 11% of patients who had LOI were only 11%. There existed a significant difference (p-value: 0.004) between age groups (greater than/less than 80 years) of patients and presence/absence of loss of independence (LOI). After EFS assessment, 32% of patients had limited mobility, 22% had weight loss, 19% reported depression, 9% of patients were socially dependent and 18% reported cognitive impairment. 

Conclusion:  The results suggest that frail patients older than 78 years and OSS > 3 had a more increased risk of postsurgical LOI. The patients with EFS >5 and OSS >3 had more LOI. EFS analysis explained that those patients with restricted mobility, depression, and dependent socially had increased LOI.
Outcome Comparison of Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy versus Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt in Obstructive Hydrocephalus
Authors: Ahmed Simair Ishfaque , Jawad Ali Hafiz , Qureshi Amjad , Salah-ud-Din Tarique
Published: January 2022

Background and Objectives:  To assess the outcome of Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV) versus Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt (VPS) in Obstructive Hydrocephalus in terms of infections, foreign bodies, cost-effectiveness, and length of hospital stay.

Materials and Methods:  It was a Randomized Controlled Trial study, in which 30 patients with Obstructive Hydrocephalus were divided into two groups one was treated with (ETV) and the other was treated with VP Shunt and the patients were followed up for 1 year.

Results:  Patients were divided into 2 groups, 15 were treated with ETV, and 15 were treated with VP Shunt. Length of stay for VP shunt was 7 ± 0.85 days and for ETV mean stay was 2.93 ± 1.1 days. The complication was observed in 4 (26.7%) treated with VP Shunt and in 3 (20%) patients with Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy. In ETV, 3 (20%) patients had recurrence whereas in VP shunt in 1 (6.67%) had an infection and in 3 (20%) patients had recurrence (upper-end blockage) and the overall success rate was 76% in both the procedures and in VP Shunt 73.3% and ETV 80%. Overall there were no complications found in 23 (76.6%) patients, in 3 (10%) patient’s complications were found at 1st month, in 3 (10%) complications were observed at 3rd month, and in 1(3.3%) complication was recorded at 6th month.

Conclusion:  ETV was found better in terms of length of hospital stay, cost-effectiveness as well as minimal complication rate as compared to VP shunt.
Early Neurological Outcome of Surgical Repair of Lipomyelomeningocele in Infants
Authors: Iqbal Shahid , Ijaz Lubna , Butt Jamal , Iqbal Mariyum , Nadeem Malik Muhammad
Published: January 2022

Objective:  A prospective cohort study was aimed to evaluate the early neurological outcome of surgery among infants having lipomyelomeningocele.

Material and Methods:  The study was conducted at the Department of Pediatric neurosurgery, Children Hospital &The Institute of Child Health, Lahore from January 2019 to June 2019.A total of 50 pediatric patients, both male and female, aged 3 months to 1 year, with lipomyelomeningocele (symptomatic or asymptomatic) who presented to the out-patient department were included in the study. Group A included those cases who were aged <6 months and Group B were aged >6 months. All patients underwent standard surgical procedures for the treatment of lipomyelomeningocele. 

Results:  Out of a total of 50 infants, there was 32 (64.0%) female. Overall, the mean age was 7.39 ± 2.63 months. The lumbar area having mass on the back was the most frequently seen in 23 (46.0%) infants. Group A included 20 (40.0%) infants while Group-B had 30 (60.0%). Low lying cord was the commonest neurological finding noted among 25 (50.0%). Complete Excision of Lipoma was done among 48 (96.0%) infants. Post-surgery, no significant difference was found on day-3 and day-10 between study groups (P > 0.05). Early outcome at 6-months intervals was found to be associated with significantly improved neurological function grades in Group-A (p = 0.030).

Conclusion:  Surgical management of lipomyelomeningocele is a safe procedure. An early treatment approach even in asymptomatic infants is recommended to reduce neurological deterioration.
Anxiety and Depression in Parents of Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Baloach Kamran Ali Shahani , Bhanbhro Bakhtiar Ahmed , Bharo Mumtaz Ali , Hassan Irfana , Dars Jawed Akbar , Abbas Kiran
Published: January 2022

Objectives:  To assess the occurrence of anxiety and depression in parents caring for a child with Cerebral Palsy.

Material and Methods:  A case-control study took place at the Gambat Medical Center and Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre from January 2019 to April 2021. There were two group categories; Group A served as the control group while Group B consisted of parents of children with cerebral palsy. Either the mother or father of the children was included and those parents who had more than one child were excluded from this study. They were screened for anxiety and depression using the Hospital and Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Results:  112 participants were included with 56 in each group. A parent with a cerebral palsy child had significantly higher levels of depression score on HADS compared to the control group (depression; 16.67 ± 5.24 vs. 8.39 ± 4.01; p < 0.001). Similarly, anxiety was higher in parents who had a child with cerebral palsy (p<0.001). Most of the parents with cerebral palsy had severe depression i.e., 19 (33.9%) (p < 0.001). The most common type of CP was spastic diplegic and the mean depression score for different types of CP varied between 14.33 ± 6.727 and 17.67 ± 3.055 however, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.65).

Conclusion:  The parents of children with cerebral palsy were more likely to suffer from depressive symptoms as compared to those with healthy children.