bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Film Box Office Performance using Wikipedia Edit Data
Authors: Patel Niraj
Published: January 2025

This study explores the potential of Wikipedia edit data as a predictor of opening box office revenues for films released in the US. After analyzing films from 2007 to 2011, we developed a predictive model based on Wikipedia article edits using gradient boosting trees as the primary algorithm. Our model incorporates features such as the frequency of Wikipedia edits, the size and content of article revisions, and the revenues of similar films. The results demonstrate that Wikipedia activity can serve as a rough indicator of film popularity, though the model’s predictive accuracy is limited. We find that Wikipedia-based features, particularly edit runs and content changes, significantly contribute to the model’s performance, achieving an R² of 0.54 for films released in 2012. This suggests that while Wikipedia data offers valuable insights into social interest, it is best used in conjunction with other predictors for more reliable revenue estimates.
The Influence of Functional and Green Values on Gen Z Green Product Purchases and Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Authors: Saputri Windy Eka , Hurriyati Ratih , Gunawan Theresia
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates Generation Z consumers perspective on the functional value related to their green purchase intentions and decisions, with a particular emphasis on the moderating role of green value in green product purchases. While prior studies have explored functional and green values independently, this research addresses a critical gap by examining how green value moderates the relationship between functional value and green purchasing behavior, offering new insights into sustainable consumption. The study explores how factors such as quality, usability, price, and other indicators of the usefulness of green products influence consumer purchasing behavior and purchase intentions. The research focuses on IKEA customers from the Jabodetabek area (Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, Bekasi) and Bandung, gathering data from 580 respondents, which was analyzed using SmartPLS. The findings reveal that functional value directly influences both purchasing intentions and decisions to buy green products. Additionally, the study highlights that green value significantly moderates the relationship between functional value and purchasing decisions, acting as a crucial factor that encourages consumers to purchase environmentally friendly products. These insights suggest that companies should emphasize both functional and green values to effectively boost consumers' intention to purchase green products, particularly among Generation Z.
Study of cooling system performance on lithium-ion batteries for an electric vehicle
Authors: Zúñiga-Cerroblanco José Luis , Conejo-Chavando Luis Daniel , Huerta-Gámez Héctor , Pérez-Gárcia Víctor Lauro
Published: January 2025

The acquisition of electric vehicles has grown considerably, as a result, autonomy and safety
became an opportunity for improvement, one of the main systems that involve autonomy and
safety are batteries. The safety and the performance of the batteries are directly related to the
temperature reached during charge and discharge operation. In this paper, a CFD study is carried
out on the thermal and hydrodynamic performance of a cooling system used to prevent
overheating of lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles. Air as cooling fluid is used, which
is directed towards the battery cells to remove the heat generated by each of these cells. An inline arrangement for the batteries is analyzed, different velocities and discharge rate to obtain
temperature profiles on the cell surface are used, as well a total pressure drop along the cell array.
The minimum inlet velocity which the working fluid must work to ensure adequate temperature
of the battery cells in operation is found.
Selecting a suspension system for a mini-baja vehicle
Authors: Sánchez-Lerma Josué Rafael , Cerrito-Tovar Iván De Jesús , Torres-Rico Luis Armando , Huerta-Gámez Héctor
Published: January 2025

The general objective of this work is to select a suspension system for a
mini-baja vehicle. Among the specific objectives is the development of
an analysis of the geometric and dimensional characteristics of the semiindependent suspension system and McPherson suspension system. The
type of methodology that was used had a quantitative and qualitative
approach, since it was not only intended to select the suspension system
based on mathematical data provided by the simulation, but also on
certain physical characteristics that the suspension system possesses.
This work contributes to the development of new prototypes in terms of
suspension systems, since it opens the way for competitive vehicles to
analyze the suspension system that best adapts to both the conditions of
their vehicles and the of the land itself, considering the qualitative and
quantitative analyses.
Thermodynamic and mechanical of the mezcal distillation phase using theorems and software
Authors: López-García Claudio , Valverde-Cedillo Luis Manuel , Rojas-Cruz Alin Montserrat
Published: January 2025

Mezcal Production in Mexico: Evaluating the Efficacy of Stainless Steel AISI 304 Distillation Equipment. This
cross-sectional study investigates the challenges faced by Mexico's mezcal industry, specifically the formation of
toxic methanol and vinasses during distillation. We evaluated the effectiveness of replacing traditional copper stills
with stainless steel AISI 304 equipment, utilizing computational fluid dynamics simulations (Ansys Fluent and Solid
Works Flow simulation). A 5-year study confirmed deficiencies in copper distillation, validating our prototype as a
safer, environmentally friendly alternative. Results demonstrate improved temperature and pressure control, reduced
harmful substance formation, and optimized raw material utilization. Our findings indicate that design and safety
system enhancements meet regulatory standards and quality norms governing distillation processes.
The Effect of Job Insecurity on Employee Wellbeing in Karawang Factory Employees During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Nisa Fuza Choerun , Pratiwi Endah Andriani
Published: January 2025

In 2019 an outbreak of Covid-19 appeared in Indonesia, causing several companies in various cities, including the city of Karawang, to carry out several terminations of employment to several employees to save the company from bankruptcy and keep the company running as usual. However, doing this layoff makes several employees feel worried about the fate of their future work or can be referred to as job insecurity, when employees feel that their job insecurity is working under pressure, and it makes them not prosperous at work. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of job insecurity on employee wellbeing in Karawang factory employees during the Covid-19 pandemic. The research was conducted using a quantitative method with an inductive approach. The sampling method used accidental sampling technique and obtained a sample of 100 employees who had worked at least 1 year during the Covid-19 pandemic in Karawang. The data obtained were processed using SPSS and using a simple linear regression test. The results of this study show that there is an effect of job insecurity on employee wellbeing of 40% for factory employees in Karawang during the Covid-19 pandemic. Job insecurity category is high at 65% and employee wellbeing is low at 85%.
Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation for Chronic Osteoarthritis Knee Pain in the Elderly: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sima Lei
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis of the knee (KOA) is the main cause of disability in elderly people. Patients with KOA may often not achieve adequate pain control even after receiving all treatment modalities.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to examine the efficacy of ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) as a treatment for moderate and severe KOA.

STUDY DESIGN: A prospective randomized controlled study.

SETTING: The study was performed in the National Pain Management and Research Center of China-Japan Friendship Hospital.

METHODS: Eligible participants were over 50 years old and had suffered from chronic knee joint pain for more than 6 months, scoring at least 4 on a numeric rating scale (NRS) and grade III–IV according to the Kellgren-Lawrence classification system. The target nerve selection principle was as follows: the superomedial genicular nerve (SMGN) branch and inferior medial genicular nerve (IMGN) branch of the saphenous nerve for medial knee pain, the superolateral genicular nerve (SLGN) branch of the femoral nerve for lateral pain, and the SMGN, IMGN, and SLGN branches for total knee pain. The main outcomes were the NRS pain score (including the most severe pain), the average pain, and the proportion of patients who had reached pain reduction of more than 2 points. The secondary outcome was the Western Ontario McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score. RFA at 70ºC was performed for 120 seconds per patient in the RFA group, and knee nerve blocks were performed in the control group.

RESULTS: A total of 120 patients who met the inclusion criteria were selected in this study. The treatment groups showed significant differences in their mean NRS scores and worst pain during the first, third, and sixth months after treatment. There were significant differences in the mean WOMAC pain, physical function, and total scores between the treatment groups and over time. Between the treatment groups and over time, the mean WOMAC stiffness scores were not different. At each time point after treatment, the proportion of patients who needed analgesic drugs was significantly lower in the RFA group than in the control group. Univariate analysis showed that gender, age, pain course, and body mass index were not significantly correlated with the positive rate (NRS >= 2 score reduction). After we adjusted for multiple factors, the perceived beneficial effect of therapy was less when gonarthritis was more severe (P < 0.01).

Limitation: This study’s limitation is that it was performed in only one unit of the National Pain Management and Research Center.

CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound-guided RFA applied to knee nerves can significantly reduce KOA pain, improve knee joint function, improve patient satisfaction, and provide a feasible, safe, and effective minimally invasive procedure for moderate to severe KOA in elderly patients.

KEY WORDS: Elderly, radiofrequency ablation, osteoarthritis of the knee, ultrasound-guided
A Comparison of Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques and Standard Open Discectomy for Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Network Meta-analysis
Authors: You Di
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Lumbar disc herniation is a common spinal disease that causes low back pain; surgery is required when conservative treatment is ineffective. There is a growing demand for minimally invasive surgery in younger patient populations due to their fear of significant damage and a long recovery period following standard open discectomy. The development history of minimally invasive surgery is relatively short, and no gold standard has been established.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to find, via a network meta-analysis, the best treatment for low back pain in younger patient populations.

STUDY DESIGN: Network meta-analysis.

METHODS: The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched. Data quality was evaluated using RevMan 5.3 (The Nordic Cochrane Centre for The Cochrane Collaboration), while STATA 14.0 (StataCorp LLC) was used for the network meta-analysis and to merge data on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score, complication, blood loss, reoperation rate, and function score.

RESULTS: We included 50 randomized controlled trials, involving 7 interventions; heterogeneity and inconsistency were acceptable. Comparatively, microendoscopic discectomy and percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy were the best surgical procedures from the aspects of VAS score and ODI score, while standard open discectomy was the worst one from the aspect of ODI score. Regarding complications, tubular discectomy was preferred with the fewest complications. Additionally, microendoscopic discectomy outperformed other surgical procedures in reducing blood loss and reoperation rate.

LIMITATIONS: First, follow-up data were not reported in all included studies, and the follow-up time varied from several months to 8 years, which affected the results accuracy of our study to some extent. Second, there were some nonsurgical factors that also affected the self-reported outcomes, such as rehabilitation and pain management, which also brought a certain bias in our study results.

CONCLUSIONS: Compared to standard open discectomy, minimally invasive surgical procedures not only achieve satisfactory efficacy, but also microendoscopic discectomy and percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy can obtain a more satisfactory short-term VAS score and ODI score. Microendoscopic discectomy has significant advantages in blood loss and reoperation rate, and tubular discectomy has fewer postoperative complications.

KEY WORDS: Lumbar disc herniation, minimally invasive surgery, standard open discectomy, Visual Analog Scale, Oswestry Disability Index, complication, blood loss, reoperation rate, function score, network meta-analysis
Stellate Ganglion Block Therapy for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xing JunLing
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Sympathetic ganglion block (SGB) technique is becoming increasingly prevalent in the treatment of complex regional pain syndromes (CRPS). Given the varied reported effectiveness of these techniques and the heterogeneity of treatment regimens, there is an urgent need for consistent and high-quality evidence on the efficacy and safety of such procedures.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of SGB therapy for CRPS-related pain.

STUDY DESIGN: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS: PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, US National Institutes of Health Clinical Trials Registry, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library Databases were systematically searched between January 1967 and April 2023. A meta-analysis of the included RCTs on SGB was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and risk of bias (ROBs) of SGB.

RESULTS: After screening 8523 records, 12 RCTs were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with controls, the visual analog pain score decreased by a weighted mean difference (WMD) of -6.24 mm (95% CI, -11.45, -1.03; P = 0.019) in the random-effects model, and the numerical scale score was reduced by a WMD of -1.17 mm (95% CI, -2.42, 0.08; P = 0.067) in the fixed-effects model, indicating a pain relief. The methodological quality of the included RCTs was high, with an average PEDro score of 7.0 (range: 5-9).

LIMITATIONS: The number of included trials was limited.

CONCLUSIONS: SGB therapy can reduce pain intensity in patients with CRPS with few adverse events. However, owing to the relatively high heterogeneity of the included RCTs, a larger sample of high-quality RCTs is needed to further confirm this conclusion.

KEY WORDS: Complex regional pain syndrome, stellate ganglion block, lumbar sympathetic nerve block, pain management, efficacy
Short-Term Supraorbital Nerve Stimulation and Pain Relief for Acute and Subacute Ophthalmic Herpetic Neuralgia: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial
Authors: Tao Song
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) is a kind of refractory disease, and treating it is important for preventing postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). But the evidence surrounding the current treatment options for these conditions is controversial, so exploring reasonable clinical treatment strategies for HZO is necessary. Neuromodulation is an excellent modality for the treatment of various neuropathic pain conditions. This trial was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of short-term supraorbital nerve stimulation (SNS) and the supraorbital nerve block (SNB) for HZO.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether short-term SNS relieves acute and subacute ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia.

STUDY DESIGN: This prospective randomized controlled crossover trial compared short-term SNS to SNB.

Setting: The operating room of a pain clinic.

METHODS: Patients with acute or subacute ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia were recruited. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either SNS or SNB. The primary outcome being measured was each patient’s Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score at 4 weeks. The secondary outcomes under measurement were the proportion of patients who achieved >= 50% pain relief, sleep quality, medicine consumption, and adverse events. Crossover after 4 weeks was permitted, and patients were followed up to 12 weeks.

RESULTS: Overall, 50 patients were included (n = 25/group). At 4 weeks, the patients who received SNS achieved greater pain relief, as indicated by their significantly different VAS scores from those of the SNB group (mean difference: -1.4 [95% CI, -2.29 to -0.51], P < 0.05). Both groups showed a significant decrease in pain level from the baseline (all P < 0.05). Overall, 72% and 44% of the SNS and SNB patients experienced >= 50% pain relief, respectively (OR: 0.31 [95% CI, 0.09 to 0.99], P < 0.05), and 68% and 32% of SNS and SNB patients, respectively, had VAS scores < 3 (OR: 0.22 [95% CI, 0.07 to 0.73], P < 0.05). Compared to the SNB group, the SNS group had better sleep quality, lower ophthalmic neuralgia, a lower proportion of further treatment, and lower analgesic intake. Overall, 18 patients received SNS alone, and 16 patients crossed over from SNB to SNS. The VAS scores, sleep quality, ophthalmic neuralgia, and trend of medicine intake were not significantly different between the groups (all P > 0.05). No serious complications occurred.

LIMITATIONS: This study was nonblind.

CONCLUSIONS: Short-term SNS is effective for controlling acute or subacute ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia. Combining SNS with SNB yields no additional benefits.

KEY WORDS: Herpes zoster ophthalmicus, postherpetic neuralgia, ophthalmic herpetic neuralgia, supraorbital nerve, neuromodulation, peripheral nerve stimulation, supraorbital nerve stimulation, supraorbital nerve block
Targeted Nerve Root Stimulation Alleviates Intractable Chronic Limb Pain Associated with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome - A Prospective Multi-Center Feasibility Study
Authors: Cedeno David L.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: There are limited therapeutic options to treat complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Spinal cord stimulation and dorsal root ganglion stimulation are proven therapies for treating chronic low limb pain in CRPS patients. There is limited evidence that stimulation of dorsal nerve roots can also provide relief of lower limb pain in these patients.

OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate that electrical stimulation of dorsal nerve roots via epidural lead placement provides relief of chronic lower limb pain in patients suffering from CRPS.

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, open label, single arm, multi-center study.

SETTING: The study was performed at the Center for Interventional Pain and Spine (Exton, PA), Millennium Pain Center (Bloomington, IL), and the Carolinas Pain Center (Huntersville, NC). It was approved by the Western Institutional Review Board-Copernicus Group Institutional Review Board and is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03954080).

METHODS: Sixteen patients with intractable chronic severe lower limb pain associated with CRPS were enrolled in the study. A standard trial period to evaluate a patients’ response to stimulation of the dorsal nerve roots was conducted over 3 to 10-days. Patients that obtained 50% or greater pain relief during the trial period underwent permanent implantation of a neurostimulation system. The primary outcome was the evaluated pain level after 3 months of device activation, based on NRS pain score relative to baseline. Patients were followed up for 6 months after activation of the permanently implanted system.

RESULTS: At the primary endpoint, patients reported a significant (P = 0.0006) reduction in pain of 3.3 points, improvement in quality of life, improved neuropathic pain characteristics, improved satisfaction, and an overall perception of improvement with the therapy. Improvements were sustained throughout the duration of the study up to the final 6-month visit.

LIMITATIONS: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic occurring during patient enrollment, only 16 patients were enrolled and trialed, with 12 being permanently implanted. Nine were able to complete the end of study evaluation at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS: The results of this short feasibility study confirm the functionality, effectiveness, and safety of intraspinal stimulation of dorsal nerve roots in patients with intractable chronic lower limb pain due to CRPS using commercially approved systems and conventional parameters.

KEY WORDS: Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), dorsal nerve root (DNR), neuromodulation, lower extremities chronic pain
Predictors of a Successful Outcome Following a Thoracic Erector Spinae Plane Block for Cervical Radiculopathy
Authors: Hong Ji H.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is an interfascial plane block for managing neuropathic thoracic pain. Although the ESPB is applied widely in various clinical situations, no studies have evaluated the association between the analgesic outcomes of the ESPB and the numerical changes in the perfusion index (PI) and PI ratio.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to investigate the association between the clinical response following ESPB and other possible factors, including changes in the PI and PI ratio.

STUDY DESIGN: A prospective, nonrandomized, and open-label study.

SETTING: The pain clinic of a tertiary university hospital.

METHODS: This study included 92 patients with neck or arm pain who received T2 ESPB using 20 mL of 0.2% ropivacaine. To aid in the prediction of clinical outcomes, the PI was measured at the blocked side for 30 minutes as soon as the ESPB was finished. Various demographic data were also analyzed to predict the clinical outcomes.

RESULTS: Among 92 patients, 59 patients (64%) showed successful treatment outcomes (> 50% reduction in the numerical rating scale score or > 30% reduction in the neck disability index). The baseline PI of the responders was statistically higher than the nonresponders’ (P < 0.05). Also, the responders’ PI demonstrated statistically higher values than the nonresponders’ at the time points of 4, 6, and 8 minutes after the ESPB. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a higher baseline PI (OR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.27-2.86; P = 0.002) was an independent factor associated with a successful outcome.

LIMITATIONS: Only a small number of patients with nonspinal diseases were included, except for those who had cervical radiculopathy. Therefore, it is hard to conclude that thoracic ESPB has any therapeutic benefits to patients with nonspinal diseases such as complex regional pain syndrome, adhesive capsulitis, or post-thoracotomy pain syndrome.

CONCLUSION: A successful outcome at 4 weeks after T2 ESPB was achieved in 64% of patients with cervical radiculopathy. A higher baseline PI value was an independent factor associated with a successful response to T2 ESPB.

KEY WORDS: Erector spinae plane block, perfusion index, numerical rating scale, Neck Disability Index
Posterior Sacroiliac Fusion Surgery: A Retrospective Single Center Study
Authors: Shekoohi Sahar
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Chronic sacroiliitis has variable etiologies with numerous treatments of varying efficacy. In recent years, a novel posterior approach utilizing bone matrix has been developed although to date, there is limited data in the literature regarding efficacy and safety through this approach. Benefits described include reduced adverse outcomes and quicker recovery when compared to the lateral approach.

OBJECTIVE: The present investigation focused on sacroiliac joint fusion through the posterior approach and outcomes including disability, pain, and use of analgesics post-surgery.

STUDY DESIGN: This retrospective, single-center study was conducted evaluating safety and efficacy of sacroiliac fusion allograft implants (LinQ Implant System from PainTEQ; PsiF System from Omnia Medical).

METHODS: A total of 72 posterior approach sacroiliac joint fusions were performed. Fifty-three individuals were enrolled and followed at LSU Health Shreveport as the sole investigational site between August 2020 and June 2024. Selected participant age ranged between 28 and 79 years, with a mean age of 53.4 years. The LinQ Implant System was the primary surgical hardware selected for implantation (83.0%), with the PsiF System chosen in the remaining cases.

OUTCOME MEASURES: VAS Scores, disability changes, adverse outcomes, and analgesic use were compared after sacroiliac joint fusion via the posterior approach.

RESULTS: Mean VAS Scores for SIJ Pain Intensity significantly decreased by 3.6 cm from a baseline score of 9.5 cm by the Specified End (June 1st, 2024). In this regard, 65.4% of patients experienced a 20% or greater improvement in pain, 38.5% of patients experienced a 50% or greater improvement in pain, and 26.9% of patients experienced a 70% or greater improvement in pain. Zero (0) procedure-related adverse events nor intra- or post-operative complications occurred throughout the duration of the investigation.

LIMITATIONS: Retrospective nature of the study without a control group. Fifty-four percent (39 of 72) completed minimum one year follow up. Further, the withdrawal rate was 26%.

CONCLUSION: The results of the present investigation demonstrated effective outcomes with minimal adverse effects and improvements in disability over a three-year period in the largest single center study to date involving posterior approach sacroiliac joint fusion.

KEY WORDS: Sacroiliac joint fusion, posterior approach, sacroiliitis, pain, disability, lower back pain
Heeding Pain’s Prescription
Authors: Giordano James , Shook John R.
Published: January 2025

Newer definitions of pain remain suggestive of categorization by mainly neurological or psychological bases. All pain recruits cortical interpretation for any sort of directive effects in awareness, attention, and action. That unity of purpose in pain’s multi-pathway manifestations can inspire neurophilosophical reflections on the existentiality, subjectivity, and sociality of pain. Pain is neither so subjective as to be relieved of meaning, nor so objective that multi-modal approaches can take turns at targeting its relief. The problem of objectifying the subjective is essential for addressing issues of assessing and treating pain. Integrative plans for pain care make sense if and when all aspects of pain’s character are deemed to be integral, and are actually integrated in both theory in practice. A standpoint on the “entity-identity” of pain afflicting the whole person implies that pain is expressed behaviorally and as articulately as circumstances permit. Pain speaks, even for those not able to speak, as their patterns of brain activity may be representative of pain. Heeding pain’s prescriptive voice requires collective interpretations before attempting coordinated treatments. Pain’s prescription will remain unfilled until its full reality is recognized at a personal level, where comprehensive care is mobilized for the whole patient. Heeding pain looks to the central figure that is never absent from any painful situation, namely the individual person-in-pain. That holistic and humanistic value to mobilizing resources against pain should be reflected in the practice of pain medicine, and the craft of the pain physician.

KEY WORDS: Acute pain, chronic pain, nociception, nociperception, brain, subjectivity, neuroscience, neurophilosophy
Comparison of the Clinical Efficacy and Bone Cement Distribution Difference Between Kummell’s Disease and Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture After Percutaneous Kyphoplasty
Authors: Wang Song
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Kummell’s disease (KD) and osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) are commonly found in patients with osteoporosis. Several studies have been conducted on bone cement distribution in OVCF or KD; a comparison between the 2 diseases is rarely reported.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the clinical efficacy and bone cement distribution difference between KD and OVCFs after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP).

STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective, nonrandomized controlled study.

SETTING: Department of Orthopedics from an affiliated hospital.

METHODS: From January 2018 to December 2020, 61 patients who underwent PKP surgery for single KD or OVCF and met the inclusion criteria were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were assigned to 2 groups: the KD group and the OVCF group. Clinical and radiologic characteristics, including the bone cement volume, leakage, bone cement dispersion scale, anterior vertebral height (AVH), median vertebral height (MVH), posterior vertebral height (PVH), Cobb angle and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were analyzed and compared using Mimics three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction images and 3D reconstruction computed tomography, preoperatively, postoperatively, and 2 years after the operation, respectively. The correlations between the bone cement dispersion scale and the VH improvement rate (VHIR), VH change rate (VHCR), VAS improvement rate (VASIR), and follow-up VAS improvement rate (f-VASIR) were also evaluated.

RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 24.0 months. Postoperative VH, Cobb angle, vertebra volume, and VAS score were significantly improved in the 2 groups (P < 0.05). There was no statistical difference in postoperative parameters between the 2 groups. While a strong positive correlation between VHIR and bone cement dispersion scale was observed in the OVCF group (P < 0.01), no significant correlation between VHIR and bone cement dispersion scale was found in the KD group. There was no correlation between VASIR and bone cement dispersion scale in both groups. Compared with postoperation, VH was lower in both groups in later follow-up, and the difference between the 2 groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). VH, VAS, f-VASIR, and VHCR had a worse manifestation in the KD group than in the OVCF group. However, no significant correlation was found between VHCR, f-VASIR, and bone cement dispersion scale in the 2 groups.

LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by the non-randomized design, small sample size, and lack of a comprehensive follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS: Although there was no significant difference in the bone cement distribution and early clinical efficacy between KD and OVCF patients under the same surgical plan and surgeon, OVCF patients exhibited better long-term radiologic and clinical outcomes.

KEY WORDS: Kummell’s disease, osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, percutaneous kyphoplasty, bone cement distribution
Evaluation and Treatment of Sacroiliac Joint Pain in Patients with History of Vertebral Compression Fractures: A Retrospective Case Series
Authors: Umer Ibrahim M.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) can affect the entire spinopelvic complex and cause unpredictable patterns of back pain due to their effects on spinal tensegrity and biomechanical compensation. They can lead to significant morbidity and mortality in the aging population and are difficult to diagnose. We aimed to establish a relationship between VCFs and sacroiliac (SI) joint pain.

OBJECTIVES: Demonstration of SI joint (SIJ) pain relief at up to 6 months after kyphoplasty (KP) in patients with VCFs and diagnosed SI dysfunction.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study.

SETTING: All patients were from a private chronic pain and orthopedics practice in the northeastern United States.

METHODS: Fifty-one patients with VCFs diagnosed through imaging and SIJ dysfunction diagnosed through 2 diagnostic SIJ blocks who had failed conservative management were considered for KP. Numeric Rating Scale (NRS 11) scores were recorded at the baseline, after each SIJ block, and at 4 weeks and then 6 months after KP.

RESULTS: Forty-nine patients underwent KP. At 4 weeks after the procedure, there was an 84% average reduction in NRS scores from the baseline (P < 0.01). At 6 months after the procedure, there was an 80% reduction in NRS scores from the baseline (P < 0.01).

LIMITATIONS: Larger sample sizes and a randomized control trial would be important steps in furthering the relationship between VCFs and SIJ.

CONCLUSION: VCFs can cause a referred pain pattern to the SIJ that is best treated by KP for long-term management.

KEY WORDS: Vertebral compression fracture, sacroiliac joint, vertebral augmentation, kyphoplasty, referred pain, axial pain, spinal tensegrity, lower back pain
Balloon Pressure and Clinical Effectiveness of Percutaneous Microballoon Compression in the Treatment of Primary Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: He Yunwu
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Primary trigeminal neuralgia (PTN) is a type of chronic neuropathic pain disorder caused by neurovascular compression. Percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) is a widely used method for the treatment of PTN.

OBJECTIVES: To examine the correlation of balloon pressure (BP) during percutaneous microballoon compression (PBC) with postoperative pain relief and complications in the treatment of primary trigeminal neuralgia (PTN).

STUDY DESIGN: Forty-five patients diagnosed with PTN and treated with PBC were recruited. The BP was recorded at 2 time points: when the balloon achieved the ideal pear shape (initial BP [IBP]) and when the pressure was maintained for 2 min (final BP [FBP]).

SETTING: This study was conducted at the Department of Pain and Rehabilitation of the Second Affiliated Hospital at the University of South China in Hunan, China.

METHODS: The patients’ Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain intensity score, BNI facial numbness score, masticatory muscle weakness score, and recurrence were recorded before and after surgery. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated for the IBP to predict treatment effectiveness, severe facial numbness, and severe masticatory muscle weakness.

RESULTS: The BNI pain intensity score, BNI facial numbness score, and masticatory muscle weakness score were significantly decreased after surgery (all P < 0.001). IBP was positively correlated with the difference between IBP and FBP (P < 0.01). Both IBP and the difference between IBP and FBP were negatively correlated with the BNI pain intensity score and positively correlated with the BNI facial numbness score and masticatory muscle weakness score (P < 0.01). The IBP and the difference between the IBP and FBP were significantly lower in patients experiencing recurrence than in the nonrecurrent group (P < 0.05). The areas under the ROC curves of the IBP for predicting effective pain relief, severe facial numbness, and severe masticatory muscle weakness were 0.875, 0.980, and 0.988, respectively.

LIMITATIONS: The sample size was relatively small, and the follow-up time was short. The correlations between the BP and other factors, such as filling amount, Meckel’s cavity, and the size of the foramen ovale, were not investigated. The impact of the BP on long-term postoperative outcomes was not explored.

CONCLUSIONS: An intraoperative BP of 138.65–153.90 KPa can be maintained for effective PBC treatment without causing serious complications.

KEY WORDS: Balloon pressure, clinical effectiveness, complications, facial numbness, microballoon compression, muscle weakness, receiver operating characteristic curves, trigeminal neuralgia
Trainee Insight into Pain Fellowship Programs: A Critical Evaluation of the Current Educational System by the APPD
Authors: Wahezi Sayed Emal
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Since 1992, when the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) acknowledged pain medicine as a subspecialty, the field has experienced significant growth in its number of programs, diversity of sponsoring specialties, treatment algorithms, and popularity among applicants. These shifts prompted changes to the educational model, overseen by program directors (PDs) and the ACGME. The pool of pain fellowship applicants also changed during that period.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate trainees’ reasons for applying to pain medicine fellowship programs as well as the applicants’ specific expectations, interests, and motivations, thereby contributing to the remodeling and universal improvement of programs across the country.

STUDY DESIGN: Online survey via SurveyMonkey. The online questionnaire targeted pain fellowship applicants in 2023 and current fellows in the US.

METHODS: Our study was designed by board members of the Association of Pain Program Directors (APPD). The board disseminated a survey to those who applied to ACGME Pain Medicine fellowships in 2023 as well as to existing fellows. The survey was emailed to residency and fellowship PDs for dissemination to their trainees. The participants answered a 12-question survey on their reasons for pursuing pain medicine fellowships, expectations of and beyond those fellowships, and educational adjustments.

RESULTS: There were 283 survey participants (80% applicants in residency training and 20% fellows). Participants ranked basic interventional procedures and a strong desire to learn advanced procedures as the most significant factors in pursuing a pain fellowship. Most trainees (70%) did not wish to pursue a 2-year fellowship, and 50% desired to go into private practice.

LIMITATIONS: The relatively small number of respondents is a limitation that could introduce sampling error. Since most of the respondents were from the fields of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) and anesthesia, the use of convenience sampling reduced our ability to generalize the results to the wider community. Furthermore, approximately 80% of the trainees were residents, who might have had less experience in or knowledge of the survey’s particulars than did the fellows.

CONCLUSION: This survey demonstrated that procedural volume and diversity were important factors in trainees’ decisions to apply to the field of pain medicine; however, extending the duration of a pain fellowship was not an option survey participants favored. Therefore, PDs and educational stakeholders in pain fellowship training need to develop creative strategies to maintain competitive applicants’ interest while they adapt to our evolving field.

KEY WORDS: Graduate medical education, competency-based medical education, multidisciplinary, chronic pain, pain medicine, fellows
TINJAUAN YURIDIS DALAM PENGEMBALIAN KERUGIAN NEGARA DALAM TINDAK PIDANA KORUPSI JURIDICAL REVIEW IN STATE RETURN OF LOSSES IN CRIMINAL ACTS OF CORRUPTION
Authors: Virgin Ocha , Azarin Innes Febrina
Published: January 2025

Korupsi merupakan suatu perbuatan atau perilaku yang menyimpang dengan tugas dan kewajiban untuk mendapat keuntungan yang bertentangan dengan kebenaran sesuai dengan hukum. Korupsi dapat kita katakan sebagai suatu perbuatan yang tercela dan merugikan masyarakat maupun negara. Mekanisme pengembalian kerugian negara dalam kasus tindak pidana korupsi dapat dilakukan dengan jalur pidana, perdata dan administratif. Pengembalian Kerugian negara melalui jalur pidana dengan prosedur (1) Penelusuran harta kekayaan, (2) Penyitaan asset/harta kekayaan, (3) Penuntutan uang pengganti, dan (4) eksekusi dalam putusan hakim. Pengembalian kerugian Negara melalui jalur perdata dapat dilakukan apabila tersangka kasus pidana korupsi meninggal dunia dan dilakukan penuntutan terhadap ahli waris melalui jalur perdata. Pengembalian kerugian negara melalui jalur administrated dilakukan kepada pegawai negeri sipil dengan ketentuan-ketentuan tertentu dan mekanisme tertentu. Banyak kendala yang menghambat proses pengembalian kerugian negara diantaranya (1) sanksi tuntutan uang pengganti yang dapat digantikan dengan pidana penjara, (2) ketimpangan yang berkaitan dengan undang-undang dalam pemberantasan korupsi.
“A Study to Assess Effectiveness of Progressive Muscle Relaxation Technique on Reduction of Stress among Patients with Breast Cancer Admitted in Selected Cancer Hospitals of Bagalkot’’
Authors: Hiremath Mrs. Manjula I. , D Mr. Prafulla Kumar , Natekar Dr. Deelip S
Published: January 2025

Background: Breast cancer is one of the major disease conditions. Majority of the breast cancer patients won’t go for proper treatment and it may leads to multiple complications. Hence the researcher developed an Progressive muscle relaxation technique on reduction of stress among Breast cancer patients. The researcher interested to conduct an experimental study with an aim towards reduction of stress among Breast cancer patients. Objectives: 1) To assess the pre test and post test level of stress among Breast cancer patients. 2) To evaluate the effectiveness of Progressive muscle relaxation in reducing stress among Breast cancer patients. 3) To find out association between the post test level of stress among patients with their selected socio demographic variables. Methodology: The Quasi experimental one group pre test post test design with sample 50 Breast cancer patients was selected by Probability simple random sampling technique. Structured questionnaire was used to collect baseline information, perceived stress scale, and the data analysis is done by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The finding related to significance of difference between the level of pre test stress score and post test score revealed that there is a statistically difference was found. [t=6.3466(p value=0.0001), p<0.05]. A Significant association was found between stress score of Age, Occupation, Marital status and Number of chemotherapy. No significant association found between stress score and other socio demographic variables. Conclusion: The study proved that administration of Progressive muscle relaxation technique on reduction of stress among Breast cancer patients, was effective, scientific and logical.
Diagnostic Use of Ultrasonography for Acute Appendicitis: A Single Centre Experiences
Authors: Podder Biplab Kumar , Alam ABM Manirul , Saha Panna Lal , Paul Fonindra Nath , Sardar Dr. Anirudha
Published: January 2025

Background: Acute appendicitis is a common and urgent surgical condition characterized by inflammation of the appendix. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is critical to prevent complications such as perforation. Ultrasonography has emerged as a valuable diagnostic tool due to its non-invasive nature, accessibility, and effectiveness in visualizing appendiceal inflammation. Aim of the study: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of appendicitis. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at 250 Beded general hospital Tangail, Bangladesh from 1/1/23 to 31/12/23. Ninety-five patients aged 15 to 60 years with acute appendicitis and right lower quadrant pain were included after obtaining informed consent. The hospital's review committee granted ethical approval. Data collection involved comprehensive clinical, radiological, and surgical evaluations using a standardized protocol. High-resolution abdominal ultrasonography was performed with the graded compression technique by experienced radiologists. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed through sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV calculations. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, with significance at p<0.05. Result: The study included 95 participants, with a mean age of 28.57 years. Most were aged 15-20 (46.32%), and 58.95% were male. Pain was universally reported, with anorexia (85.26%), fever and nausea (65.26%), and vomiting (52.63%) being common. Peri-umbilical pain shifting to the right iliac fossa (RIF) was noted in 49.47%. Pain lasted 18-24 hours in 35.79% of cases. Pulse rate was ≤100/min in 75.79% of patients, with 61.05% having body temperatures between 98.6-100°F. Localized tenderness was present in 70.53% of patients. High-resolution ultrasonograms diagnosed acute appendicitis in 60% of cases with a sensitivity of 85.5% and specificity of 83.3%. Conclusion: High-resolution ultrasonography (HRUS) is an effective diagnostic tool for acute ...
Brown Tumor of the Maxilla in Patient with Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Walha Omar , Slim Afef , Garma Maroua , Khalifa Chaima , Sioud, Sameh , Hentati Hajer , Hamdi Habib
Published: January 2025

Brown tumors are osteolytic lesions that rarely indicate hyperparathyroidism. They usually occur in the terminal stage of primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism. Over the past three decades, the diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism has often been made during the asymptomatic phase, thanks to systematic calcium and parathyroid hormone levels. We report the case of a patient with primary hyperparathyroidism revealed by a maxillary tumor, whose CT scan revealed an aggressive osteolytic process. The anatomopathological examination revealed a benign giant cell tumor of the maxilla. The diagnosis of a brown tumor was suggested and confirmed after a phosphocalcic workup indicated hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia. The etiological investigation revealed a right retro-thyroid nodule on cervical ultrasound, which after biopsy excision of the right inferior parathyroid gland confirmed the presence of a right inferior parathyroid adenoma, associated with homolateral lobectomy. A parathyroid hormone level of 1178 pmol/L (18 times the normal level) confirmed the diagnosis. This case study highlights the challenges in accurately diagnosing patients with osteolytic processes in the maxilla and underscores the necessity of investigating hyperparathyroidism in the presence of a giant cell lesion, given the insidious nature of this condition.
Durvalumab as consolidation therapy in patients who received chemoradiotherapy for unresectable stage III NSCLC: Real-world data from an expanded access program in Brazil (LACOG 0120)
Authors: Zukin1 Mauro , Gondim2 Victor , Kazumi Shimada3 Andrea , Magalhães e Abreu Lima4 Ellias , Mathias5,6 Clarissa , Fernandes Barra7 Williams , William Junior8,9 William Nassib , Padoan2 Mônica , Bittencourt3 Yuri , Yamamura8 Rosely , Baston Silva10 Carlos Eduardo , de Jesus Rossato11 Letícia , de Almeida Monteiro1 Caio , Gomes de Jesus12 Rafaela , Gössling12 Gustavo , Zimmer Gelatti13 Ana Caroline
Published: January 2025

Objective: The PACIFIC trial established standard therapy for patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC who did not progress after platinum-based concurrent chemoradiation therapy. However, real-world data, particularly from Latin America, remain limited. The LACOG 0120 study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of consolidation therapy with durvalumab in a real-world setting in Brazil. Methods: Patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC who received chemoradiotherapy followed by durvalumab consolidation therapy through an expanded access program were evaluated. The primary objective was to assess progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), treatment compliance, and safety, with a focus on the incidence and severity of immune-mediated adverse events (NCT04948411). Results: Thirty-one patients from seven centers were evaluated. Median follow-up was 50.3 months (95% CI: 48.6–54.4). Median PFS was 9.9 months (95% CI: 7.3–52.4), with a 36 month-PFS of 34.5% (95% CI: 17.7–52.1). Median OS was 34.9 months (95% CI: 26.0–NR), and the 36 month-OS was 46.3% (95% CI: 25.7–64.6). Durvalumab was administered for a median of 17 cycles (10 to 24), with 45.2% of patients completing the planned therapy. The main reason for discontinuation was disease progression. Treatment-related adverse events of any grade occurred in 12 patients (38.7%), with grade 3 events reported in two (6.5%). Pneumonitis was observed in 4 patients (12.9%) – grade 3 in 1 patient. Conclusions: PFS was lower in this analysis compared to the PACIFIC trial; however, OS was similar, indicating comparable efficacy in a real-world setting among Brazilian patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC. No new safety concerns were identified.