bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Fetal Attachment, Anxiety, Stress, and Worry in Unintended Pregnancies in the Primary Care Center in Southern Iran
Authors: Tahmasebi Hajar , Nimota Ruth Nukpezah , Fournier Andrew , Marznaki Zohreh Hosseini , Parviniannasab Ali Mohammad , Keshavarzi Fatemeh
Published: January 2025

Background:

Despite the prevalence of unintended pregnancies, little is known about the connections between psychosocial and sociodemographic characteristics. This study explored the predictors of fetal attachment, worry, anxiety, and stress in unintended pregnancies.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on 229 father and mother pairs from two primary healthcare centers in Fars province in southern Iran. Data were collected in a face-to-face survey using the Parents Fetal Attachment Scale, Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Cambridge Worry Scale (CWS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Parental Worry Scale. The participants were selected using the two-stage random cluster sampling method from November 2022 to February 2023. Data were analyzed in SPSS software using binary logistic and multiple linear regression tests.

Results:

According to the findings, education level and previous parenting experience were found to have a statistically significant effect on the attachment levels of mothers (F4,224 = 5.14; p < 0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the perceived stress of mothers and fathers (p > 0.05). Previous parenting experience significantly affected mothers’ anxiety (odd ratio: 3.20; p < 0.05). The age variable had a significant relationship with the mothers’ perceived stress (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

According to the results, unwanted pregnancy had a significant relationship with fetal attachment, anxiety, stress, and worry. It is recommended that to enhance the mental health of couples who have experienced unintended pregnancy, a platform should be provided for the development of their psychosocial environment.
Comparison of Stress, Anxiety, and Depression Levels in Nurses in Specialized and General Ward
Authors: Khani Mahdi , Ahmadi Fazlollah , Rasekhi AliAkbar , Mohammadpour Yousef
Published: January 2025

Background:

Nurses are exposed to higher stress, anxiety, and depression due to the nature of their work. Considering the differences between specialized and general hospital units, this article focuses on comparing the levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among nurses in these two types of units.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2023 on 135 nurses in specialized units and 219 nurses in general units selected through stratified random sampling out of 1681 nurses. For this study, 6 public hospitals in the West Azerbaijan province of Iran were selected. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire and the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21) and analyzed using SPSS software. A significance level of 0.05 was considered for this study.

Results:

This study reported that stress, anxiety, and depression affected 72.04%, 46.33%, and 53.68% of nurses, respectively, with mild to extremely-severe intensity levels. No significant differences were observed in stress, anxiety, and depression between specialized and general units (p > 0.05). Among specialized units (ICU, CCU, and dialysis ward), dialysis unit nurses had significantly lower depression scores (p < 0.05). Additionally, a significant correlation existed between demographic variables and DASS-21 constructs (p > 0.05).

Conclusions:

The similarities among nurses in specialized and general units outweigh the observed differences. Given the high prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression among nurses and the negative correlation with job satisfaction, managers should improve job satisfaction to support nurses’ mental health.
Investigating the Impact of the Direct Observation of Procedural Skills Assessment on the Learning and Satisfaction of the Operating Room Students of Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Iran, in 2022
Authors: Ebrahimpour-Sadagheyani Hassan , Saadati Seyede M. , Tatari Farin
Published: January 2025

Background:

The assessment of learners is a fundamental element in medical science curricula. The Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) exam is a valuable way to assess clinical skills. The present study aimed to assess the clinical skills of operating room students of Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Iran, using the DOPS exam, and determine the effect of the exam on the learning and satisfaction of the learners.

Materials and Methods:

The current study was a semi-experimental study that used a single-group posttest study design. The statistical sample included 30 operating room students. The 5 skills were selected for assessment and the assessment checklist was designed by the researcher and approved by the expert panel. Moreover, 3 researcher-made questionnaires were used to examine the students’ skills and opinions regarding facilitating learning and their satisfaction with the DOPS examination. Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and Wilcoxon tests were used to analyze the data.

Results:

The results showed that there was a significant difference between the scores of the students in the first and second examinations (z = -4.243, p < 0.001), and the students› scores increased significantly on the second examination. The learners were satisfied with the way the DOPS exam was conducted, and their satisfaction score of this exam was 90.7 out of 120. Furthermore, students agreed that this exam affected learning facilitation. Their score on the effectiveness of this exam was 93.9/120.

Conclusions:

Although the DOPS examination is one of the clinical assessment methods for learners, it can be used as an instructional tool in the learning process.
The Effect of The Mental Health Literacy Promotion Program on Emotion Regulation Strategies of Family Caregivers of Patients with Chronic Psychiatric Disorders in Isfahan, Iran
Authors: Pirallahi Zeynab , Alavi Mousa , Akbari Mohammad , Aliyari Najme
Published: January 2025

Background:

Emotion regulation strategies help family caregivers of chronic psychiatric patients to manage caring behaviors. However, evidence pointed out problems and therefore a need to execute respective programs to improve emotion regulation for caregivers. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of mental health literacy promotion programs on emotion regulation strategies of family caregivers of chronic psychiatric patients.

Materials and Methods:

This is a clinical trial study, with two-group pretest–post-test design with a follow-up period conducted in 2023. Sixty family caregivers of chronic psychiatric patients were randomly allocated to intervention control groups. Data collection was done using a demographic characteristics questionnaire and Gross and John’s Emotion Regulation Scale. The mental health literacy promotion program was implemented for the intervention group in six sessions weekly. Immediately and 1 month after the last meeting, the questionnaires were completed. The data were analyzed using Chi-squared and Fisher’s exact tests, Mann–Whitney test, and analysis of covariance by SPSS-22. The significance level was set to 0.05.

Results:

The results showed that the frequency distribution of demographic variables in the control and test groups had no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05). The intervention had significant effects on the mean score of emotion regulation strategies, and its subscales included re-evaluation and suppression of family caregivers of chronic psychiatric patients in both the post-test and follow-up periods (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

According to improving the emotion regulation of family caregivers of chronic psychiatric patients through the mental health literacy promotion program, it is suggested to use this program to achieve the desired emotion regulation.
The Effect of an Educational Program Based on Behavioral Intention Model on Childbearing in Women During the Covid 19 Pandemic
Authors: Seifi Somayeh , Kohan Shahnaz , Boroumandfar Zahra
Published: January 2025

Background:

Currently, fertility and childbearing rates in Iran are below the replacement level (1.2 children), and Iranian families have a low propensity to have children. The COVID-19 pandemic will also have a negative impact on the decision of couples to have children. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effectiveness of an educational program on women’s childbearing intention under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

This study was a clinical trial with a pretest–posttest design, conducted on 80 women (control group = 40 and intervention group = 40) in comprehensive health centers in 2019. The educational program was delivered to the intervention group in 3 sessions. The data collection tools included the Attitudes to Fertility and Childbearing Scale (AFCS), Demographic Information Questionnaire, and researcher-made fertility intention questionnaire. Data were analyzed using t-test, Mann–Whitney, Chi-square test, ANOVA, Bonferroni post hoc test, and Wilcoxon test.

Results:

The women in the intervention group were in the age range of 18 to 44 years and in the control group were in the age range of 19 to 44 years. The results showed that the mean scores of attitude toward fertility and intention to have children after training were significantly different between the two groups. However, after the training, it was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (F1,67 = 1037, p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

It seems that the implementation of the use of theoretical models can be effective in the informed decision of families, especially women, for childbearing.
Effect of Web-Based Education on Self-efficacy and Self-care Ability in Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Vatmasari Ratih Arum , Putra Kuswantoro Rusca , Windarwati Heni
Published: January 2025

Background:

Self-care prevents rehospitalization and reduces mortality from heart failure. The self-care of heart failure patients is influenced by their sense of self-efficacy. Traditional educational methods are time-consuming, require patients to meet with health experts, and frequently cannot be accessed remotely. A web-based educational platform might be one of the innovations included in the development of health education for people with heart failure. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of web-based education on self-efficacy and self-care ability in heart failure patients.

Materials and Methods:

This study design is quasi-experimental. The study sample consisted of 80 individuals with heart failure with New York Heart Association (NYHA) II-IV classes and separated into two groups: the intervention group (n = 40) and the control group (n = 40). The sampling technique used in this study is consecutive sampling. Self-care is measured using the Self-Care Heart Failure Instrument version. A pre-test was administered before the intervention, and post-test and follow-up were administered two weeks after the intervention. The control group received information leaflets and the intervention group received web-based education.

Results:

The results showed that the main group effect was significant, indicating a significant increase self-care (F1,80 = 2769, p < 0.001) and self-efficacy (F1,67 = 1600, p < 0.001) in the intervention group after web-based education and two weeks follow-up.

Conclusions:

Web-based education is more effective in increasing self-efficacy and self-care abilities among heart failure patients. Providing education via a web-based platform in phases and continuously can promote healthy behaviors.
Early Clinical Deterioration Risk Assessment in Inpatient Units of a Public University Hospital
Authors: de Souza Esteves Mariana , de Araujo Lourenço Laura B. , de Jesus Meszaros Mariana , de Freitas Neves Silva Michele , São-João Thais
Published: January 2025

Background:

Clinical deterioration occurs due to changes in vital signs, which can be identified early to prevent negative outcomes. We used the NEWS2 system to assess the potential for early clinical deterioration in adult inpatient units at a public university hospital in southeastern Brazil.

Materials and Methods:

This was an exploratory study conducted at a public hospital in southeastern Brazil, following the guidelines of the Reporting of Strengthening Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) initiative. Data was collected from January to April 2021, involving 251 inpatients. A questionnaire was used to gather sociodemographic and clinical data, and the Brazilian version of NEWS2 was used to assess the risk of clinical deterioration. Data analysis included descriptive analyses, linear correlation tests, and comparative tests.

Results:

The average NEWS2 score was 2.9 points among 251 patients, indicating a moderate level of care complexity and recommending assessment by a registered nurse every 4–6 hours. There was no significant correlation between age and NEWS2 score, but the NEWS2 score was significantly higher for men.

Conclusions:

This study highlights the necessity of using robust assessment tools to evaluate the risk of early clinical deterioration, enabling clinicians to manage patient conditions effectively.
Perceived Sexual Health Needs of Older Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Saadatmand Farzaneh , Beigi Marjan , Heidari Zahra , Savabi-Esfahani Mitra
Published: January 2025

Background:

Maintaining and promoting sexual health in older women requires paying attention to and meeting their sexual health-related needs. This study aimed to determine older women’s perceived sexual health needs through a systematic review.

Materials and Methods:

In this systematic review, studies conducted from the beginning of 2000 to August 28, 2022, were searched in Databases, Scopus, Web of Science, SID, Pub Med, and Google Scholar as a research engine. To access all English articles, keywords such as sexual health, sexual performance, sexual intercourse, sexual, need, demand, and women and their possible combinations were used using “AND” and “OR” operators. This research was implemented based on the criteria of the PRISMA checklist. The articles were evaluated using the STROBE and COREQ checklists. The thematic synthesis method was used to synthesize the data.

Results:

The sexual health needs of older women were categorized into four groups: restoration of violated sexual rights, elimination of age discrimination (ageism), promotion of sexual health literacy, and providing sexual health services.

Conclusions:

The sexual needs of older women have been neglected due to prevailing social structures of many countries, stigma, gender discrimination, and lack of sexual health literacy. In addition to the need for social and emotional support to adapt to the conditions of old age, these women need to achieve sexual rights, improve sexual health literacy, and receive health services.
Psychotherapies for treating dissociative and conversion disorder
Authors: Kumari Dolly , Chaudhury Suprakash , Ranjan Rupesh , Priyamvada Richa
Published: January 2025

Dissociative and conversion disorder is characterized by severe physical and sensory symptoms that are unexplained by neurological or medical reasons. However, symptoms do not have a medical explanation but these are very real and not feigning the symptoms. It produces severe detrimental effects on patients’ daily functioning and social and occupational life like other mental illnesses. Severe distress and traumatic life circumstances are identified as the main causes of this illness, which are converted into symptoms in individuals. Patients showed ignorance of his symptoms even though these were severe and distressful which was called La-belle indifference. However, it was not shown by many patients, so it was removed from the diagnostic criteria of this illness. Dissociative conversion disorder is associated with many other mental health conditions like anxiety disorder and depression. Cognitive behavior therapy and psychoanalysis therapy are helpful in the treatment of this disorder.
Reliability and psychometric validity of the Bengali version of paranormal and supernatural beliefs scale
Authors: Ali Tahoora , Chaudhury Suprakash , Ghosh Poulomi , Kelkar Parisha , Chaudhari Bhushan
Published: January 2025

Background:

The Paranormal and Supernatural Beliefs Scale (PSBS) was developed to assess paranormal and supernatural beliefs in the population. The scale is of particular interest to Indians as these beliefs abound in India. However, India faced a language barrier because it was only available in English.

Aim:

To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Bengali translation of the PSBS.

Materials and Methods:

Two linguistic experts well-versed in English and Bengali languages independently prepared two Bengali translations of the PSBS, giving the first two versions of the Bengali scale. The subject experts by consensus prepared version 3 of the scale. Two other bilingual experts back-translated version 3 of the PSBS into the English language resulting in the fourth version. Subject experts addressed differences between the fourth version of the English scale and the original version. Then version 4 was once again translated to Bengali, leading to the fifth version of the scale, which was administered to 30 individuals, who were asked to critique the items. Their suggestions were incorporated, to arrive at the sixth and final version of the Bengali translation. By convenience sampling, 91 volunteers conversant in both the English and Bengali languages were included. The subjects were administered alternately the original English version or the Bengali version of the scale initially. Then after a gap of 14 days, those who initially received the English version filled up the Bengali translation, while those who received the Bengali version filled up the English version of the scale.

Results:

The original English scale and the Bengali version had a mean (SD) score of 13.97 (±6.84) and 13.78 (±6.76), respectively. The scores were significantly positively correlated (Spearman’s rho = 0.900; P < 0.001). The translated scale showed a high degree of internal consistency and acceptable split-half reliability. A principal component analysis with varimax rotation yielded a one-factor solution. The Bengali translation of the PSBS was easily comprehended by the participants. Results of the Rasch analysis showed the scale had good infit and outfit values. The person’s reliability was good. The Wright map showed a good distribution of the items.

Conclusion:

The Bengali translation of PSBS is a valid and reliable tool to gauge the supernatural and paranormal beliefs of the Bengali-speaking population of India.
Radiographic outcomes and subsidence rate in hyperlordotic versus standard lordotic interbody spacers in patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
Authors: Narayanan Rajkishen , Pohl Nicholas B. , Dalton Jonathan , Lee Yunsoo , Tomlak Alexa , Labarbiera Anthony , Guler Meryem , Sawicki Emilie , Fras Sebastian I. , Kurd Mark F. , Mangan John J. , Kaye Ian David , Canseco Jose A. , Hilibrand Alan S. , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Kepler Christopher K. , Schroeder Gregory D. , Lee Joseph K.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a common surgery for patients with degenerative cervical disease and current interbody spacers utilized vary based on material composition, structure, and angle of lordosis. Currently, there is a lack of literature comparing subsidence rates or long-term radiographic outcomes with hyperlordotic and standard lordotic spacers. This study compares long-term radiographic outcomes, subsidence rate, and rate of fusion in patients who underwent ACDF with hyperlordotic or standard interbody placement.

Materials and Methods:

Patients who underwent 1–3-level ACDF with either a standard lordosis or hyperlordotic interbody were included. Standard radiographs were evaluated for C2–7 lordosis (CL), sagittal vertical axis, C2 slope (C2S), T1 slope (T1S), subsidence rate, and fusion.

Results:

Forty-five patients underwent ACDF with hyperlordotic interbody placement and after a 1:1 propensity match with standard lordotic patients, 90 patients were included. 1-year postoperative radiographs demonstrated the hyperlordotic cohort achieved higher CL (15.3° ± 10.6° vs. 9.58° ± 8.88°; P = 0.007). The change in CL (8.42° ± 9.42° vs. 0.94° ± 8.67°; P < 0.001), change in C2S (−4.02° ± 6.68° vs. −1.11° ± 5.42°; P = 0.026), and change in T1S (3.49° ± 7.30° vs. 0.04° ± 6.86°, P = 0.008) between pre- and postoperative imaging were larger in the hyperlordotic cohort. There was no difference in overall subsidence (P = 0.183) and rate of fusion (P = 0.353) between the cohorts.

Conclusion:

Hyperlordotic spacer placement in ACDF can provide increased CL compared to standard lordosis spacers, which can be considered for patients requiring restoration or maintenance of CL following ACDF.
The effectiveness of posterior Schanz screw system in the anatomical restoration of thoracolumbar vertebral burst fractures: A 10-year single-institution experience
Authors: Giorgi Pietro Domenico , Legrenzi Simona , Youchen Ye , Federico Bove , Schirò Giuseppe Rosario
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

The Schanz screw system was developed for manual reduction of traumatic sagittal deformity of thoracic and lumbar vertebral fracture. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiological effectiveness of this system in the surgical treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures (TLBFs) with severe kyphotic deformity without neurological deficit.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 101 patients who underwent short posterior fixation with transpedicular Schanz screws between 2012 and 2022 for single-level (T12 or L1) TLBFs. Clinical outcomes (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI] and Visual Analog Scale [VAS]) and radiological parameters (sagittal alignment and spinal canal dimensions) were assessed with a minimum 2-year follow-up.

Results:

A total of 101 TLBFs patients with an average age of 48.1 years (range: 26–65) were included in this study. Intraoperative reduction of the Sagittal Kyphosis (SK) achieved an average of 12.31° ± 8.1°°, with a mean sagittal index (SI) correction of 15.23° ± 4.24°. At a minimum 2-year follow-up, the total amount of kyphosis reduction was maintained, with no significant difference between immediate postoperative and early follow-up measurements. Load-sharing score >8, body mass index >26, preoperative radiological parameters (SI, SK, and anterior body height [ABH] ratio), and postoperative ABH ratio were identified as significant predictors of correction loss >10°. At the final follow-up, all patients had minimal disability, with an average ODI of 7.9%. VAS scores also showed significant improvement, indicating substantial clinical effectiveness of the Schanz screw system in managing these complex spinal injuries.

Discussion:

The Schanz screw system proved to be an effective and reliable method for treating TLBFs with severe kyphosis. The system’s ability to achieve and maintain deformity reduction, coupled with favorable clinical outcomes, supported its use in the surgical management of these challenging spinal injuries.

Conclusion:

The Schanz screw system offered a viable treatment option for severe kyphotic deformity in TLBFs.
Return to sports activities following posterior scoliosis correction and instrumented fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and its correlation to Lenke classification
Authors: Khaleeq Tahir , Jaly Ibrahim , Lea Matthew , Tokala Devi Prakash , Davidson Neil , Trivedi Jayesh , Munigangaiah Sudarshan
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

There is a paucity of information or guidelines regarding return to sports activities after posterior scoliosis surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).

Research Question:

Review the rate of return to sports and correlation to Lenke type following surgery for AIS in a tertiary center for pediatric spinal deformity.

Materials and Methods:

Ninety patients were identified to have undergone surgery for AIS from 2016 to 2017 and were sent a return to sport questionnaire. Sixty-six responses were received and analyzed. For comparison, Lenke classification was divided into Subgroup 1 (Lenke type 1 and 2), Subgroup 2 (Lenke type 3 and 4), and Subgroup 3 (Lenke type 5 and 6).

Results:

The average age at the time of surgery was 14.81 (11–18) years. There were Lenke 1 (31), Lenke 2 (7), Lenke 3 (12), Lenke 4 (8), Lenke 5 (7), and Lenke 6 (1). The average number of levels fused was 10.27 (7–16). 89.3% of patients returned to school between 1 and 3 months. 19.6% of patients returned to physical education (PE) within 7–12 months, while 31.8% returned to running within 4–6 months. 7.5% of patients did not do PE and 18.2% never ran after surgery. 63.6% of patients returned to contact sports after surgery, majority within 7–12 months. 91% of patients felt that they were able to achieve their preoperative performance level. Comparing the subgroups, 92% of Subgroup 1 returned to school within 2 months, while majority of them returned to PE and running within 6 months. 60% of them returned to the same level of contact/noncontact sports level prior to surgery and 40% within 6 months. Patients in Subgroup 2 and 3 returned later to school. Patients in Subgroup 2 and 3 returned later to school, PE and running with less patients returning to contact/noncontact sports.

Conclusion:

This study was able to identify Lenke classification as an important predictor of patients returning to school, PE, and running earlier along with return to preoperative levels of contact/noncontact sports.
Perioperative complications following spinal fusion in idiopathic scoliosis: A review of 825 cases from the German Spine Registry (DWG-register) – Perioperative complications in idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Vinas-Rios Juan Manuel , Heck Vincent J. , Medina-Govea Fatima Azucena , Islas-Aguilar Mario Alberto , Kernich Nikolaus
Published: January 2025

Background:

Overview of the literature: Idiopathic scoliosis (IS) is most commonly developed during adolescence and affects 2%–3% of the population. The overall complication rate for corrective surgeries in adolescent IS patients is described as 6.3%. Perioperative complications include intraoperative blood loss, neurological deficit, and infection, with excessive blood loss being one of the most common. The aim of the study is to evaluate the prevalence of major and minor complications following posterior or anterior fusion for IS.

Methods:

Retrospective multicenter study of data from the DWG-Register of patients who underwent operative treatment for IS from January 2017 to September 2022. Inclusion criteria: IS, age between 10 and 30 years.

Results:

In total, 825 IS patients undergoing fusion were identified in the registry; n = 801 (Group 1) did not have operative complications and n = 24 had a complication related to surgical procedure (Group 2); therefore, the complications rate was 2.9%. A 1.3% rate of major complications and 1.6% rate of minor complications were recorded as follows: spinal cord damage n = 2 (8.4%), subfaszial hematoma n = 2 (8.4%), motor dysfunction n = 1 (4.2%), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-leakage n = 7 (29.2%), sensory dysfunction n = 6 (25%), bowel/bladder dysfunction n = 1 (4.2%), superficial site infection n = 2 (8.4%), and pulmonary lung atelectasis n = 3 (12.5%). According to the logistic regression model, an odds ratio for pedicel screws versus laminar hooks for hyperkyphosis correction of 3.73 and for Ponte-osteotomy of 11.5 was found.

Conclusions:

In IS patients treated operatively, the prevalence of nonneurologic postoperative complications following corrective surgery was 1.80% with CSF leak being the leading risk of complication at 0.84.%. These findings should guide surgeons in their intraoperative Dural tear repair particularly osteotomies. Alternate level pedicle-screw placement with laminar hooks leads to higher operation time and more extensive fusion with consequent slightly prevalence in perioperative complications.
Incidence and long-term patient reported outcome measures of patients with radiological cauda equina compression but without clinical features of cauda equina syndrome
Authors: Soleiman Hamzah Alsheikh , Solou Mary , Demetriades Andreas K.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare spinal emergency. Paradoxically, in the British NHS, suspected CES requiring an emergency magnetic resonance imaging constitutes one of the commonest reasons for acute referrals to neurosurgery/spine surgery. Further acute referrals also occur with the reverse scenario, when radiological evidence of cauda equina compression is not accompanied by the clinical red flags of the syndrome. The understanding of CES, particularly in cases with radiological compression but lacking clinical symptoms, remains limited. This study aims to explore the incidence and the long-term outcomes of such patients, addressing a significant knowledge gap.

Methods:

A single-center, retrospective and cohort study was conducted, analyzing suspected CES referrals managed between August 2013 and November 2014. Patients with radiological cauda equina compression but without clinical CES features were identified. A structured questionnaire assessed long-term patient reported outcomes.

Results:

Out of 344 suspected CES referrals, 38 patients (11%) had radiological CES of degenerative cause without clinical symptoms. From those with radiological cauda equina compression but no features of CES, 14 were assessed for long-term results and the majority still underwent surgery (64%), either emergent (35.7%) or elective (28.6%). The long-term patient reported outcomes of the operated patients revealed that 66.7% were fully ambulant, 77.8% maintained an intact sexual function, and 88.9% were free of urinary symptoms. However, no matter the management, chronic pain persisted in 85.7%.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the existence of patients who are referred urgently with radiological cauda equina compression but who lack clinical CES symptoms. Despite surgical interventions, chronic pain remains a significant issue. Further research, including multi-centered studies, is warranted to enhance our understanding of this condition and its nuanced subpopulations.
Does structural compromise of the aorta in patients with aortic pathologies predict increased spinal and vascular complications and reoperations in patients undergoing anterior approach to the spine?
Authors: Shah Neil V. , Çeliker Pelin , Sadeghi Cirous , Baum Rachel , Alam Juhayer S. , Ikwuazom Chibuokem , Zhou Peter L. , Krasnyanskiy Benjamin , Kim David , Desai Rohan , Bains Sandeep , Schwartz Jeffrey M. , Diebo Bassel G. , Paulino Carl B.
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

Anterior spinal fusion (ASF) presents unique challenges, including the proximity of critical anatomic structures. Previous reports have detailed vascular injuries during exposure/approach; however, it is not well-documented whether structural aortic pathology, such as aneurysm, dissection, atherosclerosis, aortitis, or aortic tumors, impacts postoperative outcomes following anterior approach to the spine for spinal fusion.

Materials and Methods:

Using the New York State Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System, thoracolumbar ASF patients with a history of aneurysm, dissection, atherosclerosis, aortitis, or aortic tumors (APath) were identified and matched to patients with no aortic pathologies (No-APath). The two cohorts were compared at 90-day and 2-year follow-up for complications, readmissions, and revisions. Multivariate binary stepwise logistic regression identified independent predictors of these outcomes.

Results:

Ninety-nine and 64 patients were included at 90-day and 2-year follow-ups, respectively. APath and No-APath had comparable demographics. Through 90-day follow-up, both cohorts had similar vascular complications and overall complications. No-APath patients had higher surgical complications (11.1% vs. 0%, P = 0.021). At 2-year follow-up, cohorts had comparable vascular complications, overall complications, and all other outcomes (P > 0.05). Neither group was observed to require any revisions through 2-year follow-up. The presence of a structural aortic pathology was not associated with increased odds of incurring adverse outcomes at 90-day and 2-year follow-ups.

Conclusions:

Structural aortic compromise in the setting of thoracolumbar ASF did not predispose patients to adverse vascular, spinal-related, or medical/surgical complications, nor to anterior spinal or vascular revision or repair through 2-year follow-up. These results highlight the need for well-powered studies to further delineate the risk of anterior spinal surgery in this cohort of patients.
Unstable thoracolumbar injuries: A bibliometric analysis of the most influential papers
Authors: Piovesan Eduardo Cattapan , Silva Werner Petry , Guiroy Alfredo , De Freitas Bruna Zanatta , Vargas Vinícius Cercena , Carazzo Charles
Published: January 2025

Background:

Bibliometric analyses are a proficient method for understanding the dynamics of publications. Unstable thoracolumbar injuries are a prevalent topic in neurosurgery and orthopedic research.

Methodology:

Web of Science was searched for the 100 most-cited articles on unstable thoracolumbar injuries. A number of citations, article title, first author’s name, year and journal of publication and its impact factor (IF), specialty, affiliation, country of the first author, and type of the article were retrieved.

Results:

The articles were published in 32 different journals from 1977 to 2020. Spine (38 articles in the top 100 and 3694 citations) was the journal with the greatest number of articles and citations, and the highest number of primary research papers (31 articles, accounting for 2915 citations). The United States was the country with the most articles (45) and citations (4541). The University of California (5 articles, 6 primary research, and 781 citations) was the institution with the highest number of citations, articles, and primary research articles. Orthopedic was the specialty with the most significant number of publications and the most cited (77 articles and 7197 citations). The first author with the greatest number of publications and primary research articles was R. F. McLain (4 articles, being 3 primary research, and 646 citations), while the most cited was A. R. Vaccaro (3 articles and 695 citations). Eighty publications were primary and 20 were secondary research.

Conclusions:

The unstable thoracolumbar research field is prominent in North America and has been more frequently published in orthopedic journals, after 1995.
Efficacy of distal peripheral nerve blocks in lumbar radicular pain: A randomized placebo-controlled triple-blinded study
Authors: Jha Vivek , Sharma Gaurav Kumar , Singh Omeshwar , Aggarwal Jatin
Published: January 2025

Context:

Inflamed nerve root leads to mechano-sensitization and upregulation of sodium channels in nerve endings far distal to the site of inflammation, leading to tenderness of these nerve endings. Due to pseudounipolar nature, the blockade of sodium channels at peripheral nerve endings leads to relief in radicular pain.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of bupivacaine in improving pain and straight leg raising test (SLRT), 30 min after injection around tender nerves near the ankle, in patients with unilateral radicular pain.

Design:

This was a randomized placebo-controlled triple-blinded study.

Methods:

One hundred patients of single-level lumbar disc prolapse and unilateral radicular pain were randomized into two equal groups. Three nerves (sural nerve, lateral branch of deep peroneal nerve and posterior tibial nerve) were assessed for tenderness around the ankle. Bupivacaine (0.5%) was injected around each tender nerve in the case group whereas equal volume of normal saline was injected in the control group around each tender nerve. Pain Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and SLRT were checked before and 30 min postinjection. A proportion of patients achieving minimum clinically important difference (MCID) of NRS ≤4 and MCID of SLRT ≥30° were compared.

Results:

A mean decrease in NRS among cases was from 8.06 ± 1.236 to 3.90 ± 2.013 (P < 0.001) with 78% achieving MCID. A mean decrease in NRS in the control group was from 7.88 ± 1.023 to 7.66 ± 1.171 (P = 0.084), and only 2% of patients achieved MCID. There was a statistically significant improvement in SLR in the case group (40.90°–60.90°, P < 0.001), and 54% showed a clinically significant improvement by crossing MCID threshold. The control group showed nonsignificant improvement in SLRT (38.10°–39.10°, P = 0.351), and only 2% achieved MCID.

Conclusions:

In single-level lumbar disc prolapse with unilateral radicular pain, injection of bupivacaine 0.5% (a sodium channel blocker) around tender nerves near the ankle provides clinically significant relief in pain and SLRT at 30 min when compared to placebo.
Primary renal BCOR::CCNB3 sarcoma in a female patient: case report
Authors: Lee Somang , Kim Binnari
Published: January 2025

BCOR-rearranged sarcoma was classified by the World Health Organization in 2020 as a new subgroup of undifferentiated small round-cell sarcoma. It is known to occur very rarely in the kidney. This report presents the first case of a primary renal BCOR::CCNB3 sarcoma in a 22-year-old woman. An 8-cm cystic mass was identified in the left kidney by abdominal pelvic computed tomography. Histopathologic examination revealed the mass to be composed of small round to oval or spindle cells with fibrous septa and a delicate vascular network. A BCOR::CCNB3 fusion was detected by next-generation sequencing–based molecular testing. BCOR::CCNB3 sarcoma presents diagnostic difficulties, highlighting the importance of recognizing its histological features. Immunohistochemical markers are helpful for diagnosis, but genetic molecular testing is necessary for accurate diagnosis. These tumors have a very poor and aggressive prognosis, and an optimal therapeutic regimen has not yet been defined. Therefore, further studies are needed.
Post-transplant liver biopsies: a concise and practical approach for beginners
Authors: Ourfali Mohamad Besher , Hirsch David , Scranton Marianna , Jabbour Tony El
Published: January 2025

Exposure to post-transplant liver biopsies varies among pathology residencies and largely depends on the institution's training program, particularly if the hospital has a liver transplant program. The interpretation of biopsies from transplanted livers presents its own set of challenges, even for those with a solid understanding of non-transplant medical liver biopsies. In this review, we aim to provide a succinct, step-by-step approach to help you interpret liver transplant biopsies. This article may be beneficial for residents interested in liver pathology, gastrointestinal and liver pathology fellows in the early stages of training, clinical gastroenterology and hepatology fellows, hepatologists and general pathologists who are curious about this niche.
NVH Performance of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors with Liquid
Cooling System
Authors: Barri Dario , Soresini Federico , Ballo Federico , Lucà Francescantonio , Manzoni Stefano , Gobbi Massimiliano , Mastinu Giampiero
Published: January 2025

The aim of the article is to evaluate the effect of the cooling system on the NVH
behavior of traction permanent magnets synchronous motors (PMSMs). An effective
numerical method is proposed for modeling the fluid–structure interaction in the
cooling system of PMSMs. A simplified physical prototype of a cooling jacket of
a PMSM is realized by welding two concentric tubes with an internal cavity
filled by coolant. A finite element model of the structure is realized. The
coolant is modeled as an acoustic domain to account for the fluid–structure
interaction in the cavity and a coupled acoustic–structural dynamic problem is
solved. The model is validated by experimental modal tests conducted on the
prototype of the cooling jacket both with and without the presence of coolant.
The validated model is employed to quantify the effect of the cooling system on
a real PMSM. The structure of a 10-poles, 12-slots electric machine is modeled
by means of finite element method. The model includes the validated cooling
jacket and the internal stator lamination and windings. Numerical vibroacoustic
analyses have been performed at different operating conditions, either with or
without modeling the coolant with the aim of quantifying its effect on the sound
emission of the machine. Acoustic emission is generally increased when fluid
coolant is present. For a PMSM, localized sound emission peaks appeared in the
low-frequency range, up to 2000 Hz. A maximum increase of 44 dB was
observed.
Nephrotoxic Effects of Calcium Carbide on Wistar Albino Rats – A Histological Study
Authors: Gita Gita Kumari Yadav , Shrestha Shamsher , Yadav Prabhakar , Pokhrel Churamani
Published: January 2025

Background: Calcium carbide (CaC2) is commonly used as an artificial fruit ripening agent. Once CaC2 comes in contact with moisture, it releases acetylene gas (Carbide gas), similar to the fruit ripening agent ‘ethylene’. The main objective of the study was to investigate the effect of calcium carbide on the kidney via the evaluation of gross and histological changes.Data & Methods: Twenty-four male healthy Wistar-albino rats weighing 130-200gm were randomly divided into 4 groups i.e. control group (received normal diet) and group I (normal diet mixed with 0.5gm CaC2), group II (received normal diet mixed with 0.25gm CaC2), group III (normal diet mixed with 0.125gm CaC2). Each group included 6 rats. All groups were treated over 21 consecutive days. On the 22nd day, all rats were anesthetized by inhalation of ether and scarified by cervical dislocation. Organs were removed and preserved in 10% formalin solution for histological examination. The diameters of renal components were measured using oculo-micrometers. Results: CaC2 did not affect the body weight of albino rats. Compared to the control group, the weight of kidney of all experimental groups decreased significantly (p-value 0.001). Histological study of the kidney showed a statistically significant decrease in the diameter of renal corpuscle and capsular space of group I compared to the control group and a statically significant increase in diameter of that of group II and III (p-value <0.01). The diameter of the glomerulus of group I and group III decreased but that of group II diameter was increased compared to the control group (p-value <0.01). Similarly, the diameter of distal convoluted tubules decreased in all experimental groups (p-value <0.001). However, there was no effect in the diameter of proximal convoluted tubules of all experimental groups (p-value 0.052). Conclusion: CaC2 caused both morphological and histological changes in rat kidney.
A potential maternal fatality averted: The case of a young patient who underwent a peripartum hysterectomy at Lamjung district hospital
Authors: Dr. Goma Rimal
Published: January 2025

The case reviewed here represents a 22-year-old gravida-two woman who lived in a relatively more accessible hill town in Nepal. It was determined to be a potentially fatal case, and a peripartum hysterectomy was performed on her. The potential fatality was averted due to the availability of an obstetrician/gynecologist, an anesthesiologist, a functioning blood bank and blood transfusion facility, and nurses and other support staff. The case underscores that PPH could happen to any pregnant woman without any identifiable risk factor, and second, averting a potential maternal death requires the whole health system to function effectively.
Emprendimientos industriales: Procesos de gestión y competitividad
Authors: Diaz-Purizaga Cesar Enrique , Carhuancho-Mendoza Irma Milagros , Meleán-Romero Rosana Alejandra
Published: January 2025

El objetivo fue determinar la influencia de los procesos de gestión empresarial en la competitividad de los emprendimientos industriales del distrito de Carabayllo, Perú. La metodología fue cuantitativa, de diseño no experimental, transversal y causal, se aplicaron encuestas a una muestra de 123 colaboradores de diez emprendimientos industriales. Los datos fueron analizados utilizando estadística descriptiva y una prueba de regresión ordinal para evaluar la relación entre las variables procesos de gestión empresarial y competitividad. Los procesos de gestión empresarial en los emprendimientos industriales son predominantemente regular, afectados por la falta de planificación estratégica, liderazgo transformacional limitado y procesos internos deficientes. Solo un pequeño porcentaje de emprendimientos logra ventajas competitivas significativas, y la mayoría enfrenta dificultades para adaptarse a condiciones cambiantes del mercado. La falta de inversión en innovación y tecnología y la escasa capacitación del capital humano, limita su capacidad para mejorar su competitividad. El modelo de regresión mostró que la gestión empresarial explica entre el 27.2% y el 32.4% de la variabilidad en la competitividad de los emprendimientos industriales. Se sugiere la implementación de políticas industriales robustas y sostenibles, similares a las de la Unión Europea, para mejorar la competitividad en el contexto peruano. Se subraya la necesidad de una gestión empresarial más estratégica y adaptativa para enfrentar desafíos del mercado.
Raíces de sabiduría: Trazando la evolución del rescate de saberes a través del análisis bibliométrico
Authors: Alvarez-Herrera Maritza
Published: January 2025

Este estudio presenta un análisis bibliométrico de la investigación sobre el rescate de saberes y el conocimiento compartido, basado en datos extraídos de la base de datos de Scopus. Abarcando publicaciones desde el año 1998 hasta 2023, el análisis revela un crecimiento significativo en la producción científica en este campo, con un marcado aumento en los últimos años. Los resultados muestran una red de colaboración internacional robusta, liderada por países como Estados Unidos, Australia y Canadá, con una creciente participación de naciones del Sur Global. El análisis de términos clave destaca la naturaleza interdisciplinaria de la investigación, abarcando áreas como la conservación de la biodiversidad, la medicina tradicional y la adaptación al cambio climático. Las revistas líderes en el campo reflejan esta diversidad temática, cubriendo desde estudios sociales hasta ciencias ambientales. Este estudio proporciona una visión integral del estado actual de la investigación sobre el rescate de saberes y el conocimiento compartido, identificando tendencias y oportunidades para el desarrollo de futuras investigaciones. Los hallazgos subrayan la creciente relevancia del conocimiento y los saberes en el abordaje de desafíos globales contemporáneos y la necesidad de una mayor inclusión de perspectivas diversas en este campo de estudio en constante evolución.
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Authors: Jurnal Cover
Published: January 2025

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