Articles tagged with Spinal Column
A study by researchers at MUSC and the NIH found that reminders of drug use can alter brain cells' motivation and increase cravings. The study showed that enlarged dendritic spines facilitate enhanced connectivity between brain cells, making relapse more likely.
Researchers from Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University propose a novel approach to analyzing dendritic spine shapes by considering clusterization methods. This approach can provide more accurate understanding of synaptic input and its relationship with learning, memory, and neurodegenerative disorders.
A new study published in Journal of Bone and Mineral Research suggests that women with a history of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are at a higher risk of developing vertebral fractures. The study found that OSA was associated with a 2-fold increased risk of vertebral fracture, particularly among those experiencing daytime sleepiness.
The article discusses the importance of peak performance in surgical training, citing the need for perseverance, stoicism, and grit. HSS physicians offer practical advice on achieving peak performance, including growing self-awareness through mindfulness activities and refining physical skills through deliberate practice.
Researchers have designed a new X-ray classification system for adult idiopathic scoliosis, providing a more universal and standard assessment of the condition. The three-component method maintains existing curve types while introducing assessments of global alignment and lumbosacral curve, improving treatment options for older patients.
Osteoid osteomas are benign but painful bone-forming tumors that often involve the spine, causing back and radicular pain. A new minimally invasive percutaneous treatment technique is proposed as an alternative to surgical excision, offering a lower risk of fusion with instrumentation.
A recent study found that 15.8% of spinal surgery authors had payments reported, but only 78% were accurately disclosed. The study suggests standardizing COI reporting and actively querying public databases to improve transparency.
Researchers found that activating specific receptors can induce synaptic plasticity without structural changes, challenging the long-held assumption about spine size and strength. The study provides a potential new avenue for treating Fragile X syndrome by targeting an unidentified protein promoting synapse shrinkage.
A global survey of 902 spine surgeons revealed that 75% of surgical cases were canceled weekly due to COVID-19. The majority reported elevated anxiety and uncertainty about managing patients with the virus.
Researchers discovered a Jurassic stick insect that employed mimicry by resembling ferns to protect itself from predators. The discovery reveals the earliest known specializations for mimicry and defense in stick insects, dating back 165 million years. This finding sheds light on the evolution of these remarkable insects.
A stranded seal was found with multiple facial wounds inflicted by fish, which researchers attribute to the animal's attempt to defend itself. The study suggests that similar injuries may be more common than previously thought, highlighting the dangers faced by marine mammals in their quest for food.
Children who underwent fetal surgery for spina bifida at a young age are more likely to walk independently and require fewer follow-up surgeries compared to those who had traditional corrective surgery after birth. The study found that these children also scored higher on motor skills and had lower rates of hydrocephalus.
The Oreopithecus bambolii skeleton reveals that this late Miocene hominoid was not optimized for efficient 2-leg walking or climbing like living great apes. The species lacked key adaptations, such as pelvic stabilization and trunk stability during bipedal gait.
A study of three million UK adults found that atopic eczema increases the risk of fractures by up to 13%, with those with severe eczema having a significantly higher risk. Targeted screening and fracture-prevention strategies are recommended for these individuals.
Researchers studied mammal vertebral columns and found discrete steps in complexity, linking increased activity levels to evolution. Complex spines evolved in bursts, influencing breathing, metabolism, and movement, shaping modern mammals' traits.
Researchers discovered fossils of 480-million-year-old arthropods in linear formation, indicating possible collective behavior. The findings suggest that group behaviors comparable to modern animals existed as early as 480 million years ago.
A new prospective study of over 4,000 children found that screening for cervical spine risk factors can significantly reduce the number of unnecessary CT scans. The study identified seven key risk factors that can aid clinicians in deciding which children need imaging, with the potential to spare hundreds of children from cancer annually.
Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute identified the gene and protein CPG15 that enables brain cells to select permanent synapses based on experience-driven neural activity. Without CPG15, mice exhibit slower learning and reliance on circuit architectures that haven't been refined by experience.
Researchers developed a simulator mimicking human torso behavior to test new back brace designs without human testing. The rig allows for optimized constraint of specific motions while enabling other movements, potentially reducing discomfort and improving spine stability.
Researchers have identified the genetic basis of pufferfish spines, which share developmental pathways with other vertebrates. The study reveals that the spines evolved as a unique adaptation for protection during inflation.
Researchers discovered a significant association between pedicle screw loosening and the presence of low-virulent pathogens on spinal implants, with coagulase-negative staphylococci being the most commonly found. Long surgery times were also linked to a higher rate of implant infection, suggesting that preventing perioperative implant ...
A team of scientists measured the puncture performance of viper fangs using a custom-built machine. The study found that the angle of the fang's tip contributes most to its sharpness, with narrower tips performing better than wider ones.
This article discusses the latest research on enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in spine surgery, highlighting new operative techniques, anesthetic methods, and full ERAS protocols. Key findings include reduced length of stay, decreased complication rates, and improved patient satisfaction.
A study found that lumbar spine MRI reports were written at a readability level significantly above the average reading ability of US adults, with only one report meeting basic education standards. The high complexity of these reports may limit patient understanding and access to their health information.
A new tool, SpinalLog, is being used at the University of Melbourne to help physiotherapy students master complex fine motor skills. The device provides real-time visual feedback on pressure patterns and technique used to mobilise the spine, improving students' ability to replicate force patterns.
A study found that a significant number of patients undergoing lumbar spine fusion had previously undiagnosed low bone density, with 44% diagnosed with osteopenia and 15% with osteoporosis. This discovery could lead to changes in surgical planning and treatment, potentially improving patient outcomes.
A new assessment tool before revision hip replacement surgery has significantly reduced the rate of recurrent dislocations compared to a standard evaluation. The tool assigns a score based on spinal alignment and mobility, informing the approach for revision surgery.
A 500-million-year-old ancient worm, Amiskwia, has been linked to modern arrowworms through DNA analysis and anatomical features. The study found that Amiskwia possessed a jaw apparatus similar to gnathiferans, which are microscopic worms with a distinctive internal jaw apparatus.
A new study found that fractures in older adults have lasting impacts on health-related quality of life. Women with hip or spine fractures experienced significant declines in mobility and self-care, with some never recovering to pre-fracture levels.
Researchers discovered that froghoppers pierce leaves with their hind-leg spines to create traction, while also indenting epoxy surfaces to avoid slipping. This unique attachment mechanism could lead to innovative gripping systems for robots.
Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience developed a new method to identify functional properties of individual synapses linking the two hemispheres. They found that callosal inputs and local inputs with similar orientation preference are clustered within the dendritic field, enabling coordinated network activity.
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a gene therapy that could reduce and possibly eliminate dyskinesia, a frustrating side effect of levodopa treatment in Parkinson's patients. The study focuses on brain cells and has shown promising results in preventing the development of dyskinesia over extended periods.
A study of 17 astronauts found that long-duration spaceflight reduces paraspinal muscle size by 4.6-8.8% and increases fatty tissue content, with some changes persisting for up to four years after returning to Earth.
Researchers found that homeostatic synaptic plasticity (HSP) facilitates Hebbian plasticity, enhancing memory formation and learning. HSP helps maintain a stable level of activity in synapses, allowing the brain to store information while keeping it accessible.
A new study links scoliosis to the body's inability to utilize the essential dietary mineral manganese. Children with severe scoliosis are twice as likely to carry a gene variant that makes it hard for their cells to take in and use manganese, which is required for growing bones and cartilage.
Researchers at Krembil Institute have developed a novel therapeutic treatment that can potentially stop knee and spine osteoarthritis in its tracks. The treatment targets microRNA-181a-5p, a biomarker believed to cause inflammation, cartilage destruction, and collagen depletion.
A new form of Chest Wall Deformity has been discovered in patients with mild scoliosis and without it, characterized by rib humps mimicking scoliosis. Long-term observations are necessary to draw a final conclusion on prognosis.
A study published in Spine Journal found that patients taking opioids for at least three months before spinal fusion surgery were more likely to continue taking opioids one year after surgery, with rates of 42% vs. 9% in the opioid-taking group compared to those who didn't take opioids before surgery.
A study analyzed 4,701 comments on physician review sites, finding that negative ratings for office staff, billing, and wait times are more common than for surgeon competence or outcomes. Surgeon-independent factors, such as office environment and billing, have a significant impact on overall scores.
A study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs found that teenage girls who binge drink regularly have lower bone mass, even when accounting for other factors. The researchers suggest that avoiding binge drinking may help young women reach their peak bone mass and reduce their risk of osteoporosis.
Researchers found that frequent nerve signals strengthen dendritic spines in adult-born neurons, allowing them to connect with the existing neural network. This process is crucial for learning and memory formation in the hippocampus.
A study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery found that patients who take prescription opioids for a longer period before spinal surgery are more likely to continue using opioids several months after surgery. Duration of opioid use before surgery was the main risk factor for continued use. After adjustment, the likelihood o...
Researchers found that mid-back muscle decline is associated with increased kyphosis curvature, but not low-back muscle decline. Targeted resistance exercises may help prevent kyphosis progression
The RoSE is a dynamic spine brace that measures 3-D stiffness of the human torso, enabling new treatments for children with spine deformities. The device applies controlled forces to correct abnormal curves, adapting to changes in the torso over time.
Patients taking chronic opioids before spinal fusion are at increased risk of complications, including wound complications, emergency visits, and repeat spinal fusion surgery. Long-term opioid use also associated with higher odds of constipation and increased healthcare costs.
Research reveals cycling as the leading cause of cervical fractures in men, with a significant increase in injuries over the past two decades. The study analyzed 50,000 patient cases and found that football was the most common cause of neck sprains in women, while horseback riding caused the most cervical fractures in females.
A new algorithm provides a comprehensive guide to managing spinal metastases, integrating specialties and offering personalized treatment approaches. The algorithm focuses on spine-specific issues and incorporates popular treatment paths, including surgical decompression and stereotactic body radiotherapy.
The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in children and adolescents aged 10 to 18 years. Routine screening may not provide sufficient benefits to outweigh potential harms.
A study published in Spine Journal found that durotomy cases involving late detection and severe injury are more likely to result in a verdict in favor of the patient. The researchers identified 48 malpractice cases where incidental durotomy during spinal surgery led to litigation, with most resulting in a ruling in favor of the surgeon.
Scientists at the University of Konstanz have created a more durable cement based on the nanostructure of sea urchin spines, which is significantly more resistant to fractures. The new material's elastic properties are comparable to those of mussel shells and reach values of up to 200 megapascals.
A study found that patients with spine osteoarthritis and those under 65 are more likely to use opioids for pain management. The study also showed a significant association between opioid use and greater depressive symptoms, as well as higher levels of pain.
A recent study by Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience researchers found that neighboring dendritic spines within a few micrometers of each other share similar functional properties, regardless of the diversity of sensory features they encode. This discovery suggests that local order in dendritic spine functional properties ma...
Researchers developed a novel imaging technique to assess patients with lumbar spine degeneration, providing precise assessments of water content changes in the intervertebral disk. This technology aims to recognize and predict disease earlier, enabling better treatment choices.
A new study by the University of Exeter found thousands of social media accounts celebrating extreme thinness, featuring selfies with protruding bones. The research suggests that these platforms are encouraging eating disorders and promoting unhealthy body image among young women.
A new study linked certain genetic changes to an increased risk of developing lumbar spinal stenosis. The research, involving 469 individuals, provides insights into the potential causes and may help identify patients at risk early.
Scientists have discovered that axon damage leads to shrinking dendritic spines and rising excitability in neurons, but also found that blocking gene activity with netrin-1 can reverse these changes. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatments for brain injury patients.
Clinically undiagnosed vertebral fractures in older men are associated with higher likelihood of back pain and limited physical activity. Preventing these fractures may reduce back pain and related disability.
A recent study by researchers at Ohio State University found that people often exceed recommended limits when pushing wheelchairs, which can lead to back injuries. The study also revealed that turning a wheelchair is harder on the back than pushing in a straight line.
A new American College of Surgeons quality improvement program linked to a two-thirds decrease in smoking rates in patients undergoing cervical and lumbar spine procedures. The program, Strong for Surgery, helps patients prepare for surgery by identifying and evaluating evidence-based practices to optimize their health.
Researchers have identified an asymmetric role for pre-synaptic cadherin/catenin complexes in stabilizing post-synaptic spines. This finding challenges the long-held assumption of symmetry in synaptogenesis and has implications for understanding neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder.