Endoscopic Treatment of Deep Gluteal Syndrome: 3-Portal Technique.

We describe all-endoscopic deep gluteal syndrome treatment and sciatic nerve decompression at the infrapiriformis space. Surgery is performed with the patient in the prone position with the usual arthroscopic instruments and pump. The first step includes performing placement of 2 initial portals (medial and median) without fluoroscopy in the area of the ischial tuberosity and conjoint tendon, as well as release in this area with a subsequent shift in the lateral direction. The second step includes performing placement of an additional lateral portal for instruments, switching the camera into the median portal, and visualizing the sciatic nerve and its decompression at the infrapiriformis space and upper part of the thigh area. The postoperative period includes early activation, immediate passive and active motion after surgery, and full weight bearing the day after surgery.

Early clinico-radiological outcomes following neuroendoscopic cysto-cisternostomy for middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts: a prospective cohort study with illustrative cases.

BACKGROUND: The dysmorphogenetic arachnoid cysts' pathomechanism is most favoured, and about 50% occur as middle cranial fossa cysts (MCFAC). Still being rare, management options are yet evolving. We described the clinico-radiological features, management and early outcomes of participants with MCFAC in our service. METHODS: This prospective cohort study involved 29 pediatric participants recruited (from electronic health records, using ICD G93.0 D016080 for arachnoid cysts) between 01/01/2023 and 31/06/2023, following informed consent according to the ethical approval. All participants had neuro-imaging confirmed MCFAC. Baseline and follow-up data were retrieved and analyzed using summary (mean, standard deviation) and inferential (ANOVA, t-test) statistics. RESULTS: They were averagely aged 6.2 ± 4.48 years and were mostly males (89.7%). 24.1% were asymptomatic. The commonest symptoms (n = 38) were headaches (23.7%), developmental delays (15.8%), eye complaints (15.8%) and cephalomegaly (7.9%). They were predominantly left-sided (89.7%). Galassi (G) 3 lesions were less (24.1%), with G2 and G1 lesions evenly sharing the rest. The average cyst volume was 58.4 ± 80.83cm3; there were significant differences (F = 4.682; p = 0.018) between the average volumes for G1 (14.4 ± 22.42cm3), G2 (61.7 ± 89.92cm3) and G3 (122.5 ± 94.37cm3) lesions. 44.8% of the participants had rigid-endoscopic cysto-cisternotomy (all between the ICA and oculomotor nerve into the interpeduncular cistern, using ventriculostomy forceps); including all G3, 50% of G2 and no G1 (had serial clinico-radiological observation) lesion. The average pre- (117.42cm3) and post-operative (53.48cm3) cyst volumes showed significant (t = - 2.797, p = 0.021) reductions. CONCLUSION: Middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts occur predominantly amongst males, in middle childhood and left-sided. The treatment-related patient series are largely symptomatic, unlike the largely asymptomatic, screening-related series. Higher Galassi grade lesions presented with progressively, significantly larger cyst volumes and higher likelihoods of surgery. The average post-operative cyst volume at follow-up averagely showed almost 60% reduction from the pre-operative. All participants reported clinical remission.

Growth Factors and Their Application in the Therapy of Hereditary Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Hereditary neurodegenerative diseases (hNDDs) such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's disease, and others are primarily characterized by their progressive nature, severely compromising both the cognitive and motor abilities of patients. The underlying genetic component in hNDDs contributes to disease risk, creating a complex genetic landscape. Considering the fact that growth factors play crucial roles in regulating cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, and survival, they could have therapeutic potential for hNDDs, provided appropriate dosing and safe delivery approaches are ensured. This article presents a detailed overview of growth factors, and explores their therapeutic potential in treating hNDDs, emphasizing their roles in neuronal survival, growth, and synaptic plasticity. However, challenges such as proper dosing, delivery methods, and patient variability can hinder their clinical application.

Neuroendoscopic cysto-cisternostomy for middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts: a systematic review of the practice principles from 169 cases.

INTRODUCTION: Arachnoid cysts are primarily dysembryogenetic splitting or duplication of the embryonic meningeal mesenchyme, hence the paediatric preponderance. Neuroendoscopic cysto-cisternostomy is now the favoured treatment option. We pooled data on middle fossa arachnoid cysts (MCFAC) demographics, clinical presentations, cyst characteristics, neuro-endoscopic cysto-cisternostomy and its outcomes. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: Using search words (from the keywords; 'endoscopic treatment' and 'middle fossa arachnoid cysts') combined using Boolean operators, a systematic review of the PubMed and Cochrane CENTRAL was started on 1st February 2023, as per protocol (PROSPERO CRD42023394345); 65 records and then 46 reports were screened, 169 cases were pooled from the 19 recruited reports for the qualitative and quantitative syntheses, after methodological assessment (significantly excellent 57.9% quality) using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: The male-to-female ratio was 2.4:1, with a weighted average-age of 11.25 years in the modal childhood (32.0%) age-group. Headaches (53/29.3%), seizures (30/16.6%) and macrocephaly (25/13.8%) were the commonest presentations. Right-sided (30/55.6%) and Galassi II (55/48.3%) and III (53/46.5%) lesions were common. Rigid (124/93.9%) endoscopes aided cysto-cisternostomy using mostly bipolar diathermy (31/43.7%) and ventriculostomy forceps (18/25.4%); creating one (22/18.3%), two (14/11.6%) or more (78/65.0%) stomas. Fenestration sites were specifically CNIII&ICA (32/25.8%), CNII&ICA (27/21.8%), CNIII&tentorium cerebelli (23/18.6%), CNIII&PCA (1/0.8%) and through the side of CNVI (1/0.8%) into the pre-pontine cistern. Good clinical and radiological outcomes were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Largely excellent-to-good quality, low-level evidence reported MCFACs presenting in childhood with headaches, seizures and macrocephaly. At least two fenestrations using bipolar-diathermy/forceps and balloon-catheter expansion were used for cysto-cisternostomy, with good outcomes.

Challenging assumptions: "unveiling meritocracy's reality in neurosurgery".

Introduction: Meritocracy, a concept revered as the cornerstone of fairness and equal opportunity, is critically examined in the context of neurosurgery. This article challenges the notion that success in this demanding field is solely determined by individual abilities and effort. It reveals that factors such as background, gender, and socioeconomic status significantly influence one's career trajectory. By investigating how these systemic barriers impact admissions to neurosurgical training programs and professional advancement, the paper underscores the complexity of meritocracy in neurosurgery, suggesting that the meritocratic ideal is more nuanced and influenced by external variables than commonly believed. Results: Certain universities deemed elite offer a curriculum divergent from that of their counterparts in low and middle-income countries. Students at these "elite" institutions gain exposure to new technologies and research incentives, which brings us to the realm of research. Remarkably, 75% of articles originating from developed nations account for just 25% of traumatic brain injury cases. This disparity highlights a significant research imbalance, and the common refrain underscores the need to bolster research capabilities in low-income countries. For neurosurgeons in the developing world, engaging in research often becomes a luxury due to multifaceted challenges. Financial barriers, including publication costs and paywalls for accessing articles, pose significant hurdles. Comparing salaries between countries underscores the glaring divide according to "Neurosurgeon Salary" in 2024. Neurosurgeons in the United States receive a median salary of $412,000 dollars per year, compared to $13,200 dollars in Latin America, as of June 2023. Given such incongruities, the prospect of even attending conferences or workshops abroad remains difficult for neurosurgeons from developing nations. Research isn't cast aside due to a lack of interest but due to resource limitations. The present landscape demands reconsideration. Conclusion: We underscore the journey towards a more inclusive and equitable future in neurosurgery as not just a goal, but a dynamic process fuelled by resilience, collaboration, and a commitment to diversity. The narrative promotes a collective endeavour to dismantle barriers and embrace innovation, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, cross-institutional collaboration, and the amplification of underrepresented voices.

Extra-Articular Endoscopic BP Decompression-Surgical Technique.

We describe all-endoscopic brachial plexus (BP) decompression. Surgery is performed with the patient in the beach-chair position with the usual arthroscopic instruments and pump. The first step is to create 2 portals at the area of the coracoid process and decompress the infraclavicular part of the BP at area of thoracic aperture and coracoid. The second step includes performing 2 portals at supraclavicular fossa and performing decompression of BP at interscalene space. The postoperative period includes a short period of sling immobilization (3-5 days), immediate passive motion after surgery, and active motion after removal of the sling.

Percutaneous thermal radiofrequency rhizotomy of L2-S1 spinal nerve roots in children with cerebral palsy.

OBJECTIVE: This study presents the results of an evaluation of the effectiveness of percutaneous thermal radiofrequency (RF) ablation of spinal nerve roots to reduce spasticity and improve motor function in children with cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the surgical treatment outcomes of 26 pediatric patients with severe CP (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV-V). The assessment protocol included muscle tone assessment using the modified Ashworth scale (MAS), evaluation of passive and active range of motion, gait video recording, and locomotor status evaluation using the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM)-88 scale. Thermal RF rhizotomy (ablation of spinal nerve roots) was performed on all patients at the L2-S1 levels at 70°C for 90 seconds. The statistical data analysis was conducted using the t-test and Mann-Whitney U-test. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Before the operation, the average level of spasticity in the lower-limb muscles of all patients was 3.0 ± 0.2 according to the MAS. In the early postoperative period, the spasticity level in all examined muscle groups significantly decreased to a mean of 1.14 ± 0.15 (p < 0.001). In the long-term postoperative period, the spasticity level in the examined muscle groups averaged 1.49 ± 0.17 points on the MAS (p < 0.001 compared to baseline, p = 0.0416 compared to the early postoperative period). Despite the marked reduction of spasticity in the lower limbs, no significant change in locomotor status according to the GMFM-88 scale was observed in the selected category of patients. In the long-term period, during the control examination of patients, the GMFM-88 level increased on average by 3.6% ± 1.4% (from 22.2% ± 3.1% to 25.8% ± 3.6%). CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study offer preliminary yet compelling evidence that RF ablation of spinal nerve roots can lead to a significant and enduring decrease in muscle tone among children with severe spastic CP. Further studies and longer-term data of the impact on functionality and quality of life of patients with CP after spinal root RF ablation are needed.

Low-Cost 3D Models for Cervical Spine Tumor Removal Training for Neurosurgery Residents.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Spinal surgery, particularly for cervical pathologies such as myelopathy and radiculopathy, requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skill. The complexity of these conditions, often necessitating surgical intervention, underscores the need for intricate understanding and precision in execution. Advancements in neurosurgical training, especially with the use of low-cost 3D models for simulating cervical spine tumor removal, are revolutionizing this field. These models provide the realistic and hands-on experience crucial for mastering complex neurosurgical techniques, filling gaps left by traditional educational methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of 3D-printed cervical vertebrae models in enhancing surgical skills, focusing on tumor removal, and involving 20 young neurosurgery residents. These models, featuring silicone materials to simulate the spinal cord and tumor tissues, provided a realistic training experience. The training protocol included a laminectomy, dural incision, and tumor resection, using a range of microsurgical tools, focusing on steps usually performed by senior surgeons. RESULTS: The training program received high satisfaction rates, with 85% of participants extremely satisfied and 15% satisfied. The 3D models were deemed very realistic by 85% of participants, effectively replicating real-life scenarios. A total of 80% found that the simulated pathologies were varied and accurate, and 90% appreciated the models' accurate tactile feedback. The training was extremely useful for 85% of the participants in developing surgical skills, with significant post-training confidence boosts and a strong willingness to recommend the program to peers. CONCLUSIONS: Continuing laboratory training for residents is crucial. Our model offers essential, accessible training for all hospitals, regardless of their resources, promising improved surgical quality and patient outcomes across various pathologies.

MicroRNAs in meningiomas: Potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Meningiomas, characterized primarily as benign intracranial or spinal tumors, present distinctive challenges due to their variable clinical behavior, with certain cases exhibiting aggressive features linked to elevated morbidity and mortality. Despite their prevalence, the underlying molecular mechanisms governing the initiation and progression of meningiomas remain insufficiently understood. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small endogenous non-coding RNAs orchestrating post-transcriptional gene expression, have garnered substantial attention in this context. They emerge as pivotal biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets, offering innovative avenues for managing meningiomas. Recent research delves into the intricate mechanisms by which miRNAs contribute to meningioma pathogenesis, unraveling the molecular complexities of this enigmatic tumor. Meningiomas, originating from arachnoid meningothelial cells and known for their gradual growth, constitute a significant portion of intracranial tumors. The clinical challenge lies in comprehending their progression, particularly factors associated with brain invasion and heightened recurrence rates, which remain elusive. This comprehensive review underscores the pivotal role of miRNAs, accentuating their potential to advance our comprehension of meningioma biology. Furthermore, it suggests promising directions for developing diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic interventions, holding the promise of markedly improved patient outcomes in the face of this intricate and variable disease.

MiRNAs as new potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in brain metastasis.

Brain metastases represent a formidable challenge in cancer management, impacting a significant number of patients and contributing significantly to cancer-related mortality. Conventional diagnostic methods frequently fall short, underscoring the imperative for non-invasive alternatives. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), specifically microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), present promising avenues for exploration. These ncRNAs exert influence over the prognosis and treatment resistance of brain metastases, offering valuable insights into underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. Dysregulated ncRNAs have been identified in brain metastases originating from various primary cancers, unveiling opportunities for intervention and prevention. The analysis of ncRNA expression in bodily fluids, such as serum and cerebrospinal fluid, provides a noninvasive means to differentiate brain metastases from primary tumors. NcRNAs, particularly miRNAs, assume a pivotal role in orchestrating the immune response within the brain microenvironment. MiRNAs exhibit promise in diagnosing brain metastases, effectively distinguishing between normal and cancer cells, and pinpointing the tissue of origin for metastatic brain tumors. The manipulation of miRNAs holds substantial potential in cancer treatment, offering the prospect of reducing toxicity and enhancing efficacy. Given the limited treatment options and the formidable threat of brain metastases in cancer patients, non-coding RNAs, especially miRNAs, emerge as beacons of hope, serving as both diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets. Further clinical studies are imperative to validate the specificity and sensitivity of ncRNAs, potentially reshaping approaches to tackle this challenge and elevate treatment outcomes for affected patients.

The Impact of Treadmill Training on Tissue Integrity, Axon Growth, and Astrocyte Modulation.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) presents a complex challenge in neurorehabilitation, demanding innovative therapeutic strategies to facilitate functional recovery. This study investigates the effects of treadmill training on SCI recovery, emphasizing motor function enhancement, neural tissue preservation, and axonal growth. Our research, conducted on a rat model, demonstrates that controlled treadmill exercises significantly improve motor functions post-SCI, as evidenced by improved scores on the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor rating scale and enhanced electromyography readings. Notably, the training facilitates the preservation of spinal cord tissue, effectively reducing secondary damage and promoting the maintenance of neural fibers in the injured area. A key finding is the significant stimulation of axonal growth around the injury epicenter in trained rats, marked by increased growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43) expression. Despite these advancements, the study notes a limited impact of treadmill training on motoneuron adaptation and highlights minimal changes in the astrocyte and neuron-glial antigen 2 (NG2) response. This suggests that, while treadmill training is instrumental in functional improvements post-SCI, its influence on certain neural cell types and glial populations is constrained.

On the balance beam: facing the challenges of neurosurgical education in the third millennium.

Background: Neurosurgery is one of the most complex and challenging areas of medicine, and it requires an ongoing commitment to education and expertise. Preparing young neurosurgeons with comprehensive education that can allow them to achieve high professional standards is a pivotal aspect of our profession. Methods: This paper aims to analyze the current scenario in neurosurgical training identifying innovative methods that can guarantee the highest level of proficiency in our specialty. Results: Given the inherent high-stakes nature of neurosurgical procedures, there is a significant burden of responsibility in ensuring that neurosurgical training is of the highest caliber, capable of producing practitioners who possess not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills and well-tuned judgment. Conclusion: Providing high-quality training is one of the major challenges that the neurosurgical community has to face nowadays, especially in low- and middle-income countries; one of the main issues to implementing neurosurgery worldwide is that the majority of African countries and many areas in Southeast Asia still have few neurosurgeons who encounter enormous daily difficulties to guarantee the appropriate neurosurgical care to their population.

The Vertebrobasilar Trunk and Its Anatomical Variants: A Microsurgical Anatomical Study.

BACKGROUND: The trunk of the basilar artery has not been included in microanatomy studies. Anatomical variants of the perforant branches of the vertebrobasilar trunk and their relationship with neural structures are very important in surgical approaches. Surgical dissection for the treatment of vascular lesions requires a perfect knowledge of the microsurgical anatomy. METHODS: We conducted a descriptive analysis of 50 brains, which were fixed with formalin at 10% for 2 weeks, and the arterial system was injected with colored latex. After microsurgical dissection, it was divided into three segments: the lower portion went from the anterior spinal artery to the anteroinferior cerebellar artery, the middle segment was raised from the upper limit of the lower portion to the origin of the superior cerebellar artery, and the upper segment ranged from the previous portion until the origin of the posterior cerebral artery. RESULTS: The basilar artery had an average length of 30 mm. The average diameter at its junction with the vertebral arteries was 4.05 mm. The average middle segment was 3.4 mm in diameter and 15.2 mm in length. The diameter of the upper segment was 4.2 mm, and its average length was 3.6 mm. The average number of bulbar arteries was three, and their average diameter was 0. 66 mm. The number of caudal perforator arteries were five on average, with a diameter of 0.32 mm. We found three rare cases of anatomical variants in the vertebra-basilar junction. CONCLUSIONS: The basilar artery emits penetrating branches in its lower, middle, and upper portions. The origin of penetrating branches was single or divided after forming a trunk. However, we observed long branches from perforant arteries.

Exoscopic removal of the fourth ventricle choroid plexus papilloma with use of a midline suboccipital osteoplastic craniotomy.

Choroid plexus papillomas are relatively rare vascular tumors. In this video, the authors present a pediatric patient who underwent exoscopic removal of the fourth ventricle choroid plexus papilloma with the use of a midline suboccipital osteoplastic craniotomy. The exoscope in the fourth ventricle lesion helps to improve visualization in all directions, with the surgeon being able to maintain a comfortable position throughout the procedure. In addition, the midline suboccipital osteoplastic craniotomy helps to reduce the potential risks of complications, in particular, CSF leak and craniovertebral junction instability. The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2023.10.FOCVID23106.

Bipolar, high-voltage, long-duration pulsed radiofrequency ablation of the Gasserian ganglion for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia in a patient with a cardiac implantable electronic device: illustrative case.

BACKGROUND: One of the common methods of treating trigeminal neuralgia (TN) nowadays is radiofrequency therapy. However, it has serious limitations in patients with a cardiac pacemaker because of electromagnetic interference. Therefore, it is crucial to select optimal radiofrequency ablation parameters to make this procedure safe with favorable outcomes for such patients. OBSERVATIONS: In this study, the authors present a case of a 70-year-old man with a history of cardiac pacemaker dependency and previous microvascular decompression with complaints of severe, constant facial pain. After reprogramming the cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED), the authors performed bipolar, high-voltage, long-duration pulsed radiofrequency therapy (PRFT) of the Gasserian ganglion under electrocardiography and pulse rate control in the pre-, intra-, and postoperative periods. There were no cardiovascular or neurological complications after PRFT. The patient reported relief of pain after the procedure, and at the 9-month follow-up, he was pain-free. LESSONS: This clinical case demonstrates that the use of bipolar, high-voltage PRFT for TN treatment in patients with a CIED can be safe and effective, provided that the rules and pacemaker instructions are followed. It is necessary to use ablative treatment with caution and to guide the patient in collaboration with a cardiac surgeon and an anesthesiologist resuscitator.

Modified orbitozygomatic craniotomy with a single burr hole in the alternative sphenoid ridge keyhole.

BACKGROUND: One-piece modified orbitozygomatic approach (OZA) is an extended version of the pterional approach that also includes orbital walls and frontal process of the zygomatic bone. For this craniotomy one burr hole must be placed in MacCarty keyhole and another - in the temporal region. OBJECTIVE: To develop a technique of the one-piece modified OZA with single a burr hole in the alternative sphenoid ridge keyhole that allows access to orbit, anterior cranial fossa and middle cranial fossa and apply it intraoperatively. METHODS: A single human head specimen was used. The dissection was performed using standard surgical instruments high-speed Stryker drill. Every stage of the approach was photographed. We also report a surgical case of a patient with orbital cavernous hemangioma that was resected using the described technique. RESULTS: The technique of the one-piece modified OZA with a single burr hole in the alternative sphenoid ridge keyhole is described, and its advantages and limitations are analyzed. The technique is used to totally resect an orbital cavernous hemangioma with good functional and cosmetic result. CONCLUSION: Modified OZA with a single burr hole in the sphenoid ridge keyhole is possible and may be an alternative to the classic technique. The advantages of this variation are the placement of just one burr hole and the preservation of a larger portion of the orbital roof. The latter facilitates better bone reconstruction and better cosmetic outcome. Disadvantages are the difficulty of identifying the location of the sphenoid ridge keyhole and risk of damaging the dura.

CircRNAs in Alzheimer's disease: What are the prospects?

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) is a fascinating covalently closed circular non-coding RNA that is abundantly present in the transcriptome of eukaryotic cells. Its versatile nature allows it to participate in a multitude of pathological and physiological processes within the organism. One of its crucial functions is acting as a microRNA sponge, modulating protein transcription levels, and forming interactions with essential RNA-binding proteins. Remarkably, circRNAs demonstrates a specific enrichment in various vital areas of the brain, including the cortex, hippocampus, white matter, and photoreceptor neurons, particularly in aging organisms. This intriguing characteristic has led scientists to explore its potential as a significant biological marker of neurodegeneration, offering promising insights into neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD). In AD, there has been an interesting observation of elevated levels of circRNAs in both peripheral blood and synaptic terminals of affected individuals. This intriguing finding raises the possibility that circRNAs may have a central role in the initiation and progression of AD. Notably, different categories of circRNAs, including HDAC9, HOMER1, Cwc27, Tulp4, and PTK2, have been implicated in driving the pathological changes associated with AD through diverse mechanisms. For instance, these circRNAs have been demonstrated to contribute to the accumulation of beta-amyloid, which is a hallmark characteristic of AD. Additionally, these circRNAs contribute to the excessive phosphorylation of tau protein, a phenomenon associated with neurofibrillary tangles, further exacerbating the disease. Moreover, they are involved in aggravating neuroinflammation, which is known to play a critical role in AD's pathogenesis. Lastly, these circRNAs can cause mitochondrial dysfunction, disrupting cellular energy production and leading to cognitive impairment. As researchers delve deeper into the intricate workings of circRNAs, they hope to unlock its full potential as a diagnostic tool and therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders, paving the way for innovative treatments and better management of such devastating conditions.

Anatomical Justification of Extradural Resection of the Anterior Clinoid Process.

Objective The study aimed to provide neuroanatomical justification of the extradural resection of the anterior clinoid process (ACP). Material and Method Using a cross-sectional study design, 47 cranial computed tomography (CT) scans were examined. There were 31 (65.96%) females aged 28 to 79 years. The measured dimensions were ACP length and width, and optic strut (OS) width. Index (i acp ) was measured as the ratio of ACP width to ACP length. The ACP volume and working operating field (WOF) volume were measured using Syngo.via Siemens program. The percentage expansion of WOF after removal of the ACP was estimated on 5 fixed human cadaver heads with the exoscope VITOM 3D. The possibilities of the combined approach were demonstrated in a clinical case. Results The mean ACP lengths were 11.31 ± 2.76 and 11.54 ± 2.86 mm, on the right and left, respectively. The mean ACP widths were 7.70 ± 1.66 and 7.64 ± 1.67 mm, on the right and left, respectively. Average i acp was 0.67 (minimum 0.45; maximum 0.90). The width of the OS varied in the range from 1.37 to 4.75 mm. The average volume of right ACP was 0.71 ± 0.16 cm 3 , right WOF was 3.26 ± 0.74 cm 3 , left ACP was 0.71 ± 0.15 cm 3 , left and WOF was 3.20 ± 0.76 cm 3 . Removal of the right ACP expanded the right WOF by 22.21 ± 3.88%, and left ACP by 22.78 ± 5.50%. There was an approximately 25% increase in the WOF from the cadaveric dissections. Taking into account the variability of the ACP and OS, we proposed our own surgical classification of complicated (i acp ≥ 0.67; medium OS 2.5 mm ≤ 4.0 mm; wide OS ≥ 4.0 mm; ACP with pneumatization) and uncomplicated ACP (i acp 0.45 ≤ 0.67 mm; i acp ≤ 0.45; narrow OS ≤ 2.5 mm; ACP without pneumatization). Using this classification, we developed an algorithm for ACP dissection and removal. This was piloted in a clinical case of microsurgical clipping of a left internal carotid artery-posterior communicating artery aneurysm via the left minipterional approach. Conclusion Extradural removal of ACP expands the WOF by approximately 25%, it helps neurosurgeons to improve proximal vascular control and avoid complications, and expands the range of indications for neurosurgical interventions in the skull base area.

Comparative Analysis of Cytokine Profiles in Cerebrospinal Fluid and Blood Serum in Patients with Acute and Subacute Spinal Cord Injury.

BACKGROUND: Cytokines are actively involved in the regulation of the inflammatory and immune responses and have crucial importance in the outcome of spinal cord injuries (SCIs). Examining more objective and representative indicators of the patient's condition is still required to reveal the fundamental patterns of the abovementioned posttraumatic processes, including the identification of changes in the expression of cytokines. METHODS: We performed a dynamic (3, 7, and 14 days post-injury (dpi)) extended multiplex analysis of cytokine profiles in both CSF and blood serum of SCI patients with baseline American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grades of A. RESULTS: The data obtained showed a large elevation of IL6 (>58 fold) in CSF and IFN-γ (>14 fold) in blood serum at 3 dpi with a downward trend as the post-traumatic period increases. The level of cytokine CCL26 was significantly elevated in both CSF and blood serum at 3 days post-SCI, while other cytokines did not show the same trend in the different biosamples. CONCLUSIONS: The dynamic changes in cytokine levels observed in our study can explore the relationships with the SCI region and injury severity, paving the way for a better understanding of the pathophysiology of SCI and potentially more targeted and personalized therapeutic interventions.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Papaver rhoeas L. Leaf Extract: Cytotoxic and Antimicrobial Properties.

In the last few decades, the search for metal nanoparticles as an alternative to cancer treatments and antibiotics has increased. In this article, the spectroscopic (ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis), electron-dispersing X-ray (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR)), microscopic (field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and atomic force microscope (AFM)), structural (X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and zetasizer), and analytic (thermogravimetric/differential thermal analyzer (TGA-DTA)) characterization of the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced from Papaver rhoeas (PR) L. leaf extract are presented. PR-AgNPs are generally spherical and have a maximum surface plasmon resonance of 464.03 nm. The dimensions of the manufactured nanomaterial are in the range of 1.47-7.31 nm. PR-AgNPs have high thermal stability and a zeta potential of -36.1 mV. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values (mg L-1) of PR-AgNPs on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans are 1.50, 0.75, 3.00, 6.00, and 0.37, respectively. In the study, the cytotoxic and proliferative effects of PR-AgNPs using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) method on various cancer cell lines (CACO-2 (human colon adenocarcinoma cell), MCF-7 (human breast cancer cell), T98-G (glioblastoma multiforme cell), and healthy HUVEC (human umbilical vein endothelial cell)) cell lines are presented. After 24 and 48 h of the application, the half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) values (µg mL-1) of PR-AgNPs on HUVEC, CACO-2, MCF-7, and T98-G lines are 2.365 and 2.380; 2.526 and 2.521; 3.274 and 3.318; 3.472 and 3.526, respectively. Comprehensive in vivo research of PR-AgNPs is proposed to reveal their potential for usage in sectors such as nanomedicine and nanochemistry.