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BACKGROUND/CONTEXT: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a significant US healthcare burden with millions of lumbar spine procedures annually. Diagnostic tests are essential to guide treatment but provocative discography (PD), the most common diagnostic procedure, is without robust evidence of its value. A non-invasive alternative using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) offers a potential solution. CONTEXT/PURPOSE: We assess cost-effectiveness of MRS with NOCISCAN diagnostic algorithm compared to PD for identifying lumbar discs requiring surgical intervention. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: We conducted cost-effectiveness analysis using modelling. PATIENT SAMPLE: We used data from a clinical study of 139 CLBP patients who met criteria for and received PD of lumbar spine and presented with an ODI score ≥40; comparing PD and MRS-based diagnostics. OUTCOME MEASURES: We considered diagnostic costs, adverse events, surgical costs and outcomes based on a 15-point improvement on the Oswestry Disability Index. METHODS: Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERS) and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were determined. Some authors have consulted for Aclarion. RESULTS: Mean total cost per PD patient was $59,711, and $57,998 for MRS, demonstrating $1712 cost savings per MRS diagnosed patient. Diagnostic costs ($1950 for PD; $1450 for MRS), saved $500 per MRS patient. PD incurred adverse event costs ($57,323) for 1% of patients, which MRS eliminated. MRS-based diagnosis showed 78% surgical success, whereas PD achieved 68%. MRS was the dominant diagnostic strategy, with better clinical outcomes and cost savings. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis confirmed MRS dominance and was cost-effective across a wide range of willingness-to-pay thresholds and across 2 different scenarios which vary base-case outcomes and surgical rates. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates cost-effectiveness dominance of MRS with the Nociscan diagnostic algorithm over PD for identifying CLBP surgical candidates. MRS provides significant cost savings and leads to better surgical outcomes, making it a preferred choice for insurers and health systems.

Leslie Wilson,1 Douglas P Beall,2 Robert Kenneth Eastlack,3 Sigurd Berven,4 Jeffrey C Lotz4 1Department of Pharmacy, UC San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA; 2Comprehensive Specialty Care, Edmond, OK, 73034, USA; 3Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Scripps Clinic, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA; 4Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, UC San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0728, USACorrespondence: Leslie Wilson, Department of Pharmacy, UC San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA, Tel +1 415-990-1012, Email leslie.wilson@ucsf.eduBackground/Context: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a significant US healthcare burden with millions of lumbar spine procedures annually. Diagnostic tests are essential to guide treatment but provocative discography (PD), the most common diagnostic procedure, is without robust evidence of its value. A non-invasive alternative using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) offers a potential solution.Context/Purpose: We assess cost-effectiveness of MRS with NOCISCAN diagnostic algorithm compared to PD for identifying lumbar discs requiring surgical intervention.Study Design/Setting: We conducted cost-effectiveness analysis using modelling.Patient Sample: We used data from a clinical study of 139 CLBP patients who met criteria for and received PD of lumbar spine and presented with an ODI score ≥ 40; comparing PD and MRS-based diagnostics.Outcome Measures: We considered diagnostic costs, adverse events, surgical costs and outcomes based on a 15-point improvement on the Oswestry Disability Index.Methods: Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERS) and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were determined. Some authors have consulted for Aclarion.Results: Mean total cost per PD patient was $59,711, and $57,998 for MRS, demonstrating $1712 cost savings per MRS diagnosed patient. Diagnostic costs ($1950 for PD; $1450 for MRS), saved $500 per MRS patient. PD incurred adverse event costs ($57,323) for 1% of patients, which MRS eliminated. MRS-based diagnosis showed 78% surgical success, whereas PD achieved 68%. MRS was the dominant diagnostic strategy, with better clinical outcomes and cost savings. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis confirmed MRS dominance and was cost-effective across a wide range of willingness-to-pay thresholds and across 2 different scenarios which vary base-case outcomes and surgical rates.Conclusion: This study demonstrates cost-effectiveness dominance of MRS with the Nociscan diagnostic algorithm over PD for identifying CLBP surgical candidates. MRS provides significant cost savings and leads to better surgical outcomes, making it a preferred choice for insurers and health systems.Plain Language Summary: Chronic low back pain (cLBP) is experienced by 20% of the US population. It is difficult to determine the best treatment, and many have unnecessary surgery. Discography is the currently available diagnostic but is invasive, of limited value and with serious adverse events. MRS+Nociscan, a new non-invasive diagnostic uses MR Spectroscopy and an algorithm to identify painful discs, is FDA registered. Our aim is to conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) to compare the economic value of these two diagnostic procedures. Subjects were part of a multicenter study of 139 patients who received MR imaging and PD for chronic low back pain. The intervertebral disc MRS data post-processing was performed using the NOCISCAN-LS software algorithm. We developed a decision tree model comparing provocative discogram (PD) with an MRS+ Nociscan diagnostic algorithm using a health system perspective over 12-months. The primary endpoint was surgical ODI success or failure. Costs were from the Medicare Fee Schedule. We calculated in incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), in terms of the additional cost or savings per additional treatment success gained. The mean total PD group cost per patient was $59,711 and $57,998 in the MRS+Nociscan group demonstrating that MRS-based diagnosis saved $1712 per patient diagnosed. Clinical success with MRS-based diagnosis was 78%, and 68% with PD diagnosis. The cost-effectiveness demonstrated strong MRS-Nociscan dominance, meaning it was both cost saving and a better clinical success. The strong cost-effectiveness dominance for MRS+Nociscan diagnosis answers the budgetary questions for insurers and health systems considering adoption of this new diagnostic tool.Keywords: cost, cost-effectiveness, lumbar spine, diagnostics, outcomes, discography

PURPOSE: Verifying lumbar disc pain can present a clinical challenge. Low-pressure provocative discography (PD) has served as the gold standard, although it is invasive and often a challenge to interpret. We reported that magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) biomarkers accurately predict PD results in lumbar discs and improved outcomes for patients with surgery at positive MRS levels versus nonsurgery. To further substantiate MRS for diagnosing painful discs, we report a prospective comparison of 2 MRS-derived measures: NOCISCORE (pain) and SI-SCORE (degeneration severity). METHODS: Lumbar MRS and software-based postprocessing (NOCISCAN-LS, Aclarion Inc.) was performed in 44 discs in 14 patients (prospective cohort [PC]). PC data were compared to prior data used to establish the NOCISCORE (training cohort [TC]). The NOCISCORE was converted to an ordinal value (high/intermediate/low; NOCI+/mild/-) and compared against painful (P) versus nonpainful (NP) control diagnosis (PD) for 19 discs where PD was performed in the PC (12 NP; 7 P). Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated. The SI-SCORE was compared against MRI Pfirrmann Grades for 465 discs in 126 patients (PC plus TC). RESULTS: For the PC, MRS (NOCI+/-) compared to PD (P/NP) with an accuracy of 87% and sensitivity and specificity of 100%. The positive and negative predictive values of MRS were 100%. NOCISCOREs were significantly higher for PD+ versus PD- discs for PC and TC (P < 0.05), and the NOCISCORE distributions for PD+/- group were not statistically different between the PC and TC (P > 0.05). SI-SCORES differed between Pfirrmann Grades 1 and 2 (less degenerated) versus Grades 3 and 4 (more degenerated; P < 0.05), with a progressively decreasing trend with Pfirrmann Grades 1-5. CONCLUSION: These current data provide prospective confirmation of the predictive value of disc MRS for distinguishing painful discs and for assessing the disc structural integrity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: NOCISCAN is an adoptable, noninvasive, and objectively quantitative test to improve management of low back pain patients.

Aims: The presence of facet tropism has been correlated with an elevated susceptibility to lumbar disc pathology. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of facet tropism on chronic lumbosacral discogenic pain through the analysis of clinical data and finite element modelling (FEM). Methods: Retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data, with a specific focus on the spinal units displaying facet tropism, utilizing FEM analysis for motion simulation. We studied 318 intervertebral levels in 156 patients who had undergone provocation discography. Significant predictors of clinical findings were identified by univariate and multivariate analyses. Loading conditions were applied in FEM simulations to mimic biomechanical effects on intervertebral discs, focusing on maximal displacement and intradiscal pressures, gauged through alterations in disc morphology and physical stress. Results: A total of 144 discs were categorized as ‘positive’ and 174 discs as ‘negative’ by the results of provocation discography. The presence of defined facet tropism (OR 3.451, 95% CI 1.944 to 6.126) and higher Adams classification (OR 2.172, 95% CI 1.523 to 3.097) were important predictive parameters for discography-‘positive’ discs. FEM simulations showcased uneven stress distribution and significant disc displacement in tropism-affected discs, where loading exacerbated stress on facets with greater angles. During varied positions, notably increased stress and displacement were observed in discs with tropism compared to those with normal facet structure. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that facet tropism can contribute to disc herniation and changes in intradiscal pressure, potentially exacerbating disc degeneration due to altered force distribution and increased mechanical stress. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(9):452–461.

This article was written in part to thank the ARSC for the generous award of a grant in spring 2024 to defray expenses whilst researching into British made 78 rpm and vinyl bell records.1 That it focuses on a subset of the 78 rpm record element is because, post-grant, which amongst other things allowed access to two major archives, it became more evident than previously that a relatively large number of privately produced change ringing 78s existed when compared to a relatively small number of change ringing--or indeed any bellringing--records produced by commercial labels. This paper documents attempts by the bellringers themselves to get their music, the result of their exercise2, onto record during the shellac era. The Discography includes all known privately produced church and other tower bell records, including recordings of carillons, plus records of change ringing performed on handbells. Most of these records will have been made in small numbers. Indeed, only two of the records listed were advertised in The Ringing World, the journal of the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers (CCCBR), though a handful more seem to have enjoyed at least some scale of wider distribution within the UK. Perhaps one of the most interesting discoveries made during research was a one-off disc3 made as a 90th birthday present for a bellringer's mother. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resumen: Introducción: Existen diferentes técnicas e interpretaciones de los hallazgos en la discografía para determinarla positiva para el diagnóstico de dolor discogénico. Este estudio pretende evaluar la frecuencia de uso de los hallazgos de la discografía para el diagnóstico de la lumbalgia de origen discogénico. Material y métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática de la literatura de los últimos 17 años en MEDLINE y BIREME. Se identificaron en total 625 artículos, 555 fueron excluidos por duplicados, título y resumen. Se obtuvieron 70 textos completos de los que se incluyeron 36 en el análisis tras excluir 34 por no cumplir los criterios de inclusión. Resultados: Entre los criterios en la discografía para determinarla como positiva, 8 estudios utilizaron únicamente la respuesta del dolor al procedimiento, 28 estudios utilizaron más de un criterio durante la discografía para considerarla positiva, la evaluación de al menos un disco intervertebral adyacente de resultado negativo fue necesario en 26 estudios para considerar una discografía como positiva. Cinco estudios expresaron formalmente el uso de la técnica descrita por la SIS/IASP para determinar una discografía como positiva. Conclusiones: El dolor en respuesta a la inyección de medio de contraste, evaluado con la escala analógica visual de dolor ≥ 6, fue el criterio más utilizado en los estudios incluidos en esta revisión. Aunque ya existen criterios para determinar una discografía como positiva, persiste el uso de diferentes técnicas e interpretaciones de los hallazgos de la discografía para determinar una discografía positiva para el dolor lumbar de origen discogénico. Abstract: Introduction: There are different techniques and interpretations of discography findings to determine it positive for the diagnosis of discogenic pain. This study aims to evaluate the frequency of use of discography findings for the diagnosis of low back pain of discogenic origin. Material and methods: A systematic review of the literature of the last 17 years was performed in MEDLINE and BIREME. A total of 625 articles were identified, 555 were excluded for duplicates, title and abstract. We obtained 70 full texts of which 36 were included in the analysis after excluding 34 for not meeting the inclusion criteria. Results: Among the criteria in discography to determine it as positive, 8 studies used only the pain response to the procedure, 28 studies used more than one criterion during discography to consider it as positive, the evaluation of at least one adjacent intervertebral disc with a negative result was necessary in 26 studies to consider a discography as positive. Five studies formally expressed the use of the technique described by SIS/IASP to determine a discography as positive. Conclusions: Pain in response to contrast medium injection, assessed with the visual analog pain scale ≥ 6, was the most used criterion in the studies included in this review. Although there are already criteria to determine a discography as positive, the use of different techniques and interpretations of discography findings to determine a positive discography for low back pain of discogenic origin persists.

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the MRI high-intensity zone (HIZ) and the pathogenesis of discogenic low back pain. Methods Literature from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, China Knowledge Network, Wanfang Database, and China Biomedical Literature Database was searched until August 2023. Cohort studies including patients with low back pain who underwent lumbar spine MRI and discography, as well as the results evaluating the correlation between HIZ and discography for morphological changes in the disc and pain replication phenomena, were included in the analysis. The literature that met the inclusion criteria was screened, and the methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated. Meta-analysis of the extracted data was performed by using RevMan 5.1.1. Results In total, 28 reports were included in this meta-analysis. There was a statistically significant correlation between a positive HIZ and abnormal disc morphology in discography (OR 28.15, 95% CI [7.38, 107.46], p

Abstract Background Arising from different anatomical structures of the spine, chronic low back pain is one of the leading causes of disability, and its management is still controversial. Thus, appropriate and effective management of chronic low back pain requires a precise diagnostic tool in order to target pain generators. Therefore, the role of diagnostic injection in predicting the outcome of surgical treatment of chronic low back pain and lower limb radicular pain need to be evaluated in order to guide the surgeon, especially in case of unclear pathoanatomical features. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the predictive value of lumbar spine diagnostic injections in surgical outcome in patients with chronic low back pain and lumbar radiculopathy. Patients and methods This study included 30 patients complaining of chronic low back pain and/or lumbar radiculopathy who underwent lumbar spine surgery following positive diagnostic injections. The pre- and postoperative assessments consisted of a general neurological examination, evaluation of the Oswestry disability index, and a visual analog scale. Results This prospective non-controlled study was conducted on 30 patients complaining of chronic low back pain and/or lumbar radiculopathy. The mean age was 42.60 ± 8.27 years with a range of 24.0–62.0 years. The visual analog scale decreased significantly from preoperative mean value of 8.26 ± 0.79 to postoperative mean value of 1.97 ± 0.92; with almost two-thirds of the patients experienced more than 75% pain reduction. The Oswestry disability index decreased significantly from preoperative mean value of 34.13 ± 4.88 to 11.47 ± 3.36 after surgery in the whole sample. The post-selective nerve root block visual analog scale was significantly correlated to the postoperative visual analog scale, while the postoperative Oswestry disability index was not significantly associated with the post-selective nerve root block visual analog scale. Conclusion The use of lumbar selective nerve root block and lumbar provocative discography for patients with chronic low back pain and radiculopathy and equivocal radiological findings can improve surgical outcomes regarding pain intensity and spine functional outcomes. Diagnostic selective nerve root block can predict the postoperative pain relief.

The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent annular fissures, vertebral and endplate changes, and Modic changes (MCs), coexist in low back pain (LBP) patients by using multiple imaging modalities. Sixty-two LBP patients (mean age 45 years, range 24–63, 53% men) were examined with same-day CT-discography and MRI. Intervertebral discs punctured for discography (n = 204) were evaluated on MRI [Pfirrmann grade, High-Intensity Zone (HIZ)] and on CT-discograms [Modified Dallas Discogram Score (DDS)]. DDS≥ 1, i.e., disc fissures involving the outer annulus were further digitomized into delimitable fissuring (<50% of annulus affected) or non-delimitable annular fissuring. Using both MRI and CT, adjacent vertebrae and endplates were assessed for MC, vertebral sclerosis, and a modified endplate defect score (EPS). In 194 discs the contrast agent was adequately injected during discography, of which 160 (83%) displayed outer annular fissures, with 91 (47%) of the latter being delimitable fissures. Most discs with delimitable fissures were moderately degenerated; 68% Pfirrmann grade ≤3, 71% EPS ≤ 2, and 12% displayed MC. The majority (76%) of MCs were associated with advanced adjacent disc degeneration; 84% Pfirrmann grade ≥4, 76% with non-delimitable annular fissuring, 59% EPS≥ 4, and 34% EPS of 3. A total 95 HIZ (47%) were found, of which 54 had delimitable fissuring, while the remainder displayed non-delimitable fissuring. Vertebral sclerosis was commonly observed (26%), both with MCs (73%) and without MCs (27%), and not specifically linked to MC type 3. A total of 97% of segments with vertebral sclerosis displayed outer annular fissures. These findings were significant (0.046 > p > 0.0001), except between HIZ and adjacent sclerosis (p = 0.303). To conclude, the present study confirmed a close interplay between the disc and adjacent vertebra and endplates. The fact that a majority of discs with delimitable annular fissures did not coexist with pronounced endplate changes and/or MCs, however, supports the theory that disc fissuring is an early event in the degenerative cascade. This was further supported by the fact that MCs were strongly linked to extensive disc fissuring and to advanced endplate damage. Further, vertebral sclerosis was common also in vertebra without MCs and strongly associated to annular fissuring, indicating that sclerosis is a previously underestimated feature of a general degenerative process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Arising from different anatomical structures of the spine, chronic low back pain is one of the leading causes of disability, and its management is still controversial. Thus, appropriate and effective management of chronic low back pain requires a precise diagnostic tool in order to target pain generators. Therefore, the role of diagnostic injection in predicting the outcome of surgical treatment of chronic low back pain and lower limb radicular pain need to be evaluated in order to guide the surgeon, especially in case of unclear pathoanatomical features. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the predictive value of lumbar spine diagnostic injections in surgical outcome in patients with chronic low back pain and lumbar radiculopathy. Patients and methods: This study included 30 patients complaining of chronic low back pain and/or lumbar radiculopathy who underwent lumbar spine surgery following positive diagnostic injections. The pre- and postoperative assessments consisted of a general neurological examination, evaluation of the Oswestry disability index, and a visual analog scale. Results: This prospective non-controlled study was conducted on 30 patients complaining of chronic low back pain and/or lumbar radiculopathy. The mean age was 42.60 ± 8.27 years with a range of 24.0–62.0 years. The visual analog scale decreased significantly from preoperative mean value of 8.26 ± 0.79 to postoperative mean value of 1.97 ± 0.92; with almost two-thirds of the patients experienced more than 75% pain reduction. The Oswestry disability index decreased significantly from preoperative mean value of 34.13 ± 4.88 to 11.47 ± 3.36 after surgery in the whole sample. The post-selective nerve root block visual analog scale was significantly correlated to the postoperative visual analog scale, while the postoperative Oswestry disability index was not significantly associated with the post-selective nerve root block visual analog scale. Conclusion: The use of lumbar selective nerve root block and lumbar provocative discography for patients with chronic low back pain and radiculopathy and equivocal radiological findings can improve surgical outcomes regarding pain intensity and spine functional outcomes. Diagnostic selective nerve root block can predict the postoperative pain relief. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the MRI high-intensity zone (HIZ) and the pathogenesis of discogenic low back pain. Methods: Literature from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, China Knowledge Network, Wanfang Database, and China Biomedical Literature Database was searched until August 2023. Cohort studies including patients with low back pain who underwent lumbar spine MRI and discography, as well as the results evaluating the correlation between HIZ and discography for morphological changes in the disc and pain replication phenomena, were included in the analysis. The literature that met the inclusion criteria was screened, and the methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated. Meta-analysis of the extracted data was performed by using RevMan 5.1.1. Results: In total, 28 reports were included in this meta-analysis. There was a statistically significant correlation between a positive HIZ and abnormal disc morphology in discography (OR 28.15, 95% CI [7.38, 107.46], p < 0.00001). Patients with HIZ-positive discs had a significantly higher incidence of consistent pain (71.0%, 969/1365) than those with HIZ-negative imaging (29.0%, 1314/4524) (OR 7.71, 95% CI [5.29, 11.23], p < 0.00001).Segments that were HIZ-positive and had abnormal disc morphology had a higher incidence of consistent pain (86.1%, 230/267) than HIZ-negative subjects (32.2%, 75/233) (OR 14.09, 95% CI [2.12, 93.48], p = 0.006). Conclusion: A positive MRI T2-weighted image of the lumbar disc with HIZ indicates disc degeneration. In addition, HIZ may be a specific indicator for the physical diagnosis of discogenic low back pain. A more advanced degree of disc degeneration on the basis of HIZ positivity corresponded to a greater probability of discography-induced consistent pain, whereas the degree of disc degeneration on the basis of HIZ negativity was less correlated with contrast-induced consistent pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discography is an important method for diagnosing discogenic low back pain (LBP) and replicating the effects of pain. However, its development is not smooth due to its safety and reliability, which have not been completely confirmed. Beginning with the clinicians using discography, there remains constant controversy. With the continuous progress of related research on discography, clinicians and scholars' understanding of discography is constantly improving. This article reviews the background, clinical application, and safety of discography.

Abstract Background It is an ongoing debate whether fusion surgery is superior to non-operative treatment for non-specific low back pain (LBP) in terms of patient outcome. Further, the evidence for how signs of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) correlate with patient outcome is insufficient. Longitudinal studies of low back pain (LBP) patients are thus of interest for increased knowledge. The aim of this study was to investigate long-term MRI appearance in LBP patients 11–14 years after discography. Methods In 2021, 30 LBP patients who had same-day discography and MRI in 2007–2010 were asked to undergo MRI (Th12/L1–L5/S1), complete visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ5D) questionnaires. Patients who had fusion surgery before the follow-up were compared with those without such surgery. MRIs were evaluated on Pfirrmann grade, endplate classification score (EPS), and High Intensity Zones (HIZ). For each disk it was noted if injected at baseline or not. Results Of 17 participants (6 male;mean age 58.5 years, range 49–72), 10 (27 disks) had undergone fusion surgery before the follow-up. No differences in VAS, ODI, or EQ5D scores were found between patients with and without surgery (mean 51/32/0.54 vs. 50/37/0.40, respectively; 0.77 > p p p

Copyright of Epistemus. Journal of Music, Cognition & Culture Research is the property of Facultad de Psicologia Universidad Autonoma de Madrid and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

"The Moaninest Moan of Them All: The Jazz Saxophone of Loren McMurray 1920-1922" is a comprehensive anthology that sheds light on the neglected career of saxophonist Loren McMurray. Raised in a musical family in Kansas, McMurray's discography as a featured sideman began in New York City in 1920. Despite his short life, McMurray made significant contributions to early jazz saxophone recordings, which are explored in detail in this collection. The anthology also addresses McMurray's influence on dance band and early records, challenging existing discographies and highlighting his unique style. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the importance of engaging with early sound recordings beyond their historical sound information, emphasizing their value as mediums for oral performance remediation. It highlights two books, one focusing on oral performance remediation and the other on the interpretation of Don Giovanni recordings. The text also explores changes in listening behaviors in the twenty-first century, pointing out challenges such as the decline in deep listening and attention span due to digital streaming. The books offer insights into historical performance practices and interpretation, encouraging readers to delve deeper into the world of sound recordings. [Extracted from the article]

Background: It is an ongoing debate whether fusion surgery is superior to non-operative treatment for non-specific low back pain (LBP) in terms of patient outcome. Further, the evidence for how signs of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) correlate with patient outcome is insufficient. Longitudinal studies of low back pain (LBP) patients are thus of interest for increased knowledge. The aim of this study was to investigate long-term MRI appearance in LBP patients 11–14 years after discography. Methods: In 2021, 30 LBP patients who had same-day discography and MRI in 2007–2010 were asked to undergo MRI (Th12/L1–L5/S1), complete visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ5D) questionnaires. Patients who had fusion surgery before the follow-up were compared with those without such surgery. MRIs were evaluated on Pfirrmann grade, endplate classification score (EPS), and High Intensity Zones (HIZ). For each disk it was noted if injected at baseline or not. Results: Of 17 participants (6 male;mean age 58.5 years, range 49–72), 10 (27 disks) had undergone fusion surgery before the follow-up. No differences in VAS, ODI, or EQ5D scores were found between patients with and without surgery (mean 51/32/0.54 vs. 50/37/0.40, respectively; 0.77 > p < 0.65). Other than more segments with EPS ≥ 4 in the surgery group (p < 0.05), no between-group differences were found in longitudinal change in MRI parameters. Of 75 non-fused disks, 30 were injected at baseline. Differences were found between injected and non-injected disks at both baseline and follow-up for Pfirrmann grade and HIZ, and at follow-up for EPS (0.04 > p < 0.001), but none for progression over time (0.09 > p < 0.82). Conclusions: Other than more endplate changes in the surgery group, no differences in longitudinal change of MRI parameters were established between LBP patients treated with or without fusion surgery in the studied cohort. The study also highlights the limited progress of degenerative changes, which may be seen over a decade, despite needle puncture and chronic LBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article seeks to analyze Geraldo Vandré's musical itinerary based on his discography, composed of five LPs and other compilations and singles. The focus of the text is the trait of love present in his various works, be it the love of a woman or the more general love, dedicated to the people or the nation, understood as his lover or companion. The development of the work took place in a chronological perspective, from its first LP produced in Brazil, in 1964, to the last, already in times of exile, produced in France and released in Brazil in 1973. It was a project that aimed to favor knowledge of a brilliant composer and singer, who enchanted a left-wing generation before the AI5 blackout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Musical Chilena is the property of Universidad de Chile and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: This study investigates the epigenetic landscape underlying painful intervertebral disk (IVD) degeneration in a single subject with a history of low back pain (LBP). Intervertebral disk degeneration is associated with LBP in some individuals; however, there is often a discrepancy between degeneration and pain. We hypothesize that DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism previously linked to discogenic LBP, is dysregulated in symptomatic vs asymptomatic IVDs., Objectives: Identify differentially methylated genes and pathways in symptomatic vs asymptomatic IVDs., Methods: Three lumbar IVDs with similar degeneration severity were tested prior to surgery by discography to identify symptomatic IVDs. Methylation analysis was performed on ∼935,000 cytosine guanine dinucleotide sites on nucleus pulposus DNA. We explored differential methylation and pathway enrichment on cytosine guanine dinucleotide sites located within the promoter regions of genes., Results: Two IVDs (L3/L4 and L4/L5) evoked pain ratings of 10/10 and 8/10, one IVD (L5/S1) scored 0/10. DNA methylation differed between symptomatic and asymptomatic IVDs. Several identified genes have roles in extracellular matrix remodeling. Other differentially methylated genes were related to immunomodulation and ion channel function. Finally, several long noncoding RNA genes were identified, encouraging further exploration into these regulatory molecules. Enriched pathways were associated with immune response, hormonal regulation, nervous system development, and musculoskeletal development and remodeling., Conclusion: This case study provides a promising list of candidate genes for therapeutic development for discogenic LBP and suggests a role for DNA methylation in the development of symptomatic vs asymptomatic IVD degeneration, calling for further research to validate and expand these findings., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. This work was supported by National Institutes of Health R21 DA020108 to L.S.S. and L.J.K. (see acknowledgements), R34NS126032 (to D.S. and L.S.S.), and the University of Minnesota Medical School Department of Anesthesiology. The funders had no role in study design, execution, or analysis. Data statement: The DNA methylation data are available in supplemental table 1 (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/RE5PG). Raw FASTQ files will be submitted at the time of acceptance to the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/) and are also available upon request. Study pre-registration: Not applicable. Open materials statement: The components of the research methodology needed to reproduce the reported procedure(s) and analyses are publicly available., (Copyright © 2025 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of The International Association for the Study of Pain.)

Starting with the idea that sustainability as a concept can (and should) be applied in the field of incidental music, thus, ensuring the continuation of its life after the curtain falls, we argue that discography is one of the main ways in which incidental music (like any other type of music) can be preserved and later studied. We argue that discography (as a sustainability tool) equals the survival (survivability) of incidental music and test this hypothesis on four case studies - compact discs and releases of incidental music of four composers: Vojislav Voki Kostić, Zoran Erić, Zoran Simjanović and Isidora Žebeljan.

The study of gramophone records is important when acquainting oneself with Mijat Mijatović (1887-1937), who strongly impacted so-called folk music in the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes / Yugoslavia, considering the importance of the records he released during his career. His opus of commercial recordings is the largest of the interwar period in the area and, therefore, it is highly indicative when considering the correlation between the early music industry and ‘local’ culture as a glocal topic. In this study we present numerous sources and a complex critical analysis that resulted in Mijatović’s discography. Special attention has been paid to record companies, the chronology of recordings, the repertoire and collaborating musicians, thus mapping the potential of discography for the study of recorded music and cultural history.

A significant part of the Radio Belgrade programme, especially in the years before the establishment of instrumental and choral ensembles within this institution, was comprised of music recordings. Although gramophone record concerts were presented within the programme announcements, they were not considered in more detail in existing studies of music on Radio Belgrade. One of the reasons for this could be limited access to the data on the gramophone record concerts. Thus, for the first analysis of this segment of the music programme, the author has focused on the first year in which weekly radio programme announcements were printed in Radio Beograd: nedeljni ilustrovani časopis. The announcements contained data about music numbers, recordings companies, and serial numbers of the records played. More precisely, the series of His Master’s Voice concerts, named after the label of records exclusively broadcast in the programme, were examined in the period from October 1930 to October 1931. This particular series was chosen because of the importance of the label in both the global and local mu­sic industry and the continual broadcasted of His Master’s Voice records on Radio Belgrade. Furthermore, the diversity of programme conceptions of concerts within the series indicates the particular ways in which gramophone record concerts were designed. Based on the series of His Master’s Voice concerts, three methods of categorising gramophone record concerts are suggested. In addition, the paper offers little known archival data on gramophone record distributors who borrowed records to Radio Belgrade for marketing purposes.

The article discusses the book "Nefarious Artists" by Welly Artcore, which explores the evolution of punk rock, post-punk, and alternative rock compilation records from 1976 to 1989. The book highlights the diversity within the punk scene, focusing on the Southwest, and challenges traditional linear narratives of punk history. It is recommended for historians, music enthusiasts, and academics interested in genre interrogation. Additionally, the article briefly mentions the historical significance of zines in documenting the reception of popular art and music by fans, particularly within the punk culture. [Extracted from the article]

The article "Chasing the Masters: First Takes of a Modern Drumming Artist" reviews Phil Haynes' career as a drummer, percussionist, and composer, highlighting his significant discography and musical journey. Born in Oregon in 1961, Haynes found his passion for drums early on and pursued a successful career in jazz music. The article also discusses Haynes' struggles with depression, his mentorship under Paul Smoker, and his contributions to the jazz community. Overall, the article provides a detailed account of Haynes' life and musical achievements, making it a valuable resource for jazz enthusiasts and researchers. [Extracted from the article]

"Monk's Music: An Illustrative Discography" is a book that delves into the recordings of jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk, highlighting his influence on the genre and the unique flair of his compositions. The book provides a comprehensive guide to Monk's music releases across various formats, offering insights into his body of work and the impact he had on other musicians. Despite some organizational challenges, the book is a valuable resource for Monk collectors and fans, shedding light on his recorded legacy. [Extracted from the article]

ObjectiveOblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) has unique advantages in the treatment of discogenic low back pain (DBP). However, there are few studies in this area, and no established standard for additional posterior internal fixation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of OLIF stand-alone vs. combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation (PPSF) in the treatment of DBP.MethodsThis retrospective case-control study included forty patients. All patients were diagnosed with DBP by discography and discoblock. Perioperative parameters (surgery duration, blood loss, and muscle damage), complications, Visual analog scale (VAS), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were assessed. Imaging data including cage subsidence, cage retropulsion, fusion rate, and adjacent spondylosis degeneration (ASD) were analyzed.ResultsThere were 23 patients in the OLIF stand-alone group and 17 patients in the OLIF + PPSF group. The mean surgery duration, blood loss, and muscle damage in the OLIF stand-alone group were significantly better than those in the OLIF + PPSF group (P 0.05). There was no significant difference in the VAS and ODI scores between the two groups before surgery (P > 0.05), and VAS and ODI scores significantly improved after surgery (P 0.05). At the last follow-up, there was no significant difference in cage subsidence, fusion rate, ASD and complication rate between the two groups (P > 0.05).ConclusionOLIF stand-alone and OLIF + PPSF are both safe and effective in the treatment of DBP, and there is no significant difference in the long-term clinical and radiological outcomes. OLIF stand-alone has the advantages of surgery duration, blood loss, muscle damage, and early clinical effect. More clinical data are needed to confirm the effect of OLIF stand-alone on cage subsidence and ASD. This study provides a basis for the clinical application of standard DBP treatment with OLIF.

This article is the result of my research of Yugoslav pop music discography in the second half of the 1980s, focused on the processes of implementation of digital musical instruments and general-purpose computers into music production – as original sound sources or replacements for acoustic instruments, as well as poetic metaphors and elements of graphic design of record covers. Based on the data available from recording staff listings, interviews with musicians/producers and the listening experience, the paper covers the most prominent examples of aforementioned practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the 1950s, Radio Belgrade commenced its own production of gramophone records, which is the topic of this paper. These 78rpm records were issued under the label Jugodisk, understood as forerunner of the later established PGP RTB/RTS. However, in the absence of catalogues, the information on those records is scarce. It seems that records were not issued regularly and that only some of them were intended for the market. The paper is aimed at gathering the presently known data, including new research results based on the archived documents, newspaper articles, and a comparison of several collections of Jugodisk records and data on available records. The body of music presented is then discussed in the context of the Yugoslav music and media culture of the time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Musical Chilena is the property of Universidad de Chile and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The present work proposes to analyze the aesthetic impact of loudness war on Angra's discography, verifying how it affected the band's albums (in terms of equalization, compression and limitation), the reflection of such factors on the aesthetic experience of hearing, and the possibility that Angra has incorporated characteristics resulting from it to its aesthetic proposal in the albums released in the post-streaming period. Along with listening to the material and analyzing the waveforms, the methodology, inspired by Deruty and Tardieu (2014), consists of measuring and analyzing true peak, RMS, peak to RMS, and loudness of Angra's nine studio albums. In conclusion, some evidence of the alignment of Angra's discography with the loudness war is presented, with due reservations, addressing psychoacoustic, timbristic and stylistic issues; and evidence is presented that Angra incorporated in the post-streaming aesthetic characteristics resulting from it, specifying which were such features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature that problematizes Brazilian Popular Music of the 1970s tends to cut it through an experimentalist bias that had three pillars: individualism, crack songs and critical songs. The author problematizes the artistic trajectory of the composer Belchior within this frame, aiming precisely to understand how the songbook brought experimentalism in his work. The main sources gather the songs and album covers of Belchior's discography from the 1970s to the 1990s. At the end, the text takes stock of the analytical possibilities that Belchior could offer, taking into account the interpretative gaps that exist in the popular music of the 1970s decade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The aim of this paper is to outline the basic procedures for cataloguing standard gramophone records, focusing on publication date determination. Determining the publication date is a key (and obligatory) step which plays a major role in the correct identification and cataloguing of the sound documents included in the collections of Czech memory institutions. However, the determination of the date of publication of certain types of sound documents, such as historical gramophone records, is a challenging task. This paper presents a case study of various date determination methods and their application in cataloguing practice, using as an example the personal discothèque of R. A. Dvorský, an early 20th century popular music performer and composer, which forms part of the National Museum - Czech Museum of Music phonotheque. Design/Methodology/Approach - The collection of standard gramophone records from R. A. Dvorský's discothèque was catalogued in compliance with the RDA core elements requirements and in the MARC 21 format, based on the publication dates found on the labels of standard gramophone records and using various types of specialised sources (historical catalogues, discographies, electronic databases, reference books etc.). The paper presents examples of ways in which various resource types can be used and publication dates recorded in the catalogue system. Results - The intended outcomes are the following: 1) The application of specialized sources in the determination of standard gramophone records publication dates. 2) A case study of the cataloguing of standard gramophone records from the collections of the National Museum - Czech Museum of Music in compliance with the RDA standards in the MARC 21 format. Originality/Value - The main contribution of this paper is that it demonstrates the process of describing and cataloguing standard gramophone records included in the collections of the National Museum - Czech Museum of Music in compliance with the RDA standards in the MARC 21 format. Another benefit is the overview of ways in which various types of auxiliary sources, which are key for determining the publication dates of standard gramophone records, can be applied. These types of sources can be used by memory institutions' cataloguers and documenters for cataloguing and keeping records of standard gramophone records collections. Retrospective dating of recordings enables incomplete descriptions of sound carriers to be completed, for example within the VISK 5 (retrospective cataloguing) programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Muzikologija is the property of Serbian Academy of Sciences & Arts, Institute of Musicology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista de la Biblioteca Nacional Jose Marti is the property of Biblioteca Nacional de Cuba Jose Marti and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Provocative discography (PD) is a test that is useful in diagnosing discogenic pain (DP). In this study, to diagnose DP, we used a posterolateral approach of needle placement and followed pressure criteria laid down by the Spine Intervention Society. The aim was to identify the correlation between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings (desiccation, high intensity zone and change in shape and size of the disc) and the results of PD. Methods: Records of 50 patients who underwent PD for DP were analyzed. A total of 109 PDs were performed, with 54 suspect and 55 control discs. Alternate pain generators were ruled out. Results: A total of 35 suspect discs were positive on PD. The mean disc pressure in the suspect disc was 31.9 ± 7.9 psi (range, 15-44). Of the 50 patients who underwent PD, 35 had positive MRI findings. A significant positive correlation was found only between disc desiccation and discography result (r = 0.6, P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that only desiccation successfully predicted the result of discography (OR = 26.5, P < 0.001); a high intensity zone and a disc protrusion/extrusion had an OR 2.3 and 1.24, respectively. Disc desiccation of Pfirmann grade 3 or more had a sensitivity and specificity of 0.93 and 0.64 respectively in identifying painful discs; the positive likelihood ratio was 2.58 while the negative likelihood ratio was 0.11. Conclusions: In patients with DP, disc desiccation is the most useful MRI feature that predicts a painful disc on PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Current Bibliography" is an annotated index to research on recording history that has appeared recently in specialized journals. To be indexed here an article must be in English, be reasonably substantive, and deal with recording history--as opposed to musicology, sociology, or contemporary subjects such as collecting or record reviews. "W/D" or "discog." means that the article was accompanied by something at least remotely resembling a discography. Issues covered this time were received between February and August 2021. If you contact one of these publications or authors, please mention ARSC and "Current Bibliography.". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pathé company, although one of the key players at the dawn of the phonographic industry, is today one of the least documented. This article will explore the unconventional methods utilized by Pathé's technology, through the monumental developments of the phonographic industry, in order to understand the underlying reasons of Pathé's market strategies as they relate to other leading international players. Today, there is a significant amount of uncertainty regarding the cataloging of Pathé's products, mainly due to a distinct two-step duplication process, the code system management of each media issue, and the Pathé's own destruction of primary sources from its acoustical period. The compilation of a discography requires a significant amount of research effort and data validation. In the case of Pathé, the available data are difficult to certify, especially where the reference/bibliography provide conflicting or questionable reports. To address these problems and accurately identify and catalog each issue of Pathé's cylinders and discs, the company's peculiar code system and its internal connections are examined and described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starting with the hypothesis that sound recordings published by the Serbian/ Yugoslav record label PGP-RTB/RTS dominated programmes of the Radio Television Belgrade/Radio Television Serbia during most of the twentieth century (while declining in this century), and that decisions made within the label on which composers’ works were going to be (repeatedly) present in its catalogue consequently had significant impact on overall music and media culture in Serbia/Yugoslavia, our goal was to examine how the central composer figure of Serbian music, Stevan Stojanović Mokranjac, was represented in this catalogue. Research methods were based primarily on analysis of archive material gathered in documentation of the label itself, data on recordings available via online music databases, and recordings themselves, while relying on theoretical notions of canon in music, with the accent on the performing canon. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. 177004: Serbian Musical Identities within Local and Global Frameworks: Traditions, Changes, Challenges]

This article provides extra information about Maria Kapkidi’s Ali Pasha discography. In it both the structure of the discography and the terminology used will be clarified. This is a shortened version (thanks, Paula!) of the original article which can be viewed on www.recordingpioneers.com. This discography is thematic: it contains both acoustic recordings and electric recordings on 78rpm gramophone records of songs about Ali Pasha and covers the period of 1904 to 1957. These recordings were made by a broad scala of record companies, big and small, which were active in the Ottoman Empire (Turkey) and Greece. The discography also contains recordings made in America and recordings that were originally made in Europe and later reissued in the USA. It clearly shows the various administrative practices of record companies during that period, but also shows how discographical practices of a particular company were subject to change with the passing of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on wars waged by the perversity of the spirit against the wealth accumulated by the spirit. Topics include a process of malformation and misinterpretation producing deviations in style between strong poets; and emergence of a hyperbolic, creative imagination based on the precursor's work.

Summary of Background Data The literature on cervical provocation discography (C-PD) is sparse. A "Startle Response" during C-PD is a known phenomenon that might be mistaken as an indicator of discogenic pain at the provoked disc level, but this has not been quantitatively described. Objectives To determine the incidence of the Startle Response and its concordance/discordance with true-positive C-PD in patients referred for surgical planning or evaluation after ruling out other axial pain generators. Methods Retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients who received C-PD at an outpatient spine center. The primary outcome was the rate of discordance of the Startle Response with true-positive C-PD according to the operational criteria of the Spine Intervention Society (SIS) guidelines. Results One hundred five discs were provoked in 36 individuals (19 female, mean age [SD] = 45.7 [10.9] years). C-PD was performed at a median of three levels (range = 1–5) with C4/5 (N = 30), C5/6 (N = 30), and C6/7 (N = 31) the most commonly evaluated. Twenty-six of 36 patients reported responses consistent with true-positive C-PD. A Startle Response was observed in 14 patients (39%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 23–57%), and 22 of 105 (21%, 95% CI = 14–30%) provoked discs. Of the 14 patients who exhibited a Startle Response, four had negative C-PD results (29%, 95% CI = 8–58%). As assessed per disc, C-PD results were positive in 12 of the 22 (55%, 95% CI = 32–76%) provoked discs that generated a Startle Response. Conclusions The present data demonstrate high discordance, 45% (95% CI = 24–68%), between the Startle Response and true-positive C-PD. Clinicians should be aware of this phenomenon and take care to distinguish it from a true-positive response during C-PD, as defined by the SIS guidelines. Misinterpretation of the Startle Response as a positive C-PD result may lead to inappropriate future care decisions in a substantial proportion of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent passing of English guitarist Julian Bream (1933-2000) has motivated a reevaluation of his artistic legacy by critics around the world. The current article reads the relationship between Bream's discography and that of his predecessor, Andrés Segovia, in light of Harold Bloom's theory of influence, methodology first proposed and defended in my 2006 doctoral dissertation. After dividing Bream's fifty albums in phases inspired by Bloomian categories, the article carefully attends to the works repeatedly recorded by Bream, in particular, those to which he returns three or more times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Posterior epidural migration of lumbar disc fragments (PEMLDF) is extremely rare. It is often confused with other posterior lesions and is usually diagnosed intraoperatively. We here describe the use of preoperative discography in the diagnosis of PEMLDF. Case presentation A 78-year-old man presented with acute low back pain, gait disturbance, and paresthesia in both legs. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a mass located posteriorly and laterally to the left aspect of the dural sac at the L3 level. The initial diagnosis indicated PEMLDF, malignancy, spontaneous hematoma, or epidural abscess. L3/4 discography clearly showed leakage of the contrast medium into the posterior dural space, indicating PEMLDF. The lesion was identified intraoperatively as a herniated-disc fragment, consistent with the preoperative discography. Conclusion PEMDLF is difficult to diagnose preoperatively. Discography is useful for the definitive diagnosis of PEMDLF prior to surgery.