bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Du côté du patient et du côté de l’analyste : deux expériences de vécus traumatiques en temps de crise du Covid-19
Authors: Burdet Martina
Published: October 2023

L’auteur développe deux exemples particuliers observés dans son travail analytique au début de la crise marquée par le Covid-19. L’un situé du côté du patient, se réfère au cas d’une personne déjà victime de traumatismes précoces et de blessures narcissiques au moment où la crise sanitaire et le confinement viennent ressusciter en lui ses blessures les plus archaïques. L’autre exemple concerne, au même moment, la sidération traumatique contretransférentielle vécue par certains analystes, et comment le fait d’avoir pu accéder au contenu de multiples activités online et de rester connectés, toujours online , a permis de sortir de cet état et de pouvoir mettre ou remettre en marche une pensée qui avait pu se paralyser pour un temps chez certains.
Fuzzy-Logical model for analysis of sustainable development of fuel and energy complex enterprises
Authors: Borodin Alex , Streltsova Elena , Mamedov Zahid , Yakovenko Irina , Mityshina Irina , Streltsov Artem
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this article is to build a mathematical model for analyzing the sustainability of the development of an enterprise in the fuel and energy complex, integrated into an information management system. It is noted that one of the strategic dominants in achieving the national goal of accelerating the technological development of any country is to ensure the effective functioning of enterprises in the fuel and energy complex. It is substantiated that these enterprises represent the basis of the material life of society, thus, ensuring their sustainable development is a significant factor for the formation of the structure of sectoral and inter-sectoral industrial complexes. In order to analyze the sustainable development of enterprises, an integral indicator is proposed, the components of which are the vectors of production, organizational, economic, environmental and social characteristics. Due to the weak structure of some characteristics, to solve the problem of their synthesis with quantitatively defined indicators, it is proposed to use the mathematical apparatus of fuzzy logic. Weakly structured indicators are formally described by linguistic variables. To establish the dependence of the integral indicator of sustainable development on production, organizational, economic, environmental and social indicators, a fuzzy-logical model has been built, which makes it possible to use the knowledge of experts by constructing rules of fuzzy inference. The fuzzy logic model is implemented using MATLAB tools. On the constructed model, experiments were carried out to assess the impact of each of the local indicators of sustainable development of an enterprise on the integral indicator. The advantage of the constructed model is its adaptability to changes in the operating conditions of enterprises.
Portrait age recognition method based on improved ResNet and deformable convolution
Authors: Xi Ji , Xu Zhe , Yan Zihan , Liu Wenjie , Liu Yanting
Published: October 2023

ResNet-based correlation models excel in age recognition algorithms, but specific age recognition research is currently limited and often plagued by substantial errors. We introduce an enhanced portrait age recognition algorithm based on ResNet, using CORAL (consistent rank logits) rank consistent ordered regression instead of traditional classification to predict precise ages. We further improve this approach by incorporating DCN (deformable convolution), resulting in the DCN-R model. DCN dynamically adjusts convolution kernels for diverse faces, improving accuracy and robustness. We tested DCN-R34 and DCN-R50 against the SOTA model, achieving better results with the same complexity. This reduces the computational load while maintaining or enhancing performance.
Adaptive predefined-time robust control for nonlinear time-delay systems with different power Hamiltonian functions
Authors: Liu Shutong , Yang Renming
Published: October 2023

The article studies $ H_\infty $ control as well as adaptive robust control issues on the predefined time of nonlinear time-delay systems with different power Hamiltonian functions. First, for such Hamiltonian systems with external disturbance and delay phenomenon, we construct the appropriate Lyapunov function and Hamiltonian function of different powers. Then, a predefined-time $ H_\infty $ control approach is presented to stabilize the systems within a predefined time. Furthermore, when considering nonlinear Hamiltonian system with unidentified disturbance, parameter uncertainty and delay, we devise a predefined-time adaptive robust strategy to ensure that the systems reach equilibrium within one predefined time and have better resistance to disturbance and uncertainty. Finally, the validity of the results is verified with a river pollution control system example.
Blow-up in a $ p $-Laplacian mutualistic model based on graphs
Authors: Zhou Ling , Liu Zuhan
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we study a $ p\, $-Laplacian ($ p > 2 $) reaction-diffusion system based on weighted graphs that is used to describe a network mutualistic model of population ecology. After overcoming difficulties caused by the nonlinear $ p\, $-Laplacian, we develop a new strong mutualistic condition, and the blow-up properties of the solution for any nontrivial initial data are proved under this condition. In this sense, we extend the blow-up results of models with a graph Laplacian ($ p = 2 $) to a general graph $ p\, $-Laplacian.
Further properties of Tsallis extropy and some of its related measures
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Said , Barakat Haroon M. , Mutairi Aned Al , Mustafa Manahil SidAhmed
Published: October 2023

This article introduces the concept of residual and past Tsallis extropy as a continuous information measure within the context of continuous distribution. Moreover, the characteristics and their relationships with other models are evaluated. Several stochastic comparisons are provided, along with outcomes concerning order statistics. Additionally, the models acquired include instances such as uniform and power function distributions. The measure incorporates its monotonic traits, and the outcomes defining its characteristics are presented. On the other hand, a different portrayal of the Tsallis extropy is introduced, expressed in relation to the hazard rate function. The Tsallis extropy of the lifetime for both mixed and coherent systems is explored. In the case of mixed systems, components' lifetimes are considered independent and identically distributed. Additionally, constraints on the Tsallis extropy of these systems are established, along with a clarification of their practical applicability. Non-parametric estimation using an alternative form of Tsallis function extropy for simulated and real data is performed.
Integrative approach for classifying male tumors based on DNA methylation 450K data
Authors: Wu Ji-Ming , Qiu Wang-Ren , Liu Zi , Xu Zhao-Chun , Zhang Shou-Hua
Published: October 2023

Malignancies such as bladder urothelial carcinoma, colon adenocarcinoma, liver hepatocellular carcinoma, lung adenocarcinoma and prostate adenocarcinoma significantly impact men's well-being. Accurate cancer classification is vital in determining treatment strategies and improving patient prognosis. This study introduced an innovative method that utilizes gene selection from high-dimensional datasets to enhance the performance of the male tumor classification algorithm. The method assesses the reliability of DNA methylation data to distinguish the five most prevalent types of male cancers from normal tissues by employing DNA methylation 450K data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. First, the chi-square test is used for dimensionality reduction and second, L1 penalized logistic regression is used for feature selection. Furthermore, the stacking ensemble learning technique was employed to integrate seven common multiclassification models. Experimental results demonstrated that the ensemble learning model utilizing multiple classification models outperformed any base classification model. The proposed ensemble model achieved an astonishing overall accuracy (ACC) of 99.2% in independent testing data. Moreover, it may present novel ideas and pathways for the early detection and treatment of future diseases.
Research and experiment on global path planning for indoor AGV via improved ACO and fuzzy DWA
Authors: Zhou Zhen , Geng Chenchen , Qi Buhu , Meng Aiwen , Xiao Jinzhuang
Published: October 2023

In order to obtain an optimal trajectory for indoor AGV, this paper combined an improved ACO and fuzzy DWA (IACO-DWA) algorithm, which can provide an optimal path with collision-free under higher optimization efficiency. The highlights of this paper are detailed as follows: Firstly, an improved adaptive pseudo-random transition strategy is adopted in the state transition probability with an angle factor. A reward and punishment mechanism is introduced in the pheromone updating strategy, then a path optimization strategy called IACO is proposed for the more optimized path. Secondly, IDWA adopted three fuzzy controllers of direction, security and adjustment coefficients through evaluating directional and safety principles, then improving the angular velocity by processing the linear velocity with linear normalization. By adapting to the changes of the environment, the IDWA parameters can be dynamically adjusted to ensure the optimal running speed and reasonable path of AGV. Thirdly, aiming to deal with the path-planning problem in complex environments, we combined IACO with IDWA, the hybrid algorithm involves dividing the globally optimal path obtained from IACO planning into multiple virtual sub-target points. IDWA completes the path planning by switching between these local target points, thereby improving the efficiency of the path planning. Finally, simulations is verified by Matlab and experiment results on the QBot2e platform are given to verify IACO-DWA algorithm's effectiveness and high performance.
Multimedia IoT-surveillance optimization model using mobile-edge authentic computing
Authors: Alamri Faten S. , Haseeb Khalid , Saba Tanzila , Lloret Jaime , Jimenez Jose M.
Published: October 2023

Smart technologies are advancing the development of cutting-edge systems by exploring the future network. The Internet of Things (IoT) and many multimedia sensors interact with each other for collecting and transmitting visual data. However, managing enormous amounts of data from numerous network devices is one of the main research challenges. In this context, various IoT systems have been investigated and have provided efficient data retrieval and processing solutions. For multimedia systems, however, controlling inefficient bandwidth utilization and ensuring timely transmission of vital information are key research concerns. Moreover, to transfer multimedia traffic while balancing communication costs for the IoT system, a sustainable solution with intelligence in real-life applications is demanded. Furthermore, trust must be formed for technological advancement to occur; such an approach provides the smart communication paradigm with the incorporation of edge computing. This study proposed a model for optimizing multimedia using a combination of edge computing intelligence and authentic strategies. Mobile edges analyze network states to discover the system's status and minimize communication disruptions. Moreover, direct and indirect authentication determines the reliability of data forwarders and network stability. The proposed authentication approach minimizes the possibility of data compromise and increases trust in multimedia surveillance systems. Using simulation testing, the proposed model outperformed other comparable work in terms of byte delivery, packet overhead, packet delay, and data loss metrics.
L’art d’effacer le graffiti : la couleur du vide
Authors: García Lisa
Published: October 2023

Nous nous concentrerons sur le centre historique de Madrid, où l’effacement du tag et du graffiti depuis les années 1990 constitue l’un des fers de lance électoral des administrations municipales. Le conflit oppose les graffeurs et la mairie, dans un va‑et‑vient incessant qui voit s’alterner surface remplie et surface vidée, restauration et anéantissement de la monochromie murale. L’effacement du graffiti donne lieu à un phénomène paradoxal, qu'il est proposé d’analyser ici : les rectangles de peinture (appelés « buff ») apposés par les agents de propreté pour recouvrir les écritures illégales, au lieu de rétablir un vide, viennent emplir l’espace urbain d’un patchwork de couleurs.
La chute d’Étienne du Perche, chancelier du royaume de Sicile, vécue par deux contemporains, Hugues Falcand et Pierre de Blois
Authors: Türk Egbert
Published: October 2023

Après la mort du roi Guillaume Ier (1166), la cour de Palerme connut une période agitée, en dépit des précautions prises par le monarque avant sa mort. En effet, le rôle de régente, prévu pour la veuve de Guillaume, Marguerite de Navarre, s’est révélé très vite trop lourd à assumer, compte tenu des rivalités incessantes entre les dignitaires de la cour. La régente fit alors appel à sa propre famille, et c’est ainsi que le cousin de sa mère, Étienne du Perche, en 1166, s’est mis en route pour Palerme, où il se vit aussitôt nommé chancelier et élu archevêque de la capitale. Cette promotion éclair d’un étranger aux postes les plus prestigieux du royaume, loin d’apaiser les dissensions, ne fit que les aggraver, et ce n’est que le départ forcé d’Étienne, en 1168, qui put ramener le calme en Sicile. Deux témoignages oculaires de ces turbulences nous sont parvenus, celui d’Hugues Falcand, homme du Sud, partisan d’un point de vue d’historien, qui nous a laissé un récit détaillé de l’événement, et celui de Pierre de Blois, homme du Nord piqué au vif par l’affaire.
À propos du contenu et de l’histoire du manuscrit 26 de la cathédrale de Vic : un témoin inconnu des Chronica Muzarabica (chapitre 19) et du Provinciale Visigothicum
Authors: Varela Rodríguez Joel
Published: October 2023

Le manuscrit Vic, Arxiu i Biblioteca Episcopal, 26 (xi s.) transmet le chapitre 19 des Chronica Muzarabica (éd. Gil) et une liste des sièges épiscopaux wisigoths (généralement connus sous le nom de Provinciale Visigothicum) comme une sorte d’appendice à la troisième partie des Moralia in Iob de Grégoire le Grand. Ce texte des Moralia présente des caractéristiques de plusieurs traditions textuelles différentes, probablement parce que des manuscrits ibériques et français contenant des parties de diverses de l’œuvre de Grégoire ont été utilisés comme modèles. Dans cet article, j’analyse la position du fragment des Chronica Muzarabica et la liste des sièges épiscopaux dans leurs traditions textuelles respectives. Le fragment des Chronica Muzarabica est manifestement indépendant des autres fragments du chapitre 19, dont l’existence est bien connue (Visio Taionis) et dérive d’un modèle commun à un autre exemplaire inconnu à Tortosa, Arxiu Capitular, 30 (xii s.). D’autre part, la liste des sièges épiscopaux contient quelques indications qui permettent de penser que ce texte provient de Carthagène ou de ses environs, et certaines modifications qui y sont introduites répondent probablement aux intérêts politiques d’Oliba, évêque de Vic (1018-1046), sous les auspices duquel ce manuscrit a été composé.
Jung and James
Authors: Dadaian Anna
Published: October 2023

This paper draws parallels between William James’ thought and Carl Gustav Jung’s work in Psychological Types, showing that both provided epistemologies that strived to redefine the notion of scientific objectivity to incorporate the realm of psychological experience. Jung generally admired James’ pragmatism and his pluralistic vision. He shared James’ idea that philosophical (and, therefore, epistemological) positions were ultimately expressions of certain psychological attitudes, which meant that a psychological typology could be used to account for the “personal equations” of philosophers, scientists, and psychologists in particular. It will be shown that Jung borrowed from James the idea of a psychological typology as an epistemological method, which he believed would ensure a more complete understanding of scientific objectivity. Parallels will then be drawn between Jung’s notion of the “problem of opposites” and James’ concept of the “divided self,” both of which were resolved through religion. Crucially, for both Jung and James, expanding the borders of science to include psychology also meant incorporating religious experience. Finally, this paper argues that Jung’s epistemological project in Psychological Types effectively expanded on James’ pragmatism by synthesising various elements of James’s thought – pluralism, the personal equation, typology, and the divided self – into one epistemological framework. Jung’s work thus provides an important case study for the history of pragmatism.
Über Vulnerabilität und Solidarität
Authors: Reder Michael
Published: October 2023

Vulnerabilität und Solidarität sind in den vergangenen Jahren zu zwei Kernbegriffen der praktischen Philosophie geworden. Sie markieren nicht nur einen neuen thematischen Fokus, sondern auch eine Verschiebung theoretischer Grundannahmen, beispielsweise hinsichtlich des Verständnisses von Normativität oder dem Politischen. Innerhalb des Pragmatismus spielen beide Begriffe, bis auf Rortys Rekurs auf Solidarität, keine zentrale Rolle, obgleich die Grundintuitionen, die beiden Begriffen zugrunde liegen, eng mit dieser Strömung verbunden sind. Der Beitrag will vor dem Hintergrund dieser pragmatistischen Grundannahmen zentrale Argumentationsfiguren der Debatte über Vulnerabilität und Solidarität in den pragmatistischen Theorierahmen übersetzen, um Leerstellen und Probleme des Diskurses aufzudecken und zu diskutieren. Es zeigt sich, dass der pragmatistische Zugriff in verschiedener Hinsicht Potenzial für die Klärung der beiden Begriffe hat. Impulse liegen u.a. in der Klärung des relationalen Charakters des Sozialen, dem Erfahrungsbezug und der Verschränkung der normativen und politischen Dimension. Durch eine pragmatistische Re-Konzeptualisierung kann deshalb der Diskurs über Vulnerabilität und Solidarität geschärft und damit innerhalb der praktischen Philosophie gestärkt werden. Zugleich kann damit pragmatistische Forschung in aktuelle Debatten der praktischen Philosophie stärker eingebracht werden.
Evaluation of Helicopter Ship Deck Landing Control Laws in Piloted Simulations
Authors: Kalra Arti , Štrbac Alexander , Maibach Malte-Jörn
Published: October 2023

This paper describes the implementation and the evaluation of newly designed helicopter ship deck landing control modes in a piloted simulation study. The ship deck landing modes are embedded in a model-following controller architecture. The employed control design is a complete model-following
control system, which imposes the desired command model dynamics on the controlled helicopter. Different command types combined with various hold functions are implemented to make the task easier for the pilots. Three basic command modes and three advanced command modes, one without ship communication
and two with ship communication, are implemented. A piloted simulation study was performed in a simulator to evaluate and compare the implemented control modes within a complete maritime scenario design. The evaluation of control modes is based on the success of helicopter ship deck landings
which is assessed by a quantitative as well as a qualitative assessment. Simulation results demonstrate that the advanced command modes improved the task performance as well as reduced the pilot workload extensively in comparison to the basic command modes.
Acute Superficial and Deep Necrosis of Lower Limb following Femoral Arterial Cannulation in a Neonate Undergoing Arterial Switch Operation for Transposition of Great Arteries
Authors: Jayasankar Jessin P. , Vijayaraghavan Sundeep , Reddy Praveen B. , Kottayil Brijesh P. , Gopalkrishnan Rajesh M. , Neema Praveen Kumar
Published: October 2023

Arterial lines are routinely used for hemodynamic monitoring and blood sampling in the operating room and in cardiac surgery intensive care unit. The complications related to arterial line insertion are very low; the knowledge of the relevant artery anatomy, skills and the experience of the operator and selection of a right size cannula plays a vital role in reducing morbidity related to arterial line insertion. We describe extensive superficial and deep necrosis of lower limb following arterial cannula insertion in a preterm neonate undergoing arterial switch procedure and discuss measures to prevent such a complication.
Utility of Transesophageal Echocardiography During Orthotopic Liver Transplantation: A Narrative Review
Authors: Hansebout Christopher , Desai Tejal V. , Dhir Achal
Published: October 2023

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is the standard of care for patients suffering from end stage liver disease (ESLD). This is a high-risk procedure with the potential for hemorrhage, large shifts in preload and afterload, and release of vasoactive mediators that can have profound effects on hemodynamic equilibrium. In addition, patients with ESLD can have preexisting coronary artery disease, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, porto-pulomary hypertension and imbalanced coagulation. As cardiovascular involvement is invariable and patient are at an appreciable risk of intraoperative cardiac arrest, Trans esophageal echocardiography (TEE) is increasingly becoming a routinely utilized monitor during OLT in patients without contraindications to its use. A comprehensive TEE assessment performed by trained operators provides a wealth of information on baseline cardiac function, while a focused study specific for the ESLD patients can help in prompt diagnosis and treatment of critical events. Future studies utilizing TEE will eventually optimize examination safety, quality, permit patient risk stratification, provide intraoperative guidance, and allow for evaluation of graft vasculature.
Abnormally Low Regional Cerebral Oxygen Saturation after Induction of Anesthesia without Neurological Abnormality: A Case Report
Authors: Honda Jun , Tanaka Shiori , Yoshida Keisuke , Inoue Satoki
Published: October 2023

Measurement of regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in cardiac surgery is known to be useful in reducing postoperative neurological complications. We here present a case of a 71-year-old man in whom severe decrease in unilateral rSO2 was observed after induction of general anesthesia for percutaneous mitral valve clipping, although no neurological abnormalities were found. NIRS does not always predict postoperative neurological complications.
Complex Cyanotic Congenital Heart Disease and Cervical Spine Surgery: Ticking All the Right Boxes
Authors: Jaswal Sanjay , Narayan Vinitha , Gowda Punith , Mahajan Shalvi
Published: October 2023

Although complex congenital heart disease (CHD) patients usually present in childhood, it is not rare to see adults well past middle age. These patients undergo continuous pathophysiological changes in their heart and blood vessels, making anesthetic management more challenging if surgery is required. Herein, we report a case in which understanding the anatomy and pathophysiology helped optimally manage a patient with a double outlet right ventricle (DORV) who underwent plating and fixation for a hangman’s fracture in the prone position.
The ProtekDuo Cannula for Acute Right Ventricular Support in Thyrotoxicosis
Authors: Maybauer Marc O. , Brewer Joseph M.
Published: October 2023

A 25-year-old female was presented with acute right heart failure (aRHF) and cardiogenic shock secondary to thyrotoxicosis with concomitant acute respiratory failure. A ProtekDuo cannula was placed to provide temporary percutaneous right ventricular assistance and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in venopulmonary (V-P) configuration, which provided both decompression of the right ventricle (RV) and oxygenation. With treatment of the underlying thyrotoxicosis, the RV function improved and respiratory failure resolved. She was discharged home in good condition. This case details alternative ECMO management with ProtekDuo compared to the gold standard of venoarterial (V-A) ECMO.
Comparison of Success Rate of Abducted and Neutral Arm Position for Right Infraclavicular Subclavian Vein Cannulation Under Real-Time Ultrasound Guidance in Patients Undergoing Elective Neurosurgery Under General Anesthesia
Authors: Choudhary Nirmala , Banerjee Neerja , Singh Jyoti , Kumari Meena , Kaur Mohandeep
Published: October 2023

Background:

Classically subclavian vein catheterization is done in neutral arm position; recently, it has been done in different arm positions to compare success rate and catheter misplacement. There is a paucity of literature for comparing abducted and neutral arm position for right infraclavicular subclavian vein cannulation.

Aim:

Comparison of success rate of abducted and neutral arm position for right infraclavicular subclavian vein cannulation under real-time ultrasound guidance in patients undergoing elective neurosurgery under general anesthesia.

Design:

Randomized comparative study.

Materials and Methods:

After approval from Institutional Review Board and Ethical Committee, 100 patients of 18–70 years of age, of either sex, posted for elective neurosurgery under general anesthesia, requiring right subclavian vein cannulation were included in our study. They were randomly divided into two groups: abducted arm position (group 1-AG) and neutral arm position (group 2-NG) using sealed envelope technique.

Results:

First attempt success rate was higher in AG group compared to NG group (P value- 0.741). Times taken (seconds) for cannulation in NG and AG group, catheter misplacement and hematoma (P value- 0.37, P value- 0.37, P value- 1, respectively) were lesser in AG Group.

Conclusion:

For USG-guided infraclavicular subclavian vein cannulation, abducted arm position, and neutral arm position in terms of first attempt success rate, number of attempts and associated complications has comparable results; however, further studies with larger group of patients are required to assess the overall advantage of abducted arm position over neutral arm position.
Role of Magnesium Alone or in Combination with Diltiazem and/or Amiodarone in prevention of Atrial Fibrillation following Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Tempe Deepak K. , Maheshwari Ankit , Fatima Nirmeen , Khurana Priyanka , Geelani Muhammad A. , Minhas Harpreet S.
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

In this study the authors have tried to examine the role of magnesium alone or in combination with diltiazem and / or amiodarone in prevention of atrial fibrillation (AF) following off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Background:

AF after CABG is common and contributes to morbidity and mortality. Various pharmacological preventive measures including magnesium, amiodarone, diltiazem, and combination therapy among others have been tried to lower the incidence of AF. Most of the studies have been performed in patients undergoing conventional on-pump CABG. In this uncontrolled trial, efficacy of magnesium alone or in combination with amiodarone and / or diltiazem has been studied in patients undergoing off-pump CABG.

Methods:

One hundred and fifty patients undergoing off-pump CABG were divided into 3 groups, Group M (n=21) received intraoperative magnesium infusion at 30mg/ kg over 1 hour after midline sternotomy; Group MD (n=78) received magnesium infusion in similar manner with diltiazem infusion at 0.05 μg/kg/hr throughout the intraoperative period; Group AMD (n=51) received preoperative oral amiodarone at a dose of 200 mg three times a day for 3 days followed by 200 mg twice daily for another 3 days followed by 200 mg once daily till the day of surgery along with magnesium and diltiazem infusion as in other groups. AF lasting more than 10 min or requiring medical intervention was considered as AF.

Results:

The overall incidence of postoperative AF was 12.6% with 11.7% in group AMD, 19% in group M, and 11.5% in group MD, which was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

It is concluded that the use of amiodarone and/or diltiazem in addition to magnesium did not result in additional benefit of lowering the incidence of AF.
Ultrasound: A Novel Alternative Technique for Cervical Epidural Space Visualization—A Pilot Study
Authors: Asai Omshubham G. , Gondode Prakash , Raipure Amrusha , Saxena Divish , Tiwari Vivek
Published: October 2023

Background:

Neuraxial ultrasound (US), a newer modality, can be used for neuraxial imaging, helping in visualizing and aiding in epidural space catheterization. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the US for cervical epidural access and to determine the failure rate and complication associated with this technique.

Methods:

A prospective single-arm pilot study was conducted on 21 participants. The neuraxial US image quality assessment by Ultrasound Visibility Score (UVS), epidural space depth measurement by US and by conventional loss of resistance (LOR) technique, and post-procedure epidural catheter confirmation by real-time US were the study parameters. Any procedural complications or failure rate were recorded. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, paired-samples t-test, and Chi-square test were used for the statistical comparison.

Results:

The pre-procedural UVS by the transverse interlaminar view (x/21) was 2.81 ± 1.94 and by the oblique paramedian sagittal view was 16.66 ± 2.39 with UVS being best in the paramedian oblique sagittal view (P- value < 0.05). The comparison of depth of the epidural space identified by USG and that by the LOR technique was statistically insignificant (P = 0.83). The average puncture attempts were 1.1 ± 0.3. Post-procedure US epidural catheter confirmation score (x/3) was 1.44 ± 0.44 with either epidural space expansion or microbubbles seen or both.

Conclusion:

The pilot study has successfully demonstrated the implication of US for visualizing and aiding in epidural space catheterization. Also, the failure rate and procedural complications were drastically minimized with the help of US as compared to the traditional blind technique.
Anesthesia for Cesarean Delivery in a Patient with Congenitally Corrected Transposition of the Great Arteries: A Case Report
Authors: Naoum Emily E. , Ortoleva Jamel P. , Militana Ryan M. , Soffer Marti D. , Yeh Doreen DeFaria
Published: October 2023

Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (CCTGA) is a rare form of congenital heart disease often associated with other cardiac defects. The adaptations and physiologic changes in pregnancy can present maternal challenges and complications; multidisciplinary care allows for the safest management of pregnancy and delivery in these patients. We present a case of the anesthetic management of cesarean delivery in a woman with CCTGA with her pregnancy complicated by recurrent volume overload, pulmonary hypertension, and dysrhythmias.
Analgesic efficacy of the inferior alveolar nerve block for maxillofacial cancer surgery under general anaesthesia – A randomised controlled study
Authors: Shetmahajan Madhavi , Kamalakar Maya , Narkhede Amit , Bakshi Sumitra
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims:

Mandibular resection during maxillofacial cancer surgery evokes a strong sympathetic response requiring high doses of opioids. We studied the effect of the inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) for analgesia in maxillofacial cancer surgeries.

Methods:

This randomised controlled study was conducted over five months in a tertiary care cancer hospital following Institutional Ethics approval and trial registration. Fifty consenting adult patients belonging to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I and II requiring maxillofacial cancer surgery with unilateral mandibular resection were recruited. Twenty-five patients in the study arm received ipsilateral IANB; a mock injection was given to the control group. Fentanyl requirement and haemodynamic parameters during primary tumour excision were the primary and secondary endpoints. Student’s t-test was applied to compare primary and secondary endpoints.

Results:

Forty-nine patients completed the study. Both arms were comparable with respect to age, gender distribution, ASA physical status and baseline heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP). The mean (standard deviation) intravenous fentanyl requirement during primary tumour excision in the IANB arm was 70(32) µg, significantly lower than 183(48) µg in the control arm, P < 0.001. The mean maximum HR during primary tumour excision was 82 and 99 per minute in the IANB and control arms, respectively (P < 0.001) whereas the maximum mean BP was 88 and 101 mm Hg, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

IANB significantly reduced intraoperative fentanyl requirement and caused fewer haemodynamic changes during maxillofacial cancer surgery requiring unilateral mandibular excision.
Violence against healthcare workers in the emergency departments of Al-Madinah hospitals, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Sayaghi Khaled M.
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND:

Workplace violence (WPV) directed against healthcare workers (HCWs) in healthcare facilities has always been neglected. These occupational hazards have been investigated in recent times and received greater attention from decision-makers. This study aimed to assess the WPV committed against HCWs in the emergency departments (EDs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

All the emergency department (ED) healthcare workers (HCW) in the hospitals of Al-Madinah Province, Saudi Arabia, were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study by completing an online questionnaire during May 15 to August 15, 2020. Information sought included characteristics of the participant and workplace, violence, the participants’ responses and emotions, the consequences of the WPV incident, and the level of satisfaction with the management of the WPV incident. Data was analyzed using SPSS; Chi-square test was used to assess the association between WPV and various participant and workplace characteristics. Binary logistic regression analysis performed to identify independent predictors of work place violence.

RESULTS:

A total of 250 HCW filled the questionnaire. One-third of the participants were victims of at least one violent event, mostly nonphysical. The perpetrators were primarily the patient’s companions, and a heavy workload/understaffing or an overcrowded environment was the main cause of the violence. The most frequent reaction was to call the hospital security. The emotions the participants experienced were disappointment, low self-esteem, and sadness. Most victims did not report the WPV incident because they believed that reporting was useless, insignificant, or they were fearful of adverse consequences.

CONCLUSION:

The rate of violence in EDs in Al-Madinah hospitals was lower than expected, and only 33.3% of HCWs had experienced a violent incident in the last year. However, there is a substantial margin for interventions to improve the situation and protect the HCWs in the EDs.
Prevalence of long-lasting loss of smell and taste after coronavirus disease 2019 infection in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Allhaiby Nada M. , Allihybi Sultan M. , Almhmadi Amir H. , Alkot Mohammad M.
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND:

People with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) who experience symptoms for more than 35 weeks are said to have long COVID. Anosmia can occur on its own or in combination with other COVID-19 symptoms. Anosmia may be a significant differential presentation for the suspicion and diagnosis of COVID-19 in patients with asymptomatic-to-mild COVID-19 disease and may disappear in 3 weeks. This study sought to determine the prevalence of persistent loss of taste and smell following COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted among Saudi citizens who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 for more than 2 weeks and had experienced a loss of taste and smell. Data was collected using a questionnaire having questions about demographics, long-lasting loss of taste and smell, whether this related to COVID-19 infection, and whether respondents had received the COVID-19 vaccine. SPSS was used for data analysis; statistical significance was determined using Chi-square test.

RESULTS:

A total of 383 Saudis who had a history of COVID-19 participated in the study. About 43.3% study participants had experienced persistent loss of taste and smell after COVID-19 infection. A significant association was found between loss of smell and the region, Northern region having highest proportion of study participants who had loss of smell and Western region having the lowest prevalence (34%).

CONCLUSION:

There were permanent changes in the sense of taste or smell in 34.3% of participants. This might add to the growing weight of long COVID.
Tight inclusions of $C^*$-dynamical systems
Authors: Hartman Yair , Kalantar Mehrdad
Published: October 2023

We study a notion of tight inclusions of

C^*

- and

W^*

-dynamical systems, which is meant to capture a tension between topological and measurable rigidity of boundary actions. An important case of such inclusions is

C(X)\subset L^\infty(X, \nu)

for measurable boundaries with unique stationary compact models. We discuss the implications of this phenomenon in the description of Zimmer amenable intermediate factors. Furthermore, we prove applications in the problem of maximal injectivity of von Neumann algebras.
Size Classification and Characteristics of Ceramic Shot for Peening
Authors:   Surface Enhancement Committee
Published: October 2023

This specification covers characteristics for chemistry, microstructure, density, hardness, size, shape, and appearance of zirconium oxide-based ceramic shot, suitable for peening surfaces of parts by impingement.
Simulation of DNA damage using the “molecularDNA” example application of Geant4-DNA
Authors:   University of Belgrade, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia,Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Serbia, Dordevic Milos , Chatzipapas Konstantinos ,   University of Bordeaux, CNRS, France, Hoang Tran Ngoc ,   University of Bordeaux, CNRS, France, Sakata Dousatsu ,   Osaka University, Division of Health Sciences, Japan, Petrovic Ivan ,   University of Belgrade, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia,Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Serbia, Ristic-Fira Aleksandra ,   University of Belgrade, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia,Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Serbia, Zein Sara ,   University of Bordeaux, CNRS, France, Brown Jeremy M.C. ,   Swinburne University of Technology, Optical Sciences Centre, Australia, Kyriakou Ioanna ,   University of Ioannina, Medical Physics Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Greece, Emfietzoglou Dimitris ,   University of Ioannina, Medical Physics Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Greece, Guatelli Susanna ,   University of Wollongong, Centre for Medical Radiation Physics, Australia, Incerti Sebastien ,   University of Bordeaux, CNRS, France
Published: October 2023

The scientific community has a large interest in the studies of DNA damage and response after exposure to ionizing radiation. Several in-silico methods have been proposed so far to model and study the mechanisms of DNA damage using Monte Carlo simulations. The “molecularDNA” example is one of the most recent applications to simulate the irradiation of human cancer cells and bacteria using Geant4-DNA. This example enables the simulation of the physical, physico-chemical and chemical stages of liquid water irradiation, including radiolytic processes following the particle irradiation of the pre-defined human cell geometries and it can be used to calculate the early direct and non-direct DNA damage such as single (SSB) and double strand breaks (DSB) as well as DNA fragment distribution. The application is user friendly and can be used following simple macro commands. The results of the Monte Carlo simulation are compared to experimental data of DSB yields, as well as with previously published simulation data.
Development of Nanomaterials for Sustainable Food Packaging Applications
Authors:   University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Tehnology, Department od Materials Engineering, Serbia, Rackov Sanja , Vraneš Milan ,   University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Sciences, Serbia, Erceg Tamara ,   University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Tehnology, Department od Materials Engineering, Serbia, Pilić Branka ,   University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Tehnology, Department od Materials Engineering, Serbia
Published: October 2023

The use of biodegradable polymers from renewable resources in polymer manufacturing, food packaging and for medical application is becoming a favorable option over petroleum-based plastics. Among all biopolymers, biopolyesters poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and polyhidroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are considered as the most commercially promising bioplastics. PLA is a biopolyester produced by polymerization of D-, L- lactic acids originating through fermentation of simple sugars from agricultural sources (corn, potato, sugar cane, sugar beet, etc.). PHA is a generic designation for biopolyesters produced by controlled microbial fermentation in the presence of an abundant source of sugars or lipids. The focus of this study was to prepare fully biodegradable flexible nanomaterials using PLA and poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) polymer blend solution by means of electrospinning technique. Since PHB possesses low resistance to thermal degradation with melting temperatures close to degradation and narrowing the processing window, the electrospinning technique reduces energy consumption and avoids thermal degradation during processing. A complete morphological, structural and thermal characterization of the developed materials was conducted at the same time.
Comparison of the luminescence properties of phosphate-tungsten bronze and cerium doped phosphate-tungsten bronze
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Science, Serbia, Maksimović Tijana V. , Joksović Ljubinka G. ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Science, Serbia, Mara Dimitrije ,   University of Belgrade, Institute of General and Physical Chemistry, Sebia, Van Deun Rik ,   KU Leuven, Molecular Imaging and Photonics, Department of Chemistry, Belgium, Nedić Zoran P. ,   Ghent University, L3  -Luminescent Lanthanide Lab, Department of Chemistry, Belgium, Simović-Pavlović Marina ,   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mining and Geology, Serbia, Pagnacco Maja C. ,   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Serbia
Published: October 2023

Phosphate-tungsten bronzes (PWBs) constantly attract a lot of attention owing to their interesting chemical, mechanical, and optical properties. Furthermore, tungsten bronzes as inert inorganic solids, exhibit interesting and useful electronic properties when rare-earth ions are incorporated into their structure. Cerium doped phosphate-tungsten bronze (Ce-PWB) is obtained in the process of phase transformations of CePW12O40×6H2O (Ce-PWA) salt. The brown crystals of Ce-PWB are formed after heating of Ce-PWA in a furnace, in a temperature range from room temperature to 650 °C. In the present paper the luminescence properties of undoped PWB and Ce-PWB are analyzed and compared. Regarding the characterized luminescence properties of PWB and Ce-PWB, only PWB matrix showed luminescence, while dopant Ce3+ had no significant influence on the change of the emission spectra with characteristic spectra for this ion. The obtained CIE chromaticity diagrams showed that both samples emit in the deep blue region, suggesting their possible use as a blue emitting source for white light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
„In vitro“ biological effects of clonal red wines
Authors:   University of Belgrade, Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, “Vinča” Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, Đorđević N. , Keta O. ,   University of Belgrade, Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, “Vinča” Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, Petković V. ,   University of Belgrade, Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, “Vinča” Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, Todorović Vukotić N. ,   University of Belgrade, Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, “Vinča” Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, Stanković D. ,   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Serbia, Tešević V. ,   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Serbia, Pajović S. B. ,   University of Belgrade, Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, “Vinča” Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to determine the phenolic compound content, in vitro antioxidative potential, and cytotoxic effects of four red wine samples: a commercial (V) and three clonal wines (V1, V2, and V3). LC/MS-MS, cyclic voltammetry, and MTT assay techniques were employed for this purpose. Results revealed that all wines were rich in phenolic compounds. Clonal wines outperformed the commercial ones in most phenolic compounds (except myricetin). Notably, V2 and V3 showed the highest levels of gallic acid, catechin, and epicatechin. Among them, V3 exhibited superior antioxidative activity. The MTT assay demonstrated stronger cytotoxic effects of the wine samples on pancreas (Bx-PC3) and colon (HT29) carcinoma cells (47% to 16% and 27% to 7% compared to control, respectively) than on the normal lung fibroblasts (MRC-5) cell line (106% to 77%). It can be concluded that HT29 cells were more sensitive than Bx-PC3 cells. Finally, both clonal and commercial wines serve as valuable sources of polyphenolic compounds, which could have a significant role in preventing cancer and diseases related to oxidative stress.
A protocol for thoracic radiation therapy in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Serbia, Milosavljević Neda , Živković Radojević Marija ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Serbia, Stojanović Darko ,   University Clinical Centre Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia, Janković Katarina ,   University Clinical Centre Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia, Miladinović Tatjana B. ,   University of Kragujevac, Institute for Information Technologies, Serbia
Published: October 2023

Prolonged lifespan and improved diagnostic and treatment modalities have led to significant progress in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease and cancer. A substantial number of patients with malignancies also have cardiovascular disease at the time of cancer treatment. Per literature, over one million implantable cardiac devices are inserted annually. Ionizing radiation, especially in the thoracic area is related to cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) damage and malfunction. Besides that, CIED can interfere with radiotherapy planning and delivery, as well as patient motivation to undergo radiotherapy treatment. Management of oncology patients, undergoing radiotherapy, for any indication, with a CIED is essential, and safe radiotherapy practice requires minimizing the risk to patients as much as possible, from pretherapy planning to posttherapy follow-up. A collaborative multidisciplinary approach, tailor-made for every single radiotherapy center is imperative to provide effective and safe radiotherapy for these patients. A collaboration of radiation oncologists, medical physicists and cardiologists from the University Clinical Center Kragujevac has created a local protocol for radiotherapy treatment and follow-up for patients receiving radiotherapy at the Center for Radiation Oncology University C linical Center Kragujevac, which provides safe and efficient delivery of an adequate radiotherapy dose to target volumes with appropriate cardiac monitoring.