bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A retrospective epidemiological analysis of maxillofacial fractures at a tertiary referral hospital in istanbul: a seven-year study of 1,757 patients
Authors: Asya Orhan , Gündoğdu Yavuz , İncaz Sefa , Kavak Ömer Tarık , Mammadli Javahir , Özcan Sefa , Çavlan Celal Emre , Yumuşakhuylu Ali Cemal
Published: November 2024

Background

The aim of the study was to evaluate the etiology, incidence, demographics, and characteristics of maxillofacial fractures treated at a university hospital over a seven-year period.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 1,757 patients with maxillofacial fractures who were referred to our department between May 2012 and March 2019. The patients’ demographic and clinical characteristics were noted, as well as the fracture type, location, and etiology. The treatment modalities were also analyzed.

Results

A total of 2,173 maxillofacial fractures were seen in 1,757 patients. The male to female ratio was 3.9:1, and the mean patient age was 31.89 ± 17.70 years (range: 0–95 years). Maxillofacial injuries were most prevalent in the 19–28 years age group (23.9% of cases), with a general increase in injuries observed between 2013 and 2018 across all age groups. The most common etiological factor was assault (29.1%), followed by falls (26%). In male patients, assault was reported as the main cause, while in female patients, falls were identified as the main cause. The nasal bone was the most common site of fracture, followed by the maxilla. The average time from admission to surgery was 2.8 days, with local anesthesia being the most frequent surgical intervention. The average time from admission to surgery was 2.8 ± 2.5 days (range: 0–20 days), with surgeries performed under local anesthesia being more frequent than those carried out under general anesthesia. Among the surgical interventions, the most common general anesthesia technique for fracture reduction was open reduction and internal fixation with plates and screws. Plate exposure, wound-site infection, and temporomandibular joint ankylosis were the major complications encountered in the study population.

Conclusion

The study reveals significant variability in maxillofacial fractures based on gender, age, and etiology. Assault emerged as the leading cause of these fractures, followed by falls and road traffic accidents. Men were affected by maxillofacial trauma four times more often than women, with the highest incidence occurring in the 19–28 years age group. Nasal fractures were the most frequently observed (78.7%), while condylar-subcondylar process fractures were the most common type of mandibular fracture. Given these findings, a targeted, lifelong prevention strategy focused on high-risk groups could significantly reduce the burden of maxillofacial trauma.
Classification of salivary gland biopsies in Sjögren’s syndrome by a convolutional neural network using an auto-machine learning platform
Authors: Álvarez Troncoso Jorge , Ruiz-Bravo Elena , Soto Abánades Clara , Dumusc Alexandre , López-Janeiro Álvaro , Hügle Thomas
Published: November 2024

Background

The histopathological analysis of minor salivary gland biopsies, particularly through the quantification of the Focus Score (FS), is pivotal in the diagnostic workflow for Sjögren's Syndrome (SS). AI-based image recognition using deep learning models has demonstrated potential in enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency in preclinical research.

Objectives

The primary aim of this investigation was to utilize an auto-machine learning (autoML) platform for the automated segmentation and quantification of FS on histopathological slides, aiming to augment diagnostic precision and speed in SS.

Methods

A cohort comprising 86 patients with sicca syndrome (37 diagnosed with SS based on the 2016 ACR/EULAR Classification Criteria and 49 non-SS) was selected for an in-depth histological examination. A repository of 172 slides (two per patient) was assembled, encompassing 74 slides meeting the classificatory thresholds for SS (FS ≥ 1, indicative of lymphocytic infiltration) and 98 slides showcasing normal salivary gland histology. The autoML platform utilized (Giotto, L2F, Lausanne Switzerland) employed a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architecture (ResNet-152) for the training and validation phases, using a dataset of 172 slides.

Results

The developed model exhibited a reliability score of 0.88, proficiently distinguishing SS cases, with a sensitivity of 89.47% (95% CI: 66.86% to 98.70%) and a specificity of 88.24% (95% CI: 63.56% to 98.54%). The model found histological slides of suboptimal quality (e.g., those compromised during fixation or staining processes) to be the most challenging for accurate classification.

Conclusion

AutoML platforms offer a rapid and flexible approach to developing machine learning models, even with smaller datasets, as demonstrated in this study for SS. These platforms hold significant potential for enhancing diagnostic precision and efficiency in both clinical and research settings. Multicentric studies with larger patient cohorts are essential for thorough evaluation and validation of this innovative diagnostic approach.
Left ventricular perforation by Impella 5.5 during surgery for postinfarction ventricular septal rupture
Authors: Ito Hisato , Bessho Saki , Shomura Yu , Moriwaki Keishi , dohi Kaoru , Takao Motoshi
Published: November 2024

Background

The perioperative use of the Impella 5.5 has been increasing recently; however, the left ventricular perforation by this device during surgery has not been reported to date.

Case presentation

Postinfarction ventricular septal rupture in a 75-year-old man was successfully repaired with support of a single Impella 5.5 device used for consecutive 28 days perioperatively. The patient underwent surgery after 16 days of Impella support. During surgery, the Impella was left in place expecting its use for left ventricular unloading after the operation. After aortic cross-clamp, when the apex was carefully lifted, the tip of the Impella almost protruded from the posterior wall, and could be seen through the epicardium. The aorta was unclamped briefly, the Impella was pulled out several centimeters, and the aorta was cross-clamped again. The ventricular septal rupture was repaired by the double-layer patch technique via the right ventricle. Immediately before the chest closure, the free wall of the LV ruptured and blood rapidly flowed out. It was where the Impella almost protruded during cardiac arrest, and was repaired with a pledgeted monofilament mattress suture.

Conclusions

A single device can be used throughout perioperative periods; however, if used during surgery, possible risk of left ventricular perforation should be well recognized since the device has no soft pigtail part at its end, and its stiff tip can directly contact the decompressed, flaccid ventricular wall during cardiac arrest.
Data-driven multivariate time series prediction of in-vehicle equipment failure rates
Authors: Guo Yongfei , Chen Yonggang , Wang Haiyong , Liu Yang
Published: November 2024

Effectively predicting the failure rate of train-controlled on-board equipment is of great significance for rationally allocating equipment spares, drawing up maintenance plans, and reducing the occurrence of failures. In order to tackle the problem of the intricate attributes and limited predictive precision of the sample data pertaining to the failure rate of on-board equipment, in this paper, a multivariate time series prediction model for the failure rate of train-controlled on-board equipment is based on the combination of multivariate variational modal decomposition (MVMD) graph neural network (GNN) and transformer. First, the original failure rate time series, air temperature, humidity and sand and dust time series are modally decomposed using MVMD, and the intrinsic modal functions (IMFs) of each series are obtained; then, the dynamic graph of the GNN network is defined according to the IMFs, and Transformer’s self-attention mechanism is utilised to capture the dynamic graph’s temporal and spatial dependencies. Finally, the failure rate is output through the feed-forward neural network prediction value. Experiments using the historical fault data of CTCS3-300T train-controlled on-board equipment are carried out to confirm the efficacy of the suggested method, and it is contrasted with other conventional machine learning techniques. The outcomes of the experiment show that compared with other train-controlled on-board equipment failure prediction models, the proposed method has a very good superiority, as evidenced by its mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.0489 and root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.0510, which is of certain reference value for equipment operation and maintenance.
Management of critically ill patients in austere environments: good clinical practice by the Italian Society of Anesthesia, Analgesia, Resuscitation and Intensive Care (SIAARTI)
Authors: Bixio Mattia , Carenzo Luca , Accurso Giuseppe , Balagna Roberto , Bazurro Simone , Chiarini Giovanni , Cortegiani Andrea , Faraldi Loredana , Fontana Costantino , Giannarzia Emilio , Giarratano Antonino , Molineris Enrico , Raineri Santi Maurizio , Marin Paolo
Published: November 2024

The Italian Society of Anesthesia, Analgesia, Resuscitation and Intensive Care (SIAARTI) has developed a good clinical practice to address the challenges of treating critically ill patients in resource-limited austere environments, exacerbated by recent pandemics, natural disasters, and conflicts. The methodological approach was based on a literature review and a modified Delphi method, which involved blind voting and consensus evaluation using a Likert scale. This process was conducted over two rounds of online voting. The document covers six critical topics: the overall impact of austere conditions on critical care, airway management, analgesia, bleeding control, vascular access, and medical devices and equipment. In these settings, it is vital to apply basic care techniques flexibly, focusing on immediate bleeding control, airway management, and hypothermia treatment to reduce mortality. For airway management, rapid sequence intubation with ketamine for sedation and muscle relaxation is suggested. Effective pain management involves a multimodal approach, including patient-controlled analgesia by quickly acting safe drugs, with an emphasis on ethical palliative care when other options are unavailable. Regarding hemorrhage, military-derived protocols like Tactical Combat Casualty Care significantly reduced mortality and influenced the development of civilian bleeding control devices. Establishing venous access is crucial, with intraosseous access as a swift option and central venous access for complex cases, ensuring aseptic conditions. Lastly, selecting medical equipment that matches the specific logistical and medical needs is essential, maintaining monitoring standards and considering advanced diagnostic tools like point-of-care ultrasounds. Finally, effective communication tools for coordination and telemedicine are also vital.
Quantum steering ellipsoids and quantum obesity in critical systems
Authors: Rosario Pedro , Santos Alan C.
Published: November 2024

Quantum obesity (QO) is a novel function introduced to quantify quantum correlations that go beyond traditional measures like entanglement, while also functioning as an entanglement witness. One of the key strengths of QO lies in its analyticity for arbitrary states of bipartite systems, making it a more accessible and versatile tool compared to other measures of quantum correlations, such as quantum discord. In this work, we highlight the importance of QO as a fundamental quantity for identifying signatures of quantum phase transitions, which are critical changes in the ground state of quantum systems driven by quantum fluctuations. We introduce a mechanism based on local filtering operations designed to enhance the critical behavior of QO near phase transition points, providing a deeper understanding of these phenomena. Furthermore, we present a theorem that characterizes how QO transforms under local quantum operations and classical communications (LOCC), which broadens its applicability to a wider range of quantum systems. This opens new avenues for exploring quantum criticality and other novel quantum phenomena by leveraging the analytically computable, pairwise QO, thus offering both theoretical insights and practical applications in quantum information science.
Clinical and Radiological Features of Atypical Adrenal Masses—A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Balderrama-Brondani Vania , Al-Ward Ruaa , Kiseljak-Vassiliades Katja , Fishbein Lauren , Dawes Danielle , Hamidi Oksana , Pishdad Reza , Perdomo Rodriguez Juan Pablo , Sukkari Mohamad Anas , Grajo Joseph R , Ghayee Hans Kumar , Bedrose Sara , Bassett Roland L , Hamrahian Amir H , Habra Mouhammed Amir
Published: November 2024

Context

The natural history and malignant potential of cases classified as atypical adrenal masses (AAMs) are unknown.

Objective

To describe the radiological characteristics and clinical outcomes of AAMs.

Design and Participants

A multicenter retrospective study. Patients ≥18 years old with AAMs [diameter of 10-39 mm on first imaging study and pre-contrast attenuation of >10 Hounsfield units (HU) on computed tomography] were studied. We excluded adrenal metastasis, pheochromocytoma, sarcoma, lymphoma, infiltrative lesions, and adrenal hemorrhage, as well as patients with genetic predisposition to adrenal neoplasms. Data are presented as percentages and median values with interquartile ranges (IQRs).

Results

We included 217 patients with 224 adrenal masses (61.3% women); the median age was 58 years (IQR 49-65 years). The median size was 20.5 mm (IQR 15-27 mm), with a median precontrast attenuation of 23.5 HU (IQR 17-30 HU). The median AAM growth rate was 0.3 mm/year (IQR 0-1.8 mm/year). Seventy-one masses (31.7%) underwent pathological evaluation. Adrenal adenoma (n = 38; 17%) and adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) (n = 25; 11.2%) were the 2 most common diagnoses. For the adenomas, the growth rate was 0.3 mm/year (IQR 0-2.3 mm/year) and for ACCs, the growth rate was 12.9 mm/year (IQR 3.5-22 mm/year). The absolute contrast washout was >60% in 5 out of 7 (71.4%) ACC cases. The best growth rate cutoff for predicting malignancy was 2.68 mm/year (area under the curve 0.939; sensitivity 87.5%, specificity 88.8%).

Conclusion

AAMs carry significant malignant potential, and long-term follow-up is warranted when surgery is not pursued. Contrast washout is not reliable in predicting malignant potential of AAMs.
Lgr5
+ intestinal stem cells are required for organoid survival after genotoxic injury
Authors: Lee Joseph , Gleizes Antoine , Janto Nicolas V. , Appell Lito L. , Sun Siyang , Takaesu Felipe , Webster Sarah F. , Hailstock Taylor , Barker Nick , Gracz Adam D.
Published: November 2024

Progenitors and mature cells can maintain the intestinal epithelium by dedifferentiation and facultative intestinal stem cell (fISC) function when active ISCs (aISCs) are lost to damage. Here, we modeled fISC activation in mouse intestinal organoids with doxorubicin (DXR) treatment, a chemotherapeutic known to ablate Lgr5+ aISCs in vivo. Similar fISC gene activation was observed between organoids treated with low versus high DXR, despite significantly decreased survival at the higher dose. aISCs exhibited dose-dependent loss after DXR treatment but survived at doses compatible with organoid survival. We ablated residual aISCs after DXR treatment using a Lgr52A-DTR allele and observed that aISC survival of the initial genotoxic insult is required for organoid survival following DXR treatment. These results suggest that although typical fISC genes are activated by DXR-induced injury in organoids, functional stemness remains dependent on the aISC pool. Finally, we show that human intestinal organoids require higher doses of DXR to induce loss of survival and downregulation of LGR5. Our data establish a reproducible model of DXR-induced injury in intestinal organoids and reveal differences in in vitro responses to an established in vivo damage modality.
Export-Led Industrial Policy for Developing Countries: Is There a Way to Pick Winners?
Authors: Reed Tristan
Published: November 2024

Industrial policy prioritizes growth in specific sectors. Yet there is little agreement about how to target sectors in practice, and many argue that governments cannot pick winners. This essay observes that governments can and do identify tradable sectors where public inputs accelerate growth and generate economic benefits. These strategic sectors are: (1) those that are relatively more productive, and (2) those that are relatively less productive but require technology like the country’s existing technology and have rapidly growing markets and limited international competition. Since developing countries are productive in fewer sectors and have less technology, targeting can be more valuable for them. Export promotion agencies are institutions that have demonstrated effectiveness in coordinating public inputs to grow these sectors. Compared to protectionism, this alternative approach to ‘industrial policy’ is cheaper, less susceptible to capture by unproductive firms, and permissible under the rules of international trade agreements. Many countries’ development strategies adopt this approach.
Case Report: Endovascular approach with kissing stent technique in aortoiliac occlusive disease (Leriche syndrome) patient
Authors: Dakota Iwan , Taofan Taofan , Indriani Suci , Afandy Jonathan Edbert , Al Jaidi Yislam , Adiarto Suko , Sukmawan Renan
Published: November 2024

Background Aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD) or Leriche syndrome, is a form of peripheral arterial disease involving the infrarenal aorta and iliac arteries. The presentation of AIOD ranges from asymptomatic cases to limb-threatening emergencies. Advances and innovations in endovascular devices have replaced traditional surgical interventions for the management of AIOD. Here we report a case of a 52-year-old man presenting with AIOD managed by endovascular approach using kissing stent technique. Case presentation A 52-year-old man, with history of chronic coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, long-standing hypertension, and a significant history of smoking, was admitted to our hospital with symptoms of long-standing bilateral claudication which recently progressed to rest pain. A history of AIOD was previously established. AIOD (TASC II Type D) diagnosis was made by lower extremity duplex ultrasound and CT angiography. The patient underwent urgent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty with kissing stent technique. The patient was discharged 4 days after the procedure without any significant complaints, received best medical therapy. Conclusion Endovascular interventions present excellent alternatives to surgical techniques in the treatment of complex AIOD. Herein we presented an endovascular treatment of AIOD utilizing the kissing stent technique which showed satisfactory outcomes.
Physical activity in the treatment-resistant depression and non-remitted depression: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Etxaniz-Oses José , Iriarte-Yoller Nagore , Tous-Espelosin Mikel , Maldonado-Martin Sara
Published: November 2024

Background The objective of this systematic review was to analyze the effects of physical activity (PA) intervention as an adjuvant strategy to pharmacological treatment in people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and non-remitted depression (NRD). Methods A search strategy was realized from five databases: PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database and Oxford’s Evidence Levels were used to classify the quality appraisal. Results Of the 10777 records, 11 randomized controlled studies attained the inclusion criteria. The more significant outcome for this analysis was the improvement of depression by PA or exercise in TRD and NRD. According to the FITT (Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type) principle, there was some variability in the PA intervention, and except for one article, they all were classified as excellent in terms of quality description. Conclusions This review highlights the potential of PA intervention as an adjuvant program to improve different traits of TRD and NRD. The remission of depression seems to be higher after PA intervention, showing improvements in quality of life, sleep quality, executive function, and vitality.
Using the R Package, nsink, to assess landscape N removal in coastal catchments
Authors: Kellogg Dorothy Q , Hollister Jeffrey W. , Arnold Chester L. , Gold Arthur J. , Wilson Emily H. , Chadwick Cary B. , Dickson David W. , Lei-Parent Qian , Forshay Kenneth J.
Published: November 2024

Background Excess nitrogen (N) loading to coastal ecosystems impairs estuarine water quality. Land management decisions made within estuarine watersheds have a direct impact on downstream N delivery. Natural features within watersheds can act as landscape sinks for N, such as wetlands, streams and ponds that transform dissolved N into gaseous N, effectively removing it from the aquatic system. Identifying and evaluating these landscape sinks and their spatial relationship to N sources can help managers understand the effects of alternative decisions on downstream resources. Methods The N-Sink approach uses widely available GIS data to identify landscape sinks within HUC-12 (or larger) catchments, estimate their N removal potential and map the effect of those sinks on N movement through the catchment. Static maps are produced to visualize N removal efficiency, transport and delivery, the latter in the form of an index. The R package nsink was developed to facilitate data acquisition, processing and visualization. Results nsink creates static maps for a specific HUC-12, or users can visit the University of Connecticut website to explore previously mapped areas. Users can investigate specific flowpaths interactively by clicking on any location within the catchment. A flowpath is generated with a table describing N removal along each segment. We describe the motivation behind developing nsink, discuss implementation in R, and present two use case examples. nsink is available from https://github.com/USEPA/nsink. Conclusions N-Sink is a decision support tool created for local decision-makers and NGOs to facilitate better understanding of the relationship between land use and downstream N delivery. Local decision-makers that have prioritized N mitigation in their long-term planning can use nsink to better understand the potential impact of proposed development projects, zoning variances, and land acquisition or restoration. nsink also allows resource economists to investigate the tradeoffs among different, often costly, N reduction strategies.
Yoga-based lifestyle intervention for antenatal depression (YOGA-D): study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shidhaye Rahul , Bangal Vidyadhar , Bhargav Hemant , Thanage Chitra , Gore Suryabhan , Talole Shamal , Shinde Kalyani , Palande Swapnali , Thete Unnati , Shelke Sonali , Gholap Geeta , Nisal Suchita , Gargade Soni , Tilekar Swanand , Behere Nilam , Game Kalpesh , Murhar Vaibhav , Kunkulol Rahul , Telles Shirley
Published: November 2024

Background Depression during pregnancy is associated with pre-term labor, low birthweight, post-partum depression and adverse child outcomes. There are concerns about the safety of anti-depressant medications during pregnancy. Many pregnant women with antenatal depression are neither aware about their depression nor do they have access to non-pharmacological interventions for depression. Evidence suggests that pre-natal yoga can improve antenatal depression. Yoga is native to the Indian culture and women can practice yoga as a ‘self-care’ intervention with minimal training. There is no study till date on the efficacy of yoga on antenatal depression in pregnant women in a low resource (rural) setting in India. This pilot randomized controlled trial aims to study the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a YOGA -based lifestyle intervention for Antenatal D epression (YOGA-D) in Maharashtra, India. Methods We will undertake a single-blind individual randomized parallel group-controlled pilot trial with 1:1 allocation ratio. Adult women with 12–26 weeks of pregnancy, without any obstetric or medical complications will be randomly allocated to either the active intervention group (Yoga-Sanskar (YS)) or the Enhanced Usual Care (EUC) group. Trained yoga instructors will teach a pre-defined yoga sequence to the participants in the YS arm. In the EUC arm, participants will receive a single session of health education. We will assess trial feasibility using the recruitment, retention, and study completion rates. The primary outcome of depression will be measured using the translated Marathi version of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Assessments will be at the baseline, three-months post-randomization, and post-delivery. Discussion This study will help us to understand the barriers in implementation of a yoga-based intervention for antenatal depression in a low-resource/rural setting in Maharashtra, India. Based on the learnings of this pilot trial, we plan to undertake an explanatory randomized controlled trial in the next few months. Registration CTRI (CTRI/2024/05/067176; 10/05/2024).
How to write an essay on social studies at the Olympiad: preparing for the Unified State Exam
Authors: Titova Elena
Published: November 2024

The textbook is intended for preparation for tasks of the Olympiad level — writing an essay on one of the sections of social studies: "Man and Society" (philosophy), "Economic life", "Social sphere", "Political sphere", "Legal regulation of public relations". An algorithm for preparing an essay is proposed step by step. The proposed principles of working with the essay will also help to complete task 25 in the control and measuring materials (CMM) of the Unified State Exam in social studies.
The author's own long-term experience of working with schoolchildren in advising on preparing for the Unified State Exam in social studies is presented, practical recommendations for writing essays are given, quotations and examples of essays by graduates of previous years are analyzed.
The material will help you prepare yourself for tasks of a higher level of complexity, successfully cope with writing an essay to get a high score at the All-Russian Olympiads.
For students preparing for the Unified State Exam in social studies, teachers of social studies and history, methodologists, tutors and social studies consultants.
Geometry: a workshop in Excel
Authors: Sdvizhkov Oleg
Published: November 2024

The tutorial provides program codes for Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) Excel user functions and shows how they are used to solve typical geometry problems online on a computer.
The material of the textbook covers planimetry, stereometry, analytical geometry on a plane and in space. It includes: the basic formulas of the geometry sections under consideration; developed program codes for VBA Excel user functions; technologies for solving typical geometry problems using VBA functions; checking the results; tasks for self-solution.
Designed for students receiving secondary vocational education, it will also be useful to anyone who wants to master modern technologies for online solutions to problems of planimetry, stereometry or analytical geometry on a computer in the Excel program.
Introduction to the theory of algorithmic languages and compilers
Authors: Gagarina Larisa , Kokoreva Elena
Published: November 2024

The textbook provides a systematic course of mastering the theory of formal languages and grammars — both regular and context-free. The modern tasks of lexical, syntactic and semantic analysis are considered, as well as the well-known principles of their use for solving practical problems of software creation. The strict style of presentation is accompanied by numerous examples, as well as tasks for independent solution as part of practical tasks necessary for deep assimilation of the material.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students, postgraduates, researchers, teachers of higher educational institutions, as well as for those who are interested in the mathematical foundations of programming.
Economic theory
Authors: Privalov Nikolay
Published: November 2024

We present a textbook on the new type of economic theory "Russian Economics", systematically combining the best traditions of neoclassical economics, classical political economy, other economic (German historical school, institutionalism) and non-economic disciplines (history, political science, sociology, cybernetics, biology, psychology, mathematics, etc.). The main methodological principles of interdisciplinary communication are consistency and focus on achieving social balance. Well—known models of economic theory are analyzed in the light of their adaptation to the cultural traditions of Russia, which is ensured by taking into account institutional factors affecting the economy and feedback from readers - situational tasks and control questions on topical issues of Russian reality. The chronological principle of the presentation of the material is ensured by linking economic models with the historical situation and the personalities of the outstanding authors who created them — A. Smith, A. Marshall, K. Marx, J.M. Keynes, P. Sorokin, N.D. Kondratiev, T. Parsons, V.V. Leontiev, etc. A comparative analysis of the state of the economy and management of Russia and the United States is given, as well as the economic and political potential of the European Union, China and India is described. The traditions of the university textbook are complemented by elements of monographic research, in particular, on the problem of the synthesis of marginalism and the labor theory of value. The economic history of modern Russia is presented within the framework of traditional themes, taking into account the geopolitical conditions of the first decades of the 21st century — information and sanctions wars, new types of economic crises (mortgage, coronavirus), the development of contradictions in the digital economy and the aggravation of the global crisis.
For undergraduates and postgraduates studying economics, and anyone interested in the problems of the modern economy and Russia's place in world geopolitics.
HIV facial lipodystrophy treatment by polylactic acid – a literature review
Authors: Solarz Adam , Szabelski Szymon , Turcza Jakub
Published: November 2024

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a disease that negatively affects the immune system, requiring chronic, regular antiretroviral therapy, associated with numerous side effects. Lipodystrophy is one of them and is a serious clinical, psychological and social problem for patients affected by the problem. Volume loss and the formation of deep tissue defects in the facial area are caused by skeletal resorption and the redistribution of fat compartments, which progress with age but are also significantly exacerbated prematurely in the course of HIV and applied antiretroviral therapy. For a large group of patients, this constitutes a significant cosmetic defect, often leading to discontinuation of necessary, antiretroviral treatment. Various forms of treatment for this condition are currently available worldwide, including the implantation of non-permanent tissue fillers, such as hyaluronic acid-based fillers, or autologous fat cell transplants. The use of polylactic acid in the treatment of lipodystrophy is a therapeutic method with proven efficacy, effectiveness and a high safety profile, which will be discussed in this article.
Ocular Manifestations in Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Review Article
Authors: Hrapkowicz Aleksandra , Szydziak Joanna , Janowska Kinga , Wrześniewska Martyna , Wołoszczak Julia , Zając-Pytrus Hanna
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a diverse group of tumors that arise from neuroendocrine cells and can synthesize and secrete neuropeptides or hormones. Although NETs usually originate from the gastrointestinal tract or bronchopulmonary tree, they can affect various organs, including the eye. The majority of ocular association with neuroendocrine tumors results from metastasis that affects the orbit, however, primary ocular tumors have been reported.
Purpose of the study: The article reviews the presentation of ocular manifestations in neuroendocrine tumors including pheochromocytoma, ocular paraganglioma, gastrointestinal and bronchial NETs, Merkel cell carcinoma and neuroendocrine metastasis.
Materials and methods:  In order to summarize the current knowledge on the topic, a literature review of English language papers with a focus on the most current literature was performed. The review was conducted with the PubMed database with 43 works used, accessed before September 2024.
Conclusions: Instances of neuroendocrine tumors leading to ocular manifestations have become increasingly prevalent. These nonspecific symptoms can make it challenging to diagnose ocular NETs. Ocular manifestations are not typically the primary symptom, but patients with tumors located in the eye may experience symptoms such as eye pain, blepharitis or exophthalmos. Ocular motility and vision may also be affected. It is crucial to study the association between those symptoms and NETs, in order to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the matter.
“Territorio sur: tejido de vidas. Existimos porque resistimos”
Authors: Arciniegas Quiroga Daniela , Castillo Herrera Diana Paola , Lozano Espinosa Luz Adriana , Quimbayo Ruiz Germán A.
Published: November 2024

Este trabajo documenta el proceso de creación e investigación colaborativa de la instalación museográfica denominada “Territorio sur: tejido de vidas. Existimos porque resistimos”. La exhibición, que se desarrolló en el espacio del Museo de la Ciudad Autoconstruida (MCA) en Bogotá, D. C. (Colombia), dio cuenta de las violencias, tensiones y resistencias socioambientales que atraviesa la localidad de Ciudad Bolívar, en el sur de la capital colombiana. Nuestra contribución, además de documentar esta experiencia, aporta a la reflexión sobre cuáles conceptos y prácticas de paz y reconciliación emergen de violencias y resistencias socioambientales como las presentes en Ciudad Bolívar. Un territorio marcado por diferentes violencias, conflictos y desigualdades socioecológicas en clave de género, etnia, clase, entre otras, también ofrece alternativas a presentes y futuros más justos para superar la urbanización desigual en tiempos de emergencia climática y transitar hacia procesos de reparación y reconciliación ecológica y territorial.
The value of a PET scan in selecting the best lymph node to biopsy, and confirming the diagnosis of idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease with HLH and EBV viremia in a previously healthy adult
Authors: Bitektine Erica , Hagh-Daoust Hamila , Michel René P. , Isnard Stephane , Routy Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Castleman disease (CD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder having a variegated clinical presentation. Diagnosis of the idiopathic HIV- and HHV8-negative multicentric CD (iMCD) subtype poses a challenge given its non-specific clinical manifestations. iMCD presents as diffuse lymphadenopathy with inflammatory manifestations, primarily driven by interleukin-6 (IL-6). Treatment includes suppressing the inflammation by targeting IL-6 with monoclonal antibodies such as siltuximab and, in severe cases, immuno-chemotherapy to control B- and plasma-cell activation. Case description: A previously healthy 43-year-old male presented to the emergency department with fever, night sweats, anasarca, anaemia, thrombocytopenia and acute renal insufficiency. Extensive blood and imaging workup was initiated. Several diagnoses were entertained including viral infections (comprising COVID-19), haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, lymphoma and autoimmune conditions. Initial axillary lymph node biopsy was not diagnostics. A positron emission tomography (PET) scan showed diffuse and symmetrical cervical and hilar/mediastinal lymphadenopathies. A mediastinal lymph node biopsy was then performed and indicated iMCD. The patient was treated with high-dose steroids and siltuximab. An Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) PCR was positive, and rituximab was added to the treatment. The patient recovered and felt well after two months. Conclusions: Non-specific symptoms, non-diagnostic first biopsy and iMCD resemblance to haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis further complicated the diagnosis. A PET scan allowed the best selection of a lymph node to be biopsied. Anti-IL6 is the recommended treatment; however, we are lacking information on the duration of siltuximab, and the long-term toxicity and immunosuppressive effect of this treatment. The contribution of EBV reactivation in the development and treatment of iMCD needs further investigation.
Practice patterns among ophthalmic surgeons in treating concomitant oculoplastic conditions in preoperative period: A questionnaire-based study
Authors: Panda Bijnya Birajita , Mishra Chitaranjan , Nayak Bhagabat , Roy Avik Kumar , Balakrishnan Logesh , Mishra Priyadarshini
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Addressing oculoplastic conditions in the preoperative period ensures both the safety and functional success of any ophthalmic procedure. Some oculoplastic conditions, like nasolacrimal duct obstruction, have been extensively studied, whereas others, like eyelid malposition and thyroid eye disease, have received minimal or no research.

AIM

To investigate the current practice patterns among ophthalmologists while treating concomitant oculoplastic conditions before any subspecialty ophthalmic intervention.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was disseminated among ophthalmologists all over India. The survey included questions related to pre-operative evaluation, anaesthetic and surgical techniques preferred, post-operative care, the use of adjunctive therapies, and patient follow-up patterns.

RESULTS

A total of 180 ophthalmologists responded to the survey. Most practitioners (89%) felt that the ROPLAS test was sufficient during pre-operative evaluation before any subspecialty surgery was advised. The most common surgical techniques employed were lacrimal drainage procedures (Dacryocystorhinostomy) (63.3%), eyelid malposition repair (36.9%), and ptosis repair (58.7%). Post-operatively, 47.7 % of respondents emphasized that at least a 4-week gap should be maintained after lacrimal drainage procedures and eyelid surgeries. Sixty-seven percent of ophthalmologists felt that topical anaesthetic procedures should be preferred while performing ocular surgeries in thyroid eye disease patients.

CONCLUSION

Approximately 50% of ophthalmologists handle prevalent oculoplastic issues themselves, seeking the expertise of an oculoplastic surgeon under particular conditions. Many ophthalmologists still favor using ROPLAS as a preliminary screening method before proceeding with cataract surgery. Eyelid conditions and thyroid eye disease are not as commonly addressed before subspecialty procedures compared to issues like nasolacrimal duct obstruction and periocular infections.
Advancement in utilization of magnetic resonance imaging and biomarkers in the understanding of schizophrenia
Authors: Tirpack Aidan K , Buttar Danyaal G , Kaur Mandeep
Published: November 2024

Historically, psychiatric diagnoses have been made based on patient’s reported symptoms applying the criteria from diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders. The utilization of neuroimaging or biomarkers to make the diagnosis and manage psychiatric disorders remains a distant goal. There have been several studies that examine brain imaging in psychiatric disorders, but more work is needed to elucidate the complexities of the human brain. In this editorial, we examine two articles by Xu et al and Stoyanov et al , that show developments in the direction of using neuroimaging to examine the brains of people with schizophrenia and depression. Xu et al used magnetic resonance imaging to examine the brain structure of patients with schizophrenia, in addition to examining neurotransmitter levels as biomarkers. Stoyanov et al used functional magnetic resonance imaging to look at modulation of different neural circuits by diagnostic-specific scales in patients with schizophrenia and depression. These two studies provide crucial evidence in advancing our understanding of the brain in prevalent psychiatric disorders.
Evaluation of changes in fixed flexion deformity following medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty
Authors: Wignadasan Warran , Magan Ahmed , Kayani Babar , Fontalis Andreas , Chambers Alastair , Rajput Vishal , Haddad Fares S.
Published: November 2024

Aims

While residual fixed flexion deformity (FFD) in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has been associated with worse functional outcomes, limited evidence exists regarding FFD changes. The objective of this study was to quantify FFD changes in patients with medial unicompartmental knee arthritis undergoing UKA, and investigate any correlation with clinical outcomes.

Methods

This study included 136 patients undergoing robotic arm-assisted medial UKA between January 2018 and December 2022. The study included 75 males (55.1%) and 61 (44.9%) females, with a mean age of 67.1 years (45 to 90). Patients were divided into three study groups based on the degree of preoperative FFD: ≤ 5°, 5° to ≤ 10°, and > 10°. Intraoperative optical motion capture technology was used to assess pre- and postoperative FFD. Clinical FFD was measured pre- and postoperatively at six weeks and one year following surgery. Preoperative and one-year postoperative Oxford Knee Scores (OKS) were collected.

Results

Overall, the median preoperative navigated (NAV) FFD measured 6.0° (IQR 3.1 to 8), while the median postoperative NAV FFD was 3.0° (IQR 1° to 4.4°), representing a mean correction of 49.2%. The median preoperative clinical FFD was 5° (IQR 0° to 9.75°) for the entire cohort, which decreased to 3.0° (IQR 0° to 5°) and 2° (IQR 0° to 3°) at six weeks and one year postoperatively, respectively. A statistically significant improvement in PROMs compared with baseline was evident in all groups (p < 0.001). Regression analyses showed that participants who experienced a larger FFD correction, showed greater improvement in PROMs (β = 0.609, p = 0.049; 95% CI 0.002 to 1.216).

Conclusion

This study found that UKA was associated with an approximately 50% improvement in preoperative FFD across all three examined groups. Participants with greater correction of FFD also demonstrated larger OKS gains. These findings could prove a useful augment to clinical decision-making regarding candidacy for UKA and anticipated improvements in FFD.
Field enhancement in micron-scale metallic plasmonic gratings
Authors: Vahedi Zeinab , Badieirostami Majid , Shahabadi Mahmoud
Published: November 2024

Field enhancement resulting from the confinement of surface plasmons in nanoscale dimensions is commonly a key feature of plasmonic structures. However, achieving this type of field enhancement requires nanoscale fabrication, which may limit their application in low-cost devices. The primary goal of this research is to achieve hotspots with considerable field enhancement and significant long extending length without requiring nanoscale dimensions. We show that this is achievable by means of the guided-mode resonance (GMR) phenomenon existing in micron-scale plasmonic gratings which can be easily fabricated using low-cost photolithography. To demonstrate this possibility, we concentrate on a binary silver grating and investigate the variety of its GMRs and categorize them to determine those having the required characteristics in terms of field enhancement and extending length. For this purpose, one requires an accurate and fast electromagnetic solver of metallic gratings. Using a transmission-line formulation (TLF), we compute the mode fields of plasmonic gratings in a significantly shorter timescale in comparison with the finite-element method (FEM); hence, we are able to easily generate several diagrams showing the modulation depth of gratings as a function of various geometrical parameters of the proposed binary silver grating. With the help of this computational approach, we design a structure showing 1900-fold field enhancement and an extending length of up to 8 µm. Finally, we validate our numerical results using a commercial FEM solver.
Dual-band all-optical logic gates for communication based on coherent control of gold-film stacked metamaterials
Authors: Gu Xiaocheng , Yu Ziqing , Wang Xiangfu
Published: November 2024

This study presents what we believe to be a novel gold-silica-gold stacked metamaterial structure based on the principle of coherent perfect absorption (CPA) to realize high-contrast all-optical logic gates operating at dual communication wavelengths centered around 1310 nm and 1550 nm. By optimizing the asymmetric split ring (ASR) structure, strong Fano-type plasmonic modes are achieved, leading to CPA in the target wavelengths. By manipulating the phase difference and intensity of the incident light beams, the designed logic gates can perform XOR, AND, OR, and NOT operations. The proposed design exhibits independence from the incident angle, stability against intensity fluctuations, and extremely high contrast. This design offers a multi-band, stable, and integrated solution for fiber optic communication networks and holds promise for broad applications in all-optical data processing and photonic communication devices.
Demonstration of 24-hour continuous optical turbulence monitoring in a city
Authors: Beesley L. F. , Griffiths R. , Hartley K. , Farley O. J. D. , Quatresooz F. , Rodríguez-Gómez A. , Comerón A. , Townson M. , Alaluf D. , Osborn J.
Published: November 2024

Atmospheric optical turbulence limits the performance of free-space optical communication links between the ground and space. The bandwidth provided by optical links enables the realization of ubiquitous, high-bandwidth and secure communications anywhere on Earth. However, currently very little is known about the nature and dynamics of vertical optical turbulence in critical urban environments, close to data centers and users that require high-bandwidth connections. TURBO is a turbulence monitoring facility, based on the 24-hour Shack-Hartmann Image Motion Monitor (24hSHIMM) instrument, capable of measuring optical atmospheric turbulence 24-hours a day in stronger turbulence conditions. Here we show a demonstration of continuous turbulence monitoring in an urban environment for the first time in Barcelona, Spain. TURBO will be an autonomous monitor generating valuable data for the community.
How deep is your art: An experimental study on the limits of artistic understanding in a single-task, single-modality neural network
Authors: Agha Zahedi Mahan , Gholamrezaei Niloofar , Doboli Alex
Published: November 2024

Computational modeling of artwork meaning is complex and difficult. This is because art interpretation is multidimensional and highly subjective. This paper experimentally investigated the degree to which a state-of-the-art Deep Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN), a popular Machine Learning approach, can correctly distinguish modern conceptual art work into the galleries devised by art curators. Two hypotheses were proposed to state that the DCNN model uses Exhibited Properties for classification, like shape and color, but not Non-Exhibited Properties, such as historical context and artist intention. The two hypotheses were experimentally validated using a methodology designed for this purpose. VGG-11 DCNN pre-trained on ImageNet dataset and discriminatively fine-tuned was trained on handcrafted datasets designed from real-world conceptual photography galleries. Experimental results supported the two hypotheses showing that the DCNN model ignores Non-Exhibited Properties and uses only Exhibited Properties for artwork classification. This work points to current DCNN limitations, which should be addressed by future DNN models.