bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, simulation and feasibility of the innovative agricultural warehouse receipt system through dynamic programming and agent-based models
Authors: Riazi Maryam , Mojaverian Seyed Mojtaba , Laskookalayeh Somayeh Shirzadi , Mirzaei Abbas
Published: January 2024

To address marketing challenges in the agricultural sector, provide financial support for small-scale farmers over marketing seasons, manage price risks of agricultural products, and enhance the functioning of agricultural mercantile exchanges, it is attainable to implement an efficient and compliant warehouse receipt system (WRS) that aligns with the legal, institutional, social, and economic-financial conditions of a country. The aim of this study is to design, simulate, and assess the feasibility of an innovative WRS in the agricultural sector. To achieve this, a WRS was designed and evaluated for maize crop in Iran. The research methodology of this study is divided into three main parts: design, simulation, and feasibility assessment of the WRS. The design process incorporated the FAO-provided (2009) warehouse receipt system development, considering the experiences of various countries and the institutional and financial regulations specific to Iran. Additionally, a dynamic programming model was used to simulate the system, and an agent-based model was utilized for system feasibility assessment. The study results demonstrated that it is possible to design an innovative and efficient WRS by involving four key actors, including farmers, buyers, mercantile exchange company, and the warehouse (governmental institution), and establishing clear communications among them. Based on simulation results using dynamic programming model, it was evident that four parameters, namely the annualized loan interest rate, the valuation coefficient for loan collateral, price volatility of the product over the marketing season, and the warehouse cost-to-product value ratio, significantly impact the adoption of the WRS by farmers. In conclusion, the findings from the agent-based model revealed that setting the annualized loan interest rate at 8%, a collateral valuation coefficient of 85%, price fluctuations over the non-harvest time at 60%, and a warehouse cost-to-product value ratio of 2% can result in the participation of nearly 100% of farmers in the proposed WRS.
Associations between fatty infiltration of rotator cuff muscles and rotator cuff tear location and severity
Authors: Kajiyama Shiro , Aoki Tatsunari , Sada Kiyoshi , Chiba Ko , Sato Shuntaro , Osaki Makoto
Published: January 2024

Background
The fatty infiltration (FI) of rotator cuff muscles in patients with rotator cuff tear is affected by a range of factors, but the associations between FI grade and patient factors, as well as the location and severity of adjacent rotator cuff tears, are not well-known. The hypothesis of this study is the progression of FI grade of each of the rotator cuff muscles is affected by the severity of any tear in the adjacent rotator cuff.
Methods
The study examined 373 shoulders of 348 patients (264 males and 109 females; mean age was 62.8 years old) who had undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery. Age at surgery, sex, body mass index (BMI), and duration of symptoms were investigated. The FI grades of the supraspinatus (SSP), infraspinatus (ISP), and subscapularis (SSc) muscles were assessed on preoperative MRI according to the Goutallier classification. Intraoperatively, the severity of the posterior-superior rotator cuff (SSP-ISP) tear was classified on a six-grade scale modified the Cofield classification, and that of the SSc tear on a six-grade scale according to the Lafosse classification. We performed descriptive statistics on these results and examined their relationship with FI grade.
Results
The FI grades of the SSP and the ISP were significantly associated with the severity of the tears in those muscles, and the FI grade of the SSc was significantly associated with the severity of the tear in that muscle. Furthermore, the FI grades of the SSP and the ISP were significantly associated with SSc tear severity, and the FI grade of the SSc was significantly associated with SSP-ISP tear severity.
Conclusions
The progression of FI grade of each of the rotator cuff muscles is affected not only by the tear severity in the muscle concerned, but also by the severity of any tear in the adjacent rotator cuff.
Heterogeneous network coupling induced coexistence of activated and inactivated clusters in individual cognitive networks
Authors: Chen Dehua , Yang Zhiyin , Liao Xuhong , Liu Zonghua
Published: January 2024

It was evidenced that in the sleep deprived brain, subsets of neurons may enter an off period while
others remain on, called {\it local sleep} (Nature {\bf 472}, 443 (2011)), but the underlying mechanism
is still not completely understood. To figure out the answer, herein we present a neural network model
of individual cognitive networks with adaptive chemical coupling and interestingly find that with the
increase of coupling strength, a phenomenon of coexistence of activated and inactivated clusters can be
observed, which thus provides a possible explanation for the mechanism of local sleep. This phenomenon
is closely related to the feature of degree heterogeneity of cognitive networks and will disappear in
homogeneous networks. Further, we show that the activated cluster comes from recurrent oscillation death
while the inactivated cluster comes from their stabilized synchronization. Finally, a brief theoretical
analysis is provided to explain these results.
Exploring the Structural, Electronic, and Hydrogen Storage Properties of Hexagonal Boron Nitride and Carbon Nanotubes: Insights from Single-Walled to Doped Double-Walled Configurations
Authors: Sakr Mahmoud A. S. , Abdelsalam Hazem , Teleb Nahed H. , Abd-Elkader Omar H. , Zhang Qinfang
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the structural intricacies and properties of single-walled nanotubes (SWNT) and double-walled nanotubes (DWNT) composed of hexagonal boron nitride (BN) and carbon (C). Doping with various atoms including light elements (B, N, O) and heavy metals (Fe, Co, Cu) is taken into account. The optimized configurations of SWNT and DWNT, along with dopant positions, are explored, with a focus on DWNT-BN-C. The stability analysis, employing binding energies, affirms the favorable formation of nanotube structures, with DWNT-C emerging as the most stable compound. Quantum stability assessments reveal significant intramolecular charge transfer in specific configurations. Electronic properties, including charge distribution, electronegativity, and electrical conductivity, are examined, showcasing the impact of doping. Energy gap values highlight the diverse electronic characteristics of the nanotubes. PDOS analysis provides insights into the contribution of atoms to molecular orbitals. UV-Vis absorption spectra unravel the optical transitions, showcasing the influence of nanotube size, dopant type, and location. Hydrogen storage capabilities are explored, with suitable adsorption energies indicating favorable hydrogen adsorption. The desorption temperatures for hydrogen release vary across configurations, with notable enhancements in specific doped DWNT-C variants, suggesting potential applications in high-temperature hydrogen release. Overall, this comprehensive investigation provides valuable insights into the structural, electronic, optical, and hydrogen storage properties of BN and C nanotubes, laying the foundation for tailored applications in electronics and energy storage.
Comparative analysis of Sarcopenia in hospitalized elderly: exploring the impact of liver cirrhosis
Authors: Romano Antonino Davide , Cornacchia Maria Giulia , Sangineto Moris , Gioia Giuseppe Di , Villani Rosanna , Serviddio Gaetano
Published: January 2024

The progressive aging of the population has led to a rise in geriatric pathologies, with sarcopenia, characterized by muscle mass and function loss, becoming a crucial prognostic indicator. This study investigates sarcopenia in elderly hospitalized patients with advanced chronic liver disease (cirrhotic) and non-liver disease patients, comparing their prevalence and exploring correlations with anthropometric and biochemical factors. The cohort of 115 patients, including 50 cirrhotic and 65 non-cirrhotic individuals, exhibited significant comorbidities and a mean age of 78.4 years. Cirrhotic patients presented distinct laboratory parameters indicating liver damage. Applying European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People criteria, probable sarcopenia prevalence was similar in cirrhotic (62%) and non-cirrhotic (63%) patients. Stratifying probable sarcopenia into confirmed sarcopenia and dynapenia revealed no significant differences between populations. Correlation analyses demonstrated positive associations between appendicular muscle mass and anthropometric parameters, malnutrition risk, and grip strength. In cirrhotic patients, muscle mass inversely correlated with liver damage. Odds ratio analysis highlighted MNA's significant predictive capability for sarcopenia. ROC curve analysis affirmed MNA and biochemical markers' combined use, such as transferrin, albumin, total cholesterol, lymphocyte count and C-reactive protein as a strong predictor. Despite limitations, such as a small subpopulation, this study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive sarcopenia screening in elderly hospitalized patients, with MNA and biochemical markers offering a reliable approach. Further research is needed to validate these findings and guide clinical interventions.
Cellulose dissolved in ionic liquids as in situ generated filler in epoxy biocomposites with simultaneous curing initiated by ionic liquids
Authors: Zielinski Dawid , Szpecht Andrea , Maciejewski Hieronim , Smiglak Marcin
Published: January 2024

Cellulose, a ubiquitous natural biopolymer, has found diverse applications in industries such as paper manufacturing, textiles, and food. The pivotal breakthrough emerged with the discovery that ionic liquids (ILs) can dissolve cellulose, initiating comprehensive studies over the past two decades. This study explores the effectiveness of a selected system comprising of [EMIM][OAc], [EMIM][DCA], and DMSO in cellulose dissolution, validated through a 5% cellulose solution and use of such systems as initiators of epoxy resin curing. In epoxy resin systems, the cellulose fibers formed in situ affect the mechanical properties of the final materials, which in the work presented here were flax fiber-reinforced epoxy composites. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) showed that cellulose inclusion minimally affected curing temperatures but reduced enthalpy. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) demonstrated in situ cellulose fiber generation during mixing, ensuring high compatibility with the resin matrix. Mechanical testing revealed promising outcomes, including increased Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) and enhanced Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT). However, a 50% reduction in impact strength indicated increased brittleness.
Dual-specificity phosphatase 26 inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion of prostate cancer via the TAK1-JNK/p38 signaling pathway
Authors: Huang Ruo-Hui , Zeng Qing-Ming , Jiang Bo , Xu Gang , Xiao Guan-Cheng , Xia Wei , Liao Yun-Feng , Wu Yu-Ting , Zou Jun-Rong , Qian Biao , Xiao Ri-Hai , Yuan Yuan-Hu , Zhang Guo-Xi , Zou Xiao-Feng
Published: January 2024

As the most frequently identified malignant tumor of the male genitourinary system, prostate cancer (PCa) is threatening the health of millions of people worldwide because of its malignant, easy-to-transfer, and complicated complications. Moreover, the complex pathological mechanism of prostate cancer has not been fully elaborated and needs to be further explored. Here, we found that the expression of DUSP26, a deubiquitylation enzyme, is dramatically suppressed, and a positive connection of its expression with PCa prognosis was also observed. In vitro, overexpression of DUSP26 significantly inhibited the proliferative, migrative, and invasive capacities of PC3 cell, DUSP26 silencing presented opposite results. Further tumor formation experiments in subcutaneous nude mice demonstrated that DUSP26 overexpression could significantly suppress PC3 growth in vivo. Moreover, it also suggested that the DUSP26 overexpression negatively connected to key tumorigenesis signaling pathways through analysis of RNA-Seq. Mechanically, DUSP26 significantly inhibited MAPK signaling pathway activation, and further experiments displayed that DUSP26 could impair TAK1, p38, and JNK phosphorylation. Interestingly, treatment with the TAK1 inhibitor attenuated the effect of DUSP26 on PC3 cells. Together, these results suggested that DUSP26 may serve as a novel therapeutic target for PC3 cell type PCa by inhibiting the TAK1-JNK/p38 signaling.
RETRACTED: Structural Assessment and Design Comparison of a Six-Lane Post-Tensioned Spine and Wing Type Segmental Bridge with I-Girder Bridge
Authors: Jain Nilesh , Mishra Sushree Sangita , Charhate Shrikant , maralapalle Vedprakash
Published: January 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
SUB-Immunogold-SEM reveals nanoscale distribution of submembranous epitopes
Authors: Miller Katharine K. , Wang Pei , Grillet Nicolas
Published: January 2024

Electron microscopy paired with immunogold labeling is the most precise tool for protein localization. However, these methods are either cumbersome, resulting in small sample numbers and restricted quantification, or limited to identifying protein epitopes external to the membrane. Here, we introduce SUB-immunogold-SEM, a scanning electron microscopy technique that detects intracellular protein epitopes proximal to the membrane. We identified four critical sample preparation factors that contribute to the method’s sensitivity and validate its efficacy through precise localization and high-powered quantification of cytoskeletal and transmembrane proteins. We evaluated the capabilities of SUB-immunogold-SEM on cells with highly differentiated apical surfaces: (i) auditory hair cells, revealing the presence of nanoscale Myosin rings at the tip of stereocilia; and (ii) respiratory multiciliate cells, mapping the distribution of the SARS-CoV-2 receptor ACE2 along the motile cilia. SUB-immunogold-SEM provides a novel solution for nanoscale protein localization at the exposed surface of any cell.
A Case Study of the Development of a Valid and Pragmatic Implementation Science Measure: The Barriers and Facilitators in Implementation of Task-Sharing Mental Health Interventions (BeFITS-MH) Measure
Authors: Yang Lawrence H. , Bass Judy K. , Le PhuongThao Dinh , Singh Ritika , Gurung Dristy , Velasco Paola R. , Grivel Margaux M. , Susser Ezra , Cleland Charles M. , Muñoz Rubén Alvarado , Kohrt Brandon A. , Bhana Arvin
Published: January 2024

Background: Few implementation science (IS) measures have been evaluated for validity, reliability and utility – the latter referring to whether a measure captures meaningful aspects of implementation contexts. In this case study, we describe the process of developing an IS measure that aims to assess Barriers and Facilitators in Implementation of Task-Sharing in Mental Health services (BeFITS-MH), and the procedures we implemented to enhance its utility.
Methods: We summarize conceptual and empirical work that informed the development of the BeFITS-MH measure, including a description of the Delphi process, detailed translation and local adaptation procedures, and concurrent pilot testing. As validity and reliability are key aspects of measure development, we also report on our process of assessing the measure’s construct validity and utility for the implementation outcomes of acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility.
Results: Continuous stakeholder involvement and concurrent pilot testing resulted in several adaptations of the BeFITS-MH measure’s structure, scaling, and format to enhance contextual relevance and utility. Adaptations of broad terms such as “program,” “provider type,” and “type of service” were necessary due to the heterogeneous nature of interventions, type of task-sharing providers employed, and clients served across the three global sites. Item selection benefited from the iterative process, enabling identification of relevance of key aspects of identified barriers and facilitators, and what aspects were common across sites. Program implementers’ conceptions of utility regarding the measure’s acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility were seen to cluster across several common categories.
Conclusions: This case study provides a rigorous, multi-step process for developing a pragmatic IS measure. The process and lessons learned will aid in the teaching, practice and research of IS measurement development. The importance of including experiences and knowledge from different types of stakeholders in different global settings was reinforced and resulted in a more globally useful measure while allowing for locally-relevant adaptation. To increase the relevance of the measure it is important to target actionable domains that predict markers of utility (e.g., successful uptake) per program implementers’ preferences. With this case study, we provide a detailed roadmap for others seeking to develop and validate IS measures that maximize local utility and impact.
Oncological and functional outcomes of pathological fractures of lower extremities in patients with malignant bone tumors
Authors: Hashimoto Kazuhiko , Nishimura Shunji , Ito Tomohiko , Kakinoki Ryosuke , Goto Koji
Published: January 2024

Background: Managing pathological fractures of the extremities can be difficult. We aimed to suggest our treatment algorithm for lower bone malignancies.Methods:Thirty-eight patients with impending and pathological fractures treated at our department were included. Age, sex, fracture site, type of primary malignancy, number of metastases, pre-fracture Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS) score, adjuvant therapy, treatment modality, operative time, blood loss, postoperative complications, Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score, outcomes, and follow-up period were retrospectively surveyed. Post-treatment MSTS scores in cases of impending and pathological fractures were compared. The MSTS scores were compared between intramedullary nail fixation and surgical procedures other than intramedullary nail fixation. The postoperative 1-year survival rate was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method.Results:The median age of the sample was 68 years. The disease sites were the subtrochanteric femur in 10 patients, the trochanteric femur in eight, the femoral diaphysis in seven, the femoral neck in five, the bilateral trochanteric femur in three, the proximal tibia in three, and the distal femur in two. Ten patients had metastases in ≤3 and 20 sites. The median pre-fracture ECOG-PS score was 1. As adjuvant chemotherapy, radiotherapy was administered to five, chemotherapy to eight, and radiotherapy and chemotherapy to 10 patients. Surgical procedures included intramedullary nails in 18 patients; tumor arthroplasty in four; plate fixation in three; artificial head replacement in three; compression hip screw (CHS) in three; conservative treatment in two; bilateral intramedullary nail fixation in two; and artificial bone stem with combined intramedullary nail and plate fixation, right-sided artificial head replacement, and left-sided CHS in one each. The operating time was 100±45.8 minutes, and blood loss was 63±153.4 mL. The MSTS score was 19.9±8.95 for intramedullary nail fixation and 24.3±7.45 for other procedures, with a negative correlation between the MSTS score and pre-fracture ECOG-PS. The median follow-up period was 8 months. The outcomes were as follows: alive with disease, 23 patients; continued disease-free, 1 patient; and dead due to disease, 14 patients. The 1-year postoperative overall survival rate was 60.5%.Conclusions:Our treatment algorithm for malignant bone tumors of the lower extremity was useful.
On the development of the Berezovsky mine
Authors:   Branch of JSC ‟Suek-Krasnoyarsk Mine Berezovsky”, Buinitskiy Aleksandr Ivanovich
Published: January 2024

Te purpose of the article is to present the main results of the development of the enterprise and the difculties that arise in this (using the example of the Berezovsky mine), allowing managers to use the experience of improving the structure of employees’ activities based on improving the relationship of its stakeholders. Relevance. In the context of tougher competition in the product, labor and capital markets, the key factor in ensuring the viability of an enterprise is its development, which allows it to develop new opportunities and reserves at the right pace. Methodology. Observation; summarizing the experience of enterprises; critical review of publications on the research topic; logical modeling; questioning and expert assessments; interviewing; analytical calculations. Results of the work and their scope. Te methodology used includes criteria for assessing the activities of personnel, methodological tools for identifying and improving the state of critical areas of activity. Its application at the Berezovsky mine ensured an increase in the level of production organization and coordination of personnel interaction. Te ideas of the heads and employees of production units about the need to implement the function of improving production, mastering other popular functions (diversifying activities) and increasing the quality of the performance of already mastered functions were formed. Tis made it possible to master the production of new products from coal, as well as in the conditions of a sharp increase in demand for coal, to increase labor productivity in terms of rock mass by 2,1 times. At the same time, defects in the organization of the production process were revealed, directions and methods for further development of the mine were determined. Conclusions. Te development of an enterprise as a key factor in its viability is ensured on the basis of a change in the structure of each employee’s activity in interaction with other employees, means and subject of labor – both by involving personnel in improving production, and by improving the organizational and economic conditions for the implementation of the production process and its quality.
The Development of Artisanal Gold Mining in the African Region: A Historical Overview
Authors:   Siberian Federal University, Kirsanov Aleksandr Konstantinovich
Published: January 2024

Te purpose of the paper is to provide a comprehensive historical overview of the development of artisanal gold mining in the African region, including the economic, political, social and environmental factors that have infuenced its growth, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing the sector today. Methods. Te study was conducted through a comprehensive review of available literature, including academic articles, books, reports and online resources. Relevant information was gathered and analyzed to identify the key economic, political, technological, environmental and social factors that have infuenced the growth and impact of artisanal gold mining in Africa over time. An exploratory approach was used, using a thematic analysis method to identify and categorize the various themes. Results. A historical review of artisanal gold mining in Africa leads to a number of important conclusions. First, the sector has grown signifcantly over time, with production increasing from a few kilograms per year in the early 20th century to millions of ounces per year in the 21st century. Second, a number of economic, political, social, and environmental factors have infuenced the growth of the sector, including changes in global gold prices, national mining policies, technological innovation, migration processes, and land use practices. Tird, the sector has had both positive and negative impacts on local communities and the environment, with positive aspects including employment, income generation, and improved access to basic services, and negative aspects including land degradation, deforestation, water pollution, and health hazards. Conclusions. Te work presented underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach to understanding artisanal gold mining. While the sector has contributed to economic development and poverty reduction in some areas, it has also created signifcant social and environmental costs that need to be addressed through efective policies and interventions. Key challenges facing the sector include the informal and unregulated nature of operations, lack of access to fnance and technology, and the need to balance the interests of various stakeholders, including mining communities, governments, and environmental groups. Overall, the historical review underscores the importance of a sustainable and inclusive approach to artisanal gold mining that addresses the needs and aspirations of all stakeholders and contributes to the long-term well-being of both people and the planet.
Fedor Ivanovich Rukavishnikov (1902–1942) and former rukavishnikovite (now ternesite)
Authors:   Ural State Mining University, POLENOV Yuriy Alekseevich
Published: January 2024

Fedor Ivanovich Rukavishnikov is a major specialist in the field of mineralogy of the Urals. Author of the first Ural identification of minerals based on external characteristics. He worked at the Sverdlovsk Mining Institute from 1925 to 1937 and was successively an assistant, associate professor of the Department of Mineralogy, and also served as vice-rector and rector. In 1937 he went to Moscow to work at the Institute of Geological Sciences of the Academy of Sciences USSR. In 1941 he joined the Moscow militia, was captured and died in a concentration camp in 1942. A new mineral was named in honor of Fyodor Ivanovich – rukavishnikovite, which was discovered by B.V. Chesnokov in the burnt dumps of the Chelyabinsk coal basin. The International Mineralogical Association did not approve it as a new mineral species, and a few years later a natural analogue of rukavishnikovite, ternesite, was found in Germany
Boundary description of microstates of the two-dimensional black hole
Authors: Ahmadain Amr , Frenkel Alexander , Ray Krishnendu , Soni Ronak M.
Published: January 2024

We identify the microstates of the non-supersymmetric, asymptotically flat 2d black hole in the dual c=1 matrix quantum mechanics (MQM). We calculate the partition function of the theory using Hamiltonian methods and reproduce one of two conflicting results found by Kazakov and Tseytlin. We find the entropy by counting states and the energy by approximately solving the Schrödinger equation. The dominant contribution to the partition function in the double-scaling limit is a novel bound state that can be considered an explicit dual of the black hole microstates. This bound state is long-lived and evaporates slowly, exactly like a black hole in asymptotically flat space.
The use of salicylic acid and glucocorticosteroids in vulgar psoriasis
Authors: Shperling N. V. , Shperling M. I. , Chaplygin A. V. , Chaplygina N. V.
Published: January 2024

Among all forms of psoriasis, vulgar psoriasis (VP) occupies a leading place. The pathogenesis of VP is complex and involves significant participation of various components of the immune system, which manifests itself in the development of not only local, but also systemic inflammation. Also, the course of psoriasis is characterized by disturbances at the level of cellular metabolism, which is reflected in the activation of free radical oxidation and a change in the redox potential. As a consequence, the course of VP is often accompanied by many chronic diseases. The treatment of patients with uncomplicated VP and without articular manifestations is based on the use of local therapy – topical glucocorticosteroids (tGCS), vitamin D analogues, calcineurin inhibitors, keratolytics, as well as targeted phototherapy. At the same time, tGCS monotherapy requires long-term supportive treatment, which is associated with the presence of specific side effects of tGCS. This, in turn, makes it rational to use a combination of local drugs. Considering the variety of approaches to the treatment of VP, it is relevant to study the effectiveness of the use of a combination of various local and systemic drugs of psoriasis therapy. The addition of keratolytics can potentiate the positive effects of tGCS and is especially effective with pronounced peeling. In addition, the use of systemic cytoprotective therapy in the treatment strategy of VP can improve the clinical effect due to the acceleration of degradation of free radical oxydation products and normalization of the redox potential of blood and tissues, which is disrupted in psoriasis. The article shows the clinical effectiveness of the use of combined local therapy based on salicylic acid and tGCS in medicinal forms of ointment and lotion for VP based on clinical examples.
Prospects for the application of kuril tea shoots in rehabilitating patients with frequently and long-term respiratory virus diseases
Authors: Trebukhov A. V. , Goryacheva M. V.
Published: January 2024

Introduction. Frequently and long-term ill children are an urgent problem in pediatrics. It is of interest to take into account the possibility of rehabilitation of frequently and long-term ill children using the natural resources of the region.

Objective. To study the clinical and immunological parameters of children -residents of the Altai Territory, who are often prone to acute respiratory diseases, and the effect on these indicators of herbal tea from the shoots of Pentaphylloides fruticosa, used in complex therapy and rehabilitation of frequently and long-term ill children.

Materials and methods. The study involved 49 children aged 3.5 to 7 years of both sexes, who are in the dispensary group of frequently and long-term ill children. During the study, a retrospective analysis of primary medical documentation was carried out, as well as a comprehensive clinical and laboratory, microbiological and parasitological examination, and determination of the immune status. In a prospective cohort study, the effect of the use of herbal tea from the shoots of Pentaphylloides fruticosa on the clinical and immunological parameters of frequently and long-term ill children was evaluated as part of complex therapy with bacterial lysates and endogenous interferon inducers.

Results. The age-sex structure of frequently and long-term ill children is dominated by children of preschool age (up to 70%), mostly males (53%), who have a burdened anamnesis (31%). Frequent episodes of respiratory diseases are not a consequence of immune deficiency and develop against the background of an associated, persistent viral and bacterial infection that occurs against the background of transient functional instability of the immune system. The quantitative analysis of immunograms showed a significant immunocorrective role of Pentaphylloides fruticosa extraction preparations in comparison with baseline values.

Conclusions. The conducted clinical and immunological study did not reveal any significant clinically significant disorders of the immune system in frequently and long-term ill children -residents of the Altai Territory. At the same time, the use of extractive preparations of Pentaphylloides fruticosa has a significant immunocorrective effect on the parameters of the immune system and can be considered as an important component in the complex rehabilitation of frequently and long-term ill children from the age of 3.5 years.
Current ideas about the role of ranolazine in patients’ treatment with angina pectoris
Authors: Gilyarevskiy S. R. , Tkacheva O. N.
Published: January 2024

The article presents modern views on the role of the anti-ischemic agent, ranolazine, in the treatment of a wide range of patients with angina pectoris. It also provides data on a percentage increase in the number of patients with chronic coronary artery disease who need improved anti-ischemic therapy. The need to use alternative agents for the treatment of angina, which is highlighted in the article, is determined by a percentage increase in the number of elderly and senile patients with angina, as such patients often have concomitant diseases that limit the use of haemodynamic anti-ischemic agents. The authors consider various pathophysiological links in the development of myocardial ischemia, which may become the background for choosing a specific anti-ischemic agent. Amongst others, the article provides evidence data on the effectiveness of the usage of ranolazine in patients with angina pectoris and myocardial ischemia, but in the absence of coronary artery obstruction. The mechanisms of action of ranolazine, which determine both its anti-ischemic and pleiotropic effects, are discussed in detail. Special effects of ranolazine that may be beneficial for patients with coronary artery disease and clinically significant diastolic dysfunction are observed. This effect consisted of a positive effect of ranolazine on the left ventricular diastolic function. Data on the cost-effectiveness of the usage of ranolazine in the treatment of angina pectoris are provided. The antiarrhythmic action of ranolazine is considered separately. The article discusses the tolerability of ranolazine and its possible side effects. The all-round good tolerability and high safety of ranolazine in a wide range of patients with coronary artery disease are emphasized.
The role of glycemic control in the development of late complications of diabetes mellitus
Authors: Bulgakova S. V. , Kosareva O. V. , Dolgikh Yu. A. , Sharonova L. A. , Mamedova A. G.
Published: January 2024

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is constantly increasing throughout the world. It is known that type 2 diabetes is associated with the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, chronic heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. Modern therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus requires complex treatment and should be aimed not only at reducing glycemia, but also at managing the risks of cardiovascular and renal complications. The results of large scientific studies ADVANCE, ACCORD and VADT have clearly proven the role of glycemic control in the prevention of microvascular complications of diabetes. A number of studies have established that the parameters of glycemic variability are of independent importance in predicting diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy and cardiovascular complications. Hyperglycemia also plays an important role in the development of macrovascular complications. The modern approach to the management of diabetes as one of the most important methods of preventing micro-and macroangiopathies includes the need for mandatory self-monitoring of blood glucose. Self-monitoring of glycemia should be accurate, simple and convenient, allowing the patient to carry out effective and safe glucose-lowering therapy. One of the main aspects of self-monitoring of blood glucose is the choice of a glucometer. From the doctor’s point of view, the most important criterion for choosing a glucometer is compliance with accuracy standards, and from the patient’s point of view, convenience and ease of use. Thanks to the improvement of technology, the accuracy of blood glucose measurements increases, the procedure for self-monitoring of glycemia is simplified, which leads to increased adherence to treatment and the effectiveness of glucose-lowering therapy. Achieving and maintaining the target glycemic level, preventing micro-and macrovascular complications are impossible without the active full participation of the patient himself in the treatment of diabetes, self-monitoring of blood glucose using an accurate and patient-friendly glucometer, i.e., Contour Plus One.
A modern approach to diagnostic methods of the cornea and aqueous humor of anterior chamber of the eye in patients with anterior uveitis, associated with spondyloarthritis
Authors: Razumova I. Yu. , Surnina Z. V. , Godzenko A. A. , Agaeva L. M. , Yusef Yu. N.
Published: January 2024

Anterior uveitis is the dominant clinical extra-articular manifestation of spondyloarthritis associated with the carriage of the human leukocyte antigen allele (HLA-B27), which may precede joint and spinal involvement. In 20–30% of cases, uveitis occurs with frequent relapses – up to 5–6 exacerbations per year, often has a protracted character and is poorly amenable to local anti-inflammatory therapy, which leads to a decrease in vision and a deterioration in the quality of life. Timely and accurate assessment of the severity of intraocular inflammation plays an important role in making a diagnosis and in choosing the right treatment tactics for treating anterior uveitis in patients with HLA-B27-associated spondyloarthritis. The current standard clinical approach to assessing inflammation is the presence and number of inflammatory cells in the anterior chamber aqua humor according to the SUN classification using slit lamp imaging. However, the assessment of SUN is very subjective. Moreover, the individual variability in anterior chamber cell count, which is the main diagnostic criterion for uveitis, can be exacerbated by certain testing conditions, such as the brightness of the slit lamp light bar, light beam size calibration, light source intensity. Advances in optical imaging technology, the application of the latest technologies and the improvement of already known methods offer new opportunities for an objective, accurate and quantitative assessment of inflammation. The article describes the possibilities of studying the cornea and the anterior chamber of the eye using anterior segment optical coherence tomography, confocal microscopy of the cornea and keratotopometry.
The problem of choosing a genetically engineered biological drug in a patient with severe bronchial asthma
Authors: Titova O. N. , Volchkov V. A. , Kuzubova N. A. , Sklyarova D. B.
Published: January 2024

Severe bronchial asthma (SA) is asthma whose symptoms are not controlled by high doses of inhaled glucocorticosteroids, the main drug in the treatment of asthma. SA is associated with a high economic burden and remains a serious public health problem. Modern advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying respiratory tract inflammation have led to the development of monoclonal antibody therapy. In recent years, the approach to the treatment of patients with SA has undergone significant changes: six biological drugs have shown their effectiveness in phase 3 studies, especially in reducing exacerbations, improving asthma control, quality of life, lung function and the abolition of systemic corticosteroids or at least reducing their daily dose, with some differences between them. Choosing a targeted drug is always a difficult task, involving a thorough assessment of clinical, anamnestic and laboratory parameters. Biologics have different targets of exposure and, therefore, different therapeutic indications should be expected; however, some patients may be shown more than one drug, which makes it difficult to choose. The analysis of markers of eosinophilic inflammation makes it possible to determine the mechanisms of pathogenesis, predict the response to treatment, monitor its effectiveness or disease progression. Other factors that need to be analyzed are the frequency of symptoms, asthma triggers, baseline spirometry, oral corticosteroid intake status, frequency of exacerbations and concomitant diseases. The appointment of targeted therapy without a thorough assessment of clinical, functional and laboratory parameters, as well as the lack of control of these indicators during therapy can lead to insufficient effectiveness of treatment.
Сontemporary approaches to the treatment of acute bronchitis: benefits of herbal medicine
Authors: Fesenko O. V.
Published: January 2024

Acute bronchitis (AB) is an inflammation of the lower respiratory tract of predominantly viral etiology, the leading clinical symptom of which is a cough (usually productive), lasting no more than 2 weeks, in combination with characteristic signs of infection of the lower respiratory tract. OB is one of the most pressing problems of modern pulmonology, which is associated with a high incidence, reaching 30–40% annually. According to the results of epidemiological studies, OB is one of the most common reasons for patients seeking medical care in outpatient practice. In children, the incidence of OB in the Russian Federation averages 75–250 per 1000 per year, which is approximately 100 times higher than the incidence of pneumonia. According to the clinical recommendations of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, in the treatment of OB, in the vast majority of cases, the prescription of antibiotics is unjustified. For patients with OB who have a productive cough, it is recommended to prescribe mucoactive drugs to thin and improve sputum expectoration. Herbal medicine traditionally occupies an important place in the treatment of cough. To date, the most convincing evidence base has been obtained for combination preparations, including extracts of thyme herbs, ivy leaves and primrose roots. One of the most studied and effective herbal medicines for the treatment of acute bronchitis is the drug Bronchipret. The active ingredients of Bronchipret (syrup) are standardized extracts: liquid thyme herb extract and liquid ivy leaf extract; those of Bronchipret TP (film-coated tablets) are dry thyme herb extract and dry primrose root extract. Using this combination allows achieving maximum effectiveness due to a synergistic effect of the active ingredients used.
Topical issues of therapy for patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Grinevich V. B. , Pershko A. M. , Volga N. B. , Ivanyuk E. S. , Seliverstov P. V.
Published: January 2024

Ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune disease characterized by ulcerative destructive processes in the mucous membrane of the colon. Despite advances in the pharmaceutical industry, its prevalence in the world is increasing every year. The etiology of UC is currently unknown to the end. According to modern concepts, ulcerative colitis is considered as a multifactorial disease, in the pathogenesis of which genetic determinism, disorders of the intestinal microbiota with a decrease in populations of anaerobic bacteria in combination with the trigger action of environmental factors are discussed. With high probability, the leading pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease are associated with the polarization of the Th2-type immune response, which is characterized by the synthesis of IL-4, IL-5, IL-9 and IL-13, which is regulated by STAT-5 and Gata-3. During the development of the disease, Th17, a type of immune response, is also involved in the immunopathological process, but with the participation of transcription factors STAT-3 and ROR-yt and the synthesis of IL-17, IL-2, IL-6, IL-26 and IL-22, as well as chemokine CCL20. Diet and lifestyle are part of the global guidelines for the treatment of patients with ulcerative colitis. Derivatives of 5-aminosalicylic acid are used as basic therapy preparations: combined preparations and preparations of pure 5-aminosalicylic acid. Nevertheless, the administration of systemic glucocorticosteroids is indicated to control the activity of the disease. However, as our practice shows, they are effective, but only at the first attack and subsequent 2-3 relapses of the disease, followed by a high incidence of hormone resistance. To date, there are modern medicines with a different mechanism of action, allowing achieving stable remission and improving the quality of life of patients. Among them, JAK -tofacitinib inhibitors are of particular interest in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. This is the first oral drug capable of inducing and maintaining steroidal remission. The choice of a particular drug is determined by the experience of use, cost and national recommendations.
Diagnosis and treatment of dorsalgia in outpatient practice
Authors: Maksimov Yu. N. , Alekseeva O. A.
Published: January 2024

Dorsalgia − nonspecific back pain is the leader in the number of requests for medical help. Nonspecific musculoskeletal pain accounts for up to 80–90% of all pain syndromes. Back pain can be provoked by professional static-dynamic overloads, violations of the statics of the musculoskeletal system, exposure to cold and/or vibration, overweight, hereditary factors, etc. In outpatient practice, doctors often have to deal with various forms and clinical manifestations of dorsalgia. The leading role in the diagnosis is given to the physical examination of the patient. With the active collection of complaints and anamnesis, the doctor has the opportunity to identify the leading problem that prompted the patient to seek medical help, clarify the localization of the process, the time of occurrence and the sequence of symptoms, which allows you to fully imagine the picture of the disease and differentiate between simultaneously occurring nosologies. The identification of the affected structure, which is the root cause of musculoskeletal pain, does not affect the appointment of basic drug therapy, but it is absolutely necessary when conducting local injection therapy, as well as a number of non-drug treatment methods. Among the pharmacological drugs used to treat musculoskeletal pain, the priority remains for NSAIDs, the choice of which, first of all, is dictated by its safety. The favorable safety profile of Nimesil® (nimesulide) has been confirmed by numerous domestic and foreign studies. Nimesulide is registered in 50 countries for the treatment of pain syndromes, and is also used as an antipyretic and anti-inflammatory drug. According to the results of a study in the Russian Federation, Nimesil® (nimesulide) turned out to be the most frequently prescribed drug, which is due to its high effectiveness and ability to accumulate in therapeutic concentration in the focus of inflammation. In addition to pharmacotherapy, the treatment regimen for musculoskeletal pain should include, on a parity basis, non-drug treatment methods that allow correction of pathobiomechanical changes. If ignored, in many cases, drug anesthesia does not lead to the desired effect, which can contribute to the chronization of pain. The described clinical case illustrates the simultaneous course of two variants of dorsalgia in the patient, different in localization, clinical manifestations, severity and duration of the course.
Uso de Aprendizado de Máquina para Detecção Online de Fótons de Altas Energias
Authors: Marin Juan , Simas Filho Eduardo , Peralva Bernardo , Souza Edmar , Seixas José Manoel
Published: January 2024

A correta identificação de partículas e um dos principais objetivos de experimentos de física de altas energias. Devido a alta taxa de eventos no Grande Colisor de Hadrons (LHC), o experimento ATLAS tem empregado técnicas baseadas em aprendizado de máquina a fim de encontrar eventos raros em grandes massas de dados. Entre eles está o NeuralRinger, um conjunto classificador de rede neural projetado para detecção rápida de elétrons com base em anéis concêntricos de calorímetro (sistema de medição de energia). Nesse contexto, o presente trabalho propõe a avaliação desta técnica, incluindo o uso de rede neurais profundas, para a detecção rápida de fótons. Os resultados com dados simulados mostram a eficiencia do método proposto no ambiente do experimento ATLAS.