bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical Study Regarding the Presence of Gram Bacteria in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease and Periodontal Disease
Authors:   „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, VOINESCU Ioana , FERECHIDE Dumitru ,   „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: January 2022

Pathogenic bacteria, originating in the inflamed periodontium, can make their way into the body through the vascular system, either by entering the bloodstream or lymph directly or as internalized particles of immune cells. This research aims to investigate the existence of a potential connection between two pathologies – periodontitis and ischemic heart disease – by utilizing a DNA-DNA hybridization technique to highlight the presence of seven periodontal pathogens: A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, P. endodontalis, P. intermedia, T. forsythia, C. rectus and F. Nucleatum. The study was conducted over a period of 3 years on a sample consisting of 119 patients with cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease, divided into 3 groups by pathologies, as follows: the first group consisted of 31 patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, the second group consisted of 43 patients with periodontal disease and ischemic cardiomyopathy, and the third group consisted of 45 patients with periodontal disease. The results show the possibility of a correlation between the composition of the bacterial flora in the group of patients with cardiac disease and those with associated pathologies. In conclusion, we may state that periodontitis may be seen as a risk factor in heart disease, which may certify the possibility of an etiological connection between the two pathologies.
Particularities of Surgical Treatment for the Neuropathic Diabetic Foot
Authors:   „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, BOBIRCA Florin , BOBIRCA Anca ,   „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, JAUCA Cristina ,   Clinic of Surgery, „Dr. Ion Cantacuzino” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, FLORESCU Anca ,   Clinic of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, „Dr Ion Cantacuzino” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, MUSETESCU Anca ,   Craiova University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Romania, DUMITRESCU Dan ,   Clinic of Surgery, „Dr. Ion Cantacuzino” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania, BIRLIGEA Andra ,   „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, SCHVENINGER Andreea ,   „C.C.Iliescu” Emergency Institute for Cardiovascular Disease, Bucharest, Romania, PATRASCU Traian ,   „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: January 2022

Diabetic neuropathy is one of the chronic complications of diabetes and along with other complications causes a pathology called diabetic foot. The present study analyzed a group of 164 patients admitted to the surgery department of the Clinical Hospital “Doctor Ioan Cantacuzino” Bucharest, between September and December 2019. The results of the study highlight the potential for contamination of neuropathic lesions and the need for curative surgery, most conservative. The conclusion of the analysis emphasizes that the imbalance of the underlying disease changes, in a negative sense, the prognosis of any complication of it.
Rediscovery of the transcerebellar approach: improving the risk-benefit ratio in robot-assisted brainstem biopsies
Authors: Machetanz Kathrin , Grimm Florian , Wang Sophie , Schuhmann Martin U. , Tatagiba Marcos , Gharabaghi Alireza , Naros Georgios
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE

Conventional frame-based stereotaxy through a transfrontal approach (TFA) is the gold standard in brainstem biopsies. Because of the high surgical morbidity and limited impact on therapy, brainstem biopsies are controversial. The introduction of robot-assisted stereotaxy potentially improves the risk-benefit ratio by simplifying a transcerebellar approach (TCA). The aim of this single-center cohort study was to evaluate the risk-benefit ratio of transcerebellar brainstem biopsies performed by 2 different robotic systems. In addition to standard quality indicators, a special focus was set on trajectory selection for reducing surgical morbidity.

METHODS

This study included 25 pediatric (n = 7) and adult (n = 18) patients who underwent 26 robot-assisted biopsies via a TCA. The diagnostic yield, complication rate, trajectory characteristics (i.e., length, anatomical entry, and target-point location), and skin-to-skin (STS) time were evaluated. Transcerebellar and hypothetical transfrontal trajectories were reconstructed and transferred into a common MR space for further comparison with anatomical atlases.

RESULTS

Robot-assisted, transcerebellar biopsies demonstrated a high diagnostic yield (96.2%) while exerting no surgical mortality and no permanent morbidity in both pediatric and adult patients. Only 3.8% of cases involved a transient neurological deterioration. Transcerebellar trajectories had a length of 48.4 ± 7.3 mm using a wide stereotactic corridor via crus I or II of the cerebellum and the middle cerebellar peduncle. The mean STS time was 49.5 ± 23.7 minutes and differed significantly between the robotic systems (p = 0.017). The TFA was characterized by longer trajectories (107.4 ± 11.8 mm, p < 0.001) and affected multiple eloquent structures. Transfrontal target points were located significantly more medial (−3.4 ± 7.2 mm, p = 0.042) and anterior (−3.9 ± 8.4 mm, p = 0.048) in comparison with the transcerebellar trajectories.

CONCLUSIONS

Robot-assisted, transcerebellar stereotaxy can improve the risk-benefit ratio of brainstem biopsies by avoiding the restrictions of a TFA and conventional frame-based stereotaxy. Profound registration and anatomical-functional trajectory selection were essential to reduce mortality and morbidity.
Workflow and performance of intraoperative CT, cone-beam CT, and robotic cone-beam CT for spinal navigation in 503 consecutive patients
Authors: Kendlbacher Paul , Tkatschenko Dimitri , Czabanka Marcus , Bayerl Simon , Bohner Georg , Woitzik Johannes , Vajkoczy Peter , Hecht Nils
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE

A direct comparison of intraoperative CT (iCT), cone-beam CT (CBCT), and robotic cone-beam CT (rCBCT) has been necessary to identify the ideal imaging solution for each individual user’s need. Herein, the authors sought to analyze workflow, handling, and performance of iCT, CBCT, and rCBCT imaging for navigated pedicle screw instrumentation across the entire spine performed within the same surgical environment by the same group of surgeons.

METHODS

Between 2014 and 2018, 503 consecutive patients received 2673 navigated pedicle screws using iCT (n = 1219), CBCT (n = 646), or rCBCT (n = 808) imaging during the first 24 months after the acquisition of each modality. Clinical and demographic data, workflow, handling, and screw assessment and accuracy were analyzed.

RESULTS

Intraoperative CT showed image quality and workflow advantages for cervicothoracic cases, obese patients, and long-segment instrumentation, whereas CBCT and rCBCT offered independent handling, around-the-clock availability, and the option of performing 2D fluoroscopy. All modalities permitted reliable intraoperative screw assessment. Navigated screw revision was possible with each modality and yielded final accuracy rates > 92% in all groups (iCT 96.2% vs CBCT 92.3%, p < 0.001) without a difference in the accuracy of cervical pedicle screw placement or the rate of secondary screw revision surgeries.

CONCLUSIONS

Continuous training and an individual setup of iCT, CBCT, and rCBCT has been shown to permit safe and precise navigated posterior instrumentation across the entire spine with reliable screw assessment and the option of immediate revision. The perceived higher image quality and larger scan area of iCT should be weighed against the around-the-clock availability of CBCT and rCBCT technology with the option of single-handed robotic image acquisition.
Transcarotid access for remote robotic endovascular neurointerventions: a cadaveric proof-of-concept study
Authors: Berczeli Marton , Chinnadurai Ponraj , Legeza Peter T. , Britz Gavin W. , Lumsden Alan B.
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this proof-of-concept study was to demonstrate the setup and feasibility of transcarotid access for remote robotic neurointerventions in a cadaveric model.

METHODS

The interventional procedures were performed in a fresh-frozen cadaveric model using an endovascular robotic system and a robotic angiography imaging system. A prototype remote, robotic-drive system with an ethernet-based network connectivity and audio-video communication system was used to drive the robotic system remotely. After surgical exposure of the common carotid artery in a cadaveric model, an 8-Fr arterial was inserted and anchored. A telescopic guiding sheath and catheter/microcatheter combination was modified to account for the “workable” length with the CorPath GRX robotic system using transcarotid access.

RESULTS

To simulate a carotid stenting procedure, a 0.014-inch wire was advanced robotically to the extracranial internal carotid artery. After confirming the wire position and anatomy by angiography, a self-expandable rapid exchange nitinol stent was loaded into the robotic cassette, advanced, and then deployed robotically across the carotid bifurcation. To simulate an endovascular stroke recanalization procedure, a 0.014-inch wire was advanced into the proximal middle cerebral artery with robotic assistance. A modified 2.95-Fr delivery microcatheter (Velocity, Penumbra Inc.) was loaded into the robotic cassette and positioned. After robotic retraction of the wire, it was switched manually to a mechanical thrombectomy device (Solitaire X, Medtronic). The stentriever was then advanced robotically into the end of the microcatheter. After robotic unfolding and short microcatheter retraction, the microcatheter was manually removed and the stent retriever was extracted using robotic assistance. During intravascular navigation, the device position was guided by 2D angiography and confirmed by 3D cone-beam CT angiography.

CONCLUSIONS

In this proof-of-concept cadaver study, the authors demonstrated the setup and technical feasibility of transcarotid access for remote robot-assisted neurointerventions such as carotid artery stenting and mechanical thrombectomy. Using transcarotid access, catheter length modifications were necessary to achieve “working length” compatibility with the current-generation CorPath GRX robotic system. While further improvements in dedicated robotic solutions for neurointerventions and next-generation thrombectomy devices are necessary, the transcarotid approach provides a direct, relatively rapid access route to the brain for delivering remote stroke treatment.
Robot-guided versus freehand fluoroscopy-guided minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: a single-institution, observational, case-control study
Authors: Lin Ming-Chin , Liu Heng-Wei , Su Yu-Kai , Lo Wei-Lun , Lin Chien-Min
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE

The use of robotics in spinal surgery has gained popularity because of its promising accuracy and safety. ROSA is a commonly used surgical robot system for spinal surgery. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes between robot-guided and freehand fluoroscopy-guided instrumentation in minimally invasive surgery (MIS)–transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF).

METHODS

This retrospective consecutive series reviewed 224 patients who underwent MIS-TLIF from March 2019 to April 2020 at a single institution. All patients were diagnosed with degenerative pathologies. Of those, 75 patients underwent robot-guided MIS-TLIF, and 149 patients underwent freehand fluoroscopy-guided MIS-TLIF. The incidences of pedicle breach, intraoperative outcomes, postoperative outcomes, and short-term pain control were compared.

RESULTS

The patients who underwent robot-guided surgery had a lower incidence of pedicle breach (0.27% vs 1.75%, p = 0.04) and less operative blood loss (313.7 ± 214.1 mL vs 431.6 ± 529.8 mL, p = 0.019). Nonsignificant differences were observed in operative duration (280.7 ± 98.1 minutes vs 251.4 ± 112.0 minutes, p = 0.056), hospital stay (6.6 ± 3.4 days vs 7.3 ± 4.4 days, p = 0.19), complications (intraoperative, 1.3% vs 1.3%, p = 0.45; postoperative surgery-related, 4.0% vs 4.0%, p = 0.99), and short-term pain control (postoperative day 1, 2.1 ± 1.2 vs 1.8 ± 1.2, p = 0.144; postoperative day 30, 1.2 ± 0.5 vs 1.3 ± 0.7, p = 0.610). A shorter operative duration for 4-level spinal surgery was found in the robot-guided surgery group (388.7 ± 107.3 minutes vs 544.0 ± 128.5 minutes, p = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective review revealed that patients who underwent robot-guided MIS-TLIF experienced less operative blood loss. They also benefited from a shorter operative duration with higher-level (> 3 levels) spinal surgery. The postoperative outcomes were similar for both robot-guided and freehand fluoroscopy-guided procedures.
Robot-assisted frontofacial correction in very young children with craniofacial dysostosis syndromes: a technical note and early functional outcome
Authors: Udayakumaran Suhas , Krishnadas Arjun , Subash Pramod
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE

In this study, the authors aimed to 1) retrospectively analyze the early functional outcomes in a cohort of very young children with craniofacial dysostoses who underwent robot-assisted frontofacial advancement (RAFFA) or robot-assisted midface distraction (RAMD), and 2) analyze the utility of robotic assistance in improving the accuracy and safety of performing transfacial pin insertion for RAFFA or RAMD.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a cohort of 18 children (age range 1–42 months at presentation), who underwent RAFFA or RAMD from February 2015 to February 2021 in the craniofacial unit at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre in Kochi, India, was performed. Inclusion criteria were patients who had undergone RAFFA in a single stage or RAMD where the cranial vault had been addressed earlier, had been addressed on follow-up, or had not been addressed and had follow-up of at least 6 months.

RESULTS

Overall, 18 children with syndromic craniosynostosis underwent LeFort level III midface distraction, with or without RAFFA, from February 2015 to February 2021 at a single center in India. The patients’ ages ranged from 6 to 47 months at the time of the procedure. All patients had significant obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), significant ocular issues, and disturbed sleep as determined by the authors’ preoperative protocol. Clinically significant intracranial pressure issues were present in 17 patients. None of the patients had injury due to the transfacial pin trajectory such as globe injury, damage to the tooth buds, or the loss of purchase during the active distraction phase. The mean distraction achieved was 23 mm (range 18–30 mm) (n = 16/18). Of the 18 patients, 10 (56%) had an excellent outcome and 6 (33%) had a satisfactory outcome. In all cases, the degree of OSA had significantly reduced after surgery. Eye closure improved in all patients, and complete closure was seen in 11 patients. On follow-up, the functional gain remained in 14 of 16 patients at the final follow-up visit. The distraction results were stable during the follow-up period (mean 36 months [range 6–72 months]).

CONCLUSIONS

The early RAFFA and RAMD protocols investigated in this study gave a significant functional advantage in very young patients with craniofacial dysostoses. The results have demonstrated the accuracy and safety of robotic assistance in performing transfacial pin insertion for RAFFA or RAMD.
Does robot-assisted navigation influence pedicle screw selection and accuracy in minimally invasive spine surgery?
Authors: Shafi Karim A. , Pompeu Yuri A. , Vaishnav Avani S. , Mai Eric , Sivaganesan Ahilan , Shahi Pratyush , Qureshi Sheeraz A.
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE

The accuracy of percutaneous pedicle screw placement has increased with the advent of robotic and surgical navigation technologies. However, the effect of robotic intraoperative screw size and trajectory templating remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to compare pedicle screw sizes and accuracy of placement using robotic navigation (RN) versus skin-based intraoperative navigation (ION) alone in minimally invasive lumbar fusion procedures.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using a single-institution registry of spine procedures performed over a 4-year period. Patients who underwent 1- or 2-level primary or revision minimally invasive surgery (MIS)–transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) with pedicle screw placement, via either robotic assistance or surgical navigation alone, were included. Demographic, surgical, and radiographic data were collected. Pedicle screw type, quantity, length, diameter, and the presence of endplate breach or facet joint violation were assessed. Statistical analysis using the Student t-test and chi-square test was performed to evaluate the differences in pedicle screw sizes and the accuracy of placement between both groups.

RESULTS

Overall, 222 patients were included, of whom 92 underwent RN and 130 underwent ION MIS-TLIF. A total of 403 and 534 pedicle screws were placed with RN and ION, respectively. The mean screw diameters were 7.25 ± 0.81 mm and 6.72 ± 0.49 mm (p < 0.001) for the RN and ION groups, respectively. The mean screw length was 48.4 ± 4.48 mm in the RN group and 45.6 ± 3.46 mm in the ION group (p < 0.001). The rates of “ideal” pedicle screws in the RN and ION groups were comparable at 88.5% and 88.4% (p = 0.969), respectively. The overall screw placement was also similar. The RN cohort had 63.7% screws rated as good and 31.4% as acceptable, while 66.1% of ION-placed screws had good placement and 28.7% had acceptable placement (p = 0.661 and p = 0.595, respectively). There was a significant reduction in high-grade breaches in the RN group (0%, n = 0) compared with the ION group (1.2%, n = 17, p = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that robotic assistance allows for placement of screws with greater screw diameter and length compared with surgical navigation alone, although with similarly high accuracy. These findings have implied that robotic platforms may allow for safe placement of the “optimal screw,” maximizing construct stability and, thus, the ability to obtain a successful fusion.
Robotic external ventricular drain placement for acute neurosurgical care in low-resource settings: feasibility considerations and a prototype design
Authors: Smith Alexander D. , Teague Alexander J. , Naik Anant , Janbahan Mika , Smith Emily J. , Krist David T. , Parupalli Sindhu , Teal Kevin , Hassaneen Wael
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE

Emergency neurosurgical care in lower-middle-income countries faces pronounced shortages in neurosurgical personnel and infrastructure. In instances of traumatic brain injury (TBI), hydrocephalus, and subarachnoid hemorrhage, the timely placement of external ventricular drains (EVDs) strongly dictates prognosis and can provide necessary stabilization before transfer to a higher-level center of care that has access to neurosurgery. Accordingly, the authors have developed an inexpensive and portable robotic navigation tool to allow surgeons who do not have explicit neurosurgical training to place EVDs. In this article, the authors aimed to highlight income disparities in neurosurgical care, evaluate access to CT imaging around the world, and introduce a novel, inexpensive robotic navigation tool for EVD placement.

METHODS

By combining the worldwide distribution of neurosurgeons, CT scanners, and gross domestic product with the incidence of TBI, meningitis, and hydrocephalus, the authors identified regions and countries where development of an inexpensive, passive robotic navigation system would be most beneficial and feasible. A prototype of the robotic navigation system was constructed using encoders, 3D-printed components, machined parts, and a printed circuit board.

RESULTS

Global analysis showed Montenegro, Antigua and Barbuda, and Seychelles to be primary candidates for implementation and feasibility testing of the novel robotic navigation system. To validate the feasibility of the system for further development, its performance was analyzed through an accuracy study resulting in accuracy and repeatability within 1.53 ± 2.50 mm (mean ± 2 × SD, 95% CI).

CONCLUSIONS

By considering regions of the world that have a shortage of neurosurgeons and a high incidence of EVD placement, the authors were able to provide an analysis of where to prioritize the development of a robotic navigation system. Subsequently, a proof-of-principle prototype has been provided, with sufficient accuracy to target the ventricles for EVD placement.
Outpatient endoscopic resection of large calcified thoracic disc herniation with caudal displacement
Authors: Konakondla Sanjay , Sofoluke Nelson , Barber Sean M. , Rimini Sarah A. , Slotkin Jonathan R.
Published: January 2022

Thoracic disc herniations can cause radiculopathy and myelopathy from neural compression. Surgical resection may require complex, morbid approaches. To avoid spinal cord retraction, wide exposures requiring extensive tissue, muscle, and bony disruption are needed, which may require instrumentation. Anterior approaches may require vascular surgeons, chest tube placement, and intensive care admission. Large, calcified discs or migrated fragments can pose additional challenges. Previous literature has noted the endoscopic approach to be contraindicated for calcified thoracic discs. The authors describe an ultra–minimally invasive, ambulatory endoscopic approach to resect a large calcified thoracic disc with caudal migration and avoidance of conventional approaches.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID2112
Improvement of optic nerve pial blood supply visualized through indocyanine green videoangiography after resection of a tuberculum sellae meningioma: 2-dimensional operative video
Authors: Ceccato Guilherme H. W. , de Oliveira Júlia S. , dos Santos Neto Pedro H. , Carvalho Nick D. , Coelho Vinicius N. , Hasegawa Hugo A. , Sprengel Sergio L. , Rassi Marcio S. , Borba Luis A. B.
Published: January 2022

Ischemia of the optic nerve (ON) is an important cause of visual field deficit provoked by tuberculum sellae (TS) meningiomas. Indocyanine green (ICG) videoangiography could provide prognostic information. Moreover, it allows new insight into the pathophysiology of visual disturbance. The authors present the case of a 48-year-old woman with visual field impairment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) depicted a lesion highly suggestive of a TS meningioma. Following microsurgical resection, ICG videoangiography demonstrated improvement of right ON pial blood supply. In this case, there was one lesion causing visual impairment through both direct compression over the left ON and ischemia to the right nerve.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21155
Augmented-reality template guided transorbital approach for intradural tumors
Authors: Jean Walter C. , Sack Kenneth D. , Tsen Andrew R.
Published: January 2022

For “minimally invasive” approaches to a deep-lying skull base lesion, the bone opening must be precisely placed and adequately wide to accomplish the surgical goal. Surgical rehearsal in virtual reality (VR) can generate navigation-integrated augmented reality (AR) templates to ensure precise surgical openings.

In this video, the authors used AR templates for the transpalpebral, transorbital approach for intradural tumors. VR renderings of patient-specific anatomy were used in surgical rehearsal. The optimal openings were saved and, at surgery, projected into the eyepiece of the navigation-tracked microscope. The template enhanced the planning of the incision and soft-tissue exposure and guided the drill toward the target.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21172
Intraoperative use of heads-up display in skull base surgery
Authors: Salgado-Lopez Laura , Oemke Holly , Feng Rui , Matsoukas Stavros , Mocco J , Shrivastava Raj , Bederson Joshua
Published: January 2022

In this video, the authors highlight the applications of virtual reality and heads-up display in skull base surgery by presenting the case of a 45-year-old woman with an incidental large clinoid meningioma extending into the posterior fossa. The patient underwent preoperative endovascular tumor embolization to facilitate tumor resection and reduce blood loss, followed by a right pterional craniotomy. The use of intraoperative Doppler, intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, and endoscope-assisted microsurgery is also featured. A subtotal resection was planned given tumor encasement of the posterior communicating and anterior choroidal arteries. No new neurological deficits were noted after the surgical procedure.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21177
ICG Flow 800 technology targeted STA-MCA microvascular bypass for exclusion of deep-seated fusiform MCA aneurysm: 2-dimensional operative video
Authors: Candanedo Carlos , Goldstein Kobi , Cohen José E. , Spektor Sergey
Published: January 2022

The authors present the case of an 18-year-old male with a deep-seated left fusiform dissecting M3 aneurysm for which endovascular treatment was not applicable. At the open surgery, they used the less commonly reported FLOW 800 fluorescent indocyanine green (ICG) videoangiography, before and after parental aneurysmal artery temporary clipping, to locate the distal outflow branch of the aneurysm and use it as the recipient artery for a superficial temporal artery–M4 bypass, excluding the aneurysm by clipping the parental artery. Repeated ICG FLOW 800 angiography confirmed bypass patency and adequate blood flow. The aneurysm’s exclusion from circulation was confirmed by digital subtraction angiography postoperatively.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21183
Application of FLOW 800 in extracranial-to-intracranial bypass surgery for moyamoya disease
Authors: Yim Benjamin , Gauden Andrew J. , Steinberg Gary K.
Published: January 2022

The surgical treatment of moyamoya disease is heavily reliant upon a real-time understanding of cerebral hemodynamics. The application of FLOW 800 allows the surgeon to semiquantify the degree of perfusion to the cerebral cortex following extracranial-to-intracranial (EC-IC) bypass surgery. The authors present three illustrative cases demonstrating common intraoperative findings prior to and following anastomosis using FLOW 800. All patients were diagnosed by catheter angiogram with moyamoya disease and noninvasive imaging demonstrating hemispheric hypoperfusion. Superficial temporal artery (STA)–to–middle cerebral artery (MCA or M4) bypasses were performed to augment intracranial perfusion. The patients tolerated the procedures well and were discharged without event in stable neurological condition.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21191
Insular gliomas and tractographic visualization of the connectome
Authors: Dadario Nicholas B. , Teo Charles , Sughrue Michael E.
Published: January 2022

In this video, the authors present a connectome-guided surgical resection of an insular glioma in a 39-year-old woman. Preoperative study with constrained spherical deconvolution (CSD)–based tractography revealed the surrounding brain connectome architecture around the tumor relevant for safe surgical resection. Connectomic information provided detailed maps of the surrounding language and salience networks, including eloquent white matter fibers and cortical regions, which were visualized intraoperatively with image guidance and artificial intelligence (AI)–based brain mapping software. Microsurgical dissection is presented with detailed discussion of the safe boundaries and angles of resection when entering the insular operculum defined by connectomic information.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21194
Contralateral interhemispheric transfalcine approach to precuneal glioblastoma: fluorescein guided microsurgical resection and endoscopic microinspection tool
Authors: Olszewski Adam M. , Tranmer Bruce I. , Liebelt Brandon D.
Published: January 2022

Maximum safe resection remains a primary goal in the treatment of glioblastoma, with gross-total resection conveying additional survival benefit. Multiple intraoperative visualization techniques have been developed to improve the extent of resection. Herein, the authors describe the use of fluorescein and endoscopic assistance with a novel microinspection device in achieving a gross-total resection of a deep seated precuneal glioblastoma. An interhemispheric transfalcine approach was utilized and microsurgical resection was completed with fluorescein guidance. A 45° endoscope was then used to inspect the resection bed, and remaining areas of concern were then resected under endoscopic visualization.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21195
5-ALA fluorescence in indeterminate grade gliomas
Authors: Müther Michael , Stummer Walter
Published: January 2022

5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is a useful and well-established adjunct for glioblastoma surgery. A growing body of evidence has revealed the potential utility of 5-ALA in grade II and grade III glioma patients as well. However, reliable means of identifying in whom fluorescence will occur have not been established. The authors report the case of such an indeterminate-grade glioma highlighting two pearls of 5-ALA fluorescence in this subgroup of patients. Firstly, 5-ALA–guided tissue sampling helps to ensure that the true grade of the lesion is not underestimated. Secondly, intraoperative fluorescence can serve as a prognostic marker.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21196
Contact endoscopy as a novel technique for intra-operative identification of normal pituitary gland and adenoma
Authors: Jackson Christina , Kong Derek Kai , Gersey Zachary C. , Wang Eric W. , Zenonos Georgios , Snyderman Carl H. , Gardner Paul A.
Published: January 2022

Intraoperative distinction of pituitary adenoma from normal gland is critical in maximizing tumor resection without compromising pituitary function. Contact endoscopy provides a noninvasive technique that allows for real-time in vivo visualization of differences in tissue vascularity. Two illustrative cases of endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEAs) for resection of pituitary adenoma illustrate the use of contact endoscopy in identifying tumor from gland and differentiating a thin section of normal gland draped over the underlying tumor, thereby allowing for safe extracapsular tumor resection. Contact endoscopy may be used as an adjunct for intraoperative, in vivo differentiation of pituitary gland and adenoma.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21199
Second window ICG predicts postoperative MRI gadolinium enhancement in high grade gliomas and brain metastases
Authors: Karsalia Ritesh , Cheng Nina H. , Teng Clare W. , Cho Steve S. , Harmsen Stefan , Lee John Y. K.
Published: January 2022

A prospective trial evaluating the utility of second window indocyanine green (SWIG) in predicting postoperative MRI gadolinium enhancement was performed on high-grade gliomas (HGGs) and brain metastases. Compared to white light alone, SWIG demonstrated a higher sensitivity, negative predictive value, and accuracy in predicting residual neoplasm on MRI. The specificity of SWIG for predicting MRI enhancement was higher in HGGs than brain metastases. Clinically, near-infrared (NIR) imaging was better able to predict tumor recurrence than postoperative MRI. These results illustrate how SWIG is able to take advantage of gadolinium-like distribution properties to extravasate into the tumor microenvironment, enabling guidance in surgical resection.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID21204
Microscope-based augmented reality with diffusion tensor imaging and fluorescein in insular glioma resection
Authors: Luzzi Sabino , Giotta Lucifero Alice
Published: January 2022

Maximal safe resection is the goal of insular glioma surgery. The combination of intraoperative augmented reality (AR) diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) fiber tracking with fluorescein dye (F) helps achieve this goal throughout a microscope-based visualization of the tumor and white matter fiber tracts.

The aim of the present video article was to show the technical key aspects of DTI-F microscope-based AR-assisted surgery during the gross-total resection of an insular Berger-Sanai type I+IV high-grade glioma in a 63-year-old patient, performed through a pterional transsylvian approach.

The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.10.FOCVID2157
A probabilistic approach to the dynamic cut-off grade assessment
Authors: Bragin Victor , Kharitonova Margarita , Matsko NATALYA
Published: January 2022

Cut-off grade is an important conditioning parameter that determines the quantity and quality of recoverable reserves and development efficiency.  Today, Russian mining companies operate with certified quality requirements. By setting permanent quality requirements, the government seeks to prevent depletion of reserves, reduced production during periods of falling prices, and decreased budget revenues, expressing the interests of all members of society. But to what extent do the permanent quality requirements protect the interests of the state? The answer to this question is ambiguous and does not lie on the surface. The State Commission for Reserves and domestic researchers are working to find a rational solution to the problem of quality requirements. One solution is dynamic quality requirements. The effectiveness of their application has been proven for individual mining companies, but it is incorrect to transfer these conclusions to the entire mineral resource base of the country.

This article presents a new approach to determining the dynamic cut-off grade, which varies depending on the price of minerals. The dynamic cut-off grade is proposed to be determined based on the indicators of constant requirements to the quality of exploration work, using the maximum allowable costs in the region. The approach allows to calculate the effect of the introduction of dynamic cut-off grade in the practice of subsurface use for the state (in the form of the amount of taxes received) and for subsoil users (in the form of the amount of income). For a group of gold-bearing deposits with open-pit mining method, it was established that the development of reserves using dynamic values of the cut-off grade in periods of price changes ensures compliance with the interests of the state and subsoil users.
Natural gas methane number and its influence on the gas engine working process efficiency
Authors: Didmanidze Otari , Afanasev Aleksandr , Khakimov Ramil
Published: January 2022

The natural gas usage as a vehicle fuel in the mining industry is one of the priority tasks of the state. The article pays special attention to the component composition of natural gas from the point of view of its thermal efficiency during combustion in the combustion chamber of a power plant on a heavy-duty vehicle in difficult quarry conditions. For this, domestic and foreign methods for determining the main indicator characterizing the knock resistance of fuel in the combustion process – the methane number – are considered. Improvement of technical and economic indicators will be carried out by changing the composition of the gas mixture based on methane to fit the design features of the gas power plant, the methane number will be the determining indicator. A theoretical analysis of the influence of the methane number on such engine parameters as the compression ratio and the maximum speed of the flame front propagation in the second phase of combustion in the engine cylinder, expressed through the angle of rotation of the crankshaft, is presented. Based on the results of theoretical and experimental studies, the dependences of the influence of the methane number on the efficiency of the working process of the engine and its external speed characteristic were obtained.
Utilization of sewage sludge as an ameliorant for reclamation of technogenically disturbed lands
Authors: Petrova Tatyana , Rudzisha Edelina
Published: January 2022

When rehabilitating technogenically disturbed lands of mining facilities, fertilizers and ameliorants are to be applied due to the lack of organic matter and nutrients required for the restoration of the soil and vegetation layer. The use of unconventional fertilizers (ameliorants) based on sewage sludge is one of the actual directions of land reclamation at mining sites. The purpose of the work is to summarize and analyze up-to-date information on the effectiveness of the use of sewage sludge for the reclamation of technogenically disturbed lands of mining and processing industries. The analysis is based on a review of recent studies aimed at assessing the impact of introduced sediment on soils, plant communities, and rehabilitated areas. The introduction of sewage sludge has a positive effect on the physical and chemical parameters of the soil (optimizes density and aggregation), saturates it with nutrients, i.e. N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and Na, thus improving plant growth indicators. However, it may contain a number of heavy metals and pathogens; therefore, studies of each sediment and conditions of reclaimed areas are necessary.
Prediction of the stress state of the shotcreting support under repeated seismic load
Authors: Karasev Maksim , Sotnikov Roman
Published: January 2022

The article assesses the impact of repeated blasts on the stress-strain state of the shotcreting support, which negatively affects the bearing capacity of the support and can lead to the formation of local rock falls in places of significant degradation of the shotcreting strength. Despite the fact that a single seismic load usually does not have a significant impact on the technical condition of the shotcreting support, repeated dynamic loading can lead to the development of negative processes and affect the safety. The article considers unreinforced and dispersed-reinforced shotcreting concrete as a shotcreting support. Models of deformation of rock and shotcreting support have been studied. To describe the deformation model of a rock mass, an elastic–plastic model based on the Hook-Brown plasticity condition has been accepted, which accurately describes the elastic-plastic behavior of a fractured medium. When performing the prediction of the stress-strain state of the shotcreting support, a model of plastic deformation of concrete with the accumulation of Concrete Damage Plasticity (CDP) was adopted, which allows to comprehensively consider the process of concrete deformation both under conditions of uniaxial compression and stress, and with minor edging draft. At the first calculation stage, a forecast of the seismic waves propagation in the immediate vicinity of the explosive initiation site was made. At the second stage, forecasts of the seismic waves propagation to the mine working and the stress-strain state of the support were made. On the basis of the performed studies, a methodology for assessing the impact of repeated blasts on the stress-strain state of the shotcreting support of the mine working is proposed.
Influence of hydraulic compression on porosity and permeability properties of reservoirs
Authors: Khuzin Rinat , Andreev Vadim , Mukhametshin Vyacheslav , Kuleshova Lyubov , Dubinskiy Gennadiy , Safiullina Аlbina
Published: January 2022

Active development of hard-to-recover oil reserves causes the need for an innovative approach to methods of oil recovery and intensification of its production, based on taking into account the specifics of filtration processes in low-productive reservoirs and complex geological and physical conditions. Pilot works for studying the mechanism of changes in porosity and permeability properties of reservoirs during swabbing of wells are presented. Based on the hydrodynamic investigations performed, the results of the work are analyzed. The method of oil production intensification using hydraulic compression of formation has been developed. It has been shown that when using hydraulic compression technology in the pore space of the formation, the effect of capillary and gravitational forces is strongly reduced. The influence of these forces decreases when significant pressure gradients with changing direction are formed during well swabbing for depression impact on the bottomhole zone of the formation. Hydraulic compression induced an increase in well productivity and flow rate; insights into how how permeability and porosity properties change during well swabbing were clarified. The range of compressive durability (minimum and maximum values) was determined for the Verean deposits of the Melekeskaya Depression and the South Tatar arch. The impact of formation hydraulic compression caused changes in permeability and porosity properties of the reservoir in the bottomhole zone on a qualitative level. Piezo- and hydraulic conductivity increased by 20 %. Experimental work in well 1545 of Keremetyevskoe field showed an increase of piezo- and hydraulic conductivity coefficients, effective formation thickness, change of filtration flows character.
Increasing the efficiency of rare earth metal recovery from technological solutions during processing of apatite raw materials
Authors: Ponomareva Maria , Cheremisina Olga , Mashukova Yulia , Lukyantseva Elena
Published: January 2022

The issues of complex processing of mineral resources are relevant due to the depletion of available raw materials. So, it is necessary to involve technological waste, generated during the processing of raw materials, to obtain valuable components. In the process flow of apatite concentrate treatment using the sulfuric acid method, a large amount of phosphogypsum is produced with an average content of light rare earth metals (REMs) reaching 0.032-0.45 %. When phosphogypsum is treated with sulfuric acid solutions, a part of REMs is transferred to the sulfate solution, from which it can be extracted by means of ion exchange method. The study focuses on sorption recovery of light REMs (praseodymium, neodymium and samarium) in the form of anionic sulfate complexes of the composition [ln(SO4)2]– on polystyrene anion exchanger AN-31. The experiments were performed under static conditions at a liquid-to-solid ratio of 1:1, pH value of 2, temperature of 298 K and initial REM concentration in the solutions ranging from 0.83 to 226.31 mmol/kg. Thermodynamic description of sorption isotherms was carried out by the method based on linearization of the mass action equation, modified for the ion exchange reaction. As a result of performed calculations, the authors obtained the constants of ion exchange equilibrium for Pr, Nd and Sm, as well as the values of the change in the Gibbs energy for the ion exchange of REM sulfate complexes on the AN-31 anion exchanger and the values of total capacity of the anion exchanger. Calculated separation factors indicated low selectivity of AN-31 anionite exchanger for light REMs; however, the anion exchanger is suitable for effective recovery of a sum of light REMs. Based on the average value of ion exchange equilibrium constant for light REMs, parameters of a sorption unit with a fluidized bed of anion exchanger were estimated.
An Argument for Simple Tests of Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Daly Timothy , Mastroleo Ignacio , Henry Vincent , Bourdenx Mathieu
Published: January 2022

Two potential disease-modifying approaches for dementia are being vigorously tested: the early targeting of the neuropathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and multi-domain lifestyle interventions to promote resilience to neuropathology. We apply the “web of information” model of clinical translation to both approaches to argue firstly that tests of treatments aiming to achieve clinically meaningful outcomes should remain simple, and secondly, that building clinically-meaningful treatments should be kept separate from public health policy which means promoting wide-reaching action against risk factors now with available information.
СУЧАСНИЙ СТАН РОЗРОБЛЕНОСТІ ПРОБЛЕМИ РОЗВИТКУ ПРОФЕСІЙНОЇ КОМПЕТЕНТНОСТІ МОЛОДШИХ ІНСПЕКТОРІВ ПРИКОРДОННОЇ СЛУЖБИ ЗАСОБАМИ ДИСТАНЦІЙНОГО НАВЧАННЯ
Authors: БІЛЯВЕЦЬ Андрій
Published: January 2022

У статті розглянуто педагогічний, професійний та організаційний аспекти проблеми розвитку професійної компетентності молодшого персоналу Державної прикордонної служби України з використанням засобів дистанційного навчання. Наведено коротку характеристику системи професійної підготовки та підвищення кваліфікації персоналу. Автор наголошує на необхідності диференційованого підходу до розроблення матеріалів для навчання молодших інспекторів прикордонної служби з урахуванням особливостей оперативно-службової діяльності органів та підрозділів Державної прикордонної служби. Досліджено зарубіжні та вітчизняні наукові підходи до трактування поняття професійної компетентності. Узагальнено результати досліджень і публікацій науковців у прикордонній сфері України з проблеми сутності структури та змісту професійної компетентності офіцерів і молодшого персоналу прикордонного відомства, а також праць, присвячених розробці та використанню засобів дистанційною навчання в системі підвищення кваліфікації офіцерів-прикордонників. Досліджено основні принципи роботи Головного центру дистанційного навчання Державної прикордонної служби України, загальний порядок проведення курсів дистанційного навчання для офіцерського складу та молодших інспекторів прикордонної служби. Наголошено на необхідності залучення безпосередніх керівників до моніторингу якості засвоєння навчальних курсів дистанційного навчання. Узагальнено сучасний досвід проходження курсів за дистанційною формою для молодших інспекторів прикордонної служби у підрозділах, зміст курсів для підвищення кваліфікації персоналу. Підкреслено важливість додаткових досліджень щодо особливостей використання засобів дистанційного навчання в системі підвищення кваліфікації для молодших інспекторів прикордонної служби, сутності структури та змісту професійної компетентності молодшого персоналу прикордонного відомства з урахуванням специфіки цієї категорії.