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Sergey V Popov,1– 3 Igor N Orlov,1,4 Daria Yu Chernysheva,1 Sergey M Malevich1 1Urology Department, St. Luke’s Clinical Hospital, Saint-Petersburg, Russia; 2Urology Department, Military Medical Academy Named After S.M. Kirova, Saint-Petersburg, Russia; 3Hospital Surgery Department, Saint-Petersburg State University, Saint-Petersburg, Russia; 4Urology Department, North-Western State Medical University Named After I.I. Mechnikov, Saint-Petersburg, RussiaCorrespondence: Daria Yu ChernyshevaUrology Department, St. Luke’s Clinical Hospital, Chugunnaya Street 46, Saint-Petersburg, 194044, RussiaTel +7921 873 85 60Fax +7812 576 11 55Email Daria.chern@gmail.comAbstract: Cystic formations in the prostate are quite common, but the vast majority are benign. The cystic form of prostate adenocarcinoma can present unexpected symptoms, and management can be difficult because of the local advanced stage of the disease. A unique feature of this case is the surgical local cancer treatment. In this clinical case, we describe the literature surrounding this rare form of neoplasm. We present a clinical case of a rare form of prostate cancer in a 71-year-old male who was admitted to ER with acute urinary retention. A huge obstructing prostatic cyst was revealed. After successful trial-without-catheter, the patient underwent transperineal cyst draining and this restored urination. PSAt was increased up to 55 ng/mL. The cystic wall biopsy revealed adenocarcinoma with a Gleason score of 8 (4+4) (Gleason Group IV), and distant metastasis was noticed with PSMA PET/CT. The patient started androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with excellent PSA dynamics in three months. Because of lower urinary tract symptoms, he needed local treatment and underwent radical prostatectomy. A three-month follow-up demonstrated a common post-operative period, mild stress incontinence, and PSAt 0.004 ng/mL. Cystic prostatic carcinoma can manifest as urinary retention and be mistakenly taken for a benign obstructing prostate cyst. Despite the locally advanced tumor, it can be successfully treated locally in highly selected patients.Keywords: prostate cancer, cystic adenocarcinoma, urinary obstruction

Despite increased attention by molecular taxonomists, the herpetofauna of Southeast Asia still hides many undescribed species among far-ranging taxa. In this study, we re-examine the mitochondrial diversity of painted frogs of the microhylid genus Kaloula, based on ~2,455 bp of published and new 12S and 16S rRNA sequences, and describe two new species from the tropical forests of southern Vietnam and central Laos based on integrative evidence. These species, which belong to the K. baleata complex, feature species-level mitochondrial divergence (> 4.4% at 16S rRNA) and are both morphologically well-differentiated from each other and from the recently described K. indochinensis, to which they were previously confounded. Comparative examinations also indicate distinct male advertisement calls and unique coloration features. Based on genetic barcoding, we preliminarily revise the species distribution ranges in the K. baleata complex, which support a general pattern of biogeographic partitioning that has been widely retrieved among the Indochinese amphibians studied so far. Molecular diversity within K. baleata further suggests genetic structure across Sundaland, namely three shallow mitochondrial haplogroups worthy of fine-scale phylogeographic and taxonomic investigations. Furthermore, our study highlights the propensity of amphibian species “hidden in plain sight,” even among recently studied taxa, thus calling for caution when specifying type specimens—the type series of K. indochinensis, described in 2013, includes specimens of the one of the new species. Our study emphasizes the continued need for thorough herpetological surveys even in supposedly well-known parts of Indochina and sets the ground for future research in Kaloula painted frogs, notably to test evolutionary and taxonomic hypotheses with genomic loci.

Abstract Background Saphenous vein graft percutaneous coronary intervention (SVG PCI) following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is commonly used procedure for patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Emerging evidence suggests gender-based differences influencing SVG intervention clinical outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the impact of gender and various patient characteristics, procedural intricacies, anatomical considerations, and perioperative factors as potential risk determinants for SVG failure post-CABG surgery. Methods A retrospective, single-center, analysis was conducted on post-CABG patients at Barzilai Medical Center Ashkelon from 2010 to 2023 to assess gender-based differences in SVG PCI incidence. Results Of the 72 ACS patients undergoing SVG PCI, a notably higher incidence was observed in men. However, graft failure occurred earlier in women compared to men (13.50 ± 6.59 SD years vs. 22.13 ± 5.66 SD years). Women exhibited a 1.2 times higher likelihood of earlier PCI than men (OR 1.24 CI 1.077 to 1.487, p = 0.0066) after adjusting for age, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Conclusion Gender differences in the incidence of SVG PCI and graft failure denote the need for gender-tailored follow-up and early intervention to optimize graft patency and potentially enhance long-term clinical outcomes. Integrating gender-specific approaches into post-CABG management could significantly improve patient care and prognosis.

Urinary bladder leiomyoma is an extremely rare type of benign urinary bladder formation. So according to the literature, only 250 cases of pathology are known. The article presents a clinical case of a rare clinical observation of a benign tumor originating from the urinary bladder smooth muscle. Successful treatment is described.

The article describes peculiarities of modern understanding of the nature and treatment of the rigid person syndrome. Baclofen, a GABA-B agonist, is one of the drugs of choice for the treatment of this condition. However, its oral use has little efficacy and leads to a number of complications. An indisputable alternative to oral administration of the drug at present is its continuous intrathecal administration using an implantable pump. A case of cryptogenic rigidity syndrome accompanied by the development of a depressive state is presented. In the process of treatment by intrathecal baclofen therapy, not only excruciating muscle spasms disappeared, but also depressive symptomatology without special use of antidepressants.The purpose of the study. To show the high effectiveness of ITT in a patient with a severe cryptogenic form of CRS, as well as the effect of OT, not only on spasticity, but also on depressive symptoms.Material and methods. A case of treatment by the ITB method with implantation of a pump to a patient with a cryptogenic form of HPV is presented. A modified Ashworth scale (MAS) was used to assess spasticity. The patient’s quality of life was assessed on the Barthel scale. The Hamilton scale was used to assess the level of depression.

Aim: The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of rechallenge with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) compared to chemotherapy and the predictive role of clinical parameters in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who were rechallenged. Methods: The study included 113 metastatic NSCLC patients who had initially responded to ICIs and platinum-based chemotherapy, either in combination in the first line or sequentially in the first and second line, but later experienced disease progression. Of those patients, 52 later received ICI rechallenge and 61 were exposed to chemotherapy. Results: In the rechallenge cohort, the median age was 67 years, 38 patients were men (73.1%), 26 (50.0%) had squamous cell carcinoma. Patients who underwent ICI rechallenge had longer overall survival (OS) compared to those who received chemotherapy (12.9 months vs. 9.6 months, P = 0.008). Multivariate analysis for progression-free survival (PFS) and OS revealed that poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS; PFS: P = 0.013 and OS: P = 0.037), absence of objective response during initial ICI therapy (PFS: P = 0.014 and OS: P = 0.028), and baseline neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) ≥ 3.8 (PFS: P = 0.001 and OS: P = 0.003) were negative predictive factors of ICI rechallenge. The three parameters were included in a risk model named as the NEO score, which stratified patients who received ICI rechallenge into two predictive groups. Patients with ECOG PS 0-1, objective response during initial ICI treatment, and NLR < 3.8 (favorable group) had longer PFS (8.6 months vs. 3.0 months, P < 0.001) and OS (16.6 months vs. 5.5 months, P < 0.001) compared to those with absence of all three markers (poor group). There was no association between the NEO score and survival outcomes in patients who did not undergo rechallenge. Conclusions: ICI rechallenge showed a survival benefit, particularly in NSCLC patients with NLR < 3.8, good ECOG PS, and objective response.

Aim: to analyze the results of surgical treatment of patients with ruptured arterial aneurysms in the presence of occlusive-stenotic lesions of cerebral arteries and to evaluate the impact of combined lesions on the choice of surgical treatment method. Materials and methods. A retrospective study was conducted on the medical histories of patients with aneurysmal disease of cerebral arteries from 2006 to 2022. The main group consisted of 63 patients with occlusive-stenotic lesions of cerebral arteries who underwent surgery for ruptured arterial aneurysm. The comparison group included 63 patients without occlusive-stenotic lesions. The analysis included an assessment of neurological status, examination results, and statistical data processing. Results. Occlusive-stenotic lesions of the head and neck arteries were more frequently observed in men, the maximum difference in age was found at a stenosis of 50–75 % (men – 48.30 ± 2.51 years; women – 62.00 ± 5.06 years, p < 0.01). Cerebral artery stenosis was more commonly observed in cases of ruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysms. The main group had more fatal cases (n = 5) compared to the comparison group (n = 2), p = 0.25. Conclusions. Ruptured arterial aneurysms are more frequently diagnosed in the presence of middle cerebral artery stenosis (p < 0.05). Ruptured aneurysms in patients with occlusive-stenotic lesions of cerebral arteries are more often diagnosed in middle age (p = 0.0001). The combination of stenosis and aneurysm complicates the disease course and affects the choice of surgical method. Patients with combined lesions have a higher risk of ischemic complications (p = 0.03). The greatest life risks arise from ruptured arterial aneurysms in men with concomitant arterial stenosis. The main risk factors are occlusive-stenotic lesions of the arteries, recurrent hemorrhages, and large intracranial hemorrhages.

Aim – assessment of the effectiveness of complex therapy to reduce the development of early cardiovascular complications. Materials and methods. Information from medical histories and outpatient follow-up cards of 139 patients with invasive breast cancer was analyzed: in the G.V. Bondar Republican Cancer Center 64 patients (main and control groups); as an additional comparison group, the study included 75 patients of the Samara Regional Clinical Oncology Dispensary. Patients in the control group (33 people) and the Samara Regional Clinical Oncology Dispensary group (75 people) received standard therapy (RUSSCO, recommendations, 2023): doxorubicin 60 mg/m2 IV on day 1 + cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2 IV on day 1 Day 4 – 4 courses. In 31 patients of the main observation group, in addition to similar drug treatment, in order to prevent the development of early cardiovascular complications, the method was used, which included 7 courses before the start of 1 cycle of chemotherapy + 3 courses of interval normobaric hypoxic therapy (INHT) before the start of each subsequent cycle of chemotherapy. Results. When analyzing the total effectiveness of treatment between the groups of patients, statistically significant differences were obtained: the control and main groups were compared (χ2=5.4, p=0.03), the group of the Samara Regional Clinical Oncology Dispensary group and the main group (χ2=3.45, p=0.076). Conclusions. Hypoxic therapy significantly affects the quality of life of patients. For all indicators reflecting quality of life, traditional treatment was inferior to combination drug therapy with INHT.

The automation of work processes and seamless integration with various business services highlight the essential role of digital document management systems (DMS) in enhancing organizational flexibility, productivity, and adaptability. DMS serve as centralized repositories that streamline, automate, and interconnect business processes, thereby facilitating effective document management. The integration of DMS with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems provides a comprehensive solution for optimizing business workflows, addressing the needs for both operational efficiency and strategic management. The research paper delineates a business model for the life cycle management of electronic documents and records, focusing on the integration of processes such as document creation, management, approval, and secure distribution. This integrated approach enhances organizational structure, optimizes processes, and bolsters security, leading to significant cost reductions and increased work efficiency. The model emphasizes the importance of streamlined and automated document workflows in reducing manual errors and operational bottlenecks. Key features of DMS include advanced mechanisms for digitizing physical documents, ensuring that all data is captured accurately and efficiently. Centralized storage with version control allows for easy retrieval and management of documents, ensuring that the latest versions are always accessible. Additionally, advanced search and accessibility features enable quick and efficient document retrieval, which is crucial for maintaining high productivity levels. The study underscores the pivotal role of DMS in modern enterprises, advocating their implementation as a strategic move to drive operational excellence and competitive advantage. By integrating DMS with ERP systems, businesses can achieve a cohesive and efficient operational environment that supports both day-to-day activities and long-term strategic goals. This comprehensive approach to document management not only optimizes efficiency and reduces errors but also enhances the overall agility and responsiveness of the organization in a rapidly changing economic environment.

Short-term reductions in social welfare, expected to be caused by a currently imposed carbon tax, are among the obstacles to a rapid transition to a low-carbon economy. Using an extended DICE model, we studied the potential of green bonds to both accelerate this transition and smoothen welfare losses and gains in a socially optimal way. We showed that green bonds can indeed accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and that lower interest rates on bonds speed up this acceleration. Moreover, bonds can reduce short-term welfare losses; however, to eliminate welfare losses, additional compensation mechanisms are needed. For example, bonds at a 3% interest rate can decrease the peak atmospheric carbon concentrations by about 20% and shorten the initial time, during which society is worse off from 75 to 45 years. Retaining at least the same consumption level as in the no-mitigation scenario, without using bonds, is possible only through a decrease in abatement efforts. Green bonds of sufficiently low interest rates allow improving intertemporal welfare as well as achieving a more pronounced climate change mitigation with respect to both mitigation and no-mitigation scenarios without bonds.

The article analyzes the historical stages of the development of the international taxation system, paying special attention to the role of transfer pricing. The evolution of rules, tools, and methods of combating aggressive tax planning, in particular transfer pricing, is considered. The analysis of changes in the approaches to erosion of the tax base and profit shifting by transnational corporations and the corresponding reactions of international organizations and national tax authorities to the prevention of transfer pricing has been carried out. The prerequisites for the emergence and effectiveness of modern approaches in combating transfer pricing, including the OERS project on the erosion of the tax base and profit shifting (BEPS) and the Two-Pillar Solution, have been studied. The article highlights the disproportion of the international taxation system with the modern challenges of the digital economy. The rapid development of digital technologies gives rise to new forms of business that are difficult to adapt to the existing tax framework. Problems related to determining the location of profits in the digital environment and calculating fair taxation for multinational corporations are becoming obstacles to achieving a balance in the international tax system. The fiscal consequences and impact on international trade and the distribution of tax revenues are analyzed. The article highlights the key trends and challenges that determine the effectiveness and sustainability of the modern international taxation system in the conditions of globalization and the digital economy.

Introduction. For handling the problem of mixtures design for additive construction technologies, the paper presents the results of experimental studies of rheological behavior and production characteristics (plasticity and shape stability) of cement mixtures based on various types of fillers with different size, shape, and grade. Methods and materials. Rheological properties of 3Dprintable mixtures were investigated using squeezing rheometry methods. The constant strain rate mode of 5 mm/s was used to evaluate plasticity and the constant load rate of 5 N/s was used to evaluate form stability. Scanning electron microscopy method (Phenom XL) was used to evaluate the size-geometry characteristics of cement and filler particles. Image processing to determine particle length and width was performed using ParticleMetric software. The size and gradation of the cement and filler particles were evaluated using a laser particle size analyser “Analyzette 22”. Results and discussion. It was found that a necessary condition for the plasticity and stability of mixtures is the creation of dense spatial packing of disperse phase particles. The values of the plasticity limit rational for extrusion are ensured if the filler particles have a size comparable to cement particles and multi-size gradation. The characteristics of the fillers are not decisive for the shape stability of the mixtures. Conclusion. The numerical criteria of fillers for design of 3D-printable mixtures have been substantiated, including mean average particle diameter, particle shape factor, particle distribution constant as a characteristic of the particle size gradation.

Background: Breakthrough neurotechnologies have allowed for new understanding of some brain disorders; however, identification and differential diagnosis of intracranial stenotic and occlusive lesions remains challenging. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) is a tool that could be used for the quantitative assessment of endothelial permeability and microvascular volume in atherosclerotic plaques (AP). Aim: To assess quantitative parameters of vascular wall abnormalities in AP area and in obviously unchanged wall of intracranial arteries with MRI DCE and high spatial resolution Т1-weighed images before and after contrast injection, with calculation of the wall enhancement index (WEI) by mathematical modelling. Methods: This was a pilot cross-sectional uncontrolled study with consecutive recruitment of 29 patients with atherosclerotic abnormalities of brachiocephalic arteries, including intracranial. The patients’ median age was 66 [57; 72] years; they were mostly men (75.9%, n = 22). For the assessment of any brain abnormalities, MRI (magnetic induction 3 Tesla, Magnetom Prisma, Siemens) was performed in patients with standard sequence (Т2, T2-FLAIR), as well as MRI DCE for the assessment of intracranial arteries, before and after intravenous contrast injection, with high spatial resolution T1-weighed imaging and suppression of the signal from bloodstream and fat, with the calculation of WEI. Results: There were significant differences in WEI in AP and in unchanged wall (0.962 [0.686; 1.387] vs. 0.111 [0.014; 0.206], p 0.001). No significant differences were found between WEI values in internal carotid arteries APs (0.722 [0.573; 1.580]), middle cerebral arteries (0.921 [0.725; 1.183]), and basilar artery (1.343 [1.002; 1.419]) (p = 0.381). We also found significant difference (p = 0.034) in the extravascular extracellular fraction volumes ve (Tofts) in AP located in the basilar artery (0.171 [0.146; 0.325]), internal carotid arteries (0.579 [0.358; 1.000]), and middle cerebral arteries (0.134 [0.101; 0.269]). Conclusion: This is the first description of quantitative parameters characterizing vascular wall abnormalities in intracranial atherosclerosis. Despite its obviously intact state, vascular walls outside the intracranial AP was shown to be abnormal as well.

Abstract Deformation mechanisms of crystalline solids has been the subject of research for more than two centuries. The theory of dislocations dominates modern views but still has significant gaps demanding the introduction of additional concepts for the coherent quantitative description of physical phenomena. In this work, we propose a coherent geometric description of motion and deformation in crystalline solids as piecewise isometric transformations (PWIT). The latter only includes operations that, similar to interatomic spacing in crystalline lattice, do not alter distances between reference points, i.e. translations, rotations and mirror reflections. The difference between solid-body translations and plastic deformations is that the isometric transformations have discontinuities that in real-life materials realise through dislocations (termination of shifts), disclinations (termination of rotations), and twins (mirror reflections). The conceptual description of plastic deformations as PWIT can be useful for the better description of physical phenomena, proposing new hypothesis, and for developing predictive analytical models. In this paper, the use of this conceptual description enables proposing new hypothesis about the nature of such interesting phenomena in severe plastic deformation as (i) stationary ‘solid state turbulence’ stage in high pressure torsion, and (ii) rate of mass transfer (mechanically assisted diffusion) in simple-shear deformation.

The goal of this note is to study integrable properties of a generating function of the HOMFLY-PT invariants of the Hopf link colored with different representations. We demonstrate that such a generating function is a τ-function of the KP hierarchy. Furthermore, this Hopf generating function in the case of composite representations, which is a generating function of the 4-point functions in topological string (corresponding to the resolved conifold with branes on the four external legs), is a τ-function of the universal character (UC) hierarchy put on the topological locus. We also briefly discuss a simple matrix model associated with the UC hierarchy.

Abstract Topological insulator nanostructures became an essential platform for studying novel fundamental effects emerging at the nanoscale. However, conventional nanopatterning techniques, based on electron beam lithography and reactive ion etching of films, have inherent limitations of edge precision, resolution, and modification of surface properties, all of which are critical factors for topological insulator materials. In this study, an alternative approach for the fabrication of ultrathin Bi2Se3 nanoribbons is introduced by utilizing a diamond tip of an atomic force microscope (AFM) to cut atomically thin exfoliated films. This study includes an investigation of the magnetotransport properties of ultrathin Bi2Se3 topological insulator nanoribbons with controlled cross‐sections at ultra‐low 14 mK) temperatures. Current‐dependent magnetoresistance oscillations are observed with the weak antilocalization effect, confirming the coherent propagation of 2D electrons around the nanoribbon surface's perimeter and the robustness of topologically protected surface states. In contrast to conventional lithography methods, this approach does not require a highly controlled clean room environment and can be executed under ambient conditions. Importantly, this method facilitates the precise patterning and can be applied to a wide range of 2D materials.

Introduction: The algorithm of multimodal treatment (MMT) of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) combined with intent-to-cure and presurgery embolization benefits was developed. The aim was to analyze the effectiveness of the MMT compared with unimodal intent-to-cure embolization in patient groups matched concerning clinical and angiographic characteristics.

Peripheral nerve sheaths tumors (PNST) account for about 8 % of all nervous system cancers. The relapse rate ranges from 17.3 to 26.4 %, showing an upward trend. The causes and provoking factors for the development of relapses of PNST have not been fully studied. Purpose of the study: to establish criteria for predicting recurrence of PNST. Material and Methods. The study included 122 patients who were treated at the Department of Spine and Peripheral Nerve Surgery of A.I. Polenov Russian Research Neurosurgical Institute from 2009 to 2021. Among them, there were 87 (71.3 %) patients with primary PNST and 35 (28.7 %) patients with recurrent PNST. All patients underwent MRI and ENMG both before and after surgery. An immunohistochemical study of Ki67 and SO X10 markers was performed. Results. The majority of relapses occured within 1 year after surgery. In cases with radical removal of PNST, the risk of relapse was: 28.6 % for schwannomas 28.6 %, 37.1 % for neurofibromas and 34.3 % for MP NST 34.3 % (p≥0.05). The risk of developing relapse of PNST was 2.9 times higher in patients aged ≥49 years than in patients aged ≤48 years (p

The significance of the research topic is predetermined by the importance of Caliphatism as a phenomenon of social thought in the history of Islam. The purpose of this study is to analyze the regional specifics of the perception of the institution of Caliphal power in the center and on the periphery of the Islamic world during the First World War (1914-1918). The military failures of the Ottoman Empire and the triumph of the Western colonial powers forced Muslim thinkers to redefine the idea of the community ( ummah ) as a form of spiritual and political unification of the adherents of Islam. The authors focused on the ongoing discussions about the opportunities for Islamic unity and the prospects of the Caliphate in the changing conditions of world geopolitics. The original models of the “Arab Caliphate” and the “Ottoman Caliphate”, later opposed by the Caliphatists to the ideas of secular statehood, manifested themselves in the meaningful ideological dialogue between the defenders and opponents of the Ottoman government. Based on historical sources, the authors analyzed the intellectual work and political positions of Muhammad Rashid Rida (1865-1935), Ali Bash Hamba (1876-1918), Abdul Kalam Azad (1888-1958) and identified the eclectic nature of their ideological and political reactions to the weakening of the power of the Ottoman Sultan-Caliph. It is proved that the specific features of the traditional political culture of the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia have become a decisive factor that led to a different interpretation of the tasks of the Caliphate in the main areas of Islam. In addition, the nature and mechanisms of the influence of the Ottoman intelligence services on the development of the philosophical and ideological justification of the Caliphal power among Muslim intellectuals have been clarified.

Introduction. Anti-PD-1 immunotherapy (IT) is becoming the standard treatment for patients with metastatic melanoma. However, immune checkpoint inhibitors are only effective in a fraction of patients, and studies examining biological markers and their correlation with clinical efficacy are insufficient to draw unambiguous conclusions. Aim. To improve the outcomes of the first-line therapy for disseminated melanoma based on identifying clinical and immunohistochemical predictors of IT efficacy. Materials and methods. Data from 130 patients who were treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (nivolumab or prolgolimab) in the first-line therapy for disseminated melanoma between 2017 and 2024 were analyzed. Results. Improvement was observed in 24 patients (18.4%): complete response in 18 patients (13.8%), partial response in 6 (4.6%), and stabilization in 71 (54.6%) patients. Progression was reported in 31 (24%) patients. Death occurred in 4 (3%) cases during IT with prolgolimab due to disease progression. The two-year disease-free survival (DFS) during IT was 53% (95% confidence interval [CI] 42–67), p=0.63; the median 2-year overall survival was not reached. In the immunohistochemical study, 47 (63.5%) patients had a predominance of tumor infiltration with CD8 lymphocytes over CD4, regardless of the IT type: 2-year DFS 82% (95% CI 70–96) vs 13% (95% CI 2.7–64) in the absence of CD8 predominance over CD4, p=0.0001; the median DFS was not reached in patients with the predominance of CD8 lymphocytes tumor infiltration over CD4 compared to the other group – 7.6 months in the absence of this feature (95% CI 5.8–0), p=0.001. The peritumoral location of the immune lymphoid infiltrate was observed in all 74 (100%) patients, and the intratumoral location was less common (52 patients, 70%). In the presence of both periand intratumoral location of the immune infiltrate, the 2-year DFS was 83% (95% CI 70–98) compared to the group of patients in whom no intratumoral location was detected – 5.5% (95% CI 0.8–36), p0.0001. The expression of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) level 10% was observed in 47 (63.5%) patients. With this level of PD-L1 expression, the one-year DFS was 91% (95% CI 83–100) compared to 29% (95% CI 15–57) with a lower level of PD-L1 expression, p0.0001; the median DFS is reached, and in the group 2, DFS was only 6.6 months. In the case of PD-L110%, the 2-year DFS was high at 78% (95% CI 63–100), p0.0001. Conclusion. Based on the study's results, it can be assumed that immunohistochemical characteristics such as a PD-L1 expression level 10%, the simultaneous presence of periand intratumoral lymphoid tumor infiltration, and the predominance of CD8 over CD4 can be considered predictors of IT efficacy with nivolumab and prolgolimab.

BACKGROUND: Increased glucose variability is recognized as a risk factor for vascular diabetic complications. It is assumed that deteriorating effect of GV on blood vessels can be realized through the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways.AIM: to determine associations of low-grade inflammation markers and serum cytokines with time in ranges and GV parameters derived from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D).MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 470 adult patients with T1D, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and fibrinogen was measured, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the Systemic Immune-inflammation Index (SII) were calculated. In a sample of 130 patients and 20 healthy individuals (control), serum concentrations of interleukins (IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, sIL-6Rα, IL-19, IL-20, IL-22, IL-26, IL-27, IL-28A, IL-29, IL-32, IL-34, IL-35) were assessed by multiplex analysis. Time in the ranges and GV parameters: Coefficient of Variability (CV), Mean Amplitude of Glycemic Excursions (MAGE), and Mean Absolute Glucose rate of changes (MAG) were derived from CGM data.RESULTS: Patients with Time In Range (TIR) 70% had higher levels of IL-4 (p=0.02) as well as lower concentrations of IL-1β (p=0.0003) and IL-6 (p=0.007) than patients with TIR≤70%. In a multivariate stepwise regression analysis including clinical data and CGM parameters as independent variables, body mass index was positive predictor of hsCRP and fibrinogen levels, TIR was negatively associated with IL-20 and IL-34, time above range was associated positively with IL-1β, MAGE showed positive association with SII, IL-26 and IL28A, while MAG was positively associated with IL-29.CONCLUSION: T1D patients with non-target TIR (70%. Both hyperglycemia and increased GV are associated with intensity of low-grade inflammation in T1D.

Cross or transverse testicular ectopia is a rare congenital condition of the reproductive system that involves the migration of a testicle into the opposite inguinal canal, along with the presence of an inguinal hernia on the same side as the ectopic testicle. In the modern literature, there are discussions about diagnostic issues, particularly the use of ultrasound scanning and magnetic resonance imaging to diagnose this condition. However, it is the results of laparoscopic examination that determine the most accurate criteria for surgical treatment. Many publications discuss the choice of surgical tactics, including separate transabdominal orchiopexy, with or without laparoscopic assistance; transeptal orchiopexy on both sides of the scrotum; and rare cases of orchiopexy for both testicles on one side of the scrotum. Ultimately, the choice of surgery depends on the individual characteristics and needs of the patient, and the surgeon should make the decision based on these factors. The article describes, for the first time, a case of familial testicular ectopia with bilateral inguinal hernia in siblings who underwent surgery using laparoscopic assistance. The method used was single-trocar laparoscopic access with transscrotal transeptal orchiopexy and simultaneous bilateral puncture of the inguinal ring and suture. During the long-term follow-up period (50 and 20 months after surgery) in both siblings, there were no signs of malformation or atrophy of the gonads.

The reed snakes of the genus Calamaria Boie, 1827 are one of the largest groups of Asian snakes, distributed from northeast India to the Maluku Islands of east Indonesia. Recent research on the genus in China has revealed that the species diversity of the group was underestimated. In this study, morphological comparisons and mitochondrial DNA analysis revealed that a junior synonym of C. pavimentata Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854 — Calamaria berezowskii Günther, 1896 is valid, hence we redescribed and recovered the validity of C. berezowskii. This species can be distinguished from other congeners by the combination of the following characters: four supralabials; one preocular; rostral shield width larger than height; mental not touching anterior chin shields; eye diameter less than the distance from eye to mouth edge; less than 1/2 of the posterior chin shield meets in the midline; dorsal scales reduced to six rows at tail; indistinct light ring present in the nuchal region or a more or less distinct yellowish collar. Phylogenetically, this species is sister to C. pavimentata, with significant genetic differences (0.190) on mitochondrial gene Cyt b.

The article is devoted to the development of a criminological model of firearms trafficking control in the context of transitional justice for Ukraine. It is established that illicit firearms trafficking lays down long-term trends of deterioration of the criminogenic situation, including in the post-war period, and in the future threatens to strengthen the functionality of organised criminal groups and a surge in violent criminal activity. The article proposes a criminological model for establishing control over firearms circulation which provides for: 1) preservation of the existing legal regime of firearms circulation for civilians until the end of the armed conflict and the legal regime of martial law; after the lifting of martial law, a balanced legalisation of civilian (short-barreled) weapons with strict control, verification and constant monitoring is required; 2) for military personnel (including those discharged from service): a) a special type of exemption from criminal liability under Articles 263 and 410 (regarding misappropriation of firearms, ammunition, explosives or other munitions) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, subject to presentation for inspection, registration and issuance of a permit (de lege ferenda); b) obtaining a permit (de lege ferenda) for storage of firearms (in the amount of no more than one unit per person) and ammunition (in the amount of no more than 60 pieces); 3) criminal liability for violation of the conditions of the permit to keep and carry firearms. It is concluded that the enhancement of criminal liability for the illegal acquisition, transfer or sale of firearms, ammunition, explosives or explosive devices under martial law or a state of emergency is an example of excessive criminalisation of socially dangerous acts. Law enforcement agencies, by complying with the requirements on the general principles of sentencing (Article 65, paragraph 11, part 1, Article 67 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine), have sufficiently effective tools to assess and take into account the degree of social danger of various manifestations of illegal handling of weapons. The proposal is to supplement the disposition of Part 1 of Art. 263 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine with an indication of such an object of a criminal offence as a constructive part of a firearm, setting it out in the following wording: “Carrying, storing, purchasing, transferring or selling firearms or their constructive parts (except for smooth-bore hunting rifles and their constructive parts), ammunition, explosives or explosive devices without a permit provided for by law – …”.

The management of lung cancer (LC) requires the analysis of a diverse spectrum of molecular targets, including kinase activating mutations in EGFR, ERBB2 (HER2), BRAF and MET oncogenes, KRAS G12C substitutions, and ALK, ROS1, RET and NTRK1-3 gene fusions. Administration of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is based on the immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis of PD-L1 expression and determination of tumor mutation burden (TMB). Clinical characteristics of the patients, particularly age, gender and smoking history, significantly influence the probability of finding the above targets: for example, LC in young patients is characterized by high frequency of kinase gene rearrangements, while heavy smokers often have KRAS G12C mutations and/or high TMB. Proper selection of first-line therapy influences overall treatment outcomes, therefore, the majority of these tests need to be completed within no more than 10 working days. Activating events in MAPK signaling pathway are mutually exclusive, hence, fast single-gene testing remains an option for some laboratories. RNA next-generation sequencing (NGS) is capable of detecting the entire repertoire of druggable gene alterations, therefore it is gradually becoming a dominating technology in LC molecular diagnosis.

Systemic chemotherapy is the main treatment option for patients with advanced intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), however, its efficacy is limited. Herein, we report a young patient with NRAS-mutated chemoresistant metastatic iCCA, who received second-line therapy with a combination of trametinib (MEK1/2 inhibitor), hydroxychloroquine (autophagy inhibitor), and bevacizumab (angiogenesis inhibitor). A significant response was achieved during therapy, resulting in a 25% decrease in the size of tumor lesions after 2 months of treatment and an improvement in the patient’s condition. The duration of this response was 4 months, but the patient died 10 months after the initiation of this triple therapy. This case report and the analysis of other available studies warrant further investigations on combined MEK and autophagy inhibition in RAS-mutated tumors.

Research on the modern distribution of 137Cs in soils of different forest site types in black alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaerth.) stands was conducted. In forest litter, there is not a high percentage of its total activity in soil: in moist fairly fertile site type (C3) – 13.4 %, damp fairly fertile site type (C4) – 16.3 %, and wet fairly fertile site type (C5) – 3.8 %. The mineral part of the soil in moist and damp fairly fertile site type is characterized by decreased density of radioactive contamination of soil layers with depth. In wet fairly fertile site type, this indicator increases to a depth of 6 - 8 cm and decreases with further deepening. A 10-cm layer of moist fairly fertile site type (C3) contains 61.8 % of the total radionuclide activity in soil, damp fairly fertile site type (C4) – 68.1%, and wet fairly fertile site type (C5) – 70.1 %, correspondingly; a 20-cm layer has 75.4, 78.3, 91.9 % and a 30-cm layer – 80.9, 82.2, 96.0 % of the total radionuclide activity.

Objective – to determine the effect of occlusive-stenotic lesions of cerebral arteries on angiospasm and ischemic complications in patients with ruptured arterial aneurysms against the background of occlusive-stenotic lesions of cerebral arteries. Materials and methods. A retrospective study of the medical histories of 1,147 patients with cerebral artery aneurysms from 2006 to 2022 was conducted. 63 patients were included in the study group because they met the following criteria: surgical treatment; rupture of saccular aneurysms (SAs); the presence of occlusive-stenotic lesions was proven using instrumental examination methods. Patients of the control group had to meet the following criteria: surgical treatment; rupture of SAs; the absence of occlusive-stenotic lesions was proven by means of instrumental examination methods; the gender and age distribution had to match the study group. Of the 126 patients included in this study, there were 76 men (60.32%) and 50 women (39.68%). The age of the patients varied from 31 to 77 years. The average age of patients- 55.9±0.76 years; men – 54.3±0.94 years, women – 58.3±1.19 years. Results. A percentage predominance of patients with high cerebral blood flow velocity (>200 cm/s, which is equal to the velocity with severe grade III vasospasm of the cerebral arteries) in the study group (32.56%) compared with the control group (24.24%) was revealed. Conclusions. The predominance of men among patients of the study group (60.32%) was established. The average age of men with occlusive-stenotic lesions was younger than that of women (men – 54.3±0.94 years, women – 58.3±1.19 years). The difference in age is the largest in the 2nd subgroup of the study group where the severity of stenosis is 50-75% (men - 48.3 years; women - 62 years). Ruptures of arterial aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery occur more often in the presence of stenoses (study group - 25.4%, control group - 12.7%). The neurological status of patients with a hemorrhagic stroke, as a result of the rupture of an arterial aneurysm, is significantly aggravated by occlusive-stenotic lesions due to the occurrence of chronic brain ischemia. The worst prognosis for life and health was in men with a ruptured arterial aneurysm against the background of a 50-75% stenotic lesion and severe vasospasm of the cerebral arteries.

The paper studies the optimization features of low-voltage electrical network modes for energy-efficient power transmission. The main features of these networks are the high values of the zero-sequence voltage unbalance factor and the mismatch of voltage values with the necessary requirements. Therefore, balancing the loads by phases and reactive power compensation are chosen as measures to improve the listed network parameters. One of the main factors for the effective solution of this problem is the determination of load balancing points and reactive power compensation, as well as the required power of the devices used. To solve the multicriteria problem of determining device connection points, an analysis of existing objective functions is carried out. As a result, a target function is proposed that includes costs, voltage losses, zero-sequence voltage asymmetry coefficient. When solving the optimization problem with the help of the proposed objective function, the voltage values and the voltage asymmetry factor at the consumer connection points will be within the required limits. The results of a study of the optimization function using the example of a model network are presented. The calculations are carried out in two stages: the search for sensor's nodes, then their study for optimality. All calculations are carried out in the MATLAB environment, taking into account voltage losses and power.

THE OBJECTIVE was to analyze the development of chronic pain syndrome after performing standardized Lichtenstein hernioplasty.METHODS AND MATERIALS. The prospective single-center study was conducted with 40 patients with inguinal hernias (20 patients in the study group and 20 patients in the control group) who underwent Lichtenstein hernioplasty with adherence to standardization criteria and without. The comparative analysis of the early and long-term postoperative periods was performed.RESULTS. When comparing the early and long-term postoperative periods in patients after standardized Lichtenstein hernioplasty, the following data were obtained: pain syndrome according to the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was less pronounced after applying standardization criteria (p < 0.001), and statistically significantly lower number of complications (seroma, paresthesia) developed (p=0.045, p=0.019). In the group of patients who underwent standardized Lichtenstein hernioplasty, chronic pain syndrome was not observed in the long-term postoperative period (p < 0.001).CONCLUSIONS. Prevention of chronic postoperative pain syndrome after hernioplasty using the Lichtenstein method is the significant issue. This article emphasizes the importance of considering various factors and implementing preventive strategies to minimize the risk of this complication and ensure optimal surgical outcomes.

Background. The study of drug availability for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) represents one of the priority tasks in the organization of effective counteraction to COPD in the Russian Federation.Objective: to assess drug prices, affordability, and availability for COPD patients.Material and methods. The analysis of drug availability for COPD patients was carried out according to the methodology of the World Health Organization and Health Action International (WHO/HAI). Bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory therapy of originator brands and lowestpriced generics was evaluated. The consumption volume of the studied drugs was also analyzed using the ATC/DDD (Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification / defined daily dose) pharmacoepidemiologic methodology over a three-year period (from 2020 to 2022), taking into account their share of total DDD (drug utilization analysis, DU90%).Results. According to the results of DU90% analysis, the most purchased drugs for bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory therapy for all the years under study were drugs from the groups of short-acting bronchodilators (salbutamol, fenoterol, ipratropium bromide + fenoterol) and inhaled glucocorticoids (budesonide, beclomethasone). The obtained data were confirmed by the results of the physical availability study. Thus, the highest percentage of physical availability was for short-acting inhaled beta-2-agonists (SABA) (salbutamol). Analysis of drug affordability also revealed a tendential superiority of SABA and short-acting anticholinergics over baseline bronchodilators and antiinflammatory drugs.Conclusion. Low affordability of the main drugs of baseline therapy contributes to the burden of COPD and necessitates improvement of drug supply mechanisms for individuals, especially those with low material income, which in the long term will significantly reduce the costs of the healthcare system for the treatment of these patients by decreasing the severity and frequency of exacerbations.

Abstract Background The transition to energy-sustainable systems is a globally accepted concept, but it is implemented with various degrees of success around the world. The aim of this paper is to determine the status of green transition in five Central Asian countries (Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and the Kyrgyz Republic) that are among the highest energy consumers globally and the most vulnerable to climate change. Despite a notable improvement in living conditions across all countries over the past two decades, the region remains underdeveloped. Economic growth is based on the export of natural resources and remittance inflows, but the structure of the economy is monolithic. Main findings Upon analysing transition indicators for the period 2000–2020, no evidence of significant changes towards a sustainable energy transition is found. All countries in the region (except Uzbekistan) have recorded an increase in carbon emissions, while the carbon intensity of the energy mix is almost the same. While there has been visible progress in reducing energy intensity, the countries in the region remain among the most energy-intensive economies. Despite the region’s substantial potential for renewable energy production, it remains underutilized. Conclusions A multitude of varied problems accompanies the green transition in Central Asian countries. The energy market that has not yet been liberalised, along with significant subsidies and low energy tariffs, discourages investments in renewable energy sources and energy efficiency initiatives. A high level of corruption, rigid legislative and institutional infrastructure, and insufficient capital are additional factors that determine the speed, scope, and effectiveness of the green transition. Thus far, the primary focus in these countries has been on ensuring energy security. However, there has been a discernible surge in investments (particularly from China) in renewable energy projects. Although energy efficiency and climate change issues are formally defined, the energy transition goals are often declarative without an action plan that provides concrete steps in transition process. Strategic planing of economic development that includes all related sectors (not only the energy sector) and paying attention to socio-economic and environmental indicators of sustainable development are prerequisites for successfully implementating the energy transition in these countries.

The article explores the analytical challenges and potential applications of diagnostic equipment and tools for cost-effective restoration of aging pressure pipeline systems at minimum costs for water transportation. The study focuses on a section of a water supply network made of steel pipes that requires repair and restoration due to corrosion damage and wall thinning. The paper presents an analysis of effective non-destructive pipeline diagnostic methods, details the design and technical specifications of the domestic diagnostic system HeatScan. Provided are sample magnetograms that indicate defect zones and the absolute residual wall thickness at the defect locations. The benefits of the HeatScan system over the Inspector Systems flaw detector are also shown. To identify the most cost-effective pipeline repair method, three alternative technologies for inserting polymer pipes into the existing pipeline are considered, along with a calculation of the energy consumption for water transportation. It is noted that the most cost-efficient repair method could be the Swagelining technology, which involves pre-compressing the polymer pipe with the subsequent straightening. Information on the return-on-investment period for the diagnostic system when used in pipeline restoration projects is provided.

This study presents a novel cost-effective Fe30Ni25Cr25Mo10Al10 high-entropy alloy with a dual-phase microstructure that was processed using cyclic closed-die forging (CCDF) at room temperature for a maximum of six passes. The as-homogenized alloy exhibited [CrMoFe]-rich dendrites with dual-size morphology dispersed in an almost uniform face-centered cubic (FCC) matrix. It was found that as the number of CCDF passes increased, leading to a more homogenous nanograin, there was an accumulation of dislocations, fragmentation of [CrMoFe]-rich dendrites, and enhanced distribution within the matrix. These conditions were conducive to the creation of a nanostructured Fe30Ni25Cr25Mo10Al10 alloy with superior mechanical properties. Texture analysis indicated that the prominent texture components for the Fe30Ni25Cr25Mo10Al10 alloy after six passes were Rotated Cube {001}, S {123}, and Dillamore {4 4 11}. After the sixth CCDF pass, the Fe30Ni25Cr25Mo10Al10 alloy exhibited the highest microhardness (∼ 974 HV) and the lowest wear rate (∼ (0.8 ± 0.1) × 10–5 mm3.N−1.m−1). Additionally, it was proposed that the development of the Rotated Cube {001} texture component contributed positively to enhancing wear resistance in the cost-effective high-entropy alloys. Considering the obtained results, it is reasonable to propose that CCDF processing is significant potential for the advancement of cost-effective nanostructured high-entropy alloys for industrial applications.

Atherosclerosis is the mechanistic basis of cardiovascular disorders manifested by damage to the walls of the aorta, coronary, cerebral and peripheral arteries, leading to the development of acute or chronic ischemia of internal organs and tissues. This publication describes a case of spontaneous atherosclerotic lesion of the aorta with the formation of a dissecting aneurysm in an African green monkey male. The ancestors were introduced from Ethiopia and Europe. The case monkey was housed as a family group in an outdoor enclosure with attached smaller room equipped with heating system. It lived 16.4 years. Pathological diagnosis was established through complete autopsy and histopathology. Main disease was chronic atrophic gastroenterocolitis in exacerbation complicated with alimentary dystrophy, cachexia (brown atrophy of the myocardium, liver, skeletal muscles). The concomitant diseases: complicated atherosclerosis of the aorta, dissecting abdominal aortic aneurysm with a large cylindrical organized thrombus in the aneurysm area, stenosing atherosclerosis of the renal arteries, vascular wrinkled left kidney; focal atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries and their branches with small foci of atherosclerotic cardiosclerosis and arteriosclerosis of cerebral arteries. The revealed changes indicate a significant similarity in the pathomorphogenesis of atherosclerotic lesions in African green monkey and humans. It allows us to consider this genus of primates as a promising laboratory model for studying the pathogenesis and mechanisms of regression as well as the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches to the treatment of atherosclerosis and its complications.

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to replicate associations of GWAS-significant loci with severe COVID-19 in the population of Central Russia, to investigate associations of the SNPs with thromboinflammation parameters, to analyze gene-gene and gene-environmental interactions.Materials and MethodsDNA samples from 798 unrelated Caucasian subjects from Central Russia (199 hospitalized COVID-19 patients and 599 controls with a mild or asymptomatic course of COVID-19) were genotyped using probe-based polymerase chain reaction for 10 GWAS-significant SNPs: rs143334143 CCHCR1, rs111837807 CCHCR1, rs17078346 SLC6A20-LLZTFL1, rs17713054 SLC6A20-LLZTFL1, rs7949972 ELF5, rs61882275 ELF5, rs12585036 ATP11A, rs67579710 THBS3, THBS3-AS1, rs12610495 DPP9, rs9636867 IFNAR2.ResultsSNP rs17713054 SLC6A20-LZTFL1 was associated with increased risk of severe COVID-19 in the entire group (risk allele A, OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.22–2.6, p = 0.003), obese individuals (OR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.52–3.5, p = 0.0002, (pbonf = 0.0004)), patients with low fruit and vegetable intake (OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.15–2.58, p = 0.01, (pbonf = 0.02)), low physical activity (OR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.26–2.94, p = 0.0035, (pbonf = 0.007)), and nonsmokers (OR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.11–2.46, p = 0.02). This SNP correlated with increased BMI (p = 0.006) and worsened thrombodynamic parameters (maximum optical density of the formed clot, D (p = 0.02), delayed appearance of spontaneous clots, Tsp (p = 0.02), clot size 30 min after coagulation activation, CS (p = 0.036)). SNP rs17078346 SLC6A20-LZTFL1 was linked with increased BMI (p = 0.01) and severe COVID-19 in obese individuals (risk allele C, OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.15–2.58, p = 0.01, (pbonf = 0.02)). SNP rs12610495 DPP9 was associated with increased BMI (p = 0.01), severe COVID-19 in obese patients (risk allele G, OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.09–2.01, p = 0.01, (pbonf = 0.02)), and worsened thrombodynamic parameters (time to the start of clot growth, Tlag (p = 0.01)). For rs7949972 ELF5, a protective effect against severe COVID-19 was observed in non-obese patients (effect allele T, OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.47–0.95, p = 0.02, (pbonf = 0.04)), improving thrombodynamic parameters (CS (p = 0.02), stationary spatial clot growth rates, Vst (p = 0.02)). Finally, rs12585036 ATP11A exhibited a protective effect against severe COVID-19 in males (protective allele A, OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.32–0.83, p = 0.004). SNPs rs67579710 THBS3, THBS3-AS1, rs17713054 SLC6A20-LZTFL1, rs7949972 ELF5, rs9636867 IFNAR2—were involved in two or more of the most significant G×G interactions (pperm ≤ 0.01). The pairwise combination rs67579710 THBS3, THBS3-AS1 × rs17713054 SLC6A20-LZTFL1 was a priority in determining susceptibility to severe COVID-19 (it was included in four of the top five most significant SNP-SNP interaction models).ConclusionOverall, this study represents a comprehensive molecular-genetic and bioinformatics analysis of the involvement of GWAS-significant loci in the molecular mechanisms of severe COVID-19, gene-gene and gene-environmental interactions, and provides evidence of their relationship with thromboinflammation parameters in patients hospitalized in intensive care units.

The south of the Russian Far East is distinguished by diversity of natural conditions for the presence of vectors and circulation of pathogens, primarily tick-borne infections. Despite the relatively low proportion of tick-borne encephalitis in the structure of tick-borne infections and the rather low incidence rate compared to other Russian regions, the disease here has epidemiological significance, which is associated with its severe course. Therefore, it is important to identify local areas of greatest epidemic manifestation of the disease and potential drivers influencing the spread of tick-borne encephalitis. This study uses data on population incidence in the municipal districts of Khabarovsk Krai, Amur Oblast, Jewish Autonomous Oblast and Zabaikalsky Krai between 2000 and 2020. Based on Kulldorf spatial scanning statistics, a temporally stable cluster of virus circulation in the population in the southwest of Zabaikalsky Krai was identified, which existed during 2009-2018. Regression modeling using zero-inflated negative binomial regression based on a set of environmental and socio-economic predictors allowed to identify variables determining the probability of infection: the share of forest, the amount of precipitation in the warm period, population density, as well as variables reflecting population employment and socio-economic well-being. Despite the fact that tick-borne encephalitis is a natural focal disease and may be characterized by natural periods of increased incidence, the influence of the social component can have a strong impact on the epidemiological manifestation. The identified spatio-temporal differences within the study region and potential drivers must be taken into account when developing a set of preventive measures.

Introduction. The reasons for the reduction of durability of flexural structures due to the violation of the protective layer of reinforcement are considered. It breaks down when cracks form. Cracks can self-heal by various methods, the most effective of which is microbial-induced precipitation of calcium carbonate.Materials and methods. Bacillus subtilis strains VKM B-70 and VKM B-501 (All-Russian Collection of Microorganisms), microsilica, metakaolin, and fly ash were used. Bacterial activity was assessed by culturing bacterial strains from tablet specimens. The pH of the specimens was determined using the pH meter. The crack growth rate was assessed by visual inspection of the tablet specimens by the optical microscope.Results. The results of the experiment on selection of optimal size of alginate bacterial granules for biomineral additives are shown. The effect of biomineral additives of various compositions on the overgrowth of cracks with a width of 100 to 500 µm was studied. The effect of increasing bacterial activity in the presence of the pozzolanic component is shown. The relationship between the alkalinity of the specimen medium and bacterial activity was revealed.Conclusions. The recommended granule diameter is 1–1.8 mm. The bacterial activity in such granules increases in the presence of pozzolanic component in the composition of the additive. Fly ash was most effective in formulations with Bacillus subtilus bacteria due to its ability to lower the pH of cement-sand compositions. By lowering the pH, conditions that are more favourable are created for the vital activity of bacteria. When using complex biomineral additives, there is a significant increase in the rate of crack healing, which will allow self-healing of cracks with a width of 100 microns in just five water-air cycles.

This work presents the results of studying the evaluation of fMRI data at the group level. Some factors influencing the formation of such estimates are shown. On the basis of experimental data obtained in forensic tests in the information concealment paradigm, attention is drawn to the need for a critical assessment of the results and methodology (design) of research, based on the results of which the outcome of the analysis of fMRI data at the group level are presented.

One of the factors in the development of uterine fibroids is a genetic predisposition to its occurrence in some women, but the real molecular genetic mechanisms of this phenomenon remain unknown. Aim of the study was the distribution analysis of gene polymorphism of cytokines TNFα, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, factors of angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor, VEGF) and remodeling of extracellular matrix (metalloproteinases MMP2, MMP3, MMP9), which are associated with their levels. Material and methods. Genotyping was performed by real-time PCR using commercial test systems SYBR GreenI (Litech, Russia) and TaqMan (Syntol, Russia) in accordance with the instructions of the developer. Cytokine content in blood serum was determined by flow cytometry using microspheres coated with monoclonal antibodies to cytokines (Bio-Plex ProTM Human Cytokine 27-plex Assay), according to the instructions for Bio-Plex 200 (Bio-Rad Laboratories, USA).To evaluate the results obtained, in addition to the generally accepted methods of statistical processing for case – control studies, computational methods of bioinformatics were used for comparative analysis of the diagnostic value of various combined genetic traits. Results. It was shown that the maximum odds ratio value of uterine fibroids development are combined genetic traits that include representatives of all four regulatory factors: cytokines with pro-inflammatory activity, cytokines with anti-inflammatory activity, vascular endothelial growth factors and metalloproteinases (p = 0.002). Conclusions. The presented data reveal the real mechanisms of manifestation of the genetic predisposition of individual women to the uterine fibroids development, associated with the presence of polymorphism of certain genes in their genome, which provide features of the structure of cytokine networks with the predominance of certain activities in the regulation of tissue processes in the uterus. In addition to purely scientific interest, these results indicate the real possibility of their clinical application in the form of prognostic criteria with a certain level of prognostic significance.

We describe a new treefrog species from Lao Cai Province, northwestern Vietnam. The new species is assigned to the genus Zhangixalus based on a combination of the following morphological characters: (1) dorsum green, smooth; body size medium (SVL 30.1–32.2 in males); (2) fingers webbed; tips of digits expanded into large disks, bearing circum-marginal grooves; (3) absence of dermal folds along limbs; (4) absence of supracloacal fold and tarsal projection. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by: (1) dorsal surface of the head and body green without spots; (2) axilla and groin cream with a black blotch; (3) ventral cream without spot; (4) chin creamy with grey marbling; anterior part of the thigh and ventral surface of tibia orange without spots; posterior parts of thigh orange with a large black blotch; (5) ventral side of webbing orange with some grey pattern (6) iris red-bronze, pupils black; (7) finger webbing formula I1¼-1¼II1-2III1-1IV, toe webbing formula I½-½II0-1½III¼-1¾IV1¾-½V. Phylogenetically, the new species is nested in the same subclade as Z. jodiae, Z. pinglongensis, and Z. yaoshanensis, with genetic distances ranging from 3.23% to 4.68%. The new species can be found in evergreen montane tropical forests at an elevation of about 1,883 m a.s.l. This new discovery brings the number of known genus Zhangixalus species to 42 and the number of species reported from Vietnam to 10.

Over the past decade magnetic resonance imaging is being increasingly used in revealing pathological changes in peripheral nervous system due to a number of technical innovations and growth of diagnostical strength, and, therefore, due to initiation of research of several magnetic resonance imaging methods which allow to perform quantitative assessment of peripheral nerves. Among them, diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging which gives an opportunity to investigate microstructural changes in nerves tissue by water diffusion evaluation should be mentioned first. T2‑relaxometry and magnetization transfer ratio studies allow assessing macromolecular integrity of peripheral nerves elements. Chemical shift‑based fat fraction evaluation in peripheral nerves and corresponding muscles is also of great scientific interest both for diagnostic and therapy effect monitoring purposes. Manuscript presents brief description of above‑ mentioned methods, as well as recent results and perspectives of their application for peripheral nerves evaluation, supplemented with own illustrations of experimental observations.

The significance of this research topic is due to the relevance of the problems of modern state-building in the public and political life of North and West Africa. The purpose of the research project is to analyze the causes and consequences of the emergence of radical movements of political Islam in the Maghreb and Sahel at the junction of the XX and XXI centuries and their connection with the shortcomings of national statehood inherent in both African regions. At the same time, the author focuses on the incompleteness of the state-building process, the weakness of institutions and the low level of justification for drawing state borders as concrete examples of such shortcomings that affected the socio-political climate in the Islamized areas adjacent to the Sahara. Based on the materials of sources and the theoretical model of regional security complexes (RSC), the author identified contradictions and diversity in the ideological and value views of the North African ruling circles, analyzed the methodological and spiritual and political foundations of the deeply rooted relationship between criminal and Islamist groups on the example of the activities of Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) (аn organization included in the list of terrorist organizations in theRussian Federation is mentioned) and its leaders - Abd al-Malik Drukdel, Mukhtar Belmukhtar, etc. It is proved that “Islamist internationalism” in the Maghreb and Sahel of the 2000s began to take ethnocultural forms, which was caused by the ‘network’ and ‘umbrell’a nature of the AQIM (аn organization included in the list of terrorist organizations in theRussian Federation is mentioned) structure, in which there was no centralized administrative-territorial management scheme. In addition, the distinctive features of the security policy of modern Algeria are shown and the importance of studying interregional contradictions for characterizing the geopolitical and economic reasons for the strengthening of Islamic radicalism in Africa is revealed.

Introduction. The article is devoted to the analysis of the relationship between the state and ethnic group, state and ethnic identity. It reveals the mechanisms of state formation based on the development of cultural baggage created within the framework of the ethnic communicative space. Theoretical analysis. One of the distinctive features of modern states is the complex nature of the identities that comprise their citizens. The article shows in what ways and due to what the president of the state asserts the beginning of the state. On the one hand, the state is trying to bring in the best examples of ethnic culture. On the other hand, it seeks to use the possibilities of new types of identity in its manifestations (digital identity). Materials borrowed from other types of identity are improved and adapted to the situation of their use in the process of development. They tend to be integrated into modern mass culture. In the process of development of the state, there is a change in the balance of “I” and “We” identities towards strengthening individual identity. The state is trying to counter this. Conclusion. The state uses ethnic communicative space and ethnic identity as a source of borrowing valuable plots, historical characters, and holidays. It also seeks to attract to its side ethnic activists who are the carriers of this information.

Одним из основных подходов к обработке, анализу и визуализации геофизических данных является применение геоинформационных систем и технологий, что обусловлено их геопространственной привязкой. Вместе с тем, сложность представления геофизических данных связана с их комплексной структурой, предполагающей множество составляющих, которые имеют одну и ту же геопространственную привязку. Яркими примерами данных такой структуры и формата являются гравитационные и геомагнитные поля, которые в общем случае задаются трех и четырехкомпонентными векторами с разнонаправленными осями координат. При этом на сегодняшний день отсутствуют решения, позволяющие визуализировать указанные данные в комплексе, не декомпозируя их на отдельные скалярные значения, которые, в свою очередь, могут быть представлены в виде одного или многих пространственных слоев. В этой связи в работе предложена концепция, использующая элементы тензорного исчисления для обработки, хранения и визуализации информации такого формата. Формализован механизм тензорного представления компонент поля с возможностью его комбинирования с другими данными такого же формата, с одной стороны, и свертки при сочетании с данными более низкого ранга. На примере гибридной реляционно-иерархической модели данных предложен механизм хранения информации по тензорным полям, предусматривающий возможность описания и применения инструкций по трансформации при переходе между различными системами координат. В работе рассматривается применение подхода при переходе от декартовой к сферической системе координат при представлении параметров геомагнитного поля. Для комплексной визуализации параметров тензорного поля предложен подход, основанный на применении тензорных глифов. В качестве последних при этом используются суперэллипсы с осями, соответствующими рангу тензора. При этом атрибутивные значения предлагается визуализировать относительно осей графического примитива таким образом, что распределение данных может быть задано посредством варьирования градиента монохромного представления параметра вдоль оси. Работоспособность концепции была исследована в ходе сравнительного анализа тензорного подхода с решениями, основанными на скалярной декомпозиции соответствующих комплексных значений с последующим их представлением в виде одного или многих пространственных слоев. Проведенный анализ показал, что применение предложенного подхода позволит в значительной степени повысить наглядность формируемого геопространственного изображения без необходимости сложного перекрывания пространственных слоев.

The capacitance-resistance model (CRM) has been a useful physics-based tool for obtaining production forecasts for decades. However, the model's limitations make it difficult to work with real field cases, where a lot of various events happen. Such events often include new well commissioning (NWC). We introduce a workflow that combines CRM concepts and kriging into a single tool to handle these types of events during history matching. Moreover, it can be used for selecting a new well placement during infill drilling. To make the workflow even more versatile, an improved version of CRM was used. It takes into account wells shut-ins and performed workovers by additional adjustment of the model coefficients. By preliminary re-weighing and interpolating these coefficients using kriging, the coefficients for potential wells can be determined. The approach was validated using both synthetic and real datasets, from which the cases of putting new wells into operation were selected. The workflow allows a fast assessment of future well performance with a minimal set of reservoir data. This way, a lot of well placement scenarios can be considered, and the best ones could be chosen for more detailed studies.

The article is devoted to the problem of improving interaction in B2B markets. By analyzing the literature on the issues under study, the authors have identified a trend in the customer management development in B2B markets towards a unique experience creation along the entire path of interaction between an account and a company. This is a business marketing strategy aimed at understanding, engaging and providing customized services and content to target accounts. The strategy involves using marketing techniques to engage the entire organization by targeting multiple stakeholders within a single potential account. The use of CJM as a methodology currently used in B2C markets has been justified and recommendations for its application in B2B made. CJM allows companies to align their business processes and resources with the needs of accounts, ensuring smooth teamwork. Engagement tools used in account engagement management have been systematized, helping to effectively shape the account experience; engagement performance metrics have been identified. The engagement tools implementation provides the cross-functional integration needed to engage with larger accounts, aligning marketing with sales and service. The article focuses on personalizing engagement with decision makers. The research analysis also revealed the features and trends of content customization within the ABM programs.

Objective – to investigate the clinical and morphological characteristics of the manifestations of the rupture of arterial aneurysms of the brain in patients with occlusive-stenotic lesions of the cerebral arteries. Materials and methods. 1147 case histories of patients with aneurysmal disease of the cerebral arteries who underwent comprehensive examination and treatment in the Department of Neurosurgical Pathology of Head and Neck Vessels with X-ray Surgical Department «Romodanov Institute of Neurosurgery NAMS of Ukraine» since 2006 until 2022. The medical histories of 126 patients who were included in this study and divided into two groups were studied in detail. The criteria for inclusion in the main group (38 men and 25 women) were: surgical treatment; rupture of arterial aneurysm the presence (proven using instrumental examination methods) of occlusive-stenotic lesions.The criteria for inclusion in the control group (38 men and 25 women) were: surgical treatment; rupture of arterial aneurysm; absence (proven by means of instrumental examination methods) of occlusive-stenotic lesions; the gender and age distribution had to match the main group.Among the patients included in this study, there were 76 men (60.32 %) and 50 women (39.68 %). The age of the patients varied from 31 to 77 years. The average age of patients ‒ 55.9 ± 0.76 years. Results. The Hunt‒Hess severity of patients was approximately the same between the main and control groups. When evaluated by the World Federation of Neurologican Surgeons (WFNS) and Glasgow Coma scale (GCS), more patients in the control group had a lighter score. Aneurysms of the anterior cerebral-anterior connecting artery complex prevailed in both groups. A higher frequency of arterial aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery was revealed among patients of the main group (main group ‒ 27.0 %, comparison group 15.8 %). The higher number of multiple aneurysms in the main group (the main group ‒ 25.4 %, the controlgroup ‒ 12.7 %) and the smaller number of miliary aneurysms and the larger number of large aneurysms in the main group may indicate the predominance of congenital etiological factors common to both pathologies in the development of the disease until the rupture of the arterial aneurysm. Conclusions. Gender differences were established with a predominance of men among patients of the main group (60.32 %). The average age of men with occlusive-stenotic lesions was lower than that of women (men – 54.3±0.94 years, women – 58.3±1.19 years). The difference in age is especially pronounced in the subgroup of the main group where the severity of stenosis is 50‒75 % (men ‒ 48.3 years; women ‒ 62.0 years).The neurological status of patients with a hemorrhagic stroke, as a result of the rupture of an arterial aneurysm, is significantly aggravated by occlusive-stenotic lesions due to the occurrence of chronic brain ischemia. The worst prognosis is in men with a ruptured arterial aneurysm and a 50‒75 % stenotic lesion.

SCIENTIFIC RELEVANCE. Russia is pursuing a consistent government policy of import substitution and increasing the localisation of pharmaceutical manufacturing. The Strategy for the Development of the Pharmaceutical Industry until 2030 (Pharma-2030) includes the target share of medicinal products from the List of Strategic Medicines that should be fully localised. Since biotechnological medicinal products have high consumption growth rates and are listed as strategic medicines, it is a priority to study their production localisation process.AIM. This study aimed to analyse the degree of biopharmaceutical manufacturing localisation in Russia, considering the country of origin of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study used the State Register of Medicines and sales data of the DSM Group marketing agency. The authors used custom software for the Node.js® platform to determine the degree of production localisation.RESULTS. The analysis showed that the production process was fully localised for 25.6% (in packages) and 26.6% (in roubles) of all biotechnological medicinal products consumed in Russia in 2022. Imported medicinal products dominated the consumption structure, with a share of 33.9% in packages and 31.3% in roubles. Medicinal products with localised secondary packaging accounted for 5.8% in packages and 25.9% in roubles. Finished dosage forms produced using imported APIs had a significant share of 23.7% in packages and 6.2% in roubles. Russian APIs were used to produce 79% of the biotechnological medicinal products listed as strategic medicines, which corresponded to the full localisation of a share of the consumption structure of 10.8% in packages and 32.3% in roubles.CONCLUSIONS. The Russian biotechnological market remains heavily dependent on imported finished medicinal products and APIs. Although the Pharma-2030 target for the production of strategic biotechnological products has been achieved, the quantitative indicators show the necessity to increase output and localisation.

In Europe, Wolffia globosa was first recorded in 2002 in the RF, and not in Bulgaria, as it was previously believed. Over the past 20 years, the species has expanded its secondary range. As of 2023, it is known from seven European countries. In Ukraine, W. globosa was first found in 2023 in two localities in Zhytomyr Region (Zhytomyr Polissia). The plant communities with W. globosa in Ukraine belong to the association Lemno-Spirodeletum polyrhizae of the alliance Lemnion minoris of the class Lemnetea. In the reported localities W. globosa occurs in eutrophic stagnant waterbodies with depths of 0.2–0.5 m and weakly flowing waterbodies with depths of 1.2–1.5 m; silty bottom is covered by a silt layer 5–20 cm thick, lighting is full. It is suggested that due to the observed climate warming, further migrations of W. globosa to other regions of Ukraine are possible.