Successful Cases Research Articles

Producing hip implants of titanium alloys by additive manufacturing

Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, in particular Selective Laser Melting (SLM) allows the production of complex-shaped individual implants from titanium alloys with high biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and improved osseointegration by surface texturing. In this work, the possibility of producing a custom-made hip implant from Ti-6Al-4V powder according to the data acquired via computed tomography of the patient is shown. Different heat treatments were applied in order to achieve better combination of tensile strength and elongation by partial decomposition of the martensitic phase. The implant was installed to the patient, postoperative supervision has shown good results, and the patient is able to move with the installed implant. A successful case of applying AM for producing custom hip implant is demonstrated in the paper. Using AM allowed the production of a custom-made hip implant in a short time and decreases the operation time and lessens the risk of infection ingress.

Peripheral Nerve Stimulation of the Axillary Nerve Improves Chronic Shoulder Pain and Dysfunction Following Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Case Report.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) is an effective procedure to improve shoulder pain, range of motion, and function for a variety of conditions, including glenohumeral osteoarthritis and rotator cuff arthropathy. However, up to 22% of patients have persistent shoulder pain 12 to 24 months following rTSA, even in the absence of surgical complications. Currently, there are no widely accepted non-pharmacological treatments for persistent postoperative pain after rTSA. This case report details the successful management of a 64-year-old woman with chronic postoperative shoulder pain following rTSA. She was treated with single-lead percutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation to the right axillary nerve for eight weeks with 12 Hz motor-level stimulation. She demonstrated improvement in shoulder flexion active range of motion, shoulder flexion strength, and shoulder abduction strength. Her Shoulder Pain and Disability Index total score improved from 26.93% to 8.46% one year following treatment. She reported an overall Global Rating of Change of +7 one year following treatment. This case's success demonstrates that short term peripheral nerve stimulation may provide long-term improvement of persistent post-operative pain and dysfunction in patients with painful rTSA.

THE SUCCESS OF ND-YAG LASER IN THE TREATMENT OF VENOUS MALFORMATIONS OF THE ORAL MUCOSA ABOUT TWO CASES

Venous malformations are the result of errors in endothelial cell morphogenesis, causing disorganized angiogenesis and intimal smooth muscle proliferation. (1) This results in the formation of dilated networks of venous lakes that are hemodynamically non-functional. (1,2) Depending on location, they may go unnoticed for years prior to presentation, and range from asymptomatic superficial varicosities to large deforming craniofacial lesions. The management of venous malformation will depend on the localization and expansion of the malformation, and there are multiple therapeutic approaches: sclerotherapy, surgery, and medical management. Lasers, another modality for treating VMs. we report two casesof success with the Nd Yag laser in the treatment ofsuperficialvenous malformations the oral mucosa.

The German opposition question in British World War II strategy: interpreting Hugh Trevor-Roper’s wartime intelligence reporting

ABSTRACT What explains the British decision not to lend significant support to the internal German opposition to Hitler during World War II? Some historians have labelled the absence of aid to the German resistance as an intelligence failure. P.R.J. Winter and others instead accuse the British government of policy failure by highlighting the excellent efforts of Britain’s wartime radio intelligence team, led by Hugh Trevor-Roper. But by closely reading the key piece of evidence in this case for intelligence success, the ‘Canaris and Himmler’ report, and by placing that assessment in the broader context of Trevor-Roper’s intelligence reporting through the end of the war, we argue that Trevor-Roper’s team did not lay the analytical groundwork for a shift in British strategy. Trevor-Roper neither appreciated nor conveyed to British policymakers the existence and strength of the German opposition, and he denigrated the opposition’s central hub, the Abwehr. This can be classed as a significant intelligence failure. Nevertheless, we also suggest that the intelligence versus policy failure framing of the German opposition question is something of a false dichotomy, as Whitehall’s intelligence and policy communities operated under a shared set of assumptions and reinforced each other’s beliefs about the appropriateness of British strategy.

Tracking potential Leptospira sources following human cases of leptospirosis: A One Health approach applied to an ecosystem in Brittany, France

Pathogenic Leptospira can cause leptospirosis: a widespread, potentially fatal bacterial zoonosis whose risk is mediated by the soil and water features, animal host distributions, meaning the local ecosystem. When human cases of leptospirosis occur, it is challenging to track down their source because ecosystem-level epidemiological knowledge on Leptospira is needed. Between 2016 and 2019 in a focal riparian ecosystem, the human population experienced an outbreak and successive cases of leptospirosis attributable to L. kirschneri and L. interrogans. The epidemiological investigation was carried out using the One Health approach, as described in international health guidelines. As a first step in this process, we investigated leptospiral carriage in the main animal hosts found in the region. We sampled 143 nutrias, 17 muskrats, and 10 Norway rats using convenient trapping. DNA was extracted from their kidneys, lungs, and urine and subjected to real-time PCR (RT-PCR) targeting the Leptospira 16S rDNA and lfb1 genes. In the farms along the river's stretch of interest, we sampled serum from 439 cattle and used a microscopic agglutination test to detect the presence of antibodies against Leptospira. Urine samples were concomitantly obtained from 145 cattle and were used in two analyses: RT-PCR targeting the Leptospira 16S rDNA gene and Leptospira culturing. We found th, wt rodents were the most likely source of the L. interrogans behind the human cases. The cattle tested negative for Leptospira DNA but positive for antibodies against the serogroups implicated in the human cases. We failed to identify the potential source of the L. kirschneri responsible for several human cases of leptospirosis. Our results call for further clarification of the Leptospira maintenance community, which may comprise known maintenance hosts, such as rodents, as well as taxa not commonly considered to be maintenance hosts but that can still spread Leptospira. The resulting research network will collaboratively conduct future eco-epidemiological surveys to illuminate the leptospirosis risks faced by humans and animals within ecosystems.

Evaluation of the Validity of Endoscopic Transpapillary Gallbladder Drainage for Acute Cholecystitis Based on the Tokyo Guidelines 2018.

We evaluated the validity of endoscopic transpapillary gallbladder drainage (ETGBD) as a bridging therapy prior to elective Lap-C for the patients with acute cholecystitis (AC). The Tokyo Guidelines 2018 recommend early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (Lap-C) for patients with AC, however, some patients require the preoperative drainage because of inadequate for early Lap-C du to background and comorbidities. We performed a retrospective cohort analysis using data from our hospital records from 2018-2021. In total, 71 cases of 61 patients with AC underwent ETGBD. The technical success rate was 85.9%. Patients in the failure group had more complicated branching of the cystic duct. The length of time until feeding was started and until WBC levels normalized, and the length of hospital stay were significantly shorter in the success group. The median waiting period for surgery was 39 days in the ETGBD success cases. The median operating time, amount of bleeding, and length of postoperative hospital stay were 134 min, 83.2g, and 4 days, respectively. In patients who underwent Lap-C, the waiting period for surgery and the operating time were similar between the ETGBD success and failure groups. However, the temporary discharge period after drainage and the length of postoperative hospital stay were significantly longer in the patients with ETGBD failure. Our study revealed that ETGBD has equivalent efficacy prior to elective Lap-C despite some challenges that lower its success rate. Preoperativ ETGBD can improve patient quality of life by eliminating the need for a drainage tube.

A Survey on Evaluation of Large Language Models

Large language models (LLMs) are gaining increasing popularity in both academia and industry, owing to their unprecedented performance in various applications. As LLMs continue to play a vital role in both research and daily use, their evaluation becomes increasingly critical, not only at the task level, but also at the society level for better understanding of their potential risks. Over the past years, significant efforts have been made to examine LLMs from various perspectives. This paper presents a comprehensive review of these evaluation methods for LLMs, focusing on three key dimensions: what to evaluate , where to evaluate , and how to evaluate . Firstly, we provide an overview from the perspective of evaluation tasks, encompassing general natural language processing tasks, reasoning, medical usage, ethics, education, natural and social sciences, agent applications, and other areas. Secondly, we answer the ‘where’ and ‘how’ questions by diving into the evaluation methods and benchmarks, which serve as crucial components in assessing the performance of LLMs. Then, we summarize the success and failure cases of LLMs in different tasks. Finally, we shed light on several future challenges that lie ahead in LLMs evaluation. Our aim is to offer invaluable insights to researchers in the realm of LLMs evaluation, thereby aiding the development of more proficient LLMs. Our key point is that evaluation should be treated as an essential discipline to better assist the development of LLMs. We consistently maintain the related open-source materials at: https://github.com/MLGroupJLU/LLM-eval-survey

Sustainable Business Practices: Integrating Environmental and Social Responsibility into Management Strategies

"Sustainable Business Practices: Integrating Environmental and Social Responsibility into Management Strategies" delves into the imperative shift toward sustainable practices within contemporary business management. The article explores the integration of environmental and social responsibility into organizational strategies, highlighting the evolving role of businesses in addressing environmental challenges and contributing positively to society. The background of the research underscores the growing recognition of the impact of business activities on the environment and society. This awareness has led to an increased emphasis on sustainable business practices as a means to balance economic goals with environmental and social concerns. The research gap lies in the need for a comprehensive understanding of how organizations effectively integrate sustainability into their management strategies. The urgency of this research is grounded in the critical need for businesses to adopt responsible practices that go beyond profit maximization. The article reviews previous studies to identify successful cases of sustainable business models, examining the challenges faced by organizations and the innovative approaches they adopt to embed sustainability into their core operations. The novelty of the article lies in its in-depth analysis of sustainable business practices, exploring the strategies employed by organizations to address environmental concerns, ensure social responsibility, and maintain economic viability. It discusses the role of leadership, stakeholder engagement, and the implementation of green technologies in achieving sustainable business outcomes. The objective of the research is to provide valuable insights for businesses, policymakers, and academics interested in promoting sustainable practices. The study aims to contribute to the development of practical frameworks for integrating environmental and social responsibility into business strategies, fostering a sustainable and ethical business landscape. Overall, the article seeks to inspire positive change within the business sector and contribute to a more sustainable and responsible global economy.

Revitalizing Your Skin: The Power of Microneedling with PRP for Pigmentation Reduction

: Treating facial pigmentation disorders has become controversial, with patients requesting less invasive and more effective treatments that minimize side effects. Microneedling, combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), has recently emerged as a common treatment in the field of aesthetic medicine, with numerous articles highlighting its use in restorative treatments and its effectiveness. However, there have been no reports to date on the use of this technique for addressing facial pigmentation disorders. In this article, we present a successful case study utilizing microneedling in combination with PRP to eliminate facial pigmentation. Based on the available evidence, it appears that this treatment approach is highly effective and carries minimal risk of side effects when used to address facial pigmentation.

Exhumations of Polish Soldiers in Lithuania: History and Methods of Research

The article describes the search for the remains of Polish soldiers in Lithuania from 1992 to the present day, and presents how such research has evolved, and what archaeological research methodology is used. The involvement of specialists from different institutions and disciplines in such searches is discussed. Although the article deals with the search for the remains of all Polish soldiers who died in the course of the 20th century conflicts in general, it is notable that the most numerous part of them is made up of the soldiers of Armia Krajowa. The main data available for such searches is the testimonies of live witnesses, supplemented and refined by archaeological and anthropological research. The methodology of such research is still being shaped on a case-by-case basis, so it is important to review and familiarise oneself with researches that has been carried out and cases of (un)successes, as this may help to plan further, more productive research and searches for individuals from this period in the future.

The New Frontiers of Gene Therapy and Gene Editing in Inflammatory Diseases.

Inflammatory diseases are conditions characterized by abnormal and often excessive immune responses, leading to tissue and organ inflammation. The complexity of these disorders arises from the intricate interplay of genetic factors and immune responses, which challenges conventional therapeutic approaches. However, the field of genetic manipulation has sparked unprecedented optimism in addressing these complex disorders. This review aims to comprehensively explore the application of gene therapy and gene editing in the context of inflammatory diseases, offering solutions that range from correcting genetic defects to precise immune modulation. These therapies have exhibited remarkable potential in ameliorating symptoms, improving quality of life, and even achieving disease remission. As we delve into recent breakthroughs and therapeutic applications, we illustrate how these advancements offer novel and transformative solutions for conditions that have traditionally eluded conventional treatments. By examining successful case studies and preclinical research, we emphasize the favorable results and substantial transformative impacts that gene-based interventions have demonstrated in patients and animal models of inflammatory diseases such as chronic granulomatous disease, cryopyrin-associated syndromes, and adenosine deaminase 2 deficiency, as well as those of multifactorial origins such as arthropathies (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis) and inflammatory bowel disease. In conclusion, gene therapy and gene editing offer transformative opportunities to address the underlying causes of inflammatory diseases, ushering in a new era of precision medicine and providing hope for personalized, targeted treatments.

Analytical quality by design based on knowledge organization: A case study of developing an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography method for the detection of phenolic compounds.

Despite numerous successful cases, there are still some challenges in using analytical quality by design (AQbD) for the development of analytical methods. Knowledge organization helps to enhance the objectivity of risk assessment, reduce the number of preliminary exploratory experiments, identify potential critical method parameters (CMPs) and their scope. In the present study, we aimed to develop a simple, rapid, and robust analytical method for detecting phenolic compounds in Xiaochaihu capsule intermediates utilizing knowledge organization. Knowledge organization and AQbD were combined to obtain the initial analytical conditions through knowledge collection, extraction, reorganization, and analysis. The quantitative relationship between critical method attributes (CMAs) and CMPs was then established by a definitive screening design. The method operable design region was calculated using an exhaustive Monte Carlo approach based on the probability of reaching the standard. Robustness investigation and methodological validation were finally performed. Analytical target profiles, CMAs, potential CMPs, and initial analytical conditions were initially identified, and the optimized ranges of operating parameters were obtained. A UHPLC method was successfully established for the analysis of phenolic compounds in ginger-ginger pinellia percolate, and the method validation outcomes were also satisfactory. The developed method can be a reliable means to detect the phenolic compounds of Xiaochaihu capsule intermediates. Knowledge organization provides a new approach for making better use of prior knowledge, significantly enhancing the efficiency of analytical method development. The approach is versatile and can be similarly applied to the development of other methods.

Intratorakalinis žastikaulio galvos išnirimas, esant politraumai: klinikinio atvejo aprašymas

Intrathoracic displacement of the humeral head is rarely documented due to high mortality of the trauma. As a result, there is no clear consensus about how such case should be approached. In this report we reviewed our successful case, and reviewed the literature. The patient arrived after car accident with a broken humerus and upon taking X-ray found to have the humeral head lodged in the chest cavity. After humeral head removal and arthroplasty, patient was discharged without complications. In literature several cases were found in which a patient usually suffers because of high energy trauma with arm typically in abducted position. In all cases treatment involves removing humeral fragment from chest and prosthetic arthroplasty of the glenohumeral joint. Although some authors suggest leaving humeral fragment in some cases while others suggest to always remove. Exact indications of such decision are unclear. Cases like this pose a high risk of neurological and circulatory complications, although no complications were observed in this case. Nevertheless, there have been too few similar cases described to establish a proper methodology.

Narrative Storytelling as a Fan Conversion Tool in the Netflix Docuseries Drive to Survive

This paper explores how narrative storytelling converts individuals into sport fans. Data were collected through content analysis of Netflix’s Formula 1: Drive to Survive. Rhetorical criticism was applied to narrative elements identified in this popular docuseries. The conceptual framework drew from existing theories to detail how narrative storytelling effectively engages audiences and facilitates information exchange to achieve sport fandom. Findings show that the main narrative elements used in Drive to Survive were the plot types of adventure, ascension/descension, rivalry, and sacrifice, as well as the character type of hero. These narrative elements fostered sport fan conversion by providing multiple opportunities for information exchange, emotional connection, and inter-fan relationships. Ultimately, this study provides insight into conversion-through-narrative, strengthening the theoretical link between narrative storytelling and sport fandom by examining how narrative elements function in a successful case of sport fan conversion.

The Importance of Effective Management in Driving Economic Growth in Developing Countries

This article discusses the crucial role of effective management in spurring economic growth in developing countries. Good management is the basis for designing, implementing and optimizing economic policies that support the development of key sectors, factors such as operationally efficient human resource management, innovation and stability. proven to be a key driver in achieving sustainable growth through case study analysis and literature review. This article outlines the positive impact of effective management on company productivity and national economic growth. A comparison of successful management practices with less successful cases provides insight into the strategic importance of directed management and adaptive in facing economic challenges. Apart from that, this article highlights the importance of building managerial capacity through education and training. Improving material skills at various levels of the organization can strengthen economic foundations and open up new opportunities for innovation and investment. Based on these findings, this article concludes that effective management is not only the key to company success but also the main factor that can encourage economic growth in developing countries. Therefore, stakeholders from both the public and private sectors need to work together to strengthen managerial capacity and create an environment which supports exclusive and sustainable economic growth

Place-Based Adaptation through Network Governance

Following the inception of Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) within the UNFCCC in 1992, national CCA plans began to emerge around 2008. However, identifying successful cases of adaptation remains challenging. This is because CCA policies often stop at planning, with selective reporting of relevant projects. Recognizing that planning is not the same as actual delivery, substantial gaps persist in connecting these plans to concrete actions, hindering successful adaptation. This paper explores this implementation deficit through the examination of three different governance modes (hierarchies, markets, and networks). Drawing on a policy review (desk study), a qualitative online survey, and semi-structured interviews with professionals engaged in local CCA policies, we identified enablers of effective adaptation policy progress by comparing the Edinburgh and Glasgow city regions. Despite their close spatial and relational proximity, these two city regions have distinct administrative geographies, political leadership, and adaptation-related networks, which identify unique local contexts sufficient to drive different CCA progress. We noted more CCA progress when specific resources included coordinators (dedicated staff) and fiscal supplements, along with regional networks connecting local communities and strengthening partnerships while sharing common values such as reputational opportunities in the Glasgow city region. These findings shed light on effective adaptation governance modes that require not only a deep understanding of place-based contexts but also the presence or nurturing of broader and reinforced networks.

ICMS Educação de Santa Catarina: Criação, Aplicação e Perspectivas

Based on the successful case in the state of Ceará, the Constitutional Amendment No. 108/2020 was promulgated, obligating Brazilian states, within two years of its promulgation, to approve laws that included criteria based on educational quality indices in municipal ICMS transfers, considering the socio-economic context of students. In this scenario, the crucial role of the State Court of Accounts of Santa Catarina and other entities in the development of this transfer methodology in the state of Santa Catarina is acknowledged, as approved by State Law No. 18489/2022. This article provides a detailed explanation of the key points of this transfer methodology and its application. Finally, it is expected that the promulgation of this law with the clarified ICMS Education methodology, as outlined in this article, along with the active and present role of professionals from the State Court of Accounts of Santa Catarina, will induce significant impacts on basic education in Santa Catarina.

Hydrogen Spillover Phenomenon at the Interface of Metal-Supported Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution.

ConspectusHydrogen spillover, as a well-known phenomenon for thermal hydrogenation, generally involves the migration of active hydrogen on the surface of metal-supported catalysts. For thermocatalytic hydrogenation, hydrogen spillover generally takes place from metals with superiority for dissociating hydrogen molecules to supports with strong hydrogen adsorption under a H2 environment with high pressures. The former can bring high hydrogen chemical potential to largely reduce the kinetic barrier of the migration of active hydrogen species from metals to supports. At the same time, the latter can make H* migration thermodynamically spontaneous. For these reasons, hydrogen spillover is a common interfacial phenomenon occurring on metal-supported catalysts during thermocatalysis. Recently, this phenomenon has been observed for the exceptionally enhanced electrocatalytic performance for hydrogen evolution and other electrocatalytic organic synthesis. Different from hydrogen spillover for thermocatalysis under high H2 pressure, hydrogen spillover for electrocatalysis involves the migration of active hydrogen species (H*) from metals with strong hydrogen adsorption to supports with weak hydrogen adsorption, thereby suffering from a thermodynamically unfavorable process accompanied by a high kinetic barrier. Thus, the occurrence of hydrogen spillover at the electrocatalytic interface is not easy, and successful cases are rare. Understanding the underlying nature of hydrogen spillover at the electrocatalytic interface of metal-supported catalysts is critical to the rational design of advanced electrocatalysts.In this Account, we provide in-depth insights into recent advances in hydrogen spillover at the electrocatalytic interface for a significantly enhanced hydrogen evolution performance. Electron accumulation at the metal-support interface induces severe interfacial H* trapping and is recognized as the main factor in the failed hydrogen spillover. Given this, we developed two novel strategies to promote the occurrence of hydrogen spillover at the electrocatalytic interface. These strategies include (i) the introduction of ligand environments to enrich the local hydrogen coverage on metals and lower the barrier for interfacial hydrogen spillover and (ii) the minimization of work function difference between metals and supports (ΔΦ) to relieve electron accumulation and lower the kinetic barrier for hydrogen spillover. Also, we summarize the previously reported strategy of shortening the metal-support interface distance to lower the kinetic barrier for interfacial hydrogen spillover. Afterward, some criteria and methodologies are proposed to identify the hydrogen spillover phenomenon at the electrocatalytic interface. Finally, the remaining challenges and future perspectives are also discussed. Based on this Account, we aim to provide new insights into electrocatalysis, particularly the targeted control of hydrogen spillover at the electrocatalytic interface, and then to offer guidelines for the rational design of advanced electrocatalysts.

Digital currency adoption in Africa: A critical review and global comparison

This study critically examines the landscape of digital currency adoption in Africa, providing a comprehensive analysis that juxtaposes the region's progress against global trends. As the world witnesses an accelerating shift towards digital currencies, Africa stands at a crucial juncture in its financial evolution. This research delves into the factors influencing the adoption of digital currencies in various African nations, exploring the socio-economic, technological, and regulatory dimensions that shape their trajectory. The study employs a comparative approach, drawing parallels between Africa's digital currency adoption and global patterns. By examining successful case studies and identifying challenges unique to the African context, the research sheds light on the diverse experiences within the continent. Factors such as financial inclusion, regulatory frameworks, technological infrastructure, and cultural perceptions are scrutinized to unravel the complexities surrounding digital currency adoption. Furthermore, the study investigates the impact of global trends and initiatives on Africa's digital currency landscape. The analysis encompasses the role of international collaborations, regulatory harmonization efforts, and the influence of major digital currencies in shaping the African narrative. By identifying both opportunities and challenges, the research aims to offer insights that can inform policymakers, financial institutions, and stakeholders in fostering a conducive environment for digital currency adoption in Africa. The findings of this study contribute to the academic discourse on digital currency adoption, providing a nuanced understanding of Africa's position in the global digital financial ecosystem. In an era where technological advancements redefine traditional financial paradigms, this research aims to inform strategic decision-making processes that can unlock the transformative potential of digital currencies in the African context.

Should Coronary Artery Fistula Be Treated? A Review Throughout a Case Series

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) includes a wide spectrum of entities beyond the atherosclerotic disease. Coronary artery fistulas (CAF) represent an uncommon vascular abnormality that may cause several cardiovascular complications and symptoms, due to the coronary steal phenomena. Surgical or percutaneous closure should always be considered. The authors present a case series of patients with CAFs who developed cardiovascular manifestations, and underwent percutaneous closure safely and feasibly, with good clinical results. Case Summary: Five patients with CAFs were treated from 2021–2023; three were male (60%), the mean age was 59 years, the most common symptom was chest pain, and two patients presented in the context of unstable angina. The authors documented pulmonary hypertension in three patients, none of them with haemodynamic compromise of right ventricle. Two of the patients had documented ischaemia or haemodynamic significance due to the CAF. Finally, in two cases, no CAD was noted in coronary angiography. Percutaneous closure was done using a 6 Fr or 7 Fr sheath; guiding catheter 6 or 7 Fr through a workhorse guidewire, a microcatheter was placed in the coronary origin of the fistula, closure was done using a liquid embolisation system or delivering coils into the defect. The number and length of coils may vary depending on the fistula’s size. Discussion: The authors present five successful cases of percutaneous closure of symptomatic CAF, who presented with angina or dyspnoea as main symptoms. Once the diagnosis was made and further studies performed, the closure was decided based on the pulmonary hypertension or coronary steal phenomena.