bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mortality Benefit of a Blood-Based Biomarker Panel for Lung Cancer on the Basis of the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cohort
Authors: Irajizad Ehsan , Fahrmann Johannes F. , Marsh Tracey , Vykoukal Jody , Dennison Jennifer B. , Long James P. , Do Kim-Anh , Feng Ziding , Hanash Samir , Ostrin Edwin J.
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE

To investigate the utility of integrating a panel of circulating protein biomarkers in combination with a risk model on the basis of subject characteristics to identify individuals at high risk of harboring a lethal lung cancer.

METHODS

Data from an established logistic regression model that combines four-marker protein panel (4MP) together with the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) risk model (PLCOm2012) assayed in prediagnostic sera from 552 lung cancer cases and 2,193 noncases from the PLCO cohort were used in this study. Of the 552 lung cancer cases, 387 (70%) died of lung cancer. Cumulative incidence of lung cancer death and subdistributional and cause-specific hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated on the basis of 4MP + PLCOm2012 risk scores at a predefined 1.0% and 1.7% 6-year risk thresholds, which correspond to the current and former US Preventive Services Task Force screening criteria, respectively.

RESULTS

When considering cases diagnosed within 1 year of blood draw and all noncases, the area under receiver operation characteristics curve estimate of the 4MP + PLCOm2012 model for risk prediction of lung cancer death was 0.88 (95% CI, 0.86 to 0.90). The cumulative incidence of lung cancer death was statistically significantly higher in individuals with 4MP + PLCOm2012 scores above the 1.0% 6-year risk threshold (modified χ2, 166.27; P < .0001). Corresponding subdistributional and lung cancer death–specific HRs for test-positive cases were 9.88 (95% CI, 6.44 to 15.18) and 10.65 (95% CI, 6.93 to 16.37), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The blood-based biomarker panel in combination with PLCOm2012 identifies individuals at high risk of a lethal lung cancer.
Lazertinib Versus Gefitinib as First-Line Treatment in Patients With EGFR-Mutated Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Results From LASER301
Authors: Cho Byoung Chul , Ahn Myung-Ju , Kang Jin Hyoung , Soo Ross A. , Reungwetwattana Thanyanan , Yang James Chih-Hsin , Cicin Irfan , Kim Dong-Wan , Wu Yi-Long , Lu Shun , Lee Ki Hyeong , Pang Yong-Kek , Zimina Anastasia , Fong Chin Heng , Poddubskaya Elena , Sezer Ahmet , How Soon Hin , Danchaivijitr Pongwut , Kim YuKyung , Lim Yeji , An Taewon , Lee Hana , Byun Hae Mi , Zaric Bojan
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE

Lazertinib is a potent, CNS-penetrant, third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor. This global, phase III study (LASER301) compared lazertinib versus gefitinib in treatment-naïve patients with EGFR-mutated (exon 19 deletion [ex19del]/L858R) locally advanced or metastatic non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients were 18 years and older with no previous systemic anticancer therapy. Neurologically stable patients with CNS metastases were allowed. Patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to lazertinib 240 mg once daily orally or gefitinib 250 mg once daily orally, stratified by mutation status and race. The primary end point was investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS) by RECIST v1.1.

RESULTS

Overall, 393 patients received double-blind study treatment across 96 sites in 13 countries. Median PFS was significantly longer with lazertinib than with gefitinib (20.6 v 9.7 months; hazard ratio [HR], 0.45; 95% CI, 0.34 to 0.58; P < .001). The PFS benefit of lazertinib over gefitinib was consistent across all predefined subgroups. The objective response rate was 76% in both groups (odds ratio, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.62 to 1.59). Median duration of response was 19.4 months (95% CI, 16.6 to 24.9) with lazertinib versus 8.3 months (95% CI, 6.9 to 10.9) with gefitinib. Overall survival data were immature at the interim analysis (29% maturity). The 18-month survival rate was 80% with lazertinib and 72% with gefitinib (HR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.51 to 1.08; P = .116). Observed safety of both treatments was consistent with their previously reported safety profiles.

CONCLUSION

Lazertinib demonstrated significant efficacy improvement compared with gefitinib in the first-line treatment of EGFR-mutated advanced NSCLC, with a manageable safety profile.
Meeting the Body Mass Index Requirement for Gender-affirming Surgery Using Antiobesity Medication
Authors: Taormina John Michael , Gilden Adam H , Iwamoto Sean J
Published: June 2023

One-fourth of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) patients presenting for initial gender-affirming surgery (GAS) consult is denied surgery due to obesity. Many surgery centers enforce body mass index (BMI) requirements for GAS because of concerns about perioperative risks, cosmetic outcomes, and reoperation. TGD people experience gender minority stress and disparities in lifestyle factors that likely contribute to excess weight gain. Gender-affirming hormone therapy has also been associated with increased body weight. Effective and affirming weight management interventions for TGD patients with overweight and obesity are currently lacking. We report the case of a 40-year-old transgender woman with a BMI of 39.6 kg/m2 who presented for weight loss to qualify for gender-affirming bilateral breast augmentation, requiring BMI <35 kg/m2. In addition to lifestyle modification counseling, she was started on semaglutide with monthly dose escalation, leading to 13.9% weight loss with a BMI of 34.1 kg/m2 within 3 months. This case highlights the need for access to affirming weight management services for TGD patients pursuing GAS and the role of antiobesity medications in reaching presurgical BMI targets. Further studies should evaluate the needs of TGD patients in weight loss interventions and the effects of weight loss and antiobesity medications on gender-affirming hormone therapy.
Pituitary Apoplexy Secondary to Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist for Breast Cancer
Authors: Mastandrea Katherine , Voica Mihail , Tetlay Maryam , Hasan Farhad
Published: June 2023

Pituitary apoplexy is a potentially fatal clinical condition that results from pituitary infarction due to ischemia or hemorrhage. We present a case of a 53-year-old female patient with a history of recurrent pituitary macroadenoma who presented with headache, blurry vision, nausea, vomiting, and photophobia after receiving a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist, leuprolide, as part of adjuvant endocrine therapy for breast cancer. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed the presence of pituitary apoplexy, and endocrine workup showed anterior hypopituitarism. The patient was managed conservatively and required glucocorticoid replacement. A repeat MRI after 3 months showed a partially empty sella. A review of the literature revealed that this case adds to the growing number of patients who present with headache, visual symptoms, and symptoms related to meningeal irritation after administration of GnRH agonists, with varying latency from treatment to symptom onset. Although there are other cases involving female patients or patients with known pituitary macroadenomas, to our knowledge, this is the first reported case of pituitary apoplexy in a patient receiving a GnRH agonist as an adjuvant for breast cancer. Physicians should be aware of this rare complication of GnRH agonist therapy in patients with a pituitary macroadenoma.
Ethanol Ablation of a Thyroglossal Duct Cyst and Review of the Literature
Authors: Stillman Mason D , Waring Nicholas A , Kuo Jennifer H
Published: June 2023

Ultrasound-guided ethanol ablation (EA) is a less invasive alternative to surgical resection for the management of thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDCs). However, to date, EA is rarely used in the United States to treat TGDCs. We present a case of TGDC successfully treated with EA in the United States. A 66-year-old man presented with a mobile anterior neck mass. Neck ultrasonography revealed a complex cystic mass in the midline directly anterior to the trachea, measuring 52 × 41 × 50 mm. Fine needle aspiration revealed no malignant cells, and pathology was consistent with TGDC. The patient had no contraindications to surgical resection. The patient's pretreatment symptom score was 7 and cosmetic score was 3. One month after EA, volume reduction ratio was 40%, symptom score was 1, and cosmetic score was 3. Four months after EA, the TGDC was resolved without need for an additional procedure. The volume reduction ratio was 96.8%, and symptom score and cosmetic score were both 1. In summary, EA is a viable alternative to surgical resection, even in patients who are surgical candidates. EA is attractive due to its simplicity, cost effectiveness, and tolerable side effect profile. Further studies are needed to evaluate long-term safety and efficacy, particularly in United States patients.
Electrically Evoked Isotonic Plantar Flexion Contractions Are Impaired less than Voluntary Following a Dynamic Fatiguing Task
Authors: Paris Michael T. , Kulkarni Sohum V. , Rice Charles L.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Evaluating central and peripheral processes responsible for reduced power following dynamic fatiguing tasks are often limited to isometric torque, which may not accurately reflect dynamic contractile performance. Here, we compare voluntary and electrically evoked peak power (and its determinants: dynamic torque and velocity) and rate of velocity development (RVD) before and after a dynamic fatiguing task using concentric plantar flexion contractions.

Methods

Young (18-32 years) males (n = 11) and females (n = 2) performed maximal-effort isotonic plantar flexion contractions using a load of 20% isometric torque until a ~ 75% reduction in peak power. Voluntary and electrically evoked (300 Hz tibial nerve stimulation) contractions loaded to 20% and 40% isometric torque through 25° ankle joint range of motion were compared before and 0-, 2.5-, 5-, and 10-minutes following task termination.

Results

At task termination, peak power and RVD of voluntary contractions at both loads were reduced more (~40% to 50% reduction) than electrically evoked (~25% to 35% reduction) contractions (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003). Throughout the recovery period, electrically evoked peak power and RVD returned to baseline sooner (<5 minutes) than voluntary contractions; which were still depressed at 10 minutes. Reductions in peak power for the 20% load were due equally to impaired dynamic torque and velocity, whereas velocity was impaired more than dynamic torque (p < 0.001) for the 40% load.

Conclusions

The relative preservation of electrically evoked power and RVD compared to voluntary contractions at task termination and quicker recovery to baseline indicates that the reductions in dynamic contractile performance following task termination are due to both central and peripheral processes, however, the relative contribution of dynamic torque and velocity are load dependent.
From Hashtag to Hate Crime: Twitter and Antiminority Sentiment
Authors: Müller Karsten , Schwarz Carlo
Published: June 2023

We study whether social media can amplify antiminority sentiment with a focus on Donald Trump’s political rise. Using an instrumental variable strategy based on Twitter’s early adopters at the South by Southwest festival in 2007, we find that higher Twitter use in a county is associated with a sizeable increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes after the 2016 presidential primaries. Trump’s tweets about Muslims predict increases in xenophobic tweets by his followers, cable news mentions of Muslims, and hate crimes on the following days. These results suggest that social media content can affect real-life out-comes. (JEL D72, J15, K42, L82, Z12)
When Sarah Meets Lawrence: The Effects of Coeducation on Women’s College Major Choices
Authors: Calkins Avery , Binder Ariel J. , Shaat Dana , Timpe Brenden
Published: June 2023

We leverage variation in the adoption of coeducation by US women’s colleges to study how exposure to a mixed-gender collegiate environment affects women’s human capital investments. Our event-study analyses of newly collected historical data find a 3.0–3.5 percentage point (30–33 percent) decline in the share of women majoring in STEM fields. While coeducation caused a large influx of male peers and a modest increase in male faculty, we find no evidence that it altered the composition of the female student body or other gender-neutral inputs. Extrapolation of our main estimate suggests that coeducational environments explain 36 percent of the current gender gap in STEM majors. (JEL I23, I26, J16, J24)
Spatial arrangement of functional domains in OxyS stress response sRNA
Authors: Štih Vesna , Amenitsch Heinz , Plavec Janez , Podbevšek Peter
Published: June 2023

Small noncoding RNAs are an important class of regulatory RNAs in bacteria, often regulating responses to changes in environmental conditions. OxyS is a 110 nt, stable,trans-encoded small RNA found inEscherichia coliand is induced by an increased concentration of hydrogen peroxide. OxyS has an important regulatory role in cell stress response, affecting the expression of multiple genes. In this work, we investigated the structure of OxyS and the interaction withfhlAmRNA using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering, and unbiased molecular dynamics simulations. We determined the secondary structures of isolated stem–loops and confirmed their structural integrity in OxyS. Unexpectedly, stem–loop SL4 was identified in the region that was predicted to be unstructured. Three-dimensional models of OxyS demonstrate that OxyS adopts an extended structure with four solvent-exposed stem–loops, which are available for interaction with other RNAs and proteins. Furthermore, we provide evidence of base-pairing between OxyS andfhlAmRNA.
Ο ανιμισμός στο άνιμε: Οι ψυχολατρικές καταβολές της παραδοσιακής Ιαπωνικής θρησκείας Σίντο και πώς αφομοιώνονται στην τέχνη του άνιμε μέσα από το παράδειγμα της ταινίας του Χαγιάο Μιγιαζάκι «Ταξίδι στη χώρα των θαυμάτων»
Authors: Milkidis Alexander
Published: June 2023

Η ύπαρξη και φύση της ψυχής αποτελεί ένα από τα σημαντικότερα θέματα θεολογικής, φιλοσοφικής και καλλιτεχνικής αναζήτησης του Ανθρώπου. Διότι, μέσα από την αναζήτηση της ουσίας και της αλήθειας που κρύβονται πίσω από το μυστήριο της ψυχής αναζητούνται η ουσία και η αλήθεια της ίδιας της ζωής, του θανάτου, των εννοιών της ύπαρξης και της δημιουργίας.

Πλείστοι λαοί ανά την ανθρώπινη Ιστορία ταυτίστηκαν με τα ψυχοκεντρικά χαρακτηριστικά των αρχαίων θρησκειών τους. Τούτη η ανιμιστική φύση της θρησκείας που μεταβαίνει στην ευρύτερη νοοτροπία και φιλοσοφία ενός λαού, χαρακτηρίζει τους Ιάπωνες, των οποίων η παραδοσιακή θρησκεία Σίντο, οι πεποιθήσεις της και η κοσμοαντίληψη που πηγάζουν από αυτή μεταπηδά σε πτυχές της πολιτισμικής τους έκφρασης όπως η παραδοσιακή τους τέχνη εμψύχωσης (animation), το άνιμε.

Η σχέση του, ριζωμένου στη Σίντο, ανιμιστικού τρόπου σκέψης των Ιαπώνων με τις αφηγήσεις της τέχνης του άνιμε, μελετάται, επί του παρόντος κειμένου, δια του παραδείγματος της ταινίας του Χαγιάο Μιγιαζάκι «Ταξίδι στη χώρα των θαυμάτων».
Load Game
Authors: ΘΕΟΔΩΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ ΜΑΞΙΜΟΣ
Published: June 2023

Η βιομηχανία των ψηφιακών παιχνιδιών έχει εδραιωθεί σήμερα παγκοσμίως ως ένας οικονομικός, τεχνολογικός και πολιτιστικός τιτάνας. Πέρα όμως από τις κυρίαρχες περιοχές παραγωγής ψηφιακών παιχνιδιών (Κίνα, Βόρεια Αμερική, Δυτική Ευρώπη, Ιαπωνία) και τους υψηλού προϋπολογισμού τίτλους, η ανεξάρτητη ανάπτυξη και οι δημιουργοί από διάφορα μέρη του κόσμου αποτελούν σημαντικό πυλώνα της εν λόγω βιομηχανίας. Τα τελευταία δέκα χρόνια, έχει φανεί ένας νέος δυναμικός μετασχηματισμός ψηφιακού περιεχομένου σε παραγωγικό επίπεδο στη νότια περιοχή της Ευρώπης και δη της Ελλάδας. Μέσα από 35 ημι-δομημένες συνεντεύξεις που διεξήχθησαν την περίοδο 2019-2023, αυτό το άρθρο έχει ως στόχο να εξετάσει τα χαρακτηριστικά της ανεξάρτητης παραγωγής ψηφιακών παιχνιδιών στην Ελλάδα, στη σύγχρονη περίοδο. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, εστιάζει στις εργασιακές κουλτούρες και παραγωγικές ταυτότητες των Ελλ.ήνων.ηνίδων δημιουργών, στα τοπικά και διεθνή δίκτυα που υποστηρίζουν την τοπική ανεξάρτητη ανάπτυξη, καθώς και τις κύριες στιλιστικές, σχεδιαστικές τάσεις των ελληνικών ψηφιακών παιχνιδιών.
Σχεδιασμός, παραγωγή και εκπαιδευτική αξιοποίηση της ψηφιακής αφήγησης
Authors: Σοφός Αλιβίζος (Λοΐζος) , Γιασιράνης Στέφανος
Published: June 2023

Η ψηφιακή αφήγηση μπορεί να δημιουργήσει περιθώρια αποτελεσματικής μάθησης, αλλά σε καμία περίπτωση δεν θα φέρει επανάσταση στη διδασκαλία, καθώς η διδασκαλία ως διαδικασία είναι ευρύτερη και κάτι πολύ περισσότερο από ένα βιβλίο, ένα βίντεο, μια ψηφιακή αφήγηση, μια διάλεξη ή μια άσκηση.  Η ψηφιακή αφήγηση βοηθά στην διδασκαλία όσο ακριβώς τα κείμενα στα βιβλία. Η διαπίστωση αυτή συνήθως δεν λαμβάνεται υπόψη. Από τη μια μεριά βλέπουμε ότι οι προσπάθειες ψηφιοποίησης αφηγήσεων από πολλούς φορείς, συχνά, δεν είναι κάτι περισσότερο από τη δημιουργία εκπαιδευτικών βίντεο σε συνδυασμό με την ελπίδα ότι μια νέα μαθησιακή κουλτούρα μπορεί να αναδειχθεί μέσα από αυτές. Από την άλλη μεριά παρατηρούμε ότι αρκετοί εκπαιδευτικοί εμφανίζονται απρόθυμοι να την αξιοποιήσουν στα μαθήματά τους ή και να καθοδηγήσουν τους μαθητές τους, κυρίως γιατί δεν γνωρίζουν μεθοδολογίες που θα τους βοηθούσαν να τις εντάξουν με ουσιαστικό τρόπο στην εκπαιδευτική διαδικασία. Στο παρόν άρθρο, γίνεται μια σύντομη εισαγωγή στην ψηφιακή αφήγηση. Στη συνέχεια παρουσιάζονται οι βασικές γνώσεις (αρχές, βήματα, δόμηση κ.α.) που πρέπει να κατέχει ένας εκπαιδευτικός προκειμένου να αναπτύξει ο ίδιος ψηφιακές αφηγήσεις ή να καθοδηγήσει αποτελεσματικά τους μαθητές του να το κάνουν, εστιάζοντας στα μοντέλα δόμησης της αφήγησης. Τέλος, το άρθρο επικεντρώνεται στις εκπαιδευτικές δραστηριότητες που συνοδεύουν τις ψηφιακές αφηγήσεις με στόχο την ενδυνάμωση της μαθησιακής διαδικασίας.
Students as creators of Augmented Reality (AR). The use of Web-based AR as a means of presenting landmarks and points of interest.
Authors: Margaritis Georgios , Siakas Spyros
Published: June 2023

Η εργασία παρουσιάζει έναν απλό τρόπο με τον οποίο μαθητές της δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης μπορούν να δημιουργήσουν μία εμπειρία AR, χρησιμοποιώντας το κινητό τους τηλέφωνο ή φωτογραφική μηχανή, επεξεργασία εικόνας, και μία πλατφόρμα ανάπτυξης AR. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, οι μαθητές θα κληθούν να τραβήξουν μία πανοραμική εικόνα 360ο ενός αξιοθέατου της περιοχής τους, και στη συνέχεια να δημιουργήσουν μία εφαρμογή AR, η οποία θα παρουσιάζει το πανόραμα στο περιβάλλον του χρήστη εμπλουτισμένο και με άλλα πληροφοριακά στοιχεία. Αφού γίνει μία σύντομη παρουσίαση και σύγκριση των αυτόνομων εφαρμογών AR και των εφαρμογών AR στον Ιστό (Web AR), παρουσιάζονται οι πιο βασικές πλατφόρμες ανάπτυξης Web AR και εξετάζεται κατά πόσο είναι κατάλληλες για την ανάπτυξη της εν λόγω εφαρμογής. Στη συνέχεια παρουσιάζεται η διαδικασία ανάπτυξης της εφαρμογής με την web-based πλατφόρμα Blippar.
Editorial
Authors: ΣΙΑΚΑΣ Σπύρος , Σοφός Αλιβίζος (Λοΐζος)
Published: June 2023

Το παρόν τεύχος αποτελεί την κύρια έκδοση του πέμπτου χρόνου λειτουργίας του επιστημονικού περιοδικού “Animation, Film, Interactive Media in Education and Culture (Afimec)”.  Αυτή η κύρια έκδοση φιλοξενεί άρθρα που καλύπτουν τόσο θέματα θεωρίας στο γνωστικό πεδίο των οπτικοακουστικών έργων και διαδραστικών μέσων όπως είναι το gaming όσο και θέματα δημιουργίας βίντεο, animation και διαδραστικών μέσων και εφαρμογών μέσα σε ένα ευρύ πολιτισμικό πλαίσιο μιας διεπιστημονικής προσέγγισης.

Η επιλογή των άρθρων καταδεικνύει το εύρος και βάθος πρακτικής εφαρμογής σε ποικίλα πεδία και τις θεωρητικές βάσεις των οπτικοακουστικών παραγωγών. Σε αυτό το τεύχος έχουν συλλεχθεί 11 άρθρα ποικίλης θεματικής
Environmental sampling for SARS-CoV-2 in long term care facilities: lessons from a pilot study
Authors: Kwiatkowska Rachel , Yaxley Nicola , Moore Ginny , Bennett Allan , Donati Matthew , Love Nicola , Vivancos Roberto , Hickman Matthew , Ready Derren R
Published: June 2023

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has highlighted the risk of infection in long-term care facilities (LTCF) and the vulnerability of residents to severe outcomes. Environmental surveillance may help detect pathogens early and inform Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in these settings.

Methods: Upon notification of SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks, LTCF within a local authority in South West England were approached to take part in this pilot study. Investigators visited to swab common touch-points and elevated ‘non-touch’ surfaces (>1.5m above ground level) and samples were analysed for presence of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material (RNA). Data were collected regarding LTCF infrastructure, staff behaviours, clinical and epidemiological risk factors for infection (staff and residents), and IPC measures.

Criteria for success were: recruitment of three LTCF; detection of SARS-COV-2 RNA; variation in proportion of SARS-CoV-2 positive surfaces by sampling zone; and collection of clinical and epidemiological data for context.

Results: Three LTCFs were recruited, ranging in size and resident demographics. Outbreaks lasted 63, 50 and 30 days with resident attack rates of 53%, 40% and 8%, respectively. The proportion of sample sites on which SARS-CoV-2 was detected was highest in rooms occupied by infected residents and varied elsewhere in the LTCF, with low levels in a facility implementing enhanced IPC measures. The heterogeneity of settings and difficulty obtaining data made it unfeasible to assess association between environmental contamination and infection. A greater proportion of elevated surfaces tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA than common touch-points.

Conclusions: SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be detected in a variety of LTCF outbreak settings, both on common-touch items and in elevated sites out of reach. This suggests that further work is justified, to assess feasibility and utility of environmental sampling for infection surveillance in LTCF.
Surgical results of only antegrade del Nido cardioplegia infusion in conventional coronary artery bypass grafting: a retrospective study
Authors: Park Sang-Uk , Bae Yo Han , Kim Yun Seok , Song Kyungsub , Jang Woo Sung
Published: June 2023

Background: Additional retrograde cardioplegia infusion in conventional coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) was introduced to address the concern of inappropriate cardioplegia delivery through the stenotic coronary artery. However, this method is complex and requires repeated infusions. Therefore, we investigated the surgical outcomes of only antegrade cardioplegia infusion in conventional CABG.Methods: We included 224 patients who underwent isolated CABG between 2017 and 2019. The patients were divided into two groups according to the cardioplegia infusion method: antegrade cardioplegia infusion with del Nido solution (n=111, group I) and antegrade+retrograde cardioplegia infusion with blood cardioplegia solution (n=113, group II).Results: The sinus recovery time after release of the aorta cross-clamp was shorter in group I (3.8±7.1 minutes, n=98) than in group II (5.8±4.1 minutes, n=73) (p=0.033). The total cardioplegia infusion volume was lower in group I (1,998.6±668.6 mL) than in group II (7,321.0±2,865.3 mL) (p<0.001). Creatine kinase-MB levels were significantly lower in group I than in group II (p=0.039). Newly developed regional wall motion abnormalities on follow-up echocardiography were detected in two patients (1.8%) in group I and five patients (4.4%) in group II (p=0.233). There was no significant difference in ejection fraction improvement between the two groups (3.3%±9.3% in group I and 3.3%±8.7% in group II, p=0.990).Conclusion: The only antegrade cardioplegia infusion strategy in conventional CABG is safe and has no harmful effects.
Project management: Project Management
Authors: Citeladze David
Published: June 2023

The textbook outlines modern concepts and methodology of project management, which must be mastered when studying the discipline "Project Management". The textbook materials are based on the recommendations of the Methodological Association of Project Management (International Project Management Association, IPMA) and the international standards ISO 21500 and 21502.
The textbook materials contribute to the development of students' necessary competencies in accordance with the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation in the direction of "Management".
For university students and postgraduates studying management. It can be used in practice by managers and specialists associated with project management in organizations of various profiles.
Pozostałości wielokulturowej osady w Inowrocławiu, stanowisko 92a, pow. inowrocławski, woj. kujawsko-pomorskie
Authors: Rembisz-Lubiejewska Anna , Kocińska Maria
Published: June 2023

W tekście przedstawiono wyniki badań wielokulturowej osady badanej w 2011 roku w Inowrocławiu. Na podstawie zarejestrowanych materiałów źródłowych ustalono, że badany teren był zagospodarowany z przerwami, od neolitu do nowożytności. Pozyskane materiały i odsłonięte obiekty powiązano z osadnictwem kultury amfor kulistych, łużyckiej, jastorfskiej oraz przeworskiej. W północno-wschodniej części wyniesienia starsze struktury osadnicze zostały zniszczone przez nowożytne wybierzyska gliny.
Device for transosseous osteosynthesis at thefractures of the clave
Authors: Bodnya A. , Butenko L. , Vadatursky M.
Published: June 2023

The article presents a technical solution to the issues of external osteosynthesis in the treatment of clavicle fractures, which is mainly characterized by insufficient capabilities inherent in the structures to move fragments in different directions and planes. Purpose: to establish the distinctive features of the known external devices used in the osteosynthesis of clavicle fractures, and to develop a design taking into account the identified shortcomings. Material and methods: based on the identified shortcomings in various author's designs, an original device was developed for the treatment of patients with fractures of the considered localization. The use of the device involves the use of stabilizing and repositioning screw rods, which are inserted through the proximal and distal fragments of the clavicle. A feature of the introduction of these screw rods is that they are located relative to each other at an angle of 90°, which ensures stable fixation of fragments of the clavicle in all planes. The method of rod fixation developed in the clinic allows for controlled reposition using repositioning nodes, the mobility of which is possible in three planes. Stable fixation of fragments of the clavicle is maintained until the fracture heals, while ensuring the function of the shoulder and elbow joints. Conclusions: evaluation of the technical results of the device showed that external osteosynthesis can be the method of choice for treatment and have practical application in trauma departments.
Słowo od Redakcji
Authors: Barańska Katarzyna
Published: June 2023

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Randkując z dinozaurem — niestandardowe inicjatywy muzeów w mediach społecznościowych
Authors: Kosińska Olga
Published: June 2023

Jednym z efektów obostrzeń pandemicznych, który z pewnością zostanie z instytucjami kultury w Polsce, jest konieczność nieustającej komunikacji ze swoimi (także potencjalnymi) odbiorcami z pomocą różnorakich narzędzi wirtualnych. Okres ograniczenia możliwości zapraszania ich do siedzib tych organizacji dobitnie pokazał, jak istotną dla zbudowania i utrzymania wokół danego podmiotu lojalnej publiczności jest przemyślana działalność zwłaszcza z pomocą mediów społecznościowych.
Główne kierunki działalności kulturalnoedukacyjnej współczesnych muzeów białoruskich
Authors: Lupashko Irina , Marmysh Tatsiana
Published: June 2023

W artykule zostały wskazane kierunki działalności kulturalno-edukacyjnej we współczesnych muzeach białoruskich. Na początku została pokrótce scharakteryzowana publiczność muzealna. Postawiono tezę, że rozpoznanie odbiorców powinno być brane pod uwagę przy tworzeniu oferty muzealnej. Następnie zostały opisane tradycyjne i nowatorskie formy oraz metody pracy z publicznością. Przywołane zostały także liczne przykłady ich realizacji.
Weto w ustroju szwajcarskim i liechtensteińskim jako konstytucyjne prawo suwerena
Authors: Łukaszewski Marcin
Published: June 2023

VETO IN THE SWISS AND LIECHTENSTEIN SYSTEMS AS A CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT OF A SOVEREIGN
The article is devoted to the place of the sovereign’s veto in the constitutional systems of Switzerland and Liechtenstein in relation to the position of each within the system. Due to the very unique constitutional structure of Switzerland (a special role of the parliament, a wide catalog and high frequency of using direct democracy tools) and Liechtenstein (sovereign defined in two entities – the prince and the nation; the exceptionally strong position of the head of state, who has the right to veto both laws adopted by the parliament and motions in referendums), attempts were made to analyze the political position of sovereigns in both countries, relying solely on the right to block legal acts adopted by the parliament (refusal to sign the law by the prince in Liechtenstein and people’s veto in both countries).
Kwestie kulturowe w referendach szwajcarskich w latach 2000-2020
Authors: Porębski Andrzej
Published: June 2023

CULTURAL ISSUES IN SWISS REFERENDA BETWEEN 2000 AND 2021
Switzerland is one of few countries where popular referenda are an integral part of political life. These can be held on a variety of issues. Out of 186 proposals voted in the country between 2000 and 2021, this article analyses 17 related to culture in its broadest sense. The chosen examples include both specific issues as well as those fundamental to society, such as the right to abortion or the legal status of same-sex marriage. Typically, votes on cultural issues do not draw much public interest. The turnout rarely exceeds 50%, leaving decisions which affect the whole society to a minority of those eligible to vote. It should be stressed that, in some cases, referenda on cultural issues are a clear example of positivist belief that law is man-made.
Analysis of the Issue of Special Clothing in the Operation of Fire Protection Units
Authors: Anna Rabajczyk  , Robert Wolański
Published: June 2023

Aim: The paper is aimed at presenting selected problems of the impact of the incident environment on the body of a firefighter-rescuer who is protected with standard personal protective equipment (PPE). The article is an overview and presents the hazards associated with working in harsh environmental conditions, followed by the characteristics of firefighters’ PPE (in particular, special clothing) that play a key role in such conditions. Introduction: The safety of those involved in a fire incident is a very important issue – both in terms of proper management of human resources and the organization of activities in the situation of the incident and after it. The article presents content related to the impact of selected environments on firefighter-rescuers and the importance of firefighters’ “special clothing” during operations. The information on the influence of hot and cold microclimate environments and chemical activity as a consequence of processes occurring during a fire is presented. The issue of the operation of the complex environment of the tactical field and its impact on those involved in incidents was addressed. Methodology: The article is based on a review of selected literature on the addressed subject. Conclusions: During an incident involving not only operations during a fire, but also after the fire is extinguished, a firefighter-rescuer is simultaneously exposed to many factors. In addition to the stress that accompanies such activities, physical and chemical factors that occur side by side should also be considered, often broadening and intensifying the negative impact. The analysis should cover the fullest possible range of factors to which a person is subjected and allow him/her to be equipped with the appropriate protective tools, which are the firefighter’s PPE. The introduced innovations should be multidirectional and include minimizing the risk of high or low temperatures, inhalation poisoning, or skin contact with toxins. In doing so, it should be kept in mind that changes in the structure and properties of clothing must correspond to both the trends observed in the market, the economy and the dynamics of the course of fire. Therefore, it is necessary to work in parallel in many areas, taking into account the properties of the used materials, the spread and nature of incidents, and the tools at the disposal of the firefighter-rescuer. Keywords: hazard factors, firefighter’s personal protective equipment, firefighter’s special clothing, innovations
Logistic Protection of Volunteer Firefighting Units of the National Rescue and Firefighting System during Long-Term Rescue Operations on the Example of Floods
Authors: Karolina Chmiel  , Michał Chmiel  , Stanisław Smyk
Published: June 2023

Aim: The aim of the article is to present the method of dispatching the units of the Volunteer Fire Service of the national rescue and firefighting system (OSP KSRG) to long-term rescue operations and to characterize the logistic protection of the units during such operations. The example of the 2010 floods in the Świętokrzyskie region was used as the basis for the analysis. Methodology: During the preparation of the article, the method of analysis was used to explore in more depth the issue of logistic protection of units in long-term rescue operations. A critical analysis of the literature on the subject proved important. Also used was a case study of the logistic protection of OSP KSRG units during the 2010 floods in the Świętokrzyskie region. Conclusions: OSP KSRG units involved in a long-term rescue operation do not have their own logistical facilities, additional equipment or stocks of propellants and grease in sufficient quantities. Therefore, there is a need to implement new solutions aimed at modifying the procedures for logistical security of OSP units participating in long-term rescue operations. The analysis of the case study showed that the autonomy of OSP KSRG units in long-term rescue operations should include securing basic supplies: water, food, liquid fuels and grease, as well as the ability to create their own welfare facilities, including their own sleeping bags, as and tents, field beds, blankets, which will allow firefighters to rest on an ad hoc basis during the action. The use by OSP units of logistic protection capabilities based on local field resources requires the development of guidelines and procedures for the use of the resources in question, as well as an indication of the type of services needed. During the development of rescue plans, entities providing specific logistic services to OSP units should be listed. Keywords: Volunteer Fire Service, State Fire Service, national rescue and firefighting system, logistic protection, action logistics, long-term rescue operations
Platoon Optimization Based on Truck Pairs
Authors: Bhoopalam Anirudh Kishore , Agatz Niels , Zuidwijk Rob
Published: June 2023

Truck platooning technology allows trucks to drive at short headways to save fuel and associated emissions. However, fuel savings from platooning are relatively small, so forming platoons should be convenient and associated with minimum detours and delays. In this paper, we focus on developing optimization technology to form truck platoons. We formulate a mathematical program for the platoon routing problem with time windows (PRP-TW) based on a time–space network. We provide polynomial-time algorithms to solve special cases of PRP-TW with two-truck platoons. Based on these special cases, we build several fast heuristics. An extensive set of numerical experiments shows that our heuristics perform well. Moreover, we show that simple two-truck platoons already capture most of the potential savings of platooning.

History: Accepted by Pascal van Hentenryck, Area Editor for Computational Modeling: Methods and Analysis.

Funding: This work was supported by the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) as part of the Spatial and Transport Impacts of Automated Driving [Grant 438-15-161] project.

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplemental Information ( https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2020.0302 ) as well as from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC/2020.0302 ). The complete IJOC Software and Data Repository is available at https://informsjoc.github.io/ .
Navigating cultural competence in district nursing
Authors: Reeve Lucy , Lavery Joanna
Published: June 2023

Cultural diversity is an evolving feature of modern-day society. It is recognised that many factors contribute to culturally competent care and evidence suggests there are still inequalities in care provision to some populations. District nurses (DN) deliver care to individuals', families and communities across varying demographics, and aim to provide high quality evidencebased, person-centred care. The scope of the DN and the community nursing team's practice is far reaching and extends across generations and an array of chronic complex health conditions. Therefore, it is imperative that DNs are aware of aspects surrounding cultural diversity, to ensure they can holistically assess and manage patients on their caseloads and support teams to practice culturally competent care.

This article aims to provide an outline of key areas for exploration in cultural competence. It will highlight communication, pain, end of life, nutrition and health disparities to consider barriers and challenges for district nursing practice.
A guide to diagnosing and treating benign prostatic hypertrophy
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: June 2023

Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) is a condition where the prostate becomes enlarged. It affects all men and is part of the ageing process. Globally, the incidence rates of BPH have risen by 70% between 2000-2019. When left untreated, it can lead to acute urinary retention, impaired bladder emptying, urinary tract infections, bladder stones, kidney failure or gross haematuria. In this article, Linda Nazarko describes the causes and consequences of BPH along with treatment options that are available for it.
Direct distortion prediction method for AR-HUD dynamic distortion correction
Authors: Yu Fangzheng , Xu Nan , Chen Shiqi , Feng Huajun , Xu Zhihai , Li Qi , Jiang Tingting , Chen Yueting
Published: June 2023

Dynamic distortion is one of the most critical factors affecting the experience of
automotive augmented reality head-up displays (AR-HUDs). A wide range
of views and the extensive display area result in extraordinarily
complex distortions. Existing methods based on the neural network
first obtain distorted images and then get the predistorted data for
training mostly. This paper proposes a distortion prediction framework
based on the neural network. It directly trains the network with the
distorted data, realizing dynamic adaptation for AR-HUD distortion
correction and avoiding errors in coordinate interpolation.
Additionally, we predict the distortion offsets instead of the
distortion coordinates and present a field of view (FOV)-weighted loss
function based on the spatial-variance characteristic to further
improve the prediction accuracy of distortion. Experiments show that
our methods improve the prediction accuracy of AR-HUD dynamic
distortion without increasing the network complexity or data
processing overhead.
Visual and Physiological Optics: introduction to the joint feature issue in Biomedical Optics Express and Journal of the Optical Society of America A
Authors: Tabernero Juan , Lundström Linda , Schwarz Christina , Vohnsen Brian
Published: June 2023

This feature issue collects articles presented at the tenth Visual and Physiological Optics meeting (VPO2022), held August 29–31, 2022, in Cambridge, UK. This joint feature issue between Biomedical Optics Express and Journal of the Optical Society of America A includes articles that cover the broad range of topics addressed at the meeting and examples of the current state of research in the field.
High-brightness holographic projection
Authors: Chao Brian , Gopakumar Manu , Choi Suyeon , Wetzstein Gordon
Published: June 2023

We propose a holographic projection system that achieves high image quality, brightness, and light efficiency. Using a novel, to the best of our knowledge, light-efficiency loss function, we are able to concentrate more light on the projection region and improve display brightness compared with conventional projectors. Leveraging emerging artificial intelligence-driven computer-generated holography and camera-in-the-loop calibration techniques, we learn a holographic wave propagation model using experimentally captured holographic images and demonstrate state-of-the-art light reallocation performance with high image quality.
Modeling off-axis diffraction with the least-sampling angular spectrum method
Authors: Wei Haoyu , Liu Xin , Hao Xiang , Lam Edmund Y. , Peng Yifan
Published: June 2023

Accurately yet efficiently simulating off-axis diffraction is vital to design large-scale computational optics, but existing rigid sampling and modeling schemes fail to address this. Herein, we establish a universal least-sampling angular spectrum method that enables efficient off-axis diffraction modeling with high accuracy. Specifically, by employing the Fourier transform’s shifting property to convert off-axis diffraction to quasi-on-axis, and by linking the angular spectrum to the transfer function, essential sampling requirements can be thoroughly optimized and adaptively determined across computation. Leveraging a flexible matrix-based Fourier transform, we demonstrate the off-axis point spread function of exemplary coded-aperture imaging systems. For the first time, to our knowledge, a significant speed boost of around 36× over the state of the art at 20° is demonstrated, and so is the viability of computing ultra-large angles such as 35° within seconds on a commercial computer. The applicability to high-frequency modulation is further investigated.
Optomechanical preparation of photon number-squeezed states with a pair of thermal reservoirs of opposite temperatures
Authors: Zhu Baiqiang , Zhang Keye , Zhang Weiping
Published: June 2023

Photon number-squeezed states are of significant value in fundamental quantum research and have a wide range of applications in quantum metrology. Most of their preparation mechanisms require precise control of quantum dynamics and are less tolerant to dissipation. We propose a mechanism that is not subject to these restraints. In contrast to common approaches, we exploit the self-balancing between two types of dissipation induced by positive- and negative-temperature reservoirs to generate steady states with sub-Poissonian statistical distributions of photon numbers. We also show how to implement this mechanism with cavity optomechanical systems. The quality of the prepared photon number-squeezed state is estimated by our theoretical model combined with realistic parameters for various typical optomechanical systems.
Heterogeneous optomechanical crystal cavity coupled by a wavelength-scale mechanical waveguide
Authors: Luo Yang , Huang Hongyi , Wan Lei , Liu Weiping , Li Zhaohui
Published: June 2023

Integrated optomechanical crystal (OMC) cavities provide a vital device prototype for highly efficient microwave to optical conversion in quantum information processing. In this work, we propose a novel heterogeneous OMC cavity consisting of a thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) slab and chalcogenide (ChG) photonic crystal nanobeam coupled by a wavelength-scale mechanical waveguide. The optomechanical coupling rate of the heterogeneous OMC cavity is optimized up to 340 kHz at 1.1197 GHz. Combined with phononic band and power decomposition, 17.38% energy from the loaded RF power is converted into dominant fundamental horizontal shear mode (SH0) in the narrow LN mechanical waveguide. Based on this fraction, as a result, 3.51% power relative to the loaded RF energy is scattered into the fundamental longitudinal mode (L0) facing the TFLN-ChG heterogeneous waveguide. The acoustic breathing mode of the heterogeneous OMC is successfully excited under the driving of the propagating L0 mode in the heterogeneous waveguide, demonstrating the great potentials of the heterogeneous piezo-optomechanical transducer in high-performance photon–phonon interaction fields.
Outcomes and clinical implications of intranasal insulin on cognition in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Sally , Stogios Nicolette , Hahn Margaret , Navagnanavel Janani , Emami Zahra , Chintoh Araba , Gerretsen Philip , Graff-Guerrero Ariel , Rajji Tarek K. , Remington Gary , Agarwal Sri Mahavir
Published: June 2023

Background

Aberrant brain insulin signaling has been posited to lie at the crossroads of several metabolic and cognitive disorders. Intranasal insulin (INI) is a non-invasive approach that allows investigation and modulation of insulin signaling in the brain while limiting peripheral side effects.

Objectives

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the effects of INI on cognition in diverse patient populations and healthy individuals.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane CENTRAL were systematically searched from 2000 to July 2021. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials that studied the effects of INI on cognition. Two independent reviewers determined study eligibility and extracted relevant descriptive and outcome data.

Results

Twenty-nine studies (pooled N = 1,726) in healthy individuals as well as those with Alzheimer’s disease (AD)/mild cognitive impairment (MCI), mental health disorders, metabolic disorders, among others, were included in the quantitative meta-analysis. Patients with AD/MCI treated with INI were more likely to show an improvement in global cognition (SMD = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.05–0.38 p = <0.00001, N = 12 studies). Among studies with healthy individuals and other patient populations, no significant effects of INI were found for global cognition.

Conclusions

This review demonstrates that INI may be associated with pro-cognitive benefits for global cognition, specifically for individuals with AD/MCI. Further studies are required to better understand the neurobiological mechanisms and differences in etiology to dissect the intrinsic and extrinsic factors contributing to the treatment response of INI.