bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Update on Retinal Drug Safety: Proceedings of the ASRS ReST Committee Webinar Part 1
Authors: Girgis Jessica M. , Baumal Caroline R. , Witkin Andre J. , Vajzovic Lejla , Goldberg Roger A. , Kaiser Peter , Arevalo J. Fernando , Choudhry Netan , Schneider Eric , Tabandeh Homayoun , Wong Robert
Published: August 2024

Purpose: To review the first Research and Safety in Therapeutics (ReST) Committee webinar and summarize the most current recommendations regarding diagnosis and management. Methods: The ReST Committee is comprised of members of the American Society of Retina Surgeons (ASRS). At regular internal meetings, safety issue reports from the website are reviewed. A webinar series was started in 2021 to update members on multiple relevant potential safety events. Results: Topics reviewed in the webinar included pentosan polysulfate sodium (Elmiron) maculopathy, intraocular pressure elevation reported with the aflibercept prefilled syringe (PFS), and brolucizumab-associated inflammation with occlusive retinal vasculitis. Retinal toxicity related to intraoperative medications was reviewed, including hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis after intraocular vancomycin, dilution errors with intravitreal aminoglycosides, inadvertent overdoses of cefuroxime after cataract surgery, and toxic posterior segment syndrome after dropless cataract surgery using compounded triamcinolone–moxifloxacin. Indocyanine green toxicity has been reported after its use as an adjuvant during macular hole surgery. Conclusions: The past decade has seen advances in retinal pharmaceuticals and drug-delivery devices. The ASRS ReST Committee collects data from its website reporting system to inform members about up-to-date pharmaceutical and device safety concerns. Recently, a webinar was used to inform members of pigmentary maculopathy associated with pentosan polysulfate sodium, safety regarding the aflibercept PFS, intraocular inflammation and occlusive retinal vasculitis secondary to brolucizumab, and retinal toxicity from intraoperative ocular medications.
MANAGING RISKS IN DIGITAL GLOBALIZATION
Authors: Nambisan Satish , Luo Yadong
Published: August 2024

For multinationals, the benefits of digital globalization are clear, but not the inherent business risks. Nambisan and Luo offer a practical framework to evaluate and manage the risks of digital globalization.
Digital Strategies for Managing Global Operations in a Geopolitically Fragmented World
Authors: Nambisan Satish
Published: August 2024

Both global and local forces have become more intense and mercurial. Satish Nambisan offers a framework that the leaders of multinationals can use to develop and deploy digital strategies, improving global operations to meet these novel market conditions.
Identifying and Overcoming Barriers to Implementing Blockchain in Supply Chains
Authors: Yen-Ting Lin , Pyke David F. , Swaminathan Jayashankar M.
Published: August 2024

Yen-Ting Lin, David F. Pyke, and Jayashankar M. Swaminathan describe the application of blockchain to supply chain traceability, highlighting common barriers to implementing blockchain and approaches that companies have used to overcome these barriers.
Is Social E-commerce the Future of Online Shopping?
Authors: Sinha Ashish , Bagri Prakash , Pedada Kiran , Srivastava Rajendra
Published: August 2024

Ashish Sinha, Prakash Bagri, Kiran Pedada, and Rajendra Srivastava explore the reasons for the meteoric rise of social e-commerce and consider what traditional managers can learn from it.
Wizenoze: The Value of Engaging the Customer’s Customer
Authors: Puntoni Stefano
Published: August 2024

Stefano Puntoni examines how Wizenoze, a Dutch educational technology startup, uses AI to match educational content to each learner’s reading skills. The case illustrates how AI can allow service personalization at scale in order to increase user engagement and satisfaction.
INFOSYS: AI Helps Build Customer Engagement to Ace the Tennis Game
Authors: Rammohan Navin , Pandya Mukul
Published: August 2024

Navin Rammohan and Mukul Pandya describe Infosys Courtvision, which allows tennis fans to visualize the data points of their favorite players during the match, seconds after the point is played out. This AI and 3D tech-powered feature has existed since the late 2000s on broadcast television, but never before have fans had access.
AI FOR CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT AT GOOGLE
Authors: Frank Tim , Gaur Aastha , Gupta Abheek , Neubauer Doris , Suttle Ian , Cheng Leo , Mason Natalie , Zhang Qiushuang , Narasimhan Ravi , Karachinsky Roman , Beri Sandeep , Upadhyay Shashi , Li Tony , Ge Vicky
Published: August 2024

Google had the opportunity, directly or through its representatives, to apply the best research on artificial intelligence and machine learning to its interactions with customers, transforming its approach and creating more value for its customers. Tim Frank and Google’s customer engagement leadership team describe this AI transformation, rooted in prioritizing customers.
Saving Lives with AI: Lessons in Personalization and Engagement
Authors: Briggs Rex , Friedhoff Stefanie , Lundberg Erik
Published: August 2024

Rex Briggs, Stefanie Friedhoff, and Erik Lundberg describe how the Ad Council rose to the challenge of educating people about the COVID-19 vaccination by using AI personalization to get the right message to the right person. The council’s work not only saved lives and reduced hospitalizations, it also demonstrated that AI personalization can increase engagement and improve advertising results.
Chemokine receptors are required for effector T-cell trafficking to GVHD tissues but not to bone marrow
Authors: Zhao Kai , Zhu Jieqing , Rosenberger Sarah , Zhou Meng , Shlomchik Warren D.
Published: August 2024

In allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT), alloreactive donor T cells mediate the graft-versus-leukemia effect but also attack nonhematopoietic tissues, causing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Reducing alloreactive T-cell trafficking to GVHD target tissues while allowing their access to bone marrow (BM) and spleen, major sites of malignant hematopoiesis, is a rational strategy for reducing the GVHD risk when using alloreactive T cells as a therapeutic. Here, we show that effector T-cell (Teff) entry into BM and spleen in unmanipulated mice and in mice that received transplantation without alloreactive T cells is augmented by pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive chemokine receptor signaling. However, unexpectedly, in the presence of a GVH response, chemokines no longer draw T cells into BM and spleen but remain critical for their recruitment to GVHD target tissues. Consistent with this, PTX-treated Teff cells were as efficacious as untreated T cells in killing leukemia cells in BM and spleen in mice with a concurrent GVHD response. These results suggest a strategy to improve the safety of alloreactive T-cell therapeutics in treating leukemias in the context of an allo-SCT.
Haploidentical vs HLA-matched sibling donor HCT with PTCy prophylaxis: HLA factors and donor age considerations
Authors: Mehta Rohtesh S. , Ramdial Jeremy , Kebriaei Partow , Champlin Richard E. , Popat Uday , Rezvani Katayoun , Shpall Elizabeth J.
Published: August 2024

HLA-matched sibling donors (MSDs) are preferred for hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). However, the use of alternative donors, especially haploidentical, is increasing, as is our understanding of the impact of HLA factors such as B-leader and DRB1-matching on its outcomes. Yet, data comparing these donor types, particularly considering these HLA factors, is lacking. Herein, we compared haploidentical-HCT (n = 1052) with MSD-HCT (n = 400), both with posttransplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy)-based graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis. In multivariate analysis, haploidentical group had similar overall survival (OS; hazard ratio (HR), 0.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.78-1.14; P = .54), nonrelapse mortality (HR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.72-1.32; P = .87), and relapse (HR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.70-1.08; P = .20) as the MSD group. Younger donor age was a significant predictor of improved OS. Next, we directly compared the outcomes of “younger” haploidentical (donor age <35 years, n = 347) vs an “older” MSD (donor age ≥50 years, n = 143) in older recipients (patient age ≥50 years). Patients with younger haploidentical B-leader–matched donors had significantly superior OS (HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.48-0.90; P = .009) than the older MSD group. Additionally, patients with younger DRB1-mismatched haploidentical donors (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.46-0.87; P = .004) had significantly lower risk of relapse than older MSDs. Our study suggests that haploidentical-HCT may offer comparable outcomes to MSD-PTCy HCT. Moreover, among older patients, a younger haploidentical B-leader–matched donor might be preferable to an older MSD. These findings need validation in larger data sets.
The effect of surgical margin features on oncologic outcomes after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Aydamirov Mubariz , Deger Mutlu , Akdogan Nebil , Yilmaz Ismail Onder , Yucel Karakaya Sevinc Puren , Toyran Tugba , Erdogan Seyda , Bayazit Yildirim , Izol Volkan
Published: August 2024

Background

Evaluation of the effect of additional surgical margin parameters on biochemical recurrence (BCR) in patients with positive surgical margins (PSM) after radical prostatectomy (RP).

Methods

Clinicopathological and outcome data from 91 patients with PSM who underwent RP were retrospectively analyzed. Additional surgical margin parameters (PSM length, highest Gleason grade (GG), localization of PSM (apex, bladder neck, or posterolateral), and unifocality or multifocality) were examined and their effects on BCR were investigated.

Results

Fifty patients with PSM were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 63.6 ± 6.9 years. The laparoscopic approach was undertaken more frequently, used for 36 (72%) patients compared to open RP performed in 14 cases (28%). The median follow-up time was 57.0 months (24.0–125.0 months). BCR developed in 14 (28%) patients during the follow-up period. Although mean BCR-free survival was shorter in cases with PSM length ≥ 3 mm compared to those with PSM length < 3 mm (90.4 vs. 108.2 months), multifocality compared to those with unifocality (62 vs. 97.4 months) and surgical margin GG ≥ 4 compared to those with GG 3 (87.4 vs. 97.5 months), the differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.251, p = 0.509 and p = 0.317, respectively). In addition, none of the PSM localizations affected BCR-free survival (p = 0.619). In univariate Cox regression analysis, PSM length affected BCR at a level close to statistical significance (HR = 1.16; p = 0.052). In multiple Cox regression analysis, main tumor Gleason score was determined to be a risk factor associated with BCR (HR = 4.75; p = 0.041).

Conclusions

Although BCR-free survival was shortened in the presence of poor prognostic features (multifocal PSM, PSM length ≥ 3 mm, surgical margin GG ≥ 4) at the surgical margin, none of these parameters affected BCR at a statistically significant level. Gleason score of the main tumor was found to be a better prognostic factor for BCR.
Esophageal cancers missed at upper endoscopy in Central Norway 2004 to 2021 – A population-based study
Authors: Straum Synne , Wollan Karoline , Rekstad Lars Cato , Fossmark Reidar
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The incidence of esophageal cancers is increasing in many Western countries and the rate of missed esophageal cancers (MEC) at upper endoscopy is of concern. We aimed to calculate the MEC rate and identify factors associated with MEC.

Methods

This was a retrospective population-based cohort study including 613 patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer in Central Norway 2004–2021. MEC was defined as esophageal cancer diagnosed 6–36 months after a non-diagnostic upper endoscopy. Patient characteristics, tumor localization, histological type and cTNM stage were recorded. Symptoms, endoscopic findings, use of sedation and endoscopists experience at the endoscopy prior to esophageal cancer diagnosis and at the time of diagnosis were recorded. The association between these factors and MEC was assessed.

Results

Forty-nine (8.0%) of 613 cancers were MEC. There was a significant increase in annual numbers of esophageal cancer (p < 0.001) as well as of MEC (p = 0.009), but MEC rate did not change significantly (p = 0.382). The median time from prior upper endoscopy to MEC diagnosis was 22.9 (12.1–28.6) months. MEC patients were older and were diagnosed with disease with a lower cTNM stage and cT category than non-missed cancers, whereas tumor localization and histological type were similar between the groups. The use of sedation or endoscopist experience did not differ between the endoscopy prior to esophageal cancer diagnosis and at the time of diagnosis. High proportions of MEC patients had Barrett’s esophagus (n = 25, 51.0%), hiatus hernia (n = 26, 53.1%), esophagitis (n = 10, 20.4%) or ulceration (n = 4, 8.2%). Significant proportions of MECs were diagnosed after inappropriate follow-up of endoscopic Barrett’s esophagus, histological dysplasia or ulcerations.

Conclusions

The annual number of MEC increased during the study period, while the MEC rate remained unchanged. Endoscopic findings related to gastroesophageal reflux disease such as esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus were identified in a high proportion of patients with subsequent MECs. Cautious follow-up of these patients could potentially reduce MEC-rate.
Dispatcher nurses’ experiences of handling drones equipped with automated external defibrillators in suspected out-of-hospital cardiac arrest - a qualitative study
Authors: Hanna Dalby-Pedersen , Erika Bergström , Ellinor Berglund , Sofia Schierbeck , Leif Svensson , Anette Nord , Jacob Hollenberg , Andreas Claesson
Published: August 2024

Background

Reducing the time to treatment by means of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation is essential to increasing survival after cardiac arrest. A novel method of dispatching drones for delivery of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to the site of a suspected out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) has been shown to be feasible, with the potential to shorten response times compared with the emergency medical services. However, little is known of dispatchers’ experiences of using this novel methodology.

Methods

A qualitative semi-structured interview study with a phenomenological approach was used. Ten registered nurses employed at an emergency medical dispatch centre in Gothenburg, Sweden, were interviewed and the data was analysed by qualitative content analysis. The purpose was to explore dispatcher nurses’ experiences of deliveries of AEDs by drones in cases of suspected OHCA.

Results

Three categories were formed. Nurses expressed varying compliance to the telephone-assisted protocol for dispatch of AED-equipped drones. They experienced uncertainty as to how long would be an acceptable interruption from the CPR protocol in order to retrieve a drone-delivered AED. The majority experienced that collegial support was important. Technical support, routines and training need to be improved to further optimise action in cases of drone-delivered AEDs handled by dispatcher nurses.

Conclusions

Although telephone-assisted routines for drone dispatch in cases of OHCA were available, their use was rare. Registered nurses showed variable degrees of understanding of how to comply with these protocols. Collegial and technical support was considered important, alongside routines and training, which need to be improved to further support bystander use of drone-delivered AEDs. As the possibilities of using drones to deliver AEDs in cases of OHCA are explored more extensively globally, there is a good possibility that this study could be of benefit to other nations implementing similar methods. We present concrete aspects that are important to take into consideration when implementing this kind of methodology at dispatch centres.
Prevalence of video gaming disorder in Saudi Arabia: a school-based national study
Authors: Alfaleh Amjad , Alzaher Abrar , Alkattan Abdullah , Alabdulkareem Khaled , Ibrahim Mona H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Video gaming is a popular leisure activity among adolescents. Those who play excessively are in danger of educational and social drawbacks and may become addicted to video gaming. Several published studies determined the prevalence of GD among children in specific Saudi regions. However, the current study assessed the national prevalence of video gaming disorder (GD) and its risk factors among school students in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A school-based survey was conducted among adolescents in all regions of Saudi Arabia during the academic year 2021–2022. A multistage stratified cluster sampling technique was used to select the school students. An Arabic-validated version of the 9-item dichotomous (yes/no) GD Scale based on the DSM-5 criteria was used to determine GD prevalence among the students. The score ranged from zero to nine (0–9). Participants who scored five or more were deemed as having GD. Students who scored less than five were classified as normal gamers (score 0–1) or risky gamers (score 2–4).

Results

 We recruited 5332 school students. Their mean age was 15.5 ± 1.7 years, and almost half of them were males (50.7%). According to the GD score, the prevalence of normal gamers was 39.08% (N = 1714), risky gamers 40.47% (N = 1775), and those with GD was, 20.45% (N = 897). Logistic regression was performed to determine the association between video gaming disorder and all the gathered variables, which include age, educational grade, sex, types of video gaming, and categories of video games played. The results showed that nationality, age, educational grade, sex, using only mobile devices to play, and playing puzzle and sports games were not associated with video gaming disorder. On the other hand, it was revealed that using tablets, game consoles, PCs; having multiple devices; and playing online, fighting, car racing, war, and adventure games were significantly linked to GD.

Conclusion

The prevalence of GD was 20.45% among Saudi school students who play video games. Utilizing more than one type of gaming device and playing games in the fighting, war, and multiplayer categories via an online connection were significantly linked to having GD. To limit video gaming addiction, we encourage screening, diagnosing, and treating disordered video gamers early. In addition, governmental authorities and video game companies should discuss and revise numerous policy measures to minimize the accessibility of video games, limit the harms and risks related to them, and assist video gamers in becoming effective members of society.
Mind the Gap: Investigating Disaggregated Student Performance in an Upper-Division Biochemistry Course Following Team-Based Learning
Authors: Woodbury Jacob , Offerdahl Erika
Published: August 2024

Team-Based Learning (TBL) is a highly intense form of active learning with established benefits. We inquired whether performance gaps connected to students’ identities observed in undergraduate STEM persisted in TBL environment, but found none. The course environment, survivorship bias, and our limited set of backgrounds may explain our findings.
Breast Cancer Screening Interval: Effect on Rate of Late-Stage Disease at Diagnosis and Overall Survival
Authors: Zuley Margarita L. , Bandos Andriy I. , Duffy Stephen W. , Logue Durwin , Bhargava Rohit , McAuliffe Priscilla F. , Brufsky Adam M. , Nishikawa Robert M.
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

Controversy continues regarding the effect of screening mammography on breast cancer outcomes. We evaluated late-stage cancer rate and overall survival (OS) for different screening intervals using a real-world institutional research data mart.

METHODS

Patients having both a cancer registry record of new breast cancer diagnosis and prediagnosis screening history between 2004 and 2019 were identified from our institutional research breast data mart. Time interval between the two screening mammograms immediately preceding diagnosis and the time to cancer diagnosis were determined. Screening interval was deemed annual if ≤15 months, biennial if >15 and ≤27 months, intermittent if >27 months, and baseline if only one prediagnosis screen was known. The primary end point was late-stage cancer (TNM stage IIB or worse), and the secondary end point was OS. The association of screening interval and late-stage cancer was analyzed using multivariable logistic regression adjusting for prediagnosis characteristics. Proportional hazards regression was used for survival analysis. Potential lead time was analyzed using survival from a uniform fixed time point.

RESULTS

In total, 8,145 patients with breast cancer had prediagnosis screening mammography in the timeframe. The percentage of late-stage cancers diagnosed increased significantly with screening interval with 9%, 14%, and 19% late stages for annual, biennial, and intermittent groups (
P
< .001), respectively. The trend persisted regardless of age, race, and menopausal status. Biennial and intermittent groups had substantially worse OS than the annual screened group, with relative hazards of 1.42 (95% CI, 1.11 to 1.82) and 2.69 (95% CI, 2.11 to 3.43), respectively, and 1.39 (95% CI, 1.08 to 1.78) and 2.01 (95% CI, 1.58 to 2.55) after adjustment for potential lead time.

CONCLUSION

Annual mammographic screening was associated with lower risk of late-stage cancer and better OS across clinical and demographic subgroups. Our study suggests benefit of annual screening for women 40 years and older.
Reconstructive Endovascular Treatment of Compensative-Flow–Related Posterior Circulation Aneurysms With Anterior Circulation Artery Occlusion
Authors: Quan Tao , Zhang Xin , Li Jinyi , Wang Zhaofei , Fu Xiaojie , Feng Xin , Xu Haowen , Duan Chuanzhi , Guan Sheng
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The aim of this study was to delineate the reconstructive endovascular treatment and periprocedural management of compensative-flow–related posterior circulation aneurysms with anterior circulation artery occlusion.

METHODS:

A total of 87 patients were enrolled in this retrospective double-center cohort study from May 2011 to November 2023. The baseline demographics, aneurysm characteristics, etiology and status of anterior circulation artery occlusion, treatment modalities, anesthesia management, complications, and clinical and angiographic outcomes of the patients were retrospectively analyzed in this study.

RESULTS:

Atherosclerosis and moyamoya disease were found to be the two main etiologies of anterior circulation artery occlusion. The mean American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology scores were significantly higher in patients with posterior communicating artery trunk collaterals than those with posterior cerebral artery pial collaterals (P < .05). Treatment strategies included stent-assisted coiling (55, 63.2%), standard coiling (22, 25.3%), and flow diversion or flow diversion–assisted coiling (8, 9.2%). The overall rate of procedure-related ischemic and hemorrhagic complications (10.3%) was considered acceptable. The ischemic complication was significantly associated with a >20% drop in mean arterial pressure (P < .05) during the procedure. Finally, 86.2% of all patients showed a modified Rankin Scale score of 0 to 2 at the final clinical follow-up.

CONCLUSION:

Our study indicates that reconstructive endovascular treatments are feasible and effective strategies for compensative-flow–related posterior circulation aneurysms with anterior circulation artery occlusion. However, these treatments are associated with a risk of periprocedural ischemic complications, which can be reduced by collateral arterial assessment, appropriate periprocedural anesthesia management, and antiplatelet treatment.
Individual-specific associations between warble song notes and body movements in budgerigar courtship displays
Authors: Wewhare Nakul , Krishnan Anand
Published: August 2024

Complex behavioral sequences such as courtship displays are often multimodal, and coordination between modalities is critically important. In learned and variable behavioural sequences such as songs, individual variability may also extend to multimodal coordination and the associations between modalities. However, individual variability in complex multimodal sequences and in coordination between distinct behaviours remains underexplored. Here, we report that budgerigars, which continuously learn and modify their complex warble songs, exhibit associations between body movements and song notes during courtship. Some associations are unique to individuals, and others are universal across individuals. Additionally, some individuals exhibit more unique associations than others. We also find that birds warbling in the absence of body movements emit all notes with broadly similar odds ratios. Our data suggest a hierarchy of associations, some individual-specific and others common to all individuals, between body movements and songs. We propose that these associations may be learnt and modified through social interactions, resulting in individual variability.
Genotoxic effects in island populations of Cartagena de Indias, Colombia due to environmental exposure to mercury and cadmium
Authors: Cano-Pérez Eder , Gómez-Camargo Doris , Malambo-García Dacia
Published: August 2024

Background Contamination of Cartagena Bay, Colombia with heavy metals such as mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd) presents a major environmental and public health concern, particularly for human communities residing on nearby islands and coastal areas. These populations face enhanced exposure risks owing to their traditional fishing practices and continuous interactions with polluted marine environments. This study aimed to evaluate the genotoxic effects of environmental exposure to Hg and Cd in populations from the island zone of the Cartagena district, Bolívar. Methods Ninety-four individuals from the four island communities (study group) and 30 individuals from the urban area of Cartagena (control group) participated in this study. The blood samples were collected to measure total mercury (T-Hg) and Cd concentrations, and a Buccal Micronucleus Cytome (BMCyt) assay was used to evaluate exposure effects. Results Cadmiun levels in the blood of the study group were within the normal range and comparable to those of the control group (p > 0.05). However, the study group exhibited significantly higher T-Hg levels (7.34 μg/L) compared to the control group (2.01 μg/L), surpassing the accepted limit. Moreover, the study group showed a higher incidence of DNA damage and cell death biomarkers (p < 0.05). Additionally, significant correlations were observed between total blood Hg levels and the frequencies of micronuclei, karyorrhexis, and karyolysis. Conclusion These results suggest that island populations of Cartagena are exposed to high levels of Hg and exhibit genotoxic damage, indicating a problem that must be addressed.
Factors associated with inadequate urinary iodine concentration among pregnant women in Mbeya region Tanzania.
Authors: Lukindo Tedson , Masumo Ray , Hancy Adam , John Sauli E. , Paulo Heavenlight A. , Sanga Abraham , Noor Ramadhan , Lankoande Fatoumata , Towo Elifatio , Leyna Germana H. , Bridge Gemma , Bedi Raman
Published: August 2024

Background Insufficient and above WHO-recommended levels of iodine intake during pregnancy can lead to serious health outcomes. This study aimed to assess median urine iodine concentration and its associated risk factors among pregnant women in the Mbeya region, Tanzania. Method A cross sectional survey involving 420 pregnant women (n=420) aged 15-49, registered in Reproductive and Child Health Clinics was conducted. Socio-demographic and dietary factors were assessed by structured questionnaire and the urine samples were analyzed using the ammonium persulfate digestion method. Results Median urinary iodine concentration (mUIC) was 279.4μg/L and it ranged from 26.1 to 1915μg/L. Insufficient mUIC (below 150μg/L) was observed in 17.14% of participants, sufficient mUIC was 24.29% and 58.57% had mUIC above the recommended level (>250μg/L). Sample women who reported consuming fish in the last 24 hours had an increased risk of insufficient mUIC [Adjusted OR= 2.60 (95%CI 1.31-5.15)] while the risk was lower for those who attended at least primary education [AOR= 0.29 (CI 0.08-0.99)]. Further, sample women resident in Mbarali district, in the oldest age group (35-49) and having a higher socio-economic status were associated with an increased risk of having MUIC above recommended level [AOR=4.09 (CI 1.85-9.010], [AOR=2.51 (CI 0.99-6.330] and, [AOR=2.08 (CI 0.91-4.71) respectively. Conclusion This study demonstrated a significant association between geographical, age and socio-economic factors and median urine iodine concentration above the WHO-recommended level. Further, this study found association between inadequate iodine in diet and insufficient median urine iodine concentration. Therefore, educational programs on iodine intake should be strengthened.
Programmatic mapping and estimating the population size of female sex workers, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs and transgender populations in Kenya
Authors: Musimbi Janet , Musyoki Helgar , Mugambi Mary , Kaosa Shem , Kioko Japheth , Aluko Diane , Wanjiru Waruiru , Wambua Solomon , Prakash Ravi , Isac Shajy , Bhattacharjee Parinita , Emmanuel Faran
Published: August 2024

Introduction Effective coverage of Human Immunodeficiency Virus prevention services for Key Populations (KPs) including female sex workers (FSWs), men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID) and transgender (TG) people necessitates periodic validation of physical venues and size estimates. Kenya conducted a robust size estimation of KPs in 2012 and a repeat mapping and size estimation exercise was conducted in 2018 to update KP Size Estimates and sub-typologies within each County for calculation of realistic program indicators. Methods A prospective mixed methods programmatic mapping approach adopted comprised two steps. The first step involved consolidating and documenting all known venues where KPs congregate while the second step included visiting and validating these venues confirming their active status. Data were collected in 34 out of 47 Counties in Kenya between January and March 2018. Data collected included estimated number of KPs (range), venue typology and timing of operation of each venue. Results We estimated a total number of 167,940 (129,271 to 206,609) FSWs; 32,580 (24,704 to 40,455) MSM; 16,063 (12,426 to 19,691) PWIDs and 4,305 (2,826 to 5,783) transgender people congregating at 10,250, 1,729, 401 and 1,218 venues respectively. Majority of the venues for FSW (81%), MSM (64%) and transgender people (67%) were bars with and without lodging, PWIDs were mostly found on streets and injecting dens (70%). Around 9% of FSW and MSM and11% of PWIDs were below the age of 18 years. Conclusion This study provided information on young KPs, female PWIDs, MSWs and for the first time, TG people in Kenya. The exercise updated size estimates of KPs by typology and provided new evidence for resource allocation, planning of interventions and targets. Programmatic mapping continues to be a useful approach supporting programs to achieve high levels of coverage and prioritize resources.
Comprehensive insights into uveal melanoma – risk factors, pathophysiology, prognosis, and diagnostic approaches
Authors: Paduszyńska Natalia , Dąbrowska Anna , Gonciarz Marta Justyna , Zaliwska Dominika , Czach Magdalena , Strojny Agnieszka Aleksandra , Adamiec Dominika Karolina , Kraszkiewicz Adrianna , Kamińska Monika Anna , Do Monika Kienanh
Published: August 2024

Introduction and purpose
Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular neoplasm in adults, which originates from melanocytes and arises from the choroid, ciliary body, or iris. The range of symptoms is wide but there are also asymptomatic cases. Metastases mainly concern the liver, and their occurrence significantly worsens the prognosis. Therefore, early detection is so crucial. This article summarizes significant information regarding epidemiology, pathophysiological processes, and genetic abnormalities underlying the disease. Moreover, we highlight possible clinical manifestations and discuss currently applied diagnostic methods.
Description of the state of knowledge
The average annual incidence worldwide is 6 cases per million. Risk stratification takes into account mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, tumor size, or invasion of adjacent tissues. In clinical practice, several diagnostic modalities are available, such as gonioscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography, ultrasound biomicroscopy, ocular ultrasonography, optical coherence tomography, angiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography.
Conclusions
The publications analyzed in this article have shown that uveal melanoma is quite a medical challenge. Understanding the disease pathogenesis and underlying genetic abnormalities that may be the target of drugs, could be of great importance for patients and may constitute a step towards a personalized approach. However, further research is necessary to recognize cancer mechanisms more precisely, expand diagnostic options, and consequently register targeted drugs and develop comprehensive management guidelines, especially for metastatic disease to achieve improved survival outcomes.
Sulla necessità del progettare e dello scrivere sul (proprio) progetto.
Authors: Prandi Enrico
Published: August 2024

Questo editoriale commenta criticamente l’esperienza della prima “call for project” della rivista che si affianca alle numerose e consuete “call for abstract”. Un’esperienza positiva, che ha riportato alla luce una questione complementare del progetto, ossia, quella della spiegazione scritta del procedimento progettuale che ne rappresenta un racconto parallelo. Ne è scaturito, quindi, un esperimento interessante sotto tre punti di vista. Il primo è insito nella volontà di tenere insieme teoria e prassi, lo scrivere di architettura e il fare architettura attraverso il progetto in quanto caratteristica di un approccio tipicamente italiano al progetto di architettura. Il secondo, è quello di un esercizio della critica del progetto che nella fattispecie di questo numero si sposta dai progetti altrui (dei Maestri, dei colleghi, degli studenti) al proprio progetto. Il terzo, non meno importante è quello di rendere intellegibile il progetto elevandolo così ad esempio di prodotto scientifico di ricerca disciplinare.
Policy learning and policy innovation: interactions and intersections
Authors: Dunlop Claire A. , Radaelli Claudio M. , Wayenberg Ellen , Zaki Bishoy L.
Published: August 2024

The links between policy learning and policy innovation seem self-evident. Yet these areas of scholarship have developed independently of each other. The articles in this Special Issue all address some aspect of the learning/innovation relationship. This introduction sets the scene by reviewing how innovation intersects with studies of policy learning. To do this, we explore the three key dimensions which characterise policy innovation, as defined by Sørensen, and its relationship with learning: political leadership, competition and collaboration. Viewed through a learning lens, we discern the interactions between these elements, and how they link forms of learning to innovative policy. Finally, through the lens of this learning/innovation framework, we summarise the contributions of the six articles and propose a future research agenda.
Terentia and the Bona Dea: Women's Public Power in the Late Roman Republic
Authors: Osgood Josiah
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This paper challenges older views that women's political power in the late Roman Republic was exercised mainly behind the scenes and had to be, because women could not have publicly acknowledged power. First, ancient historiography is used to recover a model of politics, according to which women's interventions gained urgency when made in public. Then, case studies explore how high-ranking women ( matronae ) used the annual rites for the Bona Dea to contribute to public life and intervene in politics. Later accounts of the Catilinarian conspiracy of 63 b.c.e. positively recalled actions of Cicero's wife Terentia and her peers.
A new chiton (Mollusca: Polyplacophora: Paleoloricata) from the Mississippian of Hook Head, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Authors: Sigwart Julia D. , Jackson Patrick N. Wyse , Parkes Matthew A.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: A new species of paleoloricate fossil chiton is described from the Mississippian (Tournaisian) Hook Head Formation in southeast Ireland. This is the fourth fossil chiton species known from Ireland and only the second Irish record for Paleoloricata. The new taxon, Hookisplax byrneae gen. et sp. nov. is a large chiton, known from a single isolated intermediate valve, collected from the ' Michelinia Beds' at Lumsdin's Bay, on the western coast of Hook Peninsula. This record extends the fossil record of Paleoloricata into the Mississippian.
Insights into the morphology of Sphenothallus (Cnidaria): New features identified in an old genus, from the Carboniferous (Pennsylvanian, Bashkirian) of western Ireland
Authors: Doyle Eamon , Ahlberg Per , Harper David A.T.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: The recent discovery of well-preserved fragments of Sphenothallus in the Central Clare Group (Pennsylvanian) of western Ireland provides new insights into the morphology of this enigmatic, putative cnidarian. The specimens demonstrate a morphological plasticity, including features not previously described for Sphenothallus , such as the presence of flat sides and angular lateral margins, non-bilateral symmetry in sigmoidal cross-sections suggestive of growth torsion, and a new type of bifurcating branching (new term 'rail-track junction branching' introduced herein), not related to known budding. We propose that these structures were all growth-related features during life, and not post-mortem artefacts of collapse or compaction. The flat sides and growth torsion are compared with similar features in conulariids, supporting the previously proposed phylogenetic linkage between the two groups, which may be an example of atavism. However, the bifurcating 'railtrack junction branching' is unknown in conulariids or other similar organisms.
Grünewald's Natural Medicine: Revisualising Nature in the Isenheim Altarpiece
Authors: Poore Emily
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This article builds on prior studies of the Isenheim Altarpiece ( c . 1500–16) by focusing on the medico-religious function of the plants and animals that feature in its design. It argues that while some of Grünewald's paintings of natural subjects presented instructions for harvesting and formulating remedies against illnesses collectively known as St Anthony's Fire, others were intended to depict the physical and spiritual symptoms of these diseases. The purpose of these images of suffering as a form of spiritual medicine that was activated by the practice of affective piety is examined.
Scaling wavelength selective switches for multi-band and space-division-multiplexed networks
Authors: Wei Haoyu , Chen Weixin , Yang Haining
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the practical scalability of wavelength selective switching technology for the emerging multi-band and space-division-multiplexed (SDM) networks. Wavelength selective switching architectures are introduced for multi-band SDM networks. The switching capacity is analyzed for both weakly coupled and strongly coupled SDM networks. Key bottlenecks for scaling up toward multi-band and more spatial modes are identified. Contrary to the conventional view that liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) was the only technological obstacle, the manufacturability of free-space optics with high numerical apertures and constraints on the optical dimensions also brought significant challenges for the development of highly integrated wavelength selective switches for multi-band SDM networks.
The effects of different music types on tennis performance among recreational players
Authors: Cengiz Furkan , Isik Ozkan , Bilic Zlatan , Novak Dario
Published: August 2024

It is known that different types of music used during sports performance has different psycho-physiological effects. In this context, this study aimed to reveal the effect of different types of music on ITN test performance in tennis players. A total of 35 recreational tennis players voluntarily participated in the study. In the research, the ITN test performance of tennis players was measured in three different conditions with 48-hour intervals, these being without music, with motivational music, and with sedative music. The Freidman test was used in the analysis of the data that did not show a normal distribution, and the Repeated Measures ANOVA test was used in the analysis of the data that showed a normal distribution. According to the main findings of the study, it was determined that motivational music increased the ITN test performance of tennis players, while sedative music decreased their ITN test performance (p< .05). Additionally, it was determined that motivational music increased the groundstroke depth scores of tennis players, while sedative music decreased groundstroke depth scores (p< .05). In addition to this, it was determined that volley depth, groundstroke accuracy, and serve scores increased through motivational music (p< .05), whereas sedative music had no effect (p> .05). As a result, it was determined that the ITN test performances of tennis players can be increased through the psycho-physiological effect of motivational music. It can therefore be concluded that the use of motivational music during training and matches (between sets and/or time breaks) of tennis players can increase their shooting performance.
Germline multigene panel testing in acute and chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Ramsey Mitchell L. , Heald Brandie , Gokun Yevgeniya , Baker Josie , Groce J. Royce , Han Samuel , Hart Phil A. , Krishna Somashekar G. , Lara Luis F. , Lee Peter J. , Papachristou Georgios I. , Pearlman Rachel , Poll Sarah , Roberts Maegan E. , Stanich Peter P.
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives

Germline genetic testing is recommended for younger patients with idiopathic pancreatitis but there has been a lack of consensus in recommendations for those over age 35. We aimed to analyze the results of genetic testing among subjects of varying ages.

Methods

Individuals who underwent germline multigene testing for pancreatitis susceptibility genes (CASR, CFTR, CPA1, CTRC, PRSS1, SPINK1) through a large commercial laboratory between 2017 and 2022 were included. Test results and information collected from test requisition forms were evaluated. Multivariable logistic regression models were performed to identify factors associated with a positive pancreatitis panel (pathogenic, likely pathogenic, and/or increased risk variants) in pancreatitis-related genes.

Results

Overall, 2,468 subjects with primary indication of acute pancreatitis (AP) (n = 401), chronic pancreatitis (CP) (n = 631), pancreatic cancer (n = 128), or other indications (n = 1,308) completed germline testing. Among patients with AP or CP, the prevalence of any positive result for those <35 versus ≥35 years of age was 32.1% and 24.5% (p = 0.007), and the prevalence of a clinically meaningful result was 10.8% and 5.4%, respectively (p = 0.001). Positive family history of pancreatitis was associated with increased odds ratio (OR) of 8.59 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.92–25.25) for a clinically significant panel result while each 5-year increase in age at test completion had lower odds (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.83–0.95).

Conclusions

The highest prevalence of pathogenic variants is seen in younger individuals with a positive family history of pancreatitis. However, clinically meaningful results are identified in older subjects, suggesting that genetic counseling and testing should be considered for all age groups.
Reliably calibrating X-ray images required for preoperative planning of THA using a device-adapted magnification factor
Authors: Brüggemann Heinrich , Paulsen Aksel , Oppedal Ketil , Grasmair Markus , Hömberg Dietmar
Published: August 2024

Background and aim

Calibrated pelvic X-ray images are needed in the preoperative planning of total hip arthroplasty (THA) to predict component sizes. Errors and mismatch in the size of one or more components are reported, which can lead to clinically relevant complications. Our aim is to investigate whether we can solve the fundamental problem of X-ray calibration and whether traditional X-ray still has a place in preoperative planning despite improved radiological alternatives.

Methods

Based on geometric and radiographic principles, we estimate that the magnification factor is adapted to the X-ray device and depends strongly on the source-image distance of the device. We analyse the errors of the various calibration methods and investigate which narrow range can be expected to show that the center of rotation is sufficiently accurate. Based on the results of several CT-scans we defined an adapted magnification factor and validated the degree of measurement accuracy.

Results

The true magnification of objects on X-ray images depends mainly on the device settings. Stem size prediction is possible to a limited extent, with an error margin of 4.3%. Components can be predicted with a safety margin of one size up and down as with CT or 3D images. The prerequisite is that the source-image distance is greater than or equal to 120 cm, the table-image distance is known, and the object-image distance is estimated according to the patient’s BMI. We defined a device-adapted magnification factor that simplifies the templating routine and can be used to obtain the most reliable preoperative dimensional measurements that can be expected from X-ray images. We found the error margin of the magnification factor with the highest degrees of prediction and precision.

Conclusion

Preoperative planning is reliable and reproducible using X-ray images if calibration is performed with the device-adapted magnification factor suggested in this paper.
Association between prediabetes and depression: A meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Yi , Wan Weitao
Published: August 2024

Background

Previous studies evaluating the association between prediabetes and depression have shown inconsistent results. Consequently, the aim of the systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate whether prediabetes is associated with depression in the general population.

Methods

Relevant observational studies were obtained by searching the Medline, Web of Science, and Embase databases. A random-effects model was utilized to pool the results by incorporating the influence of heterogeneity. Multiple subgroup analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of the study characteristics on the outcome.

Results

Sixteen large-scale cross-sectional studies involving 322,863 participants were included. Among the total participants, 82,154 (25.4%) had prediabetes. The pooled results showed that prediabetes was associated with a higher prevalence of depression in this population (odds ratio [OR]: 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05 to 1.28, p = 0.003; I2 = 58%). Subgroup analysis showed a stronger association between prediabetes and depression in younger subjects (<50 years old, OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.50) than that in older subjects (≥50 years old, OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.10; p for subgroup difference = 0.03). Other study characteristics, such as the study country, sex of the participants, definition of prediabetes, methods for the detection of depression, and study quality score, did not seem to significantly affect the results (p for subgroup difference all > 0.05).

Conclusions

Prediabetes may be associated with a slightly higher prevalence of depression in the general population, particularly in subjects aged <50 years old.