bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association Between the License Fee Increase and the Density of Tobacco Retailers in California—A Segmented Interrupted Time-Series Analysis by Income and Race/Ethnicity
Authors: He Yanyun , Yang Qian , Lu Bo , Shang Ce
Published: September 2023

Introduction

On May 9, 2016, the State of California passed a law to increase the licensing fee for tobacco retailers from a one-time-only fee of $100 to an annual fee of $265, effective on June 9, 2016. This study investigates the association between this fee increase and retailer densities by neighborhood income and race/ethnicity characteristics.

Methods

We obtained quarterly data on the number of active tobacco retailer licenses from 2011 to 2020 in every zip code in California from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. These data were then linked to zip code-level income, race/ethnicity, and population measures. We used a single-group segmented interrupted time-series analysis to assess the association between the increase in licensing fees and retailer densities by neighborhood income and race/ethnicity.

Results

After the implementation of the annual licensing fees, the retailer density decreased both immediately and gradually. Specifically, the retailer density dropped by 0.47 in the first quarter following the intervention. Compared to the pre-intervention time trend, the retailer density decreased quarterly by 0.05. Furthermore, the impacts of increasing licensing fees were more pronounced in low-income and the majority Black zip codes.

Conclusions

Given that higher smoking prevalence is associated with greater tobacco outlet density, the licensing fee increase could be an effective policy tool to reduce tobacco use among economically disadvantaged and minority Black communities, thereby addressing tobacco-use disparities.

Implications

This study used the single-group segmented interrupted time-series analysis to assess the association between the licensing fee increase and tobacco retailer densities by neighborhood income and race/ethnicity. We found that this licensing fee increase was associated with reduced retailer densities and the total number of active retailers right after the implementation. We further found that the annual licensing fee policy had a continuous effect in reducing tobacco retailer densities in all zip codes. The impacts of increasing licensing fees were more pronounced in low-income and majority of Black zip codes.
Revisiting planetary systems in the Okayama Planet Search Program: A new long-period planet, RV astrometry joint analysis, and a multiplicity-metallicity trend around evolved stars
Authors: Teng Huan-Yu , Sato Bun’ei , Kuzuhara Masayuki , Takarada Takuya , Omiya Masashi , Harakawa Hiroki , Izumiura Hideyuki , Kambe Eiji , Yilmaz Mesut , Bikmaev Ilfan , Selam Selim O , Brandt Timothy D , Xiao Guang-Yao , Yoshida Michitoshi , Itoh Yoichi , Ando Hiroyasu , Kokubo Eiichiro , Ida Shigeru
Published: September 2023

In this study, we revisit 32 planetary systems around evolved stars observed within the framework of the Okayama Planet Search Program (OPSP) and its collaborative framework of the East Asian Planet Search Network to search for additional companions and investigate the properties of stars and giant planets in multiple-planet systems. With our latest radial velocities obtained from Okayama Astrophysical Observatory, we confirm an additional giant planet in the wide orbit of the 75 Cet system ($P_{\rm {c}} = 2051.62_{-40.47}^{+45.98}\ \rm {d}$, $M_{\rm {c}}\sin i=0.912_{-0.090}^{+0.088}\,\,M_{\rm {J}}$, and $a_{\rm {c}}=3.929_{-0.058}^{+0.052}\ \rm {au}$), along with five stars exhibiting long-term radial velocity accelerations, which indicates massive companions in the wide orbits. We also find that the radial velocity variations of several planet-harboring stars may indicate additional planet candidates, stellar activities, or other understudied sources. These stars include ϵ Tau, 11 Com, 24 Boo, 41 Lyn, 14 And, HD 32518, and ω Ser. We further constrain the orbital configuration of the HD 5608, HD 14067, HD 120084, and HD 175679 systems by combining radial velocities with astrometry, as their host central stars exhibit significant astrometric accelerations. For other systems, we simply refine their orbital parameters. Moreover, our study indicates that the OPSP planet-harboring stars are more metal poor compared to the currently known planet-harboring stars, and this is likely due to the B − V color upper limit at 1.0 for star selection in the beginning of the survey. Finally, by investigating the less massive giant planets (<5 MJ) around currently known planet-harboring evolved stars, we find that metallicity positively correlates with the multiplicity and total planet mass of the system, which can be evidence for the core-accretion planet formation model.
Newly identified lineages of porcine hemagglutinating encephalomyelitis virus exhibit respiratory phenotype
Authors: He Wan-Ting , Li Dongyan , Baele Guy , Zhao Jin , Jiang Zhiwen , Ji Xiang , Veit Michael , Suchard Marc A , Holmes Edward C , Lemey Philippe , Boni Maciej F , Su Shuo
Published: September 2023

Swine pathogens have a long history of zoonotic transmission to humans, occasionally leading to sustained outbreaks or pandemics. Through a retrospective epidemiological study of swine populations in China, we describe novel lineages of porcine hemagglutinating encephalomyelitis virus (PHEV) complex coronaviruses (CoVs) that cause exclusively respiratory symptoms with no signs of the neurological symptoms typically associated with classical PHEV infection. Through large-scale epidemiological surveillance, we show that these novel lineages have circulated in at least eight provinces in southeastern China. Phylogenetic and recombination analyses of twenty-four genomes identified two major viral lineages causing respiratory symptoms with extensive recombination within them, between them, and between classical PHEV and the novel respiratory variant PHEV (rvPHEV) lineages. Divergence times among the sampled lineages in the PHEV virus complex date back to 1886–1958 (mean estimate 1928), with the two major rvPHEV lineages separating approximately 20 years later. Many rvPHEV viruses show amino acid substitutions at the carbohydrate-binding site of hemagglutinin esterase (HE) and/or have lost the cysteine required for HE dimerization. This resembles the early adaptation of human CoVs, where HE lost its hemagglutination ability to adapt to growth in the human respiratory tract. Our study represents the first report of the evolutionary history of rvPHEV circulating in swine and highlights the importance of characterizing CoV diversity and recombination in swine to identify pathogens with outbreak potential that could threaten swine farming.
Aging Workforce in the Context of Technological Advancements: Toward a Socio-Ecological Model
Authors: Chang Chu-Hsiang , Xu Heng , Xie Bo
Published: September 2023

Technological advancements continue to result in fundamental changes to the work itself and the workplace. Although these changes can create challenges for older workers, older workers can draw from individual and contextual resources to maintain and enhance their wellbeing, motivation, and capacities, and thus achieving successful aging at work. These articles in this special issue characterize the different psychological mechanisms underlying workers’ responses to technological changes in the workplace, such as automation, digitization, and use of information and communications technologies. Integrating the findings from these articles, along with the existing theoretical models of successful aging at work, we propose a socio-ecological approach to guide future research on older workers’ adaptation to technological changes.
First Detection of Cucurbit Yellow Stunting Disorder Virus in Iraq
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed S. , Lahuf Adnan A. , Jeddoa Zuhair M. A. , Al-Taey Duraid K. A.
Published: September 2023

During the growing season of 2022, courgette plants displaying foliar yellowing that included leaf mottle and interveinal chlorosis along with green veins were observed in numerous courgette fields of Al-Yusufiyah, Baghdad Province, Iraq. Bemisia tabaci was abundant with the foliar yellowing plants in all fields investigated. Fifty symptomatic leaf samples showing typical foliar yellowing were collected randomly from several courgette fields. Three representative samples were sent to Macrogen (Seoul, South Korea) for high-throughput RNA sequencing. The BLASTn analyses of the assembled genome of cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus (CYSDV) isolate Iraq-1 segment RNA1 and RNA2 demonstrated pairwise nucleotide identity between 99.23 and 99.84% for segment RNA1 and between 97.58 and 97.92% for segment RNA2 with several corresponding global isolates of CYSDV. These two segments of the CYSDV isolate Iraq-1 were deposited in GenBank under accession numbers OQ685958.1 and OQ685959.1, respectively. Additionally, a phylogenetic analysis indicated a relationship between CYSDV isolate Iraq-1 and numerous isolates of CYSDV reported from various origins, mainly from the United States (MW147553.1 and EF547827.1) and Spain (AJ537493.1 and NC_004809) for the segment RNA1. However, the segment RNA2 of CYSDV isolate Iraq-1 was close to those from Spain (NC_004810.1, AY242078.1, and AJ439690.2), Greece (OL584360.1), and the United States (FJ492808.1). Although CYSDV was previously reported in Europe, such as in Spain and France; in Asia in Iran and Jordan; and in North America in the United States and Mexico, it has not been reported in Iraq. Thus, this is the first report of CYSDV in Iraq.
Differential regulation of MAP2 by phosphorylation events in proline‐rich versus C‐terminal domains
Authors: DeGiosio R. A. , Needham P. G. , Andrews O. A. , Tristan H. , Grubisha M. J. , Brodsky J. L. , Camacho C. , Sweet R. A.
Published: September 2023

MAP2 is a critical cytoskeletal regulator in neurons. The phosphorylation of MAP2 (MAP2‐P) is well known to regulate core functions of MAP2, including microtubule (MT)/actin binding and facilitation of tubulin polymerization. However, site‐specific studies of MAP2‐P function in regions outside of the MT‐binding domain (MTBD) are lacking. We previously identified a set of MAP2 phosphopeptides which are differentially expressed and predominantly increased in the cortex of individuals with schizophrenia relative to nonpsychiatric comparison subjects. The phosphopeptides originated not from the MTBD, but from the flanking proline‐rich and C‐terminal domains of MAP2. We sought to understand the contribution of MAP2‐P at these sites on MAP2 function. To this end, we isolated a series of phosphomimetic MAP2C constructs and subjected them to cell‐free tubulin polymerization, MT‐binding, actin‐binding, and actin polymerization assays. A subset of MAP2‐P events significantly impaired these functions, with the two domains displaying different patterns of MAP2 regulation: proline‐rich domain mutants T293E and T300E impaired MT assembly and actin‐binding affinity but did not affect MT‐binding, while C‐terminal domain mutants S426E and S439D impaired all three functions. S443D also impaired MT assembly with minimal effects on MT‐ or actin‐binding. Using heterologous cells, we also found that S426E but not T293E had a lower capability for process formation than the wild‐type protein. These findings demonstrate the functional utility of MAP2‐P in the proline‐rich and C‐terminal domains and point to distinct, domain‐dependent regulations of MAP2 function, which can go on to affect cellular morphology.
Postoperative Oral Rehydration and Regimented Follow-up Decrease Readmissions for Colorectal Surgery Patients with Ileostomies
Authors: Westfall Kristen M. , Rivard Samantha J. , Suwanabol Pasithorn A. , Albright Jeremy , Ramm Carole , Cleary Robert K.
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Ileostomies constitute 15-43% of readmissions after colorectal surgery, often due to dehydration and acute kidney injury. Prior institutional interventions decreased readmissions but not among patients with new ileostomies.

OBJECTIVE:

Evaluate readmissions among patients with new ileostomies following postoperative oral rehydration solution and standardized clinic visits.

DESIGN:

Retrospective analysis of prospective database.

SETTINGS:

Enhanced recovery colorectal surgery service.

PATIENTS:

New ileostomy patients before and after intervention.

INTERVENTION(S):

Postoperative oral rehydration solution and postdischarge clinic visits with review of inputs/outputs, antimotility and appliance needs, and trained nurse re-education 4-7 days after discharge, 30-days postoperatively, and every 1-2 weeks thereafter as needed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Readmission rate due to dehydration/acute kidney injury (primary), emergency department and readmission rates overall and for specific diagnoses. Analysis used univariate and weighted techniques.

RESULTS:

A total of 312 patients (199 pre-intervention; 113 post-intervention) were included, with a mean age of 59.0 years. Patients were predominantly white (94.9%) and evenly split between men and women. Most common diagnosis was diverticulitis (43.3%). Most common procedure was high anterior resection (38.8%) followed by low anterior resection (16.35%). Patient and procedure characteristics were well matched between groups. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that readmission rate due to dehydration/acute kidney injury significantly decreased between pre- and post-intervention study groups (45.7% vs 16.5%, p = 0.039). ED visits due to dehydration/acute kidney injury (12.0% vs 1.7%, p < 0.001) and readmissions from all causes (24.33% vs 10.6%, p = 0.005) also significantly decreased. Other complications were not significantly different between groups. Average stoma output 24-hours before (776 mL vs 625 mL, p = 0.005) and after (993 mL vs 890 mL, p = 0.025) discharge was significantly decreased in the post-intervention group.

LIMITATIONS:

Retrospective single center study.

CONCLUSIONS:

An oral rehydration solution and frequent standardized post-discharge visits led by trained nursing staff decreased readmissions and emergency department visits among patients with new ileostomies following colorectal surgery.
Applying the Common-Sense Self-Regulation Model to Understand Illness Representations of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in College Students
Authors: Kemp Amy M. , Neese Madison , Norton Gabriella , O'Brien Katy H.
Published: September 2023

Objective:

The Common Sense Model (CSM) describes cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial factors that influence how health threats are processed and subsequently inform health-related decisions or actions. The purpose of this study was to examine psychosocial factors influencing coherence, or usefulness, of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) representations and their relationship to health-related decisions and actions.

Setting:

Public university.

Participants:

There were 458 graduate and undergraduate college students who participated in a web-based survey (mean age = 22 years; SD = 3.6).

Design:

A mixed-methods design randomized participants into 2 groups to examine perceptions of mTBI across differing injury mechanisms, or causes, by comparing actions recommended to a friend (Other; n = 214) with those generated for self (Self; n = 244).

Main Measures:

Seven common injury mechanisms representative of university student mTBI experiences were presented as vignettes (cause). Each vignette included open- and closed-ended questions framed from CSM constructs (identity, consequences, action plans, timeline, and social context). Data were analyzed using a series of chi-square tests and multiple analysis of variance. Post hoc analysis identified differences in the injury vignettes.

Results:

Students were more likely to identify the injury as mTBI (

= 8.62, P = .035) and recommend immediate healthcare (F
1,415 = 316.89, P < .001) for all causes if the injury occurred to a friend as compared with themselves. Action plans also varied by cause, with post hoc analysis revealing a higher likelihood of healthcare seeking for motor vehicle crashes and assault and a lower likelihood for falls while intoxicated. Students were generally more likely to talk to closest confidants than doctors (F
8,398 = 33.66, P < .001).

Conclusion:

Cause appears to be a key construct in generating illness representations and associated action plans for seeking care, with lower perceived severity causes (eg, falls) resulting in little to no health-seeking action. In addition, social support appears to be important for college students when making decisions about their health.
Associations Between Traumatic Brain Injury and Severity of Tinnitus-Related Functional Impairment Among US Military Veterans: A National, Population-Based Study
Authors: Coco Laura , Hooker Elizabeth R. , Gilbert Tess A. , Prewitt Austin L. , Reavis Kelly M. , O'Neil Maya E. , Clark Khaya D. , Henry James A. , Zaugg Tara , Carlson Kathleen F.
Published: September 2023

Objective:

To describe associations between a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the severity of tinnitus-related functional impairment among a national, stratified random sample of veterans diagnosed with tinnitus by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system.

Setting:

A multimodal (mailed and internet) survey administered in 2018. Participants: VA healthcare-using veterans diagnosed with tinnitus; veterans with comorbid TBI diagnosis were oversampled.

Design:

A population-based survey.

Main Measures:

TBI history was assessed using International Classification of Diseases (ICD) diagnosis codes in veterans' VA electronic health records. The severity of participants' overall tinnitus-related functional impairment was measured using the Tinnitus Functional Index. Population prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using inverse probability weights accounting for sample stratification and survey nonresponse. Veterans' relative risk ratios of very severe or moderate/severe tinnitus-related functional impairment, versus none/mild impairment, were estimated by TBI history using bivariable and multivariable multinomial logistic regression.

Results:

The population prevalence of TBI was 5.6% (95% CI: 4.8-6.4) among veterans diagnosed with tinnitus. Veterans with a TBI diagnosis, compared with those without a TBI diagnosis, had 3.6 times greater likelihood of rating their tinnitus-related impairment as very severe (95% CI: 2.1-6.3), and 1.5 times greater likelihood of rating their impairment as moderate/severe (95% CI: 1.0-2.4), versus none/mild.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest an important role of TBI in the severity of tinnitus-related functional impairment among veterans. This knowledge can help inform the integration of tinnitus management services into the care received by veterans with TBI.
Keratoconus Frequency and Associated Risk Factors Among Patients Younger Than 18 Years With Significant Refractive Errors
Authors: Sarria Calderón Natalia Andrea , Martínez Córdoba Claudia Johanna , Pinedo Agudelo Jennifer Andrea , Rosas Apraez Jesús Andrés , Revelo Álvarez Mario Leandro
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Keratoconus is an ectatic corneal disorder that causes low vision secondary to high myopia, irregular astigmatism, and loss of corneal transparency. In children, the disease behaves aggressively, progresses rapidly, is diagnosed at advanced stages, and presents an increased risk for corneal transplantation; however, only few studies in children have been conducted.

Purpose:

The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of keratoconus in patients younger than 18 years who underwent the Pentacam study because of high myopia or high astigmatism in the oblique axis, analyze topographic criteria and classify them into severity groups, and identify associated risk factors.

Methods:

This was a retrospective observational cross-sectional study in which Pentacam examinations were analyzed. Frequency of keratoconus was determined and patients were classified according to visual acuity and severity scales. Medical records were reviewed to identify associated risk factors.

Results:

Four hundred twenty-six patients younger than 18 years were included, 40 (9.4%) had keratoconus according to Pentacam criteria. The mean age at diagnosis was 14.9 years, with male predilection (75%). Atopy was the only statistically significant risk factor, present in 85%. Family history was present in 7.5%. There were no differences in the distribution in groups according to visual acuity or Amsler–Krumeich scale. Most frequent ABCD classification was A2 (35.6%), B4 (47.9%), and C0 (35.6%), posterior curvature radius being a significant severity criterion.

Conclusions:

The study found that frequency of keratoconus in children is higher than previously reported. Atopy has a clear and possible causal association. Early detection should be sought to reduce the risk of progression. Pentacam is a fundamental tool for early diagnosis using simple criteria.
Long-Term Outcome After Bilateral Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty for Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy
Authors: Baydoun Lamis , Vasiliauskaitė Indrė , Luceri Salvatore , Jager Martine J. , Schaal Sontje-Chiao , Bourgonje Vincent , Oellerich Silke , Melles Gerrit R. J.
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to assess the long-term clinical outcome, complications, and graft survival of bilateral Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) in patients with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy.

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study of 181 patients (362 eyes) with sequential bilateral DMEK for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. Clinical outcomes were assessed up to 5 years postoperatively. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity, pachymetry, endothelial cell density, graft survival, and complication rates.

Results:

Contralateral DMEK was performed on average 15 ± 11 months (range: 2–60 months) after the first eye. From 1 until 5 years after DMEK, best-corrected visual acuity, pachymetry, endothelial cell density, and graft survival did not differ between the first and second eyes (all P > 0.05). Graft detachment occurred in 67 eyes (19% [18% first eyes, 19% second eyes], 6% bilateral), graft rejection in 9 eyes (3% [3% first eyes, 2% second eyes], 1% bilateral), glaucoma in 25 eyes (7% [8% first eyes, 6% second eyes], 2% bilateral), and graft failure in 22 eyes (6% [4% first eye, 8% second eye], 2% bilateral). All differences were not significant (all P > 0.05). Five-year graft survival rates were comparable for first and second eyes (0.95 and 0.92, respectively; P = 0.15).

Conclusions:

Clinical outcomes after bilateral DMEK are similar in both eyes and sustainable in the longer term. Within the first 5 years, the same complication may rarely occur in the contralateral eye.
Performance of IOL calculation formulas that use measured posterior corneal power in eyes following myopic laser vision correction
Authors: Kenny Peter I. , Kozhaya Karim , Truong Paulina , Wang Li , Koch Douglas D. , Weikert Mitchell P.
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

To compare the predictive accuracy of the biometer-embedded Barrett True-K TK and new total corneal power methods of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation in eyes with prior laser vision correction (LVC) for myopia.

Setting:

Academic clinical practice.

Design:

Retrospective case series.

Methods:

IOL power formulas were assessed using measurements from a swept-source optical coherence biometer. Refractive prediction errors were calculated for the Barrett True-K TK, EVO 2.0, Pearl-DGS, and HofferQST, which use both anterior and posterior corneal curvature measurements. These were compared with the Shammas, Haigis-L, Barrett True-K No History (NH), optical coherence tomography, and 4-formula average (AVG-4) on the ASCRS postrefractive calculator, and to the Holladay 1 and 2 with non linear axial length regressions (H1- and H2-NLR).

Results:

The study comprised 85 eyes from 85 patients. Only the Barrett True-K TK and EVO 2.0 had mean numerical errors that were not significantly different from 0. The EVO 2.0, Barrett True-K TK, Pearl-DGS, AVG-4, H2-NLR, and Barrett True-K NH were selected for further pairwise analysis. The Barrett True-K TK and EVO 2.0 demonstrated smaller root-mean-square absolute error compared with the Pearl-DGS, and the Barrett True-K TK also had a smaller mean absolute error than the Pearl-DGS.

Conclusions:

The Barrett True-K TK and EVO 2.0 formulas had comparable performance to existing formulas in eyes with prior myopic LVC.
Efficacy of corneal curvature on the accuracy of 8 intraocular lens power calculation formulas in 302 highly myopic eyes
Authors: Mo Er , Feng Ke , Li Qiyuan , Xu Jingyuan , Cen Jiaying , Li Jin , Zhao Yun-e
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

To investigate the effect of corneal curvature (K) on the accuracy of 8 intraocular lens formulas in highly myopic eyes.

Setting:

Eye Hospital and School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.

Design:

Retrospective consecutive case series.

Methods:

302 eyes (302 patients) were analyzed in subgroups based on the K value. The mean refractive error, mean absolute error (MAE), median absolute error (MedAE), root-mean-square absolute prediction error (RMSAE) and proportions of eyes within ±0.25 diopter (D), ±0.50 D, ±0.75 D, ±1.00 D were statistical analyzed.

Results:

Emmetropia Verifying Optical (EVO) 2.0, Kane, and Radial Basis Function (RBF) 3.0 had the lower MAE (≤0.28) and RMSAE (≤0.348) and highest percentage of eyes within ±0.50 D (≥83.58%) in the flat (K ≤ 43 D) and steep K (K > 45 D) groups. Hoffer QST had the lowest MedAE (0.19), RMSAE (0.351) and the highest percentage of eyes within ±0.50 D (82.98%) in the normal K group (43 < K ≤ 45 D). When axial length (AL) ≤28 mm, all formulas showed close RMSAE values (0.322 to 0.373) in flat K group. When AL >28 mm, RBF 3.0 achieved the lowest MAE (≤0.24), MedAE (≤0.17) and RMSAE (≤0.337) across all subgroups.

Conclusions:

EVO 2.0, Kane, and RBF 3.0 were the most accurate in highly myopic eyes with a flat or steep K. Hoffer QST is recommended for long eyes with normal K values. RBF 3.0 showed the highest accuracy when AL >28 mm, independent of corneal curvature.
Pilocarpine HCl 1.25% for treatment of presbyopia after laser vision correction: pooled analysis of two phase 3 randomized trials (GEMINI 1 and 2)
Authors: Lievens Chris W. , Hom Milton M. , McLaurin Eugene B. , Yuan Jiang , Safyan Eleonora , Liu Haixia
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy of topical pilocarpine HCl 1.25% (Pilo) in treating presbyopia in individuals with or without a history of laser vision correction (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis [LASIK] or photorefractive keratectomy [PRK]).

Setting:

Multiple clinical sites.

Design:

Pooled analysis of 2 identically designed prospective, randomized, vehicle-controlled studies (GEMINI 1 and 2).

Methods:

Adults aged 40 to 55 years with presbyopia received once-daily Pilo or vehicle bilaterally for 30 days. Responder rates for ≥3-line improvement in mesopic, high-contrast, binocular distance-corrected near visual acuity (DCNVA) were determined on day 30.

Results:

Among participants with a history of LASIK/PRK (n = 39 in the Pilo group, n = 41 in the vehicle group), responder rates for ≥3-line improvement in DCNVA on day 30 at hours 0.25, 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 8, and 10, respectively, were 16.7%, 38.9%, 41.7%, 37.8%, 16.2%, 13.9%, and 8.3% with Pilo and 0.0%, 2.6%, 10.5%, 5.1%, 7.7%, 2.6%, and 0.0% with vehicle. Responder rates in the LASIK/PRK subgroup were significantly higher with Pilo than vehicle at hours 0.25 (P = .0087), 0.5 (P = .0001), 1 (P = .0022), and 3 (P = .0005). In contrast, there were no significant differences in responder rates between Pilo-treated participants with and without LASIK/PRK. Among non-LASIK/PRK participants in the Pilo group (n = 336), responder rates for ≥3-line improvement in DCNVA on day 30 at hours 0.25, 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 8, and 10, respectively, were 16.8%, 32.7%, 39.0%, 28.0%, 17.4%, 12.6%, and 10.5%.

Conclusions:

Pilo treatment effectively and similarly improved DCNVA in presbyopes with or without a history of laser vision correction.
Comparative study of the glistening between four intraocular lens models assessed by OCT and deep learning
Authors: Fernández-Vigo José Ignacio , Macarro-Merino Ana , De Moura-Ramos Jose Joaquim , Alvarez-Rodriguez Lorena , Burgos-Blasco Barbara , Novo-Bujan Jorge , Ortega-Hortas Marcos , Fernández-Vigo José Ángel
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

To evaluate the glistening in 4 different models of intraocular lenses (IOLs) using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and deep learning (DL).

Setting:

Centro Internacional de Oftalmología Avanzada (Madrid, Spain).

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Methods:

325 eyes were assessed for the presence and severity of glistening in 4 IOL models: ReSTOR+3 SN6AD1 (n = 41), SN60WF (n = 110), PanOptix TFNT (n = 128) and Vivity DFT015 (n = 46). The presence of glistening was analyzed using OCT, identifying the presence of hyperreflective foci (HRF) in the central area of the IOL. A manual and an original DL-based quantification algorithm designed for this purpose was applied.

Results:

Glistening was detected in 22 (53.7%) ReSTOR SN6AD1, 44 (40%) SN60WF, 49 (38.3%) PanOptix TFNT, and 4 (8.7%) Vivity DFT015 IOLs, when any grade was considered. In the comparison of the different types of IOLs, global glistening measured as total HRF was 17.3 ± 25.9 for the ReSTOR+3; 9.3 ± 15.7 for the SN60WF; 6.9 ± 10.5 for the PanOptix; and 1.2 ± 2.6 for the Vivity (P < .05). There was excellent agreement between manual and DL-based quantification (≥0.829).

Conclusions:

It is possible to quantify, classify and compare the glistening severity in different IOL models using OCT images in a simple and objective manner with a DL algorithm. In the comparative study, the Vivity presented the lowest severity of glistening.
Placebo analgesia and nocebo hyperalgesia in patients with Alzheimer disease and healthy participants
Authors: Matthiesen Susan Tomczak , Sieg Mette , Andersen Stephanie Skøtt , Amanzio Martina , Finnerup Nanna Brix , Jensen Troels Staehelin , Gottrup Hanne , Vase Lene
Published: September 2023

The role of placebo analgesia and nocebo hyperalgesia in patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) is largely unknown, with only few studies in the area. Therefore, this study aims to investigate to which extent placebo analgesia and nocebo hyperalgesia effects are present in patients experiencing mild-to-moderate AD. Twenty-one patients with AD (test population) and 26 healthy participants (HP; design validation) were exposed to thermal pain stimulation on 3 test days: Lidocaine condition (open/hidden lidocaine administration), capsaicin condition (open/hidden capsaicin administration), and natural history (no treatment), in a randomized, within-subject design. Open lidocaine and open capsaicin were accompanied by verbal suggestions for pain relief and pain increase, respectively. Expected pain and actual pain intensity were measured on a numerical rating scale (0-10). Placebo and nocebo effects were calculated as pain differences in open–hidden lidocaine and capsaicin, respectively, controlled for no treatment. Healthy participants obtained a placebo effect (P = 0.01) and a trend for a nocebo effect (P = 0.07). Patients with AD did not obtain a placebo effect (P = 0.44) nor a significant nocebo effect (P = 0.86). Healthy participants expected lower and higher pain with open vs hidden lidocaine and capsaicin, respectively (P < 0.001). The same expectation effects were seen in patients with AD (open vs hidden lidocaine, P = 0.008; open vs hidden capsaicin, P < 0.001). With a well-controlled experimental setting, this study suggests that patients with AD may not experience placebo analgesia effects. Nocebo hyperalgesia effects in patients with AD needs further research. These findings may have implications for the conduction of clinical trials and the treatment of patients with AD in clinical practice.
On the Histologic Classification of Thymoma
Authors: Suster David , Suster Saul
Published: September 2023

The classification of thymoma continues to be a source of controversy in pathology. The difficulties in histologic classification are evident from the number of proposals that have been offered over the years, as well as for the continuous changes and modifications introduced by the World Health Organization to their classification system over the past 20 years. We analyze here some of the issues involved in the classification of these tumors and the difficulties encountered for practicing pathologists in deciphering the “letters and numbers” system devised by the World Health Organization. We would like to propose an alternate approach to thymoma histologic classification that capitalizes on the basic observation of their cytologic features and incorporates the pattern of growth resulting from the interplay of the tumor cells with other cellular constituents as a secondary characteristic. The proposed histologic classification provides a simplified, reproducible means of histologically categorizing these tumors and can be easily understood by most practicing pathologists in simple and clear morphologic terms.
Small Cell Carcinoma of the Ureter With Early Recurrence and Multiple Metastases Shown on 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Tao Zihao , Qiu Yongkang , Huang Wenpeng , Wang Aixiang , Kang Lei
Published: September 2023

Primary small cell carcinoma of the ureter is an extremely rare malignancy with a poor prognosis. We present rare interesting 18F-FDG PET/CT images of primary small cell carcinoma of the ureter in a 37-year-old man with early recurrence and multiple metastases 2 months after laparoscopic left nephroureterectomy and pelvic tumor resection. PET/CT showed high FDG-avid lesions in the pelvis, peritoneum, the left posterior wall of the bladder, and in the right lung, providing important value in the detection of recurrence and systemic metastases.
68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT in the Initial Diagnosis of Patients With Clinical, Imaging, and/or Biochemical Suspicion of a Neuroendocrine Tumor
Authors: Metser Ur , Ezzat Shereen , Singh Simron , Myrehaug Sten , Rahimi Shiva , Gray Daryl , Singnurkar Amit
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the yield of somatostatin receptor PET in patients with clinical, imaging, and/or biochemical suspicion of a neuroendocrine tumor (NET).

Patients and Methods

This analysis includes patients referred for the initial diagnosis of an unconfirmed NET, as part of a prospective, single-arm registry study (NCT03873870) assessing the utility of 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT in the management of NETs. Inclusion criteria to this cohort consisted of elevated biomarkers and/or clinical presentation suspicious for a NET, with negative conventional cross-sectional imaging, or presence of a lesion suspicious for a NET on conventional imaging, not amenable for biopsy. Patients with histological confirmation of a NET were excluded.

Results

There were 220 patients included between April 2019 and March 2022 with a mean age ± SD of 59.5 ± 16.1 years with biochemical, morphological, and/or clinical suspicion of a NET. Overall, 132/220 patients (60%) had a positive 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT. 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT confirmed a type 2 somatostatin receptor overexpressing tumor in 123/171 (71.9%) of patients with a radiographically suspicious abnormality. The positivity rate for pancreatic, small bowel/mesenteric, adrenal, and other sites was 78/96 (81.2%), 38/57 (66.7%), 7/7 (100%), and 1/11 (9.1%), respectively. 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT was positive in 9/49 (18.4%) of those with a biochemical and/or clinical suspicion of a NET.

Conclusions

68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT is positive in nearly 3 of 4 patients with morphological suspicion of a NET, with the highest yield in those with pancreatic and small bowel or mesenteric masses, and in approximately 1 of 6 patients with biochemical and/or clinical suspicion of a NET.
Increased Uptake of Brown Tumor in 99mTc-HYNIC-TOC Scintigraphy Mimicking Postoperative Recurrence of Tumor-Induced Osteomalacia
Authors: Zhang Yuwei , Wang Peipei , Liu Meixi , Liu Yu , Jing Hongli
Published: September 2023

A 61-year-old man underwent a resection of tumor in the left tibia that caused osteomalacia 11 years ago. Postoperative bone pain and fatigue symptoms were briefly relieved but then recurred. To identify potential recurrent tumors, 99mTc-HYNIC-TOC scintigraphy was performed. Images revealed an osteolytic lesion in the right tibia with increased uptake. The lesion was subsequently resected, which pathologically proved a brown tumor. Symptoms of bone pain and weakness caused by osteomalacia did not relieve 4 months after the operation. Here, we present a rare case of brown tumor with high activity on 99mTc-HYNIC-TOC SPECT/CT, mimicking a culprit tumor of osteomalacia.
Comparison of 18F-FDG PET Findings of Pegfilgrastim-Induced Aortitis With Other Types of Large-Vessel Vasculitis
Authors: Takamatsu Atsushi , Yoshida Kotaro , Watanabe Satoru , Komori Takahiro , Inoue Dai , Taki Junichi , Gabata Toshifumi
Published: September 2023

Purpose of the Report

To elucidate the PET/CT findings of pegfilgrastim-induced aortitis (PFIA) and compare them with those of other large-vessel vasculitis.

Methods

We enrolled 45 patients diagnosed with the following: PFIA, n = 8; Takayasu arteritis (TA), n = 12; giant cell arteritis (GCA), n = 6; and immunoglobulin G4–related aortitis (IgG4-A), n = 19. Records of PET/CT performed before treatment initiation were collected. The aorta and its branches were divided into 16 anatomic regions. Presence of abnormal18F-FDG uptake in each region was determined and measured.

Results

The18F-FDG–positive areas of PFIA were distributed in the regions of the ascending aorta to the suprarenal abdominal aorta, cervical branches of the aorta, and external iliac arteries, similar to those of TA. However, TA had a higher proportion of18F-FDG–positive areas than PFIA in almost all anatomic regions. These areas of GCA were widespread throughout the entire aorta and the upper and lower limbs, whereas those of IgG4-A were observed from the abdominal aorta to iliac arteries. SUVmax, SUVpeak, metabolic volume, and total lesion glycolysis were higher in GCA than in PFIA, TA, and IgG4-A.

Conclusions

Pegfilgrastim-induced aortitis distribution on PET/CT was frequently observed in the aorta, cervical branches, and extra iliac arteries. The low proportion of18F-FDG–positive areas in PFIA was different from that of TA, GCA, and IgG4-A. These findings may help identify and differentiate various aortitis types in clinical practice.
Pulmonary Cryptococcosis
Authors: Liu Mengna , Liu Huipan , Chen Xi , Zhang Song , Cai Liang
Published: September 2023

A 57-year-old woman without hepatitis B or immunodeficiency presented with right upper abdominal pain and cough for 3 months. CT revealed one nodule in the lung and another in the liver. Both 18F-FDG and 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT showed increased tracer uptake in these 2 nodules, suggesting pulmonary carcinoma with hepatic metastasis. Finally, biopsies of these 2 nodules demonstrated the diagnoses of hepatic adenocarcinoma and pulmonary cryptococcosis. This case highlights that cryptococcosis can be FAPI-avid.
The Efficacy of Tranexamic Acid in Craniomaxillofacial Surgery: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhao Minghao , Luo Yuna , Guo Ziying , Mu Lin , Lu Jianjian
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the use of tranexamic acid in craniomaxillofacial surgery by meta-analysis. A comprehensive search was performed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) mainly in 3 electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library) before August 2022. We collected and managed data for weighted mean difference of intraoperative blood loss, transfusion requirement, and operation time for the study. A total of 13 randomized controlled trials were included in the analysis. Compared with the control group, the tranexamic acid group showed a reduction in intraoperative blood loss of 198.67 ml (95% CI: −258.84 to −138.50 ml, P<0.00001), with blood transfusion requirement decreased by 7.77 ml/kg (95% CI: −10.80 to −4.73, P<0.0001) and less operation time (weighted mean difference= −10.39 min; 95% CI: −16.49 to −4.30 min, P=0.0008).
A Photo Score For Aesthetic Outcome In Sagittal Synostosis: An ERN CRANIO Collaboration
Authors: Gaillard Linda ,   ERN CRANIO–Craniosynostosis Workgroup
Published: September 2023

European Reference Network (ERN) CRANIO is focused on optimizing care for patients with rare or complex craniofacial anomalies, including craniosynostosis and/or rare ear, nose, and throat disorders. The main goal of ERN CRANIO is to collect uniform data on treatment outcomes for multicenter comparison. We aimed to develop a reproducible and reliable suture-specific photo score that can be used for cross-center comparison of phenotypical severity of sagittal synostosis and aesthetic outcome of treatment. We conducted a retrospective study among nonsyndromic sagittal synostosis patients aged <19 years. We included preoperative and postoperative photo sets from 6 ERN CRANIO centers. Photo sets included bird’s eye, lateral, and anterior-posterior views. The sagittal synostosis photo score was discussed in the working group, and consensus was obtained on its contents. Interrater agreement was assessed with weighted Fleiss’ Kappa and intraclass correlation coefficients.The photo score consisted of frontal bossing, elongated skull, biparietal narrowness, temporal hollowing, vertex line depression, occipital bullet, and overall phenotype. Each item was scored as normal, mild, moderate, or severe. Results from 36 scaphocephaly patients scored by 20 raters showed kappa values ranging from 0.38 [95% bootstrap CI: 0.31, 0.45] for biparietal narrowness to 0.56 [95% bootstrap CI: 0.47, 0.64] for frontal bossing. Agreement was highest for the sum score of individual items [intraclass correlation coefficients agreement 0.69 [95% CI: 0.57, 0.82]. This is the first large-scale multicenter study in which experts investigated a photo score to assess the severity of sagittal synostosis phenotypical characteristics. Agreement on phenotypical characteristics was suboptimal (fair-moderate agreement) and highest for the summed score of individual photo score items (substantial agreement), indicating that although experts interpret phenotypical characteristics differently, there is consensus on overall phenotypical severity.
Development and Validation of a Novel Literature-Based Method to Identify Disparity-Sensitive Surgical Quality Metrics
Authors: de Jager Elzerie , Levine Adele A , Sidey-Gibbons Chris J , Udyavar N Rhea , Liu Charles , Lamaina Margherita , Maggard Gibbons Melinda A , Ko Clifford Y , Burstin Helen R , Haider Adil H , Hoyt David B , Schoenfeld Andrew J , Weissman Joel S , Britt LD
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Disparity in surgical care impedes the delivery of uniformly high-quality care. Metrics that quantify disparity in care can help identify areas for needed intervention. A literature-based Disparity-Sensitive Score (DSS) system for surgical care was adapted by the Metrics for Equitable Access and Care in Surgery (MEASUR) group. The alignment between the MEASUR DSS and Delphi ratings of an expert advisory panel (EAP) regarding the disparity sensitivity of surgical quality metrics was assessed.

STUDY DESIGN:

Using DSS criteria MEASUR co-investigators scored 534 surgical metrics which were subsequently rated by the EAP. All scores were converted to a 9-point scale. Agreement between the new measurement technique (ie DSS) and an established subjective technique (ie importance and validity ratings) were assessed using the Bland-Altman method, adjusting for the linear relationship between the paired difference and the paired average. The limit of agreement (LOA) was set at 1.96 SD (95%).

RESULTS:

The percentage of DSS scores inside the LOA was 96.8% (LOA, 0.02 points) for the importance rating and 94.6% (LOA, 1.5 points) for the validity rating. In comparison, 94.4% of the 2 subjective EAP ratings were inside the LOA (0.7 points).

CONCLUSIONS:

Applying the MEASUR DSS criteria using available literature allowed for identification of disparity-sensitive surgical metrics. The results suggest that this literature-based method of selecting quality metrics may be comparable to more complex consensus-based Delphi methods. In fields with robust literature, literature-based composite scores may be used to select quality metrics rather than assembling consensus panels.
Practical and Ethical Guidelines for the Involvement of Trainees in Global Surgery: Consensus Statement and Recommendations from the Resident and Associate Society of the American College of Surgeons Global Surgery Work Group
Authors: Scott Erin M , Enumah Zachary O , Mehta Kajal , Kontchou Nelly-Ange , Davis Rachel W
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

The guidelines provided by United States professional surgical organizations for involvement of trainees in global surgery are limited. The aim of this consensus statement is to provide surgical trainees with official recommendations from the Resident and Associate Society of the American College of Surgeons (RAS-ACS) Global Surgery Work Group (GSWG) regarding professional, practical, and ethical guidelines for participation in global surgery endeavors.

STUDY DESIGN:

A task force was created within the GSWG to review and define the scope of involvement of trainees in global surgery, and a consensus process was undertaken for the group at large to approve a set of proposed guidelines.

RESULTS:

The list of practical and ethical guidelines for the engagement of trainees in global surgery, covering the themes of Preparedness, Reciprocity and Collaboration, Ethical Considerations, and Sustainability, was approved with consensus from the GSWG.

CONCLUSION:

This consensus statement from the RAS-ACS GSWG outlines the official recommendations for guidelines for involvement of trainees in global surgery, with an aim to support equitable, sustainable collaborations that center on improving access to safe, timely, and affordable surgical care for the global community at-large. Future processes seek to involve representation and perspectives from a larger body of low-to-middle income country surgical trainees.
Waiting in crowded places: influence of number of pedestrians, waiting time and obstacles
Authors: Küpper Mira , Seyfried Armin
Published: September 2023

At crowded places, like railway platforms at rush hour, the spatial distribution of waiting pedestrians has a significant influence on performance and level of comfort. However, the choice of waiting places and the resulting spatial distribution of the crowd have rarely been studied. This study investigates the effects of obstacles, number of passengers and waiting time on the distribution of waiting passengers. Laboratory experiments were performed using a mock-up platform with three set-ups: without obstacles, with a narrow and a wide obstacle. Density profiles determine preferred waiting places. While the space usage by waiting passengers is inhomogeneous, the distances between the individuals show surprisingly small variations, regardless of obstacles and number of passengers. This suggests a robust collective optimization of the crowd when searching for waiting positions. In doing so, and without necessity, the participants chose distances to each other extending into the personal zone specified in classical personal-space-concepts. These results indicate necessary refinements of the concept by considering context and collective behaviour. The findings are transformed into floor-fields modelling the space usage by a superposition of attractive or repulsive areas which consider optimization of distances and comfort. This model does not only reproduce the waiting places at platforms but can be adapted for other use cases.