bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two cases of successful sirolimus treatment for patients with activated phosphoinositide 3-kinase δ syndrome 1
Authors: Jiang Lu , Hu Xiaohan , Lin Qiang , Chen Ruyue , Shen Yunyan , Zhu Yun , Xu Qinying , Li Xiaozhong
Published: September 2023

Background

Activated phosphoinositide3-kinase (PI3K) δ syndrome 1 (APDS1) is a novel inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) caused by heterozygous gain of function mutations in PI3Kδ catalytic p110δ (PIK3CD). APDS1 has a spectrum of clinical manifestations. Recurrent respiratory infections, lymphoproliferation, hepatosplenomegaly, hyper-IgM syndrome and autoimmunity are the common symptoms of this disease.

Case Presentation

Patient 1 presented with recurrent respiratory infections, hepatosplenomegaly and hyper-IgM syndrome. Patient 2 developed early onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-like disease with resistant thrombocytopenia. c.3061 G > A and c.2314G > A variants in the PIK3CD gene were detected by whole exome sequencing in two patients respectively. c.2314G > A variant in PIK3CD gene of patient 2 is a newly report. After genetic diagnosis, two patients received sirolimus treatment and sirolimus alleviated clinical manifestations, including hepatosplenomegaly in patient 1 and thrombocytopenia in patient 2.

Conclusion

Genetics diagnosis should be considered in patients with complicated clinical manifestations with no or insufficient response to the conventional therapies. If whole exome sequencing suggests a variant in PIK3CD gene, sirolimus may relieve hepatosplenomegaly and resistant thrombocytopenia. This is the first report of c.2314G > A variant in PIK3CD gene.
Effect of once versus twice intracoronary injection of allogeneic-derived mesenchymal stromal cells after acute myocardial infarction: BOOSTER-TAHA7 randomized clinical trial
Authors: Attar Armin , Farjoud Kouhanjani Mohsen , Hessami Kamran , Vosough Massoud , Kojuri Javad , Ramzi Mani , Hosseini Seyed Ali , Faghih Marjan , Monabati Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Background

Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) transplantation can improve the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Transplanted MSCs exert a paracrine effect, which might be augmented if repeated doses are administered. This study aimed to compare the effects of single versus double transplantation of Wharton’s jelly MSCs (WJ-MSCs) on LVEF post-AMI.

Methods

We conducted a single-blind, randomized, multicenter trial. After 3–7 days of an AMI treated successfully by primary PCI, 70 patients younger than 65 with LVEF < 40% on baseline echocardiography were randomized to receive conventional care, a single intracoronary infusion of WJ-MSCs, or a repeated infusion 10 days later. The primary endpoint was the 6-month LVEF improvement as per cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging.

Results

The mean baseline EF measured by CMR was similar (~ 40%) in all three groups. By the end of the trial, while all patients experienced a rise in EF, the most significant change was seen in the repeated intervention group. Compared to the control group (n = 25), single MSC transplantation (n = 20) improved the EF by 4.54 ± 2%, and repeated intervention (n = 20) did so by 7.45 ± 2% when measured by CMR imaging (P < 0.001); when evaluated by echocardiography, these values were 6.71 ± 2.4 and 10.71 ± 2.5%, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Intracoronary transplantation of WJ-MSCs 3–7 days after AMI in selected patients significantly improves LVEF, with the infusion of a booster dose 10 days later augmenting this effect.

Trial registration: Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials, IRCT20201116049408N1. Retrospectively Registered 20 Nov. 2020, https://en.irct.ir/trial/52357
Transcriptomic analysis of stem cells from chorionic villi uncovers the impact of chromosomes 2, 6 and 22 in the clinical manifestations of Down syndrome
Authors: Vaiasicca Salvatore , Melone Gianmarco , James David W. , Quintela Marcos , Preziuso Alessandra , Finnell Richard H. , Conlan Robert Steven , Francis Lewis W. , Corradetti Bruna
Published: September 2023

Background

Down syndrome (DS) clinical multisystem condition is generally considered the result of a genetic imbalance generated by the extra copy of chromosome 21. Recent discoveries, however, demonstrate that the molecular mechanisms activated in DS compared to euploid individuals are more complex than previously thought. Here, we utilize mesenchymal stem cells from chorionic villi (CV) to uncover the role of comprehensive functional genomics-based understanding of DS complexity.

Methods

Next-generation sequencing coupled with bioinformatic analysis was performed on CV obtained from women carrying fetuses with DS (DS-CV) to reveal specific genome-wide transcriptional changes compared to their euploid counterparts. Functional assays were carried out to confirm the biological processes identified as enriched in DS-CV compared to CV (i.e., cell cycle, proliferation features, immunosuppression and ROS production).

Results

Genes located on chromosomes other than the canonical 21 (Ch. 2, 6 and 22) are responsible for the impairment of life-essential pathways, including cell cycle regulation, innate immune response and reaction to external stimuli were found to be differentially expressed in DS-CV. Experimental validation confirmed the key role of the biological pathways regulated by those genes in the etiology of such a multisystem condition.

Conclusions

NGS dataset generated in this study highlights the compromised functionality in the proliferative rate and in the innate response of DS-associated clinical conditions and identifies DS-CV as suitable tools for the development of specifically tailored, personalized intervention modalities.
Mass-Suite: a novel open-source python package for high-resolution mass spectrometry data analysis
Authors: Hu Ximin , Mar Derek , Suzuki Nozomi , Zhang Bowei , Peter Katherine T. , Beck David A. C. , Kolodziej Edward P.
Published: September 2023

Mass-Suite (MSS) is a Python-based, open-source software package designed to analyze high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS)-based non-targeted analysis (NTA) data, particularly for water quality assessment and other environmental applications. MSS provides flexible, user-defined workflows for HRMS data processing and analysis, including both basic functions (e.g., feature extraction, data reduction, feature annotation, data visualization, and statistical analyses) and advanced exploratory data mining and predictive modeling capabilities that are not provided by currently available open-source software (e.g., unsupervised clustering analyses, a machine learning-based source tracking and apportionment tool). As a key advance, most core MSS functions are supported by machine learning algorithms (e.g., clustering algorithms and predictive modeling algorithms) to facilitate function accuracy and/or efficiency. MSS reliability was validated with mixed chemical standards of known composition, with 99.5% feature extraction accuracy and ~ 52% overlap of extracted features relative to other open-source software tools. Example user cases of laboratory data evaluation are provided to illustrate MSS functionalities and demonstrate reliability. MSS expands available HRMS data analysis workflows for water quality evaluation and environmental forensics, and is readily integrated with existing capabilities. As an open-source package, we anticipate further development of improved data analysis capabilities in collaboration with interested users.

Graphical abstract
Iterative machine learning-based chemical similarity search to identify novel chemical inhibitors
Authors: Durai Prasannavenkatesh , Lee Sue Jung , Lee Jae Wook , Pan Cheol-Ho , Park Keunwan
Published: September 2023

Machine learning-based chemical screening has made substantial progress in recent years. However, these predictions often have low accuracy and high uncertainty when identifying new active chemical scaffolds. Hence, a high proportion of retrieved compounds are not structurally novel. In this study, we proposed a strategy to address this issue by iteratively optimizing an evolutionary chemical binding similarity (ECBS) model using experimental validation data. Various data update and model retraining schemes were tested to efficiently incorporate new experimental data into ECBS models, resulting in a fine-tuned ECBS model with improved accuracy and coverage. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, we identified the novel hit molecules for the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1). These molecules showed sub-micromolar affinity (Kd 0.1–5.3 μM) to MEKs and were distinct from previously-known MEK1 inhibitors. We also determined the binding specificity of different MEK isoforms and proposed potential docking models. Furthermore, using de novo drug design tools, we utilized one of the new MEK inhibitors to generate additional drug-like molecules with improved binding scores. This resulted in the identification of several potential MEK1 inhibitors with better binding affinity scores. Our results demonstrated the potential of this approach for identifying novel hit molecules and optimizing their binding affinities.
Semi-automating abstract screening with a natural language model pretrained on biomedical literature
Authors: Ng Sheryl Hui-Xian , Teow Kiok Liang , Ang Gary Yee , Tan Woan Shin , Hum Allyn
Published: September 2023

We demonstrate the performance and workload impact of incorporating a natural language model, pretrained on citations of biomedical literature, on a workflow of abstract screening for studies on prognostic factors in end-stage lung disease. The model was optimized on one-third of the abstracts, and model performance on the remaining abstracts was reported. Performance of the model, in terms of sensitivity, precision, F1 and inter-rater agreement, was moderate in comparison with other published models. However, incorporating it into the screening workflow, with the second reviewer screening only abstracts with conflicting decisions, translated into a 65% reduction in the number of abstracts screened by the second reviewer. Subsequent work will look at incorporating the pre-trained BERT model into screening workflows for other studies prospectively, as well as improving model performance.
Effect of pH and temperature on the biodegradation of oxytetracycline, streptomycin, and validamycin A in soil
Authors: Kim Seon Hui , Park So Yun , Kim Ga Eun , Jho Eun Hea
Published: September 2023

Residual antibiotics in agricultural soils can be of concern due to the development of antibiotic resistant microorganisms. Among various antibiotics, oxytetracycline (OTC), streptomycin (ST), and validamycin A (VA) have been used for agricultural purposes in South Korea; however, studies on the biodegradation of these antibiotics in soil are limited. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of pH (5.5, 6.8, and 7.4) and temperature (1.8, 23.0, and 31.2 °C) conditions on the biodegradation of these antibiotics in soil. The biodegradation tests were carried out in the field soil (FS) and rice paddy soil (RS) for 30 d with OTC and ST and 10 d with VA, and the residual antibiotics concentrations were monitored over the degradation period. Under various conditions, the degradation rates of ST was lower (11–69%) than that of OTC (60–90%) and VA (15–96%). The degradation half-lives of OTC and VA tend to decrease with increasing pH value, while the degradation half-life of ST tend to increase with increasing pH value. But, the effect of soil pH on the antibiotics degradation was not statistically significant, except for ST in the FS and RS and VA in the FS. The degradation of three antibiotics was greater at higher temperatures (23.0 °C and 31.2 °C) than at lower temperature (1.8 °C), and the degradation half-lives decreased with increasing temperature. The different degradation characteristics of different antibiotics in soil can be explained by the different characteristics of the antibiotics (e.g., sorption affinity, chemical forms) and soil (e.g., organic matter content). The results suggest that the degradation characteristics of antibiotics need to be considered in order to properly manage the residual antibiotics in soil.
Mapping the global research landscape on malnutrition for patients with chronic kidney disease: a visualization analysis
Authors: Shakhshir Muna H. , Vanoh Divya , Hassan Mohanad , Zyoud Sa’ed H.
Published: September 2023

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is seen as a diverse disease and a primary contributor to global mortality. Malnutrition arises within chronic illness, which involves protein energy depletion and inadequate levels of essential nutrients. These factors increase the likelihood of death and the overall impact of the disease on affected individuals. Consequently, this study aims to utilize bibliometric and visual analysis to assess the current state of research, the latest advances and emerging patterns in the fields of CKD and malnutrition.

Methods

Extensive research was conducted using the Scopus database, which is the most authoritative database of research publications and citations, to focus on CKD research between 2003 and 2022, as indicated by title and author keywords. Then, within this vast collection of academic publications, a notable subset of articles was exclusively dedicated to investigating the relationship between CKD and malnutrition. Finally, we performed bibliometric analysis and visualization using VOSviewer 1.6.19 and Microsoft Excel 2013.

Results

Large global research between 2003 and 2022 resulted in 50,588 documents focused on CKD, as indicated by title and author keywords. In this extensive collection of scientific publications, a staggering portion of 823 articles is devoted exclusively to investigating the link between CKD and malnutrition. Further analysis reveals that this body of work consists of 565 articles (68.65%), 221 reviews (26.85%), and 37 miscellaneous entries (4.50%), which encompass letters and editorials. The USA was found to be the most productive country (n = 173; 21.02%), followed by Italy (n = 83; 10.09%), Sweden (n = 56; 6.80%), Brazil (n = 54; 6.56%) and China (n = 51; 6.20%). The most common terms on the map include those related to the topic of (a) malnutrition in hemodialysis patients and predicting factors; terms associated with the (b) impact of malnutrition on cardiovascular risk and complications in CKD patients; and terms related to the (c) dietary protein intake and malnutrition in CKD.

Conclusions

This study is the first of its kind to analyze CKD and malnutrition research using data from Scopus for visualization and network mapping. Recent trends indicate an increasing focus on protein-energy wasting/malnutrition in hemodialysis patients and predicting factors, dietary protein intake, and malnutrition in CKD. These topics have gained significant attention and reflect the latest scientific advances. Intervention studies are crucial to examining diet therapy's impact on patients with stages 1 to 5 CKD. We hope this study will offer researchers, dietitians and nephrologists valuable information.
“Your Family is Always With You”: Perceptions of Parental Relationships Among Hispanic/Latinx Young Adults Pursuing STEM Careers
Authors: Frederick Angela , Monarrez Angelica , Morales Danielle X. , Daniels Heather A. , Grineski Sara E. , Collins Timothy W.
Published: September 2023

While participants reported benefiting from immense support from their parents, this emotional support was simultaneously coupled with tensions between the demands of school and their families, as well as what the authors term “conversational constraints” with their parents.
Dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasonography with sonazoid predicts microvascular invasion in early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huang Zhe , Xin Jun-Yi , Wu Ling-Ling , Luo Hong-Chang , Li Kaiyan
Published: September 2023

Objective

Microvascular invasion (MVI) is an independent risk factor for the early recurrence and poor survival of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aims to investigate the potential clinical value of dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound (DCE-ultrasound)-Sonazoid in pre-operatively assessing MVI in HCC.

Methods and materials

This single centre prospective study included 140 patients with histopathologically confirmed single HCC lesions. Patients were classified according to the post-operative pathological information presence of MVI: MVI+ group (n = 32) and MVI– group (n = 108). All patients underwent DCE-ultrasound within 1 week before surgery. The quantitative perfusion parameters of HCC lesions, margins of HCC lesions, and distal liver parenchyma were obtained and analyzed.

Results

Clinicopathological (serum alpha-fetoprotein, Des-gamma-carboxyprothrombin, and pathological grade) and grayscale imaging features (tumor size) were significantly different between the MVI+ and MVI– groups (p < 0.05). Further quantitative analysis showed that when comparing the MVI+ and MVI– groups, half-decrease time and wash-out rate of HCC lesions and peak enhancement in the arterial phase of difference between the margin area of HCC and distal liver parenchyma were significantly different (p = 0.045, p = 0.035, and p = 0.023, respectively). Combining the above three quantitative parameters, the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive-predictive value, and negative-predictive value were 69.3% (97/140), 37.8% (17/45), 84.3% (80/95), 53.1% (17/32), 74.1% (80/108), respectively.

Conclusion:

DCE-ultrasound with quantitative perfusion analysis has the potential to predict MVI in HCC lesions.

Advances in knowledge

DCE-ultrasound with quantitative perfusion analysis has the potential to predict MVI in HCC lesions.
Acute and chronic venous occlusion
Authors: Rahmani George , O'Sullivan Gerard J
Published: September 2023

This review article provides an overview of acute and chronic venous occlusion, a condition that can cause significant morbidity and mortality if not diagnosed and treated promptly. The article begins with an introduction to the anatomy of the venous system, followed by a discussion of the causes and clinical features of venous occlusion. The diagnostic tools available for the assessment of venous occlusion, including imaging modalities such as ultrasound, CT, and MRI, are then discussed, along with their respective advantages and limitations. The article also covers the treatment options for acute and chronic venous occlusion, including anticoagulant therapy and endovascular interventions. This review aims to provide radiologists with an updated understanding of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of acute and chronic venous occlusion.
Detecting residual soft tissue sarcoma after unplanned excision; model-free analysis of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI at short-term follow-up
Authors: Ahn Hyemin , Lee Min Hee , Byun Seung Hee , Kim Hwa Jung , Kim Wanlim , Chee Choong Geun , Chung Hye Won , Yoon Min A , Lee Sang Hoon
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To evaluate diagnostic utility of additional DCE-MRI for detecting residual soft tissue sarcomas (STS) after unplanned excision (UPE).

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 32 patients with UPE of STS, followed by conventional MRI with DCE-MRI and wide excision (WE), between November 2019 and January 2022. Residual tumors on conventional MRI were categorized into three groups: Lesion-type-0, no abnormal enhancement, Lesion-type-1, an indeterminate lesion, and Lesion-type-2, a definite enhancing nodule. On DCE-MRI, ROIs were manually placed on enhancing areas of suspected residual tumor. The mean and 95th percentile values of AUC of time-intensity curve were calculated at 60, 90, and 120 s of Enhancement-cycle-1 and -2. Optimal DCE parameters were identified by ROC analysis. Diagnostic performance of conventional MRI and DCE-MRI was compared using McNemar’s test.

Results

On WE, residual tumor was present in 23 (71.9%) of 32 patients. On MRI, Lesion-type-1 was found in 16/32 (50%) patients and Lesion-type-2 in 16/32 (50%). The optimal DCE parameter was the 95th percentile value of AUC at 120s of Enhancement-cycle-2. The sensitivity, specificity, and AUC were as follows: 65.2% (95% CI, 45.8–85.7%), 88.9% (CI, 68.4–100%), and 0.77 (CI, 0.62–0.92) for conventional MRI, and 100%, 55.6% (CI, 23.1–88.0%), and 0.78 (CI, 0.61–0.95) for combined conventional and DCE-MRI.

Conclusions

Additional DCE-MRI aided in detecting residual STS after UPE, particularly in cases without definite soft tissue nodular enhancement.

Advances in knowledge

Close follow up may be suggested for patients showing abnormality in DCE-MRI, with more suspicion of residual tumor.
The utility of [18F]Fluciclovine PET/CT in Evaluating Nonmetastatic Castrate-Resistant Prostate Cancer Patients (nmCRPCp): diagnostic performance and impact on management
Authors: Soliman Moataz , Elfatairy Kareem , Ellessy Reham , Velichko Yury S , Avery Ryan , kelahan Linda C , Ross Ashley E , Savas Hatice
Published: September 2023

Objective:

To evaluate the role of [18F]Fluciclovine PET/CT scan in restaging nmCRPCp and its impact on management.

Methods and materials:

This retrospective study included all patients with nonmetastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer, who underwent [18F]Fluciclovine PET/CT scans for restaging who had concern for disease progression. Two radiologists independently reviewed the PET/CT studies, assigned an overall impression, and reported the site and number of radiotracer activities in consensus and impact on management was recorded. Available tissue diagnosis and/or six-month clinical and imaging follow-up were used as reference standards.

Results:

Thirty-five patients were included in this study. At least one lesion was detected in 73% (26/35) of the scans. Management changed in 71% (25/35) of patients, (22 positives and three negative scans). 26.9% (7/26) of patients were found to have an oligometastatic disease. Based on the reference standards, the diagnostic performance of [18F]Fluciclovine PET/CT in detecting recurrence in nmCRCP has 86%, sensitivity, 83% specificity, 96.1% PPV, and 55.5% NPV. There was no relationship between the Gleason score and a positive PET/CT scan in our patient population.

Conclusion:

Detecting the source of recurrence is challenging in nmCRCP patients when conventional imaging fails. Given the high PPV, sensitivity, and specificity, [18F]Fluciclovine PET/CT can be used instead of conventional imaging as a first-line choice due to its superiority over bone scan and added value of detecting soft tissue metastasis regardless of the initial Gleason score.

Advances in knowledge:

The study highlights the added value of [18F]Fluciclovine PET/CT in detecting soft tissue metastasis regardless of the initial Gleason score, which is not possible with conventional imaging such as bone scans.

The study highlights the potential role of [18F]Fluciclovine PET/CT guiding management change for nonmetastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer patients, particularly those with oligometastatic disease.
Building on the Health Policy Analysis Triangle: Elucidation of the Elements
Authors: Zahidie Aysha , Iqbal Meesha , Asif Saima
Published: September 2023

The health policy triangle first presented in the 20th century by Walt and Gilson has been extensively used at local, national, regional, and international levels to assess health policies related to communicable and non-communicable diseases, physical and mental health, antenatal and postnatal care, and human resources, services, and systems. However, the framework lacks intricate details for the four pillars in the triangle viz: ‘content,’ ‘context’, ‘actors’, and ‘processes. We propose a checklist of elements to be considered for each pillar; to ease and enhance the process of policy analyses for researchers and policymakers across the globe, including low- and middle-income countries. We suggest using Leichter’s categorization of situational, structural, cultural, and environmental factors for comprehensive contextual assessment. Kingdon’s multiple streams framework can be applied to determine the ‘window of opportunity’ allowing the politics, policy, and problem streams to unite, giving birth to the formulation of policies. Lastly, stakeholders’ analyses expounding the power, influence, interest, and involvement of intrinsic, extrinsic, implicit, and explicit players should be applied to explore the ‘actors’ in policy analyses. Robust policy analyses for generating evidence are of paramount importance for policymakers for informed decision-making. Our approach of dis-entangling and elaborating the pillars of the triangle will be helpful for health systems researchers at sub-national, national, regional and global levels to serve as a basis for evidence-based informed decision-making.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7056

How to cite this: Zahidie A, Asif S, Iqbal M. Building on the Health Policy Analysis Triangle: Elucidation of the Elements. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(6):1865-1868 doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7056

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Diagnostic Accuracy of 18F-FDG PET - CT Imaging in determining the bone marrow involvement (BMI) in pediatric Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (HL)
Authors: Naveed Sana , Faheem Hira , Shazlee Kashif , Ashraf Muhammad Shamvil
Published: September 2023

Objective: To determine diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG PET - CT imaging in determining Bone marrow involvement in pediatric HL by taking bone marrow biopsy as standard.

Method: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Indus Hospital and Health Network, Karachi from July 2021 to December 2022. Treatment naïve histologically proven pediatric HL patients of both gender and aged between two to 16 years with both 18F-FDG PET - CT and bone marrow biopsy imaging were included. Basic demographics such as age, gender, height, weight, as well as classification and staging of HL was obtained. Results were assessed by expert reviewers who were blinded to clinical outcome. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and diagnostic precision were assessed. The data was analyzed via SPSS 26.0.

Results: Total 131 participants were included with a male predominance i.e. 104 (79.6%). The mean (±SD) age was 8.7 ± 3.4 years. The present study reported PET/CT to have a sensitivity, specificity diagnostic accuracy, PPV and NPV of 94.1%, 92%, 92%, 64% and 99% respectively.

Conclusion: Our findings support the idea that BMB should not be routinely conducted in all patients but rather can be reserved exclusively for patients with dubious 18F-FDG bone marrow findings, as this test has strong diagnostic potential for evaluating BMI involvement in HL.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7721

How to cite this: Naveed S, Faheem H, Shazlee K, Ashraf MS. Diagnostic Accuracy of 18F-FDG PET - CT Imaging in determining the bone marrow involvement (BMI) in pediatric Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (HL). Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(6):1830-1834. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7721

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The impact of glaucomatous disease on lifestyle and healthy aging. Association between structural visual and auditory functional changes in glaucoma
Authors: Neacsu Alina Mihaela , Sporea Corina , Anton Nicoleta , Lapusneanu Lucian , Andrei Maria Cristina , Cosman Mihaela , Ferechide Dumitru
Published: September 2023

Abstract: In the last decade, it was concluded that glaucomatous optic neuropathy is part of the
neurodegenerative diseases in which destructive neuronal lesions are located not only in the structure of the retina, but they are also present at the level of the central visual and nervous pathways.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the degree of involvement of the auditory system in
patients with Primitive Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG), the structural changes in the optic nerve,
and to establish correlation between the hearing loss and structural changes in the optic nerve. Material and methods: It is a prospective, cross-sectional study on 32 eyes of 16 subjects with POAG
in a study group and 24 eyes of 12 healthy subjects in control group, with a mean age of 62 years in
both groups. Both groups underwent ophthalmological, audiological and brain magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) evaluation. Results: In the Study group patients, compared to the Control group,
the average levels of the left Pure-tone audiometry (PTA), the cup/disc (C/D) area in both eyes, and
the C/D ratio in both eyes are increased. Conclusions: Patients with POAG show changes in audiometry test in correlation with ophthalmological parameters demonstrating that the auditory system can be affected in glaucoma.
Generalized Synthetic Control for TestOps at ABI: Models, Algorithms, and Infrastructure
Authors: Costa Luis , Farias Vivek F. , Foncea Patricio , Gan Jingyuan (Donna) , Garg Ayush , Montenegro Ivo Rosa , Pathak Kumarjit , Peng Tianyi , Popovic Dusan
Published: September 2023

We describe a novel optimization-based approach—generalized synthetic control (GSC)—in which we learn from experiments conducted in a physical retail environment. GSC solves a long-standing problem of learning from experiments conducted in this environment when treatment effects are small, the environment is extremely noisy and nonstationary, and interference and adherence problems are commonplace. The utilization of GSC has demonstrated a remarkable increase in statistical power, approximately one hundredfold (100×) higher than conventional inferential methods. This innovative approach forms the basis of TestOps, a pioneering large-scale experimentation platform designed specifically for physical retailers. TestOps was developed and has been broadly implemented as part of a collaboration between Anheuser Busch Inbev (ABI) and a team of operations researchers and data engineers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. TestOps currently runs physical experiments impacting approximately 135 million USD in revenue every month and routinely identifies innovations that result in a 1%–2% increase in sales volume. The vast majority of these innovations would have remained unidentified had we not developed our novel approach to inference. Prior to our implementation, statistically significant conclusions could be drawn on only ∼6% of all experiments, a fraction that has now increased by 10-fold. Given its success, TestOps is being rolled out globally at ABI, driving significant revenue growth and enabling the extraction of valuable insights from large-scale physical experiments.

History: This paper has been accepted for the INFORMS Journal on Applied Analytics Special Issue—2022 Daniel H. Wagner Prize for Excellence in the Practice of Advanced Analytics and Operations Research.
Peregrine UAS Set for Royal Navy Deployment
Authors: Wade Andrew
Published: September 2023

Initially set for deployment on the Type 23, the plug-and-play capabilities of Peregrine could extend across the Royal Navy's fleet
Cicero and the Mirage of the Tirocinium Fori
Authors: White Peter
Published: September 2023

Abstract: Assumptions about the tirocinium fori are based on claims by Joachim Marquardt that it was a form of training for young elite Romans at about the age of 16, that it lasted for one year, and that it consisted of mentorship by a distinguished elder. Though there is little evidence to support these claims, the theory of a tirocinium fori continues to influence discussions of oratory in the age of Cicero, where it gives a false picture of the process by which aspiring young orators made the transition from the school of rhetoric to practice in the courts.
Perhaps a Fish, Surely an Ostrich, and Definitely a Fool: The Ontology of Insults at De Constantia Sapientis 17.1
Authors: Gazzarri Tommaso
Published: September 2023

Abstract: De Constantia Sapientis 17.1 contains two animal-based insults, the interpretation of which has heretofore proven controversial because of the difficulties in pinpointing the exact nature/identity of comparandum and comparatum . An adequate appreciation of the passage requires assessing the function of these contumeliae within Seneca's philosophical strategy. Their ontological vacuity reflects the imaginative status of the two animals selected to construct the jibes. Thus, one should resist rage, not only on account of this passion being self-damaging but also because imagination is a faulty cognitive process.
Movement in Italian Dramatizations of J. S. Bach's Passions: From the Church to the Theater and Back
Authors: Borghesi Maria
Published: September 2023

Abstract: The dramatization of J. S. Bach's Passions is now an accepted fact among audiences and music critics, but what were the beginnings of this tradition? This article examines the first two stagings of the St. John Passion and the St. Matthew Passion . These appeared in 1984–1985, staged by Pier Luigi Pizzi and Jurij Ljubimov, respectively, in two major Italian theaters (Teatro la Fenice in Venice and Teatro alla Scala in Milan) on the occasion of Bach's 300th anniversary and the European Year of Music. The focus is on the dimension of movement and the interaction among stage space, those involved in the production, and the audience. Using the available materials, I sketch the contours of the performance spaces, define the role of the actors on stage, and attempt to reconstruct their movements in relation to Bach's music and the Gospel narrative. These two case studies are related to other experiences with the dramatization of Bach's Passions in the Italian context by Edward Gordon Craig (1913, 1933), Ferruccio Busoni (1924), and Vittorio Biagi (1974, 1983, 1985). The aim is to identify common issues related to the staging of the Passions, and to clarify the ways in which macroand micro-movements were important for mediating Lutheran works such as the Passions for Catholicism.
Working on "A Never-Ending Puzzle": A Narrative Study Examining How Latina Collegians' Mothers Informed Their Meaning Making About Intersecting Identities
Authors: Reyes Hannah L. , Duran Antonio
Published: September 2023

Abstract: Higher education scholarship has underscored how contextual influences within and outside institutional settings influence students' developmental journeys. A subset of research has examined how Latinx/a/o students broach questions of identity while in college and how families inform their development. Yet, little scholarship has investigated how Latina collegians uniquely experience familial influences given their multiple minoritized identities. Centering the stories of 12 Latina collegians, this narrative study explored how they made meaning of their intersecting identities as they entered and moved through higher education, with their maternal relationships as a central area of interest. We studied how Latinas described verbal and implicit messages from their mothers; we then analyzed how these participants discussed their meaning-making processes relative to those messages using the intersectional model of multiple dimensions of identity (Jones et al., 2013) as a framework. Findings revealed the following: (a) maternal figures' early influence on the recognition of one's social location and systems reinforcing their positioning, (b) meaning making in college that complicated what participants learned about their identities from their mothers, and (c) strategies Latina collegians used to reconcile maternal and other external influences as they moved toward living authentically. We provide implications for future research on Latina collegians' identity development, as well as recommendations for higher education and student affairs practice.
BIPOC Student Leaders in Predominantly White Institutions: Who They Work With, Who They Work For, and Why Their Work is Needed
Authors: Mitchell Tania D. , Fulton Leah N. , Boey Leslie W. , Cruz Tabatha
Published: September 2023

Abstract: This study explored the experiences of undergraduate BIPOC students in leadership education and development programs at two predominantly white institutions of higher education. Informed by interpretative phenomenological analysis, interviews with 36 students in various leadership roles (including residence life, peer mentoring, student government, and cultural organizations) demonstrated how values of community, collaboration, and justice guide their perspectives and commitments regarding leadership. Implications for research and practice to create better support structures for BIPOC student leaders are offered.
Volumetrically tracking retinal and choroidal structural changes in central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Wang Bingjie , Brown Richard , Chhablani Jay , Pi Shaohua
Published: September 2023

Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) leads to the accumulation of subretinal fluid and retinal thickness change, which can be readily detected in clinics using optical coherence tomography (OCT). However, current quantification methods usually require sophisticated processing such as retinal layer segmentations, and volumetric visualization of structural changes is generally challenging, which can hinder fast and accurate assessment of disease progression and/or treatment efficacy. In this study, we developed an algorithm that can register the OCT scans acquired from different visits without requiring prior layer segmentation and calculated the three-dimensional (3-D) structural change maps for patients with CSCR. Our results demonstrate that this tool can be useful in monitoring the progression of CSCR and revealing the resolution of pathologies following treatment automatically with minimal pre-processing.
Opioids for acute and chronic pain when receiving psychiatric medications
Authors: Janakiram Chandrashekar , Okunev Ilya , Tranby Eric P. , Fontelo Paul , Iafolla Timothy J. , Dye Bruce A.
Published: September 2023

Background

People with mental health disorders (MHD) like depression and anxiety are more likely to experience substance use disorders (SUDs) than those without MHD. This study assesses opioid prescription patterns for acute or chronic pain management in patients receiving medication for depression and/or anxiety.

Methods and findings

Cross-sectional data trend analysis of 24.5 million adult medical claims was conducted using medical and pharmacy data (2012–2019) for adults aged 21–64 from the IBM Watson MarketScan Medicaid Multi-State Database. Information on sex, age, race, provider type, acute or chronic pain, and prescriptions for opioids and antidepressant and/or antianxiety medication from outpatient encounters were analyzed. For those receiving opioid prescriptions within 14 days of a pain diagnosis, ICD-10-CM codes were used to categorize diagnoses as chronic pain (back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and headache); or acute pain (dental-, ENT-, and orthopedic-related pain). Nearly 8 million adults had at least one prescription for antidepressant or antianxiety medications (MHD), with 2.5 million of those (32%) also diagnosed with an acute or chronic pain condition (pain + MHD). Among the pain + MHD group, 34% (0.85 million) received an opioid prescription within 14 days of diagnosis. Individuals with chronic pain diagnoses received a higher proportion of opioid prescriptions than those with acute pain. Among individuals with pain + MHD, the majority were aged 50–64 (35%), female (72%), and non-Hispanic white (65.1%). Nearly half (48.2%) of the opioid prescriptions given to adults with an MHD were provided by physicians. Compared to other physician types, Health Care Providers (HCPs) in emergency departments were 50% more likely to prescribe an opioid for dental pain to those with an MHD, whereas dentists were only half as likely to prescribe an opioid for dental pain management. Although overall opioid prescriptions for pain management declined from 2012 to 2019, adults with an MHD received opioids for pain management at nearly twice the level as adults without an MHD.

Conclusions

Although HCPs have reduced opioids for acute or chronic pain to patients at high-risk for SUD, for example, those with MHD, the use of opioids for pain management has remained at consistently higher levels for this SUD high-risk group, suggesting the need to revisit pain management guidelines for those receiving antidepressant or antianxiety drugs.
PROCESSO DE DESENVOLVIMENTO E GESTÃO DE MARCA-PAÍS: UM ESTUDO SOBRE A MARCA BRASIL
Authors: Giraldi Janaina de Moura Engracia , Castro Ricardo Martins de
Published: September 2023

O conceito de marca saiu do escopo do produto e passou a ser elemento importante para aumentar e garantir a vantagem competitiva internacional de países. Este trabalho tem como objetivo principal a análise do processo de desenvolvimento da “Marca Brasil”. Para isso, foi empregada uma pesquisa exploratória, com entrevistas semiestruturadas com indivíduos que fizeram parte da criação da Marca Brasil e que integram a Instituto Brasileiro de Turismo (EMBRATUR). Foram comparados os passos do desenvolvimento de marca de países verificados na teoria com aqueles seguidos pela EMBRATUR na criação da Marca Brasil. Adicionalmente, os acertos e as falhas neste processo de desenvolvimento da marca foram destacados. Como resultado final, verificou-se que o Brasil seguiu parcialmente os principais passos referentes ao desenvolvimento de marca-país. Críticas e sugestões ao processo de construção de marca foram feitas, a fim de contribuir para o melhoramento da marca, servindo de base para o governo brasileiro melhorar suas estratégias de comunicação da marca, para empresas que pretendem utilizar a marca em seus processos de exportação, e também para futuros trabalhos sobre o tema, carente de avaliações sobre o processo de construção de marca de países.
Combining effectuation and causation approaches in entrepreneurship: A 20+ years review
Authors: Kogut Clarice Secches , Mello Renato Dourado Cotta de , Skorupski Robert
Published: September 2023

Objective of the study: This paper gathers, and reviews published empirical or theoretical articles in which the entrepreneurial logics of causation and effectuation, coined by Sarasvathy in 2001, are discussed to answer the research question of “Under what circumstances do firms combine effectuation with causation?”. Methodology/approach: The research is based on a systematic literature review of top-tier journals over a 20-year period. Main results: Findings suggest causation and effectuation logics can be applied simultaneously or in sequence, depending on factors at the micro (the entrepreneur), meso (the firm), and macro levels (business context—institutional and situational). Theoretical/methodological contributions: It delivers a compiled, synthesized, and contrasted set of past work for future researchers to build upon and a preliminary conceptual matrix for further testing and refinement, not to mention an in-depth discussion at the micro, meso and macro level. Relevance/originality: Over 20 years after Sarasvathy’s seminal work, most literature investigating decision-making still focuses on contrasting the logics of causation or effectuation, not fully understanding the conditions under which each prevails or when they are combined. Social/management contributions: At the micro level, this research can help entrepreneurs better understand their profile and the benefits of considering both logics throughout their decision-making process. At the meso level, companies can benefit from understanding how logics relate at each life stage. Finally, at the macro level, policymakers and educators can help entrepreneurs navigate uncertain and turbulent environments if different logics and circumstances are more broadly acknowledged.
Rare Case of Pediatric Post-transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder Presenting With Pleural Masses Complicated by Pleural Effusions
Authors: Nessim Kostandy Erini , Wan David , Imseis Essam
Published: September 2023

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder is a complication in organ transplant recipients characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of B-lymphocytes, occurring in 6% of pediatric patients, with risk factors including primary Epstein-Barr virus infection, intensity of immunosuppression, and cytomegalovirus infection. The clinical symptoms are often nonspecific, and it is associated with a high mortality rate if left untreated. We describe a rare case of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder who presented with pleural-based masses resulting in pleural effusions.
Rettende Umweltphilosophie
Authors: Manemann Jürgen
Published: September 2023

Die ökologische und klimatische Katastrophe gefährdet die Grundfesten unserer planetaren Existenzbedingungen. Angesichts der dadurch verursachten Zerstörungen plädiert Jürgen Manemann für eine rettende Umweltphilosophie. Diese erschüttert die Kaltstellungen des wissenschaftlich-technischen Zugriffs auf Natur durch die Konfrontation mit Andersheit und Anderheit in Natur. Rettende Umweltphilosophie zielt auf ein (Zusammen-)Leben, das alle Menschen, Tiere, Pflanzen, Arten, Berge, Flüsse, Ökosysteme und die Erde als Teil der Moralgemeinschaft umfasst. Indem sie sich engagierend und aktivierend um die Handlungsfähigkeit der Menschen sorgt, begründet sie eine Pflicht zum Aktivismus. Rettende Umweltphilosophie schärft den Blick für Utopisches und lässt Neues im Kaputten und in Zwischenräumen aufblitzen.
Exploring the relationship between total vertical jump load and block performance in elite volleyball players: Position-specific analysis
Authors: İşgüzar Mehmet Görkem , Keskin Kadir , Tokat Fatma , Uslu Serdar
Published: September 2023

Aim: The study aimed to examine the relationship between total load jumps and negative block performance of elite male volleyball players. Method: During the research, 18 elite volleyball athletes were monitored, composed of 7 middle players, 8 spikers, and 3 opposite players. The total vertical jump and block performance of volleyball players were assessed during 23 demo matches completed in routine training sessions. The tracking of vertical jump count was facilitated by employing a vert belt, while the assessment of block performance relied on the application of Data Volley 4 Pro software. The statistical analysis of the data was conducted using the SPSS 22.0 package program for Windows. The Spearman correlation test was applied to assess the relationship between jump load and block performance. Results: A negative, weak, and significant relationship was found between vertical jump load and ineffective block (r=-,206; p<0,05) and a weak but insignificant relationship for block error (r=,100; p>0,05) for middle players. A positive, insignificant relationship was found between vertical jump load and block error (r=,007; p>0,05), and a negative, insignificant, for the ineffective block (r=-,079; p>0,05) for spikers. A positive, insignificant relationship between total jump load and ineffective block (r=,054; p>0,05), and block error (r=,027; p>0,05). Conclusion: Across all players, the findings suggest that the total jump load is not significantly related to either block errors or ineffective blocks. The positive correlations observed between jump load and both block errors and ineffective blocks are not statistically significant for the entire group.