bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Who Are the ‘Masters of the Treaty’?: European Governments and the European Court of Justice (1998)
Authors: Alter Karen J
Published: November 2023

Few contest that the European Court of Justice (ECJ) is an unusually influential international court. The Court can declare illegal European Union (EU) laws and national laws that violate the Treaty of Rome in areas traditionally considered to be purely the prerogative of national governments, including social policy, gender equality, industrial relations, and competition policy; and its decisions are respected. Nevertheless, there is significant disagreement about the extent of the Court’s political autonomy from member states and the extent to which it can decide cases against their interests.
The European Union’s Legal System and Domestic Policy: Spillover or Backlash? (2000)
Authors: Alter Karen J
Published: November 2023

The legal system of the European Union (EU) offers domestic actors a powerful tool to influence national policy. European law can be drawn on by private litigants in national courts to challenge national policies. These challenges can be sent by national judges to the European Court of Justice (ECJ), which instructs national courts to apply European law instead of national law, or to interpret national law in a way compatible with European law. Combining victories in front of the ECJ with political mobilization and pressure, litigants and groups have used the European legal system to force their governments to change national policies.
Banana Splits: Nested and Overlapping Regimes in the Transatlantic Banana Trade Dispute (2006)
Authors: Alter Karen J
Published: November 2023

Advanced industrial democracies belong to a plethora of international institutions. Either individually or collectively, they are members of universal organizations (UN agencies), regional blocs (e.g. the European Union (EU), the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)), and issue-specific institutions (e.g. the World Trade Organization (WTO), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the World Health Organization (WHO)). These international institutions can be nested within each other or overlap with each other, sometimes leading to conflicting commitments for their member states. How do the nesting and overlapping of international institutions complicate the strategies of national decision-makers? Does the nested/overlapping nature of international commitments in itself generate a distinct kind of politics?
The Business Model For Manufacturers’ Brands
Authors: Bell Dick
Published: November 2023

Brands are unique products, differentiated from their competitors and thus not directly substitutable. Brands, through marketing, appeal directly to the consumer or purchaser and thus reach over the retail trade. The process of marketing, involving product development, advertising, and distribution, results in manufacturers’ brands incurring a high level of non-variable cost. A consequence is that brand profit rises disproportionately to an increase in sales value and similarly falls by a greater percentage following a reduction in sales. The development of manufacturers’ brands was in its heyday when the process of retail distribution was atomistic. Today, in the early 21st century, there is an oligopolistic structure of retailing where each chain positions itself as a retail brand and a champion of the consumer. In most countries of Europe, grocery retailing is dominated by four or five chains, and a clash of the titans now exists between large retailers such as Tesco, Carrefour, and Rewe, and multinational manufacturers such as Unilever, Nestlé, and Proctor and Gamble. Distribution of manufacturers’ brands is no longer determined solely by an eager sales force, nor by high levels of consumer sale. Retail selling space is controlled with military precision by large retailers using category management techniques. The large retail chain offers alternatives to the manufacturers’ brands in the form of their private label products and can refuse to stock, or de-list, components of the manufacturers’ brands. Sudden changes in the range stocked by an oligopolistic retailer, particularly when unforeseen, can significantly affect the sales and consequentially the profit, of the brand of a manufacturer.
Private Labels and Branded Goods: Consumers’ ‘Horrors’ and ‘Heroes’
Authors: Dobson Paul W , Chakraborty* Ratula
Published: November 2023

Private label and manufacturer branded goods compete for shelf space and the attentions of consumers. They may have much in common but they can have very different impacts on supplier and retailer competition and ultimately on consumer welfare. This chapter considers the different sides to private labels and branded goods, examining how each type can affect competition in a positive or harmful way. From the consumer’s perspective, the exercise of market power may stifle competition and restrict consumer choice. Different types of brand or private label ‘horrors’ are considered, where the respective market power of brand producers and retailers can be used in a way that is detrimental to competition and consumer welfare. Equally, though, branded goods and private labels can have a countervailing capacity to stem or neutralize market power and enrich choice with new, innovative products, such that each in their own way have the ability to extend and encourage greater competition and thereby offer important consumer benefits. The chapter considers how and when these goods support effective competition, illustrating the different types of brand and private label ‘heroes’ that can promote competition and choice to the benefit of consumers. The chapter closes by considering the shape of future competition in light of relentlessly increasing retail concentration and the growing power of large retailers, with possible implications for consumer sovereignty.
Retailer and Private Labels: Asymmetry of Information, In-Store Competition and the Control of Shelf Space
Authors: Kuipers* Pieter
Published: November 2023

Until a couple of decades ago the grocery retailer’s primary business was to be the intermediary between branded firms and consumers in a market where competition in fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) essentially occurred between branded manufacturers. Their other key role was (and still is) the distribution of goods from their central depots to all their shops. However, large-scale retailing has moved beyond this traditional role of making branded manufacturers and consumers meet. Retailers increasingly come into direct competition with their suppliers when stocking own-label products. These products (also referred to as private labels (PLs)) are in fact fast becoming the largest in-store competitor. The PL is often the number-two, or even the number-one product in a category. PL shares of 50 per cent or higher are not unusual and on the increase. In a number of product categories in some countries the PL is often without any competitor inside many stores.
Retail Consolidation: The Implications of Mergers And Buying Alliances
Authors: Ratliff* John
Published: November 2023

The object of this paper is to outline the typical considerations which competition regulators have in relation to mergers (and acquisitions) and buying alliances in the retail sector. The author’s principal reference is EC Competition law, although reference is also made to UK competition law. Private label is part of those typical considerations, but not usually the central one. The perspective offered is that of a legal practitioner, who is necessarily led to look at both sides. The aim here is, as far as possible, to set out the main principles based on experience, rather than offering a detailed survey of the case law or the very extensive literature on such issues. The plan of this chapter is to deal first with mergers (Section B), then buying alliances (Section C), then comment on consolidation of these two aspects (Section D). The most recurrent themes in the author’s view are then highlighted (Section E), with finally some conclusions (Section F).
Nightlife and Crime in International Perspective
Authors: Hadfield Phil
Published: November 2023

It’s a balmy summer night and I’m on my way home from the pub as I catch a snippet of hope and lament, ‘forget about him, you can do better’. Just ahead of me, two girls in their early twenties are stumbling arm-in-arm along the pavement. As the distance between us shortens, the legs of one of the pair buckle and she falls momentarily to the ground only to regain stance and momentum with the Nightlife. What sort of life is it?—a life-affirming field of dreams, or a cathartic field of sorrows? The chapters in this collection allow us to see that it can be either, and more importantly both, in the space of one single night. Yet, the problem with naming a book ‘Nightlife and Crime’ is that things immediately get dark, when in fact, nightlife is mostly full of light, with darkness only inhabiting its periphery. Nightlife is often associated with celebration, festival, and community gatherings, so let’s not get too serious just yet; nightlife isn’t. What nightlife is for most who partake of it, is a minor, ostensibly frivolous, punctuation of daily routines—a release of pressure; the froth on life’s cappuccino.
England and Wales
Authors: Hadfield Phil , Measham Fiona
Published: November 2023

In England and Wales, certain forms of violent crime, criminal damage, and antisocial behaviour have long been concentrated in and around nightlife areas. This may be regarded as a by-product of the intensity of leisure activity in these particular times and spaces, as well as the youthful socio-demographic composition of the nightlife population. It is also a corollary of the forms of commercial leisure one finds there, with much of this leisure activity dominated by the sale and consumption of alcohol.
scotland
Authors: Elvins Martin
Published: November 2023

The quote above from Kenny MacAskill is taken from an interview published in The Guardian newspaper, 14 May His forceful words encapsulate a number of important points about the contemporary debate regarding alcohol in Scotland. First and foremost, it contains the implication that a strong cultural dimension shapes attitudes and perceptions regarding alcohol within Scottish society. Second, by referring to ‘our high streets’ the minister locates the debate firmly in relation to ownership of public space and negative associations concerning alcohol use in public.
The Netherlands
Authors: Calster Patrick Van , van der Leun Joanne , Hasselt Ninette van
Published: November 2023

Recent attempts to transform Amsterdam’s red-light district into a more ‘respectable’ area were dubbed ‘Amsterdam’s war on sex’ in Newsweek. The question was raised: ‘Amsterdam without the red-light district? Wouldn’t that be like Paris without the Eiffel Tower! ?’ A similar question can be raised about cannabis coffee shops. Over the past decade the number of coffee shops has decreased considerably and regulation of those that remain has become more stringent. Without doubt, Amsterdam’s nightlife is changing. Most inhabitants of Amsterdam do not consider coffee shops and the redlight district as typical nightlife settings. Tourists, however, do.
Spain
Authors: Basanta Anabel Rodrã-guez
Published: November 2023

This chapter will describe how changing patterns of alcohol consumption have been a major aspect of this transition and the bedrock of a new leisure economy. Spanish drinking practices have come closer to the models more typically seen among the cultures of northern Europe, the aim being to obtain the desired state of festive euphoria through rapid intoxication. The considerable increase in nightlife options has been similarly accompanied by a popularization of the recreational consumption of narcotic substances. Over recent years, ‘partying’ holidays in the sun have become the focus for young foreign visitors to an unprecedented degree, thanks to the emergence of low-cost airlines and package tourism.
Greece
Authors: Vidali Sophie
Published: November 2023

Stereotypical representations of nightlife in Greece frame this social realm within the discourses of entertainment and leisure and it is rare to encounter discussions of associated criminality, incivilities, or the fear of crime. Up until the late’s, the social history of Greek nightlife was, however, littered with accounts of deviance and petty criminality. Since then, the influence of criminal organizations in shaping social and economic relations within a free-market night-time economy (NTE) has been of primary importance. Despite these links, nightlife and entertainment do not represent core components of crime policy for the Greek authorities.
Nightlife Horizons Some Further Thoughts and Conclusions
Authors: Hadfield Phil
Published: November 2023

Canada and the Nordic countries (Finland and to a lesser extent Norway and Sweden) dominated some types of alcohol research as a result of the research organizations that flourished in those countries. On the other hand, there were few alcohol researchers in the UK, France, Italy, or Spain. Whilst a substantial amount of funding was available in the United States through the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), very little of this money was directed toward social problems such as violence in the NTE. In England and Wales, current levels of research activity concerning these social contextual, rather than strictly epidemiological problems, have emerged only within the last decade, chiefly as a result of Home Office prioritization. In no other nations, apart from Scotland and Australia, has the NTE received such sustained attention and the literature on governmental responses to nightlife has so far been limited to analyses of the conditions pertaining within specific nation states, with most work published in scholarly journals. This work has primarily focused on the UK.
Russian Law in Comparative Legal Studies
Authors: Butler William E
Published: November 2023

Russian law and the Russian legal system continue to seek an established place in the constellation of world legal systems. During the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries—the formative period of modern comparative law—Russia and her legal system were basically unknown and by default would have been grouped together with the legal systems of continental Europe. The dissolution of the former Soviet Union (1922–91) and its legal system (1917–91) and the re-emergence of the Russian State continue to offer another dimension to the debate among comparative lawyers generated by the 1917 Russian Revolutions. The Revolution of February 1917 brought an end to the Russian monarchy; the Revolution of October 1917 terminated the rule of the coalition Provisional Government that had replaced the monarchy. Soviet law claimed, on the basis of ideological axioms, to be unique among all existing and precedent legal systems. While most accepted that ‘law’ was a component of the Soviet public order, whatever its ultimate fate was postulated to be, it was this claim to uniqueness which challenged the established classifications of legal systems or families of legal systems.
The Pre-Revolutionary Heritage
Authors: Butler William E
Published: November 2023

The 1917 October Revolution proclaimed in the exuberance of its triumph a complete break with the Russian past. In 1918 there followed a formal repeal of Imperial legislation (although Soviet courts were allowed for some years to fill gaps in Soviet legislation by having recourse to pre-revolutionary legislation in certain circumstances). But law is not merely the statute book at any given moment of time; it represents an accumulation of experiences, values, terminology, attitudes constructed in the course of human affairs over many centuries, elements which the Revolution could not dispense with no matter how radical the policies it sought to introduce. Neither was the study of Russian legal history entirely abandoned, although it experienced periods of comparative neglect and, when revived, suffered from the superimposition of ideological constraints. The demise of the Soviet Union removed those constraints and invited legal scholars to return to the legacy of the past in order to find lessons and solutions for the future development of Russian law.
Securities Regulation
Authors: Butler William E
Published: November 2023

Russian law, following the Soviet law tradition, continues to be distinctive for a broad definition of what falls in the category of ‘securities’.1 The Russian Civil Code defines a security as a ‘document certifying, in compliance with the established form and obligatory prerequisites, property rights whose effectuation or transfer’ is possible only when presenting it (Article 142). Specifically singled out as ‘types’ of securities in the Civil Code are: State bond, bill of exchange, cheque, deposit and savings certificates, bank bearer savings book, bill of lading, stock, and privatization securities (Article 143). Laws on securities may designate other documents as securities or create a procedure for making such a determination. Notwithstanding the reference to a security as a ‘document’, the Russian Civil Code also recognized ‘paperless securities’ (Article 149). Of the types of security mentioned, stocks and bonds are the subject of the most extensive regulation, and we shall dwell on them in this chapter.
Criminal Law
Authors: Butler William E
Published: November 2023

The development of criminal law in the Russian Federation has been an expression of the democratization of post-Soviet Russia and of challenging policy choices between a more humanistic attitude towards criminal behaviour and the need to cope with increasing rates of criminality and an expansion of the role of organized crime and corruption. The Soviet Government inherited in October 1917 an Imperial Russian Criminal Code of 1903 that technically speaking was among the most advanced in Europe. That Imperial Code was not immediately repealed by the Soviet authorities. Rather, the local courts were directed to decide ‘cases in the name of the Russian Republic and be guided in their decisions and judgments by laws of the overthrown governments only insofar as these have not been repealed by the revolution and are not contrary to the revolutionary conscience and revolutionary.
The Case of Uganda
Authors: Development Bank African
Published: November 2023

Uganda started having external debt problems in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when the government embarked on large-scale borrow- ing programs while the country ‘s terms of trade were deteriorating, limiting the availability of foreign exchange. At the same time, the government was printing money to finance its fiscal deficit, thus generating high domestic inflation. By the beginning of the 1990s, Uganda ‘s debt burden had reached unmanageable levels. The gov- ernment could no longer afford to service its debt repayments and began defaulting on its obligations. In a bid to resolve Uganda ‘s debt problems, the World Bank organ- ised a commercial debt buy-back of all commercial loans in 1992/93. At the same time, Uganda also received relief on its bilateral Paris Club debts through traditional debt relief mechanisms. However, these relief initiatives were not sufficient to ease Uganda ‘s debt over- hang because the bulk of the debts were owed to multilateral institu- tions (such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the African Development Bank/Fund). By 1994/95, Uganda could not afford to service its multilateral debts and appealed to international donors for support. This resulted in the establishment of a Multilat- eral Debt Fund (MDF), which mobilised funds from some of Uganda ‘s bilateral donors to service its debt to multilateral creditors, mainly the World Bank and the African Development Bank. The MDF was a precursor to the HIPC Initiative, which aimed to find a sustainable solution to multilateral debt problems.
Free and Fair Elections
Authors: Ghebali Victor-Yves
Published: November 2023

The concept of free and fair elections was developed in the wake of decolonization. It seems to have been used first in a 1956 UN report devoted to Togo’s independence from colonial rule (Ebersole, 1992: 94). However, the term still has no internationally accepted definition for the simple reason that universal and regional organizations, as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs), use the adjectives ‘free’ and ‘fair’ as synonymous with ‘honest’, ‘genuine’, ‘impartial’, ‘sincere’, ‘democratic’, or ‘transparent’. In fact, the notion of freedom is related to participation and choice, while fairness aims at equal participation in the poll, impartiality, and non-discrimination (Goodwin-Gill, 2006: 73). Indeed, elections may be considered as ‘free’ if they take place in the absence of any significant pressure, intimidation, or violence against voters; they can be labelled ‘fair’ when all candidates are treated in a non-discriminatory manner (Elklit & Svensson, 1997: 33–5).
Responsibility to Protect
Authors: Warner Daniel , Giacca Gilles
Published: November 2023

The concept of the responsibility to protect is a key element in any discussion of crises that entail massive violations of human rights. It is essential in the overall theme of human security because, rather than letting individual states be solely responsible for the well-being of their populations, the responsibility to protect introduces the notion that outsiders may be involved in protecting individuals or groups when a state fails, or is unwilling, to protect its population.
State-building
Authors: Daoudy Marwa
Published: November 2023

The emergence of the modern state goes back inter alia to the peace treaties of Westphalia in 1648. The treaties introduced the notion of a sovereign entity set up within a defined territory and in which both the population and the territory are under the control of non-religious political authorities. Mutual recognition validates the sovereignty of such entities. However, scholars continue to disagree about the factors that caused the emergence of the modern state between the 16th and 17th centuries. Milliken and Krause articulate five centuries of history around the three main functions of the modern state, according to their ideological standpoint: security, thanks to a social contract appropriating the means of violence; legitimacy, resulting from the representation of a state’s identity; and growing wealth, fostered by modern capitalism and imperialism (2002: 755–62). These authors point to the various paradoxes underpinning research into the crisis of the modern state. To use the expression coined by Tilly: ‘States make war and war makes states’ (1985: 170).
Transitional Justice
Authors: Rosa Anne-Marie La , Philippe Xavier
Published: November 2023

The modern concept of transitional justice was first employed at the end of World War II, albeit without official endorsement, when there were concerted efforts to rebuild Europe and to achieve sustainable peace. In fact, one of the first times the international community coordinated its work to bring to trial persons who had committed international crimes was in its establishment of’ denazification’ programmes in Germany. Historically, then, transitional justice was first associated with periods following interstate conflicts but, at the end of the 1980s it was broadened to encompass the setting up of new ‘democratic’ regimes after periods of unrest, whether the unrest was due to non-international armed conflicts, internal strife, or the transition from an authoritarian/totalitarian regime to democracy.
Principles to Follow
Authors: Dixon R M W
Published: November 2023

Writing up a grammar for publication is a quite different matter from analysing the data and gradually building up a full understanding of the language. The way in which the grammar is organized should not (except coincidentally) reflect the way in which the linguist worked and the order in which analytic decisions were reached.
Terminology
Authors: Dixon R M W
Published: November 2023

It is useful to gather together explanations of a number of important terms. Some have been introduced above and are recapitulated here. Some will be explained more fully in chapters which follow. Others receive their major—or only—discussion in this chapter.
Field Linguistics
Authors: Dixon R M W
Published: November 2023

Fieldwork is the most important and most exciting part of linguistics. But there are many misconceptions concerning what it is and how to do it. This is a short introduction, based on my experience of fieldwork in Australia, Fiji, and Brazil (commencing in 1963 and extending until today), providing a personal view of the discipline. (§2.1, ‘Writing a grammar’, could well be reread at the end of this chapter.)
Relative Clause Constructions
Authors: Dixon R M W
Published: November 2023

There are three recurrent patterns for the ways in which clauses may be combined. These can be illustrated from English:[The boy]a ate [the mango]o, after Is leftIa know [that [the boy]a ate [the mango]o]complement.clause:o Ia know [the boy [whoa ate [the mango]o]relative.clause]o Sentence (1) illustrates the linking of two clauses, neither of which is contained within the other: Sentences (2) and (3) both involve ‘embedding’, where one clause is included within another; but these are embeddings of quite different kinds.
Myotonic Dystrophy
Authors: Harper Peter S
Published: November 2023

Myotonic dystrophy is part of the group of muscular dystrophies. It is the commonest inherited muscular dystrophy and has a profound effect on individuals who are diagnosed with the disease and their families. It is present for many decades of a patient's life but, unlike the other dystrophies, it also affects the organs in the body, making this a very distinctive disorder, and a very troubling one for those close to it. When the first edition of Myotonic Dystropy: The Facts published in 2002, it was widely appreciated by families, support groups, professionals and reviewers for its simple and clear approach to key practical questions. This new edition retains the same successful structure, but now includes new material on the recognition of the distinct 'type 2 myotonic dystrophy', which had only just been identified at the time of the first edition. Further explanation of the advances in basic understanding of myotonic dystrophy, and additional coverage of the new approaches to therapy and management of the condition are also included, as well as comprehensive discussion of the recent on-going worldwide research. New to this edition are 'Key Facts' at the beginning of each chapter, 'frequently asked question' boxes, and up-to-date contact details for worldwide myotonic dystrophy support groups.
All a-BORG! The Dangerous Drinking Trend Steamrolling Across Social Media and College Campuses
Authors: Pratt Nicholas , Madhavan Ricky , Weigle Paul , Weleff Jeremy
Published: November 2023

Black out rage gallons (BORGs) are a troublesome drinking pattern emerging on social media platforms. The prevalence of BORGs has been increasing on college campuses and is demonstrating significant consequences. There is no known research on BORGs in addiction treatment settings. We suggest that future research will be necessary to understand their implication. Troublesome binge drinking is not a new problem among colleges. However, social media has seemed to ignite such trends.
Too Much of a Good Thing: The Association of Elevated Vitamin B12 Levels and Outcomes in Patients With Cancer Treated With Immunotherapy
Authors: Turgeman Ilit , Benaim Anat Reiner , Regev-Tsur Stav , Turgeman Shahar , Abu Amna Mahmud , Badran Omar , Bar-Sela Gil
Published: November 2023

Metabolic pathways may regulate responses to cancer immunotherapy (IO). Due to its immunomodulatory properties, we sought to examine the association between serum vitamin B12 (VitB12) and survival in individuals with cancer treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, compared with biological and chemotherapy. We collected data on patients with advanced cancer initiating intravenous antineoplastic treatment and a concomitant VitB12 measurement (elevated: >820 ng/L), between January 2010 and January 2022. Patients on IO and other regimens (control) were compared using the Mann-Whitney test for continuous variables, χ2 test or Fisher test for categorical variables, and multivariate Cox regression models assessed the effect of VitB12 on overall survival and progression-free survival, adjusting for confounders. Patient groups (control: n = 408; IO: n = 93) were balanced for the treatment line and VitB12 (elevated 29.9% vs 23.7%; mean 762.4 vs 687.6 ng/L). In multivariate analysis, overall survival in all patients was negatively associated with VitB12 [control: hazard ratio (HR): 1.4, 95% CI: 1.01–1.96, P = 0.04, false discovery rate (FDR): 0.069; IO: HR: 2.74 as sum of linear baseline and interaction effects, log scale], age (HR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.02–1.04, P < 0.01), male sex (HR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.50–0.88, P < 0.01), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (HR: 1.05, 95% CI: 0.48–0.99, P = 0.01). However, VitB12 was significantly negatively associated with progression-free survival only in the IO group (P < 0.001, FDR < 0.001, calculated HR: 8.34; biological treatment P = 0.08; FDR: 0.111; neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, P = 0.07; FDR: 0.09). Taken together, elevated VitB12 was a negative predictor for outcomes on IO, independently of other known prognostic factors. Further research is needed to elucidate the immune-metabolic interplay and its interaction with the gut microbiome, as well as interventional strategies to enhance IO responses.
Medication Abortion: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Fleurant Erin , McCloskey Leanne
Published: November 2023

This chapter provides an overview of evidence-based guidelines for medication abortion in the first trimester. We discuss regimens, both FDA-approved and other clinical-based protocols, and will briefly discuss novel self-managed abortion techniques taking place outside the formal health care system. Overview of patient counseling and pain management are presented with care to include guidance on “no touch” regimens that have proven both feasible and effective. We hope that this comprehensive review helps the health care community make strides to increase access to abortion in a time when reproductive health care is continuously restricted.
Fetal Growth and Antenatal Testing in Uncomplicated Multiple Gestations
Authors: Shea Sarah K. , Newman Roger B.
Published: November 2023

Multiple gestations experience a slowing of fetal growth in the third trimester and have been described as having a higher risk of growth restriction. Whether this increased diagnosis of fetal growth restriction is physiological or pathologic is controversial. In an attempt to better identify those fetuses most at risk, twin-specific growth charts have been developed and tested. In addition, there are data to suggest that multiple gestations experience an increased risk of unexpected third-trimester stillbirth in apparently uncomplicated pregnancies. This chapter reviews the current data and recommendations for fetal growth assessment, antenatal surveillance, and delivery timing in uncomplicated multiple gestations.
Managing Monoamniotic Twin Pregnancies
Authors: Post Annalisa L.
Published: November 2023

Monoamniotic twins comprise a rare subset of twins at risk of unique and serious complications. In addition to the risks faced by all twins (premature birth, growth restriction), all monochorionic twins (twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome), and all monozygotic twins (congenital anomalies), monoamniotic twins face the unique risk of cord entanglement, in addition to a markedly increased risk of congenital anomalies. Early diagnosis, screening for fetal anomalies and surveillance for twin-twin transfusion syndrome are critical. After fetal viability, frequent fetal monitoring reduces the risk of intrauterine fetal demise.
Twin Gestation With Spontaneous Reduction To Singleton
Authors: Sondgeroth Kristina E.
Published: November 2023

Twin gestations are at increased risk of single intrauterine fetal death. A first-trimester loss is a common complication in twin gestations. The rate of co-twin morbidity and mortality is higher when a single demise occurs in the second and third trimesters. Monochorionicity strongly influences the prognosis for the surviving co-twin. Fetal ultrasound combined with MRI may be able to help predict neurological injury to the surviving co-twin. The rate of co-twin demise decreases with advancing gestation. After single intrauterine fetal demise, monochorionic gestations should be delivered by 34 weeks and dichorionic by 36 to 37 weeks gestation.
Screening and Prevention of Preterm Birth in Twin Pregnancies
Authors: Roman Amanda
Published: November 2023

Twins represent 3.2% of all live births. However, they account for 20% of all preterm deliveries, 60% delivering <37 weeks, 10.7% <32 weeks, and 5 times higher risk of infant death. Risk factors for preterm birth (PTB) include the history of preterm delivery, monochorionic twins, short cervical length, and cervical surgery. Transvaginal cervical length <24 weeks is the best tool to predict PTB. Only vaginal progesterone in women with transvaginal cervical length <25 mm and physical exam indicated cerclage in women with cervical dilation >1 cm have shown a significant decrease in PTB and improvement in neonatal outcomes.
Endophtalmitis associated with flange exposure after a 4-flanged canabrava fixation techique
Authors: Roditi Eduardo , Brosh Koby , Assayag Elishai , Weill Yishay , Zadok David
Published: November 2023

A 101-year-old woman who underwent 4-flanged intrascleral fixation intraocular lens (ISF IOL) technique surgery in her left eye (elsewhere) 6 months prior to her presentation, was referred to our department due to pain and loss of vision for the previous 4 days. The patient presented with left eye visual acuity of hand motion, conjunctival hyperemia, hypopyon, vitritis, and 2 polypropylene flanges exposed throughout the conjunctiva. Endophthalmitis was diagnosed followed by urgent treatment with vitreous and anterior chamber tap, and intravitreal injections of antibiotics and steroids. Cultures revealed Streptococci viridans infection. No further surgical intervention was performed due to patient opposition. The infection resolved within a few weeks; however, phthisis bulbi developed subsequently. ISF IOL with 4 polypropylene flanges has gained popularity. A rare complication of flange extrusion might lead to endophthalmitis. Studies evaluating short- and long-term complications of this technique are warranted.
Positive dysphotopsia after implantation of an EDOF intraocular lens
Authors: Wanten Joukje C. , Bauer Noël J.C. , Nuijts Rudy M.M.A.
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

This report describes a case of positive dysphotopsia (PD) after refractive lens exchange (RLE) with implantation of an extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) intraocular lens (IOL).

Patient and Clinical Findings:

A healthy 48-year-old man underwent RLE with bilateral implantation of a nontoric EDOF IOL and suffered from monocular triplopia in both eyes. The visual acuity was suboptimal with an uncorrected distance visual acuity of 20/25 in the right eye and 20/30 in the left eye.

Diagnosis, Intervention and Outcomes:

Slitlamp examination showed well-centered implanted IOLs, without capsular distension syndrome. Bilateral IOL exchange was performed with an aspheric monofocal IOL with a 7.0 mm optic diameter, which diminished the PD complaints.

Conclusions:

This case report describes disturbing PD after bilateral implantation of an EDOF IOL. Exchange of these EDOF IOLs with a larger optical diameter monofocal IOL resulted in resolution of symptoms.
Effect of Cigarette Smoking on Clozapine Dose and on Plasma Clozapine and N-Desmethylclozapine (Norclozapine) Concentrations in Clinical Practice
Authors: Flanagan Robert James , Hunter Samora , Obee Stephen John
Published: November 2023

Background

Cigarette smoking enhances plasma clozapine clearance and thus affects the clozapine dose requirement.

Methods

We compared clozapine daily dose and plasma clozapine and N-desmethylclozapine (norclozapine) concentrations in male and female smokers and nonsmokers in samples submitted for clozapine therapeutic drug monitoring (1996–2017).

Results

There were 105,316/60,792 and 34,290/31,309 samples with dose information from male and female smokers/nonsmokers, respectively. There was information on the number of cigarettes smoked daily for 12,842 samples (8409 patients) and 3948 samples (2753 patients) from men and women, respectively. Of these, 574 and 253 samples were from men and women, respectively, who reported smoking 1–9 cigarettes daily.

In both sexes, the median clozapine doses in the nonsmokers were 75%–80% of those in the smokers, but the median plasma clozapine and norclozapine concentrations were 136% higher. The effect of smoking on the dose and on median plasma clozapine and norclozapine concentrations seemed maximal after 2–3, perhaps fewer, cigarettes daily in males. In females, the effect of smoking seemed to be near maximal after some 4–5 cigarettes per day.

Implications

The optimum target range for predose plasma clozapine may be different in smokers (0.35–0.45 mg L−1) as opposed to nonsmokers (0.50–0.60 mg L−1). That changes in clozapine clearance are likely near maximal with cigarette smoking as low as 2–3 d−1 in males, perhaps slightly more in females, emphasizes that covert or passive smoking may be an important factor in seemingly random changes in plasma clozapine concentration at constant dose.
Gender perspective in psoriasis: a scoping review and proposal of strategies for improved clinical practice by European dermatologists
Authors: Gonzalez-Cantero Alvaro , Constantin María Magdalena , Dattola Annunziata , Hillary Tom , Kleyn Elise , Magnolo Nina
Published: November 2023

Background:

The prevalence of psoriasis is similar between men and women; however, evidence exists of sex- and gender-related differences in disease expression, impact, coping, and needs of patients with psoriasis. These differences are essential and should be considered in clinical practice and research.

Objective:

To compile available evidence on sex- and gender-related differences in psoriasis, identify the most critical gaps in clinical practice and research, and use it to propose strategies for improved clinical practice.

Methods:

Six European dermatologists selected the topics to consider according to their relevance in the dermatology setting with the support of methodologists. Evidence on sex- and gender-related differences was obtained by a scoping review based on search strategies in Medline and Cochrane Library from inception to October 2021 using the following terms: arthritis, psoriatic, psoriasis, gender, and sex. The panel discussed the results and proposed strategies by consensus.

Results:

The scoping review identified broad themes: (1) clinical expression, (2) severity and patient-reported outcomes, (3) psychosocial impact, (4) access to treatments and propensity to treat, (5) comorbidities, and (6) treatment effect. The strategies are based on these broad themes.

Limitations:

No risk of bias assessment was done due to the scoping nature of the review.

Conclusion:

This review offers insights into gender differences in psoriasis, providing a foundation for improving clinical practice and patient outcomes.
Predicting Survival of End-Stage Heart Failure Patients Receiving HeartMate-3: Comparing Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Loyaga-Rendon Renzo Y. , Acharya Deepak , Jani Milena , Lee Sangjin , Trachtenberg Barry , Manandhar-Shrestha Nabin , Leacche Marzia , Jovinge Stefan
Published: November 2023

HeartMate 3 is the only durable left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) currently implanted in the United States. The purpose of this study was to develop a predictive model for 1 year mortality of HeartMate 3 implanted patients, comparing standard statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms. Adult patients registered in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (STS-INTERMACS) database, who received primary implant with a HeartMate 3 between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019, were included. Epidemiological, clinical, hemodynamic, and echocardiographic characteristics were analyzed. Standard logistic regression and machine learning (elastic net and neural network) were used to predict 1 year survival. A total of 3,853 patients were included. Of these, 493 (12.8%) died within 1 year after implantation. Standard logistic regression identified age, Model End Stage Liver Disease (MELD)-XI score, right arterial (RA) pressure, INTERMACS profile, heart rate, and etiology of heart failure (HF), as important predictor factors for 1 year mortality with an area under the curve (AUC): 0.72 (0.66–0.77). This predictive model was noninferior to the ones developed using the elastic net or neural network. Standard statistical techniques were noninferior to neural networks and elastic net in predicting 1 year survival after HeartMate 3 implantation. The benefit of using machine-learning algorithms in the prediction of outcomes may depend on the type of dataset used for analysis.
Climate crisis and nephrology: a review of climate change's impact on nephrology and how to combat it
Authors: Dupuis Leonie , Varshney Aarushi , Patel Jason , Joshi Shivam
Published: November 2023

Climate change is worsening with tangible effects on our healthcare system. This review aims to examine the repercussions of the climate change on nephrology and explore potential strategies to mitigate its impact. This review examines dialysis's environmental impact, resource recycling methods, and plant-based diets for kidney health. Recent research highlights the advantages of plant-based diets in managing and preventing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its complications. Integrating these practices can significantly lessen the environmental impact of nephrology.

Purpose of review

The aim of this study is to discuss the bidirectional relationship of climate change and kidney disease and the impact of nephrology on climate change and to discuss potential solutions.

Recent findings

Each dialysis session consumes significant amounts of resource; reusing them will aid the environment. Plant-based diets slow renal disease and have a lower carbon footprint, making them ecologically friendly.

Climate change is a growing threat to population health and healthcare. Rising temperatures raise the risk of kidney problems. Dialysis treatments also impact the environment through its high resource requirements while generating high volumes of waste and greenhouse gases. Opportunities exist to reduce the environmental impact of dialysis treatments. Plant-based diets serve to benefit both kidney disease and the environment.
Advancements in the treatment of geographic atrophy: focus on pegcetacoplan in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Nadeem Abdullah , Malik Inshal A. , Shariq Fariha , Afridi Eesha K. , Taha Muhammad , Raufi Nahid , Naveed Ahmed K. , Iqbal Javed , Habte Alexander
Published: November 2023

Geographic atrophy (GA) is a progressive form of age-related macular degeneration characterized by the degeneration of retinal pigment epithelial cells and photoreceptor death. The dysregulation of the complement cascade has been implicated in GA progression. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology of age-related macular degeneration and GA, discusses current therapeutic options, and focuses on the recent breakthrough drug, pegcetacoplan (SYFOVRE). Pegcetacoplan is a complement inhibitor that selectively targets the C3 complement protein, effectively modulating complement activation. Clinical trials, including the OAKS and DERBY studies, have demonstrated the efficacy of SYFOVRE in reducing the growth of GA lesions compared to placebo. The FDA approval of SYFOVRE as the first and only definitive therapy for GA marks a significant milestone in the management of this debilitating condition. The review also explores potential future treatment strategies, including immune-modulating agents and ocular gene therapy. While SYFOVRE offers new hope for GA patients, further research is needed to evaluate its long-term benefits, safety profile, and optimal treatment regimens.
Recent advances in bariatric surgery: a narrative review of weight loss procedures
Authors: Aderinto Nicholas , Olatunji Gbolahan , Kokori Emmanuel , Olaniyi Peter , Isarinade Timilehin , Yusuf Ismaila Ajayi
Published: November 2023

Bariatric surgery has emerged as a highly effective option for individuals with obesity, offering significant and sustainable weight loss outcomes. This surgical approach involves various procedures that alter the anatomy of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to reduced food intake and nutrient absorption. Established procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, adjustable gastric banding, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch have proven track records. In contrast, emerging options like intragastric balloons, AspireAssist devices, and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty show promise but require further investigation. Numerous studies have highlighted the remarkable benefits of bariatric surgery, not only in weight loss but also in the resolution of obesity-related comorbidities and significant improvements in quality of life. However, successful outcomes rely on a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing preoperative evaluation, patient selection, comprehensive postoperative care, nutritional support, and psychological counseling. Regular follow-up and adherence to postsurgical recommendations are crucial for sustained weight loss and positive long-term results. As bariatric surgery continues to evolve, tailored procedures based on individual needs and ongoing research hold the potential for even more refined and effective approaches. Through this ongoing advancement, bariatric surgery is poised to offer improved patient outcomes, transforming lives for those grappling with the challenges of obesity.
Efficacy and Safety of Rimegepant for Migraine Patients: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies
Authors: Yang Chao , Zhang Yue
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Rimegepant may have some potential in treating migraine, and this meta-analysis aims to study the efficacy and safety of rimegepant for migraine patients.

Methods

We have searched several databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library databases and selected the randomized controlled trials comparing the efficacy of rimegepant versus placebo for migraine patients. This meta-analysis was conducted using the random- or fixed-effect model based on the heterogeneity.

Results

Three randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with placebo in migraine patients, rimegepant treatment was associated with substantially improved freedom from pain at 2 hours (odds ratio [OR], 2.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.69–2.59; P < 0.00001), pain relief at 2 hours (OR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.65 to 2.25; P < 0.00001), freedom from the most bothersome symptom at 2 hours (OR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.35–1.91; P < 0.00001), ability to function normally at 2 hours (OR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.42–2.01; P < 0.00001), sustained freedom from pain at 24 hours (OR, 2.88; 95% CI, 1.74–4.78; P < 0.0001), sustained pain relief at 24 hours (OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.96–2.72; P < 0.00001), and no rescue medication (OR, 2.42; 95% CI, 2.02–2.90; P < 0.00001) but showed no obvious impact on adverse events (OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.01–1.60; P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Rimegepant may be effective and safe for the treatment of migraine patients.