bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical profile and magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of Duane retraction syndrome
Authors: Suma Unnikrishnan , Ferzana Mohammed , Babitha Valiyaveetil , Jyothi Poothatta
Published: May 2024

PURPOSE:

To describe the clinical profile and magnetic resonance imaging findings of the brain in Duane retraction syndrome (DRS) and determine whether there is an association between clinical presentation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain characteristics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a cross-sectional study done at a tertiary care center in South India. We recruited and analyzed the clinical characteristics of 54 patients with DRS. MRI of the brain with fast imaging employing steady-state acquisition (FIESTA) was performed in 41 cases, and the cisternal segment of the sixth nerve was studied. Statistical analysis was done to determine any association between the radiological and clinical features.

RESULTS:

Type 1 DRS was predominant, followed by Type 3 DRS and Type 2 DRS. 9.3% of cases were bilateral and 11.1% were familial. Orthotropia was most common, followed by esotropia and exotropia. The MRI brain showed the absence of the cisternal part of the sixth nerve on the affected side in 82% of Type 1 and 75% of Type 3 unilateral DRS. Both the abducens nerves were visualized in 19.5% of the patients with unilateral DRS. There was no statistically significant association between MRI brain findings and the clinical features.

CONCLUSIONS:

MRI brain with FIESTA shows absent or hypoplastic sixth nerve in most cases of Type 1 and Type 3 DRS. However, around 20% of DRS cases may show the presence of the cisternal part of the sixth nerve. Hence, clinicians must be cautious when ruling out DRS on the basis of MRI brain findings. Although aplasia of the sixth nerve is the most frequent MRI finding, it may not be the sole etiologic factor.
Anterior segment optical coherence tomography features of ocular surface squamous epithelial hyperplasia: A report of four cases
Authors: Vempuluru Vijitha S. , Ghose Neha , Jakati Saumya , Kaliki Swathi
Published: May 2024

Herein, we report the clinico-tomographic and histopathological features of four patients with biopsy-proven ocular surface squamous epithelial hyperplasia (OSSEH), a close mimicker of ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN). The mean age at diagnosis was 58 years (median, 60 years; range, 35–77 years). All lesions were unilateral. Isolated corneal plaque was seen in 50% (n = 2) and nodular lesion at the nasal limbus in 50% (n = 2). Keratinization was seen in 75% (n = 3) of lesions and intrinsic vessels in 75% (n = 3). A clinical diagnosis of OSSN was made in all cases. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT) revealed mild epithelial hyperreflectivity in 100% (n = 4). The epithelium was normal in thickness in 75% (n = 3) and showed mild thickening in 25% (n = 1). Only 25% (n = 1) showed abrupt transition in epithelial thickness from the contiguous corneal epithelium. Histopathological examination revealed hyperplastic squamous epithelium and no cellular atypia in all cases. Stable ocular surface and no recurrences were noted at a mean follow-up of 17 months (median, 11 months; range, 2–43 months). Although OSSEH can mimic OSSN clinically, the presence of mild epithelial hyperreflectivity, lack of epithelial thickening, absence of abrupt transition from normal epithelium, and presence of subepithelial hyperreflectivity on ASOCT favor the diagnosis of OSSEH.
Ocular and periocular tumors in 855 Asian Indian geriatric patients
Authors: Kaliki Swathi , Das Anthony Vipin
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this study was to describe the eye tumors in Asian Indian geriatric population (age >60 years) presenting to a multitier ophthalmology hospital network in India.

METHODS:

This was a retrospective study of 855 Asian Indian geriatric patients.

RESULTS:

During the 3-year study period, 855 geriatric patients were diagnosed with eye tumors. The mean age at presentation with an ocular or periocular tumor was 68 years (median, 67 years; range, 60–91 years). There were 458 (54%) benign tumors and 397 (46%) malignant tumors. The distribution of benign versus malignant tumors in different age groups was 324 (71%) versus 259 (65%) in 60–70 years, 116 (25%) versus 99 (25%) in 71–80 years, and 18 (4%) versus 39 (10%) in >80 years' age groups. The three most common benign tumors included eyelid cyst (n = 99, 22%), eyelid nevus (n = 50, 11%), and pseudotumor or nonspecific orbital inflammatory disease (n = 38, 8%). The three most common malignant tumors included ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) (n = 208, 52%), periocular sebaceous gland carcinoma (n = 68, 17%), and periocular basal cell carcinoma (n = 25, 6%). Overall, OSSN was the most common tumor in all age groups (22% of all tumors in 60–70 years, 27% in 71–80 years, and 39% in >80 years' age groups).

CONCLUSION:

Overall, there is an increasing trend of malignant tumors with increasing age. OSSN is the most common tumor in the geriatric population encountered in a referral-based comprehensive ocular oncology practice in India.
Metastatic retinoblastoma at presentation: Clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes
Authors: Kakarala Chandra L. , Raval Vishal Rameshkumar , Mallu Akhila , Rao Rohit , Gavara Suneetha , Reddy Vijay Anand P. , Mishra Dilip K. , Jakati Saumya , Kaliki Swathi
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to retrospectively determine clinical features, treatment outcomes, and overall survival in four patients with metastatic retinoblastoma at presentation. The mean age at diagnosis was 63 months (range: 24–108 months). Three patients had overt orbital disease of at least one eye and one patient had microscopic orbital disease with scleral infiltration on histopathology. Metastatic sites included regional lymph nodes (RLN) (n = 4), bone marrow (BM) (n = 2), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (n = 1). The most common sites of RLN were ipsilateral preauricular nodes (two patients) and contralateral parotid gland involvement (one patient). The treatment administered included primary enucleation (n = 1), high-dose intravenous chemotherapy (n = 4), secondary enucleation (n = 2), orbital external beam radiotherapy (n = 3), and intrathecal chemotherapy (n = 1). High-risk features included massive choroidal and microscopic scleral infiltration in the eye that underwent primary enucleation. At a mean follow-up of 33 months (range, 4–68 months), one patient with CSF involvement deceased in 4 months. The remaining three patients were alive and disease-free at the last mean follow-up period of 43 months (range, 18–68 months). The results of our study showed that RLN and BM metastasis respond well to treatment while CSF metastasis is associated with poor prognosis.
Evolution and successful management of a large postvitrectomy macular hole
Authors: Shukla Dhananjay , Kalliath Jay
Published: May 2024

We report the successful closure of a large postvitrectomy macular hole by temporal extension of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. A 25-year-old man underwent pars plana vitrectomy, ILM peeling, and perfluoropropane gas tamponade for optic pit with chronic macular schisis and outer lamellar hole. The macular schisis deroofed into a large, full-thickness macular hole postoperatively. Optical coherence tomography revealed the horizontally oval shape of the secondary macular hole (658 × 824 μ). The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/200. Since ILM had already been peeled and the macular hole was widest horizontally, we combined a repeat gas tamponade with temporal extension of the ILM rhexis. Closure of the large macular hole with no central defect was observed and documented after the gas fill of the vitreous cavity was reduced sufficiently. BCVA remained unchanged for the initial months but gradually improved to 20/63 by the final follow-up visit at 5 years. A simple horizontal extension of ILM peel – in line with the shape of the hole – with repeat gas tamponade successfully closed a large secondary macular hole with progressive visual improvement.
Effect of legislation and changing trends of Diwali ocular firecracker injuries in Northern India
Authors: Dhiman Rebika , Mahalingam Karthikeyan , Balakrishnan Neelima , Kumar Atul , Saxena Rohit , Sihota Ramanjit
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this study is to study the impact of temporary legislation implemented during Diwali on ocular firecracker injuries in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) region.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this retrospective study, records of the patients presenting with ocular firecracker injury during 10 days of Diwali (prediwali, Diwali and 8 days postdiwali) from 2014 to 2019 were retreived from the medical record section. Clinico-demographic profile, relevant history pertaining to the use of firecracker, and details of eye examination, namely presenting visual acuity (VA), laterality and classification of injury based on Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology System were noted.

RESULTS:

Six hundred and sixty-seven eyes of 646 patients were recruited. The median age of patients was 14 years (R = 3–65 years) and male: Female ratio was 4.9:1. Majority of patients (57.7%; n = 373) were from outside Delhi. Most of them were open globe injuries (66.8%). In 55.4% (n = 356) eyes, presenting VA was perception of light to finger counting close to face and 28% (n = 180) eyes could not perceive any light. A significant reduction was noted in the number of ocular firecrcaker injuries after regulation (preregulation [2014–2016] n = 456; postregulation [2017–2019] n = 211; [P = 0.01, t-test]). During preregulation period, presenting VA was worse than 1/60 in significantly higher number of eyes (85.5%; n = 376) than post regulation (78.8%, n = 160) (P = 0.03, Chi-square test).

CONCLUSION:

Although temporary legislation seems to be effective in reducing ocular firecracker injuries (52.7% reduction) in NCR, uniform implementation of stricter laws nationwide is essential to further minimize the problem.
Role of oral acetazolamide in refractory glaucomatous deep cup-related maculopathy
Authors: Manayath George Joseph , Ranjan Ratnesh , Khare Shubhank , Vidhate Swapnil , Venkatapathy Narendran
Published: May 2024

A 39-year-old man, a known case of primary open-angle glaucoma on treatment, presented with defective central vision in the left eye. On examination, his intraocular pressure (IOP) was 26 mmHg in the right eye and 30 mmHg in the left eye with best-corrected visual acuity of 6/12 in each eye. Fundus examination showed glaucomatous optic neuropathy in both eyes and macular thickening in the left eye. Optical coherence tomography of the left eye showed macular detachment with peripapillary retinoschisis and a hyporeflective tract connecting schitic retina and the deep cup in the absence of an optic disc pit. A diagnosis of glaucomatous deep cup maculopathy (DCM) was made in the left eye, which persisted despite well-controlled IOP and peripapillary laser photocoagulation. The addition of oral acetazolamide (250 mg twice daily) to his regimen resulted in prompt resolution of maculopathy. Glaucomatous DCM is relatively rare, and its primary management is adequate IOP control with antiglaucoma medications. Including oral acetazolamide in the antiglaucoma regimen can help in faster resolution of maculopathy due to its additional effect on retinal pigment epithelial pump induction and stabilization of the pressure gradient.
Clinical and demographic profile of pediatric cataracts among Omani children presenting to a tertiary eye care center, Oman
Authors: Al-Riyami Muzna , AlAamri Hajar , AlAsmi Maitha , Al-Jabri Samira , Kishore H.
Published: May 2024

CONTEXT:

This study aimed to know the clinical and demographic profile of pediatric cataracts in Oman.

AIMS:

The aim of this study was to describe the demographic and clinical profile of pediatric cataracts in a tertiary care hospital, Oman.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:

This was a hospital-based, retrospective observational study.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS:

A retrospective cross-sectional study of all Omani children presented to ophthalmology outpatient at a tertiary hospital, between January 2012 and December 2016. All patients aged <18 years presented with lens opacity were included in the study. Traumatic cataract cases were excluded from the study.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:

SPSS version 22.0 International Business Machines, (Armonk, New York, Unites States of America, dated 8/13/13) used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS:

Among 379 eyes of 239 patients, 58.6% (140 patients) had bilateral cataracts. Male-to-female ratio was 1.38:1. We arrived at prevalence of 4.32 with 95% confidence interval (3.85, 4.77) of congenital cataract cases/10,000 Omani Children. Most patients (54%) were from either Muscat (28.9%) or A’Sharqiyah (25.1%). The median age of cataracts first noticed by parents was 3 months and the median age of presentation to the eye care unit was 15 months. Patients with positive family history significantly (P = 0.007) presented with bilateral cataracts (75%). About 22.2% of the patients had associated systemic diseases. Among those with systemic association, 77.4% of cases had bilateral cataracts. About 35.4% of eyes had another ocular association. The most common ocular association was squint (11.1%). The most common cataract morphologies at presentation were 20.1% presenting with total lens opacities and 19.8% with posterior subcapsular/posterior lenticonus.

CONCLUSIONS:

A higher demographic distribution of pediatric cataracts was found in Muscat governorate. There was a significant median delay in presentation to the pediatric ophthalmology clinic by 12 months since lens opacity was first noticed by parents.
Subluxated cataractous lens and high myopia: An uncommon association in an achondroplasia child
Authors: Kishore H.
Published: May 2024

Achondroplasia is an autosomal dominant congenital disorder of endochondral ossification, induced by abnormal activity of fibroblast growth factor receptor 3. Affected individuals have short stature and often present with neurological and skeletal complications. Most have normal intelligence. Ocular association with achondroplasia include simple microphthalmos, congenital-onset glaucoma with presumed Axenfeld–Rieger anomaly, telecanthus, exotropia, inferior oblique overaction, angle anomalies, Duane retraction syndrome, cone-rod dystrophy, fundus albipunctatus, chorioretinal coloboma, macular coloboma, keratoconus, and developmental cataract. A 6-year-old achondroplasia boy with developmental delay had a high axial length (high myopia) in both eyes. This child had a left eye subluxated cataractous lens, while the other eye showed mild lens changes. All achondroplasia patients should be routinely screened in detail for lens and other ophthalmological anomalies so that they can undergo timely intervention and management.
Keratoconus: A historical and prospective review
Authors: Sinjab Mazen M.
Published: May 2024

This article is a historical and prospective review of keratoconus and ectatic corneal diseases. It covers definitions and terminology, the prevalence of keratoconus, predisposing factors, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, management, classifications, and progression criteria. It highlights other aspects of the disease that are usually over-missed, including the psychological, social, and economic impact. This review presents the information chronically in terms of the first author. It concludes by possessing the challenges and difficulties that are still to be overcome and suggests a plan.
Exposure keratopathy and its associated risk factors in patients undergoing general anesthesia in nonocular surgeries
Authors: Amini Nazanin , Rezaei Korosh , Modir Hesameddin , Majd Rezvan Kazemi , Graminejad Neda , Rafiei Fatemeh , Rezaei Reza , Davoodabady Zohreh , Bayati Akram
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION:

The most common eye injury during and after general anesthesia is corneal abrasion which can occur at any time after anesthesia and even up to 24 h after it. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and factors associated with corneal injury in patients undergoing nonocular surgery.

METHODS:

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. A total of 170 patients, who were admitted to the operating room and met the inclusion criteria, were selected through simple nonprobability sampling. Data collection forms were used in order to assess the incidence of corneal injury and its related risk factors. The National Eye Institute scale with fluorescein paper and cobalt blue light by slit lamp were utilized to examine exposure keratopathy.

RESULTS:

Overall, the results showed that the incidence of keratopathy immediately after eye care removal was found to be 64.7% in the operating room, 65.9% in the recovery room, and 41.2% in 24 h after the surgery. Smokers’ patients and drug abusers under general anesthesia underwent endotracheal intubation, received more opioids preoperatively, and had more perioperative bleeding and fluid intake. Moreover, in patients who had received more oxygen flow in the recovery room; the rate of keratopathy was higher.

CONCLUSION:

Smoking, drug usage, and receiving endotracheal intubation are the risk factors of keratopathy. Therefore, for high-risk patients and procedures, it is indispensable to both obtain preoperative information and take intraoperative precautions in order to prevent eye injuries. Future studies are needed to demonstrate these finding.
Bilateral serous retinal detachment
Authors: Al Kalbani Khulood , Al Hinai Ahmed , Al Busaidi Aisha
Published: May 2024

A 60-year-old female presented with acute onset painless loss of vision in both eyes. Clinical examination and ocular investigations revealed bilateral serous retinal detachments (SRDs) over the macula. There was no obvious intraocular or extraocular cause to the presentation. A blood count showed leukocytosis with the presence of blast cells on the peripheral smear. Further workup confirmed the diagnosis of Philadelphia chromosome-positive mixed phenotype acute leukemia with central nervous system disease stage three. Anatomic improvement in the SRD followed intensive intravenous and intrathecal chemotherapy. Limited functional improvement was attributed to the development of pigment epitheliopathy manifesting as leopard spot chorioretinopathy. This permanent disturbance could be attributed to leukemic infiltration and ischemia to the choroid.
Retrospective evaluation of geriatric patients applying to a dentistry faculty during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: İçöz Derya , Karakurt Rıdvan , Akgünlü Faruk
Published: May 2024

Background:

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on dental procedures, as dentistry is one of the areas at the highest risk for the transmission of COVID-19.

Aim:

The aim of the present study was to determine the application density of geriatric patients during the pandemic and to investigate the most common reasons for referral to a dentistry faculty.

Materials and Methods:

For the study, the 1 year was divided into four equal periods of 3 months, and the number of patients examined in these periods; the age and gender information of the patients, their systemic conditions, and the primary reasons for admission were recorded from the patient files.

Results:

The total number of geriatric patients who were examined during this process was determined as 848. According to the periods, the number of patients who were examined was the lowest in the 1st period (53 [6.3%]) and the highest in the 4th period (349 [41.2%]). For all four periods, it was determined that the most common reason for the application was prosthetic reasons (39.4%), the most common comorbid disease was hypertension (37.7%), and cancer patients applied statistically significantly less in the 1st period (P = 0.040).

Conclusion:

According to the results of this study, the number of dental patients has gradually increased for the 1st year of COVID-19 cases. Although there was no statistical difference between the periods in terms of pain, alveolitis, need for restoration due to fracture, trauma, etc., COVID-19 had significant effects on dental applications, as in many areas.
Lower urinary tract dysfunction in the central nervous system neurogenic bladder and the real-life treatment outcome of botulinum toxin A
Authors: Kuo Hann-Chorng
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) is common in patients with central nervous system (CNS) lesions. Cases of cerebrovascular accidents (CVA), Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and other intracranial lesions develop poor bladder control with or without urinary difficulty due to loss of cortical perception of bladder filling sensation and poor coordination of urethral sphincter relaxation during reflex micturition. Patients with CNS lesions usually have overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms, including urgency, frequency, incontinence, voiding symptoms of dysuria, large postvoid residual volume, and retention. In elderly patients with severe CNS disease the OAB symptoms are usually difficult to adequately relieve by medical treatment, and thus, their quality of life is greatly. Botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) is currently licensed and has been applied in patients with idiopathic and neurogenic OAB due to spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis. However, the application of BoNT-A in the treatment of urinary incontinence due to NLUTD in chronic CNS lesions has not been well-documented. Although cohort studies and case series support BoNT-A treatment for neurogenic OAB, chronic urine retention after intravesical BoNT-A injection for OAB and exacerbated urinary incontinence after urethral BoNT-A injection for voiding dysfunction have greatly limited its application among patients with NLUTD due to CNS lesions. This article reviews the pathophysiology and clinical characteristics of NLUTD in patients with CNS lesions and the clinical effects and adverse events of BoNT-A injection for patients with NLUTD. A flowchart was created to outline the patient selection and treatment strategy for neurogenic OAB.
Random walks and the “Euclidean” association scheme in finite vector spaces
Authors: Brittenham Charles , Pakianathan Jonathan
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we provide an application to the random distance-t walk in finite planes and derive asymptotic formulas (as

$q \to \infty $

) for the probability of return to start point after

$\ell $

steps based on the “vertical” equidistribution of Kloosterman sums established by N. Katz. This work relies on a “Euclidean” association scheme studied in prior work of W. M. Kwok, E. Bannai, O. Shimabukuro, and H. Tanaka. We also provide a self-contained computation of the P-matrix and intersection numbers of this scheme for convenience in our application as well as a more explicit form for the intersection numbers in the planar case.
Association between Gait Speed and Balance Disorders in Older Adults from 12 High Andean Peruvian Communities, 2013–2019
Authors: Oliva-Zapata Fiorella , Ururi-Cupi Kimi , Salazar-Talla Leslie , Alcantara-Diaz Ana L. , Cuba-Ruiz Sofia , Urrunaga-Pastor Diego , Runzer-Colmenares Fernando M. , Parodi José F.
Published: May 2024

Background: Gait speed is associated with a higher prevalence of balance disorders in older adults residing at high altitudes. This study investigated this association in older adults from 12 high-altitude Andean Peruvian communities. Methods: We performed a secondary data analysis from an analytical cross-sectional study of adults >60 years of age, residing in 12 high-altitude Andean Peruvian communities, enrolled between 2013 and 2019. The exposure and outcome variables were gait speed (categorized in tertiles), and balance disorders (defined as a functional reach value of ≤20.32 cm), respectively. We built generalized linear models of the Poisson family with a logarithmic link function and robust variances, and estimated crude prevalence ratios (cPR) and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: We analyzed 418 older adults; 38.8% (n=162) were male, and the mean age was 73.2±6.9 years. The mean gait speed and functional reach were 0.66±0.24 m/s and 19.9±6.48 cm, respectively. In the adjusted regression model, the intermediate (aPR=1.88; 95% CI, 1.39–2.55; p<0.001) and low (aPR=2.04; 95% CI, 1.51–2.76; p<0.001) tertiles of gait speed were associated with a higher prevalence of balance disorders. Conclusion: The intermediate and low tertiles of gait speed were associated with a higher prevalence of balance disorders among older adult residents of 12 high-altitude Andean communities. We recommend further research on the behavior of this association to propose interventions for these vulnerable groups and reduce the impact of geriatric conditions.
Beyond survival: understanding post-intensive care syndrome
Authors: Gupta Lovish , Subair Maazen Naduthra , Munjal Jaskaran , Singh Bhupinder , Bansal Vasu , Gupta Vasu , Jain Rohit
Published: May 2024

Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) refers to persistent or new onset physical, mental, and neurocognitive complications that can occur following a stay in the intensive care unit. PICS encompasses muscle weakness; neuropathy; cognitive deficits including memory, executive, and attention impairments; post-traumatic stress disorder; and other mood disorders. PICS can last long after hospital admission and can cause significant physical, emotional, and financial stress for patients and their families. Several modifiable risk factors, such as duration of sepsis, delirium, and mechanical ventilation, are associated with PICS. However, due to limited awareness about PICS, these factors are often overlooked. The objective of this paper is to highlight the pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnostic methods, and available preventive and treatment options for PICS.
Microbial infections in burn patients
Authors: Roy Souvik , Mukherjee Preeti , Kundu Sutrisha , Majumder Debashrita , Raychaudhuri Vivek , Choudhury Lopamudra
Published: May 2024

Polymicrobial infections are the leading causes of complications incurred from injuries that burn patients develop. Such patients admitted to the hospital have a high risk of developing hospital-acquired infections, with longer patient stays leading to increased chances of acquiring such drug-resistant infections. Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus mirabilis are the most common multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria identified in burn wound infections (BWIs). BWIs caused by viruses, like Herpes Simplex and Varicella Zoster, and fungi-like Candida spp. appear to occur occasionally. However, the preponderance of infection by opportunistic pathogens is very high in burn patients. Variations in the causative agents of BWIs are due to differences in geographic location and infection control measures. Overall, burn injuries are characterized by elevated serum cytokine levels, systemic immune response, and immunosuppression. Hence, early detection and treatment can accelerate the wound-healing process and reduce the risk of further infections at the site of injury. A multidisciplinary collaboration between burn surgeons and infectious disease specialists is also needed to properly monitor antibiotic resistance in BWI pathogens, help check the super-spread of MDR pathogens, and improve treatment outcomes as a result.
Sex or gender differences in treatment outcomes of sepsis and septic shock
Authors: Min Seung Yeon , Yong Ho Jin , Kim Dohhyung
Published: May 2024

Gender disparities in intensive care unit (ICU) treatment approaches and outcomes are evident. However, clinicians often pay little attention to the importance of biological sex and sociocultural gender in their treatment courses. Previous studies have reported that differences between sexes or genders can significantly affect the manifestation of diseases, diagnosis, clinicians' treatment decisions, scope of treatment, and treatment outcomes in the intensive care field. In addition, numerous reports have suggested that immunomodulatory effects of sex hormones and differences in gene expression from X chromosomes between genders might play a significant role in treatment outcomes of various diseases. However, results from clinical studies are conflicting. Recently, the need for customized treatment based on physical, physiological, and genetic differences between females and males and sociocultural characteristics of society have been increasingly emphasized. However, interest in and research into this field are remarkably lacking in Asian countries, including South Korea. Through this review, we hope to enhance our awareness of the importance of sex and gender in intensive care treatment and research by briefly summarizing several principal issues, mainly focusing on sex and sex hormone-based outcomes in patients admitted to the ICU with sepsis and septic shock.
Risk factors and outcomes of peptic ulcer bleed in a Pakistani population: A single-center observational study
Authors: Butt Nazish , Usmani Muhammad Tayyab , Mehak Nimrah , Mughal Saba , Qazi-Arisar Fakhar Ali , Mohiuddin Ghulam , Khan Gulzar
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) remains a significant healthcare burden, contributing to morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite advancements in therapies, its prevalence persists, particularly in regions with widespread nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) use and Helicobacter pylori infection.

AIM

To comprehensively analyse the risk factors and outcomes of PUD-related upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in Pakistani population.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 142 patients with peptic ulcer bleeding who underwent upper GI endoscopy from January to December 2022. Data on demographics, symptoms, length of stay, mortality, re-bleed, and Forrest classification was collected.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients was 53 years, and the majority was men (68.3%). Hematemesis (82.4%) and epigastric pain (75.4%) were the most common presenting symptoms. Most patients (73.2%) were discharged within five days. The mortality rates at one week and one month were 10.6% and 14.8%, respectively. Re-bleed within 24 h and seven days occurred in 14.1% and 18.3% of patients, respectively. Most ulcers were Forrest class (FC) III (72.5%). Antiplatelet use was associated with higher mortality at 7 and 30 d, while alternative medications were linked to higher 24-hour re-bleed rates. NSAID use was associated with more FC III ulcers. Re-bleed at 24 h and 7 d was strongly associated with one-week or one-month mortality.

CONCLUSION

Antiplatelet use and rebleeding increase the risk of early mortality in PUD-related upper GI bleeding, while alternative medicines are associated with early rebleeding.
Recent developments in the regulation of cross-border technology and licensing agreements in Nigeria
Authors: Sodipo Bankole , Odunaike Dorcas
Published: May 2024

This article analyses the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) Act that prescribes the registration of certain cross-border agreements largely concerning intellectual property and management services involving Nigerians and foreigners. It discusses the policy underpinning this obligation to register. It reviews the recent amendment of the NOTAP Act. It scrutinizes the debate that suggests that the non-registration of NOTAP registrable agreements makes those agreements illegal and unenforceable. It reviews the two appellate decisions on the issue and argues that, presently, it is erroneous to treat such registrable agreements as illegal. Today, the only effect of non-registration of registrable agreements is that foreign exchange fees, royalties and the like cannot be remitted through the Central Bank of Nigeria. The article highlights the possible commercial impact of such erroneous treatment of unregistered registrable agreements. The article examines whether the powers of NOTAP extend to making cross-border licensing and technology agreements between a Nigerian-based licensor and foreign-based entity registrable by NOTAP. It calls for an amendment of the NOTAP Act to make the registration of registrable agreements compulsory such that non-registration will make such agreements unenforceable.
Act on Protection of Geographical Indications of Iran: in line or contradiction with international treaties
Authors: Rezaei Ali
Published: May 2024

Iran is a country with an ancient civilization with many unique products and goods. To protect the rights of geographical indications owners, Iran has adopted an Act in this regard. This article aims to examine the strengths and weaknesses of the Iranian Act and the extent of its compliance or non-compliance with international treaties in this field.

The results and achievements of this study, which are not limited to Iran and can be used for the international system as well as developing countries, indicate that the multiplicity of international treaties, lack of sanctions or insufficient sanctions, the manner of procedure and proceedings authorities, different interpretations of concepts contrary to public order and good morals, as well as ignoring the issue of labels and barcodes are some of the most important challenges and problems facing the effective protection of geographical indications.

Obviously, Iran can protect geographical indications in a more effective way by providing some strategies. Including protection for geographical indications in bilateral or multilateral investment treaties, applying quality control on products bearing geographical indications and intensifying performance guarantees (or sanctions), building culture and increasing coordination between public and private sectors and investing to strengthen the value of geographical indications in the market are among the most important solutions that have been presented.
Polityk dwóch epok, taki, jakim (nie) był. Minister Tadeusz Matuszewicz i jego biografia
Authors: Pilarczyk Piotr Miłosz
Published: May 2024

Tadeusz Matuszewicz was a politician, civil servant, and statesman. He lived at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries, taking part in several important events of this period, the most significant of which were participation in the drafting of the Constitution of 3 May 1791 and its adoption, and holding the post of the Minister of Treasury both in the Duchy of Warsaw and the Kingdom of Poland. He also took part in the Civil Reform Committee, which prepared changes to the administrative system. The details of Matuszewicz’s biography should therefore illuminate a number of public and legal issues of the era. The reviewed book of Dominika Rychel-Mantur is intended as a biography of Matuszewicz’s public activities. In fact, it only slightly expands the knowledge concerning some aspects of Matuszewicz’s life between 1809 and 1815. Other public activities are either omitted or superficially elaborated. The author did not use the basic archival sources and omitted important pieces of literature on the subject. Many of the findings presented against the source materials used turn out to be untrue due to their misunderstanding or misreading. Unfortunately, Dominika Rychel-Mantur’s book can hardly be regarded as successful.
Kiedy cnota staje się maską tyranii, czyli jeszcze kilka uwag o rozstrzygnięciu Trybunału Konstytucyjnego w sprawie K 1/20
Authors: Niżnik-Mucha Agata
Published: May 2024

In its judgment of 22.10.2020 (K 1/20), the Constitutional Court ruled out the possibility of aborting a pregnancy due to the occurrence of a so-called embryopathological premise. It deprived women of the possibility to make an autonomous decision in the case of severe and irreversible disability or incurable disease of the fetus. The paper analyses the Court’s errors in, inter alia, establishing the constitutional status of the nasciturus, conducting the dignity argument or the proportionality test. The authoress shows that the judgment is political and ideological in nature and that the Court refers to the judgment in Case K 26/96 in a selective and manipulative manner. The text to some extent polemics with the theses of P. Łącki and B. Wróblewski presented in the paper on Niekonstytucyjność tzw. aborcji eugenicznej (embriopatologicznej). Schemat argumentacji Trybunału Konstytucyjnego w sprawie K 1/20 (Unconstitutionality of the so-called eugenic (embryopathological) abortion. The pattern of argumentation of the Constitutional Tribunal in Case K 1/20), which came out in the previous issue of the “Przegląd Konstytucyjny” quarterly.
Seğmen Geleneğinin Bilecik Yörükleri Tarafından “Seğmen Tutma” Adı Altında İcra Edilişi
Authors: Uzsoy Nedim
Published: May 2024

Bir Oğuz töresi olan seğmen geleneği, adı Ankara civarında yaşayan Yörüklerle özdeşleşmiş olmasına rağmen Anadolu’nun diğer bölgelerinde yaşayan Yörükler tarafından da çeşitli şekillerde yaşatılmaktadır. Toplum menfaati adına biz bilinciyle ve koruyuculuk vasfıyla ortaya çıkan seğmenler tarihimizde bilinen son büyük kolektif işlevini Atatürk’ün ilk kez Ankara’ya gelişi sırasında onu kendilerine reis olarak seçtikleri ve kendisini koruma vazifesini üstlendikleri mesajını vermek gayesiyle ortaya koymuştur. Başlangıçta yurt güvenliğini sağlama kaygısıyla şekillenmiş, daha sonraları düğün alaylarının güvenliğini sağlayan birliklere dönüşmüş olan seğmenler, günümüzde Yörük kültürünü yaşatmak adına düğünlerde, törenlerde ve dernek organizasyonlarında kendine has türküler eşliğinde icra edilen seğmen tutma geleneğinin geçici nostaljik icracıları olarak varlığını korumaktadırlar. Geleneksel kültürü yaşatma gayesinin yanında birlik beraberliği koruma ve güçlendirme işlevini de devam ettiren seğmen geleneği 13. yüzyılda Bilecik’e Ertuğrul Gazi Bey önderliğinde uç beyliği olarak gelip yerleşen Oğuzların Kayı boyuna mensup Karakeçili aşiretinin bugünkü torunları tarafından yaşatılmaktadır. Bu çalışmada Bilecik’te yaşayan Yörüklerin seğmen geleneğini yaşatmak adına çabaları, seğmen tutma geleneğinde uyguladıkları ritüeller ve bu geleneğe yükledikleri anlamlar gözlemler ışığında değerlendirilecek ve bu geleneğin daha geniş kitlelerce tanınması sağlanacaktır.
СТАН ІНТЕЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЇ ТА ФІЗИЧНОЇ ПРАЦЕЗДАТНОСТІ У ОСІБ МОЛОДОГО ВІКУ З РІЗНИМ ТИПОМ ФУНКЦІОНАЛЬНОЇ АСИМЕТРІЇ
Authors: Bulynina O.D. , Isaieva I.M.
Published: May 2024

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Utility of Next-Generation Sequencing Panel Including Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer-Related Genes for Pathogenic Variant Detection
Authors: Lee Jae Hee , Kim Do-Hoon
Published: May 2024

Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC) is an inherited disorder associated with a higher than normal risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Most HBOC patients possess certain pathogenic variants (PVs) in BRCA1/2 genes. However, studies have indicated that HBOC patients may also have PVs in other cancer-related genes. Therefore, we analyzed variants in BRCA1/2 and other hereditary cancer-related genes in suspected HBOC patients using the multi-gene next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel method. We enrolled a total of 148 patients with cancers related to HBOC including breast, ovarian, primary peritoneal, prostate, and fallopian tube cancer. The 48 multi-gene NGS assay was applied to all samples, and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and direct sequencing were used to confirm variants in BRCA1/2 and Lynch syndrome-related genes. We identified 17 PVs or likely PVs in 148 participants (11.5%), with PVs in BRCA1/2 detected in 7 patients (4.7%). We found PVs other than BRCA1/2 in 10 patients through the NGS panel and MLPA (7.1%). Apart from BRCA1/2, the genes in which PVs were detected included RAD51D, MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6. The NGS method shows significant potential in diagnosing and treating suspected HBOC patients, particularly those who test negative for BRCA1/2 genes.
Corporate Social Responsibility and the Importance of Esg Reporting From the Young Generation Perspective
Authors: Blahušiaková Miriama
Published: May 2024

Since the adoption of the Non-Financial Reporting Directive, companies are required to report information on environmental, social, and employee matters, respect for human rights, anti-corruption, and bribery matters. These aspects represent some of the elements of socially responsible corporate behavior. Following the adoption of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and its gradual transposition into the European Union Member States' national legislation, the ESG reporting requirements are becoming stricter. The aim is to ensure transparency and comparability of reported sustainability information, to prevent greenwashing, and to ensure that companies behave in a socially responsible manner to the environment, society, and governance, and report this information in the Sustainability Report. The paper aims to analyze how the young generation from four different countries perceives the socially responsible behavior of companies and what importance they give to different aspects of corporate social responsibility. To meet the purpose of the paper, a standard methodology of legislation and literature review was performed. Afterward, a questionnaire survey was conducted in which we investigated the attitudes of the young generation to the socially responsible behavior of companies. The results of the research showed that the young generation perceives social responsibility in companies’ behavior and takes it as a competitive advantage in the market. The results, among others, showed which aspects of responsible business are the most important for the young generation, if young people can name some socially responsible companies, and if they prefer to buy products or services from companies that behave responsibly to society and the environment, etc. The paper analyses the attitudes of the young generation which can be a limited factor in the research. More detailed analysis within all the age groups could bring different results. The number of respondents is another limitation.
Digital Nomads and Their Influence on Local Economy Development
Authors: Lazarević – Moravčević Marija , Mosurović Ružičić Marija , Paunović Mihailo
Published: May 2024

Digital nomads are the simplest to describe as professionals who perform tasks independently of location and with the application of digital technology. Those individuals are characterized by a constant search for freedom, an escape from the traditional work environment, autonomy in choosing a destination for life and work. The locations chosen by digital nomads are pleasant environments, i.e. destinations where it is possible to satisfy work, social and financial needs. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the significance of digital nomadism as a global phenomenon. Acknowledging the impact that digital nomads have on the development of the local economy and community, the findings of the paper indicate the role of a strategic approach in creating an attractive environment for their arrival, stay and work.
The Effects of High Work Involvement on the Well-Being of It Sector Employees in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Jevtić Tamara , Gašić Dimitrije
Published: May 2024

In the modern business environment, organizations focus on strategies and concepts that are in the domain of social responsibility, with the aim of strengthening their competitive position on the market. This paper deals with human resource management concepts based on new models, such as high employee involvement and employee well-being. The main goal of this research was to examine the relationship between high work involvement and employee well-being. The main research question relates to determining the effect that high work involvement causes on the well-being of employees. The theoretical and empirical part of the research is the methodology of the work. As part of the theoretical part of the research, an overview of the author's previous research on the topic of high work involvement and employee well-being was carried out. Empirical research was conducted on a sample of 100 employees (managers and professional workers) in organizations operating within the IT sector in the Republic of Serbia. The collection of the sample lasted during January 2024 through an electronic questionnaire. Using the PLS-SEM method within the Smart PLS software, the proposed relationship was tested. The results of the research indicated that there is a direct positive effect of high work involvement on the well-being of employees. Employees who are involved in making decisions, solving problems and proposing new ideas will have more developed mental, psychological and emotional aspects of life.
Reconfiguration of Cooperation Ties of Russian Manufacturing Firms Under Economic Sanctions
Authors: Golikova Victoria , Kuznetsov Boris
Published: May 2024

This paper is focused on one important direct consequence of economic sanctions introduced in 2022: namely, on the necessity to change the suppliers of raw materials, components and equipment in Russian manufacturing firms that historically had long-term cooperation ties with the partners from Europe. The main goal of the paper is to investigate the immediate response to the break of contracts and cooperation agreements, namely, (a) what firm-specific features are associated with the managerial decision to change the suppliers,  (b) what is the scale of import substitution and (c) what is the geographical structure of new cooperation partners. This study is based on the results of the representative survey of 1860 Russian manufacturing firms. It was conducted with CEOs in 2022 and covers firms with more than 10 employees. The survey reports the information on a variety of firm characteristics such as size, age, location, ownership, international trade, cooperation ties, investment and innovation, etc. We provide the empirical evidence that sanctions shock of 2022 turned out to be extremely painful for the current supply structure and forced enterprises to look for solution to compensate for gaps in cooperation chains. We tested several hypotheses to identify those characteristics of the company that are associated with the reconfiguration of suppliers of raw materials/materials, parts/components or technological equipment. In the econometric analysis, we use probit regression controlling for firm size measured as number of employees, industry heterogeneity and regional territorial effects.  Our finding confirmed that it was systematic importers who turned out to be the most vulnerable and affected group because of the imposition of sanctions, and it was this group that began to actively seek a replacement for contractors who had cancelled cooperation. The most technologically advanced firms and active innovators were found to be in the group of those who immediately replaced suppliers in the first months after the imposition of sanctions. Another finding is a significant positive role of the supply chain digitalization.  We have shown that it was European suppliers that Russian firms most often changed in 2022: 80% of firms that changed foreign suppliers indicated Europe as the region of previous supplies. At the same time, in 2/3 of cases, the reason for the replacement was the unilateral refusal of the partner from further deliveries – i.e. the replacement was forced. This was only partially offset by switching to Russian suppliers, although it should be noted that the share of such replacements (from a foreign supplier to a domestic one) turned out to be higher than expected. According to indirect data, enterprises managed to find an alternative within Russia for 30-40% of European partners but most of the changes in the network of foreign suppliers were not related to import substitution as significant part of the imports have switched to China.