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A small Roman bronze figurine of a seated infant was found in Byzantine Shivta in the arid region of the Negev in southern Israel. The figurine was probably part of a sculptural group or part of a vessel or other utensil. This paper studies the iconography of the figurine, and aims to decipher the gap in time between its production in the Roman period and its discovery in a Byzantine context, some two centuries later. We argue that the Roman figurine was readopted in Byzantine Shivta as an amuletic object, and we strive to explain its function as a miniature relic transferred in time, and perhaps also in place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The history of intentional menstrual suppression is often assumed to begin in the 1960s, with the advent of effective oral contraception. This article, however, demonstrates that in the Roman Imperial period, despite widespread belief in the importance of menstruation for maintaining female reproductive health, there was already a diverse marketplace for menstrual suppression techniques. By reading sources against the grain and engaging in critical speculation, this study investigates the available methods, who may have sought them and why, and how their use might reinforce or challenge gendered norms and power dynamics. This study focuses primarily on three sets of sources: Galen's medical treatises on bloodletting, the pharmacological compendia of Pliny the Elder and Dioscorides, and body amulets to regulate vaginal blood flow. It proposes that individuals engaged with these technologies not only to normalise excessive periods, but also to delay, minimise or eliminate menstruation for convenience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is a crucial intervention for stroke prevention in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation who are unsuitable for long-term anticoagulation. Amulet and Watchman are the most implanted devices worldwide for performing LAAC, and the aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive comparison focusing on their efficacy, safety, and short- and long-term outcomes. The Watchman device, the first to gain FDA approval, has been extensively studied and demonstrates significant reductions in stroke and systemic embolism rates. The Amulet device, a newer alternative, promises enhanced design features for more efficient appendage sealing. Current data highlight that both devices offer similar efficacy and safety for LAAC. While the two devices differ in terms of intraprocedural complication rates, they offer similar short- to long-term outcomes in terms of peri-device leaks, device-related thrombosis, and mortality. Both devices are indicated for patients who are unable to tolerate OAC, given their similar risk and safety profiles. Newer clinical studies are directed at establishing the efficacy of both devices as the primary method for stroke prevention in AF as an alternative to OAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A medieval mold-made lead pilgrimage ampulla was retrieved in an underwater excavation in the port of 'Akko. It exhibits molded ribbing, resembling a scallop shell or drawstring purse on one side, and an aniconic quatrefoil petal on the other. Such mass-produced, budget-friendly, lead pilgrim ampullae are well-known in medieval Christianity, probably reflecting an insatiable desire for holy relics. Certain characteristics of the ampulla may suggest that it was locally produced in 'Akko. In the Crusader period, 'Akko was the major maritime gateway in and out of the Holy Land for European pilgrims, and the 'Akko ampulla may have arrived at the Holy Land carried by a pilgrim as an amulet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The only figurative object found in the 1980 salvage excavations at Qlaʿ is a tiny figurine in the shape of a lion, summarily carved in black basalt stone. Although its weight accords with the Judahite sheqel standard, we believe that the lion was an amulet and not a scale weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is traditionally performed under general anesthesia with trans‐esophageal echocardiography guidance. Intracardiac echo (ICE)‐guided LAAO closure is increasing in clinical use. The ICE catheter is crossed into LA via interatrial septum (IAS) after the septum is dilated with LAAO delivery sheath. This step can be time‐consuming and requires significant ICE catheter manipulation, which increases the risk of cardiac perforation. Pre‐emptive septal balloon dilation can potentially help with ICE advancement in the LA. We sought to evaluate the effect of pre‐dilation of the IAS with an 8 mm balloon on the ease of crossing the ICE catheter, fluoroscopy time for crossing, and overall procedure time. Methods: The Piedmont LAAO registry was used to identify consecutive patients who underwent LAAO. The initial 25 patients in whom balloon dilation of the IAS was performed served as the experimental cohort, and the 25 consecutive patients before that in whom balloon dilation was not performed served as controls. In the experimental group, after a trans‐septal puncture, the sheath was retracted to the right atrium with a guidewire still in the LA. An 8 × 40 mm Evercoss™ over the wire balloon was inflated across the IAS. The ICE catheter was then crossed into the LA using the fluoroscopic landmark of the guide wire and the ICE imaging. The sheath was then advanced along the ICE catheter via the transseptal puncture (TSP) and the procedure continued. Follow‐up compputed tomography imaging was obtained at 4–8 weeks. Results: Each group consisted of 25 patients. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics. All procedures were performed successfully under conscious sedation and ICE guidance. There was a significant reduction in the overall procedure time, fluoroscopy time, and time for transseptal puncture to ICE in LA. There was no difference in the size of the acute residual interatrial shunt, as measured via ICE, or the size and presence of iatrogenic ASD at follow‐up. Conclusion: Balloon dilation of TSP is safe and is associated with increased efficiency in ICE‐guided LAAO procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fear of the evil eye is common throughout the world and found in many cultures. Interestingly, there are only a few examples known from ancient Egypt, even if sources such as the Temple Library of Edfu state that there existed rituals against the evil eye. The following article presents papyrus BM EA10563, which contains a new spell against the evil eye, before all known attestations are presented in chronological order and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the study of the patch as a stable tradition of the spiritual and material-artistic culture of the Turkic peoples. The patch is considered as a "participant" in ritual and ritual practice and manual artistic craft. The scientific novelty of the results lies in the fact that for the first-time sources on the ritual and everyday practice of the Turkic peoples with the participation of the patch have been systematized. The collected material is summarized and formed as a comprehensive study. The reconstruction of the functions and the role of the patch in the ritual and daily practice of the Turkic peoples was carried out on the basis of a comparative analysis. The general and distinctive features in the artistic and technological techniques of patchwork technique are established and systematized. Ethnographic materials were collected during field research in the period 2019-2021 and introduce a set of factual sources into the history of art of the peoples of Central Asia. The findings can be used in developments in the field of ethnoculturology of the Turkic world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amulets of mold-made glass depicted a nude squatting fat female figure, with both hands placed in her genital area are a group of finds that are concentrated in ancient cities on the Egyptian, Levant and North African coasts during the Hellenistic and Roman Periods. This group of artefacts used for amulets is known in Anatolia. There are three examples from the Gaye Çarmıklı Collection and the Sadberk Hanım Museum. Only one of the amulets, which attract attention for its original and little-known iconography, is known where it was found. Amulet-1 found in the Dindarlı village of Manisa, where the ancient Lydia region is located. Due to lack of the certain find-context it was dated by analogy method based on the few published samples. The earliest examples of amulets are dated to the 4th century BC and they continued to be more intensively in the Hellenistic Period until the Roman Period. Amulet-1 and 2, which are so similar as to suggest that they may have been made from the same mould, have been dated to the end of the 2nd and 1st century BC on the basis of their similarity to the British Museum’s Egyptian sample. A Late Hellenistic date is suggested for the Amulet-3, whose stylistic differences are observed. The terracotta samples of nude squatting fat female figures found in Egypt were identified by the researchers with the “Baubo”, which mentioned in the myth of the goddess Demeter, and this definition has preserved its validity despite its controversial iconography. These figures, which are believed to increase the fertility of women and make the social workforce sustainable by protecting the mother and child at the same time, have been associated with the local fertility goddess of each culture with a depiction pattern similar to the Prehistoric Period “Mother Goddesses”. In this process, the definition of “Baubo” was recommended because of the connection of the cult of Demeter-Persephone with women and childbirth, and then the new identification as Isis-Aphrodite, Omphale and Kotys acquired currency. In fact, while the iconographic content of the figures goes much earlier than the figures called “Baubo”, the protective function undertaken by the amulets for birth and afterward is as up-to-date as reminiscent of today’s traditions.

The article is devoted to the study of the patch as a stable tradition of the spiritual and material-artistic culture of the Turkic peoples. The patch is considered as a "participant" in ritual and ritual practice and manual artistic craft. The scientific novelty of the results lies in the fact that for the first time sources on the ritual and everyday practice of the Turkic peoples with the participation of the patch have been systematized. The collected material is summarized and formed as a comprehensive study. The reconstruction of the functions and the role of the patch in the ritual and daily practice of the Turkic peoples was carried out on the basis of a comparative analysis. The general and distinctive features in the artistic and technological techniques of patchwork technique are established and systematized. Ethnographic materials were collected during field research in the period 2019-2021 and introduce a set of factual sources into the history of art of the peoples of Central Asia. The findings can be used in developments in the field of ethnoculturology of the Turkic world.

Although the cultic relations of Stratonikeia and its environs, one of the cities in the interior of the Carian Region, with Egypt began in the Archaic Period, what is known on this subject is limited. As a result of the extensive archaeological investigations carried out in the northwest of the basin within the borders of Muğla Yatağan in the last 30 years, important findings that will contribute to the historical chronology of the region have been uncovered. This geography, which has hosted settlements belonging to different periods from the Chalcolithic Period to the present day, is generally clustered in the fertile valleys and slopes in the Eskihisar, Turgut, and Yeşilbagcilar regions. Stratonikeia has become one of the important centers of the region with its structures that started to be built since the 6nd century BC. The settlement and necropolis areas unearthed in and around Stratonikeia contain a multi-layered cultural heritage texture. These settlements and necropolis areas, which are generally located within the Khrysaoris Region in the Archaic Period and Idrias Region in the Classical Period, remain within the territorium of Stratonikeia. Amulets with apotropaic function, which are grave finds in the rural Stratonikeia region and represented by a few examples, belong to different types and include various forms and materials, each associated with a different deity and function. All of these amulets provide information about the beliefs, cults, and trade of the region, provide definite archaeological evidence that these relations are quite old, and show that this dissemination reached the interior and mountainous parts of Caria by various means and was respected. The subject of this study is only a part of these amulets, namely the faience scarabs recovered as burial gifts from three separate children's graves of the same level from the Degirmenderesi necropolis in the territory of Stratonikeia. These scarabs, which were mainly used as protective amulets to ward off evil, constitute a unique group of finds recorded as eastern artifacts that reached the Carian Region with the influence of Mediterranean trade. The technical characteristics, iconography, ritual contexts, and functions of the scarabs, which are dated to the 7th century BC according to their context, have been evaluated, and some possibilities about their origin have been emphasized. It is believed that these scarabs, which will contribute to the studies in the Aegean world from different angles and will take their place in the existing literature, show the stylistic characteristics of Aegean imitation productions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The following paper focuses on the role and function of symbols in magical practice. The first part explains the symbol as a semiotic term with all its fundamental features, including the necessary function and condition of ordinary communication. The next section deals with symbols that fulfill the essential role of transforming reality within the framework of magical practice. Examples of sigil magic, Tarot, and amulets explain the paradigm, which uses symbolic language as a mandatory condition for its existence and simultaneously ignores the shared awareness of the origin of the symbol as a constitutional element of its functionality. This paper demonstrates how the symbols used in everyday communication and the symbols used in magical practice are two different entities performing distinct kinds of function, and primarily that they differ in requirements for being created and functional. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Antik Tanulmanyok is the property of Akademiai Kiado and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article presents an analysis of the observation on making a profit for religious institutions and providing social support during the COVID-19 pandemic in a tropical country in Indochina. The study utilizes a descriptive approach, combining a literature review and a case study to explore the specific situation in the region. The article begins with an introduction to the concept of social marketing and then focuses on a unique form of religiously related social marketing: the production and sale of amulets. The potential benefits for religious establishments in terms of both financial gain and social support are highlighted. Furthermore, a detailed case study on ritual amulet marketing during the COVID-19 outbreak crisis is provided, shedding light on the strategies employed and the outcomes achieved. The findings suggest that social marketing by religious institutions can be a valuable advertising tool even during times of public crisis. The article concludes by emphasizing the potential of social marketing as an effective means for religious institutions to address societal needs and generate positive impacts. This research contributes to the understanding of the role of religious organizations in the promotion of social welfare and offers insights for practitioners seeking innovative approaches to navigate challenging circumstances.

Background Implantation of the left atrial appendage occluder (LAAO) has been proven to prevent stroke effectively in patients with atrial fibrillation who cannot tolerate anticoagulants. Incomplete endothelization of LAAO may cause device‐related thrombus, and currently no good image modality exists to clearly see LAAO endothelialization. We aimed to use coronary optic coherence tomography (OCT) to visualize LAAO endothelialization. Methods and Results We enrolled 14 patients (72.8±9.4 years old) undergoing pulmonary vein isolation with a preexisting LAAO implanted more than 1 year ago (5 Watchman and 9 Amulet). After pulmonary vein isolation, we did OCT via steerable sheath and coronary guiding catheter to adjust OCT probe location and injected contrast medium to visualize the LAAO surface. In vitro testing was also performed to see the bare occluder. In vitro OCT showed the surface of the bare device as an interrupted granule pattern, which included the Watchman surface polytetrafluoroethylene membrane string, Amulet disc metal strut, and inner polytetrafluoroethylene membrane string. In the implanted Watchman, OCT showed endothelialization as a smooth surface layer with noninterrupted coarser granules. In the implanted Amulet, OCT showed endothelialization as thin (early) or thick (late) endothelialization layer covering struts with OCT shadows. Among patients with Watchman, 2 showed no, 2 early, and 1 complete endothelialization. Among patients with Amulet, 2 showed no, 3 early, and 4 late endothelialization. Conclusions We demonstrated the feasibility of OCT to visualize LAAO endothelization with high resolution. Further studies are needed to determine antithrombotic regimens if incomplete endothelization is detected. A new OCT catheter may be designed specifically for LAAO.

References in ancient literary texts refer to the use of pierced teeth as amulets used for the prevention and reduction of teething pains in infants. In this paper, I explore some of the sensory aspects of this phenomenon by centralising pain as a sensory experience. I draw on a dataset of these objects from Roman Britain in order to contextualise the types and use of these objects within the Roman world. These two facets, linking the sensory experiences of teething pain to real, material objects, allows for a discussion of the lived and embodied experience of wearing this amulet in the ancient world, through which a greater appreciation of its sensory importance is gained.

Background: Dual occlusive closure mechanism (disc and lobe type), Amulet device (Abbott; a second‐generation device that has replaced Amplatzer Cardiac Plug) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2021 for percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO). However, real‐world safety data on the delivery system (Amplatzer Cardiac Plug and Amplatzer Amulet device) are lacking. Objective: We sought to assess the type of adverse events associated with the Amplatzer LAAO delivery system using the FDA Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database. Methods: A MAUDE database search was conducted on March 31, 2023, for reports received between February 2013 and March 2023 to capture all adverse events. Results: A total of 59 adverse events were reported, of which 58 were sheath‐related events, and one was a wire‐related event. The most commonly encountered issue was air embolism (19%, 11 events), followed by sheath thrombosis (13.8%, eight events, two of which were also associated with device thrombosis), kinked sheath (10.3%, six events), and sheath deformation (8.6%, five events). Patient‐related adverse events included pericardial effusion requiring pericardiocentesis (22.4%, 13 events), vascular complications (20.7%, 12 events), and device dislodgement (5.2%, three events). Conclusion: LAAO‐related adverse events are increasingly being reported using the Amplatzer LAAO delivery sheath. It is anticipated that improvements in device technology, the advent of steerable sheaths, and operator experience will minimize these complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Studies - Language & Literature is the property of Electronic Turkish Studies and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Aims Incomplete left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) due to peri-device leak (PDL) is a limitation of the therapy. The Amulet IDE trial is the largest randomized head-to-head trial comparing the Amulet and Watchman 2.5 LAAO devices with fundamentally different designs. The predictors and mechanistic factors impacting differences in PDLs within the Amulet IDE trial are assessed in the current analysis. Methods and results An independent core lab analysed all images for the presence or absence of severe PDL (>5 mm). The incidence, mechanistic factors, predictors using propensity score-matched controls, and evolution of severe PDLs through 18 months were assessed. Of the 1878 patients randomized in the trial, the Amulet occluder had significantly fewer severe PDLs than the Watchman device at 45 days (1.1 vs. 3.2%, P < 0.001) and 12 months (0.1 vs. 1.1%, P < 0.001). Off-axis deployment or missed lobes were leading mechanistic PDL factors in each device group. Larger left atrial appendage (LAA) dimensions including orifice diameter, landing zone diameter, and depth predicted severe PDL with the Watchman device, with no significant anatomical limitations noted with the Amulet occluder. Procedural and device implant predictors were found with the Amulet occluder attributed to the learning curve with the device. A majority of Watchman device severe PDLs did not resolve over time through 18 months. Conclusion The dual-occlusive Amplatzer Amulet LAA occluder provided improved LAA closure compared with the Watchman 2.5 device. Predictors and temporal observations of severe PDLs were identified in the Amulet IDE trial. Clinical trial registration https://clinicaltrials.gov Unique identifier NCT02879448. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

{AR} تستهدف هذه الورقة البحثية نشر ودراسة قطع أثرية متنوعة ضمن مجموعة الآثار المصرية بالمخزن المتحفي بتل الفراعين بكفر الشيخ، والمكتشفة بقويسنا، ومسجلة بسجل قيد آثار المنوفية (رقم 1). وتتمثل هذه الأعمال في غليون للتدخين (بايب) رقم 1120- فهل عرف المصري القديم غليون التدخين؟ - وكذلك خمسة جعارين تحمل أرقاماً من 1003-1007، وتميمتين للثالوث إست ونبت-حت وحر-با-غرد أرقام 1021، 1039. وهي قطع أثرية صغيرة الحجم تعددت المواد المصنوعة منها كالشست والحجر الجيري والفيانس والفخار. وبالرجوع للتقرير العلمي المُعد لتلك القطع من قِبل هيئة تفتيش الآثار بالمنوفية نجد أنها تؤرخ بالعصر المتأخر, وسيحاول الباحث دراسة تلك القطع لإلقاء مزيدا من الضوء عليها، مع المقارنة بنماذج مماثلة كلما أمكن ذلك. {EN} This research paper aims to study and publish miscellaneous pieces within a collection preserved at a museum store of Tell Al Faracin in Kafr El-Sheikh. These pieces were discovered in Quesna and were registered in the Register of Menoufia Antiquities No. (1).These pieces are smoking pipe No. 1120 (did the ancient Egyptian use the pipe for smoking?), five scarabs bearing numbers 1003-1007, and finally, two amulets represent the triad: Isis, Nephthys and Harpocrates, bearing numbers 1021, 1039. These artifacts are small-sized and of various materials such as Schist, Limestone, Faience, and Pottery. The scientific report prepared for these pieces by the Antiquities Inspection Authority in Menoufia dates them to the Late Period. The researcher will shed more light on these pieces with other comparable objects.

The Amulet (Abbott) left atrial appendage occluder investigational device exemption trial is the largest randomized trial evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the Amulet left atrial appendage occluder compared with the Watchman 2.5 device (Boston Scientific) through 5 years. This analysis evaluated the device effect on 3-year outcomes in the Amulet investigational device exemption trial. The medication regimen and key clinical outcomes were reported through 3 years including: 1) the composite of ischemic stroke or systemic embolism (SE); 2) the composite of all strokes, SE, or cardiovascular (CV) death; 3) major bleeding; and 4) all-cause death and CV death. A total of 1,878 patients at 108 sites were randomized. A significantly higher percentage of patients were free of oral anticoagulation usage at 3 years with Amulet (96.2%) vs Watchman (92.5%) (P < 0.01). Clinical outcomes were comparable for the composite of ischemic stroke or SE (5.0% vs 4.6%; P = 0.69); the composite of all strokes, SE, or CV death (11.1% vs 12.7%; P = 0.31); major bleeding (16.1% vs 14.7%; P = 0.46); all-cause death (14.6% vs 17.9%; P = 0.08); and CV death (6.6% vs 8.5%; P = 0.14) for Amulet and Watchman, respectively. Through 3 years, device factors (device-related thrombus or peridevice leak ≥3 mm) preceded ischemic stroke events and CV deaths more frequently in Watchman compared with Amulet patients. The Amulet occluder demonstrated continued safety and effectiveness with over 96% free of oral anticoagulation usage through 3 years in a high-risk population compared to the Watchman device. (AMPLATZER Amulet LAA Occluder Trial [Amulet IDE]; NCT02879448) [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Arkeoloji Dergisi is the property of Ege University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of TUBA-KED: Turkish Academy of Sciences, Journal of Cultural Inventory is the property of Turkish Academy of Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study supplements a previous paper that we published in this periodical: The Tyszkiewicz Amulet, a Chalcedony Pendant Inscribed with an Incantation on Thorn Bush: Notes on an Early Sumerian Kultmittelbeschwörung, AoF 46, 174–185. It compares the Tyszkiewicz amulet to another similar amulet formerly kept in the de Serres Collection and proposes that the two objects originate from the same workshop. Although the de Serres amulet bears a different incantation from the Udug-ḫul series, the two amulets are strikingly similar with regard to physical as well as textual aspects, the latter including the incorporation of certain 'zi-litany' sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article continues the series of presentations of some of the unpublished (in major part) Egyptian artifacts in the collections of the "Vasile Pârvan" Institute of Archaeology of Bucharest, Romania. Focused on avian artifacts with funerary destination and context, the study will show the relationship between various avian species, the Egyptian assigned symbols, the gods they embodied, the typology, materials, and the techniques used to represent them as symbols for protection of the deceased in the afterlife. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present contribution is the editio princeps of pBM EA 10669, of which, despite its very interesting content, no notice has been taken thus far. The papyrus bears a text about a nine-headed figure with the main head in the form of a human being. Various passages inscribed on the papyrus can be paralleled directly with other texts from Egypt and thus offer an informative insight into the religious history of multi-headed beings, particularly during the Late Period in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrythmia and it is linked to an increased risk of stroke. Even if anticoagulation therapy reduces the rate of stroke the benefits of this therapy have to be balanced with the increased risk of hemorrhagic event. Left atrial appendage closure is a valid alternative to long-term anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation and high hemorrhagic risk. Actually new devices with different features have been tested and introduced progressively in the clinical practice. Improvements in preprocedural imaging evaluation and the learning curve of the operators led to percutaneous left atrial appendage closure a safe and effective procedure. A good knowledge of different devices and the technique of implant is necessary for optimization percutaneous left atrial appendage closure and the reduction of complications during the acute phase and follow up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subject of this study is a foot-shaped amulet stamp made of stone found in a pithos tomb in the cemetery area dated to the Early Bronze Age I Period in Eskişehir/Küllüoba. This amulet, which has a thorn-leaved plant motif on the stamp surface, is dated to the beginning of the Early Bronze Age. There is no data on the administrative and bureaucratic stsystem in the settlement, so the control and control mechanism has not yet been formed. Aforementioned amulet stamp is important in terms of being the earliest known example of this type in Anatolia. In this study, the amulet has been discussed in terms of its form, decoration, context and function and has been dated both according to relative chronology and according to the results of absolute dating methods. In addition, it has been tried to be positioned by comparing it with similar examples in Anatolia. The intended use, motifs and interconnections of these objects, which are used with different functions such as stamps, seals and amulets, are also evaluated by considering the examples from different time periods in the Levant, Mesopotamia, Anatolia, Aegean World and Egypt in terms of chronology and interregional communication networks. The example of Küllüoba, which is the earliest known example in Anatolia so far, constitutes important data in terms of the relations of central and western Anatolia with the southern regions, especially in the context of the Levant and Northern Syria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through an investigation of two recently discovered paper sheets of the Incantation of Wish-Fulfillment from the Silla kingdom, this paper reveals that early Korea had more diverse forms of dhāraṇī practices than previously assumed. Through analyses of these incantation sheets, this paper contributes toward filling the gap in our current understanding of the material practice pertaining to the Incantation of Wish-Fulfillment of medieval East Asia. Previously, all known traces of material dhāraṇīs from early Korea, with just a few exceptions, were related to the Sūtra of the Pure Light Incantation enshrined in the relic crypts of pagodas—a practice that has little connection to contemporaneous Chinese dhāraṇī practice. However, the newly discovered Incantation of Wish-Fulfillment sheets, whose date this paper infers to be between the eighth and ninth century, show that Unified Silla had a dhāraṇī practice closely linked to coeval Chinese practice. The Incantation of Wish-Fulfillment sheets from Silla show the modification and continuation of Chinese dhāraṇī practice. Unlike the Chinese amulet sheets of the Incantation of Wish-Fulfillment that were buried in tombs, the Silla amulet sheets were likely enshrined in one of the pagodas erected on Mount Nam in Silla's capital. At the same time, they were placed in the pagoda to wish for good afterlives of the soldiers who died at the battle, suggesting that they had a mortuary function similar to those buried in Chinese tombs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The left atrial appendage (LAA) sealing properties of the Amplatzer Amulet and Watchman FLX devices were compared using cardiac computed tomography (CT) follow-up. Methods: Single-center cohort study of patients undergoing LAAO between 2017 and 2020. Two consecutive cohorts were enrolled, one treated with the Amplatzer Amulet (n = 150) up till 2019, and a second cohort treated with the Watchman FLX (n = 150) device from 2019. Cardiac CT was performed 2 months postprocedure. The primary outcome was complete LAA occlusion defined as no visible peri-device leak (PDL) and absence of contrast patency in the distal LAA. Secondary outcomes included PDL, contrast patency without visible PDL, PDL area, and periprocedural complications. Results: Complete occlusion was achieved in 39 (30.5%) of the Amulet group, compared to 89 (71.8%) of the FLX group, p < 0.001. A PDL at the Amulet disc was present in 65 (50.8%), at the lobe in 16 (12.5%), and at both the disc and lobe in 13 (10.2%). For FLX, a PDL was present in 20 (16.1%). Contrast patency without visible PDL was observed in 24 (18.8%) and 15 (12.1%) of the Amulet and FLX group, respectively. The PDL area at the Amulet mid-lobe was 92 mm2 (59–158) and 32 mm2 (IQR 28–96) for FLX, p = 0.019. Device-related thrombosis occurred in 1 (0.7%) and 2 (1.3%), respectively (p = 0.99), with periprocedural adverse events occurring in 6 (4%) and 8 (5.3%) of the Amulet and FLX group (p = 0.79). Conclusion: Complete LAA occlusion was achieved in a significantly higher proportion treated with the Watchman FLX compared to the Amulet device. PDL was smaller with the FLX than the Amulet. Conceptual device design differences make interpretation of results complex, and additional studies with clinical outcomes are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Purpose: In patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), the left atrial appendage occluder (LAAO) is an alternative treatment for stroke prevention. However, the long-term outcomes in Asia was generally unknown. Methods and Results: This was a retrospective longitudinal study and a total of 124 patients with contraindications to oral anticoagulants or stroke despite under anticoagulants had been enrolled since 2013. Primary efficacy was defined as any type of stroke/systemic embolization and adverse event as any procedure or anti-thrombotic related complications. Twelve patients were excluded due to thrombus in the LAA or oversize LAA. Watchman was successfully implanted in 55 patients (98%) and ACP/Amulet also 55 patients (98%). During follow-up, the ischemic stroke rate was 1.9 in the Watchman and 1.4 per 100 patient-year in the ACP/Amulet group. There were 2 Watchman patients experiencing intracranial hemorrhage. Device-related thrombus (DRT) was noted in 3 patients (2.7%).There was no patient with peri-device lead ≧5 mm. In those patients receiving only local anesthesia, the follow-up echocardiography showed no significant peri-device leak, malposition of LAAO and DRT. Conclusion: This long-term follow-up study shows that percutaneous closure of LAA is a safe and technically feasible procedure with satisfactory outcomes in Asia. The procedure success rate, efficacy and adverse event were similar to those reported in the Caucasian populations.

Umbilical cord blood stem cells can be extracted and collected in cord blood banks, potentially to be used for stem cell transplants in the case of blood and related disorders. But some women in Tamil Nadu store dried cord tissue in an amulet to protect their children from harm and to restore health when required. I trace the sakthi (power) of the amulet and its contents by following puberty rites, pre-delivery rituals and food consumed, which the pregnant mother embodies, eventually to be reproduced in an amulet. What makes the amulet and its contents medicine and a symbol of regeneration, just like cord blood stem cells? Why is the amulet a preferred mode of storing cord tissue in Chennai? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Left atrial appendage occlusion is not inferior to oral anticoagulants in the prevention of stroke in several randomized controlled trials. However, the clinical efficacy and safety comparison of the Watchman and amplatzer cardiac plug (ACP)/Amulet devices for percutaneous left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation was controversial. A database search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Clinicaltrials.gov for trials that compared Watchman device vs ACP/Amulet device. The effective outcomes were stroke and systemic embolism. Safety outcomes were all‐cause death, cardiovascular death, and major bleeding. Device‐related complications included device‐related thrombus (DRT), peri‐device leaks (PDL > 5 mm). A total of 19 articles involving 6224 patients were included in the present study. The Watchman and ACP/Amulet groups comprised 3267 and 2957 patients, respectively. No statistically significant differences were detected in the stroke (odd ratio [OR]:1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92−1.67, p =.17, I2 = 0), systemic embolism (OR:1.10, 95% CI: 0.51−2.35, p =.81, I2 = 0%), all‐cause death (OR:0.97, 95% CI: 0.80−1.18, p =.77, I2 = 1%), cardiogenic death (OR:0.99, 95% CI: 0.77−1.29, p =.96, I2 = 0%), major bleeding (OR:1.18, 95% CI: 0.98−1.43, p =.08, I2 = 25%). DRT (OR:1.48, 95% CI: 1.06−2.06, p =.02, I2 = 0%) and PDL > 5 mm (OR:2.57, 95% CI: 1.63−4.04, p <.0001, I2 = 0%) were significantly lower in ACP/Amulet group compared to Watchman group. The effective and safety outcomes were comparable between two groups. ACP/Amulet group had significantly lower rates of DRT and PDL > 5 mm than Watchman group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Historia y Sociedad (01218417) is the property of Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Facultad de Ciencias Humanas y Economicas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Magazine General Union of Arab Archaeologists is the property of General Union of Arab Archaeologists and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Arkhaia Anatolika: The Journal of Anatolian Archaeological Studies is the property of Arkhaia Anatolika and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The presented group of late Republican to early Imperial intagli consists of round layered stones (sardonyx, cornelian onyx) with a flat reverse side, which are strongly convex on the front side. Their horizontally stacked and differently coloured plies are sanded on the front to form concentric rings around a dark centre. The motif incised in this centre looks like an eidolon in the pupil of a 'fisheye'. Most of these motifs can be interpreted against the background of Augustan love poetry. It is possible that gems of this kind were gifts of love and, due to their striking design as an eye, also had an apotropaic function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures Dr Rao has served as a consultant for Medtronic, Abbot, and Boston Scientific. All other authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose.

Background: Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is frequent alternative for stroke prophylaxis in patients for whom oral anticoagulation is contraindicated. Pulmonary artery injury (PAI) is a feared yet rare complication of endocardial LAAC, but its surrounding literature is scarce., Objectives: The aim of the current study was to review prior PAI published reports and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database to understand evidence and mechanisms of PAI after LAAC., Methods: A systematic review was conducted of the literature and MAUDE database for previously reported cases of PAI, and cases were reviewed for patient characteristics and outcomes. In addition, we identify risks and review our strategies to avoid this injury., Results: Thirty-six cases (16 case reports and 20 MAUDE reports) of PAI were found. These patients had a mean age of 73.6 ± 8.2 years with a median CHA 2 DS 2 VASC score of 5 (Q1-Q3: 3-6). Most commonly, LAAC associated with PAI involved a dual-seal (75%) followed by lobular occlusive devices (19.4%); the device was unspecified in 2.8% of cases. PAI commonly presented postprocedurally, either within the first 24 hours (50%) or beyond (38.9%), with cardiac tamponade (61.1%) or cardiac arrest (19.4%). Overall, 52.8% required surgery with or without antecedent pericardiocentesis, and 16.7% were managed with pericardiocentesis. PAI was associated with a high mortality rate (ie, 33.3%). Unfortunately, no specific cardiac imaging or procedural details to predict PAI were noted in the reports., Conclusions: Presentation of PAI after LAAC can occur immediately following the procedure or be delayed. Thus, the threshold for suspicion, especially with rapid and hemodynamically significant pericardial effusion, after LAAC should be low., Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures Dr Garg is a consultant for Biosense Webster, Zoll, Kestra, and Biotronik. Dr Nair is a consultant on the Advisory Board for Abbott Medical, Boston Scientific, Medtronic, and Biosense Webster; and a consultant for Adagio, TeraRecon, and Siemens. Dr Lakkireddy is a consultant for Abbott Vascular, Biotronik, Biosense Webster, Medtronic, Boston Scientific, AtriCure, Acutus, and Northeast Scientific. All other authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Fascinum, magični falus, ni le najpogostejše sredstvo za odvračanje zlonosnega pogleda in zavisti, ampak se tudi pojavlja v najrazličnejših oblikah. Tako je tudi na Ptuju, kjer ga srečujemo v raznih izvedbah in kombinacijah - od amuletov in nakita, do upodobitev na uporabnih predmetih in kipih. Falusi so na naštetih predmetih varovali zelo različne osebe, stvari in prostore: otroke, konje in prevozna sredstva, pečat ali zapečateno vsebino, uporabne predmete, bivališča in njihove prebivalce, delavnice in njihove izdelke, prostor in skupnost. Kot osebo varovalo se pojavljajo v obliki različnih amuletov, ki so lahko bili samostojni obeski, lik znotraj enega predmeta ali za predmet znotraj niza večih (crepundia). Med materiali, iz katerih so izdelani, so na Ptuju zaenkrat zastopani takšni, ki jim je bila zanesljivo (zlato, jantar) oziroma verjetno (fajansa) pripisana posebna moč. Po grobnih kontekstih sodeč so jih v Petovijoni nosili predvsem otroci. Iz brona so preostali ptujski amuleti različnih oblik, ki jih lahko verjetno povezujemo z zaščito konja, voza ali prostora. S falusom sta okrašena tudi dva bronasta predmeta, namenjena praktični uporabi. V tem primeru predstavlja falus dodatno varovalo. Na kamnitih spomenikih s falusom gre za sinkretizem Terminusa in Priapa. Herma ter oba reliefa so slogovno sicer različni, falus na njih pa predstavlja tako življenjsko energijo in rodovitnost kot obrambno silo, ki varuje mejo/območje in preganja škodljivce vseh vrst, vključno z zavistneži. Keramični kipec sodi med podobe, ki so z grotesknostjo in faličnostjo ščitile posebej ranljive stanove in obrti. Podobnemu kipcu je lahko pripadal tudi odlomljen keramični falus. Oba predmeta sta bila odkrita na območju lončarske delavnice. Za posodico s falusom zaenkrat ne moremo reči ničesar določenega, razen da je verjetno tudi pri tej falus vsaj deloma apotropejske narave. Poreklo teh predmetov je podobno raznoliko kot predmeti sami. Gotovo so nekatere izdelali domači obrtniki, opazno eksotični izdelki pa so prihajali iz Italije in Akvileje (jantarni amuleti, krilati obesek), iz vzhodnega Sredozemlja (fajansni), iz zahodnih provinc (pečatna škatlica). Datiramo jih lahko med prvo in tretje stoletje. Dokaj jasno zamejeni so amuleti v nizih, ki so značilni za prvo ali začetek drugega stoletja, podobno velja za obeske s konjske oprave in krilati tintinabulum.

Peridevice leak (PDL) is a limitation of left atrial appendage occlusion. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of and outcomes associated with PDL in the Amulet IDE (AMPLATZER™ Amulet™ LAA Occluder Trial) randomized controlled trial. Patients with atrial fibrillation at increased stroke risk were randomly assigned to undergo either Amulet (dual occlusive mechanism) or Watchman 2.5 (single occlusive mechanism) device implantation. Transesophageal echocardiography was performed at 45 days and 12 months postprocedure. Clinically significant PDL was defined as ≥3 mm. The primary endpoint was ischemic stroke or systemic embolism, and the secondary endpoint was stroke, systemic embolism, or cardiovascular death. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate 18-month cumulative event rates landmarked at day 45 postprocedure. A total of 1,593 patients underwent successful left atrial appendage occlusion and had an evaluable transesophageal echocardiographic studies at 45 days. The dual–occlusive mechanism device provided superior closure (defined as leak <3 mm) compared with the single–occlusive mechanism device at 45 days (88.9% vs 74.1%; P < 0.01) and 12 months (90.5% vs. 78.3%; P < 0.01). Through 18 months, PDL was associated with a higher, but not statistically significant, risk for the primary endpoint (3.6% vs 1.8%; adjusted HR: 1.98; 95% CI: 0.93-4.19; P = 0.07) and a statistically significantly higher risk for the secondary endpoint (8.1% vs. 4.7%; adjusted HR: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.02-2.69; P = 0.04). The dual–occlusive mechanism device provided superior closure compared with the single–occlusive mechanism device at both 45 days and 1 year postprocedure. PDL ≥3 mm was associated with a significantly increased 18-month risk for the composite of stroke, systemic embolism, or cardiovascular death. Completeness of closure of the left atrial appendage has important implications for patient outcomes. (AMPLATZER™ Amulet™ LAA Occluder Trial [Amulet IDE]; NCT02879448) [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) has emerged as a reasonable alternative to oral anticoagulation in a selective group of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). While women are known to have higher risk of AF-related stroke, the impact of sex differences on the clinical outcomes of LAAO has not been well-studied.Objective: We sought to perform a meta-analysis evaluating sex differences on the outcomes of patients undergoing LAAO.Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases (from inception to October 2021) for studies evaluating the impact of sex difference on LAAO procedural outcomes. We used a random-effects model to calculate risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). In-hospital all-cause mortality and ischemic stroke were the primary endpoints. In-hospital pericardial effusion/cardiac tamponade, major bleeding, technical success, device-related thrombus, and hospital length of stay were secondary outcomes.Results: A total of 5 studies with 54,754 patients were included, of whom 22,461 (41%) were females. Female sex was associated with higher rates of in-hospital all-cause mortality (RR 2.18; 95% CI 1.46-3.26; P = 0.0001) and in-hospital ischemic stroke (RR 1.67; 95% CI 1.06-2.61; P = 0.03) when compared with males. Females had higher rates of in-hospital major bleeding (RR 1.93; 95% CI 1.40-2.67; P < 0.0001) and hospital length of stay >1 day (RR 1.38; 95% CI 1.33-1.45; P < 0.00001). There were no differences between females and males in terms of technical success (RR 1.00; 95% CI 1.00-1.00; P = 1.00) and device-related thrombus and (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.31-2.82; P = 0.91).Conclusion: Women are more likely to experience worse periprocedural outcomes with longer hospital stay after LAA closure. Further efforts are needed to increase the participation of women in clinical studies and to assess these differences to properly address the discrepancy in outcomes between men and women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently receiving Food and Drug Administration approval, the Amplatzer Amulet™ left atrial appendage occluder device (Abbott Medical Inc.) provides a dual seal mechanism alternative to the commercially available Watchman FLX or Watchman 2.5 device for embolic stroke prevention in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. This step‐by‐step review will cover patient selection, preprocedure imaging assessment, device sizing, device preparation, implant target position assessment, implant technique and troubleshooting, and immediate postimplant follow‐up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/purpose: In patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), the left atrial appendage occluder (LAAO) is an alternative treatment for stroke prevention. However, the long-term outcomes in Asia was generally unknown.Methods and Results: This was a retrospective longitudinal study and a total of 124 patients with contraindications to oral anticoagulants or stroke despite under anticoagulants had been enrolled since 2013. Primary efficacy was defined as any type of stroke/systemic embolization and adverse event as any procedure or anti-thrombotic related complications. Twelve patients were excluded due to thrombus in the LAA or oversize LAA. Watchman was successfully implanted in 55 patients (98%) and ACP/Amulet also 55 patients (98%). During follow-up, the ischemic stroke rate was 1.9 in the Watchman and 1.4 per 100 patient-year in the ACP/Amulet group. There were 2 Watchman patients experiencing intracranial hemorrhage. Device-related thrombus (DRT) was noted in 3 patients (2.7%).There was no patient with peri-device lead ≧5 mm. In those patients receiving only local anesthesia, the follow-up echocardiography showed no significant peri-device leak, malposition of LAAO and DRT.Conclusion: This long-term follow-up study shows that percutaneous closure of LAA is a safe and technically feasible procedure with satisfactory outcomes in Asia. The procedure success rate, efficacy and adverse event were similar to those reported in the Caucasian populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Left atrial (LA) strain (S) and S rate (SR) analysis by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) is a novel way of LA function assessment. We aimed to assess the effects of left atrial appendage occlusion with Amulet device on LA function using 2D-STE. Methods: LA function parameters were calculated from apical two and four-chamber view with the reference point set at QRS, using 2D-STE.LA emptying fraction (LAEF), LA expansion index (LAEI), Ss, and SRs during ventricular systole represent LA reservoir function. Passive emptying fraction (EFe), Se, and SRe during early ventricular diastole represent LA conduit function. Active emptying fraction (EFa), S a, and SRa during atrial contraction represent LA booster function. Results: 54 patients were included in the study, mean age was 76.94±5.9 years and 58% were males. Mean CHADS2VASc2 and HAS-BLED scores were 5.2±1.9 and 4.1±1.3, respectively. There was significant improvement in conduit function [post 30.9±8.7 vs. pre 23.6±13.9 (p=0.03)], reservoir function [post 107.3±127.2 vs pre 62.7±29.8 (p=0.02), and booster function [post 26.5±12.9 vs pre 16.6±09.1 (p=0.02)]. Similarly, a significant improvement was demonstrated in 'strain in early ventricular diastole [post 9.98±4.4 vs pre 5.49±4.3; p=0.02]', 'strain in atrial contraction phase [post 10.4±2.96 vs pre 8.6±4.7; p=0.048)]' and 'strain rate in atrial contraction phase [post - 0.68 ± 0.27 vs pre - 0.26 ± 0.68; p= 0.01)]'. Conclusions: LAAO using Amulet can significantly improve the LA volumetric indices along with the conduit and reservoir function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]