bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landscape of Serverless Computing Technology and IoT Tools in the IT Sectors
Authors: Dhanya D. , Raja M. Arun Manicka , Shaik Khasimbee , Sharmila L. , Shelke Maya P. , Gokul S.B.
Published: April 2024

This chapter delves into the challenges of securing sensitive data and systems in the digital landscape, focusing on serverless computing, IoT, and authentication protocols. It discusses best practices for implementing security measures in serverless architectures, including encryption, access control, and monitoring. The rise of IoT devices has revolutionized industries by enabling real-time data collection and analysis, but also presents a significant cyber threat surface. To secure IoT ecosystems, strategies include device authentication, encryption, and intrusion detection systems. Authentication protocols like multi-factor authentication, biometrics, and blockchain-based solutions are crucial. Understanding serverless computing, IoT security, and authentication protocols is essential for businesses to proactively address security gaps and safeguard assets in an evolving threat landscape.
The Intersection Between Accounting, Sustainability, and AI
Authors: Tavares Maria C. , Vale José
Published: April 2024

Through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis, this chapter aims to explore the intersection between accounting, sustainability, and artificial intelligence (AI), examining the temporal evolution of publications in the field of business, management and accounting. Trends, emerging themes, and knowledge gaps are identified, providing a panoramic view of the current research landscape. The results reveal a growing convergence between accounting, sustainability, and AI, indicating a growing interest in these domains when considered as a whole. They also show that most studies are co-authored and have an article-type nature. This chapter contributes to the knowledge and understanding of the scientific production that crosses the area of accounting for sustainability and AI, towards the Sustainable Development Goals. It offers valuable insights for academics, providing a solid understanding of research streams and promising future directions at the intersection of accounting, sustainability, and AI. It also guides practitioners in decision-making and policy formulation.
How Artificial Intelligence Can Help Accounting in Information Management
Authors: Rosário Albérico Travassos
Published: April 2024

Artificial intelligence can greatly assist accounting professionals in information management, streamlining processes, and improving overall efficiency. AI-powered software can automate data entry tasks by extracting relevant information from documents, such as invoices, receipts, and bank statements. AI algorithms can analyze financial data and identify patterns or anomalies indicative of fraud or financial irregularities. AI can analyze historical financial data and market trends to provide predictive insights, helping businesses anticipate future financial challenges and opportunities. Human accountants will continue to play a vital role in interpreting AI-generated insights, making strategic decisions, and maintaining a human touch in client interactions. Based on the above, it is intended to systematically review the bibliometric literature on how artificial intelligence can help accounting in information management using the Scopus database to analyse 77 academic and/or scientific documents
Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain
Authors: Barbosa Diogo , Serra Sara , Novais João
Published: April 2024

This study aims to assess the impacts that cryptocurrencies and blockchain have on financial accounting and auditing through eight interviews. The results allowed the authors to conclude that cryptocurrencies are considered cryptoassets, which can be classified in different ways, but above all, as inventories and intangible assets. Respondents believe that cryptocurrencies will have an impact on auditing, triggering a dematerialization of paper in its various stages. Therefore, the auditor will spend less time collecting and verifying information, focusing on activities with greater risk and complexity. It will also be possible to carry out an audit in real time and on the entire population. Regarding audit risk, accounting and auditing standards respond indirectly to the topic, yet the risk is considered high for most auditors, as they did not deepen their knowledge on the topic. Despite limitations, such as sample size, this study contributes to understanding the impact of cryptocurrencies on financial accounting and auditing in Portugal, being a pioneer in this field.
Influence of Artificial Intelligence on Auditing
Authors: Silva Lurdes , Serra Sara , Barbosa Eva
Published: April 2024

The theme of artificial intelligence has sparked significant discussion and interest across all fields, and auditing is no exception. Therefore, this study aims to assess the perceptions of auditing professionals regarding the influence of artificial intelligence in auditing. For this, interviews were conducted with 14 auditing professionals. The results demonstrate that despite the current limited presence of artificial intelligence in auditing, there is a perception that its implementation will be inevitable. It is also concluded that the primary effect of using artificial intelligence in auditing is enhancing audit process efficiency. This study allows the authors to foresee the paradigm shift in auditing, constituting an essential contribution to academia, but essentially, to professional auditing bodies, in defining their change strategy.
New Challenges for the Accounting Profession in the Era of AI and Sustainable Development
Authors: Herath Siriyama Kanthi , Herath Laksitha Maheshi
Published: April 2024

The challenges that the accounting sector is facing in the modern era of globalization, digital technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) are addressed in this chapter. The authors achieve this by prioritizing social sustainability. One of the most important technological advancements that have drastically changed society is globalization. Additionally covered in this chapter are the significance of non-financial reporting and data quality, strategies for integrating sustainability within company operations, and management and governance ideals that promote sustainable development.
Assimilation of Triple Entry Accounting Framework Amidst Disruptive Technologies in Industrial Revolutions 5.0
Authors: Bhatt Vyomkesh , Singh Ram , Tripathi Vikas
Published: April 2024

Today's worldwide organizations' accounting expectations for substantial value go beyond the early success stories of implementing advanced levels of ERP accounting, internet accounting, spreadsheets, and others. Accounting frameworks like the resource-event-agent (REA) system, triple-entry accounting (TEA), and blockchain have been developed to improve upon the traditional double-entry method. The study looks at and relies on the narrative investigation of the previous studies. This study proposes a novel framework that improves the effectiveness, openness, and safety of financial transactions using blockchain technology and makes a significant contribution to the developing area of blockchain-based accounting. Highlighted in this research are the REA structure's contributions to the TEA framework, a review of studies on the integration of REAs and TEAs with blockchain, and the advantages and potential framework for the implementation of TEA.
Contribution of Dematerialization to Tax Control Performance
Authors: Attak El Houssain
Published: April 2024

Morocco heavily relies on tax revenues; however, a persistent 6.7% GDP gap between potential and actual tax revenues (2013-2017) highlights the challenge of widespread tax fraud. With a growing taxpayer base and a limited number of tax inspectors, Morocco faces a structural deficit in tax control. In response, a comprehensive digital transformation of tax processes was initiated. This chapter delves into the profound impact of digitalization on tax control through lexicometric analysis on interviews conducted with tax inspectors, facilitated by the IRAMUTEQ software. The research findings reveal a substantial enhancement in the performance of tax control. Despite this positive shift, the study underscores potential impediments that require a coordinated effort from all stakeholders involved. Beyond offering practical insights for authorities, this research contributes valuable lessons for developing nations grappling with the multifaceted challenges of revenue collection in the digital age concerning the pivotal role of digitalization in modernizing tax control practices.
Revisiting the Key Components of Creativity Through Generative AI
Authors: Güzelci Orkan Zeynel , Karadag Ilker
Published: April 2024

Today, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications have resulted in its widespread use in creative industries. The goal of this study is to investigate the relationship between artificial intelligence and creativity through the perspective of Generative AI (GenAI) utilized in these industries. To perform this investigation, the study first introduces the concepts of creativity and its key components, along with GenAI and AI creativity. The study's analysis is founded on 14 key components of creativity identified in the previous literature. In the analysis section, the study examines whether these key components are present in today's GenAI tools, drawing on current debates about AI and AI-based applications. Additionally, the capabilities, limitations, and challenges of GenAI are investigated for each key component. In the discussion section, the study makes projections about potential problems that may be encountered when using GenAI and discusses possible redefinitions of key components in the future.
Generative AI for Text to Image
Authors: Shah Shrishti , Tadepalli Shubhasri , Vaddiparthi Lalitha Tanmai , Ansari Nishat Afshan , Bhurane Ankit A.
Published: April 2024

Text-to-image (TTI) synthesis models represent a creative approach in the realm of artificial intelligence, specifically designed to transform textual input into visually realistic images. The essence of TTI generation lies in its ability to harness the power of language and convert it seamlessly into visually compelling content, showcasing creative image synthesis. Initially using GANs and transformers, text-to-image generation evolved with diffusion models introducing noise. Integration with large models, TTI models now produce results near-real images. Breakthroughs like ControlNet and 3D object synthesis redefine possibilities. Editing text or images adds versatile dimensions, showcasing generative technologies' transformative capabilities. The survey explores scaling TTI models, focusing on various descriptions and ControlNet's role. The authors categorize literature, offer nuanced comparisons, and discuss applications. Looking ahead, they foresee TTI's potential for productivity enhancements, especially in the Metaverse era, and expansion into intricate tasks like video and 3D generation.
The Human-Machine Nexus With Art-Making Generative AIs
Authors: Bhambri Pankaj , Khang Alex
Published: April 2024

The chapter delves into the dynamic interplay between human creativity and artificial intelligence, exploring the transformative landscape of art creation facilitated by generative AI tools. As the realms of technology and artistic expression converge, this chapter navigates the intricate relationship between human artists and machine-generated algorithms. It scrutinizes how generative AI tools serve not as replacements for human ingenuity but as collaborators, augmenting the creative process and challenging conventional notions of authorship in the realm of art. Through a comprehensive examination of case studies and examples, the chapter illustrates the symbiotic fusion of human intuition, emotion, and conceptualization with the computational capabilities of AI, shedding light on the profound implications for the future of artistic endeavors.
Shaping Highly Intelligent Internet of Things (IoT) and Wireless Sensors for Smart Cities
Authors: Singh Bhupinder , Jain Vishal , Kaunert Christian , Vig Komal
Published: April 2024

The highly intelligent internet of things (IoT) and wireless sensor technologies are set to reshape the directions of safe and intelligent parking and transportation in the dynamic field of urban development. Sustainable and effective transportation solutions are critical as cities struggle with the effects of growing populations and rising urbanization. Sustainability is the key to the transportation of the future as the development of electric mobility solutions and environmentally friendly transportation choices is facilitated by highly intelligent IoT. By reducing the negative effects of transportation systems on the environment, this path hopes to promote a greener and more sustainable urban environment. So, tackling issues with privacy and cybersecurity, this trajectory seeks to increase confidence in the accuracy and privacy of data. This chapter explores how these technologies are developing and how they will affect urban transportation in the future to solve the difficulties of contemporary urban life, a focus is put on security measures, real-time data analytics and sustainable practices.
Blockchain's Motivation for IoT-Enabled Smart City
Authors: Shafik Wasswa , Kalinaki Kassim , Zakari Rufai Yusuf
Published: April 2024

This study examines the fusion of blockchain technology with the internet of things (IoT) in smart cities, exploring how Blockchain's traits like immutability, decentralization, and consensus can address smart cities' concerns. It scrutinizes IoT's applications in smart cities like traffic management and waste control, highlighting data's critical role. It accentuates blockchain's significance in device authentication, securing data integrity, and transactions in a decentralized network. Examining some case studies, it vitrines the benefits of integrating blockchain in smart cities such as optimized operations, enhanced security, and participant trust and confidence. Finally, it demonstrates privacy and security bottlenecks, including energy consumption, scalability, and regulations, emphasizing the need for solutions to overcome these challenges.
Paradigm of the Development Studies
Authors: Dharmasiri Lal Mervin
Published: April 2024

We live in an age of relatively and absolutely socio-economic, political, cultural and environmental major global challenges, both within nations and within countries. Therefore Development Studies are crucial in studying and researching relative issues thereby solving global problems based on everyday realities in people's lives, as well as formulating policies and plans for them. It not only enables us to understand the world, but also to provide a better quality of life for the world community. To this end, the subject of Development Studies has been introduced to address the need for a systematic and holistic approach concerning the subject area where at present the subject is being developed systematically. The centralized question of this study is whether this subject can be developed as a mono-disciplinary?. The main objective of this article is to provide an analysis of what Development Study is all about, its origins, how the field is structured and the scope of the field. It also presents a new conceptual framework for the field of Development Studies. Interviews with some of the leading scholars and secondary data sources on the subject has enabled in gathering information pertaining to the study.Development Studies can be identified as a subject that is strongly based on the four subject areas of Economics, Geography, Sociology and Political Science and is made up of a combination of these subjects. Hence in this context Development Studies can be interpreted as a subject which is based upon literary research and accumulated knowledge. “Development Studies is a dynamic, multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary field in which different communities study development approaches, practices, policies and theories that are active and functional for the betterment of the social system”. Nevertheless we can identify three key factors that have influenced the perspective of this subject context over time. These are: The identification of new development strategies through the failure of the development strategies adopted by developing countries, Post-modernist critique of the traditional ideologies of development by the social sciences, and The incorporation of new ideas, ideologies and theories with the rise of globalization. Hence, it can be concluded that the paradigm of the subject of Development Studies is changing from time to time. And It should also be noted that there are very few opportunities for Development Studies to grow as a single field in the future.
Comparison of broth microdilution and E-test for susceptibility of MRSA to vancomycin
Authors: Hiflan F. S. , Abeygoonawardena H. , Karawgoda R. A. , Chandrasiri N. S. , Balasuriya A. , Senanayake N. P.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Healthcare-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) developed soon after the introduction of methicillin. These bacteria have shown resistance to multiple drugs and therefore vancomycin became the antibiotic of choice for treatment of MRSA infections. Vancomycin is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. This study aimed to compare broth microdilution (BMD) and E-test in determining vancomycin minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against MRSA.Methods: A total of 30 clinical isolates of MRSA were acquired from Colombo South Teaching Hospital, Sri Lanka. These MRSA strains were identified by cefoxitin disk diffusion and the vancomycin MIC was determined through BMD and E-test. The Kruskal-Wallis test was applied to test if the samples originated from the same distribution with post hoc determination of the correlation between methods using the Mann-Whitney U test.Results: All 30 MRSA isolates were 100% vancomycin susceptible (≤2 μg/mL) irrespective of methodology, according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) established breakpoints. However, the E-test MIC values were 1 to 2 dilutions higher than those of BMD. A statistically significant difference between vancomycin MICs of BMD and E-test (p = <0.00001) was calculated which indicated a difference in accuracy.Conclusion: Due to cost, convenience, and the ability to detect vancomycin intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA), exploring the possibility of using E-test as an alternative to BMD is worthwhile.
Renal cell carcinoma invading the descending colon
Authors: Reyaz F. S. , Lelwala S. K. W.
Published: April 2024

No abstract available
Intraoperative visualization of biliary anatomy using Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence in a Sri Lankan patient cohort
Authors: Kumarage S. K. , Lakshani D. H. J. P. U. , Pinto M. D. P. , Chandrasinghe P. C.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Bile duct injury (BDI) is a complication with high morbidity, associated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). The risk of BDI can be reduced by accurate visualization of the biliary tree with the use of indocyanine green fluorescence (ICG). This study describes the use of this non-invasive technique in a cohort of Sri Lankan patients to visualize the biliary anatomy intraoperatively.Method: A total of 121 consecutive patients undergoing LC were included. All received 5 mg of ICG intravenously, 30 minutes prior to induction of anesthesia. The Stryker 1588 laparoscope was used to visualize the anatomical landmarks, both pre and post-dissection of the Calot's triangle, using visible light and near-infrared imaging (NIR).Result: In 121 patients (female - 64.5%, median age - 42 years; range of 18-82) included in the study, biliary colic was the commonest indication (70%) for LC. ICG fluorescence resulted in significantly better visualization of the extrahepatic biliary tract (p=<0.001), both pre-dissection (95%CI = 91.7% [85.3%-96.0%]) and post-dissection (95% CI=71.1% [62.1%-79.0%]) of the Calot's triangle. Furthermore, the hepatic ducts were only visualized with ICG.Visualization of the Cystic duct common bile duct junction (CDCBDJ) improved from 6% to 88% (P<0.001) predissection with ICG. Fluorescence enabled the visualization of CDCBDJ post-dissection in all cases compared to 54% without it (P<0.001). ICG enhanced visualization of the Common bile duct (CBD) from 34% to 88% (P<0.001) predissection and 100% visibility post-dissection compared to 62% under visible light (P<0.001). No adverse effects of ICG or bile duct injuries were reported during the study.Conclusion: The use of ICG during LC significantly enhanced the identification of biliary landmarks in this cohort. Identification of anatomy can help reduce inadvertent BDI. This safe and effective modality may be considered a routine step in LC.
Fish bone migration through a sigmoid colon diverticulum causing an anterior abdominal wall abscess
Authors: Ekanayaka E. M. M. , Gunasekara K. , Fernando R. , Chandrasinghe P. C. , Kumarage S.
Published: April 2024

No abstract available
Efficacy of Oesophageal self expandable metal stent placement for palliation of dysphagia in inoperable oesophageal cancer patients: A low-income country perspective
Authors: Fernandopulle A. N. R. , Vinothan S. , Jesuthasan M.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: This study assesses the efficacy of self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) in palliating dysphagia among patients with oesophageal cancer. Despite potential complications, SEMS emerges as a preferred option in palliative care world-wide.Methods: A prospective cohort study over one year period among 80 patients with inoperable oesophageal carcinoma considered for palliative treatment and referred for SEMS to relieve the malignant dysphagia. All the stenting were performed by a single Gastro enterologist (ANR). Mellow-Pinkas scoring system was used to assess the efficacy.Results: The mean age of the patients was 66 years with majority of them being male (60%, n=48). A substantial proportion of tumors were in the middle third of the esophagus (57.5%, n = 46). Notably, 53% of patients (n=42) reported exclusive liquid swallowing ability, while 27% (n=22) could swallow semi-solid foods, and 20% (n=16) experienced complete dysphagia. The technical success rate of the intervention was 100%, with a noteworthy 98.8% (n=79) of patients reporting an improvement. However, clinical success, defined by the achievement of improved swallowing function, was observed in only 63.7% (n=51) of cases. Despite a statistically significant average reduction of 1.7 points in the dysphagia scoring system (range 0-3) (p<0.001), tumor location did not emerge as a significant factor influencing clinical success (p>0.05). Procedure related complications were rare.Conclusion: Fully covered self-expanding metal stent is a safe and an effective method of palliation of an intolerable symptom in oesophageal carcinoma patients. Life threatening complications were rare. Further improvements to the quality of stents may help reduce the number of complications and enhance the quality of life of patient.
Structural and Elemental Analysis of Waraka and Wala Jackfruit Seed Flour Samples by SEM-EDX Method
Authors: Senaweera Y. T. , Prasantha B. D. Rohitha
Published: April 2024

Diversification of jackfruit seed flour depends on its phenotypic and organoleptic characteristics. Seed flour is of good source of starch, dietary fiber, and minerals. Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis (SEM-EDX) provides a quick non-destructive determination of the elemental composition of the sample readily identifying some elements present in the biological materials. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine the structural morphological characteristics and mineral elements present in the seed flour samples of two Jackfruit varieties, waraka and wala. Jackfruit seeds flour samples of waraka and wala were prepared by using de-coted dried seeds. The SEM-EDX method was used to identify the element profile within the ultra-structure. SEM observation of the two jackfruit seed samples showed different structure morphology. Bell-shape starch granules were observed in waraka seed flour. Spherical shape starch granules were observed in wala seed flour. The mean starch granule size of the waraka and wala seed flour were 8.00±0.78 μm and 8.93±0.13 μm, respectively. Wala flour showed comparatively higher macro-element content than waraka flour. The macro elements present in wala were 47% oxygen, 41% carbon, 8% nitrogen, 2% sodium and 0.7% potassium. Waraka seed flour contained 53% of oxygen, 41% of carbon, and 0.5% of potassium. Study confirmed that structural morphology and element composition of seed flour are different between two jackfruit varieties, waraka and wala.
The impact of anticholinergics on cognitive function in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction: A narrative review
Authors: Welk Blayne
Published: April 2024

This narrative review discusses the relationship between anticholinergic medications and cognitive change specifically in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD). NLUTD is prevalent in various conditions, including spinal cord injury (SCI), spina bifida (SB), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s, stroke, and dementia and often requires anticholinergic overactive bladder (OAB) medications. In the general population, and among those with OAB, several studies have found a significant association between this class of medications and cognitive side effects, mostly when used for > 90 days. These cognitive side effects may be particularly relevant to people with NLUTD due to their higher baseline risk of cognitive impairment. Two studies (one in people with SCI and another in MS) found evidence of cognitive impairment with the use of OAB anticholinergics (specifically oxybutynin and tolterodine). People with dementia commonly use OAB anticholinergics, and there is evidence that oxybutynin and tolterodine may impair cognition in this population. Two recent studies in children with SB studied 12 months of solifenacin and 6 months of fesoterodine/oxybutynin and found there was no significant change in neuropsychological testing. Clinical studies in people with Parkinson’s disease and prior stroke have not shown that trospium, darifenacin, or fesoterodine have a significant impact on cognitive measures. In summary, oxybutynin and tolterodine may pose a higher risk of cognitive impairment than newer OAB anticholinergics in people with NLUTD; there is no evidence that children with SB experience cognitive impairment with OAB anticholinergics. Further study is necessary to confirm cognitive safety, particularly as the NLUTD population may have a high exposure to OAB anticholinergics. Advocating for potentially safer OAB medications is necessary if there is concern about cognitive risks.
Renal artery pseudoaneurysm post-COVID-19 infection: An unusual delayed complication
Authors: Shubhankar Gautam , Mittal Ankur , Panwar Vikas Kumar , Kumar Siddharth
Published: April 2024

This case report discusses a rare and severe complication of COVID-19 recovery – renal mucormycosis leading to right renal artery pseudoaneurysm. A 59-year-old patient, previously treated for COVID-19, presented with dry cough, flank pain, and hematuria. He was diagnosed with renal artery pseudoaneurysm with renal mucormycosis. Successful management included urgent angioembolization, systemic liposomal amphotericin B, and subsequent radical nephrectomy post-stabilization. The case underscores the importance of vigilant post-COVID-19 follow-up, particularly in patients treated with steroids, and highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach for timely diagnosis and effective management of mucormycosis related complications.
Survival outcomes of postchemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for nonseminomatous germ cell tumors: A retrospective cohort study from a single tertiary center in South India
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Sadanala Madhuri Evangeline , Nagasubramanian Santosh , Joel Anjana , George Arun Joseph Philip , Gowri S Mahasampath , Mukherjee Partho , Singh Ashish , Mukha Rajiv Paul , Kumar Santosh , Devasia Antony , Nirmal Thampi John
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Chemotherapy, postchemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (pcRPLND), and metastasectomy remain the standard of care for the management of advanced nonseminomatous germ cell tumor (NSGCT).

Methods:

We retrospectively studied 73 patients who had pcRPLND at a single tertiary-care center (2003–2022). Surgical and clinicopathological features and oncological outcomes are presented.

Results:

The mean age was 28.27 years (15–48). Three-fourths had Stage III disease at diagnosis. International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group risk stratification was 54.54% and 21.21% in intermediate risk, and poor risk, respectively. Sixty-two patients had Standard, 7 had Salvage and 4 underwent Desperation pcRPLND. Eleven patients (15.06%) required adjunctive procedures. Thirteen patients (17.8%) had ≥ class 3 Clavien–Dindo complications and postoperative mortality occurred in 5 (6.8%) patients. The histopathologies (HPE) of the pcRPLNDs were necrosis, teratoma, and viable tumor in 39.7%, 45.2%, and 15.1%, respectively. Seven patients underwent metastasectomy. An 85% size reduction in the size of RPLN predicted necrosis. There was 71.4% concordance between pcRPLND and metastasectomy HPEs. The median follow-up was 26.72 months (inter-quartile range – 13.25–47.84). The 2-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) rate was 93% (95% confidence interval [CI]–83%–97%) and the overall survival (OS) rate was 90% (95% CI–80%–95%). This is the largest series of pcRPLND for NSGCT in India to our knowledge.

Conclusion:

Although most of the cohort belonged to stage III, an RFS and OS rate of >90% at 2 years was achieved. We believe that successful management of postchemotherapy residual masses in NSGCT is contingent on the availability of multidisciplinary expertise and is therefore best done at tertiary-care referral centers.
Robotic reconstruction of necrosed ileal ureter: Technical challenges, intra-operative difficulty, and learning points
Authors: Aggarwal Deepanshu , Kalra Sidhartha , Dorairajan Lalgudi Narayanan , Sreerag K S , Thakor Poojan
Published: April 2024

This video explores the challenges faced during a re-do robotic intra-corporeal ileal ureter reconstruction in a previously operated case. A 24-year-old woman presented with a 12-cm long stricture after robotic ileal ureter replacement surgery. A proper preoperative evaluation in the form of ureteroscopy and a nephrostogram is essential and the key steps include adhesiolysis, identification of the necrotic ileal ureter, and meticulous dissection. A 13-cm long segment of the ileum was isolated and was anastomosed to the renal pelvis and the bladder. The surgery lasted for 420 min with 300 ml of blood loss. Post-operatively, the patient recovered well and had a normal drainage with no complications at 1-year of follow-up. The factors such as a broad mesentery, a tension-free anastomosis, and avoiding the twisting of the pedicle are crucial for success of robotic ileal ureter replacement surgery.
Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the urinary bladder: A systematic review of the literature and report of a case
Authors: Hage Lory , O’Donnell Michael A , Abou Chakra Mohamad , Kime Amel , Sibony Mathilde , Peyromaure Michaël , Duquesne Igor
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are intermediate-grade lesions that frequently recur and rarely metastasize. There are currently no guidelines on the management of bladder IMTs. This systematic review aims to describe the clinical presentation and compare the management options for bladder IMTs.

Methods:

A PubMed/Medline search was conducted, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, using the following Mesh terms: (“inflammatory myofibroblastic”) AND (“tumor”) OR (“tumor”) AND (“bladder”) AND (“case report”). A total of 75 case reports were included in the analysis.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 36 years. 65% of the cases initially presented with hematuria. 68% of the tumors stained positive for anaplastic lymphoma kinase, and 20% invaded the muscularis. Patients underwent either transurethral resection of the bladder tumor (TURBT) only (34%), TURBT followed by complementary partial cystectomy (16%), or TURBT followed by radical cystectomy (4%). 36% and 9% of the cases underwent partial and radical cystectomy after the initial diagnosis, respectively. Cystectomies were performed using an open (74%), laparoscopic (14%), robotic-assisted (10%), or unknown (2%) approach. At a mean follow-up of 14 months, the recurrence and metastasis rates were about 9% and 4%, respectively. In addition, we present the case of a 49-year-old woman with a bladder IMT who underwent TURBT followed by laparoscopic partial cystectomy. The patient remains tumor free postoperatively (follow-up period of 12 months).

Conclusion:

A complete surgical excision of the bladder IMT is crucial for the optimal management of these cases. Proper differentiation of this tumor from sarcoma or leiomyosarcoma leads to the best outcomes.
Accuracy of Transthoracic Echocardiography in Detecting Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava against the Cardiac Computed Tomography Scan
Authors: Rakholia Dishant , Kanpariya Arpita , Ganjiwale Jaishree , Patel Viral , Trivedi Bhadra
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Detection of the persistent left superior vena cava (LSVC) is essential to diagnosing pediatric congenital heart diseases (CHDs). Transthoracic echocardiography is the most commonly used diagnostic tool for CHDs. This study compares transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac computed tomography (CT) to detect LSVC.

Methods:

Retrospective review of 49 pediatrics patients with CHDs who underwent echocardiography and cardiac CT.

Results:

Forty-nine pediatric patients with CHDs who underwent CT scans were included. In acyanotic CHD patients, CT identified four with bilateral superior vena cava (SVC), while echocardiography picked up three and missed one. In the remaining 16 patients with acyanotic CHDs, CT found single right-sided SVC; however, two of these were misidentified as having bilateral SVC during echocardiography. In the cyanotic CHD group, four patients had bilateral SVC. All four were picked up by echocardiography as well. However, echocardiography diagnosed one additional patient as having bilateral SVC, while the patient actually had a single SVC on CT scan.

Conclusion:

Transthoracic echocardiography can reasonably detect persistent LSVC in pediatric CHD patients.
Pragmatic algorithm for management of common bile duct calculi in resource-limited settings in India
Authors: Mehendale Vinay Gangadhar , Kamdar Manoj S. , Shenoy Sharad Narayan
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) facilitates the removal of common bile duct (CBD) calculi by endoscopy. When ERCP fails, exploration of CBD is required for the clearance of CBD calculi. The optimum way for the exploration of CBD is by choledochoscopy. Dedicated flexible or rigid choledochoscopes are expensive and available only in few places in India. Since 1991, we subjected patients with suspected CBD calculi to ERCP, followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Patients in whom ERCP failed to clear CBD were subjected to open exploration of CBD using any easily available, suitable, straight rigid scope for choledochoscopy.

Patients and Methods:

Since March 1991, out of 8866 patients with cholelithiasis, 862 underwent ERCP. Ninety-six patients in whom ERCP failed to clear CBD underwent open exploration of CBD. In each case of exploration of CBD, choledochoscopy was performed using a straight rigid scope, either a cystoscope, paediatric cystoscope, hysteroscope or 5-mm laparoscopy telescope with a 5-mm cannula.

Results:

The CBD clearance was complete in 95 patients, and one patient had an impacted calculus at the ampulla. CBD explorations were followed by choledochoduodenostomy, T-tube placement or suturing of choledochotomy. No residual calculi were observed after such exploration.

Conclusion:

From our results, we advocate the following algorithm for CBD calculi in resource-limited settings. Subject patients with CBD calculi to ERCP followed by LC. In case of failed ERCP, open exploration of CBD with choledochoscopy using any suitable rigid scope. Dedicated flexible or rigid choledochoscope is not essential. This approach is cost-effective and successful.
Assessing the educational value of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy videos on YouTube®: A comparative analysis of short versus long videos
Authors: Baturu Muharrem , Öztürk Mehmet , Bayrak Ömer , Erturhan Sakıp , Seckiner Ilker
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

To evaluate the quality of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy videos and determine the extent to which they are informative and educational for healthcare professionals.

Patients and Methods:

We used the YouTube® search engine to search for the term ‘laparoscopic radical nephrectomy’ with time filters of 4–20 min (Group 1) and >20 min (Group 2) and then sorted the results uploaded chronologically before January 2023. One hundred videos were analysed for each group. The reliability of the videos was assessed using the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) Benchmark Criteria and DISCERN questionnaire scores (DISCERN). Educational quality was assessed using the Global Quality Score (GQS) and a 20-item objective scoring system (OSS) for laparoscopic nephrectomy. The popularity of the videos was evaluated using the video power index (VPI).

Results:

The mean video duration was 8.9 ± 4.3 min in Group 1 and 52.02 ± 31.09 min in Group 2 (P < 0.001). The mean JAMA (2.49 ± 0.61) and OSS scores (60 ± 12.3) were higher in Group 2 than in Group 1, while no significant difference was observed in the mean GQS (2.53 ± 0.7, 2.39 ± 0.88, respectively) between the groups (P < 0.001, P = 0.039, P = 0.131, respectively).

Conclusion:

While the standardisation of surgical videos published on YouTube® and the establishment of auditing mechanisms do not seem plausible, high total OSS, periprocedural OSS, and VPI scores, and high OSS, JAMAS, GQS and DISCERN scores in long videos indicate that such videos offer a greater contribution to education.
The effect of upper transabdominal plane block on diaphragm thickness in adult patients after laparoscopic cholecystectomy operation
Authors: Uyar Sami , Tire Yasin , Kozanhan Betul
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

In this prospective and observational study, our objective was to examine the impact of subcostal transversus abdominis plane (SubTAP) block, along with intravenous analgesia techniques, on diaphragm thickness and post-operative pain following laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Patients and Methods:

This study examined laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients aged 18–60 years with an American Society of Anesthesiologist score of 1–2. This study divided patients into Group 1 for SubTAP block and Group 2 for intravenous analgesia. This study had 67 patients, at least 30 from each group. Thus, diaphragm thicknesses and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) values were compared between regional anaesthesia and intravenous analgesia groups.

Results:

Pre-operative data showed no statistically significant changes between the groups, although post-extubation inspiratory thickness was closer to baseline in Group 1 patients who received regional block. The groups had different outcomes after extubation and at the post-operative 30th min (P = 0.028 and P = 0.001, respectively). There was also a significant difference in post-operative oxygen saturation and VAS scores (P = 0.001). Our receiver operating characteristic analysis determined that the threshold values for VAS parameters of 2 or 3 were 0.28 cm in inspiration, 0.18 cm in expiration and 1.29 as i/e ratio. Significant discomfort was defined as diaphragm parameter values below these limits.

Conclusions:

We found that the earlier return of diaphragmatic functions to baseline was associated with diaphragm thickness. According to the measurements made in the post-operative care unit, the regional block group effectively prevented the loss of diaphragm function.
In vitro and in vivo assessment of indomethacin-induced genotoxicity: protection by curcumin
Authors: Zamani Ehsan , Klour Reza Alipour , Shekarsarayi Amirreza Gholami , Ghazizadeh Foad , Evazalipour Mehdi
Published: April 2024

Background and purpose:

Indomethacin is one of the most widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of curcumin against indomethacin-induced genotoxicity.

Experimental approach:

For in vitro studies, human peripheral blood lymphocytes were obtained from a healthy volunteer and treated for 24 h as follows: vehicle control, indomethacin at 100 and 200 μΜ, indomethacin (100 μM and 200 μM) plus curcumin (27 μM). For in vivo experiments, mice received a single i.p dose of curcumin (100 mg/kg) and after 30 min genotoxicity induction was carried out by a single i.p injection of indomethacin at 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg. After 24 h, bone marrow cells were obtained from mice femurs. Genotoxicity was evaluated using a micronucleus assay. Oxidative damage was also inspected both in vitro and in vivo.

Findings/Results:

In-vitro studies indicated that co-treatment with curcumin caused a significant decrease in the average micronuclei percentage and MDA level, and a significant increase in GSH concentration compared to the groups treated only with indomethacin. In-vivo findings revealed that pretreatment with curcumin induced a significant increase in the average ratio of polychromatic erythrocyte/normochromic erythrocyte, GSH concentration and caused a significant decrease in the average percentage of micronuclei and MDA level, in comparison with the group treated only with indomethacin.

Conclusion and implications:

Curcumin attenuated indomethacin-induced genotoxicity both in vitro and in vivo. These effects might be partially exerted by decreasing oxidative stress. Further studies are required to elucidate the exact genoprotective mechanism of curcumin against indomethacin.
Carbon nanotubes induce cytotoxicity and apoptosis through increasing protein levels of Bax and ROS in mouse skin fibroblasts
Authors: Nazeri Zahra , Zarezade Vahid , Jamalan Mostafa , Cheraghzadeh Maryam , Azizidoost Shirin , Kheirollah Alireza
Published: April 2024

Background and purpose:

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are a significant discovery in nanotechnology, with widespread applications in modern technology. However, there are concerns about their potential toxicity, particularly in skin cells. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which CNTs induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in mouse skin fibroblasts.

Experimental approach:

The mice skin fibroblasts were isolated and exposed to two types of CNTs at various concentrations and then analyzed for changes in viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, the levels of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), and lactate production.

Findings/Results:

The results demonstrated that CNTs reduced cell viability and increased ROS production in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the current study found that CNTs increased the protein levels of Bax, a pro-apoptotic protein, in mouse skin fibroblasts. Furthermore, it was observed a significant decrease in lactate production in cells exposed to CNTs.

Conclusion and implications:

The findings concluded that CNTs have the potential to be toxic substances for skin fibroblasts, which serve as the body's first line of defense. This is evidenced by their ability to increase the production of ROS and the protein levels of Bax, as well as reduce lactic acid levels. As lactic acid has been reported to have beneficial effects on skin collagen production, further studies are needed to fully understand the impact of carbon nanotube exposure on human skin health.
The protective effect of Thai rice bran on N-acetyl-ρ-aminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice
Authors: Wanyo Pitchaporn , So-In Charinya
Published: April 2024

Background and purpose:

N-acetyl-ρ-aminophen (APAP) is a widely used medication with analgesic and antipyretic characteristics. High paracetamol doses can damage the liver. Thai-pigmented rice may treat numerous liver disorders due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and glutathione-restoring capabilities. This study aimed to evaluate the phenolic components in three Thai rice bran extracts and their antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities in an animal model.

Experimental approach:

Fifty male mice were randomly assigned to the control and APAP studies. Each study was divided into 5 groups (n = 5) treated with distilled water, Hom Mali, Hang-Ngok, and Hom Nil (HN) rice compared with N-acetylcysteine with/without 60 mg/kg/day of APAP orally once a day for two weeks. Blood and liver sampling were collected for analysis.

Findings/Results:

HN rice bran exhibited higher contents of total phenolic, total flavonoid, total anthocyanin, ferric-reducing antioxidant, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activities than Hom Mali and Hang-Ngok. Anthocyanin was merely detected in HN. Following APAP administration, mice exhibited significant increases in hepatic enzymes including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6)), and malondialdehyde (MDA), but lower levels of antioxidant enzymes and glutathione profiles. Amongst the three cultivars, HN rice was the only compound that decreased MDA, ALT, AST, TNF-α, and IL-6 while increasing antioxidant enzyme activity such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase that was very close to that of N-acetylcysteine groups.

Conclusion and implications:

Given the hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties, HN has the potential to be used as a health supplement.
Effects of extracts and manna of Echinops cephalotes on impaired cognitive function induced by scopolamine in mice
Authors: Sadeghi Giti , Dinani Masoud Sadeghi , Rabbani Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Background and purpose:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease specified by chronic and irreversible destruction of neurons. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different extracts (aqueous, hydroalcoholic, hexane, and ethyl acetate) and manna ofEchinops cephalotes(EC) on impaired cognitive function induced by scopolamine in mice. EC is shown to have anti-cholinesterase-butyrylcholinesterase activities.

Experimental approach:

In this study, aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts, hexane and ethyl acetate fractions of EC (25, 50, 100 mg/kg, i.p.), and the manna (25, 50, 100 mg/kg, gavage) were administered for 14 days alongside scopolamine (0.7 mg/kg, i.p.). Rivastigmine (reference drug) was administered for 2 weeks i.p. Mice were tested for their memory function using two behavioral models, object recognition test (ORT) and passive avoidance test (PAT).

Findings/Results:

Administration of scopolamine significantly impaired memory function in both behavioral models. In the PAT model, all extracts at 50 and 100 mg/kg significantly reversed the effect of memory destruction caused by scopolamine. At a lower dose of 25 mg/kg, however, none of the extracts were able to significantly change the step-through latency time. In the ORT model, however, administration of all extracts at 50 and 100 mg/kg, significantly increased the recognition index. Only the manna and the aqueous extract at 25 mg/kg were able to reverse scopolamine-induced memory impairment.

Conclusions and implications:

These results suggest that all forms of EC extracts improve memory impairment induced by scopolamine comparably to rivastigmine. Whether the effects are sustained over a longer period remains to be tested in future work.