bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Family ties? Afrikaner nationalism, pan-Netherlandic nationalism and neo-Calvinist “Christian nationalism”
Authors: Furlong Patrick J.
Published: August 2023

This study, building on longstanding debates on “German” national socialist (“Nazi”) and “Dutch” Calvinist influences on Afrikaner nationalism, examines the latter’s intersecting relationships with Dutch neo-Calvinist “Christian nationalism” and pan-Netherlandic or Diets nationalism (embracing Dutch, Flemings and Afrikaners). Like similarly-minded Dutch (or Flemings), Afrikaners most drawn to Diets nationalism were often those most attracted to German-inspired Romantic volks-nationalism, of which national socialism was the most extreme variant. Diets nationalism, volks-nationalism and “Christian nationalism” were not mutually exclusive, but part of an overlapping transnational web which influenced not just such outliers as volks-nationalists Piet Meyer and Hans van Rensburg or neo-Calvinist Hendrik Stoker, but “mainstream” Afrikaner nationalists such as Daniel Malan, Dutch-trained and, like the pre- eminent Dutch neo-Calvinist, Abraham Kuyper, a conservative Reformed churchman-turned-politician. Like volks-nationalism, Diets nationalism had a wider appeal than German national socialism, but later often took on a far right authoritarian aspect which in World War II discredited it in the Netherlands, as did Afrikaner nationalist opposition to fighting Hitler. While orthodox Dutch Calvinists moved toward a more internationalist perspective, breaking with their South African cousins over “apartheid”, “Christian nationalism” survived among Afrikaner nationalists, although looking more like volks-nationalism than anything recognizably neo-Calvinist, but neither could it meaningfully be labelled “Nazi.”
The idealism of architectural competitions: The case of the Free State Province
Authors: Peters Walter , Du Preez J. L.
Published: August 2023

Procuring designs by way of competitions is a well-established practice of both public and private clients. The territory that now encompasses the Free State Province has seen this method being applied nineteen times in its history; fourteen for buildings or projects, three for monuments of commemoration; and two for ideas competitions. It is interesting to note that ten of the competitions served to define the noble street of the capital, President Brand Street and its immediate surrounds, and that landscaped solutions for monuments were early on considered an appropriate form of commemoration. Yet, competitions remain an idealism often associated with inconvenience or changes, of which the Free State Province has witnessed its share. They are costly to stage and enter and the quality of the jury is crucial for the outcomes. As entries are anonymous, some competitions were won by distinguished architects who might otherwise never have built in the Free State Province. However, winning designs may not necessarily always result in the best building, but they certainly indicate the paradigm of the era and in that sense can serve as architectural barometers.
Some notes on the early history of the Tembe, 1280 AD-1800 AD
Authors: Mathebula Mandla
Published: August 2023

The Tembe tribe, which resides south of Maputo Bay, originates from the present day Zimbabwe and is also linked through archaeological evidence to the ancient state of Mapungubwe. It migrated to Mozambique and later occupied the land south of Maputo Bay, straddling between Mozambique and South Africa, from Mkhuze and Maputo.The list of its rulers has been confused over the years due to the repetition over various generations of most of the names and distortion of some of the names to suit the Tsonga language (or its Rhonga dialect), which the Tembe adopted in later years. A close look at the names, however, does give a chronology of the history of the tribe from its breakaway from the Mapungubwe.Therefore, the focus of this article is on the time of the breakaway to the end of the 18th century, when it was in its apogee with a recognised kingdom. It looks into the migration route from Mapungubwe and the succession history of the ruling lineage during this period. The article helps to boost the understanding of the Tembe’s Kalanga links and could help assist future research of other Kalanga migrations to the south around the same period.
The creation of the Zulu kingdom, 1815-1828: War, Shaka, and the consolidation of power
Authors: Mtombeni Butholezwe
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
Editorial Vol 78 (2017)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
The changing geography of wildlife conservation: Perspectives on private game farming in contemporary KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa
Authors: Kamuti Tariro
Published: August 2023

Widespread wildlife ranching on privately owned land in South Africa has been fuelled mainly by land use changes in the agricultural sector over recent decades. This has changed the landscape of nature conservation with varying effects. This article attempts to explain the contradictions and continuities in the governance of private wildlife ranching in South Africa, with a focus on the province of KwaZulu-Natal. The article draws on data from interviews with key informants, observations by the author and documentary evidence linked to the private wildlife ranching sector in KwaZulu-Natal Province. The theory of post-productivism is used here to attempt to understand the transformation in the agricultural and wildlife conservation sectors that has shaped rural development in South Africa. In analysing the complex relationships between different state and private actors in this space, the author argues that this changing geography is symptomatic of processes witnessed by the enclosure of land into private ownership, a process that, by no means is confined to South Africa. These transformations in the agricultural and nature conservation spheres are an integral part of rural transformation and restructuring in the South African countryside steeped in a long history of contestations over access to, and control of, natural resources inherently associated with land and wildlife.
Good Hope. South Africa and the Netherlands from 1600
Authors: Terblanche Otto
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
Jan Smuts ’n van boerseun tot wêreldverhoog
Authors: Gouws Claudia
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
Reconstructing Changamire’s family roots: New evidence from the Valoyi oral history
Authors: Mathebula Mandla , Mokgoatšana Sekgothe
Published: August 2023

The Munhumutapa (or Monomotapa) empire became a major political entity in Southern Africa from around 1420 AD. Founded and ruled by the Nembire family, its territory covered areas in the present-day Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Its rulers used the title ‘Munhumutapa’, derived from the founder’s nickname, which was later adopted by the empire itself. All the rulers during the first century of the empire’s existence are known, and so are the relationships with each other, except with the fifth ruler, Changamire, whose relationship with the other rulers has been debated for years. There are two schools of thought: One that identifies him with the Nembire; and another linking him with the Torwa, a ruling lineage of the empire’s Mbire province. Consequently, Changamire’s history is confused and his contribution to the ancient history of Southern Africa is under-researched. This has affected studies on the various roles he played in his lifetime: As ruler of the empire’s Guruuswa province; as fourth Munhumutapa’s chief justice and army commander; as the fifth Munhumutapa ruler; and later, his association with Butua state (centred in the Mbire and Guruuswa provinces). In this article some views are exchanged and compared with new information from the Valoyi oral history.
Economic nationalism amid ethnic disharmony in postcolonial Zimbabwe (1980-2013): A case of Matabeleland Provinces
Authors: Rwodzi Aaron
Published: August 2023

The colonial legacy of uneven economic development in Zimbabwe and the use of such constructs as ‘Mashonaland’, ‘Matabeleland’ and ‘Manicaland’ have remained substantially unaltered under the post-colonial government. Those regions and peoples with privileged access to national economic resources after independence have implemented policies to ensure that this advantage has continued. The unintended resultant effect is the stimulation of ethnic consciousness on the part of those social groups that believe that they are economically marginalized because of their ethnicity. This article focuses on the distributive concerns that have arisen since independence in Zimbabwe in terms of which the lack of economic development parity in the colonially conceived provinces of Zimbabwe has given rise to ethnically motivated political contestation and national economic stagnation. It argues that the economic disparity and the concomitant ‘diaspora’ phenomenon in Zimbabwe can be dealt with if policies based on ethnic considerations and favouritism give way to merit-oriented ones. This article argues that distributive concerns are situated at the heart of Zimbabwe’s economic and political challenges which inevitably feed into each other to concoct an economic dispensation that rewards the dominant ethnic group in the echelons of power. This is based on an observational or ethnographic qualitative research methodology that was used to collect data through in-depth interviews. Document analysis of the diverse works on Matabeleland complemented the interview data. The research found that uneven economic development and patron-client ties contributed to the politicization of ethnicity, thus relegating groups that are not represented in the higher echelons of power to the fringes of the national economy. It concludes by suggesting that the reconciliation process must be ongoing and genuinely supported by transparent mechanisms to get rid of the “victims” mentality amongst the people of Matabeleland for lasting peace and unity to prevail.
Kalanga culture and the nature of resistance against the Native Land Husbandry Act of 1951 in colonial Zimbabwe
Authors: Dube Thembani
Published: August 2023

In this article the nature of resistance to the implementation of the Native Land Husbandry Act of 1951 (NLHA), popularly known as amagandiya in Bulilimamangwe, in colonial Zimbabwe is explored. It looks at two Kalanga chiefs, Madlambuzi Ncube and Masendu Dube, who were deposed by colonial administrators in the 1950s and replaced by an Ndebele chief, Mpini Ndiweni. It is argued that the implementation of the Act, the demotion of the two Kalanga chiefs and the subsequent imposition of Chief Mpini Ndiweni can be perceived as the imposition of a type of cultural hegemony which was then resisted by the two Kalanga chiefs and their subjects by the reassertion of their own culture and identity in colonial Zimbabwe. It demonstrates how it was not violent or military resistance but rather cultural resistance, which was expressed through various modes, which took the centre stage in challenging both the white colonial government and Ndebele hegemony over the Kalanga. In contributing to the argument over the use of cultural resistance against the NLHA, the article draws from oral interviews which were conducted in Bulilima and Mangwe districts, on archival research and on secondary literature to demonstrate that this cultural resistance drew on a variety of signifiers of Kalanga identity such as Kalanga history, the politics of land, ideas around Kalanga chieftainship, Mwali/Ngwali religion and the possession of cattle.
Editorial Vol 82 (2019)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
The Institutionalisation of endemic corruption: State capture in South Africa
Authors: De Klerk Rene , Solomon Hussein
Published: August 2023

Systemic corruption has become the norm in South Africa. This is evident in the recent Transparency International’s Corruption Index. During the Zuma Administration, the scale and magnitude of corruption intensified and the term “state capture” was used to describe this phenomenon. Given the dramatic developments of February 2018 which witnessed the stepping down of President Jacob Zuma and his replacement by President Cyril Ramaphosa, there was hope that the new president’s promised “New Dawn” would result in reversing state capture, and more broadly, the politics of patronage. Whilst the Ramaphosa Administration has undertaken several measures to undo state capture including a cabinet reshuffle and the appointment of new boards at South Africa’s trouble State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), much more needs to be done. Drawing on international best practice from Bulgaria to Tunisia and Hong Kong, this article proposes concrete recommendations to undo state capture.
South Africa versus Rommel. The untold story of the Desert War in World War II
Authors: Visser Wessel
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
Editorial Vol 83 (2019)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
“Preventing a silent wilderness, securing the economic bounty” – Cape guano and the politics of seabird protection during the 19th and early 20th century
Authors: Snyders Hendrik
Published: August 2023

The Cape Colony, after Peru, was the second-most-important supplier of seabird guano to commercial farmers on a worldwide scale during the nineteenth century. Despite the obvious benefits of selling guano licenses and leases to exploit various offshore islands within the Cape’s colonial waters for the colonial treasury at a time of decreasing imperial funding, successive administrations placed no restrictions over the harvesting of these spaces. Under conditions of administrative indifference and lack of proper oversight, the islands’ topography was disrupted and the birds temporarily driven away. Uncontrolled guano-scraping, egg collection, and wanton killing of the birds further aggravated this situation. Mindful of their investment and to ensure their enterprise’s continued profitability, leaseholders collectively instituted certain control measures, including appointing a peace officer and maintaining an armed contingent to oversee the daily collection, regulate landings, protect the birds, and prevent guano theft. Critically, they introduced an open and closed season for the guano collection. This measure was consistent with developments overseas where a greater sensitivity for nature conservation started to emerge, in turn, overlapping with increased demand from Cape farmers for legislative protection of a wide range of ‘useful animals’. Following years of pressure from commercially orientated farmers and their political representatives to secure access to cheap and subsidised fertiliser, the Cape Government established full governmental control over guano exploitation from Ichaboe on the Namibian coast to Algoa Bay in the southeast of the Colony. Enforcing the English Sea Birds Preservation Act 1869 and its suite of existing game protection laws, the colonial Department of Lands, Mines and Agriculture adopted the former island leaseholders’ proven and regulating regime. Prompted by perennial guano shortages and incessant demand by Cape farmers, the authorities regularly amended existing measures to the benefit of the agricultural sector resulting in animals’ continued protection. The early 1890s’ laws also included bats whose excrement gradually received status as a useful fertiliser. Having ensured the ‘economic bounty’ through its various laws, by the end of the Century, for moral reasons it could afford to extend protection to other game including pigeons and shrikes and “prevent a silent wilderness”.
Land claims in South Africa: Uniqueness, historical distortions and injustices on the copper miners of Musina
Authors: Sebola Mokoko P.
Published: August 2023

This article argues that the case of the land claim by the descendants of the Copper Miners of Musina (the Musina clan) presents a unique case of historical distortions and injustice of land and mineral resources ownership by a South African black community. Land claims in South Africa have become widespread since the advent of the country’s democracy. With the land reform programmes in South Africa, some communities have been able to lay their hands on lost land that was forcefully taken from the locals under apartheid. The achievement with regards to reparation in South Africa has seen some claims being successfully processed. However, there are some beneficiaries who undeservedly possess land through undetected fraudulent claims. When such exists; deserving claimants like the Musina clan remain landless because of historical distortions and failure by the current regime to restore justice. This article is conceptual and it uses literature analysis approach to argue that archeologists and ethnologists deliberately ignored the historical studies on the copper miners of Musina in order to hide the truth about the discovery of copper mining in Messina. There are writings making incorrect assumptions regarding how Lieutenant Colonel Pascoe Grenfell, James Harper and James Campbell in 1903 discovered coal in mines deserted by the natives in order to ascribe the discovery to the white community in Messina. The author argues that there were no disserted mines in Messina when Lieutenant Colonel Grenfell arrived in Messina in 1903, instead what he did was to register the company and obtain a discoverers certificate, introduce new technology of mining and expropriate the mine from the Musina clan without compensation. It is suggested that new avenues regarding such history be fully researched towards gaining a more comprehensive view of the role and impact of the Musina clan.
The cultural historical significance of Pretoria’s jacaranda trees
Authors: Van Vollenhoven Anton C.
Published: August 2023

Pretoria is well-known for its jacaranda trees, which has earned the city the nickname “Jacaranda City”. Jacarandas, however, are alien trees, which were brought to South Africa during the 19th century. The trees are frequently in danger when development projects are undertaken, usually resulting in a public outcry, as these trees have a special meaning for the people of this city. The aim of this article is to investigate this issue to determine whether jacarandas have cultural heritage significance. In order to do this the history of these trees, with specific reference to Pretoria, was studied. Background research related to heritage management was also done in order to be able to measure the possible cultural significance of these trees. The National Heritage Resources Act (no 25 of 1999), as well as international heritage protocols, refer to natural features and specifically those of cultural significance. Thus, natural heritage issues are considered as well, in drawing a conclusion. Historical research shows that jacarandas were imported to South Africa round about 1830 and that the first ones were planted in Pretoria in 1888. They were first planted as street trees in the town during 1906, and only after 1911 this was done on a larger scale. Over the years there have been many interventions, to either protect or remove these trees. Jacaranda trees are believed to have cultural, historical, aesthetic and social values for the inhabitants of Pretoria.
A fool’s errand? Black Consciousness and the 1970s debate over the “Indian” in the Natal Indian Congress
Authors: Desai Ashwin , Vahed Goolam
Published: August 2023

Bantu Stephen Biko, born in Tarkastad in the Eastern Cape was murdered by the South African apartheid regime in September 1977, aged 31. The year 2021 marks the 75th anniversary of his birth. Biko remains iconic, but a figure that exists on the margins in South Africa. His impact in challenging both apartheid-imposed race categories and the dominant thinking of the African National Congress (ANC) inspired a whole generation through the 1970s. This article seeks to illustrate this through a previously under-researched topic; the debate between members of the fledgling Black Consciousness Movement (BCM) and those advancing the revival of the Natal Indian Congress (NIC). Through the mining of interviews and newspaper articles, the authors show how BCM adherents attempted to move the planned Indian Congress into a People’s Congress that went beyond ethnic and racial boundaries. The move was ultimately defeated, but it resonated through the 1980s and creates the possibility of new ways of thinking about still prevalent apartheid racial categories in the present.
Asymmetric relations and enforcement of democracy in West Africa: The case of Nigeria and The Gambia
Authors: Ojakorotu Victor , Olajide Bamidele
Published: August 2023

Nigeria and The Gambia have been involved in asymmetrical relations since 1965 given the disparity in the material capabilities between them. This asymmetry came to the fore in the role played by Nigeria in resolving the 2016 political impasse in The Gambia when former President Yahya Jammeh refused to accept the results of the elections and quit power, having lost to the opposition. Adopting Krystof Kozák’s four behavioural tendencies of asymmetrically stronger states in the theory of asymmetry in international relations, this article notes that Nigeria changed its behaviour towards The Gambia from asymmetric benevolence (B2) to military threat (B4) to oust Jammeh from power. It, however, adds that beyond deploying its asymmetric advantage in resolving the Gambian impasse, Nigeria cannot be of serious assistance to The Gambia in building democratic structures and institutions due to its democratic challenges on B2 terms. The article concludes that Nigeria’s action in the Gambian crisis was an end in itself, that is, it was aimed at forestalling threats to regional stability. Nigeria lacks moral and technical wherewithal to deploy its B2 behaviour towards the development of democratic institutions in The Gambia.
Nitro-oleic acid ameliorates erectile dysfunction in a streptozotocin-induced rat model of diabetes by inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis and activating the NO/cGMP pathway
Authors: Zhao Chang-Bo , Chen Wei-Bo , Wang Wen-Zhen , Gong Fang-Xin , Fan Cui-Qin , Li Ye , Lan Tian , Wang Wen-Jing , Yuan Ming-Zhen
Published: August 2023

The major vascular complications associated with diabetes make the management of diabetic mellitus erectile dysfunction (DMED) a challenging endeavor. Notable factors contributing to DMED include oxidative stress, nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway activation, and apoptosis, while nitro-oleic acid (NO2-OA) has been shown to be beneficial in treating these aspects of this condition. We, herein, investigated the effects and possible mechanisms of NO2-OA on erectile function as assessed in a streptozotocin-induced rat model of diabetes. Our results revealed that the erectile function of DMED rats was significantly impaired compared with that of the control group. However, in response to 4 weeks of NO2-OA treatment, there was an improvement in erectile function. The expression of oxidative stress-related indicators was significantly increased and the NO/cGMP pathway was impaired in the DMED group. The expression of proapoptotic factors was increased, while that of antiapoptotic factors was decreased in the DMED group. Moreover, the cell morphology in the cavernous tissue of the DMED group also changed adversely. NO2-OA treatment significantly reversed all these changes observed in the DMED group. In conclusion, NO2-OA treatment partially improved erectile function in DMED rats through mechanisms that included inhibition of oxidative stress, activation of the NO/cGMP pathway, and a reduction in apoptosis.
Molecular Facets and Biochemical Cross-Talk of Angiogenesis
Authors: Yodhaanjali Jinnenahalli Raju , Achar Raghu Ram
Published: August 2023

Angiogenesis is a well conserved biological process for vascular growth and development. A canonical approach towards angiogenesis as provided insight in understanding the molecular and biochemical mechanism which differs in cancer angiogenesis. Vascular sprouting is a critical process in cancer metastasis and invasion, cancer cells release certain growth factors that can activate downstream signalling pathways to initiate VEGFR2 gene transcription further instigating angiogenesis via VEGFR2 receptors. Furthermore, paracrine signalling through these growth factor can directly bind to VEFGR2 causing its activation. There are several factors that has been procured by cancerous cells to sustain its survival. Over a period, studies have shown that there are various downstream signalling pathways taking part in cancer prognosis as most of the signalling pathways aim to inhibit endogenous VEGFR2 inhibitory molecules such as Thrombospondin. Cancer is a multifactorial disease and therefore hypoxia, changes in cellular pH, metabolic reprogramming, mutations in proto-oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes have been the contributory factors for cancer cell growth. Understanding the biochemical and molecular mechanism have paved its way in unsnarling the potential therapeutic targets. In addition, the role of adhesion molecules has also been studies they act as an adaptor molecule for an example αvβ6 in hippo pathway activates VEGFR for tip cell activity. Thereafter, focusing on these aspects of angiogenesis can provide several targets that would be used for developing and designing inhibitory antagonist, oncogene targeting drugs or anti-cancer drugs.
Characterization of Markers of Chloroquine Resistance in Plasmodium Falciparum among Pregnant Women in Oyo State
Authors: Azeez Mufutau Mosunmade , Akinbo Frederick Olusegun
Published: August 2023

Background:

Chloroquine (CQ) which is one of the 4-aminoquinolines was once the mainstay of malaria treatment before it was officially withdrawn due to widespread resistance to it by Plasmodium species. It is one of the cheapest, safest, easily produced antimalarial compounds and has one of the longest half-lives among the antimalarial drugs which are also safe for use in pregnancy. Reversal of CQ resistance back to sensitivity has been documented after a period of withdrawal, and this may be a great relief in achievement of effective antimalarial chemotherapy at a relatively cheaper cost in Nigeria. This study investigated the characterization of markers of CQ resistance in Plasmodium falciparum infection among pregnant women in Oyo State following several years of official CQ withdrawal for treatment in Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

Thick and thin blood films were made from venous blood collected from 316 consenting pregnant women and dispensed into ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid bottles after initial screening with SD Bioline RDT kit. The blood films were processed for malaria microscopy using 10% Giemsa stain. Dry blood spots on Whatman no. 1 filter paper were used for parasite DNA extraction and subsequent detection of CQ resistance markers using restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Results:

Eighty-two out of the 316 samples were positive for P. falciparum and subjected to molecular analysis for the detection of Pfcrt and Pfmdr1 mutant genes. Out of the 82 positive cases, 75 and 80 expressed mutant Pfcrt and Pfmdr1 genes, respectively, while 73 expressed both Pfcrt and Pfmdr1 genes.

Conclusion:

The high prevalence of the two major molecular markers of CQ resistance in this study, portends a concern in achieving resurgence of sensitivity after years of official withdrawal, thus official malaria management protocols should be strictly adhered to by ensuring testing before drug use while also avoiding self-medication.
Phytochemical and Biological Studies of Salvia Chorasanica
Authors: Mollaei Saeed , Asgharian Parina
Published: August 2023

Background:

Salvia chorasanica is a perennial herb endemic to Iran, which grows wild. Due to the lack of data on S. chorasanica, the present work focused on chemical composition, as well as antioxidant and antibacterial properties of essential oil and five extracts from aerial parts of S. chorasanica.

Methods:

The analysis of chemical composition was done using gas chromatography (GC), GC–mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography–photodiode array. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activities were determined spectrophotometrically. Furthermore, antibacterial activities were investigated using the disk-diffusion method.

Results:

The essential oil analysis indicated that (-)-spathulenol, (-)-caryophyllene oxide, and (E)-caryophyllene were the major compounds. The extracts analysis indicated that ethyl acetate and methanol extracts had high phenolic compounds, and rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, and luteolin-7-O-glucoside were identified as main phenolic compounds. The biological results showed that the highest antioxidant activity was obtained in the ethyl acetate extract. n-hexane and dichloromethane extracts were highly active against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus pumilus bacteria.

Conclusions:

It can be concluded that the phytochemical compositions and biological activities of S. chorasanica could be changed using different extraction solvents.
Robot-assisted repair of hiatal hernia: Advantages and disadvantages in comparison to conventional laparoscopic repair: A literature review
Authors: Pelzner Kim , Mueller Dolores T , Fuchs Claudia , Maus Martin , Bruns Christiane J , Fuchs Hans F , Leers Jessica M
Published: August 2023

The laparoscopic fundoplication has proven to be the standard technique of antireflux surgery and hiatal hernia (HH) repair over the last decade. However, robot-assisted surgery is more and more implemented in daily practice. Several studies have proven the feasibility and safety of robot-assisted HH repair and antireflux surgery. Both approaches seem to be similar regarding perioperative and postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, postoperative symptoms, and quality of life, as well as objective assessment of gastric acid exposure. Nevertheless, high total costs as well as a considerably longer total operating time of robot-assisted surgery need to be considered. The role of robot-assisted surgery in complex cases is promising but needs to be evaluated. Eventually, the decision regarding the technique used should be based on the surgeon’s discretion and experience.
Small-bowel obstruction complicating TransREctus sheath PrePeritoneal (TREPP) mesh repair of an inguinal hernia: A case report
Authors: Andriessen Marcel J G , Bloemendaal Alexander L A
Published: August 2023

We present a case of a small-bowel obstruction due to herniation through a peritoneal defect after TransREctus sheath PrePeritoneal (TREPP) mesh repair for an inguinal hernia.
Diaphragmatic hernia repair using uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery
Authors: Patel Bhavik , Provenzano Sylvio E.
Published: August 2023

The objective of this case study is the management of small necked diaphragmatic hernia in a patient with hostile abdomen. Case study describes the technique of uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (U-VATS) for management of diaphragmatic hernia. This is a novel case for the management of diaphragmatic hernia using a patch utilizing minimally invasive cardiac surgical instrumentation via U-VATS approach. U-VATS is a feasible option for the management of diaphragmatic hernia in a patient with hostile abdomen.
Herniation and incarceration of the gallbladder through the abdominal drain site
Authors: Garbuzenko Dmitry V. , Belov Dmitry V.
Published: August 2023

A rare case of herniation and incarceration of the gallbladder through the abdominal drain site in an 86-year-old woman with degenerative aortic valve disease, a severe aortic stenosis, and an aortic insufficiency grade 2 hospitalized for transcatheter aortic valve implantation is described. An incarcerated incisional hernia through the abdominal drain site was confirmed by contrast-enhanced multislice computed tomography (MSCT) scan of the abdomen. Given the short duration of incarceration and the absence of MSCT findings of the gallbladder wall necrosis, the patient was dynamically monitored. There were no indications for emergency surgery. The presented case recalls the possibility of the formation of incisional hernias containing the gallbladder through the abdominal drain site. Literature data indicate that the diagnostic errors when they are incarcerated can lead to fatal consequences.
Ergonomics in robot-assisted surgery in comparison to open or conventional laparoendoscopic surgery: A narrative review
Authors: Müller Dolores T , Ahn Juliane , Brunner Stefanie , Poggemeier Julia , Storms Christian , Reisewitz Alissa , Schmidt Thomas , Bruns Christiane J , Fuchs Hans F
Published: August 2023

Although often forgotten in everyday routine and underestimated, especially in a surgical work environment, ergonomics are essential for endurance, efficiency, and a long and healthy work life. According to current studies, the rate of musculoskeletal disorders among minimally invasive surgeons ranges between 23% and 80%, which is lower compared with open surgery (66%–94%), but nevertheless shows the everyday relevance of this topic. An efficient and ergonomic design of the operating room has been widely discussed and guidelines have been imposed to create the optimal workspace. Furthermore, with the implementation of technical advancements and the introduction of robotic operating techniques, ergonomics have become an essential differentiating factor between systems. Surgical ergonomics are not universal but differ between open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. With the introduction of new robotic systems, many ergonomic challenges faced in open and laparoscopic surgeries have been overcome, whereas new challenges have been created. Nevertheless, ergonomics in surgery will need to be addressed and taken seriously, as a healthy workspace has gained more importance than ever.
The first robotic STORRM: A case report
Authors: Hakmi Hazim , Pacheco Tulio B S , Halpern David K
Published: August 2023

Parastomal hernias present a continued challenge to the general surgeon. There are a myriad of techniques available, with hernia recurrence rates varying between 10 to greater than 50%. Mesh reinforcement and underlay or sublay placement are associated with lower hernia recurrence rates. Many patients with parastomal hernia have associated comorbidities which increase their risk for perioperative wound complications. Robotic and minimally invasive techniques offer decreased rate of wound complications, but can be challenging to perform if the stoma needs to be relocated. For patients with complex parastomal hernias requiring abdominal wall reconstruction with transversus abdominis release and retromuscular mesh placement, it can be difficult to align the layers of the abdominal wall and create an aperture in the mesh to allow for a straight passage of the conduit and prevent subsequent angulation of the bowel. Stapled Transabdominal Ostomy Reinforcement with retromuscular mesh, or STORRM technique, has been previously described elsewhere as a technique whereby a circular EEA (End-to-End Anastomoses) stapler is used to create a straight tunnel through the mesh and abdominal wall layers, standardize sizing, fixate the mesh, and substitute traditional cruciate incisions with a stapled reinforcement of the aperture in the mesh/tissues.
A rare complication of giant pseudocyst after femoral hernia repair with mesh
Authors: Bhinder Jasmine , Borges Boris , Guo Weidun Alan
Published: August 2023

Hernia repair is one of the most common procedures performed by general surgeons worldwide. Rates of recurrence have significantly decreased with the use of mesh; however, this foreign material has its own inherent complications. We present a rare and unusual complication of giant pseudocyst formation after femoral hernia repair. Pseudocysts have mostly been described after incisional hernia repairs and there are only a handful of cases reported after groin hernia repair in the literature. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of pseudocyst after femoral hernia repair.
A Retrospective Study on Clinical Experience with Tofacitinib in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis at a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Kumar Ashok , Rudrakar Rahul , Gupta Kushagra
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Tofacitinib is the first oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Since the expiry of its patent, the drug has become affordable to patients in India. The present study describes our experience with tofacitinib in patients with RA.

Objective:

To retrospectively study the 6-month outcome of patients with RA treated with tofacitinib.

Methods:

We retrieved the records of all consecutive patients with RA who were commenced on tofacitinib in the rheumatology clinic of our tertiary care hospital from December 2020 to December 2021. The drug was prescribed as per recommended indications at a dose of 5 mg twice daily. Age, sex, duration of disease, and prior treatment received were noted. Baseline and 6-month data on the tender joint count, swollen joint count, patient global assessment, and physician global assessment were obtained from the records. Similarly, baseline and 6-month laboratory parameters (CBC, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, LFT, and KFT) were also retrieved. Disease activity was assessed using SDAI at baseline and after 6 months. Adverse effects documented in the records were carefully noted.

Results:

Seventy-five patients had been commenced on tofacitinib between December 2020 and December 2021. Five patients were lost to follow-up. Twelve patients had stopped the drug after 2–3 months because of inefficacy while 7 had stopped the drug because of adverse effects. Thus, 51 patients (out of 75) had taken tofacitinib for 6 months or more. Of these, 39 achieved EULAR good response (low-disease activity-23, remission-16) and 12 achieved EULAR moderate response. Adverse effects occurred in 27 (36%) patients and included weight gain (8%), cytopenia (6.6%), folliculitis (4%), and alopecia (4%). Others included anxiety, dyspepsia, constipation, chest pain, dyslipidemia, herpes zoster, hypertension, oral thrush, sensory neuropathy, somnolence, and urinary tract infection.

Conclusion:

Tofacitinib treatment resulted in remission in 16/75 (21%) and LDA in 23/75 (31%) in RA patients who were inadequate responders to conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs/biological drugs. Adverse effects occurred in 36%.
Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum in Children
Authors: Liao Yen-Jhih , Huang Yung-Feng , Nong Bao-Ren
Published: August 2023

Scarce studies about spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) in pediatric patients are published because of lower incidence in a child than an adult. This article is a literature review of pediatric SPM, discussing about aspects of incidence rate, epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, management, and prognosis about pediatric SPM. In conclusion, SPM is usually a benign disease and treatable with only supportive care. However, poorer prognosis is noted; if it is complicated with other underlying diseases or complications, then aggressive treatment might be needed.
Review Findings of Drug-induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) in Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Authors: Yeung Gerry Man-Fung , Leung Shuk-Yu , Kwok Ka-Li
Published: August 2023

Background:

Drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) is an objective assessment and diagnostic procedure of the upper airway obstruction (UAO) under sedation. Findings of DISE in Hong Kong pediatric group patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are limited.

Materials and Methods:

This is a single-center retrospective chart review study on DISE findings in pediatric patients with OSA documented by polysomnography (PSG). We used the DISE scoring system proposed by Chan 2014, Fishman 2013 together as our internal practice. A standard sedation protocol was conducted. Endoscopic findings were recorded and evaluated the level of obstruction, severity, and correlation with PSG parameters.

Results:

A total of 124 patients who underwent DISE were reviewed in our study. Multiple levels of obstruction had been observed in all patients. Forty-five (36.6%) patients suffered from severe obstruction in more than one level. Tongue base was the most common level being severely obstructed. DISE total score is positively correlated with obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (oAHI, r = 0.35, P = <0.001), negatively correlated with oxygen nadir (SpO2 nadir, r = –0.32, P = <0.001), and positively correlated with desaturation index (DI, r = 0.34, P < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis of the post-adenotonsillectomy (AT) group, scores in nostrils, tongue base, and supraglottic showed significantly increased. None of the subjects had complications from sedation or the endoscopy procedure.

Conclusion:

In our study, DISE was shown to be a safe, feasible, and informative assessment tool for pediatric OSA patients. In particular, multiple levels of obstruction were common in children and we observed a significant correlation between the severity of UAO measured by DISE in children with OSA and PSG parameters. Changes in UAO sites were observed when preoperative patients underwent surgical treatment.
LINC01268 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition, invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and targeting MARCKS
Authors: Tang Ling-Han , Ye Peng-Cheng , Yao Lin , Luo Ya-Jun , Tan Wang , Xiang Wan-Ping , Liu Zi-Lin , Tan Ling , Xiao Jiang-Wei
Published: August 2023

Colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) is defined as a specific cluster of colorectal cancers that develop as a result of prolonged colitis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients with IBD, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, are known to have an increased risk of developing CAC. Although the incidence of CAC has significantly decreased over the past few decades, individuals with CAC have increased mortality compared to individuals with sporadic colorectal cancer, and the incidence of CAC increases with duration. Chronic inflammation is generally recognized as a major contributor to the pathogenesis of CAC. CAC has been shown to progress from colitis to dysplasia and finally to carcinoma. Accumulating evidence suggests that multiple immune-mediated pathways, DNA damage pathways, and pathogens are involved in the pathogenesis of CAC. Over the past decade, there has been an increasing effort to develop clinical approaches that could help improve outcomes for CAC patients. Colonoscopic surveillance plays an important role in reducing the risk of advanced and interval cancers. It is generally recommended that CAC patients undergo endoscopic removal or colectomy. This review summarizes the current understanding of CAC, particularly its epidemiology, mechanisms, and management. It focuses on the mechanisms that contribute to the development of CAC, covering advances in genomics, immunology, and the microbiome; presents evidence for management strategies, including endoscopy and colectomy; and discusses new strategies to interfere with the process and development of CAC. These scientific findings will pave the way for the management of CAC in the near future.
Carcinoembryonic antigen, carbohydrate antigen 199 and carbohydrate antigen 724 in gastric cancer and their relationship with clinical prognosis
Authors: Wang Ran , Zuo Chun-Lei , Zhang Rui , Zhu Li-Mei
Published: August 2023

Colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) is defined as a specific cluster of colorectal cancers that develop as a result of prolonged colitis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients with IBD, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, are known to have an increased risk of developing CAC. Although the incidence of CAC has significantly decreased over the past few decades, individuals with CAC have increased mortality compared to individuals with sporadic colorectal cancer, and the incidence of CAC increases with duration. Chronic inflammation is generally recognized as a major contributor to the pathogenesis of CAC. CAC has been shown to progress from colitis to dysplasia and finally to carcinoma. Accumulating evidence suggests that multiple immune-mediated pathways, DNA damage pathways, and pathogens are involved in the pathogenesis of CAC. Over the past decade, there has been an increasing effort to develop clinical approaches that could help improve outcomes for CAC patients. Colonoscopic surveillance plays an important role in reducing the risk of advanced and interval cancers. It is generally recommended that CAC patients undergo endoscopic removal or colectomy. This review summarizes the current understanding of CAC, particularly its epidemiology, mechanisms, and management. It focuses on the mechanisms that contribute to the development of CAC, covering advances in genomics, immunology, and the microbiome; presents evidence for management strategies, including endoscopy and colectomy; and discusses new strategies to interfere with the process and development of CAC. These scientific findings will pave the way for the management of CAC in the near future.
Gastric neuroendocrine tumors in a BRCA2 germline mutation carrier: A case report
Authors: Zhang Hui-Fang , Zheng Yi , Wen Xue , Zhao Jing , Li Jun
Published: August 2023

Colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) is defined as a specific cluster of colorectal cancers that develop as a result of prolonged colitis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients with IBD, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, are known to have an increased risk of developing CAC. Although the incidence of CAC has significantly decreased over the past few decades, individuals with CAC have increased mortality compared to individuals with sporadic colorectal cancer, and the incidence of CAC increases with duration. Chronic inflammation is generally recognized as a major contributor to the pathogenesis of CAC. CAC has been shown to progress from colitis to dysplasia and finally to carcinoma. Accumulating evidence suggests that multiple immune-mediated pathways, DNA damage pathways, and pathogens are involved in the pathogenesis of CAC. Over the past decade, there has been an increasing effort to develop clinical approaches that could help improve outcomes for CAC patients. Colonoscopic surveillance plays an important role in reducing the risk of advanced and interval cancers. It is generally recommended that CAC patients undergo endoscopic removal or colectomy. This review summarizes the current understanding of CAC, particularly its epidemiology, mechanisms, and management. It focuses on the mechanisms that contribute to the development of CAC, covering advances in genomics, immunology, and the microbiome; presents evidence for management strategies, including endoscopy and colectomy; and discusses new strategies to interfere with the process and development of CAC. These scientific findings will pave the way for the management of CAC in the near future.