bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Impact of Long Working Hours on the Mental and Physical Health of IT Sector Employees
Authors: Sidana Neeru , Goel Richa , Singh Tilottama
Published: May 2024

Studies have demonstrated that compared to specialists in other sectors, IT professionals usually work longer hours, which makes their lives quite difficult. Long working hours are a major problem that has gained international attention, according to the World Health Organization and the International Labour Organization (ILO). They can have a negative impact on employees' health and well-being. According to ILO 2019 reports, working too many hours is accountable for close to one-third of the projected worldwide burden of disease at work or is a contributing factor in illnesses. A person's mental health may suffer gravely as a result of ongoing work pressures and associated stressors. The study looks at how extended work hours affect workers' mental and physical health of IT professionals.
Performance, Morale, Job Satisfaction, and Resilience in Law Enforcement Leadership
Authors: Hadnot-Harris Joshua L.
Published: May 2024

Law enforcement leaders struggle to manage personnel performance, morale, and job satisfaction. The literature examined indicated that law enforcement has long practiced autocratic leadership due to the connection of paramilitary structure. Exploring other leadership styles and theories to utilize for leaders could pose great benefits to how employees view the organization. A modified Delphi approach was utilized to collect data from current leaders in law enforcement through three rounds of surveys to gain consensus regarding leadership styles in policing. This chapter, as per the author, identifies five themes that explore how strategies and practices of police leadership may change if viewed differently. The themes were identified as performance is influenced by leaders' strategies and practices, which impact morale, job satisfaction, education, and training, as well as leadership strategies and practices that influence every officer differently.
Questioning Inclusive Education in a Settler Context
Authors: Spina Nancy , Bishop Melissa , Karsgaard Carrie
Published: May 2024

The authors engage in a multivocal and interdisciplinary reflexive conversation related to inclusive education while teaching in a Bachelor of Education program in the Canadian settler context. They problematize the coloniality of liberal inclusive education focusing on pedagogical theories such as Culturally Relevant Pedagogy, the centrality of Eurocentric knowledge, and educational practices of care. By articulating a power analysis of these elements, they question the decolonizing potential of inclusive education without structural decolonization.
If It Walks Like a Duck
Authors: Jackson Terri
Published: May 2024

There is a dominant discourse surrounding special education in the province of Ontario based on ableist attitudes and the medical model of disability. There has been a significant increase in ableist attitudes and the medical model of disability ingrained in publicly funded schools in Ontario. The notion that disability is an anomaly to “normal” and the idea that we need to “fix” or “change” these differences have guided both provincial policy and the actions, reactions, and ideologies of this educator. In this chapter, the author confronts her conceptions of special education, learning, and teaching. Through an autoethnographic approach, her practices as an educator and her positionality connected to critical disability theory, decolonization, and the education of children with special education needs are reframed.
Pancreatic and hepatic histopathology of high-fat diet fed streptozotocin-induced Wistar rat model of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Wickramasinghe A. S. D. , Attanayake A. P. , Wijesiri T. W. , Peiris H. H. , Mudduwa L. K. B.
Published: May 2024

In search of new fangled therapeutic agents against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), an appropriate preclinical disease model is important to ensure the success of subsequent clinical trials. There is an increasing trend in the use of high-fat diet (HFD) fed streptozotocin (STZ)-induced rodent models in investigating novel therapeutic agents against T2DM. Though several studies have been conducted on the development of the aforementioned model they were mainly focused on biochemical characteristics. Only limited studies have focused on histopathological changes which is the gold standard in investigating the treatment-related changes of novel therapeutic agents. Therefore, the present study aimed at assessing the histopathological changes of the pancreas and liver, the two main organs involved in glucose homeostasis, in a newly developed HFD-fed STZ-induced Wistar rat model. For this study, Wistar rats were induced with T2DM by intraperitoneal injection of STZ (30, 40, and 50 mg/kg) which was given after feeding the rats with an HFD consisting of 60% calories from fat for four weeks duration. Diabetic rats were sacrificed after maintaining for further four weeks. The liver and pancreas were excised and hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections were observed using a light microscope. The major histopathological changes in the pancreas of HFD-fed STZ-induced diabetic rats were loss of pancreatic islets, pancreatic islet hypertrophy, and mild fatty change in the exocrine pancreas. In contrast, the liver did not show any degree of fatty change, but the majority showed prominent hydropic degeneration in the hepatocytes. In conclusion, prominent alterations were well noted in the pancreatic and liver tissues of the Wistar rats fed with HFD, followed by STZ (50 mg/kg), and the established model could be useful in investigating and elucidating antidiabetic mechanisms of novel pharmaceutical agents.
Confinia Cephalalgica: a new start
Authors: Geppetti Pierangelo
Published: May 2024

In the early 1950s, Federigo Sicuteri, professor of clinical pharmacology, following the indication of his mentor, Enrico Greppi, professor of internal medicine, started a modern Italian investigation and clinical unit exclusively dedicated to headache medicine at the Careggi Hospital of the University of Florence. Soon, other colleagues – mostly but not exclusively neurologists – joined these pioneers and founded in 1976 the Italian Society for the Study of Headaches [...].
Comparative Analysis of Nucleocapsid Antibody Levels, Neutralizing Antibodies, and Spike Receptor-binding Domain in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 Patients
Authors: Prasetiyanti Rinta , Fitriah Munawaroh , Azmi Yufi Aulia , Soetanto Kevin Muliawan , Castillo Marvin
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Serological testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is crucial for detecting antibodies generated in response to infection. Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) target the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein (S-RBD) and can exist in the forms of immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgM, and IgA. This study aimed to assess specific antibody responses to the nucleocapsid protein (N), S-RBD, and NAbs and correlate them with the clinical spectrum of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Methods:

A cross-sectional design was conducted at the Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Indonesia. We examined 48 patients with confirmed COVID-19 of varying severity (mild, moderate, severe, and critical) on treatment days 0, 3, and 6. We measured nucleocapsid antibodies, S-RBD, and neutralization using the chemiluminescence immunoassay method. The comparative analysis of IgM, IgG, NAB, and S-RBD levels is adjudicated using the independent t-test.

Results:

Specific antibody levels on treatment days 0, 3, and 6 showed significant differences (P < 0.05). Notably, significant differences were observed in comparisons such as severe recovery versus severe death groups on day 0 in IgG, mild versus severe recovery on day 3 in IgM, moderate versus severe recovery, severe recovery versus severe death, and mild versus severe recovery on day 3, as well as on day 6 in anti-S-RBD, and mild versus severe recovery on day 3 and day 6 in neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

These findings highlight the dynamic antibody responses during COVID-19 treatment and their relevance for clinical outcomes.
Comparison of the efficacy of 0.9% normal saline with balanced crystalloid (Plasmalyte) in maintaining the metabolic profile in head injury patients undergoing evacuation of acute subdural haematoma – A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sakkanan Naveen Vivek , Swaminathan Srinivasan , Bidkar Prasanna Udupi , Vairappan Balasubramaniyan , Sathiaprabhu A , Dey Ankita
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims:

The choice of intravenous fluids is important in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), where large volumes may be required for resuscitation. Our study aimed to compare 0.9% normal saline (NS) with balanced crystalloid (Plasmalyte) in TBI patients in terms of metabolic and coagulation profile, brain relaxation score (BRS) and renal functions using serum urea, creatinine and urinary tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2* insulin-like growth factor binding protein-7, [TIMP-2]*[IGFBP7], value to assess the risk of acute kidney injury.

Methods:

This randomised controlled trial on 90 TBI patients undergoing emergency craniotomy and subdural haematoma evacuation was conducted in a tertiary care institute. The patients were randomised to receive either NS (Group NS) or Plasmalyte (Group P) as the intraoperative maintenance fluid. The primary outcome measures included the potential of hydrogen (pH), base excess (BE) and chloride values from an arterial blood gas. The secondary outcomes were the coagulation profile, BRS and urinary [TIMP-2]*[IGFBP7]. The two groups’ metabolic profile differences were analysed using two-way repeated analysis of variance. BRS was analysed using the Mann–Whitney U test. A P value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

The pH and chloride values were significantly higher, and the BE values were significantly lower in Group P compared to Group NS (P < 0.001). Brain relaxation and coagulation profiles were comparable between the two groups. Serum creatinine (P = 0.002) and urinary [TIMP-2]*[IGFBP7] (P = 0.042) were significantly higher in the NS group.

Conclusion:

Plasmalyte maintains a more favourable metabolic profile than NS in TBI patients without affecting brain relaxation adversely.
Status of vector protection measures and awareness regarding vector borne diseases in families residing in a “Nirmal Gram Puraskar” village in India
Authors: Rohit A , Mangasuli Vijayalaxmi , Amrutha AM , Sidenur Bhagyalaxmi , Vijeth SB
Published: May 2024

Background & objectives:

Mosquito-bome diseases are increasing problems in various parts of the world, causing high mortality and morbidity for humans. This study was done to assess the vector protection measures taken by rural below poverty line (BPL) families, and to assess the awareness about vector-borne diseases along with Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC) in rural BPL families.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a rural area which won “Nirmal Gram Puraskar” Award i.e., “clean village” among 96 below BPL families for a period of three months. These families (every 5th) were selected by systematic random sampling until we reached a sample size. Basic socio-demographic details, status of vector protection measures, solid waste management, vector-borne diseases and total sanitation campaign details were collected from the study participants. Pretested, semi-structured questionnaire was applied to the head of the families which included sanitation status at home by house-to-house visit. Data collected was analysed using SPSS version 20 and presented as frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation.

Results:

Among 96 families studied (454 adults and children), 84 (87.5%) were males and 12 (12.5%) were females. Among these, 291 (64.1%) were using one or the other mosquito protection measures, 52 (54.2%) were using bednets and 23 (23.9%) used coils. 12 families (12.5%) were not using any mosquito protection measures. In our study, 66 (68.8%) families had individual household latrine (IHHL) and 50 (52.1%) had open drainage. Even though 314 participants had an access to individual household latrine, 20 (6.36%) had practice of open air defecation compared to 127 (90.7%) who practiced open air defecation without an access to individual household latrine. When asked about the awareness regarding vector-borne diseases, 56 (58.3%) were aware about chikungunya, 47 (48.9%) about dengue, 46 (47.9%) about malaria, 14 (14.6%) and only 5 (5.2%) families were aware about Japanese encephalitis. In this study, 37 (38.5%) were aware about the total sanitation campaign and 40 (41.6%) about the government support for sanitation.

Interpretation & conclusion:

While there is a general awareness of vector-borne diseases, the implementation of vector protection measures is not uniform across the village. There is a need for targeted interventions to improve the effectiveness of vector protection measures and increase awareness among the community.
Mechanisms of myeloid-derived suppressor cell-mediated immunosuppression in colorectal cancer and related therapies
Authors: Nie Shu-Chang , Jing Yan-Hua , Lu Lu , Ren Si-Si , Ji Guang , Xu Han-Chen
Published: May 2024

Severe immunosuppression is a hallmark of colorectal cancer (CRC). Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), one of the most abundant components of the tumor stroma, play an important role in the invasion, metastasis, and immune escape of CRC. MDSCs create an immunosuppressive microenvironment by inhibiting the proliferation and activation of immunoreactive cells, including T and natural killer cells, as well as by inducing the proliferation of immunosuppressive cells, such as regulatory T cells and tumor-associated macrophages, which, in turn, promote the growth of cancer cells. Thus, MDSCs are key contributors to the emergence of an immunosuppressive microenvironment in CRC and play an important role in the breakdown of antitumor immunity. In this narrative review, we explore the mechanisms through which MDSCs contribute to the immunosuppressive microenvironment, the current therapeutic approaches and technologies targeting MDSCs, and the therapeutic potential of modulating MDSCs in CRC treatment. This study provides ideas and methods to enhance survival rates in patients with CRC.
Impact of STAT-signaling pathway on cancer-associated fibroblasts in colorectal cancer and its role in immunosuppression
Authors: Sánchez-Ramírez Damián , Mendoza-Rodríguez Mónica G , Alemán Omar R , Candanedo-González Fernando A , Rodríguez-Sosa Miriam , Montesinos-Montesinos Juan José , Salcedo Mauricio , Brito-Toledo Ismael , Vaca-Paniagua Felipe , Terrazas Luis I
Published: May 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most commonly diagnosed and deadliest types of cancer worldwide. CRC displays a desmoplastic reaction (DR) that has been inversely associated with poor prognosis; less DR is associated with a better prognosis. This reaction generates excessive connective tissue, in which cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are critical cells that form a part of the tumor microenvironment. CAFs are directly involved in tumorigenesis through different mechanisms. However, their role in immunosuppression in CRC is not well understood, and the precise role of signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) in mediating CAF activity in CRC remains unclear. Among the myriad chemical and biological factors that affect CAFs, different cytokines mediate their function by activating STAT signaling pathways. Thus, the harmful effects of CAFs in favoring tumor growth and invasion may be modulated using STAT inhibitors. Here, we analyze the impact of different STATs on CAF activity and their immunoregulatory role.
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: Are tumors smaller than 2 cm truly indolent?
Authors: Hoyos Sergio , Posada-Moreno Pablo , Guzman-Arango Natalia , Chanci-Drago Romario , Chavez Jaime , Andrés-Duarte Alvaro , Salazar-Ochoa Santiago
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) are relatively rare but rank as the second most common pancreatic neoplasm. They can be functional, causing early metabolic disturbances due to hormone secretion, or non-functional and diagnosed later based on tumor size-related symptoms. Recent diagnoses of PNETs under 2 cm in size have sparked debates about their management; some practitioners advocate for surgical removal and others suggest observation due to the tumors’ lower potential for malignancy. However, it is unclear whether managing these small tumors expectantly is truly safe.

AIM

To evaluate poor prognostic factors in PNETs based on tumor size (> 2 cm or < 2 cm) in surgically treated patients.

METHODS

This cohort study included 64 patients with PNETs who underwent surgical resection between 2006 and 2019 at a high-complexity reference hospital in Medellín, Colombia. To assess patient survival, quarterly follow-ups were conducted during the first year after surgery, followed by semi-annual consultations at the hospital's hepatobiliary surgery department. Qualitative variables were described using absolute and relative frequencies, and quantitative variables were expressed using measures of central tendency and their corresponding measures of dispersion.

RESULTS

The presence of lymph node involvement, neural involvement, and lymphovascular invasion were all associated with an increased risk of mortality, with hazard ratios of 5.68 (95%CI: 1.26–25.61, P = 0.024), 6.44 (95%CI: 1.43–28.93, P = 0.015), and 24.87 (95%CI: 2.98–207.19, P = 0.003), respectively. Neural involvement and lymphovascular invasion were present in tumors smaller than 2 cm in diameter and those larger than 2 cm in diameter. The recurrence rates between the two tumor groups were furthermore similar: 18.2% for tumors smaller than 2 cm and 21.4% for tumors larger than 2 cm. Patient survival was additionally comparable between the two tumor groups.

CONCLUSION

Tumor size does not dictate prognosis; lymph node and lymphovascular involvement affect mortality, which highlights that histopathological factors-rather than tumor size-may play a role in management.
Albumin–bilirubin grade as a predictor of survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with thrombocytopenia
Authors: Man Zhong-Ran , Gong Xuan-Kun , Qu Kang-Lin , Pang Qing , Wu Bin-Quan
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

The models for assessing liver function, mainly the Child–Pugh (CP), albumin–bilirubin (ALBI), and platelet–ALBI (PALBI) classifications, have been validated for use in estimating the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, thrombocytopenia is a common finding and may influence the prognostic value of the three models in HCC.

AIM

To investigate and compare the prognostic performance of the above three models in thrombocytopenic HCC patients.

METHODS

A total of 135 patients with thrombocytopenic HCC who underwent radical surgery were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative scores on the CP, ALBI and PALBI classifications were estimated accordingly. Kaplan–Meier curves with log-rank tests and Cox regression models were used to explore the significant factors associated with overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

RESULTS

The preoperative platelet counts were significantly different among the CP, ALBI and PALBI groups. After a median follow-up of 28 mo, 39.3% (53/135) of the patients experienced postoperative recurrence, and 36.3% (49/135) died. Univariate analysis suggested that α-fetoprotein levels, tumor size, vascular invasion, and ALBI grade were significant predictors of OS and RFS. According to the multivariate Cox regression model, ALBI was identified as an independent prognostic factor. However, CP and PALBI grades were not statistically significant prognostic indicators.

CONCLUSION

The ALBI grade, rather than CP or PALBI grade, is a significant prognostic indicator for thrombocytopenic HCC patients.
Percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy-assisted biliary polypectomy for local palliative treatment of intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct
Authors: Ren Xu , Qu Yong-Ping , Zhu Chun-Lan , Xu Xiao-Hong , Jiang Hong , Lu Yi-Xia , Xue Hong-Peng
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB) is a premalignant biliary-type epithelial neoplasm with intraductal papillary or villous growth. Currently reported local palliative therapeutic modalities, including endoscopic nasobiliary drainage, stenting and biliary curettage, endoscopic biliary polypectomy, percutaneous biliary drainage, laser ablation, argon plasma coagulation, photodynamic therapy, and radiofrequency ablation to relieve mechanical obstruction are limited with weaknesses and disadvantages. We have applied percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy (PTCS)-assisted biliary polypectomy (PTCS-BP) technique for the management of IPNB including mucin-hypersecreting cast-like and polypoid type tumors since 2010.

AIM

To assess the technical feasibility, efficacy, and safety of PTCS-BP for local palliative treatment of IPNB.

METHODS

Patients with mucin-hypersecreting cast-like or polypoid type IPNB and receiving PTCS-BP between September 2010 and December 2019 were included. PTCS-BP was performed by using a half-moon type snare with a soft stainless-steel wire, and the tumor was snared and resected with electrocautery. The primary outcome was its feasibility, indicated by technical success. The secondary outcomes were efficacy, including therapeutic success, curative resection, and clinical success, and safety.

RESULTS

Five patients (four with mucin-hypersecreting cast-like type and one with polypoid type IPNB) were included. Low- and high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN) and recurrent IPNB with invasive carcinoma were observed in one, two, and two patients, respectively. Repeated cholangitis and/or obstructive jaundice were presented in all four patients with mucin-hypersecreting cast-like type IPNB. All five patients achieved technical success of PTCS-BP. Four patients (three with mucin-hypersecreting cast-like type and one with polypoid type IPNB) obtained therapeutic success; one with mucin-hypersecreting cast-like type tumors in the intrahepatic small bile duct and HGIN had residual tumors. All four patients with mucin-hypersecreting IPNB achieved clinical success. The patient with polypoid type IPNB achieved curative resection. There were no PTCS-BP-related serious adverse events.

CONCLUSION

PTCS-BP appears to be feasible, efficacious, and safe for local palliative treatment of both mucin-hypersecreting cast-like and polypoid type IPNB.
Four centrosome-related genes to predict the prognosis and drug sensitivity of patients with colon cancer
Authors: Wang Hui-Yan , Diao Yan , Tan Pei-Zhu , Liang Huan
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

As the primary microtubule organizing center in animal cells, centrosome abnormalities are involved in human colon cancer.

AIM

To explore the role of centrosome-related genes (CRGs) in colon cancer.

METHODS

CRGs were collected from public databases. Consensus clustering analysis was performed to separate the Cancer Genome Atlas cohort. Univariate Cox and least absolute shrinkage selection operator regression analyses were performed to identify candidate prognostic CRGs and construct a centrosome-related signature (CRS) to score colon cancer patients. A nomogram was developed to evaluate the CRS risk in colon cancer patients. An integrated bioinformatics analysis was conducted to explore the correlation between the CRS and tumor immune microenvironment and response to immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Single-cell transcriptome analysis was conducted to examine the immune cell landscape of core prognostic genes.

RESULTS

A total of 726 CRGs were collected from public databases. A CRS was constructed, which consisted of the following four genes: TSC1 , AXIN2 , COPS7A , and MTUS1 . Colon cancer patients with a high-risk signature had poor survival. Patients with a high-risk signature exhibited decreased levels of plasma cells and activated memory CD4+ T cells. Regarding treatment response, patients with a high-risk signature were resistant to immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. COPS7A expression was relatively high in endothelial cells and fibroblasts. MTUS1 expression was high in endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and malignant cells.

CONCLUSION

We constructed a centrosome-related prognostic signature that can accurately predict the prognosis of colon cancer patients, contributing to the development of individualized treatment for colon cancer.
METTL5 promotes cell proliferation, invasion, and migration by up-regulating Toll-like receptor 8 expression in colorectal cancer
Authors: Kong Ling-Shang , Tao Ran , Li Yi-Fan , Wang Wen-Bin , Zhao Xue
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification represents the predominant alteration found in eukaryotic messenger RNA and plays a crucial role in the progression of various tumors. However, despite its significance, the comprehensive investigation of METTL5, a key m6A methyltransferase, in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains limited.

AIM

To investigate the role of METTL5 in CRC.

METHODS

We assessed METTL5 expression levels in clinical samples obtained from CRC patients as well as in CRC cell lines. To elucidate the downstream targets of METTL5, we performed RNA-sequencing analysis coupled with correlation analysis, leading us to identify Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8) as a potential downstream target. In vitro functional assessments of METTL5 and TLR8 were conducted using CCK-8 assays, scratch assays, as well as assays measuring cell migration and invasion.

RESULTS

Our findings reveal a pronounced upregulation of METTL5 expression in both CRC cells and tissues, which correlated significantly with an unfavorable prognosis. In vitro experiments unequivocally demonstrated the oncogenic role of METTL5, as evidenced by its promotion of CRC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Notably, we identified TLR8 as a downstream target of METTL5, and subsequent down-regulation of TLR8 led to a significant inhibition of CRC cell proliferation, invasion, and tumor growth.

CONCLUSION

The heightened expression of METTL5 in CRC is strongly associated with clinicopathological features and a poor prognosis, thereby underscoring its potential utility as a critical marker for facilitating early diagnosis and prognostication in CRC.
Chemoradiotherapy plus tislelizumab for mismatch repair proficient rectal cancer with supraclavicular lymph node metastasis: A case report
Authors: Zhong Wen-Tao , Lv Yuan , Wang Qian-Yu , An Ran , Chen Gang , Du Jun-Feng
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

According to the latest report, colorectal cancer is still one of the most prevalent cancers, with the third highest incidence and mortality worldwide. Treatment of advanced rectal cancer with distant metastases is usually unsatisfactory, especially for mismatch repair proficient (pMMR) rectal cancer, which leads to poor prognosis and recurrence.

CASE SUMMARY

We report a case of a pMMR rectal adenocarcinoma with metastases of multiple lymph nodes, including the left supraclavicular lymph node, before treatment in a 70-year-old man. He received full courses of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) followed by 4 cycles of programmed death 1 inhibitor Tislelizumab, and a pathologic complete response (pCR) was achieved, and the lesion of the left supraclavicular lymph node also disappeared.

CONCLUSION

pMMR advanced rectal cancer with preserved intact distant metastatic lymph nodes may benefit from full-course CRT combined with immunotherapy.
Hepatocellular carcinoma presenting as an extrahepatic mass: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Wu Wei Kelly , Patel Krutika , Padmanabhan Chandrasekhar , Idrees Kamran
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver tumor generally diagnosed based on radiographic findings. Metastatic disease is typically associated with increased tumor diameter, multifocality, and vascular invasion. We report a case of a patient who presented with extrahepatic HCC metastasis to a portocaval lymph node with occult hepatic primary on computed tomography (CT). We review the literature for cases of extrahepatic HCC presentation without known hepatic lesions and discuss strategies to differentiate between metastatic and ectopic HCC.

CASE SUMMARY

A 67-year-old male with remotely treated hepatis C was referred for evaluation of an enlarging portocaval, mixed cystic-solid mass. Serial CT evaluations demonstrated steatosis, but no cirrhosis or liver lesions. Endoscopic ultrasound demonstrated a normal-appearing pancreas, biliary tree, and liver. Fine needle aspiration yielded atypical cells. The differential diagnosis included duodenal or pancreatic cyst, lymphoproliferative cyst, stromal or mesenchymal lesions, nodal involvement from gastrointestinal or hematologic malignancy, or duodenal gastro-intestinal stromal tumor. After review by a multidisciplinary tumor board, the patient underwent open surgical resection of a 5.2 cm × 5.5 cm retroperitoneal mass with pathology consistent with moderately-differentiated HCC. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) subsequently demonstrated a 1.2 cm segment VIII hepatic lesion with late arterial enhancement, fatty sparing, and intrinsic T1 hyperintensity. Alpha fetoprotein was 23.3 ng/mL. The patient was diagnosed with HCC with portocaval nodal involvement. Review: We surveyed the literature for HCC presenting as extrahepatic masses without history of concurrent or prior intrahepatic HCC. We identified 18 cases of extrahepatic HCC ultimately found to represent metastatic lesions, and 30 cases of extrahepatic HCC found to be primary, ectopic HCC.

CONCLUSION

Hepatocellular carcinoma can seldomly present with extrahepatic metastasis in the setting of occult primary. In patients with risk factors for HCC and lesions suspicious for metastatic disease, MRI may be integral to identifying small hepatic lesions and differentiating from ectopic HCC. Tumor markers may also have utility in establishing the diagnosis.
Association between COVID-19 Severity and Expression of Viral Nucleic Acid Sensor Genes in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and Nasopharyngeal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ghoreshi Zohreh-Al-Sadat , Behboudi Emad , Askarpour Hedyeh , Raesi Nejad Fatemeh , Arefinia Nasir
Published: May 2024

This study examined expression of key viral nucleic acid sensor genes MDA5, ZBP1, and AIM2 in nasopharyngeal epithelial cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from 153 COVID-19 patients across a spectrum of disease severity (mild, severe, and critical) and 42 healthy controls. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to quantify and compare sensor transcript levels. The COVID-19 cohort had a mean age of 53.6 years. All three sensor genes including MDA5 (3.2-fold), ZBP1 (5.1-fold), and AIM2 (4.7-fold) exhibited significantly higher messenger RNA expression in both nasopharyngeal and PBMC samples from infected patients compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, sensor transcript upregulation positively correlated with escalating disease severity. During early stages, ZBP1 and AIM2 transcripts were selectively elevated within the nasopharyngeal compartment, suggesting a localized antiviral response. Whereas later during critical disease stages, ZBP1 and AIM2 levels became preferentially heightened within circulating PBMCs, indicating systemic immune cell activation. By comparison, MDA5 elevation manifested within nasopharyngeal epithelial cells during both early- and late-phase infection. Intriguingly, males displayed higher ZBP1 and AIM2 expression compared with females, whereas MDA5 transcript levels were conversely higher among females. Overall, escalation of these key viral sensor genes appears closely linked to COVID-19 progression, with initial nasal mucosal upregulation transitioning to widespread blood cell activation in severe systemic disease. These patterns of sensor expression suggest frontline immunological efforts to constrain early viral invasion and combat severe late-stage COVID-19 illness through innate detection of replicating SARS-CoV-2.
A Comparative Analysis of Thermal Runaway Propagation in Different Modular Lithium-Ion Battery Configuration
Authors: Garcia Antonio , Monsalve-Serrano Javier , Dreif Amin , Guaraco-Figueira Carlos
Published: May 2024

Thermal runaway is a critical safety concern in lithium-ion battery systems, emphasising the necessity to comprehend its behaviour in various modular setups. This research compares thermal runaway propagation in different modular configurations of lithium-ion batteries by analysing parameters such as cell spacing and applying phase change materials (PCMs) and Silica Aerogel. The study at the module level includes experimental validation and employs a comprehensive model considering heat transfer due to thermal runaway phenomena. It aims to identify the most effective modular configuration for mitigating thermal runaway risks and enhancing battery safety. The findings provide valuable insights into the design and operation of modular lithium-ion battery systems, guiding engineers and researchers in implementing best practices to improve safety and performance across various applications.
Surface Modification of Henequen Fibers with Catalyst for Improving
Mechanical and Thermal Properties in Phenolic Composites for Automotive
Uses
Authors: Seeniappan Kaliappan , Natrayan L.
Published: May 2024

In this study, henequen fibers that had been treated with NaOH were used as
reinforcements in phenolic-based materials. The hot-pressing method was used to
create composites, which were then tested for tensile, flexural, fundamental,
and thermogravimetric characteristics. When compared with samples that were
untreated, the total attributes of fiber interface modification and treatment
improved. The treated varieties of 50% henequen materials had the best tensile
qualities of all composites, although their flexural values fell somewhat in
comparison to the unprocessed materials. Fiber processing reduced the
three-point bending characteristics of henequen composites. SEM was used to
investigate the behavior of matrix and fiber bonding prior to and following
pretreatment. Processed with 50% henequen resulted in improved fiber dispersion,
60% henequen resulted in void content, whereas 40% henequen resulted in
inadequate fiber/matrix interface bonding. Thermogravimetric evaluation was used
to investigate the behavior of processed henequen and phenolic materials at high
temperatures and discovered that their thermal resilience was improved due to
strong bonding between the layers. Coated 50% henequen demonstrated improved
characteristics due to the proportion of fiber/matrix blending and improved
bonding between surfaces. Henequen material has a chance to be used for exterior
use as well as artificial roof and wall construction.
Sert, Josep Lluís (1902–1983)
Authors: Cormier Leslie Humm
Published: May 2024

The Catalan architect Josep Lluís Sert i López brought the modernist aesthetics of the Mediterranean to the Charles River, Massachusetts as Director of the Harvard Graduate School of Design, where Walter Gropius, as chair of the Department of Architecture, had introduced a modernist curriculum. Emigré architect, planner and educator, exponent of the ideas of Le Corbusier and the CIAM, Sert continued the European modernist trajectory in America.
Beauty and the Beast (1946)
Authors: Uher Valerie
Published: May 2024

Beauty and the Beast [La Belle et la Bête] is a black-and-white French film directed by Jean Cocteau. Based on the fairy-tale by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont, Beauty and the Beast was Cocteau’s first feature-length film. Influenced by the modernist experiments of the Parisian avant-garde, the film is celebrated for its surrealistic combination of fantasy and realism. The narrative describes the story of Belle (Josette Day), the beautiful captive of the Beast (Jean Marais), a loving but monstrous figure. Initially disgusted by the Beast, Belle ultimately falls in love with him, at which point he is transformed into an attractive prince. Emphasising identity, desire, gender, appearance, and social status, the film betrays a modernist fascination with psychological themes. Cocteau employed a realistic, documentary style for the film, produced through the use of unsophisticated camera movements, numerous fixed camera shots, as well as framing and mise-en-scène recalling the realist paintings of Vermeer. In counterpoint to the film’s realism, a fantasy, fairy-tale story-world is also presented, in which a monstrous beast is actually a dashing prince in disguise, characters transform into other humans and animals, and physical objects magically come alive. Cocteau’s stylistic innovations and authorial vision in Beauty and the Beast helped establish him as an Auteur director and position him as a predecessor of the French New Wave.
Cinema Nôvo
Authors: Baker Peter
Published: May 2024

This entry describes the history and aesthetic concerns of the Brazilian cinema nôvo movement, active from the 1950s to the 1970s. It discusses some of the most important directors and works of the movement and outlines its development across four cycles of film production: the favela cycle, the sertão cycle, the city power film cycle and the tropicalist cycle.
Identification of genetically plastic forms among Belarusian ancient flax (Linum usitatissimum convar. elongatum Vav. et Ell.) varieties using the Linum Insertion Sequence LIS-1
Authors: Parfenchyk Maria , Lemesh Valentina , Lagunovskaya Elena , Sakovich Valentina , Buloichik Andrei , Guzenko Elena , Khotyleva Lyubov
Published: May 2024

The Linum Insertion Sequence 1 (LIS-1) occurs in the genetically plastic flax genotypes in response to the lack or excess of mineral and water nutrition, but also naturally, and can be transmitted to the progeny. We have analyzed 21 ancient Belarusian varieties of flax Linum usitatissimum convar. elongatum Vav. et Ell. The LIS-1 presence or absence was checked for individual plants in at minimum two generations with primer-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and agarose gel electrophoresis. The studied flax varieties formed four groups: non-responsive varieties (LIS-1 was not found, group NR); responsive, which formed and completely lost the insertion (group R0); responsive, which formed and retained LIS-1 (group R1); and responsive unstable (group R2). A statistically significant difference was found in ‘plant height’ (p < 0.05), ‘technical length of the stem’ (p < 0.05) between R0 and NR, and R2 and NR LIS-1 groups. The machine learning algorithm random forest classifier was used to predict the presence, absence or heterozygosity of LIS-1 in flax plants based on their growth and reproductive characteristics. As a result, the accuracy of the prediction was 98% on test data. In terms of sources for the selection of fibre flax varieties adaptive to environmental challenges, the most promising group consists of responsive varieties that have formed LIS-1 insertion (R0, R1 and R2 groups).
An Evaluation of Restorative Gloucestershire’s work within the prison system: Process and Outcome Evaluation of Restorative Reasoning
Authors:   , Rees Ella
Published: May 2024

The research forms an analysis of the effectiveness of a six-week Restorative Reasoning pilot programme deployed within a UK women’s prison (Prison X) in early 2020, with 13 women participating. The analyses are based on a two stage Process and Outcome evaluation based on the QUALIPREV process as developed by Rummens et al (2016) and adapted by Hobson (2019). The analysis is based on data that encompasses the scope of the programme, including: interviews with the two programme designers and facilitators; the programme materials used during the scheme; interviews with the Prison Activities Hub manager and with the Prison Project Manager; and self-completion feedback forms from the 13 women that engaged in the programme. Overall, the pilot was found to have a range of positive effects for those that participated, and was implemented well within the prison as a pilot from an external agency. In particular, both participants, programme managers and the prion staff reported positive changes in attitude for the women that took part. Participants expressed an attitude change, particularly in being more open to discourse and discussion around the harm they may have caused and repair needed in relationships, evident in a subsequent request for referrals for further restorative work. Positive therapeutic relationships between practitioners and participants are also evident, with efforts to diminish any power imbalances and emphasise commonality and inclusivity. The paper also identifies challenges with scheme, including: challenges of accessibility and ensuring that the scheme is available to those struggling with literacy, learning difficulties and developmental issues; and the difficulties in transitioning the support in place in prison into the community on release.
The Health Benefits of Racerunning for Those With a Moderate-To-Severe Neurodevelopmental Disability
Authors:   , Thacker Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Neurodevelopmental disabilities can cause restrictions in mobility, increasing the risk of individuals developing secondary health conditions. For individuals with moderate-to-severe neurodevelopmental disabilities, it can be difficult to find activities which improve physical health and reduce this risk. RaceRunning is a developing disability sport designed specifically for individuals with moderate-to-severe disabilities, enabling them to move independently with the potential to improve physical health outcomes. Aim: The present study aims to investigate the effect of RaceRunning on physical health in individuals with moderate-to-severe neurodevelopmental disabilities. Method: Five males and 4 females with neurodevelopmental disabilities (18.1 ± 9.8y) completed a 12-week intervention consisting of a 1-hour RaceRunning session per week. Sessions involved a warm-up section, a skills section and a cool down. At baseline and 12 weeks, resting heart rate, blood pressure and thigh and calf circumference were measured. Isometric strength in both legs were also recorded. Cardiorespiratory response to RaceRunning was assessed via a 6-minute RaceRunning test and kinematics of running technique were recorded and analysed during the test. Results: Significant decreases in resting heart rate were observed post intervention (p = 0.038) with no changes in blood pressure (systolic = p = 0.242) (diastolic = p=0.846). No significant differences were observed in thigh (left = p=0.922, right = p =0.404) or calf circumference (left = p = 0.377, right = p = 0.310). Knee flexion isometric strength was significantly higher in both left (p = 0.021) and right (p = 0.006) legs but only significantly higher in the left knee for knee extension (p = 0.018). Plantarflexion saw no significantly different (left = p = 0.139, right = p = 0.075) changes in isometric strength. There was no significant change in the 6-minute RaceRunning test and kinematic changes were only observed in the knee following 12 weeks of RaceRunning. Conclusion: This preliminary evidence suggests there may be some health benefits of RaceRunning to those with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Recruiting a larger cohort and assessing other measures of health may better reflect these changes.
An Analysis of Students’ Mathematical Curiosity in Online Learning Viewed from Academic Level and Gender
Authors: Zetriuslita Zetriuslita , Saleh Sitti Fithriani , Baharullah Baharullah , Laelasari Laelasari
Published: May 2024

Online learning affects students' curiosity, so it is important to develop students' curiosity during the pandemic. The purpose of this study is to describe and analyze students' curiosity about online learning. This study was conducted in the Department of Mathematics Education during the odd semester 2021/2022 with 106 students in three different courses. The research instrument was a mathematical curiosity questionnaire administered to students using the Google Documents application. The data analysis technique used was descriptive analysis. The results showed that the general curiosity of the students is classified as "strong" with a percentage of 75.17%. Academically, students with low, medium and high curiosity are considered strong with percentages of 74.07 percent, 76.5 percent and 75.12 percent. Measured by gender differences, the proportion of male and female students is 76.43 and 77.5 percent. Data analysis showed that in the era of the Covid-19 pandemic, curiosity about learning mathematics does not depend on the academic level of online learning or on gender differences. The effect of the result that the students during the Covid-19 pandemic, mathematical curiosity is still used in online learning and should be improved. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on mathematical learning in the digital age and offers practical recommendations for fostering mathematical curiosity in online.
The Difference in Parental Financial Socialisation Across Parental Education Level
Authors: Ndou Adam
Published: May 2024

Around the world, parental financial socialization now heavily depends on the educational attainment of the parents. This study looked into how parental financial socialization varied depending on the educational attainment of the parents. Parental financial behavior, financial monitoring, financial discussion, financial communication, and financial teaching were used as metrics for measuring parental financial socialization. In this study, a quantitative research approach was used. Since Fetakgomo Tubatse and Intsika Yethu municipalities are the most rural and low-income locations in South Africa, data were gathered through the use of a self-administered questionnaire. Data analysis techniques included Tukey HSD test, Welch robust test, Levene's test, descriptive statistics, and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The results demonstrated that parental financial socialization varies significantly depending on the educational attainment of the parents. Therefore, financial socialization is more common among parents who have greater education levels than it is among those who have lower education levels. This study's findings are the first to show that parental financial socialization varies significantly depending on the educational attainment of the parents. This study suggests that more research be done on the variations in parental financial socialization across parental educational levels in other areas. Additionally, it is advised that the South African government develop initiatives aimed at addressing and raising parental education levels because research indicates that parents who have completed more education are more likely to participate in financial socialization, which affects young adults' financial literacy and well-being.
La trazabilidad en la SCM: una revisión bibliográfica
Authors: Sisniegas Gálvez Paul Alexis , Ninaquispe Zare Viviano Paulino , Gregorio Mayer Ascon Dionicio , Vásquez Salazar Oscar Daniel , Campos Vásquez Nilson Deonil , Vásquez Díaz José Laureano
Published: May 2024

El objetivo del presente artículo fue el análisis sistemático sobre la trazabilidad en la gestión de la cadena de suministro (SCM), a partir de la revisión de artículos de investigación utilizando el software bibliométrico VOSviewer. De los resultados, se evidencia que la SCM juega un rol trascendental para el desarrollo y funcionamiento de una empresa u organización, puesto que, efectiviza la toma de decisiones durante la gestión empresarial. En ese marco, la tecnología blockchain se presenta como una estrategia de soporte para la trazabilidad del flujo de productos hacia los mercados. El blockchain facilita la simetría de información entre los agentes económicos durante el intercambio comercial de bienes y servicios, reduciendo los costos de transacción. Por tanto, la implementación de estrategias incrementa y mejora la competitividad de las distintas cadenas de suministros.