bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consultant Obstacles in Implementing Construction Work Supervision in Tojo Una-Una District
Authors: Syahrin S. Lahay Mohamad , . Nirmalawati , Muhtar Kamaludin Tutang
Published: June 2024

Construction work in Tojo Una-Una Regency often experiences delays and irregularities in construction, therefore it is hoped that the role of the supervisory consultant can be a reference for all parties involved in the implementation so that the construction work process can be carried out well. The purpose of this research is what factors influence consultant obstacles in implementing work supervision, what indicators most influence consultant obstacles in implementing construction work supervision, and what alternatives can be used to resolve consultant obstacles in implementing construction work supervision in Tojo Una-Una Regency . Respondents in this study were 60 respondents. Data analysis uses Factor Analysis. The factor with the highest influence on consultant barriers in carrying out supervision of construction work is the quality of materials and construction equipment.
Authentic Language Assessment Training and Implementation in Public Elementary Schools
Authors: Fe C. Olivar Maria , D. Gallardo Remigilda
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between Authentic Language Assessment Training and its Implementation in Public Elementary Schools, with a focus on exploring the key indicators influencing its relationship. To achieve this objective, data were collected from English language teachers in public elementary schools using a structured survey questionnaire. The questionnaire included items related to the extent of training received in authentic language assessment principles and practices, as well as the degree of implementation of these principles in their teaching. The results revealed a significant and high correlation between the extent of Authentic Language Assessment Training and its Implementation in Public Elementary Schools. Moreover, a regression analysis was conducted to identify specific indicators within the training that significantly influenced implementation. The indicators "Increased Knowledge of Authentic Assessment Principles," "Application of Authentic Assessment Strategies," "Quality of Assessment Design," and "Integration of Authentic Assessment into Instruction" were found to have a positive and statistically significant impact on the implementation of authentic language assessment practices. However, the indicator "Student Engagement and Performance" did not show a statistically significant effect on implementation. Understanding the relationship between training and implementation can inform the development of evidence- based policies and practices that support language teachers in delivering high-quality education.
Enhancing Academic Achievement and Retention in Esterification Reaction among Secondary School Chemistry Students through Cooperative Instructional Method
Authors: Onisoman Chuks ZUDONU, , Emmanuel Friday Ikwut, , Didacus Emeka Ndukwu,
Published: June 2024

In senior secondary school II in the Ahoada West Local Government Area, this study was conducted, and it therefore examined the enhancement of academic achievement and retention in esterification reaction among senior secondary school chemistry students through cooperative instructional method. The research study used a design that was close to an experiment (quasi experimental). It was the non-randomized, pretest-posttest control group, specifically. Twenty (20) SSSII Chemistry students from co-educational schools were used in a trial testing session to assess the reliability of the Chemistry achievement test CAT) and retention in a non-study area. There were twenty (20) items used. The instrument's internal consistency is guaranteed by the 0.84 instrument dependability coefficient obtained by the application of Cronbach Alpha. As a result, it was decided that the instrument would work well for the Study. One hundred fifty (150) students from two classes at fifteen senior secondary schools that were sampled took the Achievement Test (CAT). Four hypotheses and four research questions were developed, and they were tested at the 0.05 significant level. For research questions, the acquired data were examined using the mean and standard deviation, and for hypotheses analysis, inferential statistics of covariance (ANCOVA) were employed. The study's findings showed that students taught using the cooperative learning approach performed noticeably better than those taught using the traditional approach. It was suggested, among other things, that delicate subjects requiring study or peer review be taught using the cooperative teaching approach.
Not an Industrial Matter: The British Trade Union Movement and Zionism, 1936–1967
Authors: Russell John
Published: June 2024

This article examines the British trade union movement’s relationship with Zionism in the period from the Arab Revolt to the Six Day War. It argues that despite an appearance of fraternalism between the British and Zionist labour movements, this relationship was, in fact, governed more by indifference and political expediency on behalf of British trade unions and unionists than by any genuine ideological solidarity or conviction. It shows the Trades Union Congress’s reluctance to give any tangible support to Zionist political aims, most clearly when such aims were in opposition to the Attlee government’s Palestine policy, but even at other points when the Zionist project faced existential threats to its continued existence.
ORGANISATIONAL COMMITMENT AND ORGANISATIONAL CYNICISM AS FEEDBACK SIGNALS: FROM ZERO TO SUBSTANTIVE CSR
Authors: Vveinhardt Jolita
Published: June 2024

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) declared by organisations can be understood as a specific signal sent to stakeholders. However, social responsibility can vary from its complete absence to symbolic or substantive CSR. There is still a lack of knowledge on how employee feedback, manifesting itself by organisational commitment or organisational cynicism, varies depending on the nature of CSR and employee seniority. Therefore, this exploratory study examines how organisational cynicism and organisational commitment manifest themselves in organisations in different situations with regard to CSR. The study was conducted in Lithuania, surveying 981 employees from public and private sector enterprises. Organisations are divided into three groups showing the corresponding level of social responsibility: substantive, symbolic and not CSR. Organisational commitment was tested using two different instruments: Organisational Commitment Questionnaire (OCQ) by Mowday et al. (1979) and an instrument created by Allen and Meyer (1990). Organisational commitment (as in the cases of affective, continuance and normative commitment) was the strongest in the substantive CSR group; and the weakest, in the not CSR group. Employee cynicism showed the opposite result. The same consistency was observed separately in the public and private sectors, with stronger commitment and weaker cynicism found in the public sector. Organisational commitment and cynicism demonstrated by employees emerge as reactions to corporate social responsibility and as a kind of feedback signal sent to persons responsible for organisational management. The results are discussed considering the signalling theory, and their implications for practice are highlighted.
Mathematical modeling in semelparous biological species through two-sex branching processes
Authors: Molina Manuel , Mota Manuel , Ramos Alfonso
Published: June 2024

This research focused its interest on the mathematical modeling of the demographic dynamics of semelparous biological species through branching processes. We continued the research line started in previous papers, providing new methodological contributions of biological and ecological interest. We determined the probability distribution associated with the number of generations elapsed before the possible extinction of the population in its natural habitat. We mathematically modeled the phenomenon of populating or repopulating habitats with semelparous species. We also proposed estimates for the offspring parameters governing the reproductive strategies of the species. To this purpose, we used the maximum likelihood and Bayesian estimation methodologies. The statistical results are illustrated through a simulated example contextualized with Labord chameleon (Furcifer labordi) species.
Dva pramena slovenske besedne umetnosti
Authors: Stanonik Marija
Published: June 2024

Most of the credit for the independence of literary folkloristics belongs to experts from the Nordic countries. The desired goal of the diachronic "Finnish school" (Krohn), i.e., classical "folkloristic working methods" (Oslo, 1926), were studies on the origin, spread and transformation of folklore motifs in the largest possible temporal and spatial dimensions, with as much comparative material as possible. Immediately behind it, structuralist debates (Propp, Jolles, Bogatyrev and Jakobson et al.), which were synchronistically conceived, are connected by a striving for the independence and equivalence of the system, which, in contrast to the system of literature, is here called literary folklore. Čistov significantly supplemented it with the theory of communication, Lihačov, Mukařovski, Lotman provided it with a place in aesthetics with the poetics of the artistic time, the categories of aesthetic value, aesthetic norm, aesthetic function and the aesthetics of opposition cultivated by literature, as opposed to the aesthetics of similarity contained in folklore. The present work examines the outlined elements on Slovenian material by presenting each literary period or its current with at least one chapter, thereby inviting consideration of a revaluation of literary folklore as a branch of verbal art that has accompanied man since the beginning of language.
After the invention of writing, it became the art of dialects and spoken language up to the present day, in both rural and urban environments. At least it is no longer possible to disguise what fertile earth it has been for the development of Slovenian literature since its inception.
Sledi in podobe izročila
Authors: Ložar-Podlogar Helena , Fikfak Jurij
Published: June 2024

Sledi in podobe izročila. Izbrani etnološki spisi 1 ('Traces and Images of Tradition: Selected Ethnological Writings 1', edited by Jurij Fikfak) presents texts published in various journals and volumes by Helena Ložar-Podlogar on rituals and beliefs. The researcher addresses milestones in the lives of individuals and communities, such as birth, marriage, and death. She explores marriage customs in the Gail Valley, Prekmurje, the Rába Valley, Lower Carniola, and the Kočevje region, highlighting magical and symbolic practices. She also studies annual cyclical rituals such as Christmas, Easter, and Midsummer. She investigates carnival rituals on the Banjšice Plateau and in the Bohinj Valley, Vrbica, Zagorica, and Ponikve, examining how traditional practices have adapted to modern times. Ložar-Podlogar researches folk devotion and beliefs, pilgrimage sites, and the beliefs and customs of shepherds. Her studies reveal how pre-Christian elements intertwine with Christian ones, and how these practices contribute to community cohesion. Her research is based on meticulous fieldwork, analysis of historical sources, and comparative studies, providing an in-depth understanding of cultural phenomena and their adaptations to contemporary times.
Through her work, Helena Ložar-Podlogar significantly contributes to the preservation and understanding of Slovenian cultural heritage.
The female character as reader in Alice Munro’s stories: “at the end of it all what has been accomplished?”
Authors: LORRE Christine
Published: June 2024

Cet article étudie le personnage féminin en tant que lectrice dans une sélection de nouvelles d’Alice Munro, en se concentrant sur la façon dont ces personnages sont réexaminés, au fil du temps, de sorte que le lecteur les perçoit différemment, tout comme eux-mêmes perçoivent un changement dans leur évolution. Il s’agit d’examiner comment la lecture joue un rôle constant dans différentes formes de développement d’un personnage, s’exprimant à travers des formes d’identification, de rejet, ou de doute, que ce soit au sein d’une communauté, une tranche d’âge, une classe sociale ou dans un couple.
Character in Young Adult fiction: The example of Lyra in Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials (1995-2000) and The Book of Dust (2017- )
Authors: DOUGLAS Virginie
Published: June 2024

Few studies have examined the question of characters and the specific ways in which they are treated in children's literature. Yet the construction of the character is all the more important in novels for children and teenagers as a large proportion of these books focus on Bildung and personal development through the exploration of the transition from childhood to maturity.I examine the treatment of character in these books through the case study of young Lyra, Philip Pullman’s new Eve in His Dark Materials fantasy trilogy (1995-2000). On the one hand, the treatment of the character of Lyra belongs to a rather conventional novelistic tradition in several respects. But on the other hand, it also benefits from more innovative elements related with the possibilities offered by fantasy, a genre which is still at the height of popularity with young adults. Daemons, for instance, are animal creatures in Lyra’s familiar yet different world who are closely connected to their human counterparts and disclose their owners’ innermost nature while playing the protective part of totemic animals. This metaphor is one of the devices in the trilogy, along with the alethiometer—a compass-like symbol-reader—, through which the character of Lyra is revealed to the reader.The fact that Pullman’s work belongs to the genre of young adult fiction is also essential. This literature targeting a liminal age group whose boundaries are increasingly blurred, fragments its young characters’ evolution ad infinitum by following them step by step towards adulthood as a way to better dissect the mutations and metamorphoses of adolescence. Even if His Dark Materials identified puberty as a turning-point in the young protagonists’ process of growing up and construction of identity, it is significant that Pullman, who had already added a small companion book—entitled Lyra’s Oxford—to the trilogy’s literary universe, is still trying to explore the multiple dimensions of Lyra’s constantly shifting character: while book 1 of The Book of Dust, Pullman’s new trilogy, La Belle Sauvage (2017), is a prequel to His Dark Materials, which focuses on Lyra as a baby—before the action in Northern Lights takes place—, book 2, The Secret Commonwealth (2019), takes a closer look at Lyra once she has become a young woman, after her meeting with Will in His Dark Materials.
L’interprétation argumentative en contexte
Authors: Kida Kohei
Published: June 2024

Dans le cadre de la sémantique argumentative, l’interprétation argumentative s’effectue selon deux méthodes, dont l’une consiste à déterminer les termes d’un « enchaînement argumentatif », discours argumentatif servant à représenter le sens d’un énoncé. Cet article vise à montrer que dans une telle interprétation on peut exploiter de diverses manières le contexte, en particulier le cotexte, de l’énoncé à interpréter, ce qui conduit à repenser la notion de contexte.
La vlogosphère engagée des jeunes sur YouTube au Québec : un espace de délibération restreint et socialement stratifié
Authors: Caron Caroline , Landry Normand , Théwissen-LeBlanc Sophie
Published: June 2024

Lancé en 2005, YouTube demeure une plateforme très populaire auprès des jeunes du Québec. Cependant, aucune recherche exhaustive n’a documenté la place qu’ils et elles y occupent comme créateurs et créatrices de contenu vidéo. Visant à combler cette lacune, cet article s’intéresse particulièrement aux vlogues engagés qui traitent d’enjeux de société. Grâce à une observation prolongée, les données recueillies montrent que le contenu engagé est minoritaire dans la vlogosphère québécoise, qui est surtout composée de jeunes dans la vingtaine. La présence de femmes est prédominante et on y trouve beaucoup de vlogueurs et vlogueuses LGBTQ+, mais les jeunes racisé·e·s sont presque absent·e·s. Les youtubeurs et youtoubeuses qui bénéficient d’une bonne visibilité proviennent majoritairement de la région de Montréal et créent des vidéos depuis de nombreuses années, dévoilant l’existence de barrières d’accès à cet espace public numérique pour les nouveaux ou nouvelles venu·e·s. La cause environnementale domine la liste vaste et variée de thèmes abordés dans leurs vlogues.
S’accorder en Terre Ferme vénitienne (Castelgomberto, province de Vicence, 1595-1598)
Authors: Faggion Lucien
Published: June 2024

Depuis longtemps, les historiens du droit et de la justice prêtent avant tout attention aux crimes perpétrés et aux jugements prononcés, et délaissent le travail régulier accompli par les notaires, qu’ils exercent dans les villes ou les campagnes. Ceux-ci livrent pourtant des informations importantes sur les désaccords, les litiges et la résolution des conflits, qui ont souvent été instruits par le tribunal citadin. Aussi l’étude des actes notariés enregistrés à la fin du XVIe siècle par quatre notaires du village Castelgomberto, situé dans la Terre Ferme vénitienne, nous permet de saisir comment les individus résolvent leurs différends, quelles sont les instances sollicitées et de connaître le langage de la paix.
Les modes alternatifs de résolution des conflits sous l’empire de l’ordonnance criminelle : la loi et la doctrine
Authors: Blot-Maccagnan Stéphanie
Published: June 2024

Au cours de l’été 1670, la commission en charge de la rédaction de l’ordonnance criminelle – qui sera promulguée quelques semaines plus tard – se réunit pour son ultime conférence. La séance du jour est notamment dédiée à l’examen de trois articles consacrés aux différents modes de résolution des litiges, amiables et judiciaires. Le projet initial se veut restrictif en interdisant les transactions au « grand criminel » tout en les autorisant en revanche dans les autres cas. Les parquets ont même l’interdiction de poursuivre dans cette dernière hypothèse, la voie amiable se voit ainsi renforcée au petit criminel. Les échanges entre les membres de la commission conduisent même ces derniers à élargir le champ des transactions et des cessions de droit en les autorisant pour tous crimes, y compris les « crimes capitaux ou auxquels il écherra peine afflictive » dans la mesure où les procureurs ont l’obligation de poursuivre dans cette hypothèse. Toutefois le nouvel article 19 du titre XXV de l’ordonnance ne précise pas ce qu’il entend par « crime capital » et ouvre ainsi la voie à un contentieux. La doctrine quant à elle se montre bien plus restrictive que le texte et en restreint le domaine d’application.
Pentoxifylline treatment as a safe method for selecting viable testicular spermatozoa before cryopreservation of a small numbers of spermatozoa in azoospermia individuals
Authors: Lorian Keivan , Vahidi Serajoddin , Dehghanpour Fatemeh , Anbari Fatemeh , Agha-Rahimi Azam
Published: June 2024

Background: Single sperm cryopreservation (SSC) is a specific technique especially used in individuals with small numbers of sperm who suffered from non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Testicular specimens possess poor motility and low population of viable spermatozoa. Therefore, sperm selection methods such as applying pentoxifylline (PTX) may improve motility in these cases. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of PTX on testicular spermatozoa before and after performing SSC.Methods: Thirty testicular samples were obtained from men with azoospermia. This study was conducted in two phases. Phase 1 evaluated the effect of PTX for sperm selection before SSC. Twenty testicular samples were divided to two experimental groups: SSC without (I) and with PTX treatment (II). For PTX treatment spermatozoa were incubated with PTX at 37°C for 30 min and only motile spermatozoa were selected for SSC. In phase 2, ten testicular samples were cryopreserved with SSC and warming procedure was carried out in droplet with and without PTX. Motility and viability rates, morphology by motile sperm organelle morphology examination (MSOME), DNA fragmentation by sperm chromatin dispersion test (SCD) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were evaluated.Results: In phase 1, post warm motility rate was higher in PTX exposed group compared to the unexposed group (25.6 ± 8.13 vs. 0.85 ± 2.1) (p > 0.00). Recovery rate, viability and morphology were not significantly different between groups. DNA integrity and MMP were also similar between both groups. In phase 2 although motility increased in PTX group compared to without PTX group (29.30 ± 12.73 vs. 1.90 ± 2.64) (p > 0.00), the viability rate was not different (70.40 ± 12.12 vs. 65.30 ± 11.87). All above mentioned parameters were similar between the two SSC groups.Conclusions: Supplementation of testicular spermatozoa with PTX before cryopreservation increases motility and did not have adverse effects on viability, morphology, DNA integrity and MMP. PTX could be used as sperm selection method before single sperm cryopreservation, but PTX could not maintain motile the most of viable testicular sperms.
[On the origin of the name Girifalco, an Italian town in a hotspot of the autumn migration of soaring raptors]
Authors: Agostini Nicolantonio , Chiatante Gianpasquale , Canobbio Alberto
Published: June 2024

In this article, a hypothesis is suggested on the origin of the name Girifalco, a small town in the Calabrian Apennines (southern continental Italy), located along an important flyway of raptors migrating through the Central Mediterranean. In particular, the name could derive from the late ancient/medieval Latin terms gyro and falco, the circling hawk, which perfectly describes the flight of migrating birds of prey passing in late summer over the town, during the exploitation of thermal currents. There, large groups of migrating birds of prey can be observed circling right above "Pietra dei Monaci", the place where the first nucleus of the modern Calabrian town arose.
 
[Article in Italian]
Van der Corput lemmas for Mittag-Leffler functions. I
Authors: Ruzhansky Michael , Torebek Berikbol T.
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we study analogues of the van der Corput lemmas involving Mittag-Leffler functions. The generalisation is that we replace the exponential function with the Mittag-Leffler-type function to study oscillatory-type integrals appearing in the analysis of time-fractional partial differential equations. Several generalisations of the first and second van der Corput lemmas are proved. Optimal estimates on decay orders for particular cases of the Mittag-Leffler functions are also obtained. As an application of the above results, the generalised Riemann–Lebesgue lemma and the Cauchy problem for the time-fractional evolution equation are considered.
Has the open surgical approach in colorectal cancer really become uncommon?
Authors: Cariati Maria , Brisinda Giuseppe , Chiarello Maria Michela
Published: June 2024

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the world. Surgery is mandatory to treat patients with colorectal cancer. Can colorectal cancer be treated in laparoscopy? Scientific literature has validated the oncological quality of laparoscopic approach for the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer. Randomized non-inferiority trials with good remote control have answered positively to this long-debated question. Early as 1994, first publications demonstrated technical feasibility and compliance with oncological imperatives and, as far as short-term outcomes are concerned, there is no difference in terms of mortality and post-operative morbidity between open and minimally invasive surgical approaches, but only longer operating times at the beginning of the experience. Subsequently, from 2007 onwards, long-term results were published that demonstrated the absence of a significant difference regarding overall survival, disease-free survival, quality of life, local and distant recurrence rates between open and minimally invasive surgery. In this editorial, we aim to summarize the clinical and technical aspects which, even today, make the use of open surgery relevant and necessary in the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer.
Clinical efficacy of Gamma Knife® combined with transarterial chemoembolization and immunotherapy in the treatment of primary liver cancer
Authors: Wang Guo-Feng , Shu Chang-Xin , Cai Xiao-Dong , Wang Hong-Bo , Xu Jian-Hong , Jia Yu-Qing
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of Gamma Knife® combined with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and immunotherapy in the treatment of primary liver cancer.

AIM

To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of Gamma Knife® combined with TACE and immune-targeted therapy in the treatment of primary liver cancer.

METHODS

Clinical data from 51 patients with primary liver cancer admitted to our hospital between May 2018 and October 2022 were retrospectively collected. All patients underwent Gamma Knife® treatment combined with TACE and immunotherapy. The clinical efficacy, changes in liver function, overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS) of patients with different treatment responses were evaluated, and adverse reactions were recorded.

RESULTS

The last follow-up for this study was conducted on October 31, 2023. Clinical evaluation of the 51 patients with primary liver cancer revealed a partial response (PR) in 27 patients, accounting for 52.94% (27/51); stable disease (SD) in 16 patients, accounting for 31.37% (16/51); and progressive disease (PD) in 8 patients, accounting for 15.69% (8/51). The objective response rate was 52.94%, and the disease control rate was 84.31%. Alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and alpha-fetoprotein isoform levels decreased after treatment compared with pretreatment (all P = 0.000). The median OS was 26 months [95% confidence interval (95%CI): 19.946-32.054] in the PR group and 19 months (95%CI: 14.156-23.125) in the SD + PD group, with a statistically significant difference (P = 0.015). The median PFS was 20 months (95%CI: 18.441-34.559) in the PR group and 12 months (95%CI: 8.745-13.425) in the SD + PD group, with a statistically significant difference (P = 0.002). Common adverse reactions during treatment included nausea and vomiting (39.22%), thrombocytopenia (27.45%), and leukopenia (25.49%), with no treatment-related deaths reported.

CONCLUSION

Gamma Knife® combined with TACE and immune-targeted therapy is safe and effective in the treatment of primary liver cancer and has a good effect on improving the clinical benefit rate and liver function of patients.
Comparative analysis of the short and medium-term efficacy of the Da Vinci robot versus laparoscopic total mesangectomy for rectal cancer
Authors: Gao Wei-Ge , Shi Wen , Gong Xu-Chen , Li Zhi-Wen , Tuoheti Yiminjiang
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

The Da Vinci robot-assisted surgery technique has been widely used in laparoscopic mesangectomy for rectal cancer. However, the short-term efficacy of these procedures compared to traditional laparoscopic surgery remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to compare and analyze the short- and medium-term efficacy of Da Vinci robot and laparoscopic surgery in total mesangectomy (TME) for rectal cancer, so as to provide guidance and reference for clinical practice.

AIM

To investigate the safety and long-term efficacy of robotic and laparoscopic total mesorectal resection for the treatment of rectal cancer.

METHODS

The clinicopathologic data of 240 patients who underwent TME for rectal cancer in the Anorectal Department of People’s Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region from August 2018 to March 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 112 patients underwent laparoscopic TME (L-TME) group, and 128 patients underwent robotic TME (R-TME) group. The intraoperative, postoperative, and follow-up conditions of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

The conversion rate of the L-TME group was greater than that of the R-TME group (5.4% vs 0.8%, χ 2 = 4.417, P = 0.036). The complication rate of the L-TME group was greater than that of the R-TME group (32.1% vs 17.2%, χ 2 = 7.290, P = 0.007). The percentage of positive annular margins in the L-TME group was greater than that in the R-TME group (7.1% vs 1.6%, χ 2 = 4.658, P = 0.031). The 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) rate and overall survival (OS) rate of the L-TME group were lower than those of the R-TME group (74.1% vs 85.2%, χ 2 = 4.962, P = 0.026; 81.3% vs 91.4%, χ 2 = 5.494, P = 0.019); in patients with American Joint Committee on Cancer stage III DFS rate and OS rate in the L-TME group were significantly lower than those in the R-TME group (52.5% vs 76.1%, χ 2 = 5.799, P = 0.016; 65.0% vs 84.8%, χ 2 = 4.787, P = 0.029).

CONCLUSION

Compared with the L-TME group, the R-TME group had a better tumor prognosis and was more favorable for patients with rectal cancer, especially for patients with stage III rectal cancer.
Clinical efficacy of laparoscopic cholecystectomy combined with endoscopic papillary balloon dilation in treatment of gallbladder stones with common bile duct stones: A retrospective study
Authors: Liu Hong-Dan , Zhang Qi , Xu Wen-Si , Jin Shuang
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

The incidence of cholelithiasis has been on the rise in recent years, but the choice of procedure is controversial.

AIM

To investigate the efficacy of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) combined with endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) in patients with gallbladder stones (GS) with common bile duct stones (CBDS).

METHODS

The clinical data of 102 patients with GS combined with CBDS were selected for retrospective analysis and divided into either an LC + EPBD group (n = 50) or an LC + endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) group (n = 52) according to surgical methods. Surgery-related indexes, postoperative recovery, postoperative complications, and expression levels of inflammatory response indexes were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Total surgical time, stone free rate, rate of conversion to laparotomy, and successful stone extraction rate did not differ significantly between the LC + EPBD group and LC + EST group. Intraoperative hemorrhage, time to ambulation, and length of hospitalization in the LC + EPBD group were lower than those of the LC + EST group (P < 0.05). The rate of total complications of the two groups was 9.80% and 17.65%, respectively, and the difference was not statistically significant. No serious complications occurred in either group. At 48 h postoperatively, the expression levels of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin were lower in the LC + EPBD group than in the LC + EST group (P < 0.05). At 3 d postoperatively, the expression levels of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and total bilirubin were lower in the LC + EPBD group than in the LC + EST group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

LC combined with EPBD and LC combined with EST are both effective procedures for the treatment of GS with CBDS, in which LC combined with EPBD is beneficial to shorten the patient’s hospitalization time, reduce the magnitude of elevated inflammatory response indexes, and promote postoperative recovery.
Effect of endoscopic sphincterotomy and endoscopic papillary balloon dilation endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatographies on the sphincter of Oddi
Authors: Fu Kai , Yang Ying-Ying , Chen Hui , Zhang Guang-Xin , Wang Yan , Yin Zhi
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), with its clinical ad-vantages of less trauma and faster recovery, has become the primary treatment for choledocholithiasis.

AIM

To investigate the effects of different ERCP procedures on the sphincter of Oddi.

METHODS

The clinical data of 91 patients who underwent ERCP at Yixing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between February 2018 and February 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. The patients were divided into endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST, n = 24) and endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD, n = 67) groups. The duration of operation, pancreatic development, pancreatic sphincterotomy, intubation difficulties, stone recurrence, and incidence of reflux cholangitis and cholecystitis were statistically analyzed in patients with a history of choledocholithiasis, pancreatitis, and Oddi sphincter dysfunction in the EST and EPBD groups.

RESULTS

Differences in hypertension, diabetes, increased bilirubin, small diameter of the common bile duct, or ampullary diverticulum between the two groups were not significant. Statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups concerning sex and age (< 60 years). Patients with a history of choledocholithiasis, pancreatitis, and Oddi sphincter dysfunction were higher in the EST group than in the EPBD group. The number of cases of pancreatic development, pancreatic duct sphincterotomy, and difficult intubation were higher in the EST group than in the EPBD group. The number of Oddi’s sphincter manometries, ERCP surgical outcomes, and guidewires entering the pancreatic duct several times in EST group were lower than those in the EPBD group. The numbers of stone recurrences, reflux cholangitis, and cholecystitis were higher in the EST group than in the EPBD group.

CONCLUSION

In summary, common bile duct stones, pancreatitis history, and multiple guided wire introductions into the pancreatic duct are independent risk factors for EST and EPBD. Based on this evidence, this study can provide actionable insights for clinicians and researchers.
Radiofrequency ablation combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for recurrent liver cancer
Authors: Guo Jin-You , Zhao Li-Li , Cai Hui-Jun , Zeng Hui , Mei Wei-Dong
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

The recurrence rate of liver cancer after surgery is high. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is an effective treatment for liver cancer; however, its efficacy in recurrent liver cancer remains unclear.

AIM

To investigate the clinical effect of TACE combined with RFA in the treatment of recurrent liver cancer.

METHODS

Ninety patients with recurrent liver cancer were divided into 2 groups according to treatment plan: Control (RFA alone); and experimental [TACE combined with RFA (TACE + RFA)]. The incidence of increased alanine aminotransferase levels, complications, and other indices were compared between the two groups before and after the procedures.

RESULTS

One month after the procedures, the short-term efficacy rate and Karnofsky Performance Status scores of the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05). Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and total bilirubin levels were lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05); The overall response rate was 82.22% and 66.67% in the experimental and control groups, respectively; The disease control rate was 93.33% and 82.22% in the experimental and control groups, respectively, the differences are statistically significant (P < 0.05). And there were no statistical differences in complications between the two groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

TACE + RFA was effective for the treatment of recurrent liver cancer and significantly reduced AFP levels and improved various indices of liver function.
Visualizing the landscape of appendiceal tumor research after 2010: A bibliometric study
Authors: Ji Jia-Nan , Yin Zhi-Bin
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Despite the rarity of appendiceal tumors, research in this field has intensified, resulting in a growing number of studies and published papers. Surprisingly, no comprehensive bibliometric analysis has specifically addressed appendiceal tumors.

AIM

To offer a thorough analysis of the current landscape and future trends in appendiceal tumor research.

METHODS

In our bibliometric analysis studies, we explored the Web of Science Core Collection database. The bibliographic details of the chosen publications were automatically converted and analyzed using the bibliometric package in the R environment. Additionally, we employed VoSviewer to create cooperation network maps for countries, institutions, and authors, as well as clustering maps for keywords. Furthermore, CiteSpace, another software tool, was utilized to build dual-map overlays of journals and analyze references with citation bursts.

RESULTS

Our study included 780 English-language articles published after 2010. The number of related publications and citations has increased in the past decade. The United States leads in this area, but there is a need to improve cooperation and communication among countries and institutions. Co-occurrence analysis also revealed close collaboration among different authors. Annals of Surgical Oncology was the most influential journal in this field. Analysis of references with high co-citations and references with citation bursts, consistent with analysis of keywords and hotspots, indicated that current research primarily centers on the classification and management of appendiceal mucinous neoplasms and consequent pseudomyxoma peritonei. Despite the abundance of clinical studies, a greater number of in-depth basic research studies should be conducted.

CONCLUSION

Current research on appendiceal tumors focuses on classification and management of appendiceal mucinous neoplasms and pseudomyxoma peritonei. Enhanced collaboration and basic research are vital for further advancement.
Determination of Fetal Gestational Age in Singleton Pregnancies: Accuracy of Ultrasonographic Placenta Thickness and Volume at a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Gbadegesin J.O , Adekanmi A.J , Akinmoladun J.A , Adelodun A.M
Published: June 2024

To determine the accuracy of placenta thickness and volume in the correct determination of gestational age among normal singleton pregnancies in Nigerians. In this perspective cross-sectional study, four hundred and twenty-three (423) consenting healthy singleton pregnant women within 13-40weeks gestational age (GA) with regular menstrual cycle and known last menstrual period were recruited and grouped into 27 groups based on their ultrasound GA. All participants had an obstetric ultrasound, and the main outcome variables were placenta thickness, placenta volume, and ultrasound GA. The data generated were analyzed, and P values ≤ 0.05 were statistically significant in this study. Four hundred and eight (408) normal singleton pregnant women with an average age of 29.6(+/-5) years completed the study. One hundred and seventy-seven (43.4%) were between 26-30 years, while 149(36.5%) were aged 31 years and above. The placenta thickness showed a strong positive linear relationship between GA (Y-axis) and placenta thickness (in mm) (x-axis) with a best-fit line of Y -= -0.19 + 1x. The placenta volume values (X) also had a positive but non-linear. There is a linear relationship between placenta thickness and GA and curvilinear relationships between placenta volume and GA. Routine assessment of placenta thickness and volume could serve as an effective alternative means of dating normal pregnancy in women with unreliable dates of the last menstrual period.
Prevalence, Symptoms and Lifestyle Aspect of Peptic Ulcer Disease among Undergraduate Students of a Nigerian University
Authors: Anaemene D.I , Ochogu E.U
Published: June 2024

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) may result to frequent illness, absenteeism in classes and consequent poor academic performance but its distribution and management among university students has been poorly studied. This study assessed the prevalence and symptoms of PUD as well as lifestyle and nutritional status of students with PUD. A total of 297 students (48% females and 52% males) were selected using multistage random sampling method. Information on knowledge, lifestyle and dietary habit was obtained via structured questionnaire. The study revealed 7.9% confirmed PUD cases. Students complained of symptoms suggestive of PUD such as bloating (23.7%), nausea (33.8%), burping (32.4%), bloody stool (15.8%) and heart burn (46.4%). About 68.2% of students with PUD had good knowledge of PUD while 44.1% practice healthy lifestyle. About 36.4%, 59.1% and 4.5% of the confirmed cases were underweight, normal and overweight, respectively. There was no significant relationship between knowledge of healthy lifestyle in PUD and nutritional status. Factors that affected the use of good practice in PUD included early morning lectures (81.8%), food vendors opening late (54.5%) and poor meal variety (50%). In conclusion, low prevalence rate of PUD but high occurrence of symptoms related to PUD was found among the students. An appreciable number of students with PUD were underweight and knowledge of healthy lifestyle did not influence nutritional status. Early morning lectures was the greatest challenge faced by undergraduate students living with PUD. Measures should be taken to detect students with PUD and tackle nutritional challenges faced by these students.
Records Availability and Information Use as Determinants of Decision Making Pattern of Polytechnic Administrators in Edo and Delta States, Nigeria
Authors: Akporhonor Blessing Amina , Adam Bernadette Chinasa
Published: June 2024

This study investigate record availability, information use and decision making pattern of administrators in Polytechnics in Edo and Delta  States. Correlational research design was used for the study. The population of the study was 279 administrators comprises four public  polytechnics in Edo and Delta States. Total enumeration sampling techniques was used for the study. The instrument for data collection was the questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage and statistical mean. Three hypothesis were formulated; 1 and 2  were tested using Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Cooefficient (PPMCC) at 0.05 level of significance, while hypotheses 3 was tested  using multiple regression. The study founf that the records available in the Polytechnics includes minutes of meetings, admission list, policies and procedures; the extent of use of information from records by Polytechnics administrators was high; the decision making  pattern of the administrators includes organization and storage of information, and review of previous decision outcomes; the extent of  contribution of records availability and information use to the administrators’ decision making is high; there is significant relationship  between records, information use and administrators’ decision making pattern; and there is significant relationship between  information, use and administrators’ decision making pattern. From the findings, it was recommended that Polytechnic Administrators  should ensure that every decision made in the polytechnic is premised upon the series of records available in the Polytechnic. Therefore,  the study has considered amongst other issues the concept of decision making pattern of Administrators in the Polytechnic system,   based on the use of available records.
A Multi-Criteria Framework for Evaluating Health Communication Strategies to Combat Vaccine Hesitancy
Authors: Esene Patricia , Adedokun Theophilus , Agbede Grace Temiloluwa
Published: June 2024

The effectiveness of vaccination programs against infectious illnesses is threatened by the evolution of vaccine resistance, which poses a  severe danger to international public health initiatives. Conventional methods of addressing vaccine resistance have frequently been  constrained by their onedimensional emphasis, which ignores the intricate interactions between biological, epidemiological, and  sociocultural elements influencing the development of resistance. In response, this research supports a multi-criteria strategy that  incorporates several viewpoints and standards to comprehend and manage vaccination resistance fully. Five strategies—provider-patient  communication, health education campaigns, social media campaigns, community outreach initiatives, and influencer partnerships—are  incorporated into the framework. Ten criteria are employed to evaluate these strategies: impact, resistance to misinformation, inclusivity,  penetration, community engagement, and facilitation of dialogue, credibility, establishment of trust, resource demands, and adaptability.  The CRITIC method is utilized to ascertain the relative significance of each criterion, whereas the CoCoSo and TOPSIS methods are  employed to prioritize the strategies according to their appropriateness. As indicated by the findings, the criterion of vaccine  effectiveness holds the greatest significance, with trust and credibility following suit. It is determined that health education campaigns  are the most effective approach to tackle vaccine hesitancy, whereas influencer partnerships are deemed to be the least effective.
Mobile and Digital Banner Marketing Strategies on Students Utilization of Library Information Resources and Services in State University Libraries in South-South Nigeria
Authors: Adindu Lasbery , Nyemezi Chidaka Okachukwu
Published: June 2024

This study was on Mobile and Digital Banner Marketing Strategies on Students’ Utilization of Library Information Resources and Services  in State University Libraries in South-South, Nigeria. Two objectives, two research questions and two hypotheses were formulated to  guide the study. The study employed survey research design. The population of the study comprised all 35673 registered students in the  library in 6 out of the 10 state universities in South-South Nigeria. The sample size consisted of 3567 registered students in library  representing 10% of the total population. Accidental sampling technique was used. The instrument used for data collection was a  researcher developed instrument captioned “Mobile and Digital Banner Marketing Strategies on Student’s Utilization of Library Information Resources and Services Questionnaire” The instrument yielded a reliability coefficient of.73 and .70 respectively. Mean and  Standard Deviation were used for answering research questions while Chi-square was used to test the hypotheses at .05 level of  significance. The result of the analysis revealed significant influence in mobile and digital banner marketing strategies on students’ utilization of library information resources and services. Recommendations were made to include that university libraries should provide  a rich promotional campaign activity by incorporating mobile and digital banner marketing strategies to enhance the utilization of library  information resources and services by students.