bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contrast enhanced ultrasound of liver lesions in patients treated for childhood malignancies
Authors: Mostafa Ayatullah G. , Abramson Zachary , Ghbrial Mina , Biswas Som , Chan Sherwin , Darji Himani , Gartrell Jessica , Karol Seth E , Li Yimei , Mulrooney Daniel A. , Patni Tushar , Zaghloul Tarek M , McCarville M. Beth
Published: August 2024

Background

Patients treated for cancer have a higher incidence of focal liver lesions than the general population and there is often concern for a malignant etiology. This can result in patient, caregiver and physician anxiety and is managed by a “wait and watch” approach, or immediate additional imaging, or biopsy, depending on the degree of clinical concern. Because it is a low-cost, easily accessible, radiation and sedation free modality, we investigated the value of contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to accurately distinguish benign from malignant liver lesions in patients treated for childhood malignancies.

Methods

We performed an IRB approved retrospective study of 68 subjects who were newly diagnosed, on treatment or off treatment for a pediatric malignancy and had liver lesions discovered on CT, MRI or non-contrast ultrasound and subsequently underwent CEUS between September 2013 and September 2021. Two experienced pediatric radiologists and a radiology trainee, blinded to the etiology of the liver lesions, independently reviewed the CEUS examinations and categorized lesions as benign, indeterminate, or malignant. The reference standard was biopsy for 19 lesions and clinical follow-up for 49. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of CEUS were calculated using only the benign and malignant CEUS classifications. Inter-reviewer agreement was assessed by Cohen’s kappa statistic.

Results

There were 26 males and 42 females, mean age, 14.9 years (range, 1–52 years). Fifty subjects were off therapy, twelve receiving treatment, and six with newly diagnosed cancer. By the reference standard, 59 (87%) lesions were benign and 9 (13%) were malignant. Sensitivities of CEUS for the three reviewers ranged from 83 to 100% (95% CI, 35.9-100%), specificities from 93.1 to 96.0% (95% CI, 83.5-99.6%), PPV 60.0-71.4% (95% CI, 29.0-96.3%), NPV 98.0-100% (95% CI, 89.2-100%) and accuracy from 93.8 to 94.6% (95% CI, 85.1-99.7%). The kappa statistic for agreement between the two experienced radiologists was moderate at 0.58.

Conclusions

CEUS is highly accurate in distinguishing benign from malignant etiologies of liver lesions in patients treated for pediatric malignancies.
Intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging in evaluating preoperative staging of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Song Tao , Lu Shuang , Qu Jinrong , Zhang Hongkai , Wang Zhaoqi , Jia Zhengyan , Li Hailiang , Zhao Yan , Qin Jianjun , Feng Wen , Wang Shaoyu , Yan Xu
Published: August 2024

Background

The aim of this research is to prospectively investigate the diagnostic performance of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) using the integrated slice-specific dynamic shimming (iShim) technique in staging primary esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and predicting presence of lymph node metastases from ESCC.

Methods

Sixty-three patients with ESCC were prospectively enrolled from April 2016 to April 2019. MR and IVIM using iShim technique (b = 0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800 s/mm2) were performed on 3.0T MRI system before operation. Primary tumour apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and IVIM parameters, including true diffusion coefficient (D), pseudodiffusion coefficient (D*), pseudodiffusion fraction (f) were measured by two independent radiologists. The differences in D, D*, f and ADC values of different T and N stages were assessed. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to evaluate the interobserver agreement between two readers. The diagnostic performances of D, D*, f and ADC values in primary tumour staging and prediction of lymph node metastasis of ESCC were determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

The inter-observer consensus was excellent for IVIM parameters and ADC (D: ICC = 0.922; D*: ICC = 0.892; f: ICC = 0.948; ADC: ICC = 0.958). The ADC, D, D* and f values of group T1 + T2 were significantly higher than those of group T3 + T4a [ADC: (2.55 ± 0.43) ×10− 3 mm2/s vs. (2.27 ± 0.40) ×10− 3 mm2/s, t = 2.670, P = 0.010; D: (1.82 ± 0.39) ×10− 3 mm2/s vs. (1.53 ± 0.33) ×10− 3 mm2/s, t = 3.189, P = 0.002; D*: 46.45 (30.30,55.53) ×10− 3 mm2/s vs. 32.30 (18.60,40.95) ×10− 3 mm2/s, z=-2.408, P = 0.016; f: 0.45 ± 0.12 vs. 0.37 ± 0.12, t = 2.538, P = 0.014]. The ADC, D and f values of the lymph nodes-positive (N+) group were significantly lower than those of lymph nodes-negative (N0) group [ADC: (2.10 ± 0.33) ×10− 3 mm2/s vs. (2.55 ± 0.40) ×10− 3 mm2/s, t=-4.564, P < 0.001; D: (1.44 ± 0.30) ×10− 3 mm2/s vs. (1.78 ± 0.37) ×10− 3 mm2/s, t=-3.726, P < 0.001; f: 0.32 ± 0.10 vs. 0.45 ± 0.11, t=-4.524, P < 0.001]. The combination of D, D* and f yielded the highest area under the curve (AUC) (0.814) in distinguishing group T1 + T2 from group T3 + T4a. D combined with f provided the highest diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.849) in identifying group N + and group N0 of ESCC.

Conclusions

IVIM may be used as an effective functional imaging technique to evaluate preoperative stage of primary tumour and predict presence of lymph node metastases from ESCC.
Phytochemical investigation and in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activities of methanol extract of whole plant Argyreia capitiformis (Poir.) Ooststr
Authors: Chowdhury Mustafiz , Chakma Biswantar , Islam Asraful , Sikder Iqbal , Sultan Ramiz Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Background

A. capitiformis (Poir.) Ooststr has a long history of usage as a medicinal cure for a wide variety of illnesses in many different cultures. Pharmacological properties and phytochemical characterization of the crude A. capitiformis whole plant are evalutted, in this paper.

Methods

Antioxidant activity was tested by the DPPH free radical scavenging method. In vitro anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic effects were assessed using Bovine serum albumin (BSA), protein denaturation method, and brine shrimp mortality assays, respectively with antihelmintic activity through Pheretima Posthuma worms. Acetic acid-induced writhing, hot plate and tail immersion testing assessed in vivo analgesia. CNS activity was evaluated through elevated plaze maize, open field, hole cross, and head dipping method.

Results

Phytochemiical investigation of A. capitiformis showed the presence of alkaloid, saponin, terpennoids, steroid and flavonoids etc. with the % yield of crude 2.04%.With an IC50 of 45.35 µg/ml, the whole plant methanolic preparation has antioxidant activity equivalent to ascorbic acid. Anti-arthritic protein blocking dropped from 74.25 ± 0.12% to 12.18 ± 0.12%. 1000 µg/ml extract demonstrated 54.05 ± 0.12*% anti-inflammatory activity with protein denaturation. In the cytotoxicity assay, the extract had 129.72 µg/ml LC50 and the positive group 34.67 µg/ml. Unlike Albendazole, the methanol extract triggered mature earthworms at 50 mg/ml. The extract’s analgesic efficacy at 200 and 400 mg/kg was statistically significant (p < 0.001) in the acetic acid writhing and tail immersion method. The hot plate technique yielded statistically significant results only at 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001). Only 400 mg/kg was statistically significant in the Elevated Plaze Maize and Hole Board Procedure (p < 0.01). The hole cross and open field methods yielded highly statistically significant outcomes at 200 and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this research, the whole crude methanol extract of A. capitiformis revealed phytochemicals, antioxidants, in vitro anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, cytotoxicity, anti-helminthic, in vivo analgesic, and CNS inhibitory activities.
A bibliometric review on gender equity in human resource management
Authors: Jabeen Ghousia , Goli Gurunadham , Kafila  , Gobinath R.
Published: August 2024

This research paper outlines the fundamental areas and current complexities of the gender equity in HRM domain; given the importance of HR and gender equity-centre stage of developing this paper, there has been a noticeable rise in publications in recent years, indicating a rising interest in gender equity concerns within HRM. The influence of leadership styles on gender equality, work-life balance, diversity and inclusion policies, and gender bias in recruitment and promotion are some of the major issues that have been discovered gender equity, as shown by the study’s emphasis on inter-connectedness. The connection between gender and other social characteristics such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status is a complex issue. Thus, we suggest potential directions for future research. Analysis was conducted on 1555 studies sourced from the Scopus database between 2005 and 2023. This study aimed to identify research initiatives that concentrate on achieving gender equality in HRM. To ascertain the most influential articles and authors, their citation and publication counts were determined. The predominant area of investigation in HRM research is gender equity, a key issue, while other factors, such as age, nationality, ethnicity, professional background, and cognition, are often neglected.
Differences in Prevalence of Histologic Gastric Cancer Subtypes Between Mestizo and Mayan Populations in Guatemala
Authors: Villagrán Blanco Carmen I. , Hernández Elisa , Wellmann Irmgardt Alicia , Une Clas , Mendez-Chacón Erika , Perez-Perez Guillermo , Daniels Michael , Fernandez-Botran Rafael
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

Although the intestinal subtype of gastric cancer (GC) is most prevalent around the world, a relatively high prevalence of the diffuse subtype has been reported in some populations of Central American countries, including Guatemala. This study aimed to investigate whether differences exist in the prevalence of the two GC subtypes in the two main ethnic groups in Guatemala, namely Mayan and Mestizo (known as Ladino in Guatemala), between whom significant socioeconomic disparities exist, and to determine whether there is an association with Helicobacter pylori /CagA seropositivity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Participants included 65 patients with GC and 135 age-/sex-matched controls. Data on ethnicity, H. pylori and CagA seropositivity status, as well as tumor subtype (diffuse or intestinal) were collected. Logistic regression models were fitted to examine the relationship between predictor variables (age, sex, ethnicity, H. pylori, and CagA) and the binary response variable (tumor type). Model selection was based on the Akaike information criterion.

RESULTS

The prevalence of diffuse GC was found to be significantly higher in the Mayan compared with the Mestizo population in Guatemala. Although seropositivity for CagA was significantly higher in patients with GC, there were no significant differences between the two GC subtypes.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that there are differences in the prevalence of intestinal and diffuse GC histologic subtypes between the two main ethnic groups in Guatemala. Further studies are warranted, given the potential higher prevalence of the more severe GC subtype in the most vulnerable population.
Comparison of Performance of Large Language Models on Lung-RADS Related Questions
Authors: Çamur Eren , Cesur Turay , Güneş Yasin Celal
Published: August 2024

This study evaluates LLM integration in interpreting Lung-RADS for lung cancer screening, highlighting their innovative role in enhancing radiological practice. Our findings reveal that Claude 3 Opus and Perplexity achieved a 96% accuracy rate, outperforming other models.
Mammography and Breast Ultrasonography Services in Ghana, Availability, and Geographic Access
Authors: Price Matthew D. , Mali Meghan E. , Dedey Florence , Dzefi-Tettey Klenam , Li Yao , Almeida Cameron , Brownson Kirstyn E. , Price Raymond R. , Sutherland Edward Kofi
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

Breast cancer is the leading type of cancer diagnosed and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in Ghana. Mammography and ultrasound have proven benefits in the early detection of breast cancer. This study evaluates mammography, breast ultrasound, and radiology work force availability throughout Ghana.

METHODS

A survey was administered to all hospitals in Ghana from November 2020 to October 2021. Mammography, breast ultrasound services, and the number of radiologists were assessed. For mammography, the number performed per month, cost incurred by the patient, where images were read, and how long it took to receive reports were also assessed. Health Facilities Regulatory Authority records on diagnostic centers were obtained to identify additional in-country breast imaging services.

RESULTS

Three hundred and twenty-eight of 346 hospitals participated in the survey (95%). Only 21 hospitals reported on-site mammography. One hospital reported performing >100 mammographies per month. The average cost to the patient ranged from 100 to 500 Cedis ($17-87 US dollars [USD]), although three hospitals performed mammography at no cost. An additional 10 mammography machines were identified at diagnostic centers throughout the country, with 41.3% of the female population living within 1 hour of mammography services. There were 135 hospital-based breast ultrasound services identified with 69.5% of the female population living within 1 hour of these services. There were an additional 190 ultrasound machines at diagnostic centers. There were 96 in-country radiologists identified.

CONCLUSION

Although there is limited availability and utilization of mammography in Ghana, there is more readily available ultrasonography. A focus on increasing breast cancer early diagnostic capabilities with breast ultrasound should be prioritized in addition to further expansion of the radiology workforce.
Association of Community-Level Social Vulnerability With Clinical Trial Discussion and Participation Among Cancer Survivors
Authors: Sekar Rishi R. , Maganty Avinash , Stensland Kristian D. , Herrel Lindsey A.
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

Community factors and structural barriers may contribute to disparities and underrepresentation in cancer clinical trials. We evaluate the influence of community-level social determinants of health, as measured by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Social Vulnerability Index (SVI), on disparities in cancer clinical trial discussion and participation.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional analysis of the 2021 Health Information National Trends Survey-SEER, a representative survey of cancer survivors sampled from three SEER registries. The primary outcomes included patient-reported clinical trial discussion and participation. The primary exposure was county-level SVI, linked to each survey respondent by ZIP code of residence and categorized into quintiles. Survey-weighted bivariate comparisons and multivariable logistic regression were performed to evaluate the association between SVI and clinical trial discussion and participation, adjusting for age, sex, race and ethnicity, education, income, and cancer stage.

RESULTS

We identified 1,220 respondents residing in 153 counties with a median SVI of 0.41 (IQR, 0.27-0.62), representing a population of over 400,000 cancer survivors on weighted analysis. Of the cohort, 15.1% reported clinical trial discussion and 7.7% reported clinical trial participation. Patients who are most socially vulnerable (fifth quintile of SVI) had significantly lower odds of clinical trial discussion (odds ratio [OR], 0.36 [95% CI, 0.15 to 0.87];
P
= .02) and clinical trial participation (OR, 0.15 [95% CI, 0.03 to 0.75];
P
= .02) compared with patients who are least socially vulnerable (first quintile of SVI).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest interventions to identify socially vulnerable communities for expansion of clinical trial opportunities and infrastructure may be an impactful strategy toward improving diversity and representation in cancer clinical trials.
Development of 24-Hour Rhythms in Cortisol Secretion Across Infancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Individual Participant Data
Authors: Kervezee Laura , Romijn Michelle , van de Weijer Kirsten N G , Chen Britney S J , Burchell George L , Tollenaar Marieke S , Tamayo-Ortiz Marcela , Philbrook Lauren E , de Weerth Carolina , Cao Yang , Rotteveel Joost , Eiden Rina D , Azar Rima , Bush Nicole R , Chis Adina , Kmita Grazyna , Clearfield Melissa W , Beijers Roseriet , Gröschl Michael , Wudy Stefan A , Kalsbeek Andries , Mörelius Evalotte , Finken Martijn J J
Published: August 2024

Context

In adults, cortisol levels show a pronounced 24-hour rhythm with a peak in the early morning. It is unknown at what age this early-morning peak in cortisol emerges during infancy, hampering the establishment of optimal dosing regimens for hydrocortisone replacement therapy in infants with an inborn form of adrenal insufficiency.

Objective

We aimed to characterize daily variation in salivary cortisol concentration across the first year of life.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review followed by an individual participant data meta-analysis of studies reporting on spontaneous (ie, not stress-induced) salivary cortisol concentrations in healthy infants aged 0-1 year. A one-stage approach using linear mixed-effects modeling was used to determine the interaction between age and time of day on cortisol concentrations.

Results

Through the systematic review, 54 eligible publications were identified, reporting on 29 177 cortisol observations. Individual participant data were obtained from 15 study cohorts, combining 17 079 cortisol measurements from 1904 infants. The morning/evening cortisol ratio increased significantly from 1.7 (95% CI: 1.3-2.1) at birth to 3.7 (95% CI: 3.0-4.5) at 6 to 9 months (P < .0001). Cosinor analysis using all available data revealed the gradual emergence of a 24-hour rhythm during infancy.

Conclusion

The early-morning peak in cortisol secretion gradually emerges from birth onwards to form a stable morning/evening ratio from age 6 to 9 months. This might have implications for hydrocortisone replacement therapy in infants with an inborn form of adrenal insufficiency.
Feasibility of Robotic Transorbital Surgery
Authors: Lee Min Ho , Xiao Limin , Fernandez-Miranda Juan C.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The transorbital approach (TOA) facilitates access to pathologies lateral to the optic nerve, a region that is difficult to access with an endonasal approach. In this study, we sought to investigate the feasibility of robotic-assisted surgery in lateral TOA.

METHODS:

Six colored-silicon-injected human postmortem heads were prepared for dissection. The DaVinci Xi model was used with a 0-degree camera, 8 mm in diameter. A black diamond microforceps with an 8-mm diameter and 10-mm jaw length was used. The entry point of V1 (superior orbital fissure), V3 (foramen ovale), and posterior root of the trigeminal ganglion were chosen as the surgical targets. The length from the entry opening to each target point was measured. The angles formed between pairs of target points were measured to obtain the horizontal angle (root of the trigeminal ganglion—entry—V1) and the vertical angle (root of the trigeminal ganglion—entry—V3).

RESULTS:

Dissection was performed on 12 sides (6 specimens). The median distance from the entry point was 55 mm (range 50-58 mm) to the entry point of V1 (superior orbital fissure), 65 mm (range 57-70 mm) to the entry point of V3 (foramen ovale), and 76 mm (range 70-87 mm) to the root of the trigeminal ganglion. Meanwhile, the median of surgical angle between the entry point and the target was 19.1° (range 11.8-30.4°) on the horizontal angle and 16.5° (range 6.2-21.6°) on the vertical angle.

CONCLUSION:

This study found that application of lateral TOA in robotic-assisted surgery is premature because of the large size of the tool. However, although the entrance in lateral TOA is narrow, the internal surgical space is wide; this offers potential for design of appropriate surgical tools to allow increase tool usage.
Adaxial-abaxial bipolar leaf genes encode a putative cytokinin receptor and HD-Zip III, and control the formation of ectopic shoot meristems in rice
Authors: Tezuka Takumi , Sato Rie , Itoh Jun-ichi , Kobayashi Toshiki , Watanabe Tomokazu , Chiba Kaito , Shimizu Haruki , Nabeta Takuma , Sunohara Hidehiko , Wabiko Hiroetsu , Nagasawa Nobuhiro , Satoh-Nagasawa Namiko
Published: August 2024

Shoot apical meristems (SAMs) continuously initiate organ formation and maintain pluripotency through dynamic genetic regulations and cell-to-cell communications. The activity of meristems directly affects the plant's structure by determining the number and arrangement of organs and tissues. We have taken a forward genetic approach to dissect the genetic pathway that controls cell differentiation around the SAM. The rice mutants, adaxial-abaxial bipolar leaf 1 and 2 (abl1 and abl2), produce an ectopic leaf that is fused back-to-back with the fourth leaf, the first leaf produced after embryogenesis. The abaxial–abaxial fusion is associated with the formation of an ectopic shoot meristem at the adaxial base of the fourth leaf primordium. We cloned the ABL1 and ABL2 genes of rice by mapping their chromosomal positions. ABL1 encodes OsHK6, a histidine kinase, and ABL2 encodes a transcription factor, OSHB3 (Class III homeodomain leucine zipper). Expression analyses of these mutant genes as well as OSH1, a rice ortholog of the Arabidopsis STM gene, unveiled a regulatory circuit that controls the formation of an ectopic meristem near the SAM at germination.
eEF1α2 is required for actin cytoskeleton homeostasis in the aging muscle
Authors: Katow Hidetaka , Ryoo Hyung Don
Published: August 2024

The translation elongation factor eEF1α (eukaryotic elongation factor 1α) mediates mRNA translation by delivering aminoacyl-tRNAs to ribosomes. eEF1α also has other reported roles, including the regulation of actin dynamics. However, these distinct roles of eEF1α are often challenging to uncouple and remain poorly understood in aging metazoan tissues. The genomes of mammals and Drosophila encode two eEF1α paralogs, with eEF1α1 expressed ubiquitously and eEF1α2 expression more limited to neurons and muscle cells. Here, we report that eEF1α2 plays a unique role in maintaining myofibril homeostasis during aging in Drosophila. Specifically, we generated an eEF1α2 null allele, which was viable and showed two distinct muscle phenotypes. In young flies, the mutants had thinner myofibrils in indirect flight muscles that could be rescued by expressing eEF1α1. With aging, the muscles of the mutant flies began showing abnormal distribution of actin and myosin in muscles, but without a change in actin and myosin protein levels. This age-related phenotype could not be rescued by eEF1α1 overexpression. These findings support an unconventional role of Drosophila eEF1α2 in age-related homeostasis of muscle myofibers.
High-resolution reconstruction of aC. elegansribosome sheds light on evolutionary dynamics and tissue specificity
Authors: Sehgal Enisha , Wohlenberg Chloe , Soukup Evan M. , Viscardi Marcus J. , Serrão Vitor Hugo Balasco , Arribere Joshua A.
Published: August 2024

Caenorhabditis elegansis an important model organism for human health and disease, with foundational contributions to the understanding of gene expression and tissue patterning in animals. An invaluable tool in modern gene expression research is the presence of a high-resolution ribosome structure, though no such structure exists forC. elegans. Here, we present a high-resolution single-particle cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) reconstruction and molecular model of aC. elegansribosome, revealing a significantly streamlined animal ribosome. Many facets of ribosome structure are conserved inC. elegans, including overall ribosomal architecture and the mechanism of cycloheximide, whereas other facets, such as expansion segments and eL28, are rapidly evolving. We identify uL5 and uL23 as two instances of tissue-specific ribosomal protein paralog expression conserved inCaenorhabditis, suggesting thatC. elegansribosomes vary across tissues. TheC. elegansribosome structure will provide a basis for future structural, biochemical, and genetic studies of translation in this important animal system.
Caracterização do perfil sociodemográfico dos usuários de profilaxia pré-exposição ao HIV (PrEP) no Ceará
Authors: Lira Junior Jose Wilson , Gurgel Dias Florêncio Caroline Mary , Rocha Abreu Nágila Tatielle
Published: August 2024

Introdução: a PrEP é uma estratégia de prevenção biomédica que consiste no uso de antirretrovirais (ARV) orais com o objetivo de mitigar o risco de adquirir o HIV e, consequentemente, de desenvolver a AIDS. O presente estudo tem como objetivo descrever o perfil sociodemográfico dos usuários com dispensação da PrEP no Ceará, no período de 2018 a 2023. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo transversal descritivo. Os dados foram obtidos por meio do Departamento de HIV/Aids, Tuberculose, Hepatites Virais e Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (DATHI) do Ministério da Saúde por meio do Painel de monitoramento da PrEP. Resultados: observou-se um predomínio de usuários gays e homens que fazem sexo com homens, mas não se consideram gays; autodeclarados como pardos, com alta escolaridade e com faixa etária entre 30 e 39 anos. As dispensações da PrEP apresentaram progressão no período analisado, apesar dos anos de pandemia. Conclusão: embora a PrEP tenha-se mostrado eficaz no controle e declínio no número de infecções pelo HIV, esses dados demonstram que há uma lacuna entre quem se beneficia dela. É um desafio fazer com que a PrEP chegue a quem se pode beneficiar dela e com maior probabilidade de exposição ao HIV indivíduos de baixa escolaridade, pessoas trans, travestis, jovens adultos /adolescentes e não brancos.
Σύγκριση και αξιολόγηση μοντέλων συμβουλευτικής για άτομα με αναπηρία και των οικογενειών τους
Authors: Πρασσά Ελένη
Published: August 2024

Ο όρος «αναπηρία» σχετίζεται με ένα είδος κοινωνικής καταπίεσης που επιβάλλει περιορισμούς στη δραστηριότητα και την αυθόρμητη έκφραση των ατόμων με αναπηρία, με μοναδικό στόχο η συμπεριφορά τους να μιμείται τη συμπεριφορά των μη ανάπηρων ατόμων, υποβαθμίζοντας όμως την εκδήλωση των ψυχικών διαθέσεών τους και αδιαφορώντας για τη συναισθηματική τους κατάσταση. Οι περισσότερες παρεμβάσεις αφορούν στην απόκτηση δεξιοτήτων αυτοεξυπηρέτησης, στην εξάσκηση σε βασικά μαθησιακά ζητήματα, στη ρύθμιση της συμπεριφοράς και στην εγκαθίδρυση αποδεκτών κοινωνικά προτύπων, παρεμβάσεις που σπάνια οδηγούν στην πολυπόθητη ενσωμάτωση. Οι γνωστικές προσεγγίσεις τροποποιούν τη συμπεριφορά, αλλά δεν εγγυώνται την ευτυχία. Η Συμβουλευτική συνίσταται σε μια σειρά άμεσων επαφών με το άτομο, που αποσκοπούν στην προσφορά βοήθειας, προκειμένου να υπάρξουν αλλαγές στις στάσεις και τη συμπεριφορά του. Η Συμβουλευτική των οικογενειών που έχουν παιδιά με αναπηρία αποτελεί ένα ξεχωριστό κομμάτι της Συμβουλευτικής που τα τελευταία χρόνια έχει αρχίσει να αναπτύσσεται ραγδαία. Η ανάγκη της οικογένειας για συμβουλευτική καθοδήγηση και υποστήριξη είναι διαρκής και μακροχρόνια, καθώς η κατανόηση των ιδιαιτεροτήτων της διαταραχής, η αποδοχή των δυσκολιών και η προσαρμογή δεν είναι εύκολη διαδικασία. Οι γονείς χρειάζονται χρόνο και υποστήριξη, προκειμένου να αποδεχθούν τα προβλήματα και να αναθεωρήσουν τις προσδοκίες για το μέλλον του παιδιού και της οικογένειας συνολικά. Η συνεργασία μεταξύ επαγγελματιών και γονέων αποτελεί έναν από τους καίριους παράγοντες για την επιτυχή έκβαση ενός προγράμματος παρέμβασης. Σε καμία περίπτωση δεν υπάρχουν περιθώρια για ανταγωνιστικές σχέσεις μεταξύ των ειδικών και των επιθυμίες των γονέων.
Ο λόγος των ελληνικών ΜΜΕ για τη Γερμανία και τους Γερμανούς
Authors: Πλασκασοβίτη Αμαλία
Published: August 2024

Κύριος στόχος της παρούσας διατριβής είναι η μελέτη της κατασκευής της γερμανικότητας στον λόγο των ελληνικών ΜΜΕ. O αθλητικός δημοσιογραφικός λόγος επιλέχθηκε ως ιδανικό συμβολικό πεδίο για την κατασκευή εθνικών ταυτοτήτων. Η ανάλυση του υλικού, που αποτελείται από κείμενα έντυπου και τηλεοπτικού λόγου, βασίστηκε στην Κριτική Ανάλυση Λόγου, και ειδικότερα στη Λογοϊστορική προσέγγιση των Wodak et al.(1998), Reisigl / Wodak (2001) και Reisigl / Wodak (2020). Το κύριο ενδιαφέρον ήταν η αναζήτηση των στρατηγικών που χρησιμοποιούνται για την κατασκευή της γερμανικότητας στον λόγο (στρατηγικές ονομάτισης, κατηγόρησης, μετασχηματισμού, προοπτικοποίησης, ενίσχυσης / μετριασμού και επιχειρηματολογικές στρατηγικές), καθώς και των γλωσσικών και ρητορικών μέσων με τα οποία πραγματώνονται οι στρατηγικές αυτές, δίνοντας έμφαση στις μεταφορές, τις μετωνυμίες και το χιούμορ. Εντοπίστηκε η χρήση δύο κυρίαρχων επιχειρηματολογικών τόπων: του τόπου της ιστορίας και του τόπου του κλίματος. Στον τόπο της ιστορίας εντάσσονται οι ρητές ή υπόρρητες αναφορές στο ιστορικό πλαίσιο του Β’ Παγκοσμίου Πολέμου, ενώ ο τόπος του κλίματος αναφέρεται σε έναν αντιθετικό επιχειρηματολογικό άξονα Νότιας / Μεσογειακής και Βόρειας ιδιοσυγκρασίας (ή habitus), στον οποίο τοποθετούνται οι εθνικές ομάδες που συμμετέχουν στην αθλητική διοργάνωση. Η ανάλυση αποκάλυψε την αναπαράσταση της γερμανικότητας με παγιωμένα στερεότυπα στοιχεία, τα οποία ενίοτε αντιπαραβάλλονται με την ελληνικότητα. Εκτός αυτού, η κατασκευή της γερμανικότητας επιτυγχάνεται μέσω στρατηγικών ενίσχυσης, μετριασμού ή μετασχηματισμού, ενώ αποτελεί συχνά αντικείμενο μεταγλωσσικής κριτικής. Τα συμπεράσματα συγκρίθηκαν με διαπιστώσεις πιο πρόσφατων ερευνών για τον λόγο για τους Γερμανούς κατά τη διάρκεια της ευρωπαϊκής οικονομικής κρίσης του 2009. Επιπλέον, τα ευρήματα της μελέτης μπορούν να φανούν χρήσιμα σε εκπαιδευτικούς της γερμανικής ως ξένης γλώσσας, καθώς παρέχουν πληροφορίες για τις αναπαραστάσεις της γερμανικότητας στα ελληνικά ΜΜΕ και την επίδρασή τους στις στάσεις των Ελλήνων σπουδαστών της γερμανικής γλώσσας.
Information and communications technology knowledge transfer in complex organisations
Authors: Ζωηρού Άννα
Published: August 2024

Αυτή η Διδακτορική Διατριβή αναλύει την ενδοεταιρική μεταφορά και διοχέτευση γνώσεων τεχνολογικών συστημάτων πληροφορικής και επικοινωνίας, όπως είναι και το σύστημα KMS (Διαχείρισης Γνώσεων), σε σχέση με τις εξής παραμέτρους: της ικανότητας απορρόφησης, της διαδικαστικής δικαιοσύνης, της προθυμίας, των διαπροσωπικών σχέσεων και των τυποποιημένων κανόνων. Η Διατριβή αυτή αποτελείται από τη θεωρητική προσέγγιση του θέματος και από δυο πρακτικές εμπειρικές αναλύσεις, μία ποιοτική και μία ποσοτική. Για τη διεξαγωγή της ποσοτικής ανάλυσης, τα δεδομένα συλλέχθηκαν μέσω ενός ερευνητικού ερωτηματολογίου το οποίο συμπληρώθηκε από 50 ανώτερα στελέχη ενός μεγάλου οργανισμού, και πιο συγκεκριμένα από τους Γενικούς Διευθυντές των Υποκαταστημάτων ενός Ελληνικού Τραπεζικού Ιδρύματος. Το ερωτηματολόγιο περιείχε ερωτήσεις σχετικά με πρόσφατη υιοθέτηση ενός συστήματος διαχείρισης πελατειακών σχέσεων CRM. Η έρευνα έδειξε ότι η παρουσία διαδικαστικής δικαιοσύνης, ικανότητας απορρόφησης και καλών διαπροσωπικών σχέσεων επηρέασαν σημαντικά την αποτελεσματικότητα της μεταφοράς γνώσεων και εν τέλει την υιοθέτηση του συστήματος διαχείρισης γνώσεων. Αυτά τα αποτελέσματα ταυτίζονται απόλυτα με τα συμπεράσματα των Kim και Mauborgne (1991, 1996, 1998) αναφορικά με τη διαδικαστική δικαιοσύνη και του Szulanski (1996) αναφορικά με την ικανότητα απορρόφησης. Παρ' όλα ταύτα, οι δυο παράμετροι της προθυμίας και των τυποποιημένων κανόνων δεν αποδείχθηκε ότι σχετίζονται με την αποτελεσματικότερη μεταφορά γνώσεων και υιοθέτηση. Η ποιοτική ανάλυση βασίζεται στη μέθοδο των συνεντεύξεων. Οι αναλυτικές περιγραφές των 10 Γενικών Διευθυντών Υποκαταστημάτων, κατόπιν της ποσοτικής ανάλυσης, ανέδειξε το πώς η άποψη των Διευθυντών σχετικά με τις έννοιες υπό έρευνα (ικανότητα απορρόφησης, διαδικαστική δικαιοσύνη, προθυμία, τυποποιημένοι κανόνες και διαπροσωπικές ικανότητες), επηρεάζει την ενδο-εταιρική μεταφορά της τεχνολογίας. Οι απαντήσεις που προέκυψαν από τις συνεντεύξεις, ταξινομήθηκαν και έτσι αναδείχθηκαν 3 γενικές απόψεις που σχετίζονται με την κάθε παράμετρο που ο κάθε Διευθυντής πιστεύει ότι παίζει τον σημαντικότερο ρόλο. Αυτές οι παράμετροι είναι η προθυμία, η ικανότητα απορρόφησης και η διαδικαστική δικαιοσύνη. Η ταξινόμηση οδηγεί στην πρόταση συγκεκριμένων διοικητικών ενεργειών από την Διδάκτορα, οι οποίες αν ακολουθηθούν δύναται να αρθούν τα εμπόδια που είναι συνυφασμένα με την ενδο-εταιρική μεταφορά γνώσης.
The influence of some tumor characteristics on the long-term survival of proximal colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Ratsiborskyi D. , Mashukov A.
Published: August 2024

The article is devoted to the study of survival in colorectal cancer and the influence of some common clinical factors on the life expectancy. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an urgent problem of today and modern oncology, as the incidence of CRC is constantly increasing. It is believed that the development of CRC in 50% of all cases is related to lifestyle and long-term exposure to carcinogens. Genetic factors play a decisive role in 5 to 20% of cases. It has been established that from 20 to 50% of patients with CRC already have distant metastases at the initial presentation. The understanding of the biology of colon cancer is based on the analysis of the degree of aggressiveness of its course, patient survival, the effect of performed operative and combined treatment methods on the course of the disease, and the presence of some other factors that are not yet completely understood by clinicians (the influence of hidden metastasis, circulating cancer cells, genetic causes, etc.). Proximal colon tumors are tumors that located in the cecum, ascending, and hepatic flexure of the colon, that is, in fact, tumors of the right half of the colon. The more proximally the tumor was located in the right half of the colon, the longer the patients lived. At a follow-up period of 24 months, the duration of follow-up for patients with cecum, ascending colon, and hepatic angle tumors was 71.43%, 63.64%, and 72.73%, respectively. For the observation period of 32 months: 42.86%, 36.36%, 18.18%. For the observation period of 55 months: 14.29%, 9.09%, 0%, respectively. Thus, biology was the key factor, as the groups were equivalent in terms of stage, frequency of lymph node involvement, and degree of tumor differentiation. Therefore, from our point of view, the separation of right-sided RTK, r-RTK into a apparant nosoform has a clinically significant character: it is in the right half of the colon that the toxicoanemic form occurs more often; and less often (almost never) – obturation, much more characteristic of left-sided cancer, l-RTK. Typically, right-sided colon tumors have the following genomic context: MLH1 hypermethylation, BRAF mutation, and high-grade MSI, while left-sided colon tumors are p53 and KRAS mutant.
Microgrid Planner: An Open-Source Software Platform
Authors: Reich Daniel , Frye Leah
Published: August 2024

We introduce an open-source software platform for developing microgrid planning tools. Our platform is composed of a computational layer developed in Python; a MySQL database layer; a REST API developed in Flask; a web app front end developed in Flask, HTML templates, and JavaScript; containerized deployment through Docker; and high-performance computing integration using Slurm. Our base capabilities include user accounts with authentication, user-defined distributed energy resource components and microgrids, user uploads of power load data, a core simulation method, and a microgrid sizing method. These capabilities are all integrated into a user-friendly web application, which is designed to be customized and extended. Whereas our platform already includes a useful set of microgrid planning tools, our vision is for it to bridge the active academic analytical modeling research for microgrid planning into deployable software tools that can be readily used by practitioners. In addition to describing our current capabilities, this paper details how our platform design facilitates easy adoption by other researchers developing analytical methods for microgrid planning.

History: Accepted by Ted Ralphs, Area Editor for Software Tools.

Funding: This research was supported by the NextSTEP Program, sponsored by the Office of Naval Research; by Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command as part of the Navy Shore Energy Technology Transition and Integration program; and by the Director of Operational Energy, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Navy.

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplemental Information ( https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2023.0336 ) as well as from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC/2023.0336 ). The complete IJOC Software and Data Repository is available at https://informsjoc.github.io/ .
Fast Delivery: B2B Field Experiments Amid COVID-19 Outbreak and New Normal
Authors: Li Meng , Zhang Shichen
Published: August 2024

Procuring essential products during disasters can save lives and livelihoods; nevertheless, limited research has explored this critical issue. In this paper, we collaborate with a buying company to run a unique B2B field experiment during the early COVID-19 outbreak that prompts an urgent need for personal protective equipment. We find that suppliers would deliver products faster by quoting a significantly shorter lead time when the buying company purchases products for donation rather than for resale. Similarly, suppliers quote a shorter lead time when the company provides crisis information—the number of COVID-19 cases in the region with high crisis levels—to highlight the urgent need for products. Interestingly, faster delivery does not come at the expense of the buying company. Buyers receive the products faster but also pay less. We collaborate with the same company to rerun the field experiment in the new normal and find that the buyer’s intent of donation leads to shorter lead time but not to lower wholesale price. Moreover, providing the COVID-19 information of the local community to suppliers has no impact on their decisions. Overall, our paper provides the first empirical evidence on suppliers’ lead time and wholesale price decisions during and after a disaster, thereby helping companies to deliver emergency products in a timely and efficient manner as well as designing their philanthropic and information strategies.

This paper was accepted by Jayashankar Swaminathan, operations management.

Funding: This work was supported by a Behavioral Research Assistance Grant from the C. T. Bauer College of Business, University of Houston, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China [72201140].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.03523 .
How Does Artificial Intelligence Shape Audit Firms?
Authors: Law Kelvin K. F. , Shen Michael
Published: August 2024

Does artificial intelligence (AI) displace auditors? We exploit the staggered hiring of AI employees at audit office locations across the United States as a proxy for the use of AI at local audit offices. The main findings are as follows. First, relative to audit offices that do not yet hire AI employees, those that do hire AI employees have a 4.3% increase in the number of auditor jobs, particularly among junior and midlevel auditors. Second, using AI is associated with an increased demand for soft skills (e.g., cognitive skills) in auditor jobs. Third, audit offices that use AI have more accurate going concern and internal control opinions. Semistructured interviews of 11 seasoned audit partners confirm that investment in AI is centralized at the national level, but the decision to deploy it often resides at the local audit office level. Notably, none of the partners believe that AI has replaced or will replace human auditors. Overall, our study—comprising both empirical and qualitative data—suggests that using AI does not replace auditors, but rather changes the skills required for these jobs and improves audit quality.

This paper was accepted by Suraj Srinivasan, accounting.

Funding: K. K. F. Law’s research is supported by the Start-Up Grant from Nanyang Technological University and the Ministry of Education (MOE), Singapore, under its Academic Research Fund Tier 1 [Grant RG128/20]. M. Shen’s research is supported by the Start-Up Grant from the National University of Singapore [Grant A-0003914-00-00] and the MOE under its Academic Research Fund Tier 1 [Grant A-8000098-00-00].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.04040 .
Ischaemic strokes caused by spontaneous cerebral air embolism, a rare complication of interstitial lung diseas
Authors: Tan Serena Yi Ling , Jen Jian Ping , Khadjooi Kayvan
Published: August 2024

Air embolism is a rare cause of ischaemic stroke. It is known that air can enter the cerebral arterial circulation from pulmonary venous circulation through a bronchovenous fistula, or in cases of pulmonary barotrauma in deep-sea diving. We describe a case of spontaneous cerebral air embolism against a background of advanced interstitial lung disease (ILD). To our knowledge, this case demonstrates a mechanism of stroke in ILD patients that has not been previously described.
Revealing the Meaning of Mosque “Cash Balance”: A Phenomenological Approach
Authors: Mardian Sepky , Nur Mawardi , Ahnaf Ahnaf
Published: August 2024

This study aims to reveal and comprehend the metaphorical meaning of the cash balance for mosque. This research conducted using a phenomenological approach that explores information as it is from managers through interviews, interactions, and researcher observations as well as visual documentation. Data processing, analysis, and discussion are carried out by researchers using a worksheet for the phenomenological analysis stage. The findings are discussed by critically confirming the related accounting concepts and previous research findings. The metaphorical meaning of the cash balance that can be extracted from the source is the cash balance as a trust, as programs evidence and as a beneficial evidence. This metaphorical meaning demands that managers manage mosque funds with the spirit of providing prosperity to society and the community, with faith in Allah and by inviting congregants to contribute to each other. In a broader sense, this metaphorical meaning indicates the embodiment of the manager's role and the functioning of the mosque beyond just a place of worship. The mosque has been made to function as a center for increasing the capacity of society through study and obtaining a sanad as well as a center for empowering benefits. This study contributes to find other meanings of cash balances outside the materialistic perspective that requires high cash balances as one of the mosque management performance indicators.
The Role of Institutional Ownership in Moderating ESG Disclosure’s Impact on Firm Value
Authors: Fauziah Fara , Novita Novita , Fambudi Imam Nurcahyo
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the role of institutional ownership as a moderating variable that amplifies the effect of ESG disclosure on firm value within the Consumer Cyclical industry subsector over the period 2019-2021. Employing a quantitative approach, the study examines the relationship between ESG disclosure and firm value, with institutional ownership as the moderating variable. Leverage, measured by the debt-to-equity ratio (DER), is utilized as a control variable. The research focuses on companies in the Consumer Cyclical subsector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange during the specified period, with a sample comprising 38 companies selected through purposive sampling. Secondary data are used in the analysis. The findings reveal a positive effect of ESG disclosure on firm value. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that institutional ownership strengthens the association between ESG disclosure and firm value. This research contributes to the literature by emphasizing the critical role of institutional ownership in moderating the relationship between ESG disclosure and firm value.
Analysis of The Acceptance of Real Estate Online Platforms Among Millennials Using Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT)
Authors: Mushlih Haidar , Nadilfatin Reny
Published: August 2024

The housing business is a complex industry that involves a gradual process, starting from conceptualizing the area to implementing effective sales strategies. This sector can still be considered conventional, but the advancement of digitalization demands adaptation from property industry players. Real estate online platforms (REOP) have emerged as platforms that bridge the gap for industry players to go digital. Trust serves as the foundation for the intention to initiate change. This research aims to analyze the factors influencing the millennial generation in using REOP. The theoretical framework employed in this study is the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), with variables tested including performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitation conditions. The results of this research are expected to provide insights into the behavioral intentions of the millennial generation in using REOP. The findings will benefit REOP platforms by informing their managerial decisions to improve services and attract millennial users, who are currently the target market for property purchases.
Decision making in feline pelvic fracture repair
Authors: Barnes Duncan
Published: August 2024

Pelvic fractures are common in cats and are usually traumatic in origin. The box-like construction of the pelvis means that if a fracture is present in one region, other fractures are likely present elsewhere in the pelvis. Surgery is indicated for fractures of the weight-bearing axis (sacroiliac fracture or luxation, iliac body fractures, acetabular fractures), those resulting in pelvic narrowing, and those which result in neurological dysfunction or severe pain. Fractures of the pelvic floor and ischia are often treated conservatively. Challenges faced during feline pelvic fracture repair include difficulty securing implants in the thin bone of the iliac wing, the limited bone stock for implant placement, the need to avoid damage to the coxofemoral joint and the proximity of the lumbosacral trunk and sciatic nerves to the fracture site. A thorough understanding of the anatomy of the pelvis and careful pre-operative planning maximises the chance of a successful outcome following surgery.
Child and Family Predictors for Mastery Motivation in Children With Developmental Delays
Authors: Wang Pei-Jung , Liao Hua-Fang , Chen Li-Chiou , Kang Lin-Ju , Lu Lu , Barrett Karen Caplovitz
Published: August 2024

Motivation is a key factor for child development, but very few studies have examined child and family predictors of both child task and perceived motivation. Thus, the three aims of this 6-month longitudinal study in preschoolers with global developmental delays (GDD) were to explore: 1) differences between task and perceived motivation in cognitive domain; 2) differences among three domains of perceived motivation: cognitive, gross motor, and social; and 3) early child and family predictors of cognitive task motivation and the three domains of perceived motivation 6 months later. Results indicated that preschoolers with GDD showed higher cognitive task motivation than cognitive perceived motivation, and lower perceived cognitive motivation than the other two perceived motivation domains. Different child and family factors predicted cognitive task motivation and the three domains of perceived motivation. Practitioners should educate caregivers on how to observe children’s motivation to enhance children’s active participation.