bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiomics in stereotactic body radiotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and radiomic quality score study
Authors: Cheung Ben Man Fei
Published: February 2024

Purpose: Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has been widely utilized for curative treatment of early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It has achieved good local control rate comparable to surgery. Currently, no standard risk model exists for SBRT outcome or complication prediction. Radiomics has the potential to improve clinical outcome prognostication. Here, we reviewed the current literature on the radiomic analyses of thoracic SBRT through the use of radiomic quality score (RQS).Materials and Methods: Literature search was conducted on PubMed and Embase to retrieve radiomics studies on SBRT for early NSCLC. The literature search included studies up to June 2021. Only full papers published in peer reviewed journals were included. Studies that included metastatic lung cancers or non-lung cancers were excluded. Two independent investigators evaluated each study using the RQS and resolved discrepancies through discussion. Results: A total number of 25 studies were analysed. The mean RQS was 7.76 of a maximum score of 36. This corresponds to 21.56% of the maximum score. Lack of feature reduction strategies, external validation and open data sharing were identified as key limitations of the reviewed studies. Meanwhile, various common radiomic signatures across different studies such as gray level co-occurrence matrix Homogeneity and energy have been identified. Multiple robust radiomic models have also been reviewed that may improve outcome or complication prediction. Conclusion: Radiomics in thoracic SBRT has a very promising future as a prognostication tool. However, larger multicenter prospective studies are required to confirm radiomic signatures. Improvement in future study methodologies can also facilitate its wider application.
Analysis of regulatory implementation of regulation 536/2014 by European Union countries and Ukraine regarding the examination of clinical trials data and information
Authors: Hala Liliia , Nabok Oleksandr
Published: February 2024

The article presents the results of a comparative analysis of regulatory requirements for expertise of clinical trials documentation, submitted for regulatory authority and ethic committees’ approval in EU member countries and Ukraine, outlining the main trends, considering the updated Regulation (EU) No 536/2014, which came into effect on January 31, 2023. Among the positive changes are simplification of safety reporting requirements, use of artificial intelligence in the process of clinical trials documentation examination for obtaining regulatory authority and ethic commission approval, introduction of a single portal for submitting materials for clinical trials, and functioning of database for the submission and review of initial Clinical Trial Application documents and obtaining authorization within the EU to facilitate the interaction between applicants and regulatory authority are highlighted. To harmonize Ukraine’s regulatory requirements with EU legislation, it is advisable to use a single portal for data exchange and document submission for applicants in regards to clinical trials, regulatory authority and local ethics committees. This will expedite the examination process of clinical trial documentation and simplify the monitoring of document review progress.
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Saikouk Tarik , Fattam Nejib
Published: February 2024

Énoncé Monastirakio-Delta, un grand constructeur aéronautique représenté par son PDG M. Dimitripolous, décide de confier la conception et le pilotage de sa SC à un Prestataire de Services Logistiques de type Fourth Party Logistics (4PL) dénommé Ellinikos-Logis. Le 4PL se définit comme étant « un intégrateur qui rassemble ses propres ressources, capacités, technologies et celles d’autres prestataires de services pour concevoir et gérer des chaînes logistiques complexes » (Bade et Mueller, 1999, p. 78). C’est une configuration organisationnelle d’intermédiation encastrée dans un système de relations sociales et économiques qui sont à la fois interpersonnelles et inter-organisationnelles à savoir les Supply Chains (SC) (Saikouk et Fattam, 2022). Cet acteur majeur mobilise des relations, basées principalement sur la confiance, afin de compenser le manque des ressources physiques (Fattam et Paché, 2017 ; Ounnar et Pujo, 2018). Étant organisateur logistique incontournable sans moyens physiques et régulateur de flux, le 4PL gère une myriade de fournisseurs et opère une parfaite communication au niveau des interfaces (Krakovics et al ., 2008). Il offre des services dépassant la vision exclusivement opérationnelle pour proposer des solutions de conseils aussi bien que la conception des modèles d’optimisation (Huang et al ., 2015 ; Saikouk et Fattam, 2022 ; Saglietto, 2009). Comme c’est le cas de plusieurs PDG des grands groupes, issus de grandes écoles, ayant des diplômes MBA, etc., un tel choix est souvent fait sur la base de critères assez objectifs et communément acceptables par les collaborateurs. Ellinikos-Logis, représenté par son Vice-Président M. Triantafellou, est une grande entreprise disposant d’une réputation infaillible, d’un grand réseau mondial de partenaires, d’actifs logistiques partout dans le globe, etc. Les compétences organisationnelles et techniques de ce coordinateur de réseaux complexes sont réunies pour une meilleure offre de prestations pour le compte de son client. Le 4PL, qui joue un rôle de chef d’orchestre dans la SC, réunit ainsi une meilleure combinaison de partenaires assurant la rentabilité et la durabilité des SC (Figure 1).
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Kin Vichara , Manzanares Jean-Antoine
Published: February 2024

Énoncé
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Mevel Olivier , Morvan Thierry
Published: February 2024

Énoncé
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Lambourdière Éric , Corbin Elsa
Published: February 2024

Énoncé
Cas en logistique et Supply Chain Management
Authors: Salaun Vincent
Published: February 2024

Énoncé Dans un souci de confidentialité du cas, le nom et tous les éléments permettant d’identifier l’organisation de cet évènement ont été modifiés. Ainsi, d’un point de vue purement technique, le Tournoi International du Littoral (par la suite noté TIL) n’existe pas, mais l’ensemble des éléments de description ou d’organisation et des données exposées sont, eux, réels.
The mediation effect of firm performance on the association between Two-tier Independent Boards and Green Innovation Practices: evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Mahsina Mahsina , Soewarno Noorlailie
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This research examines the role of firm performance in the effect of a two-tier independent board on green innovation practices.Design/methodology/approach: This study employs a simple mediation model-4 using the Hayes Process approach to OLS regression with the R package. The dataset uses a total 518 public companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for 2017 to 2019, having 1,554 firm-year observations. Findings: The study revealed, based on the two-tier system, the role of a composite independent board on firm performance and green innovation is positive and significant. However, individual results for both independent commissaries and directors in terms of firm performance and green innovation practices are not significant. This result implies that a composite of independent boards is essential to reduce and mitigate the failure of corporate governance.Research limitations/implications: This research only applied a sample of companies from one country which adopted two-tier system. Future research might apply as a comparative analysis of those countries group with two-tier system versus countries group with one-tier system.Practical implications: First, companies need to enhance the knowledge and expertise of both independent directors and independent commissaries to improve their roles. Second, it is important to provide support for the campaign and incentives for green innovation practices. Third, insight drawn from this study leads to the latest regulation from the Financial Services Authority (as the representative of the Indonesian government), whereby independent directors are no longer mandatory for publicly listed companies starting in December 2021 and must be evaluated because the composite independent board is an effective tool to execute green projects and to accelerate the SDG agenda in 2030.Social Implications: The social implication of this study is companies’ awareness to produce more eco-based products, which are expected by stakeholders, can be actualized. Also, public perception shows companies with green products have better performance.Originality/value: This research is the first study examining the mediating role of firm performance on the effect of a two-tier independent board on green innovation practices. Second, this study introduces the latest methodology for the simple mediation model using a Hayes-based approach in the field of accounting with an open-source software R package.
Warehouse management optimization using a sorting-based slotting approach
Authors: Duque-Jaramillo Juan C. , Cogollo-Flórez Juan M. , Gómez-Marín Cristian G. , Correa-Espinal Alexander A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose: Slotting is one of the main operations in warehouse management. It is based on the efficient allocation of slots for stock-keeping units (SKUs). Order picking and slotting represent a high percentage of total logistics costs; therefore, improving these activities leads to significant savings in the overall performance. This paper aims to develop an allocation model integrating SKUs physical variables, warehousing design, and operation (dimensions, layout, material handling equipment), and heterogeneous product demand.Design/methodology/approach: The modeling methodology considers two phases. First, an integer linear programming model for warehousing spaces assignment for SKUs considering priority and required orders is developed. Then, the total operation times using different strategies are calculated.Findings: The effectiveness of the model was verified through simulation using historical data. The results showed that the best performance in the total time of the slotting operation is achieved by using the ABC as a criterion for the classification of the SKUs and by sequentially assigning the row, level, column, and the section.Practical implications: This approach can be adapted to different industrial sectors and serves as a basis for more robust models regarding the number of constraints or the incorporation of additional warehouse operating parameters.Originality/value: The most important contribution of this work is the development of a flexible and adaptable methodology to changes in the operation to improve the efficiency of storage management through slotting. Future work includes other objective functions of sustainable operations and uncertainty treatment techniques.
Manifold-based denoising for Ferumoxytol-enhanced 3D cardiac cine MRI
Authors: Andrews Anna , Doctor Pezad , Gaur Lasya , Gerald Greil F. , Hussain Tarique , Zou Qing
Published: February 2024

The two-dimensional (2D) cine cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) technique is the reference standard for assessing cardiac function. However, one challenge with 2D cine is that the acquisition time for the whole cine stack is long and requires multiple breath holds, which may not be feasible for pediatric or ill patients. Though single breath-hold multi-slice cine may address the issue, it can only acquire low-resolution images, and hence, affect the accuracy of cardiac function assessment. To address these challenges, a Ferumoxytol-enhanced, free breathing, isotropic high-resolution 3D cine technique was developed. The method produces high-contrast cine images with short acquisition times by using compressed sensing together with a manifold-based method for image denoising. This study included fifteen patients (9.1 $ \pm $ 5.6 yrs.) who were referred for clinical cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with Ferumoxytol contrast and were prescribed the 3D cine sequence. The data was acquired on a 1.5T scanner. Statistical analysis shows that the manifold-based denoised 3D cine can accurately measure ventricular function with no significant differences when compared to the conventional 2D breath-hold (BH) cine. The multiplanar reconstructed images of the proposed 3D cine method are visually comparable to the golden standard 2D BH cine method in terms of clarity, contrast, and anatomical precision. The proposed method eliminated the need for breath holds, reduced scan times, enabled multiplanar reconstruction within an isotropic data set, and has the potential to be used as an effective tool to access cardiovascular conditions.
Effects of estrogens in mitochondria: An approach to type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ruiz-Romero Geovanni Alberto , Álvarez-Delgado Carolina
Published: February 2024

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is characterized by a state of hyperglycemia in the blood due to insulin resistance developed by organs such as muscle, liver, and adipose tissue. A common factor in individuals with T2D is mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria are dynamic organelles responsible for energy and antioxidant metabolism in the cells. Estrogens, such as 17β-estradiol (E2), are steroid hormones that have shown a great capacity to regulate mitochondrial function and dynamics through estrogen receptors (ERs), modulating the expression of mitochondrial biogenesis-related genes and cell signaling mechanisms. The accumulation of reactive oxygen species, the low capacity for ATP synthesis, and morphological alterations are some of the mitochondrial processes impaired in T2D. Insulin signaling and secretion by pancreatic β-cells, ATP-dependent processes, are also altered in T2D. In this review, mitochondria were exposed as the central axis for the action of estrogens in individuals with T2D. Estrogens increased glucose uptake, insulin signaling, and mitochondrial bioenergetics, and decreased ectopic lipid accumulation in non-adipose tissues and oxidative stress, among other processes, in various preclinical and clinical models of diabetes. The development of strategies to target compounds to mitochondria could represent a novel therapeutic alternative to potentiate the effects of estrogens on this organelle in patients with insulin resistance and T2D.
El retrato de los hombres tristes. La memoria familiar de la represión franquista en Lo que a nadie le importa de Sergio del Molino
Authors: Ros Violeta
Published: February 2024

La indagación en la memoria familiar es un molde narrativo clásico en la producción literaria contemporánea. En el caso de los relatos que se ocupan de releer los pasados conflictivos se trata, además, de un molde especialmente productivo a la hora de articular narrativamente la dimensión privada y la dimensión pública de ese pasado. A partir de la adaptación del concepto de etnografía doméstica (Renov 2004), este trabajo propone un acercamiento a análisis del proceso de transmisión de la memoria familiar de la represión franquista desde su articulación en forma de novela. El análisis de la novela de Sergio del Molino titulada Lo que a nadie le importa, permitirá mostrar de qué modo la producción narrativa contemporánea dialoga, negocia y discute con los imaginarios compartidos sobre la represión franquista.
Analysis and Implications of Adopting AI and Machine Learning in Marketing, Servicing, and Communications Technology
Authors: Borole Priyal J.
Published: February 2024

Methods for machine learning, or ML, are becoming more accessible, and consumer-generated data is on the rise, both of which are transforming marketing strategies. Researchers and marketers still have a long way to go before they fully grasp the myriad ways in which ML applications might help businesses gain and keep an edge in the marketplace. This study systematically evaluates the academic and corporate literature to present a taxonomy of marketing use cases based on machine learning. The authors have discovered 11 common use cases that fall into four distinct groups that reflect the core areas of leverage for machine learning in marketing: shopper fundamentals, consuming experience, decisions, and financial impact. The literature highlights practical implications for researchers and marketers by discussing the taxonomy's found repeating patterns and providing an analytical structure for analyzing it and extension.
Use of Artificial Intelligence in Teacher Training
Authors: Wu Wei , Burdina Gulnara , Gura Alena
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the study is to consider the issue and identify problems with the introduction of artificial intelligence in education and, in particular, teacher training. The study is based on online questionnaires that were sent to teachers (375 people) of higher educational institutions and schools in Russia and China. The results of the study suggest that teacher training based on artificial intelligence can improve students' knowledge, but at this stage, the use of technology should be combined with the traditional learning approach. The research may be of interest to teachers, students, parents, school, and university administrations, as well as to a wide range of people interested in modern education trends. The results obtained with the help of this study can be considered when planning a strategy for introducing artificial intelligence into education, making decisions about its share in learning with due regard to a specific area of study.
Intrathyroid thymic carcinoma/carcinoma showing thymus-like elements (CASTLE): An extremely rare presentation of thyroid malignancy
Authors: Abeygunawardhane S. , Kanagasabapathy S. , Jayawickrama M.
Published: February 2024

Intrathyroid thymic carcinoma, also known as carcinoma showing thymus-like elements/CASTLE, is an uncommon malignancy that arises in the thyroid gland. This tumour shares both morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics with thymic carcinomas. Preoperative diagnosis can be challenging as the clinical and histological features may mimic other high-grade thyroid malignancies. Differentiating CASTLE from other thyroid lesions is important as it has a better prognosis.A 46-year-old man presented with progressive dysphagia, difficulty in breathing and cough for eight months. The ultrasound scan (USS) revealed a hypoechoic lesion in the right lobe of the thyroid. The cytology specimen obtained through non-US-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) was reported as Thy5/Bethesda VI, consistent with papillary thyroid carcinoma and a total thyroidectomy was performed. Macroscopic examination revealed a white, non-encapsulated tumour in the right lobe of the thyroid, measuring 45x40x25 mm, with gross extrathyroidal extension. Microscopically, this lesion predominantly showed a squamous morphology with admixed lymphocytes. The tumour cells tested positive for CD5, CD117, CK5/6, CK19 and synaptophysin, and were negative for TTF1 and calcitonin, confirming its classification as CASTLE.This case brings attention to the difficulties encountered in diagnosing uncommon lesions in both cytology and histology and emphasizes the crucial contribution of immunohistochemistry in navigating through such complex scenarios.
A descriptive study of prostate cancer in biopsy specimens in a tertiary care centre in Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayathilaka P. G. A. N. , Munasinghe M. A. D. N. , Fernandopulle S. M. , De S. Hewavisenthi S. J.
Published: February 2024

NA
Correlation between prostate specific antigen levels and Gleason sum score in a cohort of patients with prostate cancer
Authors: Jayathilaka P. G. A. N. , Munasinghe M. A. D. N. , Fernandopulle S. M. , De S. Hewavisenthi S. J.
Published: February 2024

NA
Expression of Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α and microvessel density in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Soni D. , Mukhopadhyay S. , Goel G. , Gupta V. , Das S. , Kapoor N.
Published: February 2024

NA
Ductal prostate cancer staging: Role of PSMA PET/CT
Authors: Pepe Pietro , Pepe Ludovica , Curduman Mara , Pennisi Michele , Fraggetta Filippo
Published: February 2024

Introduction: To evaluate the accuracy of PSMA PET/CT in the diagnosis and clinical staging of prostatic ductal adenocarcinoma (DAC).Materials and methods: Two Caucasian men 58 and 62 years old were admitted to our Department for dysuria: the patients had not familiarity for prostate cancer (PCa), PSA values were 5.6 and 2.8 ng/ml, digital rectal examination was positive, multiparametric magnetic resonance image (mpMRI) showed for both the presence of an index lesion PIRADS score 5. The patients underwent extended transperineal prostate biopsy combined with four mpMRI/TRUS fusion biopsy under sedation and antibiotic prophylaxis; biopsy histology demonstrated the presence of a mixed PCa characterized by DAC and acinar PCa (Grade Group 4/Gleason score 8). The patients underwent clinical staging performing lung and abdominal CT, bone scan and fluoride 18 (18F) PSMA PET/CT. Results: Conventional imaging was negative for distant metastases; 18F-PSMA PET/CT showed in both patients an intraprostatic lesion characterized by a standardized uptake value (SUVmax) equal to 4.6 and 4.9 in the absence of distant lesions suspicious for metastases. Following multidisciplinary evaluation, the patients underwent radical prostatectomy plus extended pelvic lymphadenectomy. Definitive specimen showed the presence in both cases of a mixed pT3bN1 PCa (ductal plus acinar pattern Grade Group 4) with positive surgical margins, neuronal invasion, and nodes metastases (5/20 and 6/24, respectively). Post-operative PSA in the two patients was 0.8 and 0.3 ng/ml, therefore patients underwent adjuvant therapy. Conclusions: Conventional imaging and PSMA PET/CT could result inadequate in clinical staging of DAC, the use of more imaging data (i.e. mpMRI and/or F-18 FDG) could improve overall accuracy.
Eighteen years of experience in laparoscopic implantation of artificial urinary sphincter in women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency
Authors: Araújo Débora , Bryckaert Pierre-Emmanuel , Miranda Miguel , Rodrigues Vasco , De Saint Aubert Nicolas , Menard Johann , Mandron Eric
Published: February 2024

Introduction and objectives: Artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) is a treatment option for women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after failure of previous surgery or as a primary procedure in severe intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD). The aim of the study was to assess the long-term efficacy and risk factors for surgical revision and definitive explantation of AUS laparoscopic implantation in female patients.Methods: A retrospective review of all women submitted to AUS implantation between April 2005 and March 2023 was conducted. The AUS was implanted via transperitoneal laparoscopic approach, by two experienced surgeons. The primary endpoint was postoperative continence. Continence was defined as no leakage and no pad usage or leakage and/or pad usage with no impact on social life and failure as leakage and/or pad usage impacting social life. As secondary outcomes, clinical predictive factors for AUS revision and definitive explantation were evaluated.Results: In the last 18 years, females with a mean age of 68±12 years-old were submitted to laparoscopic implantation of AUS. Early overall complication rate was 16%, but only one case was Clavien-Dindo ≥3. After a median follow-up of 67 months, 22.2% of the patients needed a device revision, the majority due to mechanical device dysfunction. AUS definitive explantation was performed in 16%, mainly due to urethral/vaginal erosion (9.9%) and infection (6.2%). Patients with age ≥70 years and follow-up ≥10 years significantly predisposed for device revision. At the time of the last follow-up, 72% of the patients were keeping the urinary continency.Conclusions: Laparoscopic AUS implantation in females is an effective treatment for SUI due to ISD. Meanwhile, adequate patient selection, multidisciplinary evaluation and careful expectation management are essential to achieving good results, concerning their significant complication rate.
Endoscopic enucleation of the prostate with Thulium Fiber Laser (ThuFLEP). A retrospective single-center study
Authors: Peteinaris Angelis , Tatanis Vasileios , Katsakiori Paraskevi , Spinos Theodoros , Faitatziadis Solon , Gkeka Kristiana , Natsos Anastasios , Vrettos Theofanis , Liatsikos Evangelos , Kallidonis Panagiotis
Published: February 2024

Purpose: The aim of the present, retrospective study was to describe our initial experience and early outcomes of Thulium Fiber Laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuFLEP) with the use of the FiberDust™ (Quanta System, Samarate, Italy) in patients with benign prostate hyperplasia.Methods: From June 2022 to April 2023, all patients who underwent endoscopic enucleation of the prostate at Urology Department of the University Hospital of Patras were included. A single surgeon utilizing the same standardized operative technique performed all the surgeries. The primary endpoints included the uneventful completion of the operation, the surgical time and any minor or major complication observed intra- or post-operatively.Results: Twenty patients with benign prostate hyperplasia were treated with ThuFLEP. All the surgeries were completed successfully and uneventfully. The enucleation phase of the operation was completed in a mean time of 45±9.1 min, while the average time needed for the morcellation was 17.65±3.42 min. No significant complications were observed intra- or post-operatively. The average hemoglobin drop was calculated to be 0.94±0.71 g/dL.Conclusions: All the operations were successfully and efficiently completed with the use of the FiberDust™ (Quanta System, Samarate, Italy) in ThuFLEP. Significant blood loss or major complications were not observed.
Iron homeostasis alterations and erectile dysfunction: A new issue in erectile disfunction treatment?
Authors: Marino Claudio , Iaconis Salvatore , Di Bello Francesco , Cacace Gianluigi , Fusco Giovanni , Romano Lorenzo , Di Mauro Ernesto , Cirillo Luigi , Altieri Vincenzo Maria , Mastrangelo Francesco , Napolitano Luigi , Palmieri Alessandro
Published: February 2024

To the Editor, Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most prevalent conditions affecting men globally, with significant psychological and social consequences. The prevalence varies across different populations, and it is estimated around 50% in men aged between 40 to 70. The etiology of ED is multifactorial, involving a complex crosstalk between psychological, hormonal, neurogenic, vascular, and structural factors [...]
Θεός, Father and the ‘Holy Trinity’ in the New Testament
Authors: Oliver Willem H. , Oliver Erna
Published: February 2024

The term ‘Holy Trinity’, not known to the writers of the Bible, is still an elusive term to use nowadays, especially when one first reads the New Testament in light of the Old Testament and not immediately in light of the Creeds and Statements of Faith. This article discusses the roles of Θεός (God) and ‘Father’ in the New Testament with reference to the Holy Trinity. The conclusion is that the New Testament does not depict a Holy Trinity, but rather portrays Θεός as a coordinator, bringing a harmony between his anthropomorphic assignments ‘Father’, ‘Son’ and ‘Holy Spirit’, as well as all the followers of Θεός on Earth.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: On the first level, this article covers the disciplines of Old Testament, New Testament (NT) and Practical Theology. On the second level, it makes use of philosophy and logics to help determine the ‘truths’ in the Bible. Who is Θεός? We propose that the NT depicts him as coordinator of his three revelations, ‘Father’, ‘Son’ and ‘Holy Spirit’. Using anthropomorphic terms, Θεός reveals himself to his followers on Earth. The Bible is used as the main source, with references to the three Creeds and four Statements of Faith.
Nasopalatine Canal Masquerading as a Periapical Cyst
Authors: Devathambi T. Jones Raja , Aswath Nalini
Published: February 2024

The incisive foramen is also called as nasopalatine foramen. It is a funnel-shaped opening in the anterior maxilla which opens immediately behind the central incisor teeth through which nasopalatine blood vessels and nerves pass. The incisive foramen is continuous with the incisive canal or nasopalatine canal (NPC). Variations in size, shape, position, and number of NPCs exist. Anatomical variations in NPC cannot be appreciated on two-dimensional radiographs. A case of anatomical variation of the nasopalatine canal misdiagnosed as a periapical cyst is discussed.
Relevance of Tumor Budding and Pattern of Invasion in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Deshpande Nikhil Sanjay , Munemane Anil B. , Karle Ravindra Raosaheb , Dongre Suryakant Dattatreya
Published: February 2024

Background:

Standard histopathological parameters such as depth of invasion (DOI), lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and perineural invasion (PNI) are known parameters that can correlate with the prognosis and aggressiveness of oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs). Tumor budding (TB) (≤5 tumor cells at infiltrating borders) and pattern of invasion (POI) are emerging histopathological parameters that have shown promising results as reliable risk factors in predicting nodal metastasis in early OSCCs.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to assess TB and POI in OSCCs.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 33 surgical resection specimens of OSCC, including buccal mucosa and tongue with neck dissection, were selected. TB and POI along with standard parameters such as grade, DOI, LVI, PNI, lymph node status, and pathological staging were evaluated. These parameters were analyzed in comparison with lymph node involvement and pathological stage of the tumor using the Chi-square and Fischer’s exact test. The SPSS software, v21, was used for statistical analyses.

Results:

Most of OSCC were moderately differentiated tumors (63.64%). TB was present in 23 cases, in which 69.57% of cases showed low TB (<5 buds), while 30.43% of cases had higher TB (>5 buds). The worst POI (Patterns 4 and 5) was seen in 75.76% of cases. TB, POI, grade, PNI, DOI, and stromal pattern were significantly associated with the pathological stage of the tumor.

Conclusion:

TB and POI are important and reliable in histopathological parameters in OSCCs.
Nurturing Empathy through Arts, Literature, and Role Play for Postgraduate Trainees of Ophthalmology
Authors: Bhagat Purvi R. , Trivedi Kinjal Y. , Prajapati Kamini M. , Chauhan Abhishek S. , Shah Neeharika Pinakin , Shah Rupal T. , Kathiara Ravija A. , Asari Wilhemina A. , Rajput Vijay
Published: February 2024

Background and Purpose:

Empathy is essential in patient-centered compassionate health care. Lack of formal training, workload, patient factors, and digitalization have been attributed to its regression. Empathy can be nurtured by educational interventions. A structured empathy education module for postgraduate trainees is not available in India. The aim for this research was to develop, deliver, and evaluate one for ophthalmology postgraduate trainees.

Methodology:

This interventional study was conducted in the tertiary ophthalmology department of Western India during 2022–2023. Four workshops comprising of interactive lectures, literature, creative arts, and role plays were delivered with trained facilitators. Data from surveys for trainee self-assessment, patient perception of trainee empathy, pre-post knowledge test, and trainee and facilitator feedback were collected and analyzed.

Results:

Seventy-nine ophthalmology postgraduate trainees participated in this intervention. Excessive workload and lack of training were shared as the barriers to empathetic care. Trainees showed improved knowledge, skills, and attitude in empathy after the workshops. The facilitators and trainees were satisfied with the learning goals, execution, utility, feasibility, and relevance of the workshops. Ninety-three percent trainees want this module to be a part of postgraduate curriculum.

Conclusion:

This study substantiates the use of structured interactive training for cultivating empathy in postgraduate trainees. Barriers against empathy were identified and can be mitigated by restorative measures. Literature, arts, and role plays are the effective education tools for empathy.
Alpha-fetoprotein producing gastric cancer with divergent differentiation: Report of a rare case with review of literature
Authors: Mishra Pritinanda , Panigrahi Chinmayee , Patra Susama , Nayak Hemant K. , Panigrahi Manas K. , Samal Subash C.
Published: February 2024

Alpha-fetoprotein-producing gastric cancer is a rare variant of gastric adenocarcinoma. This tumor is likely to be misdiagnosed, particularly in patients with liver metastasis. This rare subgroup of gastric carcinoma may show divergent differentiation on histology and may pose a diagnostic challenge to the pathologist. They have an aggressive course with a dismal prognosis.
Evidence-based comparative study of group and individual consciousness on life satisfaction among adults
Authors: Verma Sudhanshu , Kumar Kamakhya
Published: February 2024

Background:

Life satisfaction (LS) is the method during which people show their emotions, feelings (moods), and the way they feel concerning their directions and choices for the longer term. It is a measure of well-being assessed in terms of mood, satisfaction with relationships, achieved goals, self-concepts, and self-perceived ability to address one's lifestyle. LS involves a good angle toward one's life instead of an assessment of the current feelings. LS has been measured in relation to economic standing, degree of education, experiences, residence, and many other topics.

Objective:

The objective of the present study was to see the effect of group yoga and individual yoga training on LS among adults.

Materials and Methods:

In the present study, 100 college students and employees aged 18–45 years with dissatisfaction were randomized into two groups, that is, group yoga practice (GYP, n = 50) and individual yoga practice (n = 50). All the participants were assessed for LS using standard questionnaire at the baseline and after completion of 45 days of training intervention. Data analysis was done using statistical software SPSS Version 23.0. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests.

Results:

The results showed that LS in GYP improved statistically significantly (t = 3.20, p < 0.01) after 45 days of yoga intervention. Further, in case of individual yoga practice group, the results showed that there was no statistically significant increase (t = 1.94, p > 0.05) in LS of the participants.

Conclusion:

Group yoga intervention is effective in increasing LS among adults as compared to individual yoga intervention.
Effect of naturopathy and yoga therapies as an adjuvant to conventional medicine in the management of COVID-19
Authors: Mooventhan A. , Manavalan N. , Deepa Y. , Mangaiarkarasi N. , Kahlilsubramanian K. , Nivethitha L.
Published: February 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the infectious disease affecting many countries globally. This case study was performed to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and effect of integrated naturopathy and yoga therapies (INYT) (i.e., conventional medicine + yoga and naturopathy) on the number of hospital stay and symptom score in a patient with COVID-19. A 39-year-old married male was diagnosed with COVID-19 on March 27, 2020. During the hospital stay, the patient underwent INYT. Adherence to INYT was good and the patient did not report any serious adverse effects during the intervention period. The length of hospital stay was 11 days. Which is less than the median hospital stay observed in previous studies and the symptom score reduced from 6 (day 1) to 0 (day 6). Thus, INYT might reduce the length of the hospital stay with symptoms and active infection and also is feasible and safe in a patient with COVID-19.
Mulabandha yoga therapy and its utility in cases of urinary incontinence in females: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Sweta Km , Godbole Amrit , Awasthi H. H. , Pandey Uma
Published: February 2024

Background:

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common condition in women, with prevalence ranging from 8.5% to 38% depending on age, parity, and definition. This problem is more common in Asian countries, where women usually do not seek treatment for their reproductive health problems and do not vocalize their symptoms. Mulabandha yoga therapy (MYT) is said to be effective for the management of UI. Hence, it was tried to see the effects of this method in females.

Aims and Objective:

The aim and objective was to study the effect of yoga therapy in female patients for 3 months suffering from UI.

Methods:

An intervention of Mulabandha yoga therapy (Contraction of pelvic group muscles) for the period of three months has been done by interventional group.

Design:

Participants were allocated into two groups by generating random allocation sequence.

Participants:

Fifty female participants were divided into two groups, i.e., interventional and noninterventional (control) groups. The interventional group (n = 25) received an intensive supervised MYT protocol along with medication and the control group (n = 25) received only oral medicines.

Outcome Measures:

Improvement in UI symptoms was assessed using the Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence Diagnosis (QUID). Both groups were evaluated at the beginning of the study and after 12 weeks.

Results:

At the completion of study,

data received from all the fifty women were included in the analysis. Percentage improvement in the QUID mean change was 58.72 in the intervention group and 21.54 in the control group. Intergroup comparison (Mann–Whitney test) was found to be statistically significant in the intervention group (p < 0.00), whereas it was nonsignificant in the control group (p = 0.14).

Conclusion:

MYT plays a significant role in the improvement of UI symptoms.
Prayers and healing an interdependent relation
Authors: Divya B.R , Keshavamurthy
Published: February 2024

The human world is realizing and giving importance to prayers and its healing effect throughout the world. In times of natural crisis, public health emergency like COVID 19 pandemic, it has even garnered more attention. There are many evidence based research that proves the benefits of such practices. This paper reviews the effect of prayer and its role in managing, coping and healing during the time of crisis.
Application of Desirability Approach to Determine Optimal Turning
Parameters
Authors: Arunbharathi R. , Arish R. , Girith Chandru S. , Bhavandharshan K. , Gowthamprasath A. D. , Hari K.
Published: February 2024

Aluminum alloys are employed in agricultural equipment, aerospace sectors,
medical instruments, machinery, automobiles, etc. due to their physical and
mechanical characteristics. The geometrical shape and size of the parts are
modified in turning operation by using a single-point cutting tool. A356
aluminum alloy is widely used in various engineering sectors, hence there is a
necessity to produce A-356 components with quality. The inappropriate cutting
parameters used in turning operation entail high production costs and reduce
tool life. Box–Behnken design (BBD) based on response surface methodology (RSM)
was used to design the experiments such that the experiment trials were
conducted by varying cutting parameters like N-spindle speed (rpm), f-feed rate
(mm/rev), and d-depth of cut (mm). The multi-objective responses, such as
surface roughness (SR) and metal removal rate (MRR) were analyzed with the
desirability method. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) represents the significant
factor for each response, whereas the desirability approach focuses on a single
optimal cutting parameter setting to achieve both responses with a better level
of accuracy. The most favorable turning parameters N: 713.563 rpm (715 rpm), f:
1 mm/rev, and d: 1 mm was determined in the desirability approach to enhance
results of SF: 2.511 μm and MRR 25.145 gm/min. The validation test was executed
with predicted factors, such that the experiment results form a better agreement
with the predicted results. The determined cutting parameters settings are
advisable to machine the liquid metallurgical A-356 aluminum alloy castings.
Noun-noun compounding in Esahie
Authors: Broohm Obed Nii , Marfo Charles Ofosu
Published: February 2024

Noun-noun (N-N) compounds have been argued to constitute the commonest and most productive category of compounds cross-linguistically (cf. Downing 1977; Clark et al. 1985; Bauer 2017; Gagné & Spalding 2010; Guevara & Scalise 2009) and this fact is well-established in Kwa languages as well (cf. Akan: Appah (2013), Lɛtɛ: Akrofi Ansah (2012), Ewe: Agbadah (2017), and Dangme: Lawer (2017), Lawer & Appah (2020)). However, the subject remains to be explored as far as Esahie, which also belongs to the Kwa group of languages, is concerned. This paper, therefore, examines the form and function of N-N compounds in Esahie, from a Construction Morphology (Booij 2010) perspective. Among other things, the study reveals that subordinate compounds are predominantly right-headed, while attributive compounds are predominantly left-headed, and that the former is the most productive compounding type. Our findings on Esahie noun-noun compounds corroborate Booij’s (1992) observation that there is a strong correlation between recursion and productivity. Furthermore, we show that semantic headedness (rather formal headedness) provides the most reliable criterion for determining headedness in Esahie N-N compounds. Data is collected through documentary fieldworks conducted in Esahie-speaking communities of the Western North Region of Ghana.
Lexical borrowing: the influence of loanwords on the semantics of Kihehe
Authors: Kasavaga Fahamu , Alphonce Chrispina
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the influence of loanwords on the semantics of Kihehe as spoken in Iringa in the southern highlands of Tanzania. It provides evidence from 1,152 loanwords collected through spoken texts and focus group discussion in two villages of Nzihi and Ifunda wards, namely Mibikimitali and Kalenga in Iringa District where the central dialect of Kihehe is mainly spoken. The collection and analysis of the data were guided by the Cognitive Lexical Semantic Theory.The findings revealed that, in Kihehe, loanwords have origin in 11 languages which are Kibena, Kikinga, Kikimbu, Cigogo, Kiswahili, English; Arabic, Latin, French, Hindi, and Portuguese. These loanwords fall into five categories. The category which is borrowed most is nouns, while the category which is borrowed least is conjunctions. Nevertheless, the semantics of Kihehe is shown to have been affected whereby the influence is due to importation of loanwords.The influence of borrowing is manifested clearly on semantic broadening, narrowing, shifting, additive borrowing, and innovation. It is, therefore, clear that while the importation of loanwords enriches the language by filling the lexical gap caused by cultural and technological differences between Kihehe and the source languages, it also affects the semantics.
Generating single-cell gene expression profiles for high-resolution spatial transcriptomics based on cell boundary images
Authors: Zhang Bohan , Li Mei , Kang Qiang , Deng Zhonghan , Qin Hua , Su Kui , Feng Xiuwen , Chen Lichuan , Liu Huanlin , Fang Shuangsang , Zhang Yong , Li Yuxiang , Brix Susanne , Xu Xun
Published: February 2024

In spatially resolved transcriptomics, Stereo-seq facilitates the analysis of large tissues at the single-cell level, offering subcellular resolution and centimeter-level field-of-view. Our previous work on StereoCell introduced a one-stop software using cell nuclei staining images and statistical methods to generate high-confidence single-cell spatial gene expression profiles for Stereo-seq data. With advancements allowing the acquisition of cell boundary information, such as cell membrane/wall staining images, we updated our software to a new version, STCellbin. Using cell nuclei staining images, STCellbin aligns cell membrane/wall staining images with spatial gene expression maps. Advanced cell segmentation ensures the detection of accurate cell boundaries, leading to more reliable single-cell spatial gene expression profiles. We verified that STCellbin can be applied to mouse liver (cell membranes) and Arabidopsis seed (cell walls) datasets, outperforming other methods. The improved capability of capturing single-cell gene expression profiles results in a deeper understanding of the contribution of single-cell phenotypes to tissue biology.

Availability & Implementation
The source code of STCellbin is available at https://github.com/STOmics/STCellbin.
SAW: an efficient and accurate data analysis workflow for Stereo-seq spatial transcriptomics
Authors: Gong Chun , Li Shengkang , Wang Leying , Zhao Fuxiang , Fang Shuangsang , Yuan Dong , Zhao Zijian , He Qiqi , Li Mei , Liu Weiqing , Li Zhaoxun , Xie Hongqing , Liao Sha , Chen Ao , Zhang Yong , Li Yuxiang , Xu Xun
Published: February 2024

The basic analysis steps of spatial transcriptomics require obtaining gene expression information from both space and cells. The existing tools for these analyses incur performance issues when dealing with large datasets. These issues involve computationally intensive spatial localization, RNA genome alignment, and excessive memory usage in large chip scenarios. These problems affect the applicability and efficiency of the analysis. Here, a high-performance and accurate spatial transcriptomics data analysis workflow, called Stereo-seq Analysis Workflow (SAW), was developed for the Stereo-seq technology developed at BGI. SAW includes mRNA spatial position reconstruction, genome alignment, gene expression matrix generation, and clustering. The workflow outputs files in a universal format for subsequent personalized analysis. The execution time for the entire analysis is ∼148 min with 1 GB reads 1 × 1 cm chip test data, 1.8 times faster than with an unoptimized workflow.
Effect of hydrostatic pressure on opto-electronic, elastic and thermoelectric properties of the double perovskites Rb2SeX6(X=Cl,Br): a DFT study
Authors: Yahaya A. A. , Yahya W. A. , Rahmon I. A.
Published: February 2024

Double perovskites find applications across a diverse range of situations and varying pressure conditions. In this work, Quantum ESPRESSO code with a plane wave basis set was used to study the opto-electronic, elastic, and thermoelectric properties of Rb2SeX6 (X=Cl, Br) double perovskites under hydrostatic pressure (0 - 8 GPa). Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof for Solids (PBESol) with generalized gradient approximation (GGA) was used as exchange-correlation functional. The band gap values of the materials decrease under hydrostatic pressure. Rb2SeCl6 has a band gap value of 2.44 eV at 0 GPa, 2.21 eV at 2 GPa. Above 2 GPa, the material has a metallic nature. Rb2SeBr6 has a band gap value of 1.56 eV at 0 GPa, but has a metallic nature under hydrostatic pressure (2 GPa to 8 GPa). The optical properties results indicate that the materials exhibit maximum absorption, high reflectivity, low optical loss in the visible and ultraviolet regions, good optical conductivity, and a refractive index suitable for use in opto-electronic applications. The materials are confirmed to be mechanically stable under all the hydrostatic pressure values studied. Electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and Seebeck coefficient (S ) values of the studied materials increase with an increase in hydrostatic pressure and temperature. The maximum value of S for Rb2SeBr6 is 0.248 x 103 (m V/k), while for Rb2SeCl6, maximum S = 0.175 x 103 (m V/k). The positive values of S suggest that the predominant charge carriers of Rb2SeCl6/Br6 are holes. Also, Rb2SeBr6 has a figure of merit (ZT) value of 3.44, while for Rb2SeCl6, ZT = 1.07. Since the values of ZT are greater than unity, the two double perovskite materials have good ZT values for thermoelectric device engineering. The results also suggest that Rb2SeBr6 is a better thermoelectric material than Rb2SeCl6.