bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate Social Responsibility Reporting in the Gambling Industry
Authors: You Jiaxing , Guan Jieqi , Noronha Carlos
Published: December 2023

The social cost of the gambling industry has always been controversial. In 2015, the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) government initiated a midterm review to evaluate the overall performance of the gambling industry. The objective of the study was to investigate how does the government influence and guide the operators to control their social cost and create value to society. This study applied content analysis and collected data from annual reports, sustainability/social reports, and corporate websites of all gambling operators in Macau from 2005 to 2016. The results were further analyzed by looking into the critical policy documents released and issues occurred during the period. The result indicated that the gambling operators have used CSR reporting as a communication channel with the government, which is consistent with legitimacy theory and stakeholder theory. In addition, most of the companies have reinforced their disclosure related to government policies after the midterm review report. This finding also reflects some insights of the political economy theory.
Corporate Social Responsibility vs. Corporate Sustainability
Authors: Falcó Javier Martínez , Marco-Lajara Bartolomé , Zaragoza-Saez Patrocinio
Published: December 2023

The research is of great interest since it allows us to know the points of convergence and divergence between two of the concepts most used today to refer to the company's commitment to society and the environment in which it operates: corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate sustainability (CS). Through the narrative review conducted, the research shows that both concepts are converging to refer to the commitment of companies to economic, social, and environmental well-being. However, CS researchers consider that the three dimensions are interconnected, while CSR researchers do not seem to recognize this link. Furthermore, CSR is considered to have emerged to address social issues, while CS focused on environmental issues, given that CSR has its origins in the critique of neoclassical economic theory and CS in the environmental impact of organizations.
Development of the Five-Factor Holistic Ethical Leadership Questionnaire
Authors: Gemechu Tariku Fufa , Winston Bruce E.
Published: December 2023

The authors present three studies that develop the five-scale measurement for holistic ethical leadership questionnaire. Study 1 reports the scale development process using predominately non-Western participants. Study 2 tests the five-scale instrument for convergent and discriminant validity as well as test-retest reliability using a subset of the sample who participated in Study 1. Study 3 used a sample of USA residents for confirmatory factor analysis from which a single factor emerged to measure holistic ethical leadership. The authors concluded that the five-scale instrument should be used when measuring non-Western participants and the single-scale should be used when measuring USA residents. The authors recommended follow-up research using qualitative methods to better understand the reasons why the single-scale measure works well with USA residents.
Environmental and Corporate Crimes
Authors: Mucchielli Laurent
Published: December 2023

Drawing inspiration from researches on environmental crime and corporate crime, this chapter examines the case of air pollution caused by road transport and industry in France. The purpose of the author is first to document the nature and extent of these health threats to populations and second to highlight the existence of delinquent practices (defined as deliberate violations of legal norms) that sometimes play a major role in perpetuating these threats. The author first examines the issue of pollution caused by automobile engines and returns to “Dieselgate.” It then details the pollution problems observed in the Fos-sur-Mer industrial area in the south of France and its consequences on the health of local populations.
Ethical Concerns in the Metaverse Business
Authors: Anshari Muhammad , Syafrudin Muhammad , Fitriyani Norma Latif , Al-Mudimigh Abdullah
Published: December 2023

Companies are beginning to utilize the metaverse to broaden their service network and create new co-creation value for their clients. To better understand how the metaverse phenomena could impact corporate sustainability, investigative research should be conducted. In this chapter, the authors looked at the moral issues raised by businesses using metaverse to gain a competitive advantage. An exploratory evaluation of business ethics and a metaverse business model were used. Users, the general public, and consumers have a right to be fully informed of and understand that their data cannot be used by a third party for any reason in accordance with the consequentialist utilitarian principle and the notion of moral unity. Finally, those working in the disciplines of technology and public policy, including academics, entrepreneurs, and legislators, are expected to use the study.
Ethics in Engineering Profession
Authors: Murthy Jandhyala N. , C. Lavanya , Kosaraju Satyanarayana
Published: December 2023

Engineering as a profession distinguishes itself by having and enforcing a code of ethics. Aberrations can lead to commercial considerations to dominate converting the profession into a business rather than promoting safety, health, and welfare of public and environment. Engineers, in their professional quest for an optimal solution, are forced into a dilemma due to clash of values or interests. The explosion of data and its usage is bringing in a lot of concern due to proliferation of unethical practices. Moral values and personal ethics at one end and professional and social ethics at the other end of the spectrum are of points of discussion in academics as well as in society. Engineering programmes strive to offer engineering ethics and professionalism either through direct courses or through embedded capsules in appropriate courses. Promotion of ethics integrating into the engineering profession at all levels could lead to a holistic alternative at universal level, which is self-satisfying, people-friendly, and eco-friendly.
Ethics in Organization and Management
Authors: Joseph Thomas
Published: December 2023

A fundamental challenge for scholars and practitioners of organization and management is the integration of theoretical ethics with practical decision-making. This article discusses the historical evolution of ethics in organization and management through today. Additionally, the article utilizes a compare and contrast approach of three contemporary theories of ethical decision-making, namely ethics of virtue, ethics of care, and ethics of justice, to implicate their applicability to practice under conditions of globalization. Ethics of virtue, care, and justice share common concepts imperative for organizations in a global environment. They address the idea of equality and self-sufficiency and are concerned with the establishment and sustenance of lasting relationships. Organizations can, therefore, succeed in any environment providing that decision makers make the effort to adhere to standards that are moral, fair, caring, and just. Every unethical behavior should be condemned.
Ethics of Retailers and Consumer Behavior in E-Commerce
Authors: Yang Zhi , Van Ngo Quang , Nguyen Chung Xuan Thi
Published: December 2023

In the era of the information-communication technology with the development of electronic commerce, consumers can buy almost everything anywhere and at any time. One of the greatest benefits of e-commerce has been the convenience and the vast choices which consumers get online. However, some serious issues exist that impede consumers from transaction online. These issues have attracted the attention of many marketing researchers in recent years. In this research, the authors focus on the impact of consumers' ethics perception of e-retailer on their purchase intention and satisfaction. The authors also try to clarify the roles of trust and commitment in the relationship of ethics on consumers purchase decision and satisfaction because of their importance in e-commerce but also the privation in the research of previous studies. The data collected from a survey of 390 online consumers in Vietnam. Results reveal that there are significant relationships between online retailers' ethics and consumers' purchase intention and satisfaction via the mediation of trust and commitment.
Evolution of the Literature on Social Responsibility in the Tourism Sector
Authors: Lechuga Sancho María Paula , Martín Navarro Alicia
Published: December 2023

This chapter describes the evolution of research on social responsibility in the tourism sector until November 2017. The authors have compiled a database of 66 articles focused on the field published in academic journals. Bibliometric methods and techniques were used to describe the evolution of scientific activity, countries and active institutions, most productive authors, applied methodologies, and the main topics researched to determine the state and describe the evolution of literature in this field. Based on these analyses, possible ways are proposed for future research to advance this consolidation as a scientific discipline.
Exploring Ethical Consumption for Equity and Inclusiveness
Authors: Kadyan Sneha , Kadyan Jagbir Singh
Published: December 2023

This chapter is directed at examining this gap in everyday practices and is a step towards bridging thoughts and action of consumers towards sustainable social change. Utilizing a qualitative approach, purchasing practices of consumers with strong beliefs about ethical consumption are critically assessed to examine how individuals think and act with respect to their purchasing decisions. The findings of this chapter suggest that transparency and communication of the ethical investment of consumers in purchasing and consuming ethical products needs to be more pronounced for thoughts to reflect in ethical conscious practices.
Fair Trade Practices for Fighting in Emerging Countries
Authors: De-la-Piedra-Vindrola Sergio , Berbel-Pineda Juan Manuel , Palacios-Florencio Beatriz
Published: December 2023

Fair trade is a concept that is becoming increasingly ingrained in consumers. This means that companies that are committed to the development of fair-trade policies can find here a source of competitive advantage. Likewise, these practices will favour many producers in the primary sector, which could turn this into an effective way of fighting poverty. The aim of this research is to find out how fair trade has an impact on company results. To this end, managers from 102 companies in an emerging economy (Peru) are analysed. PLS-SEM is used for this analysis. The results indicate that there is a mediating effect of fair trade on the relationship between corporate social responsibility and company performance. However, significant differences have been found compared to developed economies. These results provide insight into emerging economy managers' assessments of responsible business practices.
Management of the Political Enterprise in the Service of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Cosmopolitan Society
Authors: Rendtorff Jacob Dahl
Published: December 2023

This chapter proposes to analyze the theory of the political enterprise with focus on the concept of ethical values-driven management in the contemporary debate on the politization of business in service of sustainability in cosmopolitan society. By service of cosmopolitan society of the political enterprise the chapter investigates the idea of the political enterprise as being a responsible political, ethical, and social agent with focus on the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that are required to justify its mission and role in society as a political actor that makes a different for its social and political community. The company is embedded in a social and political order with a diversity of political values, and the discussion about the meaning of the concept of values-driven management is therefore fundamental if one is to analyze the concept of the political enterprise in service of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Managerial Challenges of Corporate Social Responsibility in Developing Countries
Authors: Soltani Ebrahim , Liao Ying Ying , Iqbal Abdullah , Analoui Farhad
Published: December 2023

The aim of this chapter is to contribute to the further advancement of theoretical and empirical debate on CSR management by yielding support to the multidisciplinary and ‘context-dependent' nature of the field of managerial leadership of CSR and illustrating the various managerial orientations and attitudes of Iran's auto industry. Whilst there was very considerable evidence of the increased emphasis upon Sharia compliance mandate to regulate individual managers' personal values and orientation, there was much less evidence that this had as yet been carried through into similar behavioural and attitudinal changes at organisational and societal levels. Hence, the dominant managerial orientations toward CSR neither brought corporate behaviour up to a level where it was congruent with the prevailing Islamic cultural and societal norms nor it fulfilled the developmental promise of CSR. In a nutshell, the overall trend was incontrovertibly toward more personal/managerial use of CSR and failure to maintain a balance between (normative) developmental and instrumental CSR.
Organizational Greening and Green-Lean Management
Authors: Vargas-Hernández José G.
Published: December 2023

This paper aims to analyze the implications of organizational greening and green-lean management. It is assumed that organizational green management is a critical factor on environmental and socio-socio socio ecosystem development in any green economy. The method used is the critical analysis based on the review of the literature and linked to practice in organizational settings. The analysis concludes that the organizational greening and green-lean management use organizational resources more efficiently, enhance innovation capabilities, facilitates institutional and organizational changes, processes, and products, enter new markets, and improve the socio environmental organizational competitive advantage.
The Effects of Innovation Policy on Science-to-Business Collaboration
Authors: Beraha Isidora Avram , Đuričin Sonja Obrad
Published: December 2023

The growing complexity of innovation has led to transition to an open innovation approach. Achieving sustainable economic growth based on knowledge and innovation depends on the efficiency and intensity of interactions between the government, business sector, and academia. Searching for ways to improve the innovation performance of small and medium-sized enterprises is high on the agendas of policy makers in developed and even more in developing countries. Through innovation policy, a favorable environment and stimulating system is created in which innovation activities are realized, information and knowledge are flowed, and cooperation between different actors is established. Academia plays a key role in the open innovation approach and is perhaps the most important partner for small and medium-sized enterprises. The subject of the research is the effects of innovation policy support on science to business collaboration in Serbia, with additional emphasis on the national innovation system and innovation performance of Serbia.
The Organizational-Level Analysis of Corporate Social Responsibility in Serbia in Light of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Berber Nemanja , Aleksić Marko , Slavić Agneš , Strugar Jelača Maja
Published: December 2023

Corporate social responsibility (CSR), as a business concept that balances between economic, environmental, and social goals of a company, is usually seen as a good response to all mentioned challenges. Since the theory on CSR still does not prove an unambiguous conclusion on the role and importance of CSR for business success in developing economies, there is a need of investigating this concept and the level of its implementation. The main aim of this chapter is to investigate the concept of CSR, the level of its implementation, and the organizational-level predictors of CSR practice. The methodology is based on the analysis of the sample of 151 large private companies in Serbia. The authors used a specially designed questionnaire, based on the standardized ones, with respect to the context of Serbia, as a developing economy, in order to get responses on CSR. The single-respondent methodology was used, too. The data analysis is carried on in the SPSS program. The main conclusions, implications, and limitations of the research are given at the end of the chapter.
The Social Responsibility of the Firm
Authors: Nascimento Alvaro
Published: December 2023

This chapter pursues a normative approach to corporate governance, bridging economic theory on the nature of the firm and corporate management strategy. It intends to show that from a welfare economics perspective there is room for improvement if governments are willing to revisit the legal framework and redesign the institutional boundaries of the firm. In concrete, echoing concerns being put forward by the World Economic Forum and other international organisations, it is proposed that the social accountability of the modern corporation and its institutional boundaries should be revisited on legal grounds. A new role for top management is advanced in the context of principal-agent theory.
Use of Digital Technology in Improving Quality Education
Authors: Sharma Ridhima , Singh Amrik
Published: December 2023

The UN 2030 sustainable development agenda focuses heavily on improving access to high-quality education. This goal can no longer be pursued without heavily relying on digital technology. In addition to reducing emissions through increasing energy efficiency and environmentally friendly alternatives to burning fossil fuels, these methods may be used to completely remove harmful greenhouse emissions from the air. The purpose of technological advances is to improve production and efficiency while reducing waste and harmful effects on the environment. These technological advances have had a significant positive impact on the academic system. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of computers and other electronic aids in the classroom has increased dramatically. These digital technologies have had a profound impact on educational institutions as a whole. The present study aims to explore the significance of technological advances in education, discussing their principal benefits and the challenges they provide.
Sustainable Tourism Perspective in the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Singh Sujay Vikram , Jha Rashmi , Singh Ajit Kumar , Ranjan Rajeev , Pandey Sachin
Published: December 2023

The present study attempts to make a meaningful contribution to both the academic dialogue and the practical comprehension of how the Sustainable Development Goals can be utilised as a catalyst for profound change within the distinct socio-cultural and environmental context of Uttarakhand. Three heritage sites have been discussed in this context: Natural (Nanda Devi National Park), Built (Kedarnath), and Riverscape (Har ki pauri).The study discovers significant insights that will resonate with policymakers, practitioners, and communities all around the world by conducting an exhaustive study of the complexities of sustainable development in this particular region.
Can Firm Size Moderate Navigating Economic Performance Through Strategic Purchasing?
Authors: Inala Uday , Valluri John Yesudas , Rao Gunupuru Koteswara , Balakrishnan Shyamaladevi , Kannan A. S. , Rangaswamy Easwaramoorthy
Published: December 2023

This study empirically investigates the relationship between strategic purchasing, environmental purchasing, and economic performance in the manufacturing industry in India. Employing partial least squares (PLS) analysis guided by the dynamic capability view theory, this study examined the direct and moderating linkages between organizational purchasing practices and economic outcomes. The findings reveal a significant positive association between strategic purchasing and economic performance, with firm size acting as a moderator. Conversely, no moderating effect of firm size is found between environmental purchasing and economic performance. This research underscores the pivotal role of strategic purchasing in maximizing a supplier base, enhancing supplier relations, and influencing expenditures and operations across the supply network. This provides insights into the strategic role of purchasing in maintaining quality standards and enabling international growth.
An Analysis of Credit Management and Bank Lending Practices in Developing Countries
Authors: Kolachina Srinivas , Hundia Lisha , Mounishker Kancherla , Venkatesh Juluru , Velmurugan Palanivel Rathinasabapathi , Obaid Ahmed J.
Published: December 2023

The credit system and the banking activities processes increase people's investment practices, enhancing country people's economic condition. The research aims to understand the processes of banking activities and the importance of the credit management system. Concepts and the procedures of the credit management system are the most important things in lending a loan. The theory of banking activities is for understanding the activities of the banned credit system of the banks, including the processes of verification, calculation of loan details, and disbursing of the amount. The primary method has been used for collecting data from the respondents, including quantitative analysis, for a better understanding of all facts. This increases the possibility of earning and promotes developmental activities. Banks' lending practices increase their income, and the credit system increases the scope for developing the economic condition.
ENSINANDO BIOLOGIA POR MEIO DA INVESTIGAÇÃO: O CASO DO AMADURECIMENTO DAS FRUTAS
Authors: Tiago Maretti Gonçalves Tiago Maretti Gonçalves , Kazumy de Lima Yamaguchi Klenicy
Published: December 2023

Introdução: O uso de Sequências Didática Investigativas (SDI) se desponta como um valioso recurso metodológico para a aprendizagem dos alunos na disciplina de Biologia. Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar uma proposta de sequência didática investigativa como ferramenta facilitadora para a compreensão dos fenômenos biológicos que envolvem o processo de maturação das frutas ocasionado pelos hormônios vegetais. Metodologia: A proposta metodológica consiste em cinco etapas: 1) Introdução ao tema: pergunta norteadora aos alunos sobre a temática da maturação dos frutos, problematização e apresentação dos conhecimentos prévios dos discentes; 2) Prática de campo: visita ao supermercado ou feira local para observação da diversidade e maturação dos frutos; 3) Experimentação: utilização de uma prática experimental sobre o processo de amadurecimento das frutas (banana e maçã), submetido a diferentes condições; 4) Proposição de hipóteses, discussão dos resultados observados; 5) Avaliação. Resultados esperados: A sequência didática proposta busca contribuir como um valioso recurso metodológico para potencializar e facilitar a aprendizagem do conteúdo sobre fisiologia vegetal, além de despertar o senso científico e crítico dos alunos.
PANCS E ANATOMIA DO SISTEMA DIGESTÓRIO: USO DE METODOLOGIA ATIVA PARA ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL E MÉDIO.
Authors: Valentim Marcelo Rocengholli , De Oliveira Maria Jhúlia Valensola , Arns Bruna Peres , Hirata Nathalia Santos , De Oliveira Paula Santana , Defani Marli Aparecida , Barbosa Carmem Patrícia , Martins Isabela Peixoto
Published: December 2023

O sistema digestório é responsável por realizar a absorção dos nutrientes no corpo humano. A ingestão do alimento passa pelo esôfago até chegar no estômago, onde um ácido é lançado sobre o bolo alimentar, transformando o alimento em partículas menores. Após sair do estômago, esse bolo alimentar vai para o intestino delgado, responsável por realizar a absorção desses nutrientes através de suas microvilosidades. O intestino grosso é responsável pela absorção da água e eliminação do bolo fecal. Compreendendo a importância de uma alimentação saudável e diversificada e os processos digestivos e fisiológicos do corpo humano, pode-se entender a importância de uma alimentação diversificada e variada. Como metodologia ativa para o ensino, o presente artigo buscou realizar uma experiência diferente ao demonstrar a importância de uma boa alimentação através de um cardápio com diferentes plantas alimentícias não convencionais (PANCs) e como o corpo consegue absorver diferentes nutrientes provenientes de plantas pouco conhecidas, além da importância de se conhecer a diversidade de alimentos e sua disponibilidade.
Evaluation of effectiveness of disaster risk transfer mechanisms in Sri Lanka
Authors: Lilackshani  N.
Published: December 2023

Disaster risk transfer (DRT) has been identified as a key strategy for managing disaster risks and increasing community resilience. However, the effectiveness of DRT mechanisms is questionable due to natural, socioeconomic, and political factors that may limit their implementation. This study focuses on the case of Batticaloa, Sri Lanka, to examine the implementation and effectiveness of DRT options in reducing disaster risk and enhancing community resilience. The study conducted a case study in three selected GNDs in the Batticaloa district to explore the criteria to assess the effectiveness of disaster risk transfer options. The data was collected through a survey questionnaire and key informant interviews to gather the participants' attitudes and perceptions of DRT mechanisms. The study found that lack of awareness, high costs, and limited coverage were major factors hindering participation in DRT programs. There were also different perspectives among participants on the roles of the government and insurance companies in disaster risk management. The research highlights the importance of enhancing accessibility and affordability of DRT options, and active government involvement in managing disaster risks. It provides a valuable understanding of the local challenges of DRT in Sri Lanka, and recommendations for policymakers and practitioners.
Empower communities: Integrating scientific and stakeholder-based knowledge to simulate future urban growth scenarios using advanced technology for built-form simulation
Authors: Hasan F. , Jayasinghe A.
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the possibility of equipping communities with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to speed up the implementation of sustainable practices. The goal is to model urbanization by soliciting feedback from different stakeholders within the community. The main objective of this study is to determine how community engagement influences the rate at which sustainability efforts progress in simulation. The research uses a participatory methodology, including stakeholder interviews, meetings, and conversations. The research was conducted in Kurunegala and consisted of three primary phases: framework development, effectiveness testing, and lesson documentation. The framework entailed establishing the computational region, designating predictors, evaluating sub-models, constructing scenarios, and evaluating results. Using CA-Markov cellular automata, agent-based modeling (Net-Logo), the Cellular Automata Python model, and MOLUSCE-QGIS, the study modified the FUTURES model to incorporate stakeholder-based knowledge into urban growth modeling. This study emphasizes the need for bottom-up strategies to achieve long-term sustainability by recognizing the worth of community involvement. When stakeholders in a community are given the opportunity they need to succeed, they are more likely to develop into advocates of transformation and supporters of sustainability initiatives.
Diet-tissue discrimination factors of three neotropical freshwater fishes and a comparison of the trophic position
Authors: Manetta Gislaine Iachstel , Ratz Scoarize Matheus Maximilian , Delanira-Santos Driele , Sacramento Patrícia Almeida , Urbano Vinícius de Andrade , Benedito Evanilde
Published: December 2023

The trophic discrimination factor (TDF) is a key parameter for stable isotope analysis and due to a lack of species-specific TDFs, mean universal values have been used, resulting in uncertainties about the trophic position of species and a call for more experiments. In this study, we have addressed the lack of experimental species-specific TDFs conducting three experiments of 128 days each to determine the TDF (muscle and liver) of three species, the piscivore Pseudoplatystoma corruscans (Spix & Agassiz, 1829), and the omnivores Piaractus mesopotamicus (Holmberg, 1887) and Astyanax lacustris (Lütken, 1875), tropical fishes native to the La Plata River basin. Then, we calculated the trophic position (TP) using the mean universal TDF from literature and the species-specific TDF produced in this study for Pseudoplatystoma corruscans. We estimated the TDFs for the three species through experiment and the values found differed from the mean universal TDF in the literature. Moreover, the TP was lower when using the species-specific TDFs. The TP is important for several analyses, including its use in functional diversity. Therefore, we recommend using species-specific TDF values for calculating TP once it differs from the results calculated with mean universal TDF.
Aberrant Radioactive Iodine Uptake in Simple Ovarian Cyst: A Rare Finding
Authors: Singhal Tejasvini , Singh Parneet , Parida Girish Kumar , Kumar Pramit , Patro Sai Sradha P , Agrawal Kanhaiyalal
Published: December 2023

I-131 whole body scan and therapy play an important role in the follow-up of differentiated thyroid carcinoma patients for the detection of residual thyroid tissue and metastatic disease. However, various false-positive findings have been reported in the literature which can appear as metastases. Here, we present one such case, in which an I-131 posttherapy scan revealed false-positive radioactive iodine uptake which localized to a simple ovarian cyst.
Serendipitous Diagnosis of Tertiary Hyperparathyroidism in a Case Purportedly thought to have Skeletal Metastases
Authors: Goel Rashi , Jaleel Jasim , Damle Nishikant , Kaushik Prateek , Gupta Rahul , Vuthaluru Seenu , Radhakrishnan Lakshmi , Kumar Venkatesan Sampath , Tripathi Madhavi , Bal Chandrasekhar S
Published: December 2023

Tertiary hyperparathyroidism (THPT) is characterized by over secretion of parathyroid hormone caused by long-standing secondary hyperparathyroidism. THPT can affect the bones as well as cause extraskeletal calcifications. The bony lesions often mimic multiple skeletal metastases or multiple myeloma. We report a case of a 48-year-old man with chronic kidney disease on dialysis, who presented with chief complaints of low back ache and swelling over the left clavicle. In view of clinical suspicion of malignancy with bony metastases, he underwent 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography and was subsequently found to have parathyroid adenomas, which were confirmed on 99mTc-methoxy-isobutyl-isonitrile scintigraphy.
Role of 99mTc-sestamibi Scintimammography in Predicting Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Locally Advanced Breast Cancer: A Prospective Study
Authors: Moulika Jeepalem Sai , Kalawat Tekchand , Manthri Ranadheer Gupta , Hulikal Narendra , Kadiyala Silpa , Bhargavi D. , Prayaga Aruna Kumari
Published: December 2023

Background:

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is the first line of management for locally advanced breast cancer (LABC). However, chemoresistance is prevalent in 18%–50% of the cases. One of the important and most studied causes of chemoresistance is P-glycoprotein (Pgp) expression. 99mTc-sestamibi scintimammography may serve as a useful imaging tool to predict Pgp expression, thereby response to NACT.

Aim:

The aim was to study the role of 99mTc-sestamibi scintimammography in predicting response to NACT in treatment-naive, biopsy-proven LABC patients.

Materials and Methods:

99mTc-sestamibi scintimammography (early and delayed images) was performed on a total of 34 patients. Eight patients were lost to follow-up, and only 26 (25 females and 1 male) patients were available for final analysis, with a mean age of 49.7 ± 10.7 years. 99mTc-sestamibi washout rate (WOR) (%) and T/B buildup were calculated. Pre-NACT and Post-NACT tumor sizes were measured clinically, and a % decrease in tumor size was calculated. The WOR and T/B buildup values were correlated with the % decrease in tumor size.

Results:

We found a statistically significant negative correlation between WOR (%) and % decrease in tumor size and a statistically significant positive correlation between T/B buildup and % decrease in tumor size. Furthermore, we found a positive correlation between the early T/B ratio and the Ki-67 index (P = 0.22).

Conclusion:

Early categorization of responders and nonresponders can help in optimal therapy planning. 99mTc-sestamibi scintimammography can serve as an imaging marker for Pgp expression, thereby predicting clinical response to NACT in LABC patients. Further studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to consolidate the above findings.
Effectiveness of Head-and-Neck Molecular Imaging Reporting and Data System Criterion in Head-and-Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma PostConcurrent Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Gupta Manoj , Jajodia Ankush , Ahlawat Parveen , Gairola Munish , Agarwal Mudit , Goyal Sumit , Mehta Parv , Choudhury Partha Sarathi
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

Postconcurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT) response assessment has been challenging in locally advanced head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC) due to prevailing postradiation changes. Molecular response methods have been encouraging, although further clarifications and validations were needed. We tested the effectiveness of a proposed semi-quantitative molecular response criterion in these patients.

Materials and Methods:

Two subspecialty-trained physicians evaluated 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography of LA-HNSCC patients (n = 83) post 3 months CRT using a five points Head and Neck Molecular Imaging-Reporting and Data System (HAN-MI-RADS) criterion. Where available, histopathology examination with clinical and imaging interpretation was taken as a reference for the disease. A diagnostic accuracy comparison was done with the existing Hopkins score. Further effectiveness was analyzed with disease-free survival (DFI) and overall survival (OS).

Results:

Metastasis was developed in 11/83 patients at 3 months of evaluation. Of 72 patients, 39, 2, and 31 patients had a complete response, equivocal response, and partial response as per HAN-MI-RADS. Per patient sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy for predicting loco-regional disease up to 1 and 2 years was 93.3%, 92.5%, 90.3%, 94.9%, 92.9%, and 84.9%, 91.9%, 90.3%, 87.2%, and 88.6% respectively. One year and two years DFI for each HAN-MI-RADS score showed a statistically significant difference while it was not for OS. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed significantly better outcome predictability of HAN-MI-RADS (area under the curve [AUC] 0.884) than Hopkins (AUC 0.699).

Conclusions:

A five points HAN-MI-RADS criterion was found promising for response assessment with less equivocal results and statistically significant higher AUC than Hopkins for loco-regional recurrence prediction.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome-like Pattern in a Case of Pancoast Tumor
Authors: Bishnoi Komal , Parida Girish Kumar , Patro P Sai Sradha , Agrawal Kanhaiyalal , Singh Parneet
Published: December 2023

We present the case of a 52-year-old male who was recently diagnosed case of a Pancoast tumor and presented to the pulmonary outpatient department with a complaint of pain in the shoulder and chest region which was burning type, associated with shoulder abduction weakness and poor hand grip. Subsequently, he was referred for a 99m-Tc bone scan for metastatic workup, which showed increased uptake in all the joints and long bones of the ipsilateral upper limb. This case highlights the importance of considering nontraumatic cause of pattern similar to complex regional pain syndrome.
Role of Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Chandra Rudrika , Kumari Sarita , Bhatla Neerja , Kumar Rakesh , Tiwari Abhinav , Sachani Hemant , Kumar Lalit
Published: December 2023

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy with majority of cases diagnosed in advanced stages and associated with high morbidity and mortality. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has emerged as an integral part of the management of several nongynecological cancers. We used PubMed search engine using MeSH words “ovarian cancer” and “PET/CT” and reviewed the current status of PET/CT in epithelial OC. Its application related to ovarian tumor including adnexal mass evaluation, baseline staging, as a triaging tool for upfront surgery or neoadjuvant chemotherapy, for response assessment and prognostication, and for relapse detection and treatment planning has been highlighted. we highlight the current guidelines and newer upcoming PET modalities and radiotracers.
Evaluation of Pendrin Expression Using Nuclear Imaging Modalities and Immunohistochemistry in Animal Thyroid Cancer Model
Authors: Gholve Chandrakala Sanjay , Shete Yogita , Rakshit Sutapa , Kulkarni Savita
Published: December 2023

Context:

The impaired ability of thyroid cancer (TC) cells to uptake and concentrate iodine represents a major therapeutic challenge in malignant TC management. This has been reported probably due to reduced or loss of expression of pendrin in thyroid tumors.

Aims:

In view of this, we evaluated the pendrin expression in the chemically induced (using N-bis[2-hydroxypropyl] nitrosamine [DHPN]) TC model in Wistar rats.

Methods:

Uptake in the thyroid gland was evaluated by positron emission tomography with computed tomography (PET-CT) and scintigraphy imaging. Further histopathology (HP) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed for confirming malignancy.

Results:

The altered uptake in the thyroid gland was observed by PET-CT and scintigraphy imaging. Significant pathological changes in the thyroid were observed using 2-deoxy-2-(fluorine-18) fluoro-D-glucose PET-CT, technetium-99m pertechnetate imaging, and reduced iodine-131 uptake (n = 4) in DHPN-induced animals compared to control indicative of thyroid cell proliferation. In treated groups, tissue HP revealed hyperplastic follicular to papillary cell proliferation with variable mitotic activity. The malignant nature of the tissue and variable uptake of the tracer were further reconfirmed by IHC. IHC revealed reduced pendrin expression in malignant thyroid tissue.

Conclusions:

Hence, nuclear imaging techniques can be of aid in the early identification and evaluation of cellular changes during the early development of tumor models in laboratory animals. In conclusion, our study reveals that pendrin expression plays a vital role in thyroid uptake, and its reduction was observed in TC in a chemically induced TC model.
Comparison of Diagnostic Value between 99mTechnetium-Methylene Diphosphate Bone Scan and 99mTechnetium-Prostate-specific Membrane Antigen Scan in Patients with Prostate Cancer with Osseous Metastases
Authors: Alemi Mohsen , Banouei Farshad , Ahmadi Reyhaneh
Published: December 2023

Background:

Prostate cancer (PCa) ranks as the second most prevalent cancer among men globally. The utilization of efficient and cost-effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches holds paramount importance in the diagnosis and treatment of these patients, significantly impacting treatment outcomes. This study focuses on the investigation and comparison of two commonly employed scans within the treatment process for these patients.

Methods:

In this prospective study, which spanned over 2 years, 40 patients diagnosed with PCa underwent examination using two scans: 99m Technetium-Prostate-specific Membrane Antigen (99mTC-PSMA) Scan and between Technetium-Methylene Diphosphate (99mTC-MDP) Bone Scan. The findings of these scans were then compared with each other, as well as with the results obtained from magnetic resonance imaging and the prostate-specific antigen level. The analysis of the results was conducted utilizing SPSS 22 software, and descriptive statistical methods were employed to present the findings.

Results:

In this prospective study, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of the 99mTC-MDP Bone Scan were found to be 88.2%, 83.3%, 96.7%, 55.5%, and 87.5%, respectively. Similarly, for the 99mTC-PSMA Scan, the corresponding values were 94.1%, 83.3%, 96.4%, 83.3%, and 92.5%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the diagnostic accuracy of the 99mTC-PSMA Scan is marginally higher compared to the 99mTC-MDP Bone Scan. Therefore, for patients who are limited to only one scan, the 99mTC-PSMA Scan appears to be the preferable choice.
Beware of the Coated Aorta in Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography–Computed Tomography: A Specific Clue to the Diagnosis of Erdheim–Chester Disease in a Case of Brain and Orbital Lesions with Unknown Primary
Authors: Kamaleshwaran Koramadai Karuppusamy , Ramkumar Elumalai
Published: December 2023

Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) is a systemic histiocytosis that can involve several organs, with severity ranging from occult to life-threatening. The disease was first described by William Chester in 1930 after working with the Austrian pathologist Jakob Erdheim. Even today, a correct diagnosis of ECD often takes years, given the rarity and variable manifestations of ECD. We present a case of a 63-year-old female presenting with multiple brain lesions, sent for fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography to find primary, and it showed hypermetabolic right occipital brain lesion, right orbital lesion, and soft tissue around the arch of the aorta (coated aorta), and final histopathology of the brain lesion confirmed histiocytosis ECD.
Cavernous Hepatic Hemangioma at 18F-Choline Positron Emission Tomography–Computed Tomography: Be Aware of the Pitfall
Authors: Maffione Anna Margherita , Urso Luca , Caterina Modonesi , Chondrogiannis Sotirios , Grassetto Gaia , Bartoletti Paola , Marzola Maria Cristina
Published: December 2023

We report a case of a patient performing a positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET-CT) scan with [18F]F-Choline for biochemical relapse (Prostate specific antigen (PSA) 1.2 ng/ml) of prostate cancer. Two large areas of focal uptake with a cold core within the liver were observed. A contrast-enhanced ultrasound scan performed after the PET scan characterized these lesions as cavernous hepatic hemangiomas, and therefore, a biopsy was not performed; 3 years of follow-up and PET and MRI finding stability confirmed the benignity of their nature.
Managing complications in Charcot neuroarthropathy: A case report on hindfoot nailing and peri-implant fractures
Authors: Moonot Pradeep , Reddy Santhosh Chandra , Dakhode Shubham Yashwant
Published: December 2023

Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) is a serious complication of diabetes, causing foot bone and joint damage. Hindfoot nail surgery is a common procedure for hindfoot Charcot arthropathy. However, postsurgical complications can occur due to inadequate planning. This case report discusses one such postsurgical uncommon complication in the management of a hind foot CN with a hind foot nail. A 50-year-old patient with severe diabetes presented with hindfoot issues, leading to a CN (diagnosis). A two-stage surgical approach, involving an external fixator and later a tibiotalocalcaneal nail, was initially pursued. However, a peri-implant fracture occurred, prompting a revision surgery with a longer nail insertion, ultimately resulting in successful postoperative healing and hindfoot fusion. The management of hind foot CN in diabetic patients can be complex. This case report highlights a postsurgical complication, a peri-implant fracture, which required revision surgery with a longer nail for successful healing. Meticulous planning, vigilant postoperative monitoring, and longer nails that cross the pin tract site can help to avoid such complications.
Validation of a Risk Stratification Tool among Full-term Neonates with Suspicion of Invasive Bacterial Infections
Authors: Almalki Faisal Ghazi , Alhindi Mohammed Yasir , Alwarthan Abdulaziz Abdulrahman , Alharbi Sulaiman Ahmed , Alharthi Yasser Ali , AlZaid Ahmed Abdullatif , Khan Rayan Ayoub , Abed Sara Seraj , AlQurashi Mansour Abdullah
Published: December 2023

Context:

The emergence of neonatal invasive bacterial infections (IBIs) poses a formidable challenge to health-care providers worldwide. The combination of nonspecific clinical symptoms, in addition to the absence of an acceptable sensitive test, resembles a dilemma for clinicians to diagnose or safely rule out the presence of infections. A newly developed tool by Chen et
al. stratifies the risk of full-term neonates suspected of IBI. This model works by identifying neonates who need immediate antibiotic treatment from those who only need observational and continuous reassessment.

Aims:

The purpose of the study was to validate Chen et
al.’s risk stratification tool.

Settings and Design:

This is a retrospective cohort study.

Subjects and Methods:

The following parameters are required to utilize this tool: ill appearance, abnormal neurological signs, age at admission, white blood cell, neutrophil percentage, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin (PCT).

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data management and analysis were carried out using SPSS version 25.

Results:

Out of 768 neonates screened for IBIs, we identified 100 babies suspected of IBI regardless of PCT availability. Out of those, 30 neonates were eligible to be entered into the calculator and used for the validation process. The number of neonates who had IBIs was found to be 14 babies. Neonatal IBI incidence in full-term babies was estimated to be 0.79/1000 live births. Specificity, negative predictive value, and accuracy of the validated tool were reported as 82.14% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 63.11%–93.94%), 99.9% (95% CI: 99.88%–99.91%), and 82.07% (95% CI: 63.81%–93.59%), respectively.

Conclusions:

Overall, the tool demonstrated a poor outcome in terms of detecting those with IBI but excellent outcomes in identifying healthy babies.