Manila Central University

Inflammation is a vital biological response to injury and infection, but its persistence beyond resolution stages contributes to a range of chronic diseases, including arthritis, asthma and autoimmune disorders. The nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κΒ) pathway has emerged as a central mediator in sustaining inflammatory cascades through Pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules undergo transcriptional regulation. Although conventional anti-inflammatory drugs may offer short-term relief, their long-term use is frequently limited by serious side effects and inadequate targeting of the root causes. In recent years, medicinal plants have gained attention for their potential to manage inflammation in a safer and more holistic way. This narrative review focuses on five such plants- Eclipta alba, Zingiber officinalis, Asparagus racemosus, Phyllanthus emblica and Justica adhatoda- all of which have shown notable analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. These herbs act through various mechanisms, including suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibition of oxidative stress and modulation of NF-κΒ pathway. Beyond these, the review also highlights other herbal agents known for influencing inflammatory responses through NF-κΒ inhibition. The article further discusses the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases, the biological role of NF-κB, and the limitations of existing treatment options. Together, this review emphasizes the growing relevance of plant-based therapies as effective and safer alternatives for inflammation-related disorders, especially those involving NF-κΒ dysregulation.

The incidence of early-onset lung cancer (EOLC), often defined as those that occur in adults under the age of 50, is increasing globally. Asia accounted for almost 76% of EOLC cases worldwide. This presents a challenge given previous limited studies and the socioeconomic implications. References were identified through a PubMed, Scopus and Web of science search for relevant articles published in 2000 to April 2025 using the terms 'lung carcinoma or cancer', 'early-onset' or 'young adults', and 'Asia'. Early-onset lung cancers are more common in female, primarily presenting as adenocarcinoma, and tends to be diagnosed at an advanced stage. There is a high prevalence of potentially targetable genomic alterations: 30-56.3% EGFR mutations and 16.1-50% ALK rearrangements. Comparative analyses show higher prevalence of actionable genetic alterations ROS1, and RET fusions and ERBB2 mutations compared to older patients. Air pollution is a significant risk factor for lung cancer in Asia. MUC16, a transmembrane glycoprotein, is overexpressed in lung cancer, particularly in patients exposed to indoor air pollution. Patients with EOLC exhibit impaired cell-mediated immunity with reduced T cell infiltration. This suggests a potentially limited response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies in this patient group. The incidence of EOLC is increasing in Asia. This accounts for 75.9% of global cases. The research conducted in the region are mostly retrospective and, majority are single-institution studies. Due to its unique clinical and molecular features, EOLC requires dedicated research efforts and tailored interventions.

This study determined the significant influence of school head leadership practices and work task motivation as predictors of teachers’ behaviour. The quantitative approach using the correlational technique and analysis was utilized in this study with a sample of 325 teachers from the elementary schools of Caraga District, Schools Division of the City of Davao Oriental. Sets of adapted survey questionnaires were used to obtain data from the respondents subjected to content validity and reliability analysis. The data were analyzed using the Mean, Pearson-r, and Multiple Regression Analysis. The results reveal that the leadership practices were rated very high, and work task motivation was also rated as high. At the same time, teacher behaviour was rated high. Moreover, a significant relationship existed between these variables. A significant relationship between leadership practices and teacher behaviour was significant. A significant relationship between work task motivation and teacher behaviour was also significant. The extent of the influence of predictor variables on teacher behaviour was proven significant in the study.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0789/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Choledocholithiasis presents variably, with some patients remaining asymptomatic, complicating decisions regarding the timing and necessity of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). This study represents the first meta-analysis assessing the impact of symptomatic status on post-ERCP complications and provides critical data to optimize treatment strategies. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by searching PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar through February 2024, focusing on comparing ERCP outcomes between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with choledocholithiasis. Seven studies were included from an initial pool of 1,200 articles screened. The analysis revealed that asymptomatic patients exhibited a significantly higher overall complication rate (17.4% vs. 6.6%), including a threefold increase in the risk of developing complications overall (OR: 3.02; 95% CI: 2.26-4.03) and specifically post-ERCP pancreatitis (OR: 3.62; 95% CI: 2.63-4.99). Perforation and procedural durations were also notably higher among asymptomatic individuals. Subgroup analyses highlighted prolonged cannulation times and the use of precut sphincterotomy as potential influential factors. These findings challenge the current practice that does not differentiate based on symptomatic status and suggest a need for more tailored approaches in managing asymptomatic individuals to minimize risks associated with ERCP.

ObjectivePatients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may present with more tender than swollen joints, which can persist. Elevated tender‐swollen joint difference (TSJD) is often challenging, because there may be multiple causes and it may contribute to overestimating disease activity. Little is known about the phenotype and impact of TSJDs on patient function. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of TSJD on functional outcomes in early RA and to see whether associations vary by joint size.MethodsData were from patients with active, early RA (≤12 months) enrolled in the Canadian Early Arthritis Cohort, who completed assessments of general function (Multidimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire [MDHAQ]), upper extremity (UE) function (Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders [Neuro‐QoL] UE scale), and work/activity impairment (Work Productivity and Activity Impairment RA) over their first year of follow‐up. A total of 28 joint counts were performed. TSJDs were calculated. Adjusted associations between TSJDs and functional outcomes were estimated in separate multivariable linear mixed effects models. Separate analyses were performed for large‐ versus small‐joint TSJD.ResultsPatients (N = 547) were 70% female, mean age 56 (SD 15) years, mean disease duration 5.3 (SD 2.9) months. At baseline, 287 (52%) had TSJD >0 (43% involved large joints and 34% small joints), decreasing to 32% at 12 months. A one‐point increase in TSJD was significantly associated with worse function (MDHAQ: adjusted mean change 0.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.08–0.13; Neuro‐QoL UE function T score: adjusted mean change −0.59, 95% CI −0.76 to −0.43; and greater work impairment: adjusted mean change 1.95%, 95% CI 0.85%–3.05%). Higher large‐joint TSJDs were associated with the worst functional outcomes.ConclusionHaving more tender than swollen joints is common in early RA and is associated with worse function, most notably when involving large joints. Early identification and targeted intervention strategies may be needed.

Background: Nursing serve as frontline in the delivery of care. Health care services focus on the complexity of cultural diversity to meet the multicultural clients therefore it necessary to have cultural competency in providing quality care from diverse background. Nurses must have that confidence in performing their duties, this includes plan of care that appropriate base on their patient beliefs or practices. Nurses with transcultural competency can overcome any challenges in serving the patient. Cultural skills showcase competency. In contrast, Nurses with low cultural competency tend to be avoidant to the patient in clinical assessment due to barriers like communication, lack of awareness and sensitivity in patient beliefs and practices. Purpose: The objective of this study is to investigate nurses in providing culturally congruent care for the patient with diverse background. Tailored with cultural competency in understanding patient situation in rendering services. Methods: The study utilize method by Walker and Avant in studying literature of different concepts of nurses pertaining to their nursing competency. The process of concept analysis as follows [1] selection of concept [2] establishing the purpose [3] concept confirmation [4] identification of concept attributes [5] presentation of model case [6] provide constructing borderline, and other cases [7] identification of antecedent and consequences [8] Identification of empirical references. [1]. Results: The research shows that nurses adhere responsibilities in providing care. It highlights knowledge and skills in the improvement of cross cultural health care. The use of concept such as cultural health, cultural education and cultural care serve as foundation in the concept of culturally competency. Nurses’ attributes such as cultural awareness, cultural knowledge and cultural communication skills in providing quality of care to the patient sharing common goals and creating meaningful partnership in health the care plan. Conclusion: Cultural competence is an ability that is being developed gradually and that those who have already gained more experiences have been proven to be more aware and culturally competent than those with only some to little experiences.

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that affects mature B cells. MCL has been found to have extranodal involvement in the bone marrow, spleen, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. It is most commonly associated with lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly, but a leukemic presentation is unusual. Colon cancer and mantle cell lymphoma coexisting in the same gut is unusual. This study has been submitted as a case report for publication. After being diagnosed with recurrent mantle cell lymphoma, a 45-year-old male patient was admitted for the third cycle of treatment. A colonoscopy revealed mantle cell lymphoma, which had previously been treated with chemotherapy and now appears to be active in the ileocecal region. A biopsy was performed for further investigation. Histopathology reveals small intestine mantle cell lymphoma, and the patient is currently undergoing chemotherapy. After the third cycle of chemotherapy was planned with medical management, the patient was referred for oncologic treatment. We present a case of MCL with large nodules in the last 5 cm of the ileum, as well as the workup of this uncommon lymphoma, which clinicians may be asked to detect and manage. This report serves as a reminder to maintain a broad differential to account for uncommon diseases and pathology. Practising with a thorough understanding of medical principles and clinical acumen is critical for optimal patient care and, as demonstrated in this case, avoiding a potential surgical intervention that would delay appropriate chemotherapy.

This literature assessment explores the difficult courting among social relationships and the health of the aged, spanning intellectual, emotional, and bodily dimensions. Emotional support, a cornerstone for mental well-being, is discovered to buffer the impact of stressors, alleviate depression and tension, and provide cognitive advantages. Social connections positively influence cardiovascular fitness, immune system function, and healthful behaviours, emphasizing their complete impact on physical well-being. However, the converse is determined inside the context of social isolation, a massive chance aspect for the elderly. Socially isolated individuals face heightened mortality dangers, cognitive decline, and compromised physical fitness. Recognizing the interaction between social relationships and health is important for developing holistic interventions that cope with the numerous wishes of growing older populations. As the global populace a while, prioritizing the advertising of robust social connections is paramount for permitting the elderly to age with resilience and an enhanced best of life.