bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing and Improving Processes and Outcomes of the McGill Primary Health Care Research Network (summer bursary)
Authors: Shang Zhida , Gagnon Justin , Granikov Vera , Rodriguez Rosario , Pluye Pierre
Published: February 2021

Background: The McGill Primary Health Care Research Network (the Network) is a Practice-Based Research Network (PBRN) that promotes the collaboration between researchers and clinicians in research. The Network follows an approach called Organizational Participatory Research (OPR).Purpose: To discover the processes and outcomes associated with the Network, to learn about researcher and clinician collaboration within the Network and to propose recommendations and a revised questionnaire.Methods: A thematic qualitative data analysis was conducted. The data that was analyzed consisted of the diaries of two diaries of two Network coordinators, email correspondence between the core group members and the coordinators, and the minutes of 12 core group meetings. The data were interpreted according to the Capacity Building Framework. Then, codes were organized according to 10 framework-based meta-themes (5 domain-related processes, and 5 domain-related outcomes) and grouped in 24 key-themes (key processes and outcomes).Results: A leadership process was researchers promoting communication within the Network which resulted in clinicians becoming project leaders. An organizational development outcome was members' research projects being completed. Partnership processes involved researchers and clinicians identifying their respective challenges to partnerships. The main outcome was collaboration. Resource allocation processes included time and funding management, with accommodation to time constraints as an outcome. Workforce development processes included researchers educating clinicians, which resulted in networking core group members and positive learning experiences.  Conclusions: The results suggested practice and policy recommendations. Based on the results, an improved mailing policy, a wiki/blog, a more humble approach for researchers and a questionnaire were proposed.
Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System - Prostate Cancer
Authors: Xuan Lisa
Published: February 2021

Media: Digital Illustration Artist statement:1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime. Prostate cancer can affect lymph flow, the colon, and ureter, causing symptoms such as urinary trouble, back pain and more. This schematic drawing of the Male Reproductive System could be used in a physician's office to aid explaination of this common disease.
A comparative cadaveric biomechanical analysis of the differences between dynamic external traction devices for PIP joint fracture dislocation.
Authors: Thibaudeau Stephanie , Diaz-Abele Julian , Luc Mario
Published: February 2021

Purpose: No study in the literature compares different external distractors for PIPJ injury. We compared a device described by Suzuki et al and another by Hynes & Giddins in non-injured cadaveric fingers. Main outcome measures were articular space and PIPJ flexion resistance.Methods: Thirty-two Thiel embalmed fingers were used. The elastics based model was performed with 3 and 5 elastics per side (3E and 5E); the 2-pin model used no elastics (2P). Articular distraction of each device was measured using x-ray imaging. The force required to flex the PIP joint to 45˚ and 90˚ in each group was measured with a dynamometer.Main findings: The articular distraction was statistically significant for all groups. The difference in articular distraction was significant in the AP view between groups 3E and 2P, and 5E and 2P. Flexion forces were only significant between group 5E and 2P at 90˚ flexion, but resistance was notably higher in group 2P than in groups 3E and 5E. Group 2P was more difficult to engage and often disengaged in flexion compared to groups 3E and 5E.Conclusion: All devices achieved significant articular distraction (>99% in AP) but optimal distraction has not been clinically determined and may depend on each unique fracture, hence a variable distraction device may be optimal. The 3E and 5E models can be adjusted for distraction by adding the sufficient elastics to reduce individual fractures. The increased resistance to PIP flexion found in the 2P model may limit post-op mobilization, but clinical correlation is needed.
Bio-Engineering in Microtia Reconstruction: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lafrenière Ann-Sophie
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Three-dimensional (3D) modeling and printing have become widely adopted in surgical fields, whether it be for pre-operative planning, production of prostheses, outcomes monitoring and even surgical training. Plastic and reconstructive surgeons have shown interest in using 3D technology in craniofacial reconstruction, in particular for microtia.  Discussion: In patients with unilateral microtia, 3D modeling and printing of their normal contralateral ear to use as an intra-operative reference during costochondral or MedPor carving were preferred by surgeons to traditional 2D drawings as they provide the depth aspect of the ear and logistically save time. Combining tissue engineering with 3D modeling and printing by seeding chondrocytes onto a customized biodegradable ear framework is promising to restore aesthetics and obviates certain challenges of the autologous costochondral graft technique.Conclusions and relevance: Microtia is a common congenital malformation and its current gold standard is technically challenging. As medicine is moving towards personalized medicine, 3D modeling and printing will definitely play a larger role in various surgical fields, including microtia reconstruction. Future studies will likely focus on refining the acquisition of images to produce 3D models, standardizing tissue engineering techniques and using bioprinting to produce external ears once the technology is clinically applicable.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Secondary to Acute Thrombosis of Persistent Median Artery and Review of the Literature
Authors: Lessard Antoine
Published: February 2021

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common neuropathy of the upper extremity.1 We report a case in which a twenty-eight-year-old manual labourer presented with acute thrombosis in a persistent median artery which triggered acute carpal tunnel symptoms. A bifid median nerve was found upon carpal tunnel release. The knowledge of the existence of this anatomic variation is important in order to prevent inadvertent injury. We further discuss the possible aetiologies for CTS as well as neurovascular anomalies which may lead to median nerve compression at the wrist.
Immune dysfunction in spaceflight and diabetes mellitus – translating space observations to terrestrial disease
Authors: Ahmed Adil S. , Ramachandran Vignesh , O'Conor Daniel K. , Antonsen Erik L.
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Spaceflight alters normal physiology of cells and tissues seen on Earth. Immune cells and signaling molecules appear to be particularly affected, resulting in changes in leukocyte populations, killing ability and effector function, and signaling molecule response. Akin to spaceflight, diabetes mellitus produces significant immune system dysfunction. Applying observations and interventions from spaceflight to conditions such as diabetes mellitus may help to identify new approaches that combat the high clinical and financial burden of terrestrial disease.Discussion: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar. Papers of immune cells conducted in space and studies on diabetes mellitus-related immune dysfunction were included. Broad themes of immunosuppression were seen in both spaceflight and diabetes mellitus. Effects on lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, fibroblasts, growth factors, and inflammatory factors are presented.Conclusions: Immune responses to spaceflight and DM are inconsistent. The innate immune system responds similarly to spaceflight and DM. In contrast, the adaptive immune system responds differently to spaceflight than to DM. This difference may be the result of a glucocorticoid dominant response linked to innate suppression and a Th2 lymphocyte shift.Relevance: Diabetes mellitus causes major morbidity and mortality on Earth. Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms behind these differences and develop countermeasures for immunosuppression in space with application towards diabetic therapy on earth. Furthermore, commercial spaceflight makes it all the more necessary to elucidate these mechanisms as civilian participants with diabetes mellitus or other immune-altering conditions may be space bound.
Ripe
Authors: Niburski Kacper
Published: February 2021

The this is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental in the same way a flower described here would not smell as good as the real.
Pioneers in Anesthesia: The Bourne Generation
Authors: Manaloor Robin
Published: February 2021

A reflection and essay on the life and achievements of Dr. Wesley Bourne. As an early pioneer in the history of Canadian anesthesiology, Dr. Bourne would pave the path for an entire generation of anesthesiologists to come.
Women in Medicine: Dr. Lysanne Campeau
Authors: Peel Geneviève
Published: February 2021

Dr. Lysanne Campeau (M.D., C.M., Ph.D., F.R.C.S.C.) is an Assistant Professor of Urology at McGill University’s Jewish General Hospital. Through her flamboyant career in medicine, her research accomplishments and her advocacy work for gender equality in medicine, she is a model of ambition, dedication and passion. Dr. Campeau completed medical school as well as her urology residency at McGill University. She is the first woman to complete her entire residency at McGill University in this specific field. Dr. Campeau then went on to complete a clinical fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery at New York University, as well as a Ph.D. in Physiology and Pharmacology at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine. She then came back to work as a urologist at the Jewish General Hospital and a clinical researcher at the Lady Davis Institute. Her research interests lie in female pelvic medicine, voiding dysfunction and urogenital reconstruction. In addition to her clinical and academic duties, Dr. Campeau is involved in teaching urology residents as well as in some volunteer endeavours in the community. A resilient person, Dr. Campeau builds on her experience of gender discrimination in medicine to advocate for equality in her field. She also aims to raise awareness on the topic of incontinence, which is often taboo among the public. Through awareness campaigns as well as her innovative research in the field, Dr. Campeau works to develop new treatments and improve outcomes for patients who suffer from this condition. Dr. Campeau is a positive leader and role model for aspiring female physicians, to whom she advises to cultivate adaptiveness, integrity and honesty in order to navigate the challenging journey that is medicine.
Stories of institutional and local policy change from Harvard’s Cambridge Health Alliance
Authors: Dawson Debra Ann
Published: February 2021

In May of 2017, myself and five other first and second year McGill Medical students embarked on a cultural exchange with Harvard medical students.  This is an annual program run by Dr. Semaan, professor at Harvard Medical School, and McGill Medicine graduate. During the exchange, we had the opportunity to attend some pointed lectures which had the goal of illustrating some of the realities of the health care system in the Cambridge-Boston area.  This article is a reflection on the talk given by Dr. David Bor of the Cambridge Health Alliance titled “Cambridge Health Alliance: A Public, Academic Community-Responsive Health Care System”, wherein he provided inspiring personal stories of institutional and policy change pursuits he was involved in in response to needs of the local population.
75 million syringes but nothing to put in them: what is Canada’s plan for a COVID-19 vaccine?
Authors: Dankner Matthew , Michell-Robinson Mackenzie A
Published: February 2021

The Canadian government recently announced, to much fanfare, that they have begun procuring the supplies that will be essential for mass vaccination against COVID-19, beginning with an agreement for 75 million syringes, alcohol swabs and bandages. This is certainly good news, and it is absolutely worthwhile to think about these possibly overlooked factors needed to effectively vaccinate the population. But what will we vaccinate them with? Dankner and Michell-Robinson argue that in the current political climate, the Canadian Government must act now to invest in securing early vaccine doses from promising trials as well as make long term plans to bolster the Canadian industrial scientific sector in order to avoid future issues with drug development during international crises.
Approach to: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Authors: Ni Alexander
Published: February 2021

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in the world, affecting developing and developed countries alike. Recent advancements in medical and interventional therapies have led to decreasing overall mortality rates in the last decade. Despite these improvements, COPD continues to cause significant morbidity and lost productivity. This review summarizes the pathophysiology of COPD and the work-up of a patient with suspected COPD, emphasizing pulmonary function testing, an approach to treatment, and the management of COPD exacerbations.
Finite element study of sitting configurations to reduce sacroiliac joint loads
Authors: Bozzo Isabella , Malz Brandon
Published: February 2021

Low back pain can be caused by prolonged sitting, originating in the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) in up to 30% of patients. The goal of this study was to develop a finite element model of the lower back and pelvis to study sitting configurations that could minimize the loads in the SIJ while sitting. The configurations were based on chair designs with geometries known to show some benefits according to literature: a 5° downward seat pan tilt and a 20° backrest recline. Both chairs were evaluated in neutral spine position with upright posture and 30° forward leaning configurations. A finite element model of the lumbar spine, pelvis and femurs was developed to compute the reaction forces at the SIJ. The intricate spinal geometry was simplified, and isotropic material properties were assumed for all components. The chair reaction forces were first computed analytically, then inputted as loads on the model. The results demonstrate that the improved sitting configuration reduced the loads in the SIJ compared to a conventional chair in both upright and forward leaning positions by 5.57 % body weight (BW) and 14.18 %BW, respectively. The proposed sitting configuration with a downward inclined seat pan and forward leaning back was shown to be an effective method to reduce SIJ loads.
Approach to: Febrile seizures
Authors: Dabirzadeh Anita
Published: February 2021

Febrile seizures are the most common neurological condition of childhood. They are defined as seizures occurring between 6-months to 6-years of age, associated with a fever, in a child without any evidence of an intracranial or other definable cause. This aritcle provides an approach to diagnosis and treatment of febrile seizures intended for pre-clinical and clinical students.
Optimum Radiological Screening Examination for Lumbar Spine
Authors: Etemad-Rezai Roya , V. Fenton Paul
Published: February 2021

A retrospective study was performed to assess the diagnostic contribution of oblique view films of the lumbar spine, to information obtained from anteroposterior (AP) and lateral films, as an initial screening tool for the detection of pars interarticularis defects. Twenty-two cases of lumbar spondylolysis were selected from 243 lumbar spine reports, randomly combined with 40 plain X-rays of normal lumbar spines, and evaluated by radiology residents. The frequency of correctly detecting a pars defect on lateral vs. right and left oblique views was determined. Of the bilateral spondylolyses, 85% were diagnosed on lateral films compared to 35% on oblique radiographs. Both views gave poor diagnostic yield in detecting unilateral pars defects. In evaluating a total of 186 X-rays, an average of 31 oblique films were incorrectly diagnosed, as compared to an average of 14 misdiagnosed lateral films. Considering the low sensitivity associated with the use of oblique view radiography, in addition to the extra cost and significantly increased radiation exposure seen with this procedure, our findings indicate that oblique views should be used only for selected patients who might require further investigation. We therefore recommend that the initial lumbosacral radiological evaluation be limited to AP and lateral views.
Role of Intraoperative Frozen Section Diagnosis in the Management of Patients with CNS Lesions: Evaluation of 60 Consecutive Intraoperative Frozen Sections from 1991 to 1993
Authors: Mirsattari Seyed , W. Saunders Fraser
Published: February 2021

To determine the role of intraoperative frozen sections (FSs) in the management of patients with central nervous system (CNS) lesions, 60 consecutive intraoperative clinical diagnoses of CNS lesions were presented and compared with concomitantly obtained FS diagnoses. Clinical diagnoses were established byhistory, physical examination, imaging techniques, and gross appearance of the abnormal tissue in situ. Tissue samples were obtained intraoperatively and processed for FS diagnoses. The findings of the FS diagnoses were reported to the operating room and compared with the clinical diagnoses. The remainingbiopsy samples were used to prepare paraffin-embedded tissue sections from which the definitive diagnoses were made. Comparison of the clinical and FS diagnoses, using paraffin-embedded tissue as the true diagnosis, shows that FS diagnosis has a limited contribution to intraoperative patient management by the neurosurgeon. The rate of diagnostic failures between the two techniques was very similar; clinical diagnoses and FSs were misinterpreted in 12 and 11 of the 60 cases, respectively. Compared to a clinical diagnosis, the intraoperative FS technique provided no significant improvement in diagnosis and management; it altered the intraoperative management of the patients in 2 of 60 cases.
The Cytoplasmic Droplets of Rat Epididymal Spermatozoa Show Diminution of Glycosyl Transferases During Spermatozoa Epididymal Maturation
Authors: Chan Peter
Published: February 2021

The cytoplasmic droplet of the epididymal spermatozoon is a small localized outpouching of cytoplasm of the tail and is of unknown significance. Electron microscopy revealed flattened saccular elements of almost exclusive membranous components. In this study, a simple, reproducible method for the isolation of saccular elements from the caput and the cauda of rat epididymal spermatozoa is presented. Using exogenous glycosylation assays and immunocytochemistry for light and electron microscopy, we confirm the presence of three Golgi markers in the saccular elements of rat cytoplasmic droplets, namely, a-2,6-sialyltransferase, b- 1,4-galactosyltransferase and TGN-38 (trans-Golgi network protein). The variation in galactosyltransferase activity of isolated saccular elements in response to in vitro trypsinization was similar to that observed in the rat liver Golgi apparatus. Electrophoresis and immunoblotting analyses revealed polypeptide modifications in the saccular elements during spermatozoa epididymal transit. In addition, a significant decline in the content of galactosyltransferase and sialyltransferase occurred in the saccular elements during spermatozoa transit from the caput to the cauda epididymides. The content of TGN-38, however, did not show any significant change, suggesting that the modification of the content of the saccular elements is selective. Considering the glycosylating ability of the saccular elements and that the diminution of glycosyltransferase activities in cytoplasmic droplets coincides with the maturation of spermatozoa during epididymal transit, we suggest a potential role for the saccular elements of cytoplasmic droplets in the maturation of spermatozoa during their transit through the epididymis.
Synthetic Function and Regulation of Osteoblasts: Current Knowledge and Applications
Authors: Millett Peter J. , Allen Matthew J. , Rushton Neil
Published: February 2021

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Epidemiologic Health Survey of a Rural Peasant Association in Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Kebede Surafel , Fisihatsion Teferi , Tesfaye Worksew , Asres Tekleselassie , Kemal Nurishek , Dubale Tewodros , Tadios Yonas , Anmaw Tadesse , Mekonen Worku , Turner Joel
Published: February 2021

In many developing countries, health care is either severely inadequate or ineffective. This is especially true in Ethiopia where the rates of infant mortality, child mortality, and maternal mortality are approximately 10-100 times higher than those found in developed countries. However, reliable and comprehensive data on the incidence and prevalence of endemic diseases in many regions of the country are scarce. In the present study, we performed a cross-sectional census survey of a rural peasant association in the Jimma region in southwestern Ethiopia to (i) gather demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the community and (ii) assess the primary health problems facing the children and women of childbearing age. Our data demonstrate that there was a significant lack of proper sanitation and personal hygiene: 90% of households shared living space with domestic animals, less than 10% of households were equipped with a latrine, and nearly 40% of all water was obtained from unprotected springs and rivers. Of the 166 women of childbearing age (15-49 years), only 13.8% had any knowledge of methods of contraception, and almost 90% had experienced a teenage pregnancy. Less than 2% of all deliveries were aided by trained traditional birth attendants or health professionals. The two-week period prevalence of acute childhood diarrhea was 26.3% and less than 10% of all diarrheal cases were treated with oral rehydration solution. Regarding the nutritional status of children under five years of age, 56.3% were suffering from moderate to severe protein-energy malnutrition based on weight for age, and 57% were moderately to severely stunted based on height for age measurements. Finally, over 90% of randomly chosen individuals were found to be positive for an intestinal parasitic infection. The results demonstrate that there is a great need for improvement in several basic health areas, including the environmental sanitary conditions of the community, as well as the fundamental health status of women and children. Our findings suggest that specific intervention programs must be initiated in order to address the basic health problems facing this rural community.
A Review of the Actions of D-cycloserine, a Putative Nootropic Agent, at the NMDA Receptor Complex-Associated Glycine Binding Site
Authors: Allen J.W
Published: February 2021

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Plasma Homocysteine and Vascular Disease
Authors: Elian Kelly M
Published: February 2021

Vascular disease is the leading cause of death and disability in the Western World: atherosclerosis is responsible for the majority of deaths in virtually all westernized societies; pulmonary embolism, a complication of deep venous thrombosis, is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, resulting in approximately 50,000 deaths per year in the United States; approximately 1.5 million acute myocardial infarcts occur each year, each infarction bearing a 30% mortality rate; and strokes represent the third leading cause of death in developed countries (1). While the adverse effects of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, and smoking on the vascular system have received widespread publicity, another important risk factor for vascular disease--less well-known outside the medical community but recently gaining increasing attention in the literature is an elevated plasma level of the amino acid homocysteine. Bolstered by findings of an association between hyperhomocysteinemia and a variety of vascular disorders, theories implicating homocysteine in the pathogenesis of these disorders have inspired researchers to explore novel approaches in the prevention and treatment of vascular disease. With the biochemistry of homocysteine metabolism already well understood, vitamin supplementation has emerged as a promising strategy for reduction of plasma homocysteine levels, with consequent arrest or reversal of the postulated pathogenic mechanisms involved in homocysteine-associated disorders of the vasculature, and, thus, potential prevention and treatment of vascular disease in hyperhomocysteinemic patients.
The Subnuclear Distribution of 5-HT1A Receptors in the Human Nucleus of the Solitary Tract and Selected Structures of the Caudal Medulla
Authors: Spurney Christopher F. , Ohuoha Donald C. , Murray Angela M. , Kleinman Joel E. , Hyde Thomas M.
Published: February 2021

The distribution of 5-HT1A receptors in the subnuclei of the human caudal nucleus of solitary tract and adjacent structures in the dorsal vagal complex was studied using [3H]8-OH-DPAT, a highly selective 5-HT1A receptor agonist. The highest binding of the labeled ligand was found in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, followed by the medial, intermediate, and subpostremal subnuclei of the nucleus of solitary tract. Previous animal studies suggest an important role for these structures in the regulation of visceral function, particularly for the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. The results of this study suggest the possibility of an analogous role for 5-HT1A receptors in the regulation of these autonomic pathways in humans as well.
Penicillin Resistant Bacteremic Pneumococcal Pneumonia
Authors: Robson Hugh G
Published: February 2021

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Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma in a 16 Year-Old Male: Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment
Authors: Choremis Johanna , Frenkiel Saul
Published: February 2021

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A Trans-Atlantic Cooperation in the Medical Sciences
Authors: Lueder Steffen
Published: February 2021

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When politics and medicine clash: JAMA's editorial decisions and the AMA
Authors: Keller Robert
Published: February 2021

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Spectral Differences Between Normal and Atherosclerotic Aorta
Authors: Korovin Nikolay
Published: February 2021

Ischemic heart disease associated with coronary artery atherosclerosis is a leading cause ofdeath in the world today. In addition to standard treatments such as balloon angioplasty, laser mediated angioplasty is being considered as a potential adjuvant or replacement. Nevertheless, experiments and clinical experience have demonstrated that laser angioplasty is associated with damage to normal vessel tissue, which can cause serious complications. To study the possibility of minimizing these effects by directing laser energy more specifically to atherosclerotic lesions, data concerning the spectral characteristics of normal and diseased artery are necessary. In the current study, the absorbance, reflection and fluorescence spectra of normal and atherosclerotic aortic wall tissue are defined, revealing that (i) spectral characteristics of atherosclerotic aorta wall samples are significantly differed from that of healthy vascular wall samples and (ii) based on a spectral analysis of vascular wall, it is possible to distinguish morphological types of atherosclerotic plaques (i.e., lipidic, calcified). The current study contributes to a more complete understanding of laser-tissue interactions that may, following more experimentation and technique development, result in an improvement of clinical laser angioplasty technique.
Aberrations in Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Structure, Function, and Expression: Implications in Disease
Authors: Salamone Frank , Zhou Ming
Published: February 2021

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Book Review: William Osler - An Indefatigable Spirit
Authors: Prescott Steven
Published: February 2021

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How to Test a Medical Technology for Space: Trauma Sonography in Microgravity
Authors: Melton Shannon , Beck George , Hamilton Douglas , Chun Rosa , Sargsyan Ashot , Kirkpatrick Andrew
Published: February 2021

Preventable trauma deaths in remote environments often result from inadequate diagnosis of thoracic and abdominal injuries. Full-time habitation of the International Space Station increases the risk of traumatic injury requiring intervention. This publication describes the evaluation of trauma sonography (TS) as a noninvasive, fast and effective space-based imaging tool for diagnosing intracavity hemorrhage or visceral leakage. The NASA Space Medicine Clinical Care Capability Development Project is using a four-phase approach: 1) identify terrestrial techniques for human diagnosis through literature or ground studies; 2) develop and test a model at 1-g if microgravity evaluations are required; 3) evaluate the model in microgravity (parabolic or shuttle flight); 4) implement the technology or technique for clinical use aboard the shuttle or space station. The Phase I literature review confirmed TS as the screening tool of choice for blunt trauma in most North American hospitals. In Phase II, an animal model was developed and tested for 1-g ground studies in which either fluid or air was injected into specific anatomical sites. Trained sonographers, using standard ultrasound techniques, successfully detected the fluid and air. The animal model was then prepared for the NASA KC-135 Microgravity Laboratory (Phase III). Injection and examination procedures were synchronized to the pull-in, 0-g and pull-out segments of the parabolic flight manoeuvres. Preliminary results indicate that trauma sonography is a clinically useful tool in microgravity. Phase IV efforts will address training, procedures, hardware, and data transfer requirements necessary to implement this technique for space.
Keeping Perspective
Authors: Prescott Steven
Published: February 2021

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Book Review: Pragmatic Bioethics
Authors: Viens Adrian
Published: February 2021

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The 'Book of Life': A Gold Mine?
Authors: Zhai Alexander B.
Published: February 2021

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A Comparison of Control Populations in Quebec Using the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment
Authors: Lomita Craig
Published: February 2021

The Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA) questionnaire is a health status instrument validated in the United States for use with patients with musculoskeletal impairments. It allows patients to self-rate their level of disability and impairment. This questionnaire has never been validated for Canada's English and French speaking populations. The first objective of this study was to determine the baseline responses of a healthy (i.e., without orthopaedic pathology) population representative of English and French speaking Canadians. The second objective was to compare the results of the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment to see if language or gender had any significant effect on the responses. A sample population (n=144) of Quebec Francophone and Anglophone subjects was interviewed using the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire over the course of five weeks. All subjects were obtained from the orthopaedic clinic of the Montreal General Hospital in Montreal, Quebec. All subjects were self-reported as not being orthopaedic patients themselves in the past or present, and were merely accompanying patients of the clinic. Results were analyzed for differences between four groups using the ANOVA statistical test: Francophone females, Francophone males, Anglophone females, and Anglophone males. No statistically significant differences were detected between the four groups. Results were also analyzed for any differences between three age groups using the ANOVA statistical test, (15-35 years, 36-55 years, and 56 and greater years), with no significant differences detected. The overall Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment values obtained for the four patient populations were: Francophone males = 5.41; Francophone females = 5.40; Anglophone males = 6.41; and Anglophone females males = 5.33. For the three age groups, the results were: 15 - 35 years = 6.87; 36 - 55 years = 5.22; 56 years and greater = 5.18. These results provide an initial baseline to which future orthopaedic patients can be compared, and suggest that analysis of the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment results may be compared across gender and language lines within Canada.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 and Inherited Predisposition to Breast and Ovarian Cancers
Authors: Tonin Patricia N.
Published: February 2021

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The Other Side of Medicine
Authors: Zhang Sophie
Published: February 2021

I was hesitant at first to join the Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) volunteer group here at McGill. I thought that I would be committing myself to an organisation whose humanitarian actions were solely medical-related and never crossed over to topics of injustice and human rights violations, which as many people do not realise is just as crucial, if not more, than needles and bandages. It is an honourable thing to save lives, but it is a crime to do it with indifference. With aspirations of becoming a doctor myself, I was not ready to promote healing with a mouth shut.
Luckily, I soon found out that in addition to providing medical assistance, MSF's main missions are to raise awareness by speaking out, either in private or in public, as witnesses of the plights suffered by populations around the world. As the world's most important independent medical relief organisation, MSF provides assistance in more than 85 countries, in the wake of armed conflicts, civil war, epidemics, chronic refugees situations, natural disasters and famines, while launching awareness campaigns and publicly denouncing acts that violate humanitarian laws. In fact, it is one of the first non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to have combined medicine with activism. Another important feature is its complete independence from all political, religious and economic influences.
Comparison of Christensen Prosthesis System with Autogenous Costochondral Graft for Arthroplasty of Traumatic Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
Authors: Omrani Aria
Published: February 2021

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Wilder Penfield and the Montreal Neurological Institute: Heralding the Modern Age of Neurology and Neurosurgery
Authors: Henri-Bhargava Alexandre
Published: February 2021

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Vagal Tone Biofeedback: Respiratory and Non-respiratory Mediated Modulations of Vagal tone Challenged by Cold Pressor Test
Authors: Glenn Dorey , Ditto Blaine
Published: February 2021

Deficient parasympathetic activity to the heart has been hypothesized to underlie some forms of cardiovascular disease. Consequently, this experiment attempted to induce non- respiratory mediated increases in cardiac parasympathetic activity. Thirty-nine subjects were asked to increase their vagal tone using biofeedback, paced breathing, biofeedback plus paced breathing, or quiet sitting. The cold pressor test was used to examine the relative efficacy of vagal tone increase to mitigate cardiovascular reactivity. Repeated measures ANOVAs and t-tests revealed significant increases in vagal tone for the paced breathing, and biofeedback plus paced breathing groups, relative to controls. However, the quality of these increases could not be tested using the cold pressor test because the test failed to produce homogeneous cardiac reactivity.
Would the Public Support a Ban on Smoking in Public Places? - A Survey of Local Opinion in the North East of England
Authors: Ahmed Sadia , Aujayeb Avinash , Cowens Emma , Evans Adam , Gent Felicity , Adams Jean , Heywood Peter , White Martin
Published: February 2021

The purpose of study is to determine the degree of support for a general ban on smoking in public places and bans on smoking in specific locations amongst adults living in the North East of England. To assess the variation in support for smoking bans by smoking status and socio-demographic factors. Procedures: After appropriate training, ten medical students conducted interviews with members of the public in city centre locations. Interviewers adhered to a structured schedule and all participants gave informed consent. Quota sampling techniques were used to obtain a sample representative of the wider population in terms of age, gender and occupational social class. Main findings: Interviews were conducted with 538 individuals of whom 338 (63%) stated that they would support a general ban on smoking in public places. Support for a ban varied by smoking status and social class but not by gender or age group. Of the specific locations mentioned, support was greatest for smoking bans in restaurants and cafes (83%), shopping malls (72%) and workplaces (72%) and lowest for smoking bans in pubs and clubs (37%), the home (27%) and outdoor public places (23%). Conclusions: Local support for bans on smoking in public places in the North East of England is high - particularly in relation to bans in restaurants and cafes, shopping malls and workplaces. Introduction and enforcement of smoking bans in these locations would not be expected to meet with great opposition and may have a positive influence on public health.
To Warn or Not to Warn? Genetic Information, Families, and Physician Liability
Authors: Gold Jennifer L
Published: February 2021

Genetic testing raises a number of legal issues. Physicians providing genetic testing may be faced with questions related to privacy, confidentiality, and the duty to warn. Because genetic information is by its very nature familial, genetic test results may have implications for others not privy to the particular physician-patient relationship. This can result in a legal and ethical quandary for the treating physician. This paper addresses questions with respect to genetic testing and the legal obligations of physicians. First, can a physician legally breach doctor-patient confidentiality to inform a family member of a genetic risk? Second, does the physician have a duty to warn the interested third party of that risk? And if the physician fails to warn that party, could s/he be found liable? These questions are addressed here in a comparative fashion, examining Canadian (and, where appropriate, American) common law as well as Quebec civil law. The paper concludes that physicians should be liable for the duty to warn in the context of genetic information only when the risk is serious, imminent, and avoidable.
Morality of Having Children with Disabilities
Authors: Zhang Sophie
Published: February 2021

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Night of Day
Authors: Leong Aaron
Published: February 2021

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Abortion in Medical School Curricula
Authors: Koyama Atsuko , Williams Robin
Published: February 2021

Studies show that in a group of five women- your mother, sister, aunt, daughter, girlfriend- two of them will have an abortion by age forty-four (1). Although this statistic varies by several factors including race and marital status, abortion is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in the United States and Canada (1, 2). Abortion is a safe, legal and common procedure, yet it is not routinely taught in medical schools (3, 4). In fact, there are no requirements that abortion be included in medical school curricula (5). Because it is so common, it is important for medical students to learn about abortion- the technical aspects of the different types of procedures, as well as the social, global and public health issues involved in abortion provision. Regardless of an individual physician's personal beliefs about abortion, every physician has a responsibility to help patients achieve optimal mental and physical health, to inform patients of their reproductive health options, and to serve as patient advocates. Only through comprehensive education and training will future physicians be able to meet the reproductive health needs of women.
Management and Leadership Development Programs for the Medical Community at McGill University
Authors: Moore Karl , Patel Hema , Razack Saleem , Snell Linda , Taylor Laurel
Published: February 2021

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Comparison of health related quality of life and health related outcomes among male patients with spinal cord injury with indwelling vs intermittent bladder catheterization - A pilot study
Authors: Abidfaheem TK  , Leena KC
Published: February 2021

The majority of people with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) have abnormalities in bladder function. It is important for an individual with SCI to understand the merits and demerits of different methods of bladder management. The purpose of the study is to compare the health related quality of life (QOL) and health related outcomes among male patients with SCI on indwelling and intermittent bladder catheterisation. A descriptive comparative study was conducted from June to December 2019 among patients with SCI residing in Calicut District, India. Demographic and clinical data were collected using a structured interview schedule. Quality of life was assessed by Qualiveen -30. Urine culture and Numerical pain scale were used to assess Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) and pain, respectively. The mean Qualiveen 30 score was higher among individuals with indwelling catheterisation 2.426 ± 0.52 than in individuals with intermittent catheterisation 1.746 ± 0.39, which is significant (p =0.0001) and patients with intermittent catheterisation showed better QOL. Mean pain after catheterisation was 5.07 ± 1.44 among persons with indwelling catheterisation while 4.70 ± 1.41 in intermittent catheterisation, which is not significant (p=0.13). The people with indwelling catheterisation are 5.5 times likely to develop UTI than people with intermittent catheterisation (OR 5.5, 95% CI 1.15-26.41). The better QOL and less UTI are demonstrated in patients using intermittent catheterisation over indwelling catheterisation. There is no remarkable difference of pain during catheterisation in both groups. Intermittent catheterisation can be preferred over indwelling catheterisation among persons with SCI.
Standardization of vestibular stimulation through rocking chair in elderly population
Authors: Archana R  , Sahayarani  , Vijayaraghavan R
Published: February 2021

The present study was undertaken to standardize the vestibular stimulation applied through the usage of the rocking chair in elderly population. A total of 50 elderly male and female participants were part of the study after obtaining the written informed consent. Rocking chair used for the application of vestibular stimulation was specially designed for the study. The rocking chair specifically designed for this study was equipped with four different frequencies that is 15 cycles/ min, 30 cycles/min, 45 cycles/min and 60 cycles/min. As the selection of ideal speed is subjective, the participants were subjected to all the speeds. The speed was adjusted as per their comfort level and was scored on a likert scale. Other physiological parameters, like pulse rate and blood pressure, were measured. Pulse rate and blood pressure was decreased and remained within normal limits in step-2 in both male and female participants. Majority of the participants reported that they were comfortable in step-2 that is the frequency of 30 cycles/min and duration of 30 minutes. The study standardized the frequency and duration of vestibular stimulation through the rocking chair in the elderly for the first time. Further, detailed studies are recommended to support the beneficial effects of rocking at this particular frequency in the elderly population.
Japan’s Exports of Creative Goods: Current Challenges and State Policy
Authors: Paksiutov G. D.
Published: February 2021

For the last two or three decades, concepts such as ‘creative industries’ and ‘creative economy’ have become widely recognized and influential in both academic literature and business practice. Creative industries are believed to be a key engine of economic growth in the current era. In Japan, development of the nation’s creative industries is an essential priority of the state, and various measures aimed at achieving this goal have been implemented, which are often collectively referred to as ‘Cool Japan’ strategy. It is assumed that cultural and creative industries present Japan with a possibility to revitalize the national economy after the long period of unsatisfactory performance known as ‘the Lost Decade’ and to strengthen the country’s position on the global political arena. There are numerous academic studies dedicated to the analysis of ‘Cool Japan’ strategy and the accession of Japan’s creative industries’ performance. The authors of these studies, who are often sceptical of ‘Cool Japan’ strategy, highlight several factors hindering Japanese creative exports, such as insufficient international marketing efforts and underdeveloped international distribution networks. Furthermore, it is asserted that Japanese creative exports are restricted by the Japanese content producers’ hesitation to switch to digital technologies and by their focus on catering to the domestic market (‘Galapagos syndrome’). Collaboration between Japanese animation producers and Netflix is a notable exception. National creative industries policy could play an important role in overcoming of all challenges mentioned above.
The Regional Role of the Eurasian Development Bank in the Post-Coronavirus World
Authors: Kuznetsov A. V.
Published: February 2021

Until now, the processes of global regionalisation have not been adequately reflected in the formation of systemic approaches to the management of financial relations within the Eurasian Economic Union. It leads to the search for new financial policy mechanisms necessary to stimulate the economies of the EAEU countries in the context of emerging economic and geopolitical constraints, as well as the creation of the necessary prerequisites for industrial cooperation in the context of anti-Russian sanctions and de-globalisation trends intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the vulnerability of the economies of the EAEU member states is due to their extreme dependence on external extra-regional demand, international capital and technology markets, as well as international settlement and payment systems based on the US dollar. The study is based on a dialectical approach. In conducting the research, we used general scientific methods of analysis, synthesis, generalisation, as well as methods of systemic, historical-logical and comparative analysis. The contradictory nature of the development of the world economy at the present stage was revealed. The role of the EDB in creating conditions for sustainable development of the EAEU member states has been substantiated. Changes in the structure of the EDB’s investment portfolio were analysed. The advantages and disadvantages of the EDB’s current activities in the context of the implementation of the Bank’s Strategy for 2018–2020 were summarised. Comparative characteristics of financing of EDB member countries through multilateral development banks were presented. The impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic on the current and future activities of the EDB was shown.