bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-comparison of cloud liquid water path derived from observations by two space-borne and one ground-based instrument in northern Europe
Authors: Kostsov Vladimir S. , Kniffka Anke , Stengel Martin , Ionov Dmitry V.
Published: November 2019

Abstract. Cloud liquid water path (LWP) is one of the target
atmospheric parameters retrieved remotely from ground-based and space-borne
platforms using different observation methods and processing algorithms.
Validation of LWP retrievals is a complicated task since a cloud cover is
characterised by strong temporal and spatial variability while remote
sensing methods have different temporal and spatial resolutions. An attempt
has been made to compare and analyse the collocated LWP data delivered by
two satellite instruments SEVIRI and AVHRR together with the data derived
from microwave observations by the ground-based radiometer RPG-HATPRO.
The geographical region of interest is the vicinity of St. Petersburg,
Russia, where the RPG-HATPRO radiometer is operating. The study is
focused on two problems. The first one is the so-called scale difference
problem, which originates from dissimilar spatial resolutions of
measurements. The second problem refers to the land–sea LWP gradient. The
radiometric site is located 2.5 km from the coastline where the effects of
the LWP gradient are pronounced. A good agreement of data obtained at the
microwave radiometer location by all three instruments (HATPRO, SEVIRI, and
AVHRR) during warm and cold seasons is demonstrated (the largest correlation
coefficient 0.93 was detected for HATPRO and AVHRR datasets). The analysis
showed no bias of the SEVIRI results with respect to HATPRO data and a large
positive bias (0.013–0.017 kg m−2) of the AVHRR results for both
warm and cold seasons. The analysis of LWP maps plotted on the basis of the
SEVIRI and AVHRR measurements over land and water surfaces in the vicinity
of St. Petersburg revealed the unexpectedly high LWP values delivered by
AVHRR during the cold season over the Neva River bay and over the Saimaa Lake
and the abnormal land–sea LWP gradient in these areas. For the detailed
evaluation of atmospheric state and ice cover in the considered geographical
regions during the periods of ground-based and satellite measurements,
reanalysis data were used. It is shown that the most probable reason for the
observed artefacts in the AVHRR measurements over water and ice surfaces is the
coarse resolution of the land–sea and snow–ice masks used by the AVHRR
retrieval algorithm. The influence of a cloud field inhomogeneity on the
agreement between the satellite and the ground-based data is studied. For
this purpose, the simple estimate of the LWP temporal variability is used as
a measure of the spatial inhomogeneity. It has been demonstrated that both
instruments are equally sensitive to the inhomogeneity of a cloud field
despite the fact that they have different spatial resolutions.
OpenArray v1.0: a simple operator library for the decoupling of ocean modeling and parallel computing
Authors: Huang Xiaomeng , Huang Xing , Wang Dong , Wu Qi , Li Yi , Zhang Shixun , Chen Yuwen , Wang Mingqing , Gao Yuan , Tang Qiang , Chen Yue , Fang Zheng , Song Zhenya , Yang Guangwen
Published: November 2019

Abstract. Rapidly evolving computational techniques are making a large gap between
scientific aspiration and code implementation in climate modeling. In this
work, we design a simple computing library to bridge the gap and decouple
the work of ocean modeling from parallel computing. This library provides
12 basic operators that feature user-friendly interfaces, effective
programming, and implicit parallelism. Several state-of-the-art computing
techniques, including computing graph and just-in-time compiling, are
employed to parallelize the seemingly serial code and speed up the ocean
models. These operator interfaces are designed using native Fortran
programming language to smooth the learning curve. We further implement a
highly readable and efficient ocean model that contains only 1860 lines of
code but achieves a 91 % parallel efficiency in strong scaling and 99 %
parallel efficiency in weak scaling with 4096 Intel CPU cores. This ocean
model also exhibits excellent scalability on the heterogeneous Sunway
TaihuLight supercomputer. This work presents a promising alternative tool
for the development of ocean models.
Local Fractions – a method for the calculation of local source
contributions to air pollution, illustrated by examples using the
EMEP MSC-W model (rv4_33)
Authors: Wind Peter , Rolstad Denby Bruce , Gauss Michael
Published: November 2019

Abstract. We present a computationally inexpensive method for individually quantifying the contributions from different sources to local air pollution. It can explicitly distinguish between regional/background and local/urban air pollution, allowing fully consistent downscaling schemes. The method can be implemented in existing Eulerian chemical transport models and can be used to distinguish a large number of emission sources to air pollution in every receptor grid cell within one single model simulation and thus to provide detailed maps of the origin of the pollutants. Hence it can be used for time-critical operational services providing scientific information as input to local policy decisions on air pollution abatement. The main limitation in its current version is that only primary pollutants can be addressed. In this paper we provide a technical description of the method and discuss various applications for scientific and policy purposes.
Induced seismicity risk analysis of the hydraulic stimulation of a geothermal well on Geldinganes, Iceland
Authors: Broccardo Marco , Mignan Arnaud , Grigoli Francesco , Karvounis Dimitrios , Rinaldi Antonio Pio , Danciu Laurentiu , Hofmann Hannes , Milkereit Claus , Dahm Torsten , Zimmermann Günter , Hjörleifsdóttir Vala , Wiemer Stefan
Published: November 2019

Abstract. The rapid increase in energy demand in the city of Reykjavik has posed the need for an additional supply of hot water from deep geothermal energy. The deep hydraulic (re-)stimulation of well RV-43 on the peninsula of Geldinganes (north of Reykjavik) is an essential component of the plan implemented by Reykjavik Energy to meet this energy target. Hydraulic stimulation is often associated with fluid-induced seismicity, most of which is not felt on the surface, but which, in rare cases, can cause nuisance to the population and even damage to the nearby building stock. This study presents a first of its kind pre-drilling probabilistic induced-seismic hazard and risk analysis for the site of interest. Specifically, we provide probabilistic estimates of peak ground acceleration, European microseismicity intensity, probability of light damage (damage risk), and individual risk. The results of the risk assessment indicate that the individual risk within a radius of 2 km around the injection point is below 0.1 micromorts, and damage risk is below 10−2, for the total duration of the project. However, these results are affected by several orders of magnitude of variability due to the deep uncertainties present at all levels of the analysis, indicating a critical need in updating this a-priory risk assessment with in-situ data collected during the stimulation.
Changes in the composition of marine and sea-ice diatoms derived from sedimentary ancient DNA of the eastern Fram Strait over the past 30,000 years
Authors: Zimmermann Heike H. , Stoof-Leichsenring Kathleen R. , Kruse Stefan , Müller Juliane , Stein Rüdiger , Tiedemann Ralf , Herzschuh Ullrike
Published: November 2019

Abstract. The Fram Strait is an area with a relatively low and irregular distribution of diatom microfossils in surface sediments, and thus microfossil records are underrepresented, rarely exceed the Holocene and contain sparse information about past diversity and taxonomic composition. These attributes make the Fram Strait an ideal study site to test the utility of sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) metabarcoding. By amplifying a short, partial rbcL marker, 95.7 % of our sequences are assigned to diatoms across 18 different families with 38.6 % of them being resolved to species and 25.8 % to genus level. Independent replicates show high similarity of PCR products, especially in the oldest samples. Diatom richness is highest in the Late Weichselian and lowest in Mid- and Late-Holocene samples. Taxonomic composition is dominated by cold-water and sea-ice associated diatoms and shows two re-organizations – one after the Last Glacial Maximum and another after the Younger Dryas. Different sequences assigned, amongst others, to Chaetoceros socialis indicate the detectability of intra-specific diversity using sedaDNA. We detect no clear pattern between our diatom sedaDNA record and the previously published IP25 record of this core, although proportions of pennate diatoms increase with higher IP25 concentrations and proportions of Nitzschia cf. frigida exceeding 2 % of the assemblage point towards past sea-ice presence.
The variation and visualisation of elastic anisotropy in rock forming minerals
Authors: Healy David , Timms Nicholas E. , Pearce Mark A.
Published: November 2019

Abstract. All minerals behave elastically, a rheological property that controls their ability to support stress, strain and pressure, the nature of acoustic wave propagation and influences subsequent plastic (i.e. permanent, non-reversible) deformation. All minerals are intrinsically anisotropic in their elastic properties – that is, they have directional variations that are related to the configuration of the crystal lattice. This means that the commonly used mechanical elastic properties that relate elastic stress to elastic strain, including Young's modulus (E), Poisson's ratio (ν), shear modulus (G) and linear compressibility (β), are dependent on crystallographic direction. In this paper, we explore the ranges of anisotropy of E, ν, G and β in 86 rock-forming minerals, using previously published data, and show that the range is much wider than commonly assumed. We also explore how these variations (the directionality and the magnitude) are important for fundamental processes in the solid earth, including deformation (mechanical) twinning, coherent phase transformations and brittle failure. We present a new open source software package (AnisoVis, written in MATLAB), which we use to calculate and visualise directional variations in elastic properties of rock-forming minerals. Following previous work in the fields of chemistry and materials, we demonstrate that by visualising the variations in elasticity, we discover previously unreported properties of rock forming minerals. For example, we show previously unreported directions of negative Poisson's ratio and negative linear compressibility and we show that the existence of these features is more widespread (i.e. present in many more minerals) than previously thought. We illustrate the consequences of intrinsic elastic anisotropy for the elastic normal and shear strains within α-quartz single crystal under different applied stress fields; the role of elastic anisotropy on Dauphiné twinning and the α-β phase transformations in quartz; and stress distributions around voids of different shapes in talc, lizardite, albite, and sanidine. In addition to our specific examples, elastic anisotropy in rock-forming minerals to the degree that we describe has significant consequences for seismic (acoustic) anisotropy, the focal mechanisms of earthquakes in anisotropic source regions (e.g. subducting slabs), for a range of brittle and ductile deformation mechanisms in minerals, and geobarometry using mineral inclusions.
Credits & Content
Authors: IJMS Executive Board of
Published: November 2019

N/A
Effect of an Educational Booklet on Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Major Depressive Disorder in Medical Students in Delhi
Authors: Goyal Medha , Kohli Charu , Kishore Jugal , Jiloha Ram C.
Published: November 2019

Background: Depression is one of the most common mental disorders affecting people in the world. It is also a growing concern in younger population particularly medical students. There are many pharmaceutical interventions for treatment of depression but there is paucity of data to determine the effect of educational intervention on the knowledge, attitude and help seeking behaviour regarding depression among medical students. Methods: An interventional study was carried out among randomly selected 100 medical students except interns over a period of 6 months from March-August 2011 in a medical college in Delhi to assess the effect of educational booklet on knowledge and attitude about depression. Data was collected using pre-tested questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 16 software. Statistical significance in pre and post intervention proportions was determined using Mc Nemar test (MN) and for other proportions Chi-square test.Results: The study shown that only 71% of subjects knew that depression is a disease in pre intervention phase, which rose to 88% in post intervention phase (p=0.01). Knowledge of symptoms and treatment significantly improved such as trouble falling asleep or too much sleep (p=0.03), feeling tired or decreased energy (MN=17.6, p=0.01), feeling bad about self (MN=21.8, p=0.01), speaking slowly other can notice (MN=19.1, p=0.01) and can be treated by improving awareness (MN=8.6, p=0.03), and anti-depressants do not cause much of side effects (MN=17.3, p=0.01). Most common reasons for not seeking help were thinking that there is lack of understanding by other people about the depression (63%), lack of confidentiality (49%), social stigma (30%), fear of rejection (26%) and time constraints (6%). Majority of students accepted the booklet for their understanding about depression where 63% considered that it improved their knowledge to great extent. Conclusions: Educational interventional booklet should be promoted at bigger level to help students to identify and understand the depression which may improve health seeking behavior and could decrease their suffering if they fall sick.
“How Can I Help You?”: Perspectives from a Patient with a Hearing Loss
Authors: Kolb Rachel
Published: November 2019

N/A
Bibliometric Studies in CIMEL: A Latin-American Medical Student Journal and the Future of Bibliometric Publications
Authors: Bonilla-Escobar Francisco J. , Rojas-Mírquez Johanna C. , Mondragón-Cardona Alvaro , Bonilla-Velez Juliana
Published: November 2019

Background: Bibliometric or scientometric studies are methodological fields focused on the structural analysis of the information contai­ned in scientific publication and generate indicators that help identify challenges and achievements in research. We aimed to characterize the publications that used this method authored by medical students in Latin America. Methods: We reviewed articles that performed a bibliometric analysis and were published in a Latin American medical student journal, between 2001 and 2012. We analyzed the characte­ristics of the articles, authors and references. Linear simple regression and Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) were developed to identify trends and correlations with 95% confidence. Results: There were 12 volumes of the journal available online, with a total of 236 articles. Of these, 13 (5.5%) were bibliometric studies: five original articles, four letters to the editor, two editorials, one short communication, and one review. There was a positive significant relationship between time (years) and number of publications (ß1=0.16, p=0.03, PCC=63%), and citations of each article (not significant, ß1=1.3, p=0.09, PCC=49%). Conclusion: There was an increase in the number of bibliometric publications after 2008, possibly influenced by a popularization of these types of studies in Latin America. Findings should motivate new and collaborative studies in this field. Moreover, it will be necessary to clarify publication areas of interest of medical students around the world.
From Physics Olympiads to Medical Research: Lessons Learned
Authors: Zorrilla-Vaca Andres
Published: November 2019

N/A
Recommendations for Future Articles on Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices in IJMS
Authors: Torres-Vallejo Yenny , Ruiz-Galeano Carlos A. , Bonilla-Escobar Francisco J.
Published: November 2019

N/A
Cerebellar Syndromes: A Medical Student Guide
Authors: Sellers Claudia K. , Pal Suvankar
Published: November 2019

The cerebellum is central to normal motor function and co-ordination, and can be frequently affected in a number of common disease processes. However, medical student teaching relating to cerebellar anatomy and pathology is lacking, leaving many graduates with a significant knowledge gap. Junior doctors need to be able to recognize ‘cerebellar syndromes’ on presentation to hospitals, and to identify and manage reversible causes rapidly and effectively. After review of relevant literature, a simple approach to the functional anatomy and practical classifications of common cerebellar pathology is presented here, with a focus on symptoms, signs and examination techniques essential to medical school final exams.
The Silent Suffering of Jane Doe: Negligence of Mental Health Problems in Daily Practice
Authors: Kremling Julius
Published: November 2019

NA
Cross-Cultural Training: The Importance of Volunteering Abroad in Medical School
Authors: Ravishankar Nidhi
Published: November 2019

NA
Enhancing the Student Surgical Learning Experience
Authors: Gouda Pishoy , Bakhet Marize
Published: November 2019

NA
Massive Open Online Courses and Medical Education
Authors: Aboshady Omar , Aboshady Omar
Published: November 2019

NA
Tobacco Usage among Males in Rural Tamil Nadu, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Annadurai Kalaivani , Mani Geetha , Dhanasekaran Raja
Published: November 2019

Background: Knowing the prevalence of tobacco use and the socio-demographic profile of users might prove useful in further strengthening the information, education, communication and regulatory activities, thereby decreasing tobacco use. The objective was to study the prevalence and pattern of tobacco use among men aged 18 years and above in rural area of Tamil Nadu. Methods: A cross sectional study was performed among 714 males aged 18 years and above in Vadagarai village of Tamil Nadu during 2010 and interviewed with a pretested questionnaire. Systematic random sampling was used to select the participants. Results: Prevalence of smoking was found to be 36.7%. Cigarette smoking was more common than beedi and smokeless tobacco. Conclusion: Strict enforcement of anti-tobacco legislation and awareness measures targeting ill-effects of tobacco can be intensified to reduce tobacco related morbidity and mortality.
Awareness and Practices of Non-Pharmacological Approaches for Management of Hypertension in a Geriatric Population
Authors: Sahoo Debalina , Gosai Harshida , Sahoo Ujjwal , Harsoda J.M.
Published: November 2019

Background: There is an increase in the prevalence of hypertension all over the world, including India. Hypertension can be initially managed with non-pharmacological measures. This study aims to assess the knowledge of non-pharmacological measures to control hypertension and its application in a geriatric hypertensive population. Methods: The study was conducted at the Department of Physiology, SVU, Vadodara, India. A total 110 hypertensive patients were included in the study and a non-validated survey was conducted to examine knowledge of non-pharmacological measures to control hypertension in this group of patients. Frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations were calculated and reported. Results: Only 10% of the respondents knew the normal values for blood pressure. Approximately 38% of the subjects did not measure their blood pressure regularly. A total of 24% subjects knew that body weight has a correlation with hypertension. About 27% said that there was no correlation between salt intake and hypertension, and 88% of the study population did not carry out any form of physical activity. Conclusion: Hypertension can be controlled by life style modifications such as exercise, weight management and a healthy diet. Public health and education measures targeting hypertensive population need to be taken to decrease the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and, therefore, improve people's health and quality of life.
Alzheimer’s Disease: Current and Future Treatments. A Review
Authors: Chou Evelyn
Published: November 2019

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a currently incurable neurodegenerative disorder whose treatment poses a big challenge. Proposed causes of AD include the cholinergic, amyloid and tau hypotheses. Current therapeutic treatments have been aimed at dealing with the neurotransmitter imbalance. These include cholinesterase inhibitors and N-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists. However, current therapeutics have been unable to halt AD progression. Much research has gone into the development of disease-modifying drugs to interfere with the course of the disease. Approaches include secretase inhibition and immunotherapy aimed at reducing plaque deposition. However, these have not been successful in curing AD as yet. It is believed that the main reason why therapeutics have failed to work is that treatment begins too late in the course of the disease. The future of AD treatment thus appears to lie with prevention rather than cure. In this article, current therapeutics and, from there, the future of AD treatment are discussed.
Management of Vaccination Failure in a Case of HIV -HBV Co-infection: A Case Report
Authors: Small Andre , Schroeder Hilary , Maramraj Raghu , Joanes Marianinha
Published: November 2019

Background: A 60-year-old African American female patient, with chronic HIV infection since 1999, presented with markers of acute hepatities B virus (HBV) infection for the past 15 months. The patient was previously vaccinated for HBV. Immunoglobulin dysfunction was hypothesized, but electrophoresis yielded no conclusive result. Results: Investigation suggests that the patient is a non-responder: someone who fails to sero-convert to standard vaccinations. This condition can be linked to B-cell dysfunction due to chronic HIV infection. Conclusion: It is suggested that non-responders may require a 6-dose regimen to achieve sero-conversion for vaccination. Prevention of co-infection should be the mainstay of treatment, which is achieved by vaccination. However, immune system dysfunction can lead to complications.
Medical Students’ Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Female Sex Workers and Their Occupational Risk Factors
Authors: T. Nakagawa Jenna , Akpinar-Elci. Muge
Published: November 2019

Background: The tendency for female sex workers to seek health care is highly influenced by physician attitudes and behavior. By identifying medical students' attitudes toward female sex workers and assessing their knowledge of barriers to seeking care, we can focus medical training and advocacy efforts to increase access to care and improve public health outcomes. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, medical students from various countries were invited to participate in an online survey with close-ended questions and Likert scale statements. Responses were quantified and knowledge and attitude scores were assigned based on knowledge of barriers to seeking care and agreement with positive and negative attitude statements. Results: A total of 292 medical students from 56 countries completed the survey, of whom 98.3% agreed that it will be their job to provide treatment to patients regardless of occupation. Self-identified religious students conveyed more negative attitudes toward female sex workers compared to those who did not identify themselves as religious (p<0.001). Students intending to practice in countries where prostitution is legal conveyed more positive attitudes compared to those intending to practice in countries where prostitution is illegal (p<0.001). Conclusion: Medical students largely agreed on the importance of providing care to female sex workers as a vulnerable group. In addition to addressing knowledge gaps in medical education, more localized studies are needed to understand the religious and legal influences on attitudes toward female sex workers. Such information can help focus the efforts in both medical education and communication training to achieve the desired behavioral impacts, reconciling the future generations of health care providers with the needs of female sex workers.
Hepatorenal Syndrome in the Emergency Department: A Case Report
Authors: Jim Tan Win , Tiruchittampalam Mohan
Published: November 2019

Background: Hepatorenal syndrome is a condition where there is functional renal failure in a background of liver disease. It is relatively common in patients with liver cirrhosis and is associated with a high mortality rate if untreated. Case: This is a case report of an 88-year-old Chinese man presenting from a community hospital with a new onset of abdominal distension on a background of cryptogenic liver cirrhosis diagnosed on computed tomography scan. Clinical history and physical findings were consistent with that of fluid overload. Investigations performed indicated acute kidney injury together with liver failure secondary to liver cirrhosis. The patient was diagnosed with hepatorenal syndrome in accordance with the criteria established by the International Ascites Club and managed with an infusion of vasopressin and albumin in the emergency department. He was subsequently admitted to the general ward (gastrology), where he was managed for hepatorenal syndrome, improved clinically and was discharged to the nursing home. Conclusion: Hepatorenal syndrome can be managed effectively with albumin and vasopressin, and such treatment can be started as early as in the emergency department. Acute care physicians should not be hesitant in diagnosing and treating hepatorenal syndrome as early as in the emergency department for appropriate patients.
The Meaning of “Do No Harm”: A Medical Student Perspective
Authors: DiSalvo Dale S.
Published: November 2019

NA
The Effects of Lead and Selenium on Melanoma Induction
Authors: Sá Isabel , Nogueira Tânia , Cunha Elisabete
Published: November 2019

Background: Melanoma is a malignant skin cancer and is one of the most aggressive malignancies in humans. Heavy metals, including lead, are known to cause cellular toxicity and have been studied for their potentials to induce apoptosis in tumor cells. Since selenium is considered to act protectively in cases of lead poisoning, this study focused on the effects of sodium selenite and lead chloride, both alone and combined, on melanoma cell apoptosis. Methods: This study was carried out by doing cell culture of melanoma cells (B16-F10 cell line) and using C57BL/6 mice. Melanoma cells suspended in lead (II) chloride, sodium selenite, or lead (II) chloride + sodium selenite solutions were injected subcutaneously to mice to induce tumor growth. After 12 days, tumors were excised and measured, followed by flow cytometry and a statistical analysis using a one-way ANOVA. Results: In the group of mice receiving a single injection of melanoma cells suspended in 10 μmol/l of lead (II) chloride, the growth of tumor was significantly slower than in the control group. In mice treated with lead (II) chloride 50 μmol/l and 100 μmol/l, no tumor was visible at the end of the experiment. With a single injection of lead (II) chloride and sodium selenite at concentrations ≥ 10 μmol/l, the weight and size of the tumor were substantially smaller than in the control group. Conclusion: The effect of lead (II) chloride on melanoma induction is dependent on the concentration of lead (II) chloride. Future applications may include the use of lead (II) chloride to increase apoptosis and necrosis in tumor cells and thus suppress tumor cells proliferation.
Mutation in Genes FBN1, AKT1, and LMNA: Marfan Syndrome, Proteus Syndrome, and Progeria Share Common Systemic Involvement
Authors: Biswas Tonmoy
Published: November 2019

Genetic mutations are becoming more deleterious day by day. Mutations of Genes named FBN1, AKT1, LMNA result specific protein malfunction that in turn commonly cause Marfan syndrome, Proteus syndrome, and Progeria, respectively. Articles about these conditions have been reviewed in PubMed and Google scholar with a view to finding relevant clinical features. Precise keywords have been used in search for systemic involvement of FBN1, AKT1, and LMNA gene mutations. It has been found that Marfan syndrome, Proteus syndrome, and Progeria commonly affected musculo-skeletal system, cardiovascular system, eye, and nervous system. Not only all of them shared identical systemic involvement, but also caused several very specific anomalies in various parts of the body. In spite of having some individual signs and symptoms, the mutual manifestations were worth mentioning. Moreover, all the features of the mutations of all three responsible genes had been co-related and systemically mentioned in this review. There can be some mutual properties of the genes FBN1, AKT1, and LMNA or in their corresponding proteins that result in the same presentations. This study may progress vision of knowledge regarding risk factors, patho-physiology, and management of these conditions, and relation to other mutations.
Elective Undergraduate Medical Research: A Medical Student Experience
Authors: X. Chong Zhi
Published: November 2019

NA
Attitudes and Perceptions among Dublin International Foundation College Students towards Taking Conventional Medications and Herbal Medicines
Authors: T. Eissa Abdullah
Published: November 2019

Background: The use of both conventional medications and herbal medicines has increased recently. Consequently, the chance of misusing medications has also increased, leading to unwanted complications and economic burdens. This study examined the attitudes and perceptions of international students at Dublin International Foundation College (DIFC) towards conventional medication and herbal medicine. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative method was used to collect information from international students at DIFC. A total of 85 questionnaires were distributed to the students, and 54 completed questionnaires were received from them. Chi-square test was used to examine the possible relationships between students’ background, gender and region of origin and their attitudes and perceptions toward using conventional medications and herbal medicines. Results: Participants from different regions of origin showed significant differences in the responses to questions about informing their healthcare providers about their drug allergies. While most students did not usually mix herbal medicines with either conventional medications or other types of herbs, students aged between 21 and 25 were more likely to combine different types of medications compared to students from other age groups. No significant differences were observed in relation to students' educational backgrounds and gender. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the need of educating students from different regions and backgrounds about the use of conventional medications and herbal medicines. Information regarding the proper use of medications and the dangers of drug interactions should be included in the curricula of formal education and disseminated to the public using culturally sensitive strategies.
An International Medical Graduate’s Experience of Postgraduate Training in the United States
Authors: J. Delgado-Hurtado Juan
Published: November 2019

NA
Ultrasonography as a Modern Teaching Support to the Anatomy Course: Is It Beneficial for Medical Students
Authors: Garnier Hanna , Plosaj Pawel , Wisniewski Jakub
Published: November 2019

NA
Near-peer Teaching in Histology Laboratory
Authors: Cambrón-Carmona María de los Ángeles , Tallón de Lara Carmen Natalia , Ruz Caracuel Ignacio , Leiva Cepas Fernando , González Rubén Giovanetti , Zurita Lozano Soledad , Cámara Pérez Juan , Casado Ruiz Julia , Peña José
Published: November 2019

Background: Near-peer teaching is an educational method based on being taught by one or more students who are more advanced in one specific area of the same curriculum. The aim of this study was to analyze outcomes and medical students’ reactions to near-peer teaching in Histology Laboratory session. Methods: Histology Laboratory session was firstly designed as a practical session driven by academic staff, while in our new approach was driven by Histology intern students, which are upper year students in Medicine curriculum. Our near-peer teaching was evaluated using a multiple choice test when half of students had attended the session, the results of which were compared with those from traditional teaching. A reaction evaluation survey was also administered at the end of the course. Results: Multiple choice test results did not showed statistical differences between near-peer and traditional teaching strategies. Results from the reaction evaluation were mostly positive, especially with regard to feeling comfortable in the session taught by intern students and how intern students managed to transmit the information properly. Conclusion: Near-peer teaching in Histology Laboratory practical session is an effective alternative teaching method, with outcomes equivalent to traditional design, and highly valued by undergraduate medical students
Stem Cell Repair for Cardiac Muscle Regeneration: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Farrugia Georgiana , Balzan Rena
Published: November 2019

The notion that the human adult heart is a quiescent organ incapable of self-regeneration has been successfully challenged. It is now evident that the heart possesses a significant ability for repair and regeneration. Stem cells of endogenous cardiac origin are currently considered to possess the greatest ability to differentiate into cardiomyocytes. The major types of cardiac stem cells that show a promising potential to replace damaged cardiomyocytes include C-KIT positive (C-KIT+) cardiac progenitor cells, cardiosphere-derived progenitor cells, islet-1 (Isl1+) cardiac progenitor cells, side-population cardiac progenitor cells, epicardium-derived progenitor cells and stem cell antigen-1 (SCA1+) cardiac progenitor cells. Moreover, stem cells of extra-cardiac origin are also thought to restore contractility and vascularization of the myocardium. These include skeletal myoblasts, bone marrow mononuclear cells, mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial progenitor cells as well as embryonic stem cells. The need for further investigation on cardiac stem cell therapeutic strategies still remains.
Establishing a Causal Link between Ankylosing Spondylitis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Rivington Jaclyn , Gillett Michael
Published: November 2019

The link between ankylosing spondylitis and inflammatory bowel disease is unclear, however it is hypothesized that there is a causal link between the inheritance of a human leukocyte antigen B27 allele and the development of inflammatory bowel disease symptoms in ankylosing spondylitis patients. Research articles assessing the relationship between ankylosing spondylitis, inflammatory bowel disease and the human leukocyte antigen B27 antigen were collected from the PubMed database. Patients expressing the human leukocyte antigen B27 allele have a demonstrated predisposition to developing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and sacroiliitis in ankylosing spondylitis. However, human leukocyte antigen B27 is considered to be just a contributing factor in the disease, as interleukin-23, natural killer cells, and alterations to the microbiome have also demonstrated an active role in the development of symptoms. More longitudinal studies using larger cohorts are needed to further substantiate a direct causal relationship between ankylosing spondylitis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Using Oral and Intranasal Dosage Forms of Ketamine for Managing Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Arthur Twohig Patrick , Huckfeldt Vaughn
Published: November 2019

A lack of effective treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) has led to the evaluation of ketamine, an N-methyl- D-aspartate receptor antagonist. Despite the demonstrated short-term benefits of using intravenous (IV) ketamine, side effects and the difficulty in administering ketamine outside the health-care setting has raised interest in alternative dosage forms. Research articles evaluating oral or intranasal (IN) ketamine were retrieved from the PubMed database. Patients who received oral or IN ketamine experienced a similar reduction in depressive symptoms within 24 hours of treatment and fewer side effects compared to patients who received IV ketamine. Novel administration forms of ketamine provide an opportunity for patients with TRD to achieve remission with fewer adverse side effects. Future studies should continue to evaluate these administration strategies in the hope of promoting ketamine’s use outside health-care settings and for longer time periods.
Autoimmune Lymphoproliferative Syndrome (ALPS): A Case Report
Authors: Mousa Yazan S.
Published: November 2019

Background: Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) is a rare disorder of the blood, estimated at around 500 cases worldwide. It is characterized by a dysregulation of T-cells in the immune system, and is caused by a defect in the process that mediates leukocyte apoptosis. This may result in an increased risk of lymphoma and autoimmune diseases. Case: The author reports a case of an 11-year-old male who had been followed up since three years of age for recurrent cytopenias, occurring with intermittent breakouts of purpuric rash, nosebleeds, and prolonged infections. Conclusion: A probable diagnosis was made through criteria based on the First International ALPS workshop of 2009. This includes the presence of circulating double-negative T cells, considered the laboratory marker unique for ALPS. The mainstay of treatment was prednisone, given at doses varying in proportion to the severity of immunocytopenia. osis.
Latin America: Should We Be Worried about Zika Virus
Authors: Ye Joselyn , Bedoya Marcelo
Published: November 2019

NA
A Systematic Review of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation Management
Authors: Eliahu Karen , Hofman Florence , Giannotta Steven
Published: November 2019

Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation is a neurovascular lesion characterized by an abnormal connection between arterial and venous systems, resulting in a tangle of blood vessels lacking intervening capillaries. The goal of treatment is to prevent catastrophic hemorrhage, neurological injury, or death. Despite the availability of multiple cutting-edge treatment options there is little consensus on the most promising approaches for treatment due to the novelty of each Arteriovenous Malformation case. This analysis will link the various angioarchitectural characteristics and associated presentations of Arteriovenous Malformation to treatment modalities. In the era of personalized medicine, genomics-driven research to normalize by drawing parallels between Cerebral Cavernous Malformation and Arteriovenous Malformation, both of which are characterized by hemorrhage-prone vascular malformations, may provide insight for the development of pharmacological therapy. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and genes responsible for the symptoms will allow us to better treat patients in a non-invasive manner and paves future directions in Arteriovenous Malformation treatment.
The Enduring Value of Research in Medical Education
Authors: Bonilla-Velez Juliana , Small Mariah , Urrutia Raul , Lomberk Gwen
Published: November 2019

Evidence-based medicine (EBM) relies on scientific data to guide diagnosis and treatment and is recognized as the current paradigm in medicine. Accordingly, every current and future physician should be knowledgeable about its principles and methodologies. Embracing research and EBM is essential to modern clinical practice; however, trainees and physicians still struggle with the value of research-related courses and knowledge on epidemiology and research methodology is often poor. In this article we provide a cogent discussion of the importance of research as an indispensable discipline in medical education through a detailed analysis of the literature. We review the evolution of medicine towards EBM and discuss the myriad of benefits that research has on medical careers, leadership roles, mentoring relationships, social networking, and personal growth and development. Participation in research contributes to medicine, public health, and society while simultaneously allowing the achievement of a high level of personal satisfaction
The Use of Activated Charcoal for Acute Poisonings
Authors: Bonilla-Velez Juliana , Bonilla-Velez Juliana , J Marin-Cuero Darly , J Marin-Cuero Darly
Published: November 2019

Poisoning results from the ingestion of or contact with harmful substances including overdose or incorrect use of any drug or medication. Decontamination measures prevent the absorption of the substance from the gastrointestinal tract to minimize systemic effects. Activated charcoal is the intervention most frequently used in the initial management of patients with acute intoxications. The use of activated charcoal has decreased over time, but there may be a subgroup of patients who would benefit from its use. In this review we describe the epidemiology of intoxications, the composition and pharmacology of activated charcoal, indications and dosing for use of single dose and multiple doses of charcoal, contraindications, complications and a summary for recommended use of this measure based on published studies.
Risk to Develop Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus according to FINDRISC tool in Guatemalan Physicians aged 40-60 years
Authors: Daniel Castro Estuardo , Alejandro Velásquez, Gamaliél , Lineker Santos Edgar , Adolfo Oliva Gustavo , Elizabeth Chang Clara , Francisco Soto Harry
Published: November 2019

Background: In Latin America 22.4 million people has abnormal tolerance to insulin, these ones could turn into diabetics if they do not change their lifestyles. Added to this, there are 15 million who present Diabetes Mellitus and this amount will increase to 20 million in 10 years. This epidemic behavior is caused by many factors in which stand out lifestyles, the population aging, and lack of prevention programs. Since 1994, physicians in Guatemala have demonstrated to have inadequate lifestyles in different researches, standing out sedentarism, overweight and obesity, and hypercaloric diets. Objective: To evaluate the risk of developing type 2 Diabetes Mellitus using the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) in Guatemalan doctors of three medical institutions in the months of June and July 2016. Methods: Cross-sectional study, where 176 doctors were interviewed using the FINDRISC. Participant’s body mass index and abdominal circumference were measured. Results: Mean age was 50 years, 63% (110) male; 55% (96) were sedentary, more than three quarters consumed fruits and vegetables daily, 22% (38) were hypertensive, 10% (17) had a history of impaired glucose and 61% family history of diabetes (108); 47% (82) were overweight and 31% (54) had some degree of obesity. Central obesity was present in 63% (111). There was a statistically significant relationship between age and risk of type 2 diabetes (OR: 3.4 p: 0.001) as well as a relationship between physical activity and abdominal circumference (OR: 2.84, p: 0.001). Out of the total population, 80% (141) of doctors were in some degree of risk, from these, 53% with slightly elevated, 29% moderate, 16% with high and 2% very high risk. Conclusions: Eight out of ten doctors studied were at risk of developing type 2 diabetes over a period of ten years. There is a relationship between: age and risk of disease, as well as between physical activity and abdominal circumference.
E-Da Hospital Summer Clerkship: My Path to Belize’s First M.D. Ph.D Neurosurgeon
Authors: Morgan Paul Marcel
Published: November 2019

N/A
Abstracts of the International Medical Students Congress Sarajevo - SaMED 2017
Authors: IJMS Executive Board of
Published: November 2019

N/A
Abstracts of the International Medical Students' Congress of Bucharest, IMSCB 2017
Authors: IJMS Executive Board of
Published: November 2019

N/A
From Bench to Bedside: Experiencing the Transition from Scientist to Medical Student
Authors: Ryan Paul MacDaragh
Published: November 2019

N/A
Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Diabetes in Medical Students: Observational Study, Experience in Colombia
Authors: Enriquez Diego Mauricio Bados , Oyola Karoll Vanessa Ladino , Ruiz Juan Esteban Yucuma
Published: November 2019

Background: Cardiovascular Disease is a leading cause of preventable death. Cardiovascular risk factors’ identification is the cornerstone for effective and early interventions decreasing the frequency of acute health-threatening events. Since adolescence and youth are very vulnerable stages to develop risky habits, we decided to run this study in the Multidisciplinary Universitary Camp for Research and Service.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed in the Multidisciplinary Universitary Camp for Research and Service in which 450 medical students from Colombia were assessed. After a probabilistic random simple sampling (n=50), we applied the World Health Organization test and Finnish Risk Score to calculate Cardiovascular and Diabetes Mellitus risk, respectively. We characterized the population by sociodemographic variables and anthropometric measurements.

Results: The study shows that from 18 participating universities (n=50), the mean age of the participants was 21.14 years (SD 7.3) of whom 40% were male and 60% were female. Overall, 92% have a low risk of cardiovascular disease, 6% are at moderate risk and 2% are at high risk. 92% have low risk of diabetes mellitus and 8% are at moderate risk of having diabetes mellitus in the long term.

Conclusion: The early identification of and intervention on risk factors could decrease significantly the onset of acute health-threatening cardiovascular pathologies. As medical students, adolescents and young adults are at risk of developing unhealthy habits which increase the incidence of cardiovascular disorders. The use of anthropometric measures and validated risk score scales is an appropriate way to get evidence for starting early interventions.
Amoxicillin Morbilliform Drug Eruption in Pediatric Male with Poor Feeding Treated with Cyproheptadine: A Case Report
Authors: Nguyen Daniel , Vo Christina
Published: November 2019

Background: Cyproheptadine (CY) is an antihistaminic agent that is commonly used for symptom relief in skin conditions. The most common pattern of cutaneous drug eruption in children is the exanthematous type, with the penicillin family often cited. CY is also an antiserotoninergic agent with the side effect of appetite stimulation and has been used in children with poor feeding and poor weight gain.

The Case: We report a case of a 31-month-old male patient seen in the outpatient setting with a diffuse morbilliform rash after use of amoxicillin for right otitis media. The patient was a post-operative congenital heart disease (CHD) patient, actively being treated with CY for feeding difficulties and low weight often seen in the CHD population. Amoxicillin was discontinued, while CY was continued. The patient did not encounter any pruritic symptoms during morbilliform rash, while weight gain of 3.1 kg occurred over a 9 months period, increasing patient from the 10th to 41st percentile.

Conclusion: A review of studies on CY has shown antiallergic properties in histamine-mediated hypersensitivity reactions, most likely through H1 receptor antagonism.  This mechanism may be used to address the pruritic symptoms during type IV T-cell mediated hypersensitivity cutaneous drug eruptions. CY also possesses 5-HT receptor antagonist properties with demonstrated ability to increase appetite in poor feeding pediatric patients. CY was successfully used for this purpose in our CHD patient.