bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationships between Cellular Toxicity, the Maximum Tolerated Dose, Lipophilicity and Electrophilicity
Authors: Rosenkranz Herbert S. , Matthews Edwin J. , Klopman Gilles
Published: August 2020

Results on cellular toxicity and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for rats and mice were available for approximately 175 chemicals tested by the US National Toxicology Program. Additionally, the computed log P (log octanol-water partition coefficient) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy values, a measure of electrophilicity were also available for most of these chemicals. Analysis of the chemicals on the basis of their physical and quantum chemical properties and their toxic effects on cultured cells and rodents showed that: 1) as a group, the more toxic chemicals showed a trend towards higher LUMO energies (i.e. less electrophilic); 2) cytotoxic chemicals exhibited increased lipophilicity; and 3) cytotoxic chemicals were associated with increased systemic toxicity (as measured by the MTD). None of these relationships was expressed in a significant linear fashion as a function of the concentration at which the chemicals exhibited cytotoxicity.
Protein Kinase C and Phagocytic Activity in Amitriptyline-exposed Primary Cultures of Glial Cells
Authors: Grundt Inger K. , Nyland Harald , Mørk S.
Published: August 2020

Factors which can have either an aggravating or a protective effect on glial cell activation, as found in the early stages of multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders, are not well known. Enzyme analyses and time-lapse video film were used to study the mechanisms underlying glial cell activation as induced by exposure to amitriptyline (AT). When the effects on the two enzymes protein kinase C (PKC) and 2'3’-cyclic nucleotide 3’-phosphodiesterase (CNP) were compared, PKC activity was increased by 49% and CNP activity was not affected. The addition of the essential fatty acids arachidonic acid (Ara) and alpha-linolenic acid (Lin), revealed that Lin alone activated PKC by 59%, and when Lin was co-exposed with AT, by 67%. The activation of astroglial and microglial cells and phagocytosis of oligodendroglial cells in an AT-exposed culture was recorded by video film. Further studies on AT-induced events in primary cultures of glial cells and the modulating effects of fatty acids, are in progress.
Application of the Ames Genotoxicity Assay and the Bioluminescent Toxicity Assay in the Testing of Urine Samples
Authors: Pruul Reet , Kahn Hubert , Kahru Anne
Published: August 2020

Urine samples from ski factory, shoe factory and kindergarten workers were analysed using the Ames genotoxicity assay and Biotox™ toxicity test (BioOrbit, Turku, Finland), to screen the occupational exposure of these people to mutagenic and toxic chemicals. Different strains of Salmonella typhimurium were used for the screening of different groups. The assay was performed without S9 mix, i.e. directly acting mutagens were tested. The ski factory workers were grouped according to their specific tasks (compressors and polishers). The urinary mutagenicity of compressors analysed using Salmonella strain TA98 was significantly higher than the urinary mutagenicity of polishers (p < 0.05, Student's t test). In the case of Salmonella strains YG1021 and YG1024, the urinary mutagenicity of shoe factory workers was significantly lower than the urinary mutagenicity of the control group, i.e. the occupational exposure either had no effect or it could not be detected under the experimental conditions used. The Ames mutagenicity test, and the Biotox™ toxicity test, yielded analogous patterns in the case of all groups of people analysed: the higher average mutagenicity was always accompanied by higher average toxicity.
Qualification of EYTEX® Data: A User's Guide
Authors: Martin Cliff G.
Published: August 2020

The EYTEX® system has been shown to be a very useful tool in the in vitro testing of toiletry raw materials. However, the interpretation of the results is not always simple. It requires an understanding of the physicochemical characteristics of the samples and of their interactions with components of the EYTEX® system.

The results of 364 assays using the EYTEX® standard assay, membrane partition assay, rapid membrane assay and upright membrane assay protocols have been collated against the problem areas for each method. These assays were performed on a collection of 18 pure surfactant raw materials and also on blends of surfactants. The results for 18 surfactants are reviewed according to surfactant type and interpreted with reference to the concentration-response curve for each material.

This paper describes the problem areas of inhibition, interference and negative optical densities associated with the non-qualification of EYTEX® assays, and shows how they have been overcome. In conclusion, some guidelines for using a concentration-response assay are given, so that the optimum concentration for a dose-response assay for a new sample can be obtained with the minimum waste of time or reagents.
Reconstructed Human Epidermis In Vitro: An Alternative to Animal Testing
Authors: Ponec Maria
Published: August 2020

Various three-dimensional human skin models, in which the epidermis exhibits in vivo-like morphological and functional characteristics, have recently been developed. Such models are currently being used to study the development and physiology of the skin, the processes involved in wound healing, and the reactivity of skin to environmental and chemical insults. Since these models reproduce to a large extent the barrier function properties of normal human skin, they can be used for screening potential skin irritants. These substances can be applied topically and their irritant potential can be evaluated using various endpoints, such as the induction of tissue damage or the release of various pro-inflammatory mediators. Studies with human skin equivalents can therefore contribute to our knowledge of the basic biochemical mechanisms underlying irritant reactions, and can be used to understand the structural features of molecules which may be responsible for eliciting an irritant reaction. In addition”, the generation of epidermal equivalents populated with melanocytes, as well as keratinocytes, makes it possible to study the regulation of melanogenesis, melanocyte–keratinocyte interactions, and how these are affected by UV irradiation. Such a model can also be used for testing the phototoxic or photoprotective potentials of various compounds and sunscreens.
Evaluation of the Immunotoxicity of Antiretroviral Drugs Using an In Vitro Method for the Induction and Measurement of a Specific Antibody Response in Human Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes
Authors: Luzzati Alma L. , Giacomini Elena , Giordani Luciana
Published: August 2020

We studied the effects of the antiretroviral drugs 3’-azido-3’-deoxythymidine (AZT) and 2’,3’-dideoxycytidine (DDC) on the induction of a specific primary antibody response to the antigen SRC and on Pokeweed mitogen-induced polyclonal immunoglobulin (Ig) production in cultures of normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes.

The results presented here show that AZT and DDC inhibited both systems in a dose-dependent way. However, inhibition of the antigen-specific antibody response occurred at drug concentrations significantly lower than those effective on the mitogen-driven polyclonal response. This was particularly striking for DDC, which was approximately 100 times more powerful, on a molar basis, on the specific antibody response than on polyclonal Ig production. Thus, in vitro systems for the induction of antigen-specific antibody responses in human lymphocytes may be important, sensitive tools for preclinical studies of the immunotoxicity of antiretroviral drugs.
Benefits, Necessity and Justification in Animal Research
Authors: Jennings Maggy , Silcock Sheila
Published: August 2020

The cost–benefit assessment in the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 is said to ensure that animals are only used in experiments which are justified and necessary. The way in which the Home Office Inspectorate derives the cost–benefit assessment is explained in the Report of the Animal Procedures Committee for 1993. However, evaluation of both costs and benefits is largely subjective, as are concepts such as “necessity” and “justification”. These concepts mean different things to different people in different places and at different times, depending on the pressures to which they are subject. These include the socio-economic climate and the context in which the proposed research is to be carried out. Animal use cannot, therefore, be said to be necessary and/or beneficial unless serious questions are answered with respect to who or what the research is necessary for, who or what will benefit from it and who defines the criteria used in the justification process. Retrospective analysis of whether the proposed benefit was actually achieved and applied is also important. Discussion regarding the necessity, benefits and justification of individual research projects, and of overall research goals or directions, tends to be obscured by the polarised debate over the morality and scientific validity of animal experiments as a whole. This paper raises some of the issues that could be discussed in a wider view of the cost–benefit assessment, with reference to selected areas of animal use as examples.
The Comparative Testing of Eight Coded Chemicals in the Rat Limb Bud Micromass and Rat Embryo Culture Systems
Authors: Amacher David E. , Stadler Jeanne , Schomaker Shelli J. , Verseil Christian
Published: August 2020

When cultured at high density, mesenchymal cells from rat limb buds proliferate and differentiate into chondrocytes. Inhibition of this in vitro chondrogenic process has been used for the preliminary evaluation of teratogenic potential. Alternatively, intact post-implantation rat embryos, maintained in short-term culture, provide a system for the in vitro study of abnormal development not limited to the skeletal system. Both systems isolate the test agent from maternal metabolism and pharmacokinetic restraints. In this study, drug-associated selective inhibition of alcian blue uptake by cartilage proteoglycans, in micromass cultures of limb bud cells prepared from 13-day-old rat embryos, was used to assess teratogenic potential in vitro following exposure for 48 hours to eight coded compounds (acetylsalicylic acid, isoniazid. penicillin G, saccharine, vincristine sulphate, 6-aminonicotinamide, retinoic acid, and amaranth). Following drug exposure, cultures were incubated for another 96 hours, and the cells were then fixed and stained with 0.5% alcian blue. Bound dye was then extracted and quantitated. In parallel cultures, cell viability was measured by neutral red uptake, and protein content was assayed by using the bicinchoninic acid method. Except for retinoic acid and vincristine sulphate, the maximum test concentration was 1000μg/ml. Inhibition of alcian blue uptake (> 50%) was noted at 0.001μg/ml vincristine sulphate, 0.5/μg/ml retinoic acid and 5μg/ml 6-aminonicotinamide, demonstrating that strong teratogens inhibit differentiation in micromass cultures at lower concentrations than those which affect limb cell viability. When the same eight compounds were tested in a 24-hour embryo culture model, dysmorphogenesis was evident at 0.005μg/ml vincristine sulphate, 0.1μg/ml retinoic acid and 0.3μg/ml 6-aminonicotinamide. For the other five chemicals, little or no toxicity was noted up to the maximum test concentration in either model. We conclude that the two test systems, both based on the developing rat embryo, are consistent with each other, and that either of them would be useful for the preliminary screening of potential teratogens.
Animal Laboratory Exercises in Medical School Curricula
Authors: Wolfe Mitchell , Barnard Neal D. , McCaffrey Suzanne M.
Published: August 2020

The use of laboratory exercises involving animals in medical education is a subject of ongoing interest. Updated information is not often available, however, on the prevalence of such exercises or of alternatives to their use. In May 1994, a questionnaire on the use of animal laboratory exercises and suitable alternatives was sent to the chairpersons of the physiology, pharmacology and surgery departments of each of the 126 US medical schools. In comparison with earlier surveys, the information returned showed that the number of medical schools reporting the use of laboratory animals in physiology appears to have declined from over 50% to 41%, the number of schools reporting the use of laboratory animals in pharmacology courses appears to have declined from 25% to 16%, and the number of schools that reported the use of laboratory animals in surgery courses increased from around 20% to 30%. For the 53 schools that returned information from all three disciplines, 49% reported having no laboratory exercises involving animals in any of these disciplines. Computer programs and films were the most commonly used non-animal alternatives offered in physiology and pharmacology, while operating room experience was the most common alternative offered in surgery courses.
Levels and volatility in daily relationship quality: Roles of daily sacrifice motives
Authors: Kayabol Nazlı Büşra Akçabozan , Gonzalez Jose-Michael , Gamble Hilary , Totenhagen Casey J. , Curran Melissa A.
Published: August 2020

Conflicts are inevitable in romantic relationships. Couples sometimes choose the pro-relationship strategy of relational sacrifice to address such conflicts. Previous research established that examining sacrifice motives (i.e., approach and avoidance) is meaningful in understanding relationship quality. Using interdependence theory and 14 days of diaries with 110 heterosexual couples, we extend previous research by testing how sacrifice motives predicted both mean levels and volatility of daily relationship quality (i.e., satisfaction, commitment, intimacy, passion, trust, and love). Specifically, we examined actor and partner reports of sacrifice motives as individuals’ average levels (trait; between-person differences) and daily levels of sacrifice motives on a specific day (state; within-person differences) in predicting relationship quality. When predicting mean levels of relationship quality, individuals’ own (actor) trait and state approach and avoidance motives predicted most relationship quality variables. Results were less robust for partner effects, especially for partner trait and state approach motives. When predicting volatility (within-person variability across 14 days) in relationship quality, patterns were more robust for both approach and avoidant motives and for both actor and partner effects. For approach sacrifices, and for all six relationship quality variables, individuals’ trait approach motives predicted lower volatility, whereas avoidance motives predicted higher volatility. For partner effects, individuals reported lower volatility in satisfaction, intimacy, passion, and trust when their partners were higher in approach motives, whereas they reported higher volatility in satisfaction, commitment, intimacy, and trust when their partners were higher in avoidance motives. We discuss the importance of studying dyads and testing the associations between sacrifice motives and daily relationship quality—both levels and volatility.
Pivoting to stay the course: How women entrepreneurs take advantage of opportunities created by the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Manolova Tatiana S , Brush Candida G , Edelman Linda F , Elam Amanda
Published: August 2020

COVID-19 is unique in the severity of its impact as it is a humanitarian disaster that has caused both a supply and a demand shock to the global economic system. It has disproportionately affected women entrepreneurs as their firms are younger and smaller. In this commentary, we contend that while all businesses must pivot their business models in times of tumultuous change, simultaneously reducing risk and seizing new opportunities, this is particularly difficult for women entrepreneurs, whose businesses are concentrated in the industry sectors most severely affected by the economic shutdown. We draw on recent survey data from the Diana International Research Institute (DIRI) to identify business model pivots in women-owned businesses, and conclude by offering a set of gendered future research questions.
COVID-19 and Hospital Palliative Care – A service evaluation exploring the symptoms and outcomes of 186 patients and the impact of the pandemic on specialist Hospital Palliative Care
Authors: Hetherington Lucy , Johnston Bridget , Kotronoulas Grigorios , Finlay Fiona , Keeley Paul , McKeown Alistair
Published: August 2020

Background:

Patients hospitalised with COVID-19 have increased morbidity and mortality, which requires extensive involvement of specialist Hospital Palliative Care Teams. Evaluating the response to the surge in demand for effective symptom management can enhance provision of Palliative Care in this patient population.

Aim:

To characterise the symptom profile, symptom management requirements and outcomes of hospitalised COVID-19 positive patients referred for Palliative Care, and to contextualise Palliative Care demands from COVID-19 against a ‘typical’ caseload from 2019.

Design:

Service evaluation based on a retrospective cohort review of patient records.

Setting/participants:

One large health board in Scotland. Demographic data, patient symptoms, drugs/doses for symptom control, and patient outcomes were captured for all COVID-19 positive patients referred to Hospital Palliative Care Teams between 30th March and 26th April 2020.

Results:

Our COVID-19 cohort included 186 patients (46% of all referrals). Dyspnoea and agitation were the most prevalent symptoms (median 2 symptoms per patient). 75% of patients were prescribed continuous subcutaneous infusion for symptom control, which was effective in 78.6% of patients. Compared to a ‘typical’ caseload, the COVID-19 cohort were on caseload for less time (median 2 vs 5 days; p < 0.001) and had a higher death rate (80.6% vs 30.3%; p < 0.001). The COVID-19 cohort replaced ‘typical’ caseload; overall numbers of referrals were not increased.

Conclusions:

Hospitalised COVID-19 positive patients referred for Palliative Care may have a short prognosis, differ from ‘typical’ caseload, and predominantly suffer from dyspnoea and agitation. Such symptoms can be effectively controlled with standard doses of opioids and benzodiazepines.
A Longitudinal Examination of Language Skills, Social Skills, and Behavior Problems of Preschool Children From Low-Income Families
Authors: Davis Alexandra Nicole , Qi Cathy Huaqing
Published: August 2020

We examined the relations between language skills and behavior problems and whether social skills mediated these relations among preschool children enrolled in Head Start programs. Participants included 242 preschool children and their parents in Head Start programs. Over a 2-year period, parents and teachers reported children’s behavior problems using the Child Behavior Checklist Ages 1½-5, and social skills using the Social Skills Improvement System-Rating Scales. Children’s expressive and receptive language skills were assessed individually using the Preschool Language Scale-5. Results suggested that children’s early receptive language predicted later teacher-reported child internalizing and externalizing behaviors. Social skills did not mediate associations between language skills and parent- or teacher-reported child behavior problems.
Iatrogenic aortic dissection following transradial coronary angiography in a patient with an aberrant right subclavian artery
Authors: Wang Peijian , Wang Qiulin , Bai Chen , Zhou Peng
Published: August 2020

An aberrant right subclavian artery is a congenital aortic arch anomaly in which the right subclavian artery originates from the proximal descending aorta. The presence of an aberrant right subclavian artery can make right transradial coronary interventions more difficult and even lead to complications. Iatrogenic intramural hematomas and dissection of aberrant right subclavian arteries during transradial coronary angiography have been previously reported. We herein report a case of iatrogenic aortic dissection following attempts to perform right transradial coronary angiography in a patient with an aberrant right subclavian artery. Clinicians should be vigilant for the presence of an aberrant right subclavian artery during right transradial coronary angiography and ensure gentle manipulation of wires and catheters to avoid complications.
The efficacy of transversus abdominis plane block for postoperative analgesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomy cases: a retrospective evaluation of 515 patients
Authors: Tekeli Arzu Esen , Eker Esra , Bartin Mehmet Kadir , Öner Muzaffer Önder
Published: August 2020

Objective

To compare patients that received intravenous (i.v.) analgesics with those that received transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block for pain relief after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled patients that had undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy and divided them into two groups: the i.v. analgesic group (controls; group A) and the TAP block group (group T). Data retrieved from the medical records included postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, total hospital stay, additional analgesic requirements and the occurrence of nausea and vomiting.

Results

A total of 515 patients were included (group A, n = 247; group T, n = 268). Postoperative VAS pain scores at 0, 2, 4 and 6 h and the need for additional analgesics were significantly lower in group T than in group A. Postoperative VAS pain scores at 12 and 24 h were significantly higher in group T than in group A. Postoperative nausea and vomiting were significantly lower in group T than in group A. The rate of ICU admission in group T was significantly lower than in group A.

Conclusions

Effective postoperative analgesia can be achieved with TAP block and undesirable effects can be reduced.
Artificial dermal substitutes for tissue regeneration: comparison of the clinical outcomes and histological findings of two templates
Authors: De Francesco Francesco , Busato Alice , Mannucci Silvia , Zingaretti Nicola , Cottone Giuseppe , Amendola Francesco , De Francesco Marialuisa , Merigo Flavia , Riccio Valentina , Vaienti Luca , Parodi Pier Camillo , Sbarbati Andrea , Riccio Michele
Published: August 2020

Objective

Artificial dermal substitutes (DSs) are fundamental in physiological wound healing to ensure consistent and enduring wound closure and provide a suitable scaffold to repair tissue. We compared the clinical and histological features of two DSs, Pelnac and Integra, in the treatment of traumatic and iatrogenic skin defects.

Methods

This prospective observational study involved 71 randomly selected patients from our hospital. Wound healing was analyzed using the Wound Surface Area Assessment, the Vancouver Scar Scale, and a visual analog scale. Histological and immunohistochemical evaluations were also performed.

Results

At 2 weeks, greater regeneration with respect to proliferation of the epidermis and renewal of the dermis was observed with Pelnac than with Integra. At 4 weeks, the dermis had regenerated with both DSs. Both templates induced renewed collagen and revascularization. Differences in the Vancouver Scar Scale score were statistically significant at 4 weeks and 1 year. Pelnac produced a significant increase in contraction at 2 weeks with increasing effectiveness at 4 weeks. Integra produced a higher percentage reduction in the wound surface area and a shorter healing time than Pelnac for wounds >1.5 cm deep.

Conclusion

Our observational data indicate that both DSs are effective and applicable in different clinical contexts.
Ikaros is heterogeneously expressed in lung adenocarcinoma and is involved in its progression
Authors: Zhao Wei , Chen Tong-bing , Wang Hui
Published: August 2020

Objective

The aim of the present study was to assess the expression of the Ikaros transcription factor (IKZF1) in lung adenocarcinoma and investigate whether expression levels of Ikaros are correlated with lung adenocarcinoma progression.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of 325 cases of resected stage I pulmonary adenocarcinoma, in which histological subtyping was performed according to the 2015 World Health Organization classification. We performed immunohistochemical examinations to assess expression of Ikaros in pulmonary adenocarcinomas and evaluated the correlation between Ikaros expression and cancer progression.

Results

Immunohistochemical staining was heterogeneous, with the majority of well-differentiated and moderately differentiated lung adenocarcinomas being weakly positive and the majority of the poorly differentiated lung adenocarcinomas exhibiting strong positive staining. Higher expression of Ikaros was associated with tumor recurrence or metastasis.

Conclusions

Ikaros is heterogeneously expressed in different subtypes of lung adenocarcinoma; higher expression of Ikaros was found to be associated with cancer progression.
Analysis of characteristics of vulvo-vaginal infections in 14- to 18-year-old girls in late puberty
Authors: Xu Ling , Hu Zhengqiang , Yu Fan , Tang Yuanting
Published: August 2020

Objective

This study aimed to determine the characteristics of vulvo-vaginal infections in 14- to 18-year-old girls in late puberty.

Methods

From July 2016 to June 2019, 487 14- to 18-year-old girls with vulvo-vaginal infection in late puberty in West China Second University Hospital were retrospectively studied. The incidence of bacterial vaginosis (BV), the intermediate type of BV, vulvo-vaginal candidiasis (VVC), Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), and differences among the incidence of these infections for patients with different ages were analyzed.

Results

The incidence of BV, the intermediate type of BV, TV, VVC, and unknown pathogenic vaginitis was 25.67%, 19.30%, 2.46%, 29.37%, and 23.20%, respectively. The incidence of BV and VVC was significantly higher than that of TV. The incidence of BV in the 17-year-old group was significantly higher than that in other age groups. The incidence of VVC and non- albicans Candida infection in the 17- and 18-year-old groups was significantly higher than that in the 14-year-old group.

Conclusion

Girls in late puberty are more susceptible to suffer from BV and VVC than TV infections. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the effects of menstrual hygiene, female estrogen levels, the vaginal internal environment, and hygiene in vulvo-vaginal infection at this stage.
Symptom Burden and Unmet Needs in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: Exploratory Analyses From the RESPECT-Meso Study
Authors: Hoon Siao Nge , Lawrie Iain , Qi Cathy , Rahman Najib , Maskell Nick , Forbes Karen , Gerry Stephen , Monterosso Leanne , Chauhan Anoop , Brims Fraser J. H.
Published: August 2020

Objective:

Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM) has a poor prognosis and high symptom burden. RESPECT-Meso was a multicenter randomized study examining the role of early specialist palliative care (SPC) on quality of life (QoL) with MPM. This is a post-hoc exploratory analysis of the symptom burden and unmet needs identified from RESPECT-Meso participants.

Methods:

Exploratory analysis from 174 participants using the General Health Status (GHS) measure (from the EORTC QLQ-C30 QoL questionnaire) and 87 participants using validated assessment questionnaires in those randomized to SPC. Eligibility for the study included confirmed MPM with diagnosis <6 weeks prior, performance score (PS) 0 or 1, no significant physical or psychological comorbidity. Cox proportional hazards models were derived to examine for relationships with survival. Free text was assessed using content analysis, looking for common themes and words.

Results:

Participants were predominantly male (79.9%), mean age 72.8 years, PS was 0 in 38%, 78% of MPM was epithelioid. At least 3 symptoms were reported in 69.8% of participants, including fatigue (81%), dyspnea (73.3%), pain (61.2%), weight loss (59.3%). Anxiety was reported by 54.7% of participants, 52.3% low mood and 48.8% anhedonia symptoms. After multivariable adjustment, only pain remained statistically significant with a hazard ratio (HR) 2.9 (95% CI 1.3-6.7; p = 0.01). For each 1 unit increase in GHS score, the HR for death was 0.987 (0.978-0.996; p = 0.006), indicating a worse reported QoL is related to shorter survival. Unmet needs were common: 25.9% wanted more information about their condition, 24.7% about their care and 21.2% about their treatment. 79.1% were concerned about the effect of their illness on family.

Conclusion:

There is a high symptom burden in mesothelioma despite good baseline performance status. A worse QoL is associated with a worse survival. Unmet needs are common, perhaps highlighting a need for improved communication and information sharing.
Female Authorship in Radiology: Trends in the Past Decade in CARJ
Authors: Li Nicole , Alabousi Mostafa , Patlas Michael N.
Published: August 2020

Purpose:

To identify trends in female authorship in the Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal (CARJ) from 2010 to 2019.

Methods:

We retrieved papers published in the CARJ over a 10-year period, and retrospectively reviewed 602 articles. All articles except editorials and advertisements were included. We categorized the names of the first and last position authors as female or male and excluded articles that had at least one author of which gender was not known. We compared the trends in the first and last position authors of the articles from 2010 to 2019. For statistical analysis, logistic regression was performed with reported odds ratios (ORs), and a P value of <.05 was defined as statistically significant.

Results:

Five hundred thirteen articles met inclusion criteria. Among them, 23 articles with a single author were classified as having only a first author. 39.8% (204/513) of first authors were female and 26.9% (132/490) of last authors were female. There has been an overall temporal increase in the odds of both the first and last author being female in CARJ publications (OR: 1.11, P = .034). Similarly, the odds a CARJ publication’s first author being female increased over time (OR: 1.07, P = .033). Female last author did not predict female first author (OR: 1.48, P = .056). There was no association identified between female last author and year of publication (OR: 1.04, P = .225).

Conclusion:

There has been an overall increase in engagement of female authorship in CARJ.
Treatment Limitation Decisions in Critically Ill Patients With a Malignancy on the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: van der Zee Esther N. , Epker Jelle L. , Bakker Jan , Benoit Dominique D. , Kompanje Erwin J. O.
Published: August 2020

Background:

Treatment limitation decisions (TLDs) on the ICU can be challenging, especially in patients with a malignancy. Up-to-date literature regarding TLDs in critically ill patients with a malignancy admitted to the ICU is scarce. The aim was to compare the incidence of written TLDs between patients with an active malignancy, patients with a malignancy in their medical history (complete remission, CR) and patients without a malignancy admitted unplanned to the ICU.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a large university hospital in the Netherlands. We identified all unplanned admissions to the ICU in 2017 and categorized the patients in 3 groups: patients with an active malignancy (study population), with CR and without a malignancy. A TLD was defined as a written instruction not to perform life-saving treatments, such as CPR in case of cardiac arrest. A multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify whether having a malignancy was associated with TLDs.

Results:

Of the 1046 unplanned admissions, 125 patients (12%) had an active malignancy and 76 (7.3%) patients had CR. The incidence of written TLDs in these subgroups were 37 (29.6%) and 20 (26.3%). Age (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.01 -1.04), SOFA score at ICU admission (OR 1.11; 95% CI 1.05 -1.18) and having an active malignancy (OR 1.75; 95% CI 1.04-2.96) compared to no malignancy were independently associated with written TLDs. SOFA scores on the day of the TLD were not significantly different in patients with and without a malignancy.

Conclusions:

This study shows that the presence of an underlying malignancy is independently associated with written TLDs during ICU stay. Patients with CR were not at risk of more written TLDs. Whether this higher incidence of TLDs in patients with a malignancy is justified, is at least questionable and should be evaluated in future research.
Bottom-up creativity and insurgent citizenship in “Afro Lisboa”: Racial difference and cultural commodification in Portugal
Authors: Garrido Castellano Carlos , Raposo Otávio
Published: August 2020

This article analyzes recent audio-visual creativity by young Afrodescendants emerging out of the outskirts of Lisbon. We argue that those cultural productions are challenging unproblematic identifications of the Portuguese capital as a multicultural city shaped by African communities. Responding to issues of racism, police violence, and urban marginalization, but also to celebratory views of Portuguese society as exempt of racial discrimination, the communities inhabiting the neighborhoods of Cova da Moura and Quinta do Mocho are employing creative means to develop a positive identification of afro-diasporic communities. Engaging those means, this article places bottom-up creativity side by side to the activity of Lisbon cultural institutions such as museums and contemporary art centers. It also addresses the relevance of visual and musical creativity to counter the stereotypes and images frequently used to categorize racialized subjects and communities in Portugal. Finally, it explores the strategies employed by the residents of the above mentioned neighborhoods to struggle against the process of cultural gentrification Lisbon is going through.
Effect of high-strength bolts and supporting structures on the carrying capacity of three-row roller slewing bearings
Authors: He Peiyu , Wang Yun
Published: August 2020

Three-row roller slewing bearings are the core components of large-scale rotating equipment. A large structural size and heavy load conditions require an extremely high carrying capacity. The inner ring of the slewing bearing is divided into upper and lower parts in this paper, which is the same as the actual working condition and effectively avoids the increase in the stiffness caused by simplifying the inner ring as a whole. Different bolt models and bolt preloads, the effect of the roller diameter on the stiffness and the strength of the support structure are analysed to improve the calculation accuracy and efficiency of the carrying capacity of the slewing bearing. Calculation formulas based on engineering experience and strain measurement are used to verify the validity of the finite element model. The research shows that the carrying capacity of the slewing bearing is affected by the supporting structure; as the bolt preload increases, the overall deformation of the slewing bearing decreases, and the load distribution is smoother. The key structures of the slewing bearing are studied, which is conducive to improving the carrying capacity and optimizing the design.
Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Children and Adolescents with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Brazil: A Multicentric Retrospective Study
Authors: de Melo Rodrigues Ana Luiza , Bonfim Carmem , Seber Adriana , Colturato Vergilio Antonio Rensi , Zecchin Victor Gottardello , Nichele Samantha , Daudt Liane Esteves , Fernandes Juliana Folloni , Vieira Ana Karine , Darrigo Junior Luiz Guilherme , Gomes Alessandra Araujo , Arcuri Leonardo , Lenzi Luana , Picharski Gledson Luiz , Ribeiro Raul Correa , de Figueiredo Bonald Cavalcante
Published: August 2020

The survival rates of children with high-risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated with hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) range from 60% to 70% in high-income countries. The corresponding rate for Brazilian children with AML who undergo HSCT is unknown. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 114 children with AML who underwent HSCT between 2008 and 2012 at institutions participating in the Brazilian Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant Working Group. At transplant, 38% of the children were in first complete remission (CR1), 37% were in CR2, and 25% were in CR3+ or had persistent disease. The donors included 49 matched-related, 59 matched-unrelated, and six haploidentical donors. The most frequent source of cells was bone marrow (69%), followed by the umbilical cord (19%) and peripheral blood (12%). The 4-year overall survival was 47% (95% confidence interval [CI] 30%–57%), and the 4-year progression-free survival was 40% (95% CI 30%–49%). Relapse occurred in 49 patients, at a median of 122 days after HSCT. There were 65 deaths: 40 related to AML, 19 to infection, and six to graft versus host disease. In conclusion, our study suggests that HSCT outcomes for children with AML in CR1 or CR2 are acceptable and that this should be considered in the overall treatment planning for children with AML in Brazil. Therapeutic standardization through the adoption of multicentric protocols and appropriate supportive care treatment will have a significant impact on the results of HSCT for AML in Brazil and possibly in other countries with limited resources.
Rapid polymerase chain reaction test for the early diagnosis of gonococcal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Wang Chia-Yu , Shen Elizabeth P
Published: August 2020

Purposes:

A case of gonococcal keratoconjunctivitis rapidly diagnosed by a vaginal swab PCR Xpert® CT/NG assay.

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

A 26-year-old woman presented to our emergency department with severe perilimbal stromal melting in both eyes and profuse purulent discharge for one day. Upon emergent ocular consultation, gonococcal keratoconjunctivitis was suspected. A vaginal swab was sent for rapid PCR Xpert® CT/NG assay which reported positive Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia Trachoma (CT) DNA detection within 90 min. Due to the rapid diagnosis, adequate medical intervention with ceftriaxone injection was administered. Gonococcal keratitis with stromal melting was stabilized within 5 days of presentation. The patient was discharged with complete epithelial healing by the 8th day. However, 10 weeks after discharge, inadvertent rubbing of the left eye resulted in corneal perforation with iris prolapse. Lamellar keratoplasty with corneal patch graft was performed with amniotic membrane grafting. Xpert® CT/NG assay was performed again with conjunctival swab for recurring mild eye discharge. Both NG and CT were negative. The patient thus stabilized with no further complications.

Conclusions:

Rapid stromal melting can occur with un-diagnosed or delayed diagnosis of gonorrhea with ocular involvement. Speedy and accurate diagnosis by the highly sensitive and specific Xpert® CT/NG assay can provide early definite diagnosis for prompt treatment in prevention of gonococcal infection induced corneal perforations.
3D printing for clothing production
Authors: Spahiu Tatjana , Canaj Eriseta , Shehi Ermira
Published: August 2020

3D printing is a well-known technology for creating 3D objects by laying down successive layers of various materials. Among the wide range of applications, fashion industry has adapted these technologies to revolutionize their brands. But due to the unique characteristics of textiles like comfort, flexibility, and so on, attempts have been made to create similar structures as textiles. The work presented here is part of a project to create garments using fused deposition modeling as 3D printing technology. Structures with various geometries are designed and tested with different materials starting from rigid to flexible. As a result, a fully 3D printed dress is created. Selecting this dress as a model, consumer acceptance for 3D printed garments is evaluated realizing an online survey containing 100 respondents. The data gathered show that respondents have knowledge of 3D printing, its advantages and the majority of them would accept wearing a 3D printed dress.
Using Collaborative Video-Cued Narratives to Study Professional Learning: A Reflective Analysis
Authors: Liao Wei
Published: August 2020

This paper proposes the collaborative video-cued narrative (CVN) as an alternative methodological approach to studying professional learning. The CVN approach conceptualizes professional learning as a process in which teachers and students of professional education work collaboratively as “co-inquirers” to understand and enhance professional learning in practice. Aligned with this epistemological stance, CVNs capitalize on the advantages of three existing methodologies (i.e., video-cued ethnography, narrative inquiry, and action research) and cyclically use five key steps to study and improve professional learning, including 1) making video-recordings of learning activities, 2) identifying critical learning incidents, 3) cutting video clips of critical learning incidents, 4) using video clips to cue narrative reflections and develop action plans, and 5) taking action to improve learning in practice. In this paper, I first review the major epistemological and methodological issues in the existing literature on professional learning. Then, I elaborate on the theoretical and methodological grounds of CVNs and why, in theory, it can be a powerful alternative approach to studying professional learning. Next, drawing on interviews with eight students and my own reflective teaching journals in a doctoral course context, I analyze my experience in using CVNs to study professional learning in the context of teacher educator preparation. The analysis results suggest that CVNs seem effective in elevating students’ consciousness of professional learning, empowering their agency in enquiring into professional learning, and creating extended space and materials for professional learning. However, CVNs may cause ethical issues, such as coerced participation or “faked” learning, if a trustworthy relationship is not yet established and then sustained throughout the research process. In conclusion, I discuss how future studies can take on and further develop CVNs to pluralize the research approaches to studying professional learning.
Endograft type and anesthesia mode are associated with mortality of endovascular aneurysm repair for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms
Authors: Bellamkonda Kirthi S , Yousef Sameh , Zhang Yawei , Dardik Alan , Geirsson Arnar , Chaar Cassius I Ochoa
Published: August 2020

Objective

Endovascular aneurysm repair has become the primary treatment modality for ruptured infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm. This study examines the impact of endograft type on perioperative outcomes for ruptured infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Method

The targeted endovascular aneurysm repair files of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database (2012–2017) were used. Only patients treated for ruptured infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm were included. All patients requiring concomitant stenting of the visceral arteries or aneurysmal iliac arteries or open abdominal surgery were excluded. The characteristics of patients treated with the different endografts and the corresponding outcomes were compared using Stata software.

Results

There were 479 patients treated with the three most common endografts: Cook Zenith ( n = 127), Gore Excluder ( n = 239), and Medtronic Endurant ( n = 113). The number of other endografts was too small for statistical analysis. Compared to patients treated with Excluder or Endurant, the patients treated with Zenith had significantly lower body mass index ( P < .001) and were less likely to be white ( P < .001). On the other hand, patients treated with Endurant were less likely to be smoker ( P = .016). Patients treated with Zenith had significantly larger ruptured infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm diameter ( P = .045). The overall mortality was 18% and morbidity 74.3%. There was a statistically significant difference in overall mortality (Zenith = 11.8%, Excluder = 18%, Endurant = 24.8%, P = .033) but not morbidity ( P = .808) between the three groups. Post hoc analysis for overall mortality showed only significant difference between Zenith and Endurant. The difference in mortality was not significant in patients presenting with ruptured infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm without hypotension ( P = .065). On multivariable analysis, treatment with the Endurant endograft was associated with increased mortality compared to Zenith (odds ratio = 3.0 [confidence interval 1.31–6.7]). General anesthesia (odds ratio = 2.67 [confidence interval 1.02–7.02]), rupture with hypotension (odds ratio = 4.49 [confidence interval 2.54–7.95]), and dependent functional status (odds ratio = 5.7 [confidence interval 1.96–16.59]) were independently associated with increased mortality while increasing body mass index (odds ratio = 0.97 [confidence interval 0.95–0.99]) was associated with reduced risk of mortality.

Conclusions

This study highlights contemporary outcomes of endovascular aneurysm repair for ruptured infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm with relatively low mortality. Endograft type and anesthesia technique are modifiable factors that can potentially improve outcomes. Significant variation in the outcomes of the different endografts warrants further research.
Thinking rural health in Santal community in West Bengal: An interprofessional bottom-up approach to rural health
Authors: Widmer Daniel , Ouvrard Patrick , Vaucher Carla , Guinchard Blaise , Bhattacharya Kumkum , Bhattacharya Ranjit K , Baumann Madeleine , Rossi Ilario
Published: August 2020

Background

An interprofessional and cross-cultural pedagogical project in community health for students in nursing, social work, anthropology and medicine at the end of the bachelor’s degree begun in 2014. After a rural context fieldwork in several Santal villages of West Bengal (India), students had to conduct a research project, based on a community-health topic.

Aims

This paper describes how such a pedagogical project, introducing students to ethnographic research, can initiate new ways of thinking for possible future health interventions in rural communities.

Methods

An inductive approach based on ethnography was used during the fieldwork, including observations, interviews, focus groups and local documentation.

Results

Our observations led to the finding that actions in rural health cannot be initiated without: promoting an interprofessional/interdisciplinary perspective and a culture of complexity and reflectivity; considering local populations in transition and not in a fixed homogenous situation; understanding more than imposing; taking into account local disease classification and local pragmatic solutions; considering the dialogue between bio-medicine and therapeutic pluralism; considering local perceptions and practices; considering care itineraries/pathways; and finally being conscious of our apostolic function.

Conclusion

Our interprofessional pedagogical project promotes a bottom-up approach in dialogue with a global health vision.