bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prowizoryczny (substytutywno-dyspersyjny) status etyki w polskim systemie edukacji
Authors: Domeracki Piotr
Published: September 2022

Przedmiotem niniejszego artykułu jest rzeczywiste – nie tylko formalne, ale i faktualne – usytuowanie etyki jako przedmiotu szkolnego w strukturze nadzorczo-zarządczo-organizacyjnej polskiego systemu edukacji. Celem badawczym tego tekstu jest wykazanie, za pomocą argumentacji opartej na rodzimej i zagranicznej literaturze naukowej, opiniotwórczych publikatorach oraz autorskiej eksploracji, że etyka jest – nie wiedzieć czemu – jedynym przedmiotem w systemie oświaty w Polsce, którego rachityczno-mgławicowy status można określić jako instytucjonalne rozproszenie lub inaczej jako dyspersyjną (nie)obecność. Metodologiczne instrumentarium mojej pracy stanowią komplementarne wobec siebie metody analizy i syntezy źródeł oraz danych, metoda analizy komparatystycznej, metoda interpretacji kontekstowej, metoda konstruktywistyczna oraz metoda egzemplifikacji. Linia argumentacyjna artykułu wiedzie kolejno od wykazania i analizy usytuowania etyki w obowiązującym w Polsce systemie prawno-oświatowym z jego konsekwencjami dla „ordopraktycznego” funkcjonowania etyki w realiach polskiej szkoły. W kolejnym kroku omawiam zagadnienie asynchronicznej dyferencjacji domeny etycznej w systemie oświaty, która powoduje jej parcelację i rozpad pomiędzy trzy nieskoordynowane ze sobą dziedziny: przedmiotowe, okazjonalne treści etyczne, wychowanie moralne oraz właściwe lekcje etyki. Oś artykułu stanowią rozważania poświęcone piwotalnemu charakterowi etyki w realiach polskiej edukacji. Najpoważniejszą jego konsekwencją jest jej zaledwie erzacowy status, obejmujący nie tylko prawo i uzus szkolny, ale również odbiór społeczny.
The Worth of Words: The Ethical Significance of Dialogue Structured as Asking–Responding in Józef Tischner’s Philosophy
Authors: Dziurosz-Serafinowicz Dominika
Published: September 2022

The importance of words has been emphasized by many ethicians and philosophers. Within interpersonal relationships, a significant dimension of the analysis of the word is its value. Ethics is dependent on the value of words, since without honest words we cannot have a real dialogue or then build a trustworthy community. In this paper, the author tries to show that within such a philosophical framework, the most fundamental element is a question–answer relationship, which is a basic structure for a dialogue. Asking is given special consideration by the Polish philosopher and priest Józef Tischner, who sees a question as a kind of request in the world of poverty which demands an ethical response. In this article, the author also presents Tischner’s original philosophy of drama—especially in respect to his view on a dialogic relationship between people—and then relationships within various groups, from large societies and nations to small communities. The ethical, axiological, anthropological, and even agathological and ontological significance of dialogue as asking–responding are also presented as a basis for a deeper communication.
Patronka do bierzmowania jako wzór moralny. Perspektywa wierzących katoliczek u progu dorosłości
Authors: Maciejewska Magdalena
Published: September 2022

Artykuł został poświęcony patronkom wybranym przez młode katoliczki w związku z sakramentem bierzmowania, przywoływanym przez nie po kilku latach od podjęcia tej decyzji. Jego podstawą były przeprowadzone w formie zogniskowanych wywiadów grupowych rozmowy z uczennicami ostatnich klas szkół średnich. Pomimo ustaleń poczynionych przez Konferencję Episkopatu Polski dotyczących zachowania przez młodych ludzi przy sakramencie bierzmowania imienia z chrztu (jeśli tylko jest to imię świętego), większość rozmówczyń miała możliwość wyboru dowolnej patronki. Według zaprezentowanych narracji było to dla nich istotnym wydarzeniem, a ich decyzje w większości były starannie przemyślane. Prowadzone w tym zakresie poszukiwania najczęściej miały charakter samodzielny, rzadko związany zarówno z lekcjami religii, jak i katechezą parafialną.
Patronki, na które przed kilkoma laty zdecydowały się rozmówczynie, często były przez nie prezentowane jako swoisty wzór moralny. Zachowania i postawy świętych lub błogosławionych były zazwyczaj pozytywnie odbierane przez dziewczęta stojące u progu dorosłości. W związku z tym warto poczynić refleksje dotyczące zarówno umożliwienia młodzieży autonomicznego, refleksyjnego wyboru patrona, z którym ze względu na określone czynniki, takie jak zainteresowania lub zawodowe plany, chcą się utożsamiać, jak i całego procesu zapoznawania ich z religijnymi wzorami osobowymi w kontekście katechezy parafialnej oraz szkolnej edukacji religijnej.
Performance Evaluation, Managerial Hedging, and Contract Termination
Authors: Huang Yu , Ju Nengjiu , Xing Hao
Published: September 2022

We develop a dynamic model where a principal contracts with an agent to operate a firm. The agent, protected by limited liability, trades privately a market portfolio to hedge market risk in his compensation. When liquidation cost of the firm is proportional to its size, the principal manages the termination risk by loading the contract with a positive market component, which alleviates termination risk in normal market conditions but makes termination more likely after negative market shocks. The optimal contract displays a dynamic mixture of absolute and relative performance evaluations and is implemented using a dynamic deferred compensation account.

This paper was accepted by Agostino Capponi, finance.

Funding: Y. Huang acknowledges financial support from the Shanghai Institute of International Finance and Economics and Fudan University [Gao Feng Project].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.4533 .
An Unusual Case of Malignant Melanoma with Metastasis to the Placenta During Pregnancy
Authors: Garcia-Ramiu Kenny , Mohsin Ibrahim , Ikeguchi Alexandra , Newberry Brian
Published: September 2022

Introduction: We describe an unusual case of metastatic melanoma of the brain with an unknown primary site during pregnancy. Case Description: A 35-year-old woman in the third trimester of pregnancy presented with ataxia, nausea, vomiting, headaches and diplopia. CT of the brain revealed a hyper-attenuating 2.1 cm mass in the fourth ventricle with mild obstructive hydrocephalus. A healthy newborn was delivered by urgent caesarean section. Craniotomy and resection of the brain lesion confirmed melanoma. Pathology of the placenta reported a ‘focal nest of melanocytes identified in intervillous space’. Discussion: Brain and maternal placenta pathology findings were consistent with melanoma, making this case relevant because of the possibility of metastatic melanoma in a fetus. Conclusion: Epidemiological data on congenital and infantile melanoma are scarce. Also, there is no database for long-term follow-up of children born to pregnant mothers with metastatic melanoma. Delayed presentation of melanoma in the child cannot be ruled out.
Experiences of young adults who have transferred from paediatric to adult congenital heart disease services
Authors: Morris Eithne , McKeever Stephen
Published: September 2022

Background/Aims

Congenital heart disease services are continuing to develop, yet little is known about the experiences of those who have transitioned from paediatric to adult services in the UK. This study explored patients' perceptions and lived experiences of this process to identify factors that contribute to positive and negative experiences, with the view of devising strategies to improve transition.

Methods

A phenomenological hermeneutical study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. The experiences of six young adults (aged 20–24 years) who had transitioned from paediatric to adult congenital heart disease services were explored.

Results

Participants saw transition as a milestone and they generally accepted outgrowing paediatric services, despite maintaining a sense of nostalgia for this time. Adjustment to a new service was ongoing and parental support was valued, although issues such as anxiety could be a barrier to the participant assuming responsibility for their own care. Good communication with healthcare professionals, involving individualistic care, consistency and patience, was perceived as a positive influence in adapting to the new service.

Conclusions

Participants mainly had positive experiences of transition from paediatric and adult congenital heart disease services, with parental and healthcare professional support being valued during and after transition. Healthcare professionals must integrate assessment of physical and psychological needs to support and empower patients and families in order to deliver a smooth transition into adult life and care.
Challenges and changes with COVID-19: Canadian paramedics' experiences
Authors: Boechler Lindsey , Ford-Jones Polly , Smith J Chris , Suthers Patrick , Cameron Cheryl
Published: September 2022

Background:

Healthcare systems, practitioners and communities have experienced momentous change and strain because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although paramedics are an essential component of the public health emergency response, the literature has focused primarily on the views of physicians, nurses and hospital administrators.

Aims:

This research sought to improve the understanding of the lived experiences of paramedics throughout the initial stages of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Methods:

The perspectives of paramedics were captured through an online survey consisting predominantly of open-ended questions.

Findings:

Three main themes describing the experiences of paramedics arose: challenges with change management; changes in day-to-day operations; and implications for mental health.

Conclusion:

This study has offered insights for future pandemic response in terms of information dissemination, practitioner involvement in policy and operational changes, and mental health and wellbeing support needs during and beyond a pandemic.
Can you help Dogs Trust spread the word about their dog welfare study?
Authors: Murray Jane
Published: September 2022

Dogs Trust is hoping for veterinary practices to get involved with Generation Pup. Jane Murray explains how veterinary professionals can get involved by encouraging owners of puppies under 16 weeks of age to sign up to the study. Puppies will be studied throughout their life to provide a clearer picture of how early life experiences, genetics and environment can influence future health and welfare.
Quality of Administrative Services in Higher Education
Authors: Rizos Spiridon , Sfakianaki Eleni , Kakouris Andreas
Published: September 2022

This study investigates the quality of higher education institutes’ (HEIs’) administrative services by assessing student satisfaction in the context of Total Quality Management (TQM). Differences between students’ perceptions and expectations of administrative service quality are examined and discussed. A questionnaire survey was developed employing the SERVQUAL service quality model, the results of which were further enhanced by the application of importance-performance analysis (IPA). All five dimensions of the model were explored (reliability, assurance, tangibles, empathy, and responsiveness) with data from the 104 students from five Greek HEIs who participated in the survey. The results of the IPA complemented the survey research by enabling recommendations for importance and performance. The study’s findings indicate that students’ expectations are not met by the administrative services provided at the time of examination. A gap is observed between perceptions and expectations on all dimensions, indicating the necessity to make improvements to enhance service quality.
The Army and the Expulsion of the Rump Parliament, September 1651 to April 1653
Authors: Gentles Ian
Published: September 2022

This chapter elaborates on Oliver Cromwell's three objectives: the dissolution of the Rump and the election of a new parliament; an Act of Oblivion for most royalists in order to broaden the Commonwealth's base of support; and systematic law reform that would give the people impartial justice. It recounts how Cromwell pushed ahead with his strategy of radicalism in public and conservatism. The chapter also discusses the launch of a second major political offensive by the officers—which began with a petition. It demonstrates the other signs of Rump's hostility to the army: troop reductions, pay cuts, and mounting arrears. The chapter then examines the preparations for the suppression of the Rump. It also looks at the violence against the Parliament and its aftermath, then considers further reasons why Cromwell dissolved the Rump.
Comparative Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities in the Leaves, Underground Stems and Roots of Bulbine abyssinica
Authors: Teffo Thabiso Katlego , Dukhan Shalini , Ramalepe Phillemon , Risenga Ida
Published: September 2022

Bulbine abyssinica is a succulent medicinal plant indigenous to South Africa. The species has been commonly used traditionally by indigenous people for the treatment of various skin related ailments as well as the management of diabetes mellitus. To date, limited studies have been conducted on the underground stems and roots, as well as comparative analyses across the different plant parts of the species. Methanolic extracts of B. abyssinica leaves, underground stems and roots were used to perform phytochemical screening, quantitative phytochemical analyses, antioxidant and antibacterial assays. The leaves contained most of the phytochemical groups tested, as well as higher total phenolic (1841.7 ± 4.8 mg/100g GAE), total flavonoid (809.2 ± 75.6 mg/100g QE), total tannin (2850 ± 70.01 mg/100g GAE) and total proanthocyanidin (636.67 ± 1.67 mg/100g CE) contents compared to the underground stems and roots. The antioxidant activity results showed that the roots exhibited the strongest scavenging power against 2, 2 diphenylpicryhydrazyl (DPPH) (0.105 ± 0.01 mg/ml), whereas the leaves showed a higher antioxidant power against hydrogen peroxide (0.66 ± 0.07 mg/ml) and metal chelating radicals (2.68 ± 0.16 mg/ml). All three plant parts showed intermediate zones of inhibition (10 - 19 mm) against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The current study validates the use of different plant parts of B. abyssinica in the traditional medicine context, and suggests the plant’s potential application in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
ASGBI surgical sustainability survey
Authors: Kenington JC , Lund Consultant J , Papalois V
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The National Health Service (NHS) has committed to reaching ‘net zero’ for greenhouse gas (GHG) production by 2040. Operating theatres produce high levels of GHG.

Methods

An online survey was conducted of Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland members regarding their awareness and commitments to sustainable practice.

Results

There were 136 responses to the survey (10% response rate). Three-quarters (73%) of those responding were male and half (54%) were consultants. One hundred and four respondents (76%) feel that it is the responsibility of all NHS staff to reduce the NHS carbon footprint. However, few currently take active steps to decrease the carbon footprint. Only 42 (31%) always or sometimes use the team briefing at the start of a theatre list to promote sustainable practices, only 39 (28%) of 123 respondents who perform laparoscopic surgery use fully or partly reusable ports and only 50 (53%) of 94 respondents involved in procurement consider the environmental impact during the process.

Conclusions

The results of this survey suggest a lack of engagement by general surgeons with the issue of high GHG production by operating theatres. Progress towards net zero emissions by 2040 will be challenging unless colleagues are actively engaged. Although there is recognition from those who were surveyed that the reduction of the NHS carbon footprint is everyone’s responsibility, few are taking even small steps to act on that obligation. Awareness of the problem needs to be quickly improved and a suite of practical actions to reduce the carbon footprint in theatre should be produced to facilitate change.
Creativity, confidence and the courage to change: the future dental workforce – part two
Authors: Gallagher Jenny
Published: September 2022

Workforce considerations must be focused on improving population oral health.
Efficacy of Lumbar Erector Spinae Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Hip Arthroplasty Patients– A Prospective Case Series
Authors: Adhye Bharati A. , Diwan Sandeep M. , Joshi Rajeev , Sancheti Parag K.
Published: September 2022

The Thoracic Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has been incorporated in multimodal analgesia protocols since 2016. In a series of 20 Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) patients, done under spinal anaesthesia, we studied the efficacy of Lumbar Erector spinae plane block (L-ESPB) for post operative analgesia. L-ESPB was administered at L4 with Ropivacaine 0.2% (0.4 mg/kg). Time to first analgesia (TTFA) request (mean 15.03 hours) and total opioid consumption in first 24 hours (mean 27.5 mg Tramadol) was noted. A median NRS at TTFA was 3.5. Our study demonstrates L-ESPB as an effective alternate technique for postoperative analgesia in THA patients. Keywords: Lumber ESP block, Hip Arthroplasty
Ischiorectal Abscess Under Bilateral Pudendal Nerve Block for Perioperative Analgesia in a Patient with Severe Ischaemic Heart Disease- A Case Report
Authors: Gawai Nitin , Diwan Sandeep , Lonikar Abhishek , Bhong Ganesh , Sancheti Parag
Published: September 2022

Anorectal abscess, an infection in the anal area is a potentially debilitating and painful condition requiring urgent drainage to prevent septicemia. Commonly performed under neuraxial anaesthesia, we report surgical drainage of bilateral ischiorectal abscess under bilateral pudendal nerve blocks and general anaesthesia in a patient with severe ischaemic heart disease. Through our case we add to the existing literature, the importance of administrating peripheral nerve block in highly co-morbid patients. Keywords: Anorectal abscess, Bilateral pudendal block, Severe ischaemic heart disease.
Phase unwrapping algorithm for images with local high-density noise
Authors: Wu Quan , Xu Gui Li , Yan Fu Ju
Published: September 2022

Due to undersampling and the
local phase with local high-density noise, it is still difficult to
develop a robust phase unwrapping algorithm. In order to
resolve this issue, here, we propose what we believe to be a novel
multiple path-following phase unwrapping (MPIPU) algorithm based on
the shearing interference principle to recover the undersampling phase
(non-noise). By calculating the unwrapping coefficient k, the phase
iteration filling algorithm based on least-squares is developed for
the high-density noise region in order to reconstruct the
three-dimensional surface topography of interferometric synthetic
aperture radar (InSAR) data. The proposed algorithm takes advantage of
the MPIPU’s ability to fill in the missing phase with fitting data and
can successfully suppress the error transfer caused by the blocky
noise phase iteration process. Several experiments are conducted using
both simulated and actual InSAR image data. The experimental findings
show that the proposed method can achieve robust phase unwrapping
performance on a phase of local high-density noise.
HAYSTAC: A Bayesian framework for robust and rapid species identification in high-throughput sequencing data
Authors: Dimopoulos Evangelos A. , Carmagnini Alberto , Velsko Irina M. , Warinner Christina , Larson Greger , Frantz Laurent A. F. , Irving-Pease Evan K.
Published: September 2022

Identification of specific species in metagenomic samples is critical for several key applications, yet many tools available require large computational power and are often prone to false positive identifications. Here we describe High-AccuracY and Scalable Taxonomic Assignment of MetagenomiC data (HAYSTAC), which can estimate the probability that a specific taxon is present in a metagenome. HAYSTAC provides a user-friendly tool to construct databases, based on publicly available genomes, that are used for competitive read mapping. It then uses a novel Bayesian framework to infer the abundance and statistical support for each species identification and provide per-read species classification. Unlike other methods, HAYSTAC is specifically designed to efficiently handle both ancient and modern DNA data, as well as incomplete reference databases, making it possible to run highly accurate hypothesis-driven analyses (i.e., assessing the presence of a specific species) on variably sized reference databases while dramatically improving processing speeds. We tested the performance and accuracy of HAYSTAC using simulated Illumina libraries, both with and without ancient DNA damage, and compared the results to other currently available methods (i.e., Kraken2/Bracken, KrakenUniq, MALT/HOPS, and Sigma). HAYSTAC identified fewer false positives than both Kraken2/Bracken, KrakenUniq and MALT in all simulations, and fewer than Sigma in simulations of ancient data. It uses less memory than Kraken2/Bracken, KrakenUniq as well as MALT both during database construction and sample analysis. Lastly, we used HAYSTAC to search for specific pathogens in two published ancient metagenomic datasets, demonstrating how it can be applied to empirical datasets. HAYSTAC is available fromhttps://github.com/antonisdim/HAYSTAC.
Widespread employment of conserved C. elegans homeobox genes in neuronal identity specification
Authors: Reilly Molly B. , Tekieli Tessa , Cros Cyril , Aguilar G. Robert , Lao James , Toker Itai Antoine , Vidal Berta , Leyva-Díaz Eduardo , Bhattacharya Abhishek , Cook Steven J. , Smith Jayson J. , Kovacevic Ismar , Gulez Burcu , Fernandez Robert W. , Bradford Elisabeth F. , Ramadan Yasmin H. , Kratsios Paschalis , Bao Zhirong , Hobert Oliver
Published: September 2022

Homeobox genes are prominent regulators of neuronal identity, but the extent to which their function has been probed in animal nervous systems remains limited. In the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans, each individual neuron class is defined by the expression of unique combinations of homeobox genes, prompting the question of whether each neuron class indeed requires a homeobox gene for its proper identity specification. We present here progress in addressing this question by extending previous mutant analysis of homeobox gene family members and describing multiple examples of homeobox gene function in different parts of theC.elegansnervous system. To probe homeobox function, we make use of a number of reporter gene tools, including a novel multicolor reporter transgene, NeuroPAL, which permits simultaneous monitoring of the execution of multiple differentiation programs throughout the entire nervous system. Using these tools, we add to the previous characterization of homeobox gene function by identifying neuronal differentiation defects for 14 homeobox genes in 24 distinct neuron classes that are mostly unrelated by location, function and lineage history. 12 of these 24 neuron classes had no homeobox gene function ascribed to them before, while in the other 12 neuron classes, we extend the combinatorial code of transcription factors required for specifying terminal differentiation programs. Furthermore, we demonstrate that in a particular lineage, homeotic identity transformations occur upon loss of a homeobox gene and we show that these transformations are the result of changes in homeobox codes. Combining the present with past analyses, 113 of the 118 neuron classes ofC.elegansare now known to require a homeobox gene for proper execution of terminal differentiation programs. Such broad deployment indicates that homeobox function in neuronal identity specification may be an ancestral feature of animal nervous systems.
The leptomeninges as a critical organ for normal CNS development and function: First patient and public involved systematic review of arachnoiditis (chronic meningitis)
Authors: Palackdkharry Carol S. , Wottrich Stephanie , Dienes Erin , Bydon Mohamad , Steinmetz Michael P. , Traynelis Vincent C.
Published: September 2022

Background & importance

This patient and public-involved systematic review originally focused on arachnoiditis, a supposedly rare “iatrogenic chronic meningitis” causing permanent neurologic damage and intractable pain. We sought to prove disease existence, causation, symptoms, and inform future directions. After 63 terms for the same pathology were found, the study was renamedDiseases of the Leptomeninges (DLMs). We present results that nullify traditional clinical thinking about DLMs, answer study questions, and create a unified path forward.

Methods

The prospective PRISMA protocol is published atArcsology.org. We used four platforms, 10 sources, extraction software, and critical review with ≥2 researchers at each phase. All human sources to 12/6/2020 were eligible for qualitative synthesis utilizing R. Weekly updates since cutoff strengthen conclusions.

Results

Included were 887/14286 sources containing 12721 DLMs patients. Pathology involves the subarachnoid space (SAS) and pia. DLMs occurred in all countries as a contributor to the top 10 causes of disability-adjusted life years lost, with communicable diseases (CDs) predominating. In the USA, the ratio of CDs to iatrogenic causes is 2.4:1, contradicting arachnoiditis literature. Spinal fusion surgery comprised 54.7% of the iatrogenic category, with rhBMP-2 resulting in 2.4x more DLMs than no use (p<0.0001). Spinal injections and neuraxial anesthesia procedures cause 1.1%, and 0.2% permanent DLMs, respectively. Syringomyelia, hydrocephalus, and arachnoid cysts are complications caused by blocked CSF flow. CNS neuron death occurs due to insufficient arterial supply from compromised vasculature and nerves traversing the SAS. Contrast MRI is currently the diagnostic test of choice. Lack of radiologist recognition is problematic.

Discussion & conclusion

DLMs are common. The LM clinically functions as an organ with critical CNS-sustaining roles involving the SAS-pia structure, enclosed cells, lymphatics, and biologic pathways. Cases involve all specialties. Causes are numerous, symptoms predictable, and outcomes dependent on time to treatment and extent of residual SAS damage. An international disease classification and possible treatment trials are proposed.
Seed production of wild soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. et Zucc.) under favorable, ruderal, and natural growing conditions
Authors: Mizuguti Aki , Aoki Daisuke , Takamoto Kei , Arii Aya , Goto Hidetoshi , Nakai Shuichi , Horak Michael J. , Huang Keguo , Stojšin Duška
Published: September 2022

Field trials were conducted in Japan under different growing conditions to better understand seed production of wild soybean (Glycine soja Seib. et Zucc.). The objectives of these trials were to evaluate yield and yield components of wild soybean: (1) across 11 diverse populations grown under favorable conditions to assess seed production potential, (2) under different planting densities (112, 208, 416, and 832 plants/m2) to assess intra-specific competition, and (3) across growing conditions (favorable, ruderal, and natural) to assess the impacts of environmental stress and inter-specific competition. Significant differences in yield and seed number observed among the evaluated wild soybean populations were predominantly due to environmental effects and genetic by environmental interaction. Seed production was impacted by both intra- and inter-specific competition. Wild soybean grown without plant competition had 51-fold and 247-fold higher yield compared to when grown in ruderal and natural environments, respectively. Under favorable growing conditions, wild soybean had substantial yield potential due to the ability to produce a high number of seeds. In nature, yield potential is severely limited because of plant competition and other environmental stressors. The results of this research are useful to inform environmental risk assessment when considering the potential impact of soybean biotechnology traits that increase or protect yield. If such traits were to be inadvertently transferred from imported soybean into wild soybean, this research indicates that the effects would likely have little overall impact on wild soybean seed production.
Tumor growth monitoring in breast cancer xenografts: A good technique for a strong ethic
Authors: Rodallec Anne , Vaghi Cristina , Ciccolini Joseph , Fanciullino Raphaelle , Benzekry Sebastien
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Although recent regulations improved conditions of laboratory animals, their use remains essential in cancer research to determine treatment efficacy. In most cases, such experiments are performed on xenografted animals for which tumor volume is mostly estimated from caliper measurements. However, many formulas have been employed for this estimation and no standardization is available yet.

Methods

Using previous animal studies, we compared all formulas used by the scientific community in 2019. Data were collected from 93 mice orthotopically xenografted with human breast cancer cells. All formulas were evaluated and ranked based on correlation and lower mean relative error. They were then used in a Gompertz quantitative model of tumor growth.

Results

Seven formulas for tumor volume estimation were identified and a statistically significant difference was observed among them (ANOVA test, p < 2.10−16), with the ellipsoid formula (1/6 π × L × W × (L + W)/2) being the most accurate (mean relative error = 0.272 ± 0.201). This was confirmed by the mathematical modeling analysis where this formula resulted in the smallest estimated residual variability. Interestingly, such result was no longer valid for tumors over 1968 ± 425 mg, for which a cubic formula (L x W x H) should be preferred.

Main findings

When considering that tumor volume remains under 1500mm3, to limit animal stress, improve tumor growth monitoring and go toward mathematic models, the following formula 1/6 π × L × W x (L + W)/2 should be preferred.
Composted invasive plant Ageratina adenophora enhanced barley (Hordeum vulgare) growth and soil conditions
Authors: Liu Hai , Zhao Qing , Cheng Yanhua
Published: September 2022

Ageratina adenophoraoriginating from central America has flooded forests, pastures, and farmland in more than 40 tropical and subtropical countries, causing huge ecological disasters and economic losses. In this paper, we intended to use a complex inoculum composed ofPseudomonas putitaandClostridium thermocellumtoin-situcompostA.adenophoradebris and then to compare the phytotoxicity of extracts from uncomposted and compostedA.adenophora(UCA and CA respectively) to barley seed germination and young seedling growth. A field experiment was finally conducted to reveal the effects of UCA and CA on barley nutrients uptake, yield, grain quality, soil enzyme activities, microbial biomass and biodiversity.In-situcomposting sharply decreased 4,7-dimethyl-1-(propan-2-ylidene)-1,4,4a,8a-tetrahydronaphthalene- 2,6(1H,7H)-dione(DTD) and 6-hydroxy-5-isopropyl-3,8-dimethyl-4a,5,6,7,8,8a-hexahydronaphthal en-2(1 H)-one(HHO) from 2096.3 and 743.7 mg kg-1in uncompostedA.adenophorato 194.4 and 68.19 mg kg-1in compostedA.adenophora. UCAE showed negative influences on seed germination performances (except lower rates on germination percentage). The mechanism may be the inhibition of bio-macromolecules hydrolysis (including proteins, starch, and phytin) in endosperms and their hydrolysates for forming new plants. CAE promoted seed germination and seedling growth, increased chlorophyll levels in leaves, and stimulated dehydrogenase and nitrate reductase activities in plants, while UCAE got opposite performance. Compared with chemical fertilizers, application of CA in combination with chemical fertilizers significantly improved plant nutrient uptake (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), yield, grain quality, quantity of 16S rDNA sequences, richness and diversity of bacterial communities in contrast to UCA which behaved otherwise. Taken together, the use of the microbial agent toin-situcompostA.adenophoramay be an effective approach for agricultural use ofA.adenophoradebris as a plant-friendly organic fertilizer, being undoubtedly worth advocating.
Perinatal outcome of twin pregnancies among mothers who gave birth in Adama Hospital Medical College, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Beyene Mekonen , Abdo Komicha Meyrema , Hussien Hassen , Abdulwahed Anwar , Hassen Tahir Ahmed , Roba Kedir Teji
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Twin pregnancy carries a high risk of pregnancy-related complications including adverse perinatal outcomes. Although evidence from international studies indicated an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies, little is known about the adverse perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies and associated factors in Ethiopia. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to estimate the incidence of twin pregnancies and related-adverse perinatal outcomes and identify factors associated with adverse perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies in Ethiopia.

Methods

A hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 322 mothers who gave twin birth at Adama Hospital Medical College between 08 July 2015 and 07 June 2017. In this study, the adverse perinatal outcome was defined as the presence of any of the following main conditions: low birth weight, preterm birth, stillbirth, low Apgar Scores, mal-presentation, Admission to neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and early neonatal deaths. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with adverse perinatal outcome at 95% CI or P-value of less than 0.05.

Result

Of 10,850 births recorded in the hospital, 354 births were twins and 322 of these paired records had complete perinatal information. One hundred ninety-nine (61.8%) of the 322 paired birth records had at least one adverse perinatal outcome on one or both twins. Low birth weight was the most common perinatal outcome followed by preterm birth. After adjusting for confounding factors, younger maternal age (AOR = 4.1, 95% CI; 1.3, 12.5) and not having ultrasound scan during antenatal care (AOR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.2, 3.1) were significantly associated with adverse perinatal outcomes.

Conclusion

The incidence of adverse perinatal outcome in twin pregnancies was high, that is, in 61.8% of twin births, there was at least one adverse perinatal outcome on one or both twins. Moreover, younger maternal age at birth and not having an ultrasound scan during antenatal care were found to be strong predictors for the observed high incidence of adverse perinatal outcomes.
Hypotension after general anesthesia induction using remimazolam in geriatric patients: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yokose Masashi , Takaki Ryuki , Mihara Takahiro , Saigusa Yusuke , Yamamoto Natsuhiro , Masui Kenichi , Goto Takahisa
Published: September 2022

Introduction

In geriatric patients, hypotension is often reported after general anesthesia induction using propofol. Remimazolam is a novel short-acting sedative. However, the incidence of hypotension after general anesthesia induction using remimazolam in geriatric patients remains unclear. This study aims to compare the incidence of hypotension associated with remimazolam and propofol in patients aged ≥80 years.

Methods

This single-center, double-blind, randomized, two-arm parallel group, standard treatment-controlled, interventional clinical trial will include 90 patients aged ≥80 years undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia who will be randomized to receive remimazolam or propofol for induction. The primary outcome is the incidence of hypotension after general anesthesia induction, occurring between the start of drug administration and 3 min after intubation. We define hypotension as mean blood pressure <65 mmHg. The primary outcome will be analyzed using the full analysis set. The incidence of hypotension in the two groups will be compared using the Mantel-Haenszel χ2 test. Subgroup analysis of the primary outcome will be performed based on the Charlson comorbidity index, clinical frailty scale, hypertension in the ward, and age. Secondary outcomes will be analyzed using the Fisher’s exact test, Student’s t test, and Mann–Whitney U test, as appropriate. Logistic regression analysis will be performed to explore the factors associated with the incidence of hypotension after anesthesia induction.

Discussion

Our trial will determine the efficacy of remimazolam in preventing hypotension and provide evidence on the usefulness of remimazolam for ensuring hemodynamic stability during general anesthesia induction in geriatric patients.

Trial registration

The study has been registered with UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000042587), on June 30, 2021.
Applicability of tools to identify potentially inappropriate prescribing in elderly during medication review: Comparison of STOPP/START version 2, Beers 2019, EU(7)-PIM list, PRISCUS list, and Amsterdam tool—A pilot study
Authors: Lisowska Agnieszka , Czepielewska Edyta , Rydz Martyna , Dworakowska Anna , Makarewicz-Wujec Magdalena , Kozłowska-Wojciechowska Małgorzata
Published: September 2022

Potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) is one of the major risk factors of adverse drug events in elderly patients. Pharmacotherapy assessment criteria may help reduce the instances of PIP among geriatric patients. This study aimed to verify the applicability of selected tools designed to assess prescribing appropriateness in elderly and to identify PIP in the study population. Based on pharmacist-led medication reviews that were performed among patients attending senior day-care centers based in Poland, aged 65 years and over, the following tools were applied for assessing the appropriateness of pharmacotherapy: PILA (patient-in-focus listing approach): STOPP/START v.2 and Amsterdam tool, DOLA (drug-oriented listing approach): PRISCUS list, and DOLA+: Beers criteria v.2019 and the EU(7)-PIM list–the criteria oriented on medications requiring indications. Fifty patients participated in the study. The prevalence of prescribing issues in the study population was very high and ranged from 28% to 100%, depending on the criteria applied. The highest number of PIP cases was identified based on the PILA criteria: STOPP/START v.2 (171, a mean of 3.4 PIP cases per patient), and the Amsterdam criteria (124, a mean of 2.5 PIP cases per patient). The lack of protective vaccinations against pneumococci identified using the START criterion was found to be the most common PIP (identified in 96% of the patients). Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) were identified as the most problematic group of medications. The STOPP, EU(7)-PIM and Beers criteria revealed cases of inappropriate prolonged PPI use, whereas the Amsterdam tool identified cases where PPIs should have been prescribed but were not. The highest number of PIP cases in the study population were identified with the PILA tools, and on this basis the most comprehensive assessment of pharmacotherapy appropriateness in geriatric patients was conducted. Further studies should be designed, covering a larger group of patients across different healthcare settings (inpatient and outpatient), with access to comprehensive patient data.
Influence of sugar concentration on the vesicle compactness, deformation and membrane poration induced by anionic nanoparticles
Authors: Hasan Sharif , Karal Mohammad Abu Sayem , Akter Salma , Ahmed Marzuk , Ahamed Md. Kabir , Ahammed Shareef
Published: September 2022

Sugar plays a vital role in the structural and functional characteristics of cells. Hence, the interaction of NPs with cell membranes in the presence of sugar concentrations is important for medicinal and pharmacological innovations. This study integrated three tools: giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs), anionic magnetite nanoparticles (NPs), and sugar concentrations, to understand a simplified mechanism for interactions between the vesicle membranes and NPs under various sugar concentrations. We focused on changing the sugar concentration in aqueous solution; more precisely, sucrose inside the GUVs and glucose outside with equal osmolarity. 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-(1′-rac-glycerol) (sodium salt) (DOPG) and 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC) were used to prepare the charged membranes of 40mole%DOPG/60mole%DOPC-GUVs, whereas only DOPC was used to prepare the neutral membranes. Phase contrast fluorescence microscopy shows that the adherence of 18 nm magnetite NPs with anionic charge depends on the sugar concentration. The alterations of GUVs induced by the NPs are characterized in terms of i) vesicle compactness, ii) deformation, and iii) membrane poration. The presence of sugar provides additional structural stability to the GUVs and reduces the effects of the NPs with respect to these parameters; more precisely, the higher the sugar concentration, the smaller the alteration induced by the NPs. The differences in NPs effects are explained by the change in the type of interaction between sugar molecules and lipid membranes, namely enthalpy and entropy-driven interaction, respectively. In addition, such alterations are influenced by the surface charge density of the lipid bilayer. The surface pressure of membranes due to the adsorption of NPs is responsible for inducing the poration in membranes. The differences in deformation and poration in charged and neutral GUVs under various sugar concentrations are discussed based on the structure of the head of lipid molecules.
On punk friendship and the limits of community
Authors: Grinnell George C.
Published: September 2022

The article examines two recent memoirs by punk musicians, From the Graveyard of the Arousal Industry by Justin Pearson and The Spitboy Rule by Michelle Cruz Gonzales, and asks how do these works rethink the value and function of community in punk and what might be involved in recognizing friendship as something that can structure punk around altogether different operations than a notion of community presently does? The article contests a popular and scholarly perception that punk is best appreciated as a distinct community of outcasts, a view that justly recognizes that punk is much more than a failed social protest. Gonzales and Pearson challenge the assumption that punk offers a community for marginalized individuals, documenting the routine discrimination they faced from punks who prioritized uniformity and idealized norms of white male heterosexuality. Their memoirs examine how punk sometimes replicates the discriminatory social norms the authors encountered outside of the subculture and thus these works explore the limits of interpreting punk as a separate community. As an alternative, Gonzales and Pearson test out expressions of punk friendship that retain some of the optimism and sociability of punk while also remembering the centrality of relations of power that condition any practice of living with others.
União Europeia como Ator Internacional: : Paz e Segurança nas Narrativas e Práticas
Authors: Freire Maria Raquel , Nascimento Daniela
Published: September 2022

Este volume analisa a União Europeia como ator internacional, focando na sua atuação na área da paz e da segurança. Num contexto internacional onde os desafios à paz e segurança são diversos, incluindo o atual contexto de guerra na Ucrânia, este volume contextualiza teoricamente a UE nos estudos de paz e segurança, trabalha a dimensão institucional, e interpreta as narrativas e políticas aqui implicadas. Um conjunto de estudos de caso ilustrativos procurarão refletir sobre as dinâmicas de paz e segurança no quadro da UE e das suas ações/intervenções, como por exemplo na Parceria a Leste ou nas relações com a Rússia, e em contextos como o de crescente desinformação ou através da sua presença numa missão no terreno.
Augmented Reality to Improve Surgical Workflow in Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion – A Feasibility Study With Case Series
Authors: Sommer Fabian , Hussain Ibrahim , Kirnaz Sertac , Goldberg Jacob L. , Navarro-Ramirez Rodrigo , McGrath Jr Lynn B. , Schmidt Franziska A. , Medary Branden , Gadjradj Pravesh Shankar , Härtl Roger
Published: September 2022

Objective: Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) is a highly reproducible procedure for the fusion of spinal segments. We recently introduced the concept of “total navigation” to improve workflow and eliminate fluoroscopy. Imageguided surgery incorporating augmented reality (AR) may further facilitate workflow. In this study, we developed and evaluated a protocol to integrate AR into the workflow of MISTLIF.Methods: A case series of 10 patients was the basis for the evaluation of a protocol to facilitate tubular MIS-TLIF by the application of AR. Surgical TLIF landmarks were marked on a preoperative computed tomography (CT)-scan using dedicated software. This marked CT scan was fused intraoperatively with the low-dose navigation CT scan using elastic image fusion, and the markers were transferred to the intraoperative scan. Our experience with this workflow and the surgical outcomes were collected.Results: Our AR protocol was safely implemented in all cases. The TLIF landmarks could be preoperatively planned and transferred to the intraoperative imaging. Of the 10 cases, 1 case had additionally a synovial cyst resection and in 2 cases an additional bony decompression was performed due to central stenosis. The average procedure time was 160.6 ± 31.9 minutes. The AR implementation added 1.72 ± 0.37 minutes to the overall procedure time. No complications occurred.Conclusion: Our findings support the idea that total navigation with AR may further facilitate the workflow, especially in cases with more complex anatomy and for teaching and training purposes. More work is needed to simplify the software and make AR integration more user-friendly.
Minimally Invasive Posterior Facet Decortication and Fusion Using Navigated Robotic Guidance: Feasibility and Workflow Optimization
Authors: Good Christopher R. , Orosz Lindsay D. , Lehman Ronald A. , Gum Jeffrey L. , Fox Douglas , Lieberman Isador H.
Published: September 2022

Minimally invasive spine surgery reduces tissue dissection and retraction, decreasing the morbidity associated with traditional open spine surgery by decreasing blood loss, blood transfusion, complications, and pain. One of the key challenges with a minimally invasive approach is achieving consistent posterior fusion. Although advantageous in all fusion surgeries, solid posterior fusion is particularly important in spinal deformity, revisions, and fusions without anterior column support. A minimally invasive surgical approach accomplished without sacrificing the quality of the posterior fusion has the potential to decrease both short- and long-term complications compared to the traditional open techniques. Innovations in navigated and robotic-assisted spine surgery continue to address this need. In this article, we will outline the feasibility of achieving posterior facet fusion using the Mazor X Stealth Edition Robotic Guidance System.