bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Validation of In Vitro Tests in Neurotoxicology
Authors: Campbell Iain C. , Fletcher Lynda , Grant Paul A.A. , Abdulla Elizabeth M. 
Published: August 2020

The major challenges in neurotoxicity testing relate to the complexity of the nervous system, the diversity of cell types involved, and the level of integration in the mammalian nervous system. In addition, compounds which have selective pharmacological effects as receptor agonists/antagonists (for example, strychnine) may be neurotoxic at non-cytotoxic concentrations. Tests should answer the following questions: a) when is an effect toxic?, b) when is a substance to be considered toxic? and c) is the long-term risk assessment valid? The two major strategies used in the development of in vitro neurotoxicity tests are: mechanistic, in which an attempt is made to elucidate the biochemical processes involved in neurotoxicity, and disease based, which could ultimately be the most useful strategy but which is currently constrained by lack of knowledge of the aetiology of most neurological illnesses. Potential in vitro test systems which are being developed include: a) simple tests which measure the activity of an enzyme (for example, acetylcholine esterase); b) studies involving single cell type culture (for example, neuroblastomas or dorsal root ganglion cells); c) complex primary co-culture systems (for example, reaggregate culture; 1, 2); and d) combinations of these, including tiered testing and battery testing (3). Unfortunately, the more complex a system is, the more extensive is the characterisation needed, and, arguably, such systems will never fully mimic the intact central nervous system/peripheral nervous system (CNS/PNS). To demonstrate some of the problems inherent in neurotoxicity test development, the use of a system which involves the inhibition of outgrowth is described. The ideas are developed to include the shift toward proliferation and/or apoptosis of non-terminally differentiated neurons. The most realistic objective for the optimised, integrated and validated in vitro reductionist approach for neurotoxicological assessment is for the screening of new compounds in parallel with: a) the in vivo holistic approach (for example, to obtain pharmacokinetics and absorption/receptor-binding data); and b) quantitative structure activity relationships (QSARs). This is necessarily a selective review, and more details of methodologies and strategies are presented in other publications (3, 4).
Early experience of pump-controlled retrograde trial off for weaning from veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adult patients with cardiogenic shock
Authors: Ju Min Ho , Lim Mi Hee , Lee Soo Yong , Lee Chee-Hoon , Je Hyung Gon 
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Pump-controlled retrograde trial off has recently been introduced as an effective method for weaning from veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in pediatric patients. However, studies on pump-controlled retrograde trial off in adults are still lacking. Thus, this study aimed to examine the outcomes of pump-controlled retrograde trial off for weaning from veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adult patients. Methods: Between January 2018 and July 2019, 87 consecutive adult patients underwent veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support, of whom 47 (54.0%) underwent pump-controlled retrograde trial off for weaning from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and were enrolled in this study. The pump-controlled retrograde trial off results, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation reapplication rate, and clinical outcomes were analyzed. Results: Of the 47 patients, 38 (80.9%) were weaned from veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation on the first attempt of pump-controlled retrograde trial off, 5 (10.6%) on the second attempt, and 4 (8.5%) on the third attempt. Three patients were converted to venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation by desaturation but had stable blood pressure during pump-controlled retrograde trial off. No extracorporeal membrane oxygenation reapplication was performed within 3 days after removal, and two patients underwent veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation during follow-up. No complications associated with pump-controlled retrograde trial off occurred during the weaning process, including thromboembolic events. Five in-hospital deaths (10.6%) occurred after weaning from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Conclusion: Pump-controlled retrograde trial off is an effective method to safely wean from veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adult patients. It is simple and can be easily implemented without additional invasive procedures and may help prevent deterioration of the cardiovascular system after weaning from veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
Type 1 tympanoplasty in patients with large perforations: Comparison of temporalis fascia, partial-thickness cartilage, and full-thickness cartilage
Authors: Xing Caixia , Liu Hong , Li Guodong , Li Jianfeng , Li Xin 
Published: August 2020

Objective This study aimed to compare the results of different graft materials in type I tympanoplasty for patients with a large perforation of the tympanic membrane. Methods We performed a retrospective study on 180 patients with type I tympanoplasty. The patients were divided into three groups according to the repair materials used. Age, sex, pre- and postoperative hearing levels, mean air–bone gap, rate of graft success, hearing gain, and the postoperative graft failure rate were evaluated. We continued to follow-up the patients to 1 year after surgery. Results The air conduction threshold was significantly higher before the operation than after the operation in the temporalis fascia, partial-thickness cartilage, and full-thickness cartilage groups. Although the hearing gain in the temporalis fascia group and the partial-thickness cartilage group was higher than that in the full-thickness cartilage group, there was no significant difference in the graft success rate among the groups. Conclusions Temporalis fascia, partial-thickness cartilage, and full-thickness cartilage can be used as appropriate transplantation materials for tympanoplasty type I in patients with a large perforation. Temporalis fascia and partial-thickness cartilage may be best for improvement of hearing.
Lack of association between CYP11B2 -344T/C polymorphism and transient ischemic attack in a Chinese population
Authors: Fan Jia , Shen Yaoliang , Chen Bo , Xu Chunyang , Ye Hongwei , Wang Jian , Zhou Wenjun , Sheng Yuefeng , Xu Feng , Yang Peng 
Published: August 2020

Objective This study investigated whether the CYP11B2 -344T/C polymorphism is correlated with transient ischemic attack (TIA) susceptibility. Methods We recruited 100 TIA patients and 100 control subjects and analyzed the CYP11B2 -344T/C polymorphism using restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP). Results The frequency in TIA patients and controls was 42% compared with 48% for TT genotypes, 51% compared with 45% for TC genotypes, and 7% compared with 7% for CC genotype, respectively. Allele frequencies in TIA patients and controls were 67.5% compared with 70.5% for T-allele and 32.5% compared with 29.5% for C-allele, respectively. No association between the CYP11B2 -344T/C polymorphism and TIA was observed in all comparisons. Conclusion Our data suggest that there was no association between the CYP11B2 -344T/C polymorphism and TIA in a Chinese population.
Surface toughening – An industrial approach to increase the robustness of pure adhesive joints with film adhesives
Authors: Schollerer MJ , Kosmann J , Holzhüter D , Bello-Larroche C , Hühne C 
Published: August 2020

Bonding is known for its wide range of advantages over bolted joints when joining different materials together. However, the advantages e.g. of homogeneous load distribution can quickly be lost in case of overload. For this reason, the load occurring in the adhesive is reduced by constructive measures far below the yield stress of the adhesive, which leads to a conservative joint design. And to be on the safe side, a few “chicken rivets” are then placed again. This problem is particularly well known in aviation. Highly loaded components are structurally bonded by a combination of rivets and adhesive in order to underline the advantages of structural adhesive bonding with the safety of the well-known bolted joints. Known as fail-safe design, this concept is damage tolerant and more robust against manufacturing defects through a secured double load path.  Especially when joining fiber-reinforced composites, bolts weaken the adherends of the joint and only contribute to load transfer when the brittle adhesive fails. With the help of Surface Toughening, a boltless technique for reducing stress concentrations and arresting cracks in adhesive bonded joints is available. This work describes the industrial application of this technique. Starting with coupon tests and a small scale demonstrator to ensure the compatibility with industrial manufacturing processes, such as infusion and prepreg manufacturing, a large scale demonstrator of a 2 m carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) - HTP leading edge with hybrid laminar flow control is manufactured by the industrial partner AERnnova. Verifying a simple and cost-effective application of the technology, Surface Toughening enables robust bonded joints with a minimum impact on today's process of adhesive bonding.
Rituximab desensitization in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia with severe anaphylaxis
Authors: V Villarreal-González Rosalaura , E de Lira-Quezada Cindy , N González-Díaz Sandra , L Carrasco-Díaz Ligia , González-Llano Oscar 
Published: August 2020

Introduction Hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to rituximab occur during the first infusion in 29% to 40% of patients. Commonly, these hypersensitivity reactions are the result of a release of cytokines, although IgE mediated reactions have also been reported. Case Report A 7-year-old female patient with diagnosis of CD-20 positive acute lymphoblastic B-cell leukemia was included in a pilot study that consisted of two doses of rituximab treatment in the induction to remission phase by the pediatric hematology service; 30 minutes after the first administration of 300 mg of rituximab the patient started with generalized rash, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, dyspnea, foreign body sensation in throat, oxygen desaturation until 89% and hypotension; therefore, the infusion of rituximab was suspended, and intramuscular epinephrine was administered as well as intravenous hydrocortisone and chlorphenamine and supplemental oxygen supply with adequate resolution of symptoms. Management & Outcome Intradermal skin testing with rituximab at the concentration 1 mg/ml (dilution 1:10), was positive. Desensitization to rituximab was indicated by our service with 4 bags – 16 steps protocol with an initial concentration dose of 1/1,000 of the total dose. The patient was premedicated 1 hour prior with intravenous chlorphenamine, methylprednisolone and ondansetron. Intravenous prophylactic fluids with normal saline solution were administered during the infusion. The procedure was carried out with close monitoring of vital signs in a course of 6.67 hours, without presenting hypersensitivity reactions. Discussion HSR to rituximab may be induced by the activation of mast cells and basophils. Desensitization protocols are developed when there is no alternative drug for the underlying condition.
Pediatric Soft Tissue Tumors With BCOR ITD Express EGFR but Not OLIG2
Authors: Salgado Claudia M. , Zin Angelica , Garrido Marta , Kletskaya Irina , DeVito Rita , Reyes-Múgica Miguel , Bisogno Gianni , Donofrio Vittoria , Alaggio Rita 
Published: August 2020

Introduction Somatic internal tandem duplication of 3’ of BCOR ( BCOR ITD) has been found in clear cell sarcomas of the kidney (CCSK), soft tissue undifferentiated round cell sarcomas/primitive myxoid mesenchymal tumors of infancy (URCS/PMMTI), and a subgroup of central nervous system high-grade neuroepithelial tumors (CNS-HGNET). BCOR ITD+ tumors share morphologic features. Expression of OLIG2 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been reported in CNS-HGNET with BCOR ITD. Here, we characterize OLIG2 and EGFR expression in URCS/PMMTI with BCOR ITD. Methods Paraffin blocks of 9 polymerase chain reaction-confirmed soft tissue BCOR ITD+ tumors (URCS/PMMTI) were immunophenotyped for OLIG2 and EGFR expression and scored semiquantitatively by percentage of positive cells and intensity of staining as negative, 1+, 2+, and 3+. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for EGFR amplification was performed (amplification EGFR/CEP7 ratio ≥2.0). Results All 9 tumors showed membrane/cytoplasmic expression of EGFR, strong and diffuse (3+) in 8 cases; weak (+2) in 1. FISH detected no EGFR amplification. OLIG2 was negative in all. Conclusions EGFR is overexpressed in pediatric URCS/PMMTI with BCOR ITD and may be related to transcriptional upregulation of EGFR by BCOR ITD. OLIG2 negative staining differentiates URCS/PMMTI from CNS-HGNET. This finding may further support the possibility that these tumors have a different stem cell of origin.
Surgical technique: Autologous scleral flap for optic disk pit maculopathy
Authors: Abdala-Caballero Carlos , Vidal Sofia , Unigarro Juan , Salgado Carlos , Cabal Pablo , Maeda Hiroshi , Bueso Ponce Diego 
Published: August 2020

Purpose: To present a clinical case and surgical technique for management of optic disk pit (ODP) maculopathy. Methods: Surgical technique video of lens sparring pars plana vitrectomy, autologous scleral flap insertion and gas tamponade. Results: After 1 year follow-up visual acuity was restored to 20/25, retinal serous detachment and schisis were resolved and the autologous scleral flap remained in the (ODP). Conclusion: In this case, treatment with pars plana vitrectomy autologous scleral flap insertion and gas tamponade for optic pit maculopathy provided satisfactory anatomical and functional results.
Applying the hip-spine relationship in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Wiznia Daniel H , Buchalter Daniel B , Kirby David J , Buckland Aaron J , Long William J , Schwarzkopf Ran 
Published: August 2020

Total hip arthroplasty dislocations that occur inside Lewinnek’s anatomical safe zone represent a need to better understand the hip-spine relationship. Unfortunately, the use of obtuse and redundant terminology to describe the hip-spine relationship has made it a relatively inaccessible topic in orthopaedics. However, with a few basic definitions and principles, the hip-spine relationship can be simplified and understood to prevent unnecessary dislocations following total hip arthroplasty. In the following text, we use common language to define a normal and abnormal hip-spine relationship, present an algorithm for recognising and treating a high-risk hip-spine patient, and discuss several common, high-risk hip-spine pathologies to apply these concepts. Simply, high-risk hip-spine patients often require subtle adjustments to acetabular anteversion based on radiographic evaluations and should also be considered for a high-offset stem, dual-mobility articulation, or large femoral head for additional protection against instability and dislocation.
The Natural Course of Cigarette Smoking among Adolescent Daily Smokers in France and Quebec
Authors: Minary Laetitia , Agrinier Nelly , Dugas Erika N , Sylvestre Marie-Pierre , O’Loughlin Jennifer 
Published: August 2020

Objective: To describe the natural course of cigarette smoking and nicotine dependence (ND) over 1-year in daily smokers ages 15 to 17 living in different social contexts. Method: Cigarette smoking and ND indicators were measured at baseline and 3- and 12-months thereafter among 95 daily smokers with a total of 123 observations from the Nicotine Dependence in Teens (NDIT) Study in Quebec, Canada, and in 111 daily smokers from the TABagisme chez les ADOlescents (TABADO) Study in Lorraine, France. Results: NDIT and TABADO participants initiated smoking a mean (SD) of 3.9 (1.6) and 3.7 (2.0) years prior to baseline, respectively. Despite baseline differences in age, sex, age at initiation, number of cigarettes smoked per day and social context, 85% of participants in both samples reported cravings and responded “yes” to “felt like you really need a cigarette”. Mean (SD) number of cigarettes smoked per day increased from 9.4 (8.1) to 11.8 (8.0) over 1 year in NDIT (adjusted mean difference (95% CI) = 2.4 (0.8, 3.0)), and from 11.5 (6.5) to 13.5 (6.7) in TABADO (adjusted mean difference (95% CI) = 2.0 (0.8, 3.1)). However, most ND indicators in both samples were stable over time and cessation was infrequent. Conclusion: Despite notable differences across samples, the natural course of cigarettes smoked per day, ND symptoms and cessation was similar, suggestive of an underlying biologic rather than social process. To quit, adolescents who smoke daily will likely need (pharmacologic) intervention to counter the biological mechanisms underpinning ND, as well as complementary strategies targeting the social context such as creating social environments favoring cessation success.
Developing a Guided Imagery Telephone-Based Tobacco Cessation Program for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Armin Julie S , Nair Uma , Giacobbi Peter , Povis Gayle , Barraza Yessenya , Gordon Judith S 
Published: August 2020

Background/Aims: Guided imagery is an evidence-based, multi-sensory, cognitive process that can be used to increase motivation and achieve a desired behavior. Quitlines are effective, standard care approaches for tobacco cessation; however, utilization of quitlines is low. Using guided imagery-based interventions for smoking cessation may appeal to smokers who do not utilize traditional quitline services. This paper reports the development of program materials for a randomized controlled feasibility trial of a guided imagery-based smoking cessation intervention. The objective of the formative work was to ensure that program materials are inclusive of groups that are less likely to use quitlines, including men and racial/ethnic minority tobacco users. Methods: A three-phase process was used to complete formative assessment: (1) integration of evidence-based cessation practices into program development; (2) iterative small group interviews (N = 46) to modify the program; and (3) pilot-testing the coaching protocol and study process among a small sample of smokers (N = 5). Results: The Community Advisory Board and project consultants offered input on program content and study recruitment based on their knowledge of minority communities with whom they conduct outreach. Small group interview participants included members of underserved quitline populations (52.37% non-white; 55.56% men). Only 28.26% of participants had prior experience with guided imagery, but others described the use of similar mindfulness and meditation practices. Participant feedback was incorporated into program materials and protocols. Discussion: Iteratively collected feedback and pilot testing influenced program content and delivery and informed study processes for a randomized controlled feasibility trial of a telephone-delivered, guided imagery-based intervention.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring System in Acromegalic Patients: Possible Role in the Assessment of Glycemia Control
Authors: Mercuri Valeria , D’Amico Tania , Costa Denise , De Vito Corrado , D’Angelo Luca , Schiaffini Riccardo , Gargiulo Patrizia 
Published: August 2020

Background: Acromegaly is characterized by an insulin resistance condition. There is a significant difference between the different types of therapy in relation to the glycometabolic framework. The blinded continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS), throughout a period of maximum 6 days for a total of 288 glycemic registrations per day, identifies glycemic excursions and could constitute a valid device to understand the 24-hour glycemic profiles. Aim of the study: To compare the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and CGMS methods in acromegalic patients to evaluate their glycemic profiles, in relation to different treatments for acromegaly. Methods: Thirty-five acromegalic patients were divided into 18 somatostatin analogs (SSA), 9 pegvisomant, and 8 successfully surgically treated. A 72-hour CGM was performed and, immediately after, an OGTT. Results: Results obtained from OGTT: 11/35 impaired fasting glucose, 6/35 impaired glucose tolerance, and 4/35 diabetes mellitus. A positive significant correlation was demonstrated between the OGTT peak and CGM peak in all of the patients, CGM peak of patients treated with SSA and those surgically treated, OGTT average and CGM area under concentration–time curve (AUC) for hyperglycemia of patients treated with SSA and those surgically treated, and CGM AUC for hyperglycemia of patients treated with SSA and those surgically treated. Conclusions: Our results show a significantly higher response in terms of mean and peak OGTT in patients treated with SSA, both compared to the CGM study, and compared to the group of patients receiving pegvisomant. The CGM system could represent an instrument for the evaluation of the glycemic trend of acromegalic patients.
Comparative Evaluation of Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Retromandibular Transparotid and Transoral Endoscopic-Assisted Approach for Surgical Management of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures
Authors: Sinha Ajit , Natarajan Srivalli 
Published: August 2020

Study Design: A prospective randomized comparative study was conducted to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of the retromandibular transparotid (RMT) approach with endoscopic-assisted transoral (ENDO) approach used for open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of adult mandibular subcondylar fractures. Objectives: To evaluate and compare the primary functional outcome using the Helkimo’s dysfunction index, the surgical ease, the incidence of facial nerve weakness, the cosmetic outcomes and the number of complications following ORIF of mandibular subcodylar fractures using the RMT and ENDO approaches. Methods: In this prospective study, 20 patients with unilateral/bilateral subcondylay fractures requiring ORIF were recruited between 2017 and 2018. Patients were randomly divided into RMT and ENDO group, 10 patients in each. Clinical and radiological assessment was done preoperatively and in postoperative period it was done at different intervals over the period of 6 months. The intraoperative parameter time taken during surgery was correlated for association with the time elasped since day of trauma and with the fracture severity. Similarly, the presence of multiple fractures of the mandible and postoperative occlusion were evaluated for the association. Results: Comparable functional results were noted in both groups without any statistical significance. ORIF in ENDO group proved to be more time-consuming. For the RMT group, visible scars were rated best or close to best at the end of 6 months but a greater number of facial nerve injuries were reported in the RMT group. Conclusions: Superiority of one approach over others cannot be established since the outcomes were not statistically different. However, the ENDO approach appears to be safer. Therefore, there is a need for the development of innovative armamentarium which would improve the dexterity and ease of the surgeon and hence the total time taken for this minimally invasive approach for the management of subcondylar fracture.