bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presenting unwieldy pasts
Authors: Hite Katherine , Jara Daniela
Published: June 2020

In the rich and varied work of memory studies, scholars have turned to exploring the meanings that different communities assign to the past, the social mediations of memories, as well as how the memories of subaltern subjects re-signify the relationship between history and memory. This special issue explores the ever present dynamics of unwieldy pasts through what have been termed “the spectral turn” and “the forensic turn.” We argue that specters (which appear in the literature as ghosts, or as haunting) and exhumations defy notions of temporality or resolution. Both trace the social dynamics that redefine the meanings of the past and that voice suffering, expose institutions’ limits, reveal disputes, explore affect and privilege political resistance. They draw from significant intellectual traditions across disciplinary and thematic boundaries in the natural and social sciences, the humanities, art and fiction. Their intellectual subjects range from work that explores the political struggles of confronting slavery and the possibility of reparations in the Americas long after it was formally abolished, to sensitive treatments of graves of Franco’s Spain. We suggest that both the spectral turn and the forensic turn have provided lenses to conceptualize the social life of unwieldy pasts, by exploring its dynamics, practices, and the cultural transmissions. They have also offered a language to communities that mobilize the political strength of resentment, deepened by the late phase of global capitalism and its consequent, deepening inequalities.
The buried king and the memory of the future: From Washington Irving to Bruce Springsteen
Authors: Portelli Alessandro
Published: June 2020

Drawing from stories, literary texts, myths, and songs, the article explores the “intangible” imagery—dreams, souls, ghosts, memory—that uses the nostalgia of the past to announce the possibility of a future. The image of the buried and sleeping king represents myth of a past Golden Age but also the vision of a future rebirth. Such examples include the figures of Rip Van Winkle, Hendrick Hudson, and Boabdil in the works of US author Washington Irving (1783–1859). Other examples include the figure of Metacomet, also rescued by Irving, or of Atahualpa, of Inca mythology. From Washington Irving to the songs of Bruce Springsteen, the image of a past that accompanies and haunts the present to project a utopian future never ceases to reappear.
From mourning severed to mourning recovered: Tribute and remembrance strategies for families of the victims of Francoist repression
Authors: Aguilar Paloma
Published: June 2020

This article considers the different mourning strategies organized by the families of those Republicans executed in the Spanish Civil War to pay them tribute. For relatives, the need to remember their kinfolk acquired a much more dramatic meaning given the restrictions on mourning imposed under Francoism. But families often managed to circumvent the dictates of authoritarian power and devised creative strategies of tribute and remembrance. After Franco’s death, the transition could be made from a mourning that was private and clandestine to one that was public. In many cases, those who had been disgraced by the dictatorship were eventually resignified as heroic upholders of freedom and democracy. The choice of Casas de Don Pedro is essentially because of its status as the first village to exhume executed Republicans in Extremadura, one of the earliest regions to undertake this kind of initiative.
Death, doubt, truth and charisma: Exhumations, enigmas and manipulations surrounding the deaths of Salvador Allende and Eduardo Frei Montalva
Authors: Joignant Alfredo , Basaure Mauro , Gárate Manuel
Published: June 2020

This essay explores what has been an undertheorized link between forensic investigations and the sociological concept of charisma. To do so, we examine the deaths of two illustrious men: former Chilean presidents Salvador Allende and Eduardo Frei Montalva. Our interest is not to elucidate the causes of their deaths from a medical or legal point of view, but rather to understand what is constitutive of the investiture of political power. Based on the notion of charisma and the sentiments produced by forensic investigations, this article explores those non-visible elements that emanate from charisma as a concept, vested in the dead leaders’ remains.
Effect of berberine on LPS-induced expression of NF-κB/MAPK signalling pathway and related inflammatory cytokines in porcine intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Zhu Zhang , Xueying Li , Chunlin Li , Wen Xiong , Rongrong Zeng , Jing Huang , Meilan Jin , Yuwei Xu , Zili Wang
Published: June 2020

Berberine is an alkaloid extracted from medicinal plants such as Coptis chinensis and Phellodendron chinense. It possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour and anti-oxidation properties, and regulates Glc and lipid metabolism. This study explored the mechanisms of the protective effects of berberine on barrier function and inflammatory damage in porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) induced by LPS. We first evaluated the effects of berberine and LPS on cell viability. IPEC-J2 cells were treated with 5 μg/ml LPS for 1 h to establish an inflammatory model, and 75, 150 and 250 μg/ml berberine were used in further experiments. The expression of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α was measured by RT-PCR. The key proteins of the NF-κB/MAPK signalling pathway (IκBα, p-IκBα, p65, p-p65, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p-JNK, p38, p-p38, ERK1/2 and p-ERK1/2) were detected by Western blot. Upon exposure to LPS, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA levels and p-IκBα p-p65 protein levels were significantly enhanced. Pre-treatment with berberine reduced the expression of inflammatory factors and was positively correlated with its concentration, and dose dependently inhibited the expression of IκBα, p-IκBα, p-p65, p-p38 and JNK. These results demonstrated that pre-treating intestinal epithelial cells with berberine was useful in preventing and treating diarrhoea induced by Escherichia coli in weaned pigs.
Change in bowel habits during menstruation: are IBD patients different?
Authors: Lahat Adi , Falach-Malik Alona , Haj Ola , shatz Zina , Ben- Horin Shomron
Published: June 2020

Background and aim:

Many female inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients report symptoms exacerbation before and during menses. Our aim was to characterize their symptoms and specific risk factors in comparison with healthy controls.

Methods:

Female IBD patients aged 18–50 years were asked to fill out a questionnaire recording their demographic and disease characteristics, menstruation history and symptoms. Disease activity was defined by Harvey–Bradshaw index (HBI) for Crohn’s disease (CD) patients and modified mayo score for ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. Healthcare providers answering an internet survey assessing bowel symptoms during menstruation served as healthy controls.

Results:

A total of 139 IBD patients, of whom 100 were CD patients, filled the questionnaire. The mean age was 30.4 [±7.7 standard deviation (SD)], mean disease duration was 7.8 (±6 SD), mean HBI was 4.7 (±3.8 SD), and mean Mayo score was 2.1 (±2.5 SD). A change in bowel habits during menstruation was reported by 72% of CD patients compared with 56% of UC patients ( p = 0.07). Out of 258 healthy controls, 93% reported a change in bowel habits during menstruation compared with 68% of IBD patients ( p < 0.001). However, other abdominal and constitutional symptoms were significantly more prevalent among IBD patients compared with healthy controls ( p < 0.01 for most parameters). Smoking status, biologic treatment, and previous abdominal operation were found to significantly aggravate symptoms during menses in IBD patients

Conclusion:

IBD patients experience various symptoms during menses significantly more commonly than healthy women. Smoking, biologic treatment, and previous abdominal operations are risk factors for higher symptomatic burden. Following future validation and research, these results can help in patients’ risk stratification and possibly in risk reduction.
Long-term effectiveness in patients previously treated with cladribine tablets: a real-world analysis of the Italian multiple sclerosis registry (CLARINET-MS)
Authors: Patti Francesco , Visconti Andrea , Capacchione Antonio , Roy Sanjeev , Trojano Maria ,   on behalf of the CLARINET-MS Study Group
Published: June 2020

Background:

The CLARINET-MS study assessed the long-term effectiveness of cladribine tablets by following patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Italy, using data from the Italian MS Registry.

Methods:

Real-world data (RWD) from Italian MS patients who participated in cladribine tablets randomised clinical trials (RCTs; CLARITY, CLARITY Extension, ONWARD or ORACLE-MS) across 17 MS centres were obtained from the Italian MS Registry. RWD were collected during a set observation period, spanning from the last dose of cladribine tablets during the RCT (defined as baseline) to the last visit date in the registry, treatment switch to other disease-modifying drugs, date of last Expanded Disability Status Scale recording or date of the last relapse (whichever occurred last). Time-to-event analysis was completed using the Kaplan–Meier (KM) method. Median duration and associated 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated from the model.

Results:

Time span under observation in the Italian MS Registry was 1–137 (median 80.3) months. In the total Italian patient population ( n = 80), the KM estimates for the probability of being relapse-free at 12, 36 and 60 months after the last dose of cladribine tablets were 84.8%, 66.2% and 57.2%, respectively. The corresponding probability of being progression-free at 60 months after the last dose was 63.7%. The KM estimate for the probability of not initiating another disease-modifying treatment at 60 months after the last dose of cladribine tablets was 28.1%, and the median time-to-treatment change was 32.1 (95% CI 15.5–39.5) months.

Conclusion:

CLARINET-MS provides an indirect measure of the long-term effectiveness of cladribine tablets. Over half of MS patients analysed did not relapse or experience disability progression during 60 months of follow-up from the last dose, suggesting that cladribine tablets remain effective in years 3 and 4 after short courses at the beginning of years 1 and 2.
The role of emotions in building new knowledge and developing young children’s understanding
Authors: Cliffe Johanna , Solvason Carla
Published: June 2020

This article considers the role of emotions in the creation of new knowledge and the development of young children’s minds. Drawing on recent literature relating to emotions and emotional development and recent research into rhizomatic thinking, the authors argue that emotions are more important within cognitive development than is currently recognised. They challenge the traditional propensity for prioritising rationality and essentialism within the construction of new knowledge, claiming this merely promotes hegemonic, discursive and binary pedagogies within early education, leaving little room for originality, difference and diversity. The authors explore the possibility that these dominant discourses impoverish children’s thinking and truncate their development. Furthermore, they suggest that emotions are political and strongly influential within issues pertaining to social justice and (in)equitable practice. They consider how the constant controlling, downplaying or disregarding of emotions can effectively impact on who is silenced and privileged within early years education. Having an awareness of the possible interplay between thinking, cognition, forming new knowledge and emotions provides educators with opportunities to challenge and address issues of power and social justice within practice. The article encourages educators to (re)conceptualise children’s thinking and accommodate alternative readings and multiple pathways to sense and meaning drawn from children’s experiences.
Preulcerous Risk Situation in Diabetic Foot Syndrome: Proposal for a Simple Ulcer Prevention Score
Authors: Kress Stephan , Anderten Helmut , Borck Anja , Freckmann Guido , Heinemann Lutz , Holzmüller Ulrike , Kulzer Bernd , Portele Alexandra , Schnell Oliver , Varlemann Helga , Zemmrich Claudia , Lobmann Ralf
Published: June 2020

Background:

Preulcerous risk situations in patients with diabetes are often undiagnosed and care administered too late. Even with regular medical check-ups and status documentation, foot examinations have not been given enough attention. Diagnosing an individual patients’ risk of developing diabetic foot ulcers may increase vigilance for diabetic foot syndrome (DFS), and the appropriate prevention measures matching the risk involved may prevent the emergence of diabetic ulcers. The classical DFS risk factors are well established and have been extensively covered in the literature; however, there is a lack of efficient screening tools that could be used for a rapid assessment of diabetic foot ulcer risk.

Methods:

A methodical literature search was conducted to assess relevant publications for the preparation of a simple risk score for amputation related to diabetic foot ulcer. We then analyzed the risk factors for predictive value as odds ratios in foot ulcers and/or amputation. We used the available data to deduce a mean value to reflect the authors’ consensus.

Results:

In view of the current literature on the matter, we have developed a semi-quantitative scoring system using just a few items to allow rapid and visual risk assessment for diabetic foot ulcers alongside recommendations for prevention and a sensible follow-up strategy to match the risk.

Conclusion:

This relatively simple score enables rapid risk classification for patients that can ease the way for both physicians and patients in gaining an insight into individual risk situations. The score provides more effective preventative measures for high-risk patients against future complications.
HPLC Fingerprint Combined With Multicomponent Quantification as an Efficient Method for Quality Evaluation of Pharbitidis Semen
Authors: Bao Huiwei , Yang Huailei , Wang Feng , Zhou Kaixuan , Yang Yanan , Xu Yang , Li Lijing
Published: June 2020

Pharbitidis Semen is a traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) with a long history for treatment of edema and fullness, fecal and urinary retention, phlegm and retained fluid, and abdominal pain due to parasitic infestation. Since Pharbitidis Semen is distributed throughout the country, the quality of the medicine from different origins may be varied. Moreover, the reported method could not control the quality comprehensively. In this article, a fingerprint of Pharbitidis Semen has been established based on a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. In addition, the contents of the 2 main effective components were determined simultaneously. The reference HPLC fingerprint was obtained according to the chromatograms of test samples. The similarity values were calculated by the Similarity Evaluation System for Chromatographic Fingerprint of TCM (2004 A edition). Cluster analysis of 10 batches of samples was performed using statistical software (SPSS 20.0). The HPLC fingerprints of 10 batches of Pharbitidis Semen showed 25 well-resolved common peaks in each chromatogram. Two of these peaks were assigned to protocatechuic aldehyde and caffeic acid. As a result, HPLC fingerprint similarities of 10 batches of samples were more than 0.99. Pharbitidis Semen from different habitats could be divided into 3 or 2 groups. The results of cluster analysis showed that samples classified into 1 group were associated with their habitats and breeds. At the same time, quantification results showed that the contents of protocatechuic aldehyde and caffeic acid were in the range of 0.026-0.088 and 0.019-0.053 mg/g−1 respectively. HPLC fingerprint combined with multicomponent quantification and data analysis techniques can be an efficient and useful method for monitoring the quality of Pharbitidis Semen. This study also provides a practical strategy for overall quality evaluation and control of traditional Chinese medicines.
Eating Disorders in Male Athletes
Authors: Eichstadt Madison , Luzier Jessica , Cho Daniel , Weisenmuller Chantel
Published: June 2020

Context:

Eating disorders (EDs) in male athletes are potentially debilitating disorders with significant medical, psychological, and athletic performance consequences.

Evidence Acquisition:

Searches were performed across PubMed, EBSCOhost, and PSYCinfo from 1990 to 2019. Keywords searched were eating disorder, male, athlete, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, muscularity, muscle dysmorphia, and sports. Search results included articles written in the English language and encompassed reviews, empirical studies, and theoretical articles.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Results:

EDs among male athletes may lead to serious negative outcomes, including increased susceptibility to injury, inconsistent performance, problematic recovery, muscle deficiencies, impairment of optimal athletic functioning, and medical, social, and emotional problems. Male athletes with EDs may be more difficult to identify and diagnose for a variety of reasons related to differential presentation of symptoms, secretiveness or shame around behaviors, and sex-related stigma.

Conclusion:

Professionals working closely with athletes are uniquely positioned to identify and screen those who may require further evaluation and treatment.
Future-Orientation (as Trait and State) Promotes Reputation-Protective Choice in Moral Dilemmas
Authors: Vonasch Andrew J. , Sjåstad Hallgeir
Published: June 2020

By neglecting the lifelong importance of having a good reputation, humans can profit in the short run from immoral behavior. Thus, reputation-protection is an intertemporal choice. In three preregistered studies ( N = 1,492 Americans), we tested the hypothesis that future-orientation would increase people’s willingness to protect their reputation from harm. In hypothetical scenarios, people had to choose whether they would pay an immediate cost to prevent a devastating rumor from spreading. Study 1 found a positive correlation between future-orientation and reputation-protection. Study 2 manipulated time perspective experimentally and found that future focus (vs. present focus) had a positive and causal effect on reputation-protection. Study 3 was a high-powered replication, showing that the effect of future focus on reputation-protective choice was robust and mediated by reputational concern. In line with common advice around the world of protecting one’s reputation from harm, one way people may achieve that goal is to think about the future before acting.
Containing COVID-19 in China: AI and the robotic restructuring of future cities
Authors: Chen Bei , Marvin Simon , While Aidan
Published: June 2020

COVID-19 has generated interest in the potential of urban robotics and automation to manage and police physical distancing and quarantine. This commentary examines the intersection between COVID-19 management strategies and the technological affordances of robotics, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence (AI) in urban pandemic control. Examples from China illustrate the possibilities for urban robotics and automation in a new era of urban bio-(in)security.
A case of Russell body gastritis with multifocal lesions
Authors: Umakoshi Michinobu , Miyabe Ken , Ishii Hajime , Kudo-Asabe Yukitsugu , Ito Yukinobu , Yoshida Makoto , Maeda Daichi , Sageshima Masato , Goto Akiteru
Published: June 2020

Russell body gastritis is an extremely rare gastritis characterized by abundant infiltration of plasma cells with Russell body and eccentric nuclei, known as Mott cells. An 81-year-old Japanese woman with Helicobacter pylori and hepatitis C virus infection complaining of abdominal discomfort underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which detected an elevated lesion 2 cm in diameter at the anterior wall of the gastric body. A histological examination of the lesion revealed the infiltration of numerous Mott cells with an abundant eosinophilic crystal structure and eccentric nuclei in the lamina propria, resulting in a pathological diagnosis of Russell body gastritis. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was performed subsequently. The histological findings of the resected specimen were compatible with those of Russell body gastritis. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy performed 2 months after endoscopic submucosal dissection revealed the presence of new multiple flat elevated lesions in the antrum up to 1 cm in diameter, distant from the site of endoscopic submucosal dissection. A histological examination revealed a few Mott cells in the biopsy specimens taken from the new lesions. In turn, H. pylori eradication therapy was performed 1 month after the detection of the new lesions. One year after the eradication therapy, follow-up upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed that multiple lesions had almost disappeared, and the histological examination of the gastric biopsy specimens confirmed the disappearance of Mott cells. We herein report a case of Russell body gastritis in which multifocal lesions were observed after endoscopic submucosal dissection, and which was subsequently treated by H. pylori eradication therapy.
Dorsal midline incision: A versatile technique for correction of meatal stenosis during hypospadias repair
Authors: Yadav Sher , Bamaniya Manoj , Agarwal Vibhore , Tomar Vinay , Gupta Abhimanyu , Kumawat Ghanshyam
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

To our knowledge, the incidence of congenital meatal abnormalities associated with hypospadias varies from 9.6% to 31%, of which meatal stenosis is the most common, affecting 9.1–16.7% of patients. Traditionally, meatal stenosis has been dealt with by meatal dilatation, although ventral meatotomy until the normal urethra is encountered has also been used. Here, we report the outcome of a technique where, during hypospadias repair, a dorsal midline incision was performed instead of a ventral urethral incision, starting at the narrow meatus and subsequently extending proximally to treat the meatal stenosis.

Methods:

Patients having distal hypospadias with meatal stenosis were included in this study. In this technique, a dorsal midline incision was extended until normal calibre urethra was encountered. Patients with chordee >15°, proximal hypospadias, redo cases, glans width <14 mm, where separation of the skin from the underlying urethra was not possible and with a follow-up of less than three months were excluded from the study. A total of 73 patients were operated on using this technique. Results were assessed with regards to urethrocutaneous fistula (UCF) and stricture formation.

Results:

Five (6.85%) patients developed UCF: one (5%) in the subcoronal group, two (8.0%) in the distal penile group and two (14.3%) in the mid-penile hypospadias group. Postoperatively, only one patient had meatal stenosis.

Conclusion:

We think hypospadiac meatal stenosis is best treated by a dorsal midline incision, as it does not lead to a proximal shift of the meatus, and this defect heals by re-epithelisation without significant scarring, which in turn decreases the possibility of UCF. That is why the fistula rate in our study was 6.85%, which is lower than in various published series.
When Social Media Get Political: How Perceptions of Open-Mindedness Influence Political Expression on Facebook
Authors: Lee Slgi S. , Lane Daniel S. , Kwak Nojin
Published: June 2020

The use of social media for developing and maintaining relationships can offer a gateway for users to open up and express their political views. Building on previous literature on the “spillover effect” in which relational use of social media motivates political expression, this study examines the circumstances under which the “spillover” effect is more likely to occur. To do so, we measured respondents’ (a) dialogic openness and (b) perception of other users’ political open-mindedness to examine how the two perceptions condition the spillover process on social media. Analyzing original panel survey data of Facebook users in the United States, we found that relational use of social media was positively associated with political expression on Facebook over time. Furthermore, there was suggestive evidence that this relationship was more likely to exist among individuals who perceive (a) themselves as dialogically open and (b) the platform as closed-minded and that the two perceptions may interact to condition the spillover effect. Possible explanations for how these self- and other-perceptions jointly shape the spillover process are discussed.
Machine Vision and Social Media Images: Why Hashtags Matter
Authors: Geboers Marloes Annette , Van De Wiele Chad Thomas
Published: June 2020

Studying images in social media poses specific methodological challenges, which in turn have directed scholarly attention toward the computational interpretation of visual data. When analyzing large numbers of images, both traditional content analysis as well as cultural analytics have proven valuable. However, these techniques do not take into account the contextualization of images within a socio-technical environment. As the meaning of social media images is co-created by online publics, bound through networked practices, these visuals should be analyzed on the level of their networked contextualization. Although machine vision is increasingly adept at recognizing faces and features, its performance in grasping the meaning of social media images remains limited. Combining automated analyses of images with platform data opens up the possibility to study images in the context of their resonance within and across online discursive spaces. This article explores the capacities of hashtags and retweet counts to complement the automated assessment of social media images, doing justice to both the visual elements of an image and the contextual elements encoded through the hashtag practices of networked publics.
Characterization of lymphocyte subsets in ascitic fluid and peripheral blood of decompensated cirrhotic patients with chronic hepatitis C and alcoholic liver disease: A pivotal study
Authors: Romanelli Roberto Giulio , Vitiello Gianfranco , Gitto Stefano , Giudizi Maria Grazia , Biagiotti Roberta , Carraresi Alessia , Vizzutti Francesco , Laffi Giacomo , Almerigogna Fabio
Published: June 2020

Hepatitis C virus and alcoholic liver disease are major causes of chronic liver diseases worldwide. Little is known about differences between chronic hepatitis C and alcoholic liver disease in terms of lymphocytes’ sub-population. Aim of the present study was to compare the sub-populations of lymphocytes in both ascitic compartment and peripheral blood in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis due to chronic hepatitis C and alcoholic liver disease. Patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis C virus or alcoholic liver disease evaluated from April 2014 to October 2016 were enrolled. Whole blood and ascitic fluid samples were stained with monoclonal antibodies specific for human TCRɑβ, TCRɣδ, CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19, CCR6, CD16, CD56, CD25, HLA-DR, Vɑ24. Sixteen patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis were recruited (9 with hepatitis C virus and 7 with alcoholic liver disease). In ascitic fluid, the percentage of both CD3+CD56− and CD3+CD56+iNKT cells resulted higher in hepatitis C virus patients than in alcoholic liver disease patients (1.82 ± 0.35% vs 0.70 ± 0.42% (p < 0.001) and 1.42 ± 0.35% vs 0.50 ± 0.30% (p < 0.001), respectively). Conversely, in peripheral blood samples, both CD3+CD56− and CD3+CD56+iNKT cells resulted significantly higher in alcoholic liver disease than in hepatitis C virus patients (4.70 ± 2.69% vs 1.50 ± 1.21% (p < 0.01) and 3.10 ± 1.76% vs 1.00 ± 0.70% (p < 0.01), respectively). Both elevation of iNKT cells in ascitic fluid and reduction in peripheral blood registered in hepatitis C virus but not in alcoholic liver disease patients might be considered indirect signals of tissutal translocation. In conclusion, we described relevant differences between the two groups. Alcoholic liver disease patients displayed lower number of CD3+CD4+ cells and a higher percentage of CD3−CD16+, Vα24+CD3+CD56− and Vα24+CD3+CD56+iNKT cells in ascitic fluid than hepatitis C virus positive subjects. Further studies might analyze the role of immune cells in the vulnerability toward infections and detect potential targets for new treatments especially for alcoholic liver disease patients.
Internet-based survey of the perceptions of surgical scars of Japanese patients
Authors: Kohta Masushi , Nishigaki Chihiro
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

The adverse aesthetic effects of post-surgical scars frequently impose a psychological burden on patients. We conducted an Internet-based questionnaire survey of Japanese individuals to explore patient satisfaction with respect to surgical scars and to identify the factors that affect their interest and experience of scar care.

Method:

A cross-sectional study was conducted for the previous year on patients who had undergone the following surgeries: gastrointestinal; orthopaedic; obstetric; gynaecological; and plastic. The questionnaire included: (1) measures of participant characteristics; (2) measures of interest, experience and satisfaction with scar care; (3) measures of current and desired scar condition; and (4) measures of communication with physicians or nurses.

Results:

A total of 214 participants were enrolled. Of these, only 90 individuals had experienced any treatment or self-care, and only 30 were satisfied with their experience. We found a significant gap between the current and desired thickness and colour of the scar ( P < 0.01). On logistic regression analysis, scars located at a visible site and size of the scar were significant factors that affected the interest and experience of scar care. Only 40% of participants answered that their physician or nurse adequately understands their concerns pertaining to the scar condition.

Conclusion:

Only a small proportion of individuals were satisfied with their experience of scar care. Additional research in following areas is required: (1) mutual communication between patients and medical providers; and (2) development of a new care programme for the management of scars.
POSSUM and P-POSSUM Scoring in Hip Fracture Mortalities
Authors: Johns William L. , Strong Benjamin , Kates Stephen , Patel Nirav K.
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Physiological and Operative Severity Score for the enUmeration of Mortality and Morbidity (POSSUM) and Portsmouth POSSUM (P-POSSUM) are general surgical tools used to efficiently assess mortality and morbidity risk. Data suggest that these tools can be used in hip fracture patients to predict morbidity and mortality; however, it is unclear what score indicates a significant risk on a case-by-case basis. We examined the POSSUM and P-POSSUM scores in a group of hip fracture mortalities in order to assess their accuracy in identification of similar high-risk patients.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective analysis of all consecutive mortalities in hip fracture patients at a single tertiary care center over 2 years was performed. Patient medical records were examined for baseline demographics, fracture characteristics, surgical interventions, and cause of death. Twelve physiological and 6 operative variables were used to retrospectively calculate POSSUM and P-POSSUM scores at the time of injury.

Results:

Forty-seven hip fracture mortalities were reviewed. Median patient age was 88 years (range: 56-99). Overall, 68.1% (32) underwent surgical intervention. Mean predicted POSSUM morbidity and mortality rates were 73.9% (28%-99%) and 31.1% (5%-83%), respectively. The mean predicted P-POSSUM mortality rate was 26.4% (1%-91%) and 53.2% (25) had a P-POSSUM predicted mortality of >20%. Subgroup analysis demonstrated poor agreement between predicted mortality and observed mortality rate for POSSUM in operative (χ2 = 127.5, P < .00001) and nonoperative cohorts (χ2 = 14.6, P < .00001), in addition to P-POSSUM operative (χ2 = 101.9, P < .00001) and nonoperative (χ2 = 11.9, P < .00001) scoring.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Hip fracture patients are at significant risk of both morbidity and mortality. A reliable, replicable, and accurate tool to represent the expected risk of such complications could help facilitate clinical decision-making to determine the optimal level of care. Screening tools such as POSSUM and P-POSSUM have limitations in accurately identifying high-risk hip fracture patients.
Moving From an Implicit to an Explicit Approach of Life Skills Development and Transfer: The Case of Surfing in Schools
Authors: Santos Fernando , Bean Corliss , Azevedo Nuno , Cardoso António , Pereira Paulo , Cruz Hugo
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this article is to provide insight on a partnership between Matosinhos City Hall that coordinates educational programs including physical education and the School of Higher Education of Porto. For the past 2 years, the institutions have worked together to develop a local curriculum for physical education teachers to foster life skills development and transfer in their students. In this article, we provide an overview about (a) how the partnership was developed, (b) how establishing fundamental pedagogical components provided the platform for later explicit life skills teaching, (c) the facilitators and barriers that emerged from these efforts, and (d) plans to integrate an explicit approach to sport-based life skills development and transfer.
Scalp Metastasis as the First Presentation of an Underlying Aggressive Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Ramachandran Preethi , Boyapati Lakshmi , Joseph Gardith
Published: June 2020

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, an extremely aggressive cancer, has high metastatic potential. Cutaneous metastasis is very uncommon, representing only <10% of all cases, presenting mostly around the umbilical region. Non-umbilical metastasis is even rarer, and the significance remains unknown. In this article, we describe a case of a 76-year-old gentleman who initially presented with an asymptomatic scalp lesion, which on biopsy revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma of pancreatic origin. Detailed workup revealed extremely high tumor burden with metastases involving muscles, subcutaneous tissues, bone, lung, spleen, liver, and colon. Cutaneous involvement in pancreatic cancer represents poor survival with widespread dissemination of the disease. The involvement of some sites and not others and the extreme degree of aggressiveness might reflect subgroups of this cancer with different molecular biology. Identifying these groups may have utility in determining prognosis and stratifying treatment for patients. This will hopefully translate into better diagnostic tests and therapies in the near future.
Building efficacy beliefs through team task engagement and past task performance in contemporary teams
Authors: Rodríguez-Sánchez Alma Mª , Hakanen Jari , Salanova Marisa
Published: June 2020

It is important for organizations to identify the drivers for effective collaboration in contemporary teams, such as self-managed ad hoc teams. Therefore, we aimed to investigate (1) the influence of team task engagement and mastery experiences on collective efficacy beliefs and (2) the temporal relationship between team task engagement and task performance over time. We postulate that to build collective efficacy in contemporary teams over time, it is necessary to enhance positive emotional states (i.e., team task engagement) and mastery experiences (teams’ past task performance). The study adopted a three-wave longitudinal design in which 575 individuals nested within 112 self-managed ad hoc teams participated in a decision-making task. Results showed that team task engagement and past task performance positively predicted future collective efficacy. Moreover, team task engagement positively predicted teams’ task performance over time. This study contributes to the understanding of the antecedents of team effectiveness, specifically in contemporary teams.

JEL CLASSIFICATION: C92; J24; O15
Politicians in disguise and financial experts on the board: Evidence from Spanish cajas
Authors: de Andres Pablo , Garcia-Rodriguez Inigo , Romero-Merino M. Elena , Santamaria-Mariscal Marcos
Published: June 2020

This study offers insight into the role of board politicization on the Spanish cajas’ performance from a dual perspective. First, we analyze the effect of a new kind of political directors who occupy board seats as representatives of stakeholders outside the public administrations while maintaining a political affiliation. We call these “hidden” political directors as politicians in disguise. Second, we analyze how political interests can prevent directors with financial expertise from applying their knowledge to improve cajas’ performance. Using a sample of hand-collected data from 45 Spanish cajas, we find that politicians in disguise destroy value in the caja and that politically motivated financial experts on the board do not benefit cajas’ performance.

JEL CLASSIFICATION: G34, G21, G28
Attempts to Limit Censoring in Measures of Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Nguyen Cindy , Kortlever Joost T P , Gonzalez Amanda I , Ring David , Brown Laura E , Somogyi Jason R
Published: June 2020

Background:

Measures of patient satisfaction are increasingly used to measure patient experience. Most satisfaction measures have notable ceiling effects, which limits our ability to learn from variation among relatively satisfied patients. This study tested a variety of single-question satisfaction measures for their mean overall score, ceiling and floor effect, and data distribution. In addition, we assessed the correlation between satisfaction and psychological factors and assessed how the various methods for measuring satisfaction affected net promoter scores (NPSs).

Methodology:

A total of 212 patients visiting orthopedic offices were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial. Patients were randomized to 1 of 5 newly designed, single-question satisfaction scales: (a) a helpfulness 11-point ordinal scale from 0 to 10, (b) a helpfulness ordinal 11-point scale from 0 to 5 (ie, with 1.5, 2.5, etc), (c) a helpfulness 100-point slider, (d) a satisfaction 11-point ordinal scale from 0 to 10, and (e) a willingness to recommend 11-point ordinal scale from 0 to 10. Additionally, patients completed the 2-item Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ-2), 5-item Short Health Anxiety Inventory (SHAI-5) Scale, and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Depression. We assessed mean and median score, ceiling and floor effect, and skewness and kurtosis for each scale. Spearman’s correlation tests were used to test correlations between satisfaction and psychological status. Finally, we assessed the NPS for the various scales.

Results:

Ceiling effects ranged from 29% to 68%. The 11-point ordinal helpfulness scale from 0 to 10 had the least ceiling effect (29%). All of the scales were asymmetrically distributed, with the 11-point ordinal scale from 0 to 5 having the most Gaussian distribution (skew = 0.64 and kurtosis = 2.3). Satisfaction scores did not correlate with psychological factors: PSEQ-2 ( r = 0.04; P = .57), SHAI-5 ( r = 0.01; P = .93), and PROMIS Depression ( r = −0.04; P = .61). Net promoter scores varied substantially by scale design, with higher scores corresponding with greater ceiling effects.

Conclusions:

Variations in scale types, text anchors, and lead-in statements do not eliminate the ceiling effect of single-question measures of satisfaction with a visit to an orthopedic specialist. Further studies might test other scale designs and labels.

Level of Evidence:

Diagnostic; Level II
Are There Nonproselytizing Methods for Planting New Churches in Muslim Lands?
Authors: Giordano Christian
Published: June 2020

This article offers an alternative to Christian witness and development in Muslim-majority nations. It reviews twelve Ibero-American projects in such nations in which believers have found ways to (1) live out their faith in a transparent but nonthreatening way, (2) communicate a holistic gospel through various projects, (3) evangelize in a manner that is open, contextualized, and nonproselytizing, (4) contribute to social holistic transformation, and (5) encourage local expressions of Christian churches.
Spontaneous systolic blood pressure drop early after mechanical thrombectomy predicts dramatic neurological recovery in ischaemic stroke patients
Authors: Carvalho Dias Mariana , Gabriel Denis , Saraiva Marlene , Campos Daniel , Requena Manuel , García-Tornel Álvaro , Muchada Marian , Boned Sandra , Rodriguez-Luna David , Rodriguez-Villatoro Noelia , Pagola Jorge , Juega Jesus , Deck Matías , Ribo Marc , Tomasello Alejandro , Molina Carlos A , Rubiera Marta
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Spontaneous blood pressure drop within the first 24 h has been reported following arterial recanalisation in ischaemic stroke patients. We aimed to assess if spontaneous blood pressure drop within the first hour after mechanical thrombectomy is a marker of early neurological recovery.

Patients and methods

Retrospective observational single-centre study including ischaemic stroke patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy. Blood pressure parameters from admission, mechanical thrombectomy start, mechanical thrombectomy end and hourly within 24 h after mechanical thrombectomy were reviewed. Primary outcome was early dramatic neurological recovery (8-point-reduction in NIHSS or NIHSS ≤ 2 at 24 h). Secondary outcome was functional independence at 90 days (mRankin 0–2).

Results

We included 458 patients in our analysis. Two-hundred (43.7%) patients achieved dramatic neurological recovery following mechanical thrombectomy. One hour after mechanical thrombectomy end, median systolic blood pressure was significantly different between outcome groups (129 vs. 138 mmHg, p = 0.005) and a higher drop in median systolic blood pressure was seen in the dramatic neurological recovery group (15 vs. 9 mmHg). Optimal cut-off for predicting dramatic neurological recovery was a systolic blood pressure drop of 10.5 mmHg (sensitivity 0.54, specificity 0.55, AUC 0.55). On multivariate analysis, spontaneous systolic blood pressure drop was associated with higher odds of achieving dramatic neurological recovery (OR for 10 mmHg blood pressure drop 1.14, 95% CI 1.01–1.29, p = 0.04). No significative association between any blood pressure parameter drop and functional independence at 90 days was found.

Discussion

We hypothesised that spontaneous systolic blood pressure drop is a marker of successful reperfusion and, therefore, a marker of improvement of cerebral autoregulation due to the reduced final ischaemic core.

Conclusion

Spontaneous systolic blood pressure drop after mechanical thrombectomy is an early predictor of dramatic neurological recovery.
Leadership Stress and Coaching Implications
Authors: Nair R. R. , Bhaduri Nilanjana
Published: June 2020

Stress in leadership roles has been dramatically increasing over the years. The constant challenge to address VUCA obstacles, while steering the ship to safer shores, tends to take a toll on the physical and emotional well-being of a leader. This article deep dives into some of the commonly cited causes of leadership stress and explores potential coaching journeys that could help the person to identify self-renewal behaviours, thereby sustaining high performance.
Laboratory and clinical management of leukocytospermia and hematospermia: a review
Authors: Khodamoradi Kajal , Kuchakulla Manish , Narasimman Manish , Khosravizadeh Zahra , Ali Aleena , Brackett Nancy , Ibrahim Emad , Ramasamy Ranjith
Published: June 2020

Leukocytospermia and hematospermia are defined as the presence of abnormally high white blood cell and red blood cell concentration in the semen, respectively. Numerous etiologies and various implications on fertility have been identified. In a small proportion of men, the presence of white blood cells or red blood cells can adversely affect sperm quality by the production of reactive oxygen species. Several methods have been used to assess the presence of white blood cells and red blood cells in samples, such as identification of round cells, immunohistochemical staining using monoclonal antibodies, the Endtz test, the peroxidase test, and flow cytometry or microscopy. In addition, techniques have been identified to separate sperm samples from white blood cells and red blood cells for cryopreservation to improve outcomes in assisted reproductive technology. In this review, laboratory and clinical management of leukocytospermia and hematospermia are discussed. Currently available diagnostic methods and treatment options are outlined, and available optimal cryopreservation techniques for samples with white blood cells or red blood cells are summarized.
Assessment of the seismic safety of school buildings in Mexico: A first look
Authors: Alcocer Sergio M , Arce José C , Murià-Vila David , Fernández-Sola Luciano R , Guardia Daniel A
Published: June 2020

For the first time in Mexico, a comprehensive data gathering and analysis project on the seismic performance of school buildings in the aftermath of the 2017 earthquakes was developed. Aimed at supporting the planning and decision-making of the Mexican government’s reconstruction program, school performance was observed and measured in the field. To further evaluate building performance, numerical modeling of archetypical buildings was carried out. Calculated performance was consistent with observed structural damage. Numerical analysis indicated that pre-1985 masonry and concrete buildings are more likely to exhibit damage that could compromise the structural stability. In contrast, recent structures are very likely to attain the immediate occupancy (IO) performance level that is implicitly assumed in school design. Studies indicated that rehabilitated school buildings through wall jacketing in masonry buildings and by adding new concrete shear walls and masonry infills to concrete structures are likely to comply with IO. From the lessons learned, policy, technical, implementation, and sustainability and outreach recommendations are proposed to implement a multiannual, systematic, incremental, and integral strategy for reducing earthquake risk of school buildings in Mexico.
Microbiome-intestine cross talk during acute graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Rafei Hind , Jenq Robert R.
Published: June 2020

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) offers cure for a variety of conditions, in particular, but not limited to, hematologic malignancies. However, it can be associated with life-threatening complications, including graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and infections, which are factors limiting its widespread use. Technical advances in the field of microbiome research have allowed for a better understanding of the microbial flora of the human intestine, as well as dissection of their interactions with the host immune system in allo-SCT and posttransplant complications. There is growing evidence that the commensal microbiome is frequently dysregulated following allo-SCT and that this dysbiosis can predispose to adverse clinical outcomes, especially including acute intestinal GVHD and reduced overall survival. In this review, we discuss the interactions between the microbiome and the components of the immune system that play a major role in the pathways leading to the inflammatory state of acute intestinal GVHD. We also discuss the microbiome-centered strategies that have been devised or are actively being investigated to improve the outcomes of allo-SCT patients in regard to acute intestinal GVHD.