bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infiltrating Bladder Cancer: Chemotherapy
Authors: Azzarello G. , Pappagallo G.L. , Vinante O.
Published: October 2018

Radical cystectomy associated with bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy is the elective treatment for infiltrating urothelial carcinoma. Although it may be curative, about 50% of patients have recurrences after 2 years, generally at a systemic level. Pelvic node recurrence, however, accounts for a certain rate of mortality. With regard to prognosis, the most important factor for survival is the stage, with overall survival at 5 years varying from 60–80% for pT2 lesions down to 0–18% for pT4 lesions and for patients with positive lymph nodes from 4 to 30%. Adjuvant and neo-adjuvant chemotherapy programmes have therefore been developed in an attempt to improve the percentages of recurrences and of overall survival and perhaps later to increase the possibilities of organ preservation. Chemotherapeutic indications in metastatic and locally advanced disease are therefore reviewed.
Radiotherapy in Treating Bladder Cancer
Authors: Pizzi G.
Published: October 2018

The author reports his experience in the Radiotherapy Unit of the Hospital of Mestre with regard to 270 cases of infiltrating bladder cancer treated with just RT or in combination with chemotherapy. The indication for radiotherapy is examined according to the stage of the disease, taking into account the toxic effects following such treatment. In conclusion the author recommends closer cooperation between specialisations to provide a more effective and tolerable treatment of the disease.
Predictive Value of History and Clinical Examination in Diagnosing Female Stress Incontinence
Authors: Moretti M. , Cichero A. , Malcangi B. , Pittaluga P. , Varaldo M.
Published: October 2018

History, clinical examination, imaging and urodynamics are useful steps in diagnosing female stress urinary incontinence; there is however no single specific test for grading and staging incontinence. We studied 75 patients with stress urinary incontinence to evaluate the predictive value of history and clinical examination in diagnosis, compared to imaging and urodynamics. We considered parity, concurrent pathologies and therapies or surgery, 24-hour PAD-test, Q-tip test and pubo-coccigeal test versus translabial introital ultrasonography and urodynamics. Patients were divided into one group with cysto-rectocele and another without prolapse; we found no meaningful correlations except for 7 patients with sphincter damage. In the other women, history and clinical examination may only be helpful to choose proper diagnostic tools.
Our Experience with Lymphomas of the Testis
Authors: Pappalettera F. , Rotondo L , Pellegrino A.
Published: October 2018

Three cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) of the testis observed between 1980 and 1997 are described. The authors confirm that this disease is somewhat uncommon in the elderly and in their case reports represents only 5% of all testis tumours. The related problems are analysed and in particular whether this kind of tumour can be considered as primitive or secondary neoplasm.
Bacteriuria in Aids Vs. Urological Patients: Similarities and Differences
Authors: Pizzorno R. , Dodi F. , De Mare M. , Diacomanoli G. , Capuzzo R. , Rizzo F. , Carmignani G.
Published: October 2018

The risk of urinary infection is more frequent in AIDS-patients than in normal subjects; it is not yet known if the risk is higher in urological patients. We have studied 394 urine cultures of 242 AIDS-patients (CD4 + < 200 cu. mm), aged from 25 to 52 years (mean=35.1; SD=4.72). Results were analyzed and statistically compared with those obtained in similar studies carried out on AIDS and urological patients. On the whole, 52 urine cultures (13.1%) were positive. Etiology was mainly supported by E. faecalis (Gram-positive) and E. coli (Gram-negative). AIDS patients, without urinary catheter, show a higher risk of urinary infection than normal subjects (P<0.02) but lower than urological patients (P=0.000). An increase in the isolation of Gram-positive bacteria and mycetes in comparison with Gram-negative (already observed in urological patients) has been confirmed. Bacteria isolated in AIDS patients showed variations in sensitivity to usual antibiotics.
The Effects of Streptokinase used Intravesically on the Urothelium
Authors: Şahin H. , Yilmaz F. , Deniz M. , Akay A.F. , Bircan M.K. , Hatipoğlu S.
Published: October 2018

The aim of this experimental study has been to research the effects of streptokinase instillation on the urothelium. Fifteen mature male New Zealand rabbits were divided into 4 experimental groups and saline (Group 1) or streptokinase (Group 2–4) were instilled (3 ml) into the bladder in different doses for 30 minutes. The rabbits were euthanized at 30 days after intravesical instillation and cystectomy was performed. All bladders were evaluated macroscopically and histologically under light microscopy. It has been established that streptokinase has no harmful effect on the urothelium such as inflammation, fibrosis, mucosal atypia and/or thickness in the bladder wall. As a result, streptokinase instillation into the bladder to resolve clotting is a safe treatment method and seems to be a satisfactory alternative to other methods.
Stenosis of Uretero-Intestinal Anastomoses. Our Experience
Authors: Simonato A. , Bonini F. , Pizzorno R. , Galli S. , Romagnoli A. , Carmignani G.
Published: October 2018

The main aim of every urinary diversion is to preserve the morphological and functional integrity of the upper urinary tracts. Stenosis of the uretero-intestinal anastomosis is one of the most dreaded complications. This alone may jeopardise the success of the operation and the quality of life that remains for the patient.

Material and methods

From November ‘94 to December ‘97,109 patients (average age 68 years, range 48–79) underwent radical cystectomy with urinary diversion (53 VIP, 42 Bricker, 4 Reddy2, 3 USS, 2 Studer, 1 Mainz1, 1 Mainz2, 2 Indiana, 1 Camey2). 216 anti-reflux u-i anastomoses were created (93 Le Duc, 6 Leadbetter, 4 Goodwin, 2 Split-cuff, 2 Mainz, 2 Ghoneim) and 107 direct anastomoses (41 Nesbit, 35 Wallace1, 13 Bricker, 12 Polsino, 6 Wallace2).

Results

18/216 (8.3%) stenoses occurred (none secondary to neoplastic recurrence): 11/109 (10%) in u-i anastomoses made with the anti-reflux technique (6 Le Duc, 2 Ghoneim, 2 Mainz, 1 Leadbetter) and 7/107 (6.5%) with direct implantation (3 Nesbit, 2 Polsino, 2 Wallace1). Stenoses occurred in 9 VAP, 3 Bricker, 2 Reddy2 (bilateral in 4 patients).

Conclusions

The high number of variants of uretero-intestinal anastomosis techniques demonstrates that there is as yet no commonly accepted technique, every surgeon performing the procedure that in his experience produces the best results with the fewest complications. The choice of type of anastomosis should take into account the type of urinary diversion with its urodynamic characteristics, searching as far as possible to create anti-reflux mechanisms in the orthotopic diversions. The common principles of surgical technique remain valid, i.e. to respect the anatomical structure, to avoid stretching or curving of the ureter, to create leak-proof anastomoses.
Surgery for Peyronie'S Disease: Comparison of Results
Authors: Traverso P. , Simonato A. , Galli S. , Romagnoli A. , Corbu C. , De Rose A.F. , Arancio M. , Naselli A. , Carmignani G.
Published: October 2018

Many, varied techniques have been used over the years in the surgical treatment of Induratio Penis Plastica (IPP). From December 1994 to March 1998, 83 patients were operated for IPP and assessed with an average follow-up of 20 months (range 2–24). Results were analysed, the overall assessment taking into consideration not only the objective clinical finding by the doctor, but also the degree of satisfaction expressed by patients. The patients were given a subjective self-assessment test considering the pre and post-operative changes in the following parameters: rigidity, curvature, glandular sensitivity, length of penis and satisfaction with general result. Another doctor in the department (not the operator) clinically assessed the same parameters during follow-up. Results showed that the above parameters were more favourable in patients operated for plaque and incision of the same than in those who had undergone removal. The subjective version of almost all patients and the clinical follow-up assessment were, however, in disagreement with these results. Moreover, only 60% of patients reported that they were generally satisfied. The subjective and objective assessment by the patients and doctor respectively are not always in agreement, highlighting the fact that patient satisfaction is sometimes unrelated to the clinical evaluation of “success” of the surgical option. In IPP therapy, results for the patient would seem to be better when less aggressive surgery is carried out on the plaque as described, i.e. with minimum dissection of the anatomical structures of the penis.
Correlation between F/T-Psa and Echographically-Assessed Prostate Weight in the Diagnosis of Prostatic Cancer
Authors: Chiono L. , Lavagna M. , Schenone M. , Rovida S. , Giberti C.
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to check whether the combination of clinical-laboratory parameters enables better identification of patients with probable prostate cancer who should undergo echo-guided biopsy, thereby reducing the number of biopsies carried out.

Patients and methods

100 consecutive patients were recruited (mean age 68.2 ± SD 6.7) all with high PSA (mean: 9.3 ± SD 4.3 ng/ml), plus positive TR ultrasound in 85 patients and positive ER in 41 patients referred to our centre for echo-guided prostatic biopsy. Before the biopsy, all patients were sampled to asses the F/T-PSA value with the Immunolite method. Each patient underwent 6–8 echo-guided transrectal biopsies using the Tru-cut 18 G automatic gun. Prostatic weight was calculated echographically (A x B x C x 0.5236). In all, 122 biopsies were carried out in these 100 patients (mean: 1.22 ± SD 0.56). Data was statistically assessed with multiple and logistic regression with variables: age, T-PSA, F-PSA, F/T-PSA, ECT, ER, prostatic weight, number of biopsies per patient. From this analysis, F/T-PSA and prostatic weight proved to be correlated: further multiple regression analysis was carried out on these parameters.

Results

40 cases of prostate cancer were identified and 60 cases of BHP. The regression between the variable that depends on the histological result and the independent variables of F/T-PSA and prostatic weight was extremely significant (p < 0.001). In the light of the results, the following formula was worked out y = 1.077 - (0.025 x F/T - PSA) - (0.008 x prostatic weight). This formula has produced results between 0.04 and 0.9. With a cut-off value of 0.4, 33 prostate cancers were recognised out of 40 and 47 BHP out of 60. Sensitivity was 83%, specificity 78% and efficiency 80%.

Conclusions

F/T-PSA assessment and echographically determined prostatic weight enables a sufficiently sensitive identification to be made of prostate cancer patients who should definitely undergo a biopsy. It is also possible to select those who should be subject to strict follow-up, with consequent reduction (approx 50%) in the number of potential biopsies.
Prostate Cancer: Pathological Significance in 12 Cases Subjected to Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Borgonovo G. , Belussi D. , Micheli E. , Deiana G. , Sironi D. , Tanello M. , Cunico S. Cosciani , Lembo A.
Published: October 2018

We analysed 12 radical prostatectomy specimens of patients with T1c prostatic cancer in order to evaluate clinical, bioptical and pathological features. Of the tumours, 8/12 (67%) were locally advanced, with Gleason score of 6 or 7. The majority of our stage T1c tumours were significant and required radical treatment.
ESWL in Anomalous Kidneys: Evaluating the Efficacy
Authors: Tanello M. , Sironi D. , Frego E. , Borgonovo G. , Cunico S. Cosciani
Published: October 2018

46 patients (24 male and 22 female; average age 51) were evaluated at our clinic from June ‘91 to December ‘96 for lithiasis in anomalous kidneys. 19 patients presented horse-shoe kidneys, 3 pelvic ectopic kidneys and 24 a duplex system. A Double-J stent was placed before treatment in 4 patients (9%); 5 subjects (10.8%) needed nephrostomy post-ESWL because of urinary obstruction determined by stein-strasse. 28 patients (60.9%) were stone-free after a single session of ESWL, while 11 (23.9%) presented clinically insignificant residual fragments. 2 patients (2.2%) did not show any sign of stone disintegration. ESWL may be used as primary treatment of urolithiasis in many anomalous kidneys without any associated obstruction that needs surgery.
The Use of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (Eswl) in Solitary Kidney Our Experience
Authors: Sironi D. , Tanello M. , Frego E. , Borgonovo G. , Simeone C. , Lembo A. , Clinico S. Cosciani
Published: October 2018

Additional endourologic procedures before ESWL remain controversial for patients with lithiasis in solitary kidneys. The authors report their experience on 31 patients treated with a Dornier MFL 5000 lithotriptor. They conclude that if there is no ureteral obstruction prior to ESWL, the majority of patients with stone size smaller than 20 mm do not need pre or post operation manipulation.
Urogenital Trauma. Our Experience
Authors: Meneguolo M. , D'incà G. , Guatelli S. , Drei G.N. , Guazzieri S.
Published: October 2018

The authors describe their experience over 10 years regarding the treatment of 131 patients with injury to their urogenital organs. The work highlights the different diagnostic and therapeutic approach between patients with multiple injuries and those with just one. Conclusions are given after reviewing the type of injuries and relevant treatment.
Shock Wave Treatment of Peyronie'S Disease: Our Experience
Authors: Luciano M. , Bondavalli C. , Dall'Oglio B. , Schiavon L. , Bernardini P. , Parma A.
Published: October 2018

From September 1997 to April 1998, 40 patients with induratio penis plastica were treated with extracorporeal shock waves (ESWT). This work compares our results with those of the main Italian centres that first used this method. The aim of this study is to assess the efficiency of the treatment in the period before the main guidelines were laid down: guidelines which from now on should standardise indications and methods of application whilst optimising results.
The 2014 Ontario Child Health Study Emotional Behavioural Scales (OCHS-EBS) Part I: A Checklist for Dimensional Measurement of SelectedDSM-5Disorders
Authors: Duncan Laura , Georgiades Katholiki , Wang Li , Comeau Jinette , Ferro Mark A. , Van Lieshout Ryan J. , Szatmari Peter , Bennett Kathryn , MacMillan Harriet L. , Lipman Ellen L. , Janus Magdalena , Kata Anna , Boyle Michael H.
Published: October 2018

Objectives:

To describe the development and psychometric properties of the 2014 Ontario Child Health Study Emotional Behavioural Scales (OCHS-EBS) for dimensional measurement of 7 disorders based on criteria from the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ( DSM-5).

Methods:

Scale items were selected by agreement among 19 child psychologists and psychiatrists rating the correspondence between item descriptions and DSM-5 symptoms. Psychometric evaluation of the item properties and parent/caregiver and youth scales came from a general population study of 10,802 children and youth aged 4 to 17 years in 6537 families. Test-retest reliability data were collected from a subsample of 280 children and their caregivers who independently completed the OCHS-EBS checklist on 2 occasions 7 to 14 days apart. Structural equation modelling was used to assess internal and external convergent and discriminant validity—the latter tested against the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Children and Adolescents (MINI-KID).

Results:

Confirmatory factor analyses exhibited adequate item fit to all scales. Except for conduct disorder and youth-assessed separation anxiety disorder, internal (Cronbach’s α) and test-retest reliability (Pearson’s r) for scale scores were 0.70 or above. Except for youth-assessed conduct disorder, the OCHS-EBS met criteria for internal and convergent and discriminant validity. Compared with the MINI-KID, the OCHS-EBS met criteria for external convergent and discriminant validity.

Conclusions:

The OCHS-EBS provide reliable and valid dimensional measurement of 7 DSM-5 disorders assessed by caregivers and youth in the general population. Part II describes use of the OCHS-EBS as a categorical (present/absent) measure of disorder.
Clinical Features of and Risk Factors for Hydrocephalus in Childhood Bacterial Meningitis
Authors: Huo Liang , Fan Yuying , Jiang Chunying , Gao Jian , Yin Meng , Wang Hua , Yang Fenghua , Cao Qingjun
Published: October 2018

Objective:

To explore the clinical characteristics of and analyze the risk factors for hydrocephalus in children with bacterial meningitis.

Methods:

Retrospective study of a sample of children with bacterial meningitis seen on the pediatric service of Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2016.

Results:

Overall, 9.36% (25/267) of patients presented with hydrocephalus. Among patients with hydrocephalus, the age at onset of bacterial meningitis was usually <6 months, 15 patients had confirmed bacterial etiology, and 1 patient died. The most significant results of multivariate analysis for hydrocephalus were a rural living situation, altered level of consciousness, previous treatment with antibiotics, initial cerebrospinal fluid protein >2 g/L, C-reactive protein >100 mg/L, and dexamethasone use.

Conclusions:

A severe clinical manifestation and significant laboratory index at admission are the most important predictors of hydrocephalus in children with bacterial meningitis.
Adolescents Who Are Violent Toward Their Parents: An Approach to the Situation in Chile
Authors: Ilabaca Baeza Paola Andrea , Gaete Fiscella José Manuel
Published: October 2018

Child-to-parent violence has been defined as any act used by children to gain power and control by generating fear in their parents and that seeks to cause physical, psychological, and/or financial harm to their parents. This behavior puts family safety at risk due to the imbalance of power that it generates. For this reason, most abused parents feel guilty and humiliated. Child-to-parent violence has been historically underresearched compared with other studies about family violence. Most of the research conducted on this topic has been carried out in Europe and North America in the least decades. Nevertheless, in Chile, the research about child-to-parent violence has been really insufficient. This article presents the first analysis conducted in Chile regarding the prevalence of violent adolescent behavior toward parents. A total of 1,861 adolescents between the ages of 13 and 20 ( M = 16.1, SD = 1.29) participated in the study (48.1% boys; 51.9% girls). Participants answered an ad hoc questionnaire on child-to-parent violence. Our findings indicate that psychological, economic, and physical aggression against the mother was more frequent than against the father. Daughters are more likely to use psychological aggression toward their fathers and mothers, whereas sons are more likely to use financial and physical aggression. Young people living in single-parent families are more likely to use financial and psychological aggression toward their mother. These findings reveal the impact of gender and family structure on aggression toward parents.
The role of wing bending deflection in the aerodynamics of flapping micro aerial vehicles in hovering flight
Authors: Forouzi Feshalami Behzad , Djavareshkian MH , Zaree AH , Yousefi Masoud , Mehraban AA
Published: October 2018

Scientists have been improving the aerodynamic performance of flapping micro aerial vehicles by drawing inspiration from birds and insect flight. In this research study, first, the flapping mechanism of the black-headed gull is designed and then it is constructed in order to investigate the effects of wing bending deflection on the aerodynamic performance. Thrust generation, power consumption and power loading are considered as performance parameters. Three wings representing different underlying structures, namely flexible membrane, rigid membrane and airfoil, are fabricated with the same planform to investigate the roles of flexibility, thickness and camber. Experiments are performed for flapping frequencies ranging from 1.5 Hz to 6 Hz, 10 degrees angle of attack and no wind tunnel velocity (hovering flight). The results indicate that the aerodynamic performance is improved by using the bending deflection mechanism in comparison with the simple flapping mechanism. Moreover, we can conclude that the performance of the airfoil wing is superior to flexible and rigid wings.
Innovation Barriers and Their Impact on Innovation: Evidence from Indonesian Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Hartono Arif , Kusumawardhani Ratih
Published: October 2018

Using innovation data derived from the Indonesia Innovation Survey (IIS) 2011, this study investigates the nature and importance of innovation barriers faced by Indonesian manufacturing firms and examines the impact of innovation barriers on product, process, organization and marketing innovation and on innovation performance. Undertaking factor analysis, the study finds that the innovation barriers can be categorized as market and institution barriers, employee and organization attitude barriers, finance and risk barriers, and knowledge and cooperation barriers. Applying logit and tobit regression models, this study shows that barriers related to employee and organization attitude have positive influence on innovation and innovation performance. In contrast, the last two barriers have negative effects on innovation and innovation performance. Financial and risk constraints are perceived by the firms to be the most important barriers. Innovative and non-innovative firms perceive innovation barriers related to lack of information on technology, staff resistance to change, managers resistance to change and organization rigidity, differently.
Political Science and Images in Schooling: Personal Reflections on Textbook Making Process
Authors: George Alex M.
Published: October 2018

The article narrates a personal journey of learning and unlearning the images in school textbooks, its uses potentials and challenges as experienced by the author. It reflects upon the experiences of the process of selection of these images within the context of political science as a discipline. These experiences have been formed over a decade while working for Eklavya in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, and also at the NCERT in New Delhi. It locates changes in understanding the perspectives on political cartoons and posters as could be used in a school textbook. It also argues that there is a need to rethink ways in which cartoons are used in textbooks. Furthermore, it tells us something about the way political science as a discipline is taught in schools across India.
Can Foreign Aid Dampen the Threat of Terrorism to International Trade? Evidence from 78 Developing Countries
Authors: Asongu Simplice , Leke Ivo J.
Published: October 2018

The study investigates whether development assistance can be used to crowd-out the negative effect of terrorism on international trade. The empirical evidence is based on a panel of 78 developing countries for the period 1984–2008 and quantile regressions. The following main findings are established. First, bilateral aid significantly reduces the negative effect of transnational terrorism on trade in the top quantiles of trade distribution. Second, multilateral aid also significantly mitigates the negative effect of terrorism dynamics on trade in the top quantiles of trade distributions. It follows that it is primarily in countries with above-median levels of international trade that development assistance can be used as an effective policy tool for dampening the adverse effects of terrorism on trade. Practical implications are discussed. Moreover, steps or strategies that can be adopted by managers of corporations involved in international trade are provided, inter alia: (a) the improvement in physical security in high risky places, (b) the reduction of uncertainty linked with politically risky investment environments, (c) the reduction of costs associated with investments in locations that are very likely to be impacted by terrorism, (d) the role of security consultants and (e) the enhancement of security in networks.

JEL: F40, F23, F35, Q34, O40
A Randomized Control Trial of a Targeted High-Risk Offender Program Across Three Jurisdictions
Authors: Uchida Craig D. , Swatt Marc , Schnobrich-Davis Julie , Connor Christine , Shutinya Mariel , Wagner Daniel
Published: October 2018

This study reviews findings from Project Regional Analytics for the Safety of Our Residents, a modified focused deterrence program operated across three jurisdictions in Massachusetts. Unlike most other evaluations of targeted high-risk offender programs, the impact on individual-level offending is examined. Data from records management systems in three police agencies were extracted and used to create social harm risk scores. The top 150 offenders were selected for inclusion in this study. Subjects were blocked into three groups according to their composite score and then randomly assigned into treatment and control groups. All treatment group offenders were invited to a notification meeting where they decided whether to participate in the program with a police and social worker case management team. The outcome examined in this study is time to a new arraignment. Nonparametric and semiparametric methods detected no significant difference between groups after approximately one year. Implications for future research and practice are then discussed.
A novel missense mutation of GJA8 causes congenital cataract in a large Mauritanian family
Authors: Hadrami Mouna , Bonnet Crystel , Veten Fatimetou , Zeitz Christina , Condroyer Christel , Wang Panfeng , Biya Mohamed , Sidi Ahmed Med Ahmed , Zhang Qingjiong , Cheikh Sidi , Audo Isabelle , Petit Christine , Houmeida Ahmed
Published: October 2018

Objective of the study:

Inborn lens opacity is the most frequent cause of childhood blindness. In this study, we aimed to define the presumed genetic cause of a congenital cataract present in a Mauritanian family over the last nine generations.

Methods:

A family history of the disease and eye examination were carried out for the family members. Next-generation sequencing using a panel of 116 cataract underlying genes was selectively conducted on the proband’s DNA. Nucleotide and amino acid changes and their impact on the phenotype were evaluated using various data analyzing software.

Results:

Congenital nuclear cataract, with autosomal dominant mode, was observed in the family. All patients had consequences on their vision in the first 2 years of life. Genetic screening revealed a new mutation c.166A>C (p.Thr56Pro) in GJA8, encoding the Cx50 α-connexin protein. This mutation co-segregated in all patients and was not observed in the unaffected family members and controls. The predicted secondary structure impacted by p.Thr56Pro revealed a localized disruption, in the first extra membrane loop of the wild-type sheet, which is replaced in the mutant protein by a turn then a coil. This conformational change was functionally predicted as probably damaging.

Conclusion:

A new mutation (c.166A>C) in GJA8 underlying a nuclear congenital cataract was identified in this study. Its segregation with the phenotype might be useful as a predicting marker of the disease.
The relationship between bi/multilingualism, nativeness, proficiency and multimodal emotion recognition ability
Authors: Lorette Pernelle , Dewaele Jean-Marc
Published: October 2018

Aims and Objectives:

The primary aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between visual–vocal–verbal emotion recognition ability (ERA) and multilingualism – that is, both bilingual first language (L1) acquisition and the level of multilingualism operationalised as the number of languages one can speak. Besides these two factors, we also consider nativeness and proficiency as possible predictors of ERA.

Methodology:

One-thousand-two-hundred-and-twenty participants completed a survey online consisting of a sociobiographical background questionnaire, an English lexical test and an emotion recognition test including six stimuli. For each of the six audiovisual recordings, participants had to indicate which emotion they thought the L1 English speaker was conveying – happiness, sadness, anger, (positive) surprise, fear, disgust or no/neutral emotion.

Data and Analysis:

An individual ERA score was calculated for each participant. Correlations between ERA and the different variables were computed – including interactions – and significant correlations were fed into a linear regression model.

Findings:

The number of spoken languages was unrelated to ERA in our sample. The data revealed an interaction between BFLA and nativeness: bi/multilingually raised English second or foreign language (LX) users outperformed monolingually raised LX users, but bi/multilingually raised L1 users of English scored lower than monolingually raised L1 users. Proficiency was significantly related to ERA.

Originality:

This study points to a bilingual advantage in emotion recognition in English for participants with specific linguistic profiles. Participants who grew up with two languages from birth had an advantage if it did not include English. The advantage seemed to be cancelled out among bi/multilingually raised English L1 users, possibly due to interferences from their other L1(s) or L1 culture(s).

Significance:

This study contributes to the scarce literature on bilingual advantage in the affective domain and offers a nuanced view on bilingualism and ERA.
Contributions of patient and citizen researchers to ‘Am I the right way up?’ study of balance in posterior cortical atrophy and typical Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Crutch Sebastian J , Yong Keir XX , Peters Amy , Ocal Dilek , Kaski Diego , Gonzalez Aida Suarez , Ryan Natalie , Ball Simon , Harrison Charlie R , Murphy Charlie , Hulme Pam , Phillips Isabel , Hulme Gaynor , Brown Andrew , Brown Lu , Riley Peter , Ramsey Lynn , Woods Anthony , Day Brian
Published: October 2018

The current report describes the journey from the sharing of a single, extraordinary experience during a support group conversation to the development of a novel scientific investigation of balance problems in a rarer form of dementia. The story centres around the involvement of people living with or caring for someone with posterior cortical atrophy (often referred to as the visual variant of Alzheimer’s disease) in highlighting hitherto under-appreciated consequences of their condition upon their ability to know ‘Am I the right way up?’. We describe how comments and descriptions of these balance symptoms were collated and communicated, and the involvement of people with posterior cortical atrophy in shaping a series of scientific hypotheses and developing and adapting appropriate experimental materials and procedures. We also reflect more broadly on how we might better recognise, acknowledge and encourage different forms of involvement, and describe several engagement-inspired extensions to the research involving people living with dementia, scientists and artists.
Research participants as collaborators: Background, experience and policies from the PREVENT Dementia and EPAD programmes
Authors: Gregory Sarah , Wells Katie , Forsyth Kate , Latto Cate , Szyra Helen , Saunders Stina , Ritchie Craig W , Milne Richard
Published: October 2018

Aim

Despite the growing importance of public and patient involvement in biomedical research, comparatively little attention has been paid to the important role of research participants themselves. Our aim in this paper is to explore the impact research participant involvement has within the PREVENT and the European Prevention of Alzheimer’s Dementia (EPAD) projects.

Method

In this paper, we report the experiences of involving research participants as collaborators in prospective cohort studies exploring early changes in the brain as pathways towards and risks for dementia. We use minutes and feedback from members of the panel and steering committee to understand the experience and impact on the study.

Results

We describe the aims and structure of the participant panel established within the PREVENT Dementia study and highlight its contributions to the organisation, conduct and future of the study. Key areas of contribution identified include recruitment, inclusion of additional sub-studies, understanding the participant experience and contributing to the future of the study.

Discussion

We then describe how the PREVENT Dementia panel forms the basis for participant involvement within EPAD project.
Authentic public and patient involvement with Deaf sign language users: It is not just about language access
Authors: Young Alys , Ferguson-Coleman Emma , Keady John
Published: October 2018

This article concerns Public and Patient Involvement practice with Deaf people who are sign language users. It draws on the experience of public and patient involvement in a project concerning Deaf people’s lived experience of dementia and focusses on: (i) creating the conditions of trust in circumstances of unrecorded knowledge; (ii) being a community insider as a necessary but not sufficient condition without public and patient involvement and (iii) community consultation as influencing positive public and patient involvement practice. It sets out a series of recommendations for authentic public and patient involvement practice with Deaf sign language users linked to each of these themes before considering more generally barriers to Deaf people’s involvement in public and patient involvement in health and social care research.
The comedian as populist leader: Postironic narratives in an age of cynical irony
Authors: Milburn Keir
Published: October 2018

In October 2013 during a fractious interview with Jeremy Paxman for the Newsnight TV programme, the comedian Russell Brand called for a revolution against a self-serving political and economic elite. Over the following 18 months Brand became a prominent Left-wing political figure in the UK This paper suggests that Brand’s experience was not isolated but forms part of a wider contemporary trend of comedians becoming populist political leaders. Other examples include the French comedian Dieudonné and the Italian comedian Beppe Grillo, whose political party Movimento 5 Stelle is currently the largest in the Italian Parliament and part of the governing coalition. Using Brand as a case study the paper examines his political storytelling for its structure and mode of deployment. Whenever Brand ventures forward a sincere statement he always stands ready to ironize it in order to avoid the perception of piety. Using Peter Sloterdijk’s discussion of cynical reason and Slajov Zizek’s concept of cynical irony I suggest that a post-political ironic detachment has become the dominant mode of ideology. I then argue that this ironic detachment has come under increasing pressure since the economic crisis of 2008 and the increased political engagement it has provoked. It is within this aspect of the conjuncture that we can position the discourse about a Post-Truth era and Post-Truth leaders. The comedian as political leader, I argue, shows a particular route through this problem. They represent transitional figures pioneering the shift from ironic detachment to postironic statements and narratives of political sincerity of the kind that sustained political engagement requires.
The road to Sophia: Explaining the EU’s naval operation in the Mediterranean
Authors: Nováky Niklas
Published: October 2018

This article analyses the process through which Operation Sophia came into being. The EU’s on-going anti-smuggling naval operation in the Mediterranean, Sophia was launched during the height of the 2015 migration crisis. The article argues that Sophia is essentially an Italian strategy to deal with the security and humanitarian aspects of the Mediterranean migration problem. It was in 2013 that Italy first proposed an EU naval operation to tackle human smuggling and trafficking in the Mediterranean. However, the idea collapsed because other EU member states saw illegal migration in the Mediterranean as mainly a national problem facing Italy. In the spring of 2015 the European Commission revisited the proposal as part of its 10-point plan to deal with the migration problem. This time it succeeded because Italy’s partners could no longer oppose it without appearing callous towards the plight of the migrants.
SERPINA9 and SERPINB2: Novel Cartilage Lineage Differentiation Markers of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells with Kartogenin
Authors: Granados-Montiel Julio , Cruz-Lemini Monica , Rangel-Escareño Claudia , Martinez-Nava Gabriela , Landa-Solis Carlos , Gomez-Garcia Ricardo , Lopez-Reyes Alberto , Espinosa-Gutierrez Alejandro , Ibarra Clemente
Published: October 2018

Objective

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are a promising source for regenerative medicine, especially mesodermal lineages. Clinical applications require an understanding of the mechanisms for transcriptional control to maintain the desired cell type. The aim of this study was to identify novel markers for differentiation of hMSCs into bone or cartilage with the use of Kartogenin, by RNA analysis using microarray technology, and explore the role of RhoA-Rho associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibition in these.

Methods

Commercial human bone marrow derived primary mesenchymal stem cells were purchased from ATCC. Cells were differentiated in vitro in 2-dimensional cultures using Kartogenin as the main cartilage inducer and bone morphogenetic protein 2 for bone differentiation; cells were cultured with and without ROCK inhibitor Y-27632. After 21 days of culture, whole RNA was extracted and analyzed via Affimetrix microarrays. The most significant hits were validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

We found a total of 1,757 genes that were either up- or downregulated on differentiation, when compared to P1 hMSC (control) at day 0 of differentiation. Two members of the Serpin superfamily, SERPINA9 and SERPINB2, were significantly upregulated in the cartilage groups, whereas they were unchanged in the bone groups with and without ROCK inhibition.

Conclusions

SERPINA9 and SERPINB2 are novel differentiation markers, and molecular regulator candidates for hMSC lineage commitment toward bone and cartilage, providing a new tool for regenerative medicine. Our study highlights the roles of these 2 genes, with significant upregulation of both in cell cultures stimulated with Kartogenin.
Three-Dimensional Bioprinting of Articular Cartilage: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wu Yang , Kennedy Patrick , Bonazza Nicholas , Yu Yin , Dhawan Aman , Ozbolat Ibrahim
Published: October 2018

Objective

Treatment of chondral injury is clinically challenging. Available chondral repair/regeneration techniques have significant shortcomings. A viable and durable tissue engineering strategy for articular cartilage repair remains an unmet need. Our objective was to systematically evaluate the published data on bioprinted articular cartilage with regards to scaffold-based, scaffold-free and in situ cartilage bioprinting.

Design

We performed a systematic review of studies using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed and ScienceDirect databases were searched and all articles evaluating the use of 3-dimensional (3D) bioprinting in articular cartilage were included. Inclusion criteria included studies written in or translated to English, published in a peer-reviewed journal, and specifically discussing bioinks and/or bioprinting of living cells related to articular cartilage applications. Review papers, articles in a foreign language, and studies not involving bioprinting of living cells related to articular cartilage applications were excluded.

Results

Twenty-seven studies for articular cartilage bioprinting were identified that met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The technologies, materials, cell types used in these studies, and the biological and physical properties of the created constructs have been demonstrated.

Conclusion

These 27 studies have demonstrated 3D bioprinting of articular cartilage to be a tissue engineering strategy that has tremendous potential translational value. The unique abilities of the varied techniques allow replication of mechanical properties and advances toward zonal differentiation. This review demonstrates that bioprinting has great capacity for clinical cartilage reconstruction and future in vivo implantation.
Management of fractured root canal treated mandibular molar with separated endodontic instrument extending in periapical region
Authors: Mantri Shivkumar
Published: October 2018

The aim of this article is to present a case which demonstrates that debriding and disinfecting the infected, under-obturated canal of a tooth using standardized orthograde technique along with surgical retrieval of separated periapical instrument, heals the lesion of endodontic origin. Restoring the tooth with a definitive restoration involving core and crown reinstates the fractured tooth as a functional member of dental arch.
Intra-Articular Tranexamic Acid Injection During the Hip Hemi-Arthroplasty in Elderly Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Wei , Hui Huangdong , Zhang Yunhai , Lin Weilong , Fan Yongqian
Published: October 2018

Introduction:

The objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intra-articular injection of tranexamic acid (TXA) in patients between 80 and 100 years of age with femoral neck fracture undergoing hip hemi-arthroplasty (HA).

Material and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review to assess perioperative blood loss and transfusion rate after intra-articular injection of TXA during HA. This was a single-center, retrospective, single-surgeon, and standard care cohort study covering the period between January and December 2016. One hundred three consecutive patients undergoing HA under spinal or general anesthesia were included. Fifty-four and 49 patients received and did not receive intra-articular injection of TXA during the HA, respectively. After closing the capsule, 50 mL of a TXA solution at a concentration of 1 g/100 mL of saline was injected into joint capsule. We compared the following outcomes: preoperative hemoglobin (HB) level, postoperative day 1 HB level, postoperative day 3 HB level, the net reduction of HB level by postoperative day 3, transfusion rate, and 30- and 90-day postoperative mortality rates. In addition, we use logistic regression to analyze the factors affecting the transfusion rate.

Result:

Day 3 postoperative HB level and the net reduction in HB level within 3 days following surgery were 93.22 ± 11.70 g/L and 25.98 ± 6.29 g/L in TXA group, respectively, while were 87.10 ± 10.52 g/L and 35.44±8.61 g/L in no-TXA group. Transfusion rate was 9% (5/54) in TXA group and 24% (12/49) in no-TXA group, respectively. The differences were statistically significant between the both groups. Logistic regression indicated that the topical administration of TXA would reduce the risk for transfusion, while in male diabetes mellitus would increase the risk. There were no significant differences in the deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and mortality rates of 30 and 90 days postoperatively ( P > .05).

Discussion:

Because of lower systemic absorption and a higher concentration in the wound, topical use of TXA is safer for elderly patients who may have renal or liver dysfunction. TXA at therapeutic concentration does not affect platelet count, platelet aggregation, or coagulation parameters, and is of value in elderly patients who take antiplatelet drug for secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusion:

For patients between 80 and 100 years of age with femoral neck fracture undergoing HA, intra-articular injection of TXA may reduce the perioperative blood loss and transfusion rate without increasing risk of thrombosis.
A Ricoeur-Inspired Approach to Interpret Participant Observations and Interviews
Authors: Simonÿ Charlotte , Specht Kirsten , Andersen Ingrid Charlotte , Johansen Kirsten Kjær , Nielsen Charlotte , Agerskov Hanne
Published: October 2018

In-depth knowledge of what it means to patients to receive health care services is crucial to the development of adequate protocols for nursing. Qualitative research allows us to gain important insight into what is experienced by and meaningful to patients. The French philosopher Paul Ricoeur’s thoughts have inspired qualitative researchers to conduct various forms of analysis and interpretation that increase our knowledge of ways of being-in-the-world. This article describes and discusses how a specific approach to derive in-depth knowledge of patients’ lived experiences can be taken. A combination of participant observations and interviews was used to generate data. Field notes and transcribed interviews were gathered as one collective text and analyzed and interpreted with inspiration from Ricoeur’s thoughts on narratives and interpretation. This approach is argued to be a significant way of developing in-depth knowledge of patients’ lived experiences. Such knowledge is important within nursing science.
The Perna Women: Vulnerabilities, Opportunities and Work
Authors: Kakoty Juanita , Mishra Khushboo , Mir Anahita
Published: October 2018

This article has been put together as evidence of the socio-economic existence and vulnerabilities of the Perna community in Dharampura (Najafgarh, Delhi) where prostitution gets translated as the only source of livelihood, as the only opportunity to earn for the entire community. The article also captures the gender-based violence that plays out in this freed/denotified tribe (DNT) community, which becomes more acute while addressing the lives of their women and girls. It is based on field observations and interviews conducted with the women and girls from the Perna community in the Dharampura neighbourhood of Najafgarh during 2015–2018, and raises questions about the state’s responsibilities towards such DNT communities.
Gender Questions at the Margins: The Case of Nomadic and DNT Communities
Authors: Agrawal Anuja
Published: October 2018

The nomadic and denotified (DNT) communities are one of the extremely marginalized segments of Indian society. Although they are internally differentiated, they have some significant common concerns that are not necessarily identical with those plaguing other marginal groups. This article provides a broad overview of gender issues which are particularly critical for these communities but which have barely received any systematic attention. Drawing upon the author’s research and interaction with members of these communities as well as government reports and other secondary sources, the article examines these issues from the point of view of the marginal position of these groups vis-à-vis the larger society as well as from the perspective of institutions and practices prevalent within these groups. The author argues that gender issues should be integral to policy frameworks as well as other debates about nomadic and DNT communities.