bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demanda Pedro Fausto Canales Bermejo contra España. Informe pericial sobre víctimas del franquismo en la sociedad española contemporánea (15 de septiembre de 2012)
Authors: Ferrándiz Martín Francisco , Flores Martos Juan Antonio , García Alonso María , López García Julián , Tomé Martín Pedro
Published: January 2020

El siguiente informe pericial se basa en la experiencia de investigación de los firmantes en relación a las exhumaciones de fosas comunes de la Guerra Civil (1936-1939) y la postguerra, y al conocido como “movimiento para la recuperación de la memoria histórica” que están teniendo lugar en España desde el año 2000, que ha enfatizado sus demandas sobre la suerte de los desaparecidos y ha puesto en marcha un ciclo de exhumaciones de fosas comunes derivadas de la Guerra Civil (1936-1939) y la dictadura (1939-1975). En este peritaje se usan las exhumaciones del siglo XXI como indicadores de la persistencia en el tiempo de las políticas y culturas del miedo instaladas en la sociedad española durante la Guerra Civil y la dictadura, más allá de las profundas transformaciones políticas e institucionales acaecidas en el país tras la muerte de Francisco Franco. Fue presentado como parte de la documentación de la demanda de Fausto Canales contra España el 15 de septiembre de 2012 en el Tribunal Europeo de Derechos Humanos.
Memorias colectivas: usos y representaciones. Una introducción
Authors: García Alonso María
Published: January 2020

Introducción al dossier "Memorias colectivas"
La educación en los campamentos saharauis: un sistema educativo en el refugio y en el desierto
Authors: Vinagrero Ávila José Antonio
Published: January 2020

When in 1975 Spain leaves to its fate the inhabitants of the former Spanish province of Western Sahara, most of the Saharawi population has to flee their homes chased by the armies of Morocco and Mauritania in the operation known as “Ecouvillon” while the civilian population marched to Saharaui territory in "The Green March" .In this flight to the desert find refuge in an inhospitable territory of the Algerian Hamada where, located in four camps, declare the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), organizing basic services that allow the survival of the population as well as the possibility of return and government of the territory of Western Sahara in the future. Within the hardness of the situation emerges something exceptional and it is the main axis of this article. The Saharawi people are able to create in the desert refugee camps an educational system that reduces illiteracy in the population as a whole and in childhood in particular. They have been able to organize an educational system in which practically 100% of children are in school, reducing the illiteracy of 90% of the population, in colonial times, to data similar to those of developed countries. In the education of the camps you can study children's education, primary, secondary and also vocational training. In this article we will go deeper into the main characteristics and difficulties of a structured educational system practically without economic resources, but what represents a great commitment to education as a form of struggle, social and political progress. We will also analyze the role of the Spanish Government as a donor of humanitarian aid to these people, as well as its political responsibility in a conflict that has been open for more than 40 years, with Western Sahara being the only territory in the world pending decolonization.
Paula Almeida Mendes, Paradigmas de papel: a escrita e a edição de «vidas» de santos e «vidas devotas» em Portugal (séculos XVI – XVIII)
Authors: Sánchez Sánchez Rosa Maria
Published: January 2020

Trata-se de uma recensão do título referido, da autoria de Paula Almeida Mendes
Escritoras monjas: autoridad y autoría en la escritura conventual femenina de los Siglos de Oro.
Authors: Luengo Balbás María
Published: January 2020

Reseña. Escritoras monjas.
Capacidades humanas centrales en los jornaleros agrícolas migrantes de México
Authors: Pérez-Soto Francisco , Escamilla-García Pablo Emilio , Figueroa-Hernández Esther , Pérez-Figueroa Rebeca
Published: January 2020

This paper reports an analysis of the behavior and perception of migrant agricultural workers in relation to central human capacities. Seven dimensions of analysis were aligned to the human central capabilities proposed by Nussbaum. The results showed that physical health and emotions infringe human development of workers. The capabilities of practical reason, affiliation and control over the environment showed discrimination and social segregation. The results provide evidence on the quality of life and general welfare situation of migrant farm workers from a perspective for human development.
La conmemoración pacifista de los muertos. "Krieg" (1921/22) de Käthe Kollwitz y Clerambault (1920) de Romain Rolland
Authors: Ortrud M. Hertrampf Marina
Published: January 2020

Con sus obras, Käthe Kollwitz y Romain Rolland conmemoran los muertos de la Primera Guerra Mundial de formas artísticamente diferentes, pero comparten la misma actitud pacifista. Basado en las obras autobiográficas de Kollwitz y en la novela de ficción de Rolland, el artículo muestra cómo el luto individual puede convertirse en un recuerdo colectivo de los muertos motivado por el pacifismo.
Banalización y singularización de la muerte en la literatura concentracionaria
Authors: Miñano Mañero Laura
Published: January 2020

En los campos de concentración nacionalsocialistas se transforma la concepción de la muerte hasta límites desconocidos en la historia. La noción arraigada en la civilización que interpreta la muerte como el principio individualizador final y determinante de la experiencia humana desaparece de manera categórica y, más bien, nos enfrentamos a una producción mecánica de cadáveres en masa. A partir del corpus testimonial legado por los supervivientes, es posible reflexionar sobre su concepción relativa a esa muerte propia y ajena. Explorando la literatura concentracionaria, además, hallamos pruebas de cómo los reclusos logran, entre esa sistemática banalización de la muerte, encontrar significado y singularizar algunos fallecimientos para, de ese modo, conseguir reafirmarse como seres humanos. Para acotar el objeto de estudio de este trabajo y asegurar un análisis contextualizado, nos centraremos principalmente en experiencias y recuerdos de supervivientes judíos del complejo Auschwitz-Birkenau.
¿Más allá de la literatura? Narradores muertos en la literatura contemporánea
Authors: Braun Michael
Published: January 2020

Obviamente, la muerte del narrador ya no le permite contar su propia historia, de acuerdo con el dictado de Vladimir Nabokov "El 'yo' del libro no puede morir en el libro". Sin embargo, hay muchas novelas y cuentos en la literatura alemana contemporánea con un narrador muerto. Pertenecen a las llamadas narrativas del más allá ("Jenseitserzählungen"). Mi ensayo argumenta que la muerte del narrador es la resurrección del narrador poco fiable en un sentido muy especial: con un realismo mágico en Der fernste Ort (2001) de Daniel Kehlmann, y en Johnny Shines oder Die Wiedererweckung der Toten (1993) de Patrick Roth por medio de la escritura mitológica.
Blutorangen (2015) de Verena Boos. ¿Una contribución alemana a la literatura de la memoria?
Authors: Auweiler Julia
Published: January 2020

El renovado interés por el pasado reciente de España y los esfuerzos de recuperación de la memoria histórica han dado lugar a un considerable número de novelas contemporáneas relacionadas con la Guerra Civil Española, el franquismo y la Transición a la democracia. También otros autores no españoles han abordado el tema en la actualidad, como la escritora alemana Verena Boos en su novela debut Blutorangen (2015). En este artículo se argumenta que Blutorangen se relaciona con la llamada literatura de la memoria no sólo a nivel formal, mediante el uso de puntos de vista cambiantes, flashbacks y flashforwards, sino también a nivel temático, centrándose en una representación polifacética del "villano nacionalista" (Hansen, 2011) como así como en los temas de la culpa, el olvido y el recuerdo.
Encarnando la memoria de los muertos silenciados en Herztier y Atemschaukel de Herta Müller
Authors: Iztueta Goizueta Garbiñe
Published: January 2020

Este artículo se centra en la representación de los muertos silenciados en Herztier y Atemschaukel de Herta Müller. El punto de partida es la hipótesis de que la figura de los muertos sirve a Müller para reivindicar la importancia, según las suposiciones de Thomas W. Laqueur, de "la obra de los muertos", para la memoria colectiva de la comunidad germano-rumana del Banato y de toda Rumanía. En ambas novelas se analizan tres elementos clave de la representación de la memoria de los muertos en la Rumanía dictatorial y postdictatorial: la forma precisa de morir, la corporeidad de los muertos y su relación con los objetos y, finalmente, la presencia fantasmal de los muertos entre los vivos, ya sea a través de objetos o en forma de sueño. La presencia de los muertos entre los vivos en el universo de Müller no es reconfortante, sino difícil, fantasmal e inquietante.
Adherence to Physiotherapy-Guided Web-Based Exercise for Persons with Moderate-to-Severe Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Donkers Sarah J. , Nickel Darren , Paul Lorna , Wiegers Shyane R. , Knox Katherine B.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Options to support adherence to physical activity in moderate-to-severe multiple sclerosis (MS) are needed. The primary aim was to evaluate adherence to a Web-based, individualized exercise program in moderate-to-severe MS. Secondary aims explored changes in 29-item Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), grip strength, Timed 25-Foot Walk test, and Timed Up and Go (TUG) results.

Methods:

Participants were randomized (2:1) to a physiotherapist-guided Web-based home exercise program or a physiotherapist-prescribed written home exercise program. The primary outcome was adherence (number of exercise sessions over 26 weeks). Secondary outcomes were described in terms of means and effect sizes.

Results:

There were 48 participants: mean ± SD age, 54.3 ± 11.9 years; disease duration, 19.5 ± 11.0 years; and Patient-Determined Disease Steps scale score, 4.4 ± 1.6. There was no significant difference in mean ± SD adherence in the Web-based group (38.9 ± 28.1) versus the comparator group (34.6 ± 40.8; U = 198.5, P = .208, Hedges’ g = 0.13). Nearly 50% of participants (23 of 48) exercised at least twice per week for at least 13 of the 26 weeks. Adherence was highest in the Web-based subgroup of wheelchair users. Medium effect sizes were found for the HADS anxiety subscale and in ambulatory participants for TUG. There were no adverse events.

Conclusions:

There was no difference in exercise adherence between the Web-based and active comparator groups. There was no worsening of secondary outcomes or adverse events, supporting the safety of Web-based physiotherapy. More research is needed to determine whether wheelchair users might be most likely to benefit from Web-based physiotherapy.
El marketing online: la importancia de analizar los resultados
Authors: Morales Maribel
Published: January 2020

Internet se ha convertido en un medio más en el que invertir en publicidad para muchas empresas. Maribel Morales, experta en marketing online y analítica web, nos ofrece un repaso a las estrategias de marketing más utilizadas en la red. Además, uno de los aspectos destacados es que el éxito se puede analizar y cuantificar gracias a la analítica web.
Festival Offf: «Fail gracefuly»
Authors: Báscones Pere
Published: January 2020

El Offf volvió un año más a situarse como un festival de referencia en el ámbito de la creación y la cultura digital (o post-digital como sus organizadores lo definen). Durante los días 7, 8 y 9 de mayo se concentraron en Oeiras (Portugal, muy cerca de Lisboa) una interesante selección de participantes del panorama internacional, tanto del campo artístico, como del diseño y de la creación visual y sonora digital.
Resolving multisensory and attentional influences across cortical depth in sensory cortices
Authors: Gau Remi , Bazin Pierre-Louis , Trampel Robert , Turner Robert , Noppeney Uta
Published: January 2020

In our environment, our senses are bombarded with a myriad of signals, only a subset of which is relevant for our goals. Using sub-millimeter-resolution fMRI at 7T, we resolved BOLD-response and activation patterns across cortical depth in early sensory cortices to auditory, visual and audiovisual stimuli under auditory or visual attention. In visual cortices, auditory stimulation induced widespread inhibition irrespective of attention, whereas auditory relative to visual attention suppressed mainly central visual field representations. In auditory cortices, visual stimulation suppressed activations, but amplified responses to concurrent auditory stimuli, in a patchy topography. Critically, multisensory interactions in auditory cortices were stronger in deeper laminae, while attentional influences were greatest at the surface. These distinct depth-dependent profiles suggest that multisensory and attentional mechanisms regulate sensory processing via partly distinct circuitries. Our findings are crucial for understanding how the brain regulates information flow across senses to interact with our complex multisensory world.
STRIPAK directs PP2A activity toward MAP4K4 to promote oncogenic transformation of human cells
Authors: Kim Jong Wook , Berrios Christian , Kim Miju , Schade Amy E , Adelmant Guillaume , Yeerna Huwate , Damato Emily , Iniguez Amanda Balboni , Florens Laurence , Washburn Michael P , Stegmaier Kim , Gray Nathanael S , Tamayo Pablo , Gjoerup Ole , Marto Jarrod A , DeCaprio James , Hahn William C
Published: January 2020

Alterations involving serine-threonine phosphatase PP2A subunits occur in a range of human cancers, and partial loss of PP2A function contributes to cell transformation. Displacement of regulatory B subunits by the SV40 Small T antigen (ST) or mutation/deletion of PP2A subunits alters the abundance and types of PP2A complexes in cells, leading to transformation. Here, we show that ST not only displaces common PP2A B subunits but also promotes A-C subunit interactions with alternative B subunits (B’’’, striatins) that are components of the Striatin-interacting phosphatase and kinase (STRIPAK) complex. We found that STRN4, a member of STRIPAK, is associated with ST and is required for ST-PP2A-induced cell transformation. ST recruitment of STRIPAK facilitates PP2A-mediated dephosphorylation of MAP4K4 and induces cell transformation through the activation of the Hippo pathway effector YAP1. These observations identify an unanticipated role of MAP4K4 in transformation and show that the STRIPAK complex regulates PP2A specificity and activity.
Introduction
Authors: Tsonkova Svetlana
Published: January 2020

It is an honor to welcome the readers to the eighth issue of Incantatio! This is not simply a scholarly journal, this is a scholarly institution, in the best sense of the word. First and foremost, Incantatio stands for academic authenticity, productivity and communication. It encourages vibrant research and establishes stable continuity in the field. The current issue fulfils this goals completely, providing a platform for presentation of both accomplished results and future projects.
Light field resampling method for elemental image array generation of integral imaging
Authors: Liu Ze‐Sheng , Deng Huan , Li Jiao‐Jiao , Deng Hui , Lv Guo‐Jiao , Fan Jun , Zhao Bai‐Chuan
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we proposed a light field resampling method for generating elemental image array (EIA) of integral imaging. The proposed method can break through the constraints between parameters of traditional integral imaging record device and display device and allow to generate a new set of EIA suited to be displayed in an integral imaging display device with arbitrary parameters from any given recorded EIA. Three‐dimensional display results show the correctness and superiority of the proposed method.
The effectiveness of advertising alcohol products in sports sponsorship
Authors: Alonso Dos Santos Manuel , Pérez Campos Carlos , Crespo Hervás Josep
Published: January 2020

Studies have shown that exposure to sponsorship can influence behavior. However, evidence of the effectiveness of sports advertising and its influence on alcohol consumption is inconclusive. The goal of this research is to examine whether sponsorship by alcohol products receives the same attention as sponsorship by nonalcohol products depending on their congruence and the way they influence the intention to consume. Using sports posters, an experiment was performed to measure attention through eye‐tracking. The results show that attention paid to alcohol brands is no greater than the attention paid to incongruent brands and is no different from the attention paid to congruent brands, regardless of gender and sporting discipline. Attention paid to sponsors has no influence on the intention to consume. These results show the need for further research on the effectiveness of sponsorship and its relationship with alcohol consumption.
Dynamics of the Carbonate System in the Western Indonesian Seas During the Southeast Monsoon
Authors: Hamzah Faisal , Agustiadi Teguh , Susanto R. Dwi , Wei Zexun , Guo Liguo , Cao Zhimian , Dai Minhan
Published: January 2020

We present a unique water column data set of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and total alkalinity (TAlk) from a cruise to the western Indonesian Seas during the southeast monsoon, covering the Karimata Strait, western Java Sea, and Sunda Strait. Salinity‐normalized TAlk (NTAlk) in the surface water ranged 2,297–2,348 μmol kg−1, very close to typical values observed in the tropical ocean. In the Karimata Strait, the Kapuas River plume was observed, featuring low salinity, DIC, and TAlk. In the western Java Sea, where waters were well mixed, we observed relatively homogeneous distributions of salinity, DIC, and TAlk. In the Sunda Strait, waters intruding from the Java Sea occupied the upper layer, and below was the Indian Ocean water with lower values of salinity, DIC, and TAlk. In its deep portion, depth profiles of normalized DIC and NTAlk were very similar to those observed in the Indian Ocean. Physical processes and air‐sea gas exchange exerted predominant controls on the carbonate system in the Karimata Strait and western Java Sea. While both processes play large roles in the Sunda Strait, a net DIC removal of 31 ± 23 μmol kg−1 in the surface mixed layer were revealed. The drawdown of DIC is consistent with an overall supersaturation of dissolved oxygen (102–107%), suggesting significant organic carbon production. In the subsurface‐intermediate waters of the Sunda Strait mainly influenced by the advection of Indian Ocean water, a net DIC consumption of 54 ± 45 μmol kg−1 was distinct, likely stimulated by the nutrients supplied from the Indian Ocean.
Single-cell ATP detection and content analyses in electrostimulus-induced apoptosis using functionalized glass nanopipettes
Authors: Wang Dandan , Qi Guohua , Zhou Ya , Zhang Ying , Wang Bo , Hu Ping , Jin Yongdong
Published: January 2020

Functionalized glass nanopipettes were applied for single-cell ATP detection through partial disassembly of gold nanoparticle assemblies after combination with ATP.
Strongly emissive white-light-emitting silver iodide based inorganic–organic hybrid structures with comparable quantum efficiency to commercial phosphors
Authors: Lin Fang , Liu Wei , Wang Hao , Li Jing
Published: January 2020

A series of one-dimensional silver iodide based inorganic–organic hybrid structures with tunable white light emissions and high quantum efficiency have been synthesized by Cu substitution.
The Relationship between Serum Relaxin Concentrations and Knee Valgus
Authors: Gilmer Gabrielle G. , Roberts Michael D. , Oliver Gretchen D.
Published: January 2020

Female athletes are at an elevated risk for tearing their anterior cruciate
ligament, compared to their male counterparts. Though injury screening clinical
tests and neuromuscular training programs have been widely implemented, injury
rates remain high among female athletes. The purpose of this study was to
examine the relationship between serum relaxin concentrations and knee valgus
during three clinical tests (single leg squat, drop vertical jump, and single
leg crossover dropdown). Twenty-two female athletes volunteered. Participants
were scheduled for collection during the mid-luteal phase, when serum relaxin
concentrations are known to be measurable. Blood samples were collected, and
serum relaxin concentrations were quantified. Kinematic data were collected
while participants performed the three clinical tests. Regression analyses
revealed statistically significant relationships between serum relaxin
concentrations and knee valgus throughout all tests. These findings suggest that
serum relaxin concentrations and knee valgus are not independent of each other
and more holistic approaches may be necessary to truly map out the risk for
injury and ultimately reduce the rate of anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
Thus, concluding that knee valgus, a highly utilized modifiable biomechanical
risk factor, and relaxin, a hormone that has been associated with anterior
cruciate ligament injury in female athletes, are related to each other.
Monocytes mediate homing of circulating microvesicles to the pulmonary vasculature during low‐grade systemic inflammation
Authors: O'Dea Kieran P. , Tan Ying Ying , Shah Sneh , V Patel Brijesh , C Tatham Kate , Wilson Mike R. , Soni Sanooj , Takata Masao
Published: January 2020

Microvesicles (MVs), a plasma membrane‐derived subclass of extracellular vesicles, are produced and released into the circulation during systemic inflammation, yet little is known of cell/tissue‐specific uptake of MVs under these conditions. We hypothesized that monocytes contribute to uptake of circulating MVs and that their increased margination to the pulmonary circulation and functional priming during systemic inflammation produces substantive changes to the systemic MV homing profile. Cellular uptake of i.v.‐injected, fluorescently labelled MVs (J774.1 macrophage‐derived) in vivo was quantified by flow cytometry in vascular cell populations of the lungs, liver and spleen of C57BL6 mice. Under normal conditions, both Ly6Chigh and Ly6Clow monocytes contributed to MV uptake but liver Kupffer cells were the dominant target cell population. Following induction of sub‐clinical endotoxemia with low‐dose i.v. LPS, MV uptake by lung‐marginated Ly6Chigh monocytes increased markedly, both at the individual cell level (~2.5‐fold) and through substantive expansion of their numbers (~8‐fold), whereas uptake by splenic macrophages was unchanged and uptake by Kupffer cells actually decreased (~50%). Further analysis of MV uptake within the pulmonary vasculature using a combined model approach of in vivo macrophage depletion, ex vivo isolated perfused lungs and in vitro lung perfusate cell‐based assays, indicated that Ly6Chigh monocytes possess a high MV uptake capacity (equivalent to Kupffer cells), that is enhanced directly by endotoxemia and ablated in the presence of phosphatidylserine (PS)‐enriched liposomes and β3 integrin receptor blocking peptide. Accordingly, i.v.‐injected PS‐enriched liposomes underwent a redistribution of cellular uptake during endotoxemia similar to MVs, with enhanced uptake by Ly6Chigh monocytes and reduced uptake by Kupffer cells. These findings indicate that monocytes, particularly lung‐marginated Ly6Chigh subset monocytes, become a dominant target cell population for MVs during systemic inflammation, with significant implications for the function and targeting of endogenous and therapeutically administered MVs, lending novel insights into the pathophysiology of pulmonary vascular inflammation.
BHi-Cect: a top-down algorithm for identifying the multi-scale hierarchical structure of chromosomes
Authors: Kumar Vipin , Leclerc Simon , Taniguchi Yuichi
Published: January 2020

High-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) technology enables the investigation of genome-wide interactions among chromosome loci. Current algorithms focus on topologically associating domains (TADs), that are contiguous clusters along the genome coordinate, to describe the hierarchical structure of chromosomes. However, high resolution Hi-C displays a variety of interaction patterns beyond what current TAD detection methods can capture. Here, we present BHi-Cect, a novel top-down algorithm that finds clusters by considering every locus with no assumption of genomic contiguity using spectral clustering. Our results reveal that the hierarchical structure of chromosome is organized as ‘enclaves’, which are complex interwoven clusters at both local and global scales. We show that the nesting of local clusters within global clusters characterizing enclaves, is associated with the epigenomic activity found on the underlying DNA. Furthermore, we show that the hierarchical nesting that links different enclaves integrates their respective function. BHi-Cect provides means to uncover the general principles guiding chromatin architecture.
Food allergy in adults in Europe: what can we learn from geographical differences?
Authors: Popov Todor A. , Mustakov Tihomir B. , Kralimarkova Tanya Z.
Published: January 2020

Purpose of review

The aim of this article is to characterize the present state-of-the-art on the topic of food allergies across Europe.

Recent findings

A systematic review and metaanalysis on the epidemiology of food allergy in Europe have been performed by the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Guidelines Group of the European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology. The authors had made an extensive search of four different electronic databases which retrieved thousands of hits. A critical appraisal of the documents reduced their number to just over 100 articles covering the period 2000–2012, revealing striking methodological inhomogeneity and blank areas on the map of the continent, particularly for the adult population. A major new development intending to fill in the gaps in the field of food allergy is the launch and implementation of the European Union-funded project ‘Prevalence, Cost and Basis of Food Allergy Across Europe,’ acronym ‘EuroPrevall.’ Among the deliverable of the project are several seminal articles on food allergy in adults which are presented in this review.

The EuroPrevall project confirmed much more reliably and in more detail the existing inhomogeneity in the prevalence of food allergy, which reflects environmental and climate differences between the separate countries, but possibly also the level of public awareness.
The role of eosinophils in immunotherapy
Authors: Cafone Joseph , Ruffner Melanie A. , Spergel Jonathan M.
Published: January 2020

Purpose of review

The purpose of this review is to provide a brief discussion on the differential diagnosis for peripheral eosinophilia. We will then focus on targeted immunotherapies for atopic disease, their effects on absolute peripheral eosinophil counts, and use of peripheral eosinophils as a predictor of treatment response.

Recent findings

In atopic disease, lower absolute peripheral eosinophil counts are typically associated with improved outcomes. Much of the current evidence on eosinophils as a biomarker comes from post-hoc analyses in therapeutic immunotherapy. While changes in eosinophilia were not the primary outcome of interest in many studies, some patterns did emerge. Cytolytic mAbs AK002 and benralizumab completely reduce peripheral and tissue eosinophil numbers. Dupilumab may have paradoxical transient eosinophilia despite observed clinical efficacy.

Atopic inflammation is complex largely due to the various cytokines which affect eosinophils activation, proliferation, differentiation, and survival. This demonstrates the challenges of using peripheral eosinophilia alone as a biomarker for atopic disease activity. More attention should spotlight how different immunotherapy modalities affect eosinophil-driven responses.
Multidrug-resistant bacteria in ICU: fact or myth
Authors: De Waele Jan J. , Boelens Jerina , Leroux-Roels Isabel
Published: January 2020

Purpose of review

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is increasing in ICUs around the world, but the prevalence is variable. We will review recent literature and try to answer the question whether this is a myth or a new reality, as well as discuss challenges and potential solutions.

Recent findings

AMR is diverse, and currently Gram-negative multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) are the main challenge in ICUs worldwide. Geographical variation in prevalence of MDROs is substantial, and local epidemiology should be considered to assess the current threat of AMR. ICU patients are at a high risk of infection with MDRO because often multiple risk factors are present. Solutions should focus on reducing the risk of cross-transmission in the ICU through strict infection prevention and control practices and reducing exposure to antimicrobials as the major contributor to the development of AMR.

AMR is a reality in most ICUs around the world, but the extent of the problem is clearly highly variable. Infection prevention and control as well as appropriate antimicrobial use are the cornerstones to turn the tide.
Treatment of early-onset scoliosis: techniques, indications, and complications
Authors: Zhang Yan-Bin , Zhang Jian-Guo
Published: January 2020

The treatments for early-onset scoliosis (EOS) remain great challenges for spine surgeons. This study aimed to comprehensively review the treatments for EOS, especially the advancements made in the last decade. Current studies on EOS were retrieved through a search on PubMed, UpToDate, the Web of Science Core Collection and Scopus were reviewed. The most pertinent information related to the current treatments for EOS was collected. The foci of treatments for EOS have included creating a well-developed thoracic cavity, improving lung volume, and improving pulmonary function. Conservative treatments include bracing, casting, halo-gravity traction, and physiotherapy. Serial casting is the most effective conservative treatment for EOS. Surgical treatments mainly include growth-friendly techniques, which are generally classified into three types according to the amount of correction force applied: distraction-based, compression-based, and growth-guided. The distraction-based systems include traditional or conventional growing rods, magnetically controlled growing rods, and vertical expandable prosthesis titanium ribs. The compression-based systems include vertebral body stapling and tethering. The growth-guided systems include the Shilla system and modern Luque trolley. In addition, some newer techniques have emerged in recent years, such as posterior dynamic deformity correction (ApiFix). For EOS patients presenting with sharp deformities in a long, congenital spinal deformity, a hybrid technique, one-stage posterior osteotomy with short segmental fusion and dual growing rods, may be a good choice. Hemivertebra resection is the gold standard for congenital scoliosis caused by single hemivertebra. Although the patient's growth potential is preserved in growth-friendly surgeries, a high complication rate should be expected, as well as a prolonged treatment duration and additional costs. Knowledge about EOS and its treatment options is rapidly expanding. Conservative treatments have specific limitations. For curves requiring a surgical intervention, surgical techniques may vary depending on the patients’ characteristics, the surgeon's experience, and the actual state of the country.
Vision 2020: where are we?
Authors: Bourne Rupert R.A.
Published: January 2020

Purpose of review

To describe the VISION 2020: The Right to Sight, global initiative for the elimination of avoidable blindness, the contribution of glaucoma to the magnitude of global blindness and priorities going forward.

Recent findings

Although the target of the World Health Organization's Global Action Plan (2014–2019) has not been met in terms of 25% reduction in avoidable blindness, there is evidence that the contribution of glaucoma to blindness and vision impairment is reducing. Yet this focus on a threshold of visual acuity by which to measure prevalence underestimates the true burden of glaucoma. Recent population-based studies demonstrate the scale of the unmet need.

Scaling up of integrated people-centered eye care, by embedding glaucoma detection and care pathways in health systems with a strong focus on primary healthcare, is necessary. Solutions include reinforcing existing pathways while emphasizing high-quality glaucoma care, in addition to novel solutions such as self-testing, digital portable technology, artificial intelligence, and multilevel care pathways that extend to the most underserved parts of the global community.
Dynamic analysis of variations in postoperative pain trajectories over time in patients receiving epidural analgesia using latent curve models
Authors: Lee Ming-Ying , Chang Wen-Kuei , Wu Hsiang-Ling , Lin Shih-Pin , Tsou Mei-Yung , Chang Kuang-Yi
Published: January 2020

Background:

Although epidural analgesia (EA) provides reliable pain relief after major operations, few studies have explored how postoperative pain trajectories change over time in patients receiving EA and the associated factors. This study aimed to model the dynamic features of pain trajectories after surgery and investigate factors associated with their variations using latent curve analysis.

Methods:

This retrospective study was conducted at a single medical center in Taiwan, and data were obtained from patients receiving perioperative EA by electronic chart review. Mean numeric rating pain scores were recorded daily in the first five postoperative days. Patient demographics, surgical sites, and infusion pump settings were also collected. Latent curve models using two latent variables, intercept and slope, were developed to explain the variations in postoperative pain scores over time. The influences of potential predictors of postoperative pain trajectories were further evaluated for the final model determination.

Results:

Of the 1294 collected patients, the daily pain scores averaged 2.0 to 2.9 for different surgical sites. Among the nine significant factors influencing pain trajectories, chest and lower extremity surgery tended to induce less and more baseline pain, respectively, than those with abdomen surgery (both p < 0.001). In addition, male patients and those with a shorter anesthesia time had less baseline pain (p < 0.001 and p = 0.016, respectively). The older and lighter patients and those with chest surgery or American Society of Anesthesiologists class ≥ 3 tended to have milder decreasing trends in pain trajectories. A higher infusion rate was associated with an elevated baseline level and smoother decreasing trend in pain trajectory. The final model fit our data acceptably (root mean square error of approximation = 0.05, comparative fit index = 0.97).

Conclusion:

Latent curve analysis provided insights into the dynamic nature of variations in postoperative pain trajectories. Further studies investigating more factors associated with pain trajectories are warranted to elucidate the mechanisms behind the transitions of pain scores over time after surgery.
European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation score correlates with outcomes of older patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Chien Sheng-Hsuan , Liu Yao-Chung , Liu Chia-Jen , Ko Po-Shen , Wang Hao-Yuan , Hsiao Liang-Tsai , Lin Jeong-Shi , Chiou Tzeon-Jye , Liu Chun-Yu , Gau Jyh-Pyng
Published: January 2020

Background:

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) are hematological diseases predominantly occurring in older patients. Although allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) remains the curative therapy for refractory AML or high-risk MDS, old age is often a hurdle to the procedure. We conducted a retrospective study to analyze the prognostic factors predicting outcomes of older patients undergoing allo-HSCT for acute leukemia and MDS.

Methods:

We collected data from patients diagnosed with acute leukemia or MDS, who underwent allo-HSCT at >50 years of age and reviewed clinical characteristics, including age, sex, underlying disease, European Group for Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) risk score, and presence of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) or chronic GVHD (cGVHD). The Cox proportional hazard model was adopted to explore the independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and non-relapse mortality (NRM).

Results:

A total of 85 older patients were included, with the median age at allo-HSCT being 55 years. The significant prognostic factors for worse OS or PFS were an EBMT risk score > 3 and grade III–IV aGVHD, while patients with moderate to severe cGVHD would have better OS or PFS. Interestingly, it is not cGVHD but grade III–IV aGVHD that significantly correlated with NRM.

Conclusion:

This cohort study suggests that an EBMT risk score >3 and grade III–IV aGVHD predict poor outcomes, and careful management of GVHD may allow better survival for older patients undergoing allo-HSCT.
Depression and Anxiety Moderate the Relationship Between Body Image and Personal Well-being Among Patients With an Implanted Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Melnikov Semyon , Abuhazira Miri , Golobov Dimitry , Yaari Victoria , Jaarsma Tiny , Ben Gal Tuvia
Published: January 2020

Background

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) support the diseased heart of patients with advanced heart failure and are used as a bridge to heart transplantation or as destination therapy for patients ineligible for heart transplantation. Body image changes, as well as anxiety and depression, are prevalent among patients with an implanted LVAD.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate whether a relationship exists between body image and personal well-being among patients with an implanted LVAD and, if it does, whether it is moderated by anxiety and depression.

Methods

In this cross-sectional correlational study, a convenience sample of 30 adult patients with an implanted LVAD (mean age, 63 ± 10; 90% male) from the outpatient facility of a tertiary medical center completed validated instruments including the Body Image Scale, Cosmetic Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Personal Well-being Index, from October 2017 to February 2018. Results were subjected to multivariate linear regression and bootstrap moderation analyses.

Results

Eleven patients (37%) had below-average personal well-being scores, and 14 patients (47%) had below-average body image scores. Seven (23%) had either anxiety or depression, and 11 (37%) had both anxiety and depression. Body image was found to be a significant predictor of personal well-being (t = 2.16, P = .04). When anxiety and depression were present, body image (t = 2.08, P = .049), depression (t = 2.53, P = .018), and the interaction between body image and depression (t = −2.1, P = .047) were significantly associated with personal well-being.

Conclusions

Body image significantly predicted personal well-being among patients with an implanted LVAD. Depression alone, or depression combined with anxiety, moderated the relationships between body image and personal well-being. The current results may help to heighten healthcare providers' awareness of body image perception among patients with an implanted LVAD.
Mindfulness, Anxiety Symptoms, and Quality of Life in Heart Failure
Authors: Rechenberg Kaitlyn , Cousin Lakeshia , Redwine Laura
Published: January 2020

Background

An estimated 6.5 million American adults live with heart failure (HF). Elevated anxiety symptoms may worsen HF symptoms and contribute to decreases in overall quality of life (QOL). Mindfulness has been associated with better psychological health with lower levels of anxiety symptoms. Mindfulness may be a modifiable target for reducing anxiety symptoms and increasing QOL in patients with HF.

Objective

The objective of this study is to examine the relationships among anxiety symptoms, dispositional mindfulness, and QOL in patients with symptomatic HF.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we conducted a secondary analysis of baseline data from 70 participants. We performed descriptive statistics, bivariate Pearson correlations, and multiple linear regression.

Results

The sample included 70 individuals with a mean age of 65 ± 10.5 years, 89% male, mean left ejection fraction of 45.7 ± 13.6, mean total QOL of 36.9 ± 21.7, mean total mindfulness of 82.2 ± 12.8, and mean anxiety of 4.8 ± 2.9. In multiple regression analyses, total mindfulness was significantly associated with lower anxiety (β = −0.491, P < .01), greater observational mindfulness was significantly associated with lower anxiety (β = −0.377, P < .01), and greater nonreactivity to inner experience was significantly associated with lower anxiety (β = −0.320, P < .05). Lower anxiety was associated with greater total QOL (β = 0.488, P < .01), greater physical QOL (β = 0.381, P < .01), and greater emotional QOL (β = 0.639, P < .01).

Conclusions

Mindfulness may be a way of improving both anxiety symptoms and QOL in this population.
Effects of a Comprehensive Reminder System Based on the Health Belief Model for Patients Who Have Had a Stroke on Health Behaviors, Blood Pressure, Disability, and Recurrence From Baseline to 6 Months
Authors: Wang Meng-Yao , Shen Meng-Jie , Wan Li-Hong , Mo Miao-Miao , Wu Zhen , Li Li-Li , Neidlinger Susan H.
Published: January 2020

Background

The health behaviors and blood pressure control of patients with hypertension who have had a stroke are unsatisfactory. A protocol of a comprehensive reminder system has been published, and the results of 3 months of implementation have demonstrated improved patient health behaviors and blood pressure control. The continuity of the intervention effect on these variables after 3 months was not clear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of a comprehensive reminder system intervention on health behaviors, medication adherence, blood pressure, disability, and stroke recurrence in patients with hypertension who have had a stroke from baseline to 6 months after discharge.

Method

A multicenter, assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 174 patients with hypertension who have had a stroke. The intervention consisted of health belief education, a calendar handbook, weekly short message services, and telephone interviews. Data were collected at baseline and at 3 and 6 months after discharge.

Results

Repeated-measures analysis of variance and single-effect analysis revealed that, compared with the control group, improvements of health behaviors, medication adherence, blood pressure, and disability of participants in the intervention group were superior. From 3 to 6 months after discharge, these trends remained or continually improved, whereas a downward trend was observed in the control group. There were only 2 stroke recurrences within 6 months, and no statistically significant difference between groups was found.

Conclusion

The comprehensive reminder system improved patients' health behaviors and medication adherence and reduced blood pressure and disability; the effect extended to 6 months after discharge.
Gender Differences in Hypertension Treatment and Control in Young Adults
Authors: KIM Ji-Soo , KIM Chul-Gyu
Published: January 2020

Background

Compared with older adults, young adults exhibit poor treatment and control of hypertension. However, little is known about the factors affecting the treatment and control of hypertension in young adults.

Purpose

This study was aimed to identify the factors affecting the treatment and control of hypertension in early adulthood by gender in South Korea.

Methods

This secondary data analysis study used a data set from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) 19–44 years old and (b) having an indicator of hypertension (systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg, or taking antihypertensive drugs). Seven hundred eighty participants were included in this study. The odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were derived using composite-sample multiple logistic regression.

Results

In men, age, marital status, family history of hypertension, treatment of hyperlipidemia, abdominal obesity, high-sodium diet, cholesterol, and aerobic exercise were found to be associated with hypertension treatment and control. In women, age, employment status, cardiovascular risk factors, body mass index, high-sodium diet, and drinking were found to be associated with hypertension treatment and control.

Conclusions

The factors affecting the treatment and control of hypertension differed between the two genders. Therefore, healthcare providers should consider the differences in the factors between the two genders in early adulthood. To improve the treatment and control of hypertension, the guidelines for treatment interventions and management should be gender-specific from early adulthood. Nurses should actively suggest health-related behavioral modifications such as performing aerobic exercise for young adult men and reducing alcohol consumption for women.
Per oral rat treatment with glyconjugate fractions of Genipa americana leaves protects thrombus formation
Authors: Madeira Juliana C. , Farias Luis A.S. , Luz Camila P. , Assreuy Ana M.S. , Pereira Maria G.
Published: January 2020

The current study evaluated the effect of the arabinogalactan-glycoconjugate fractions (FI and FII) isolated from Genipa americana leaves given per oral in rat hemostasis protocols. Rats received daily treatment with FI or FII during 7 days and were evaluated for coagulation, platelet aggregation, venous thrombosis and bleeding tendency 1 h after the last treatment. FII prolonged in 5.5-fold the rat plasma coagulation time (activated partial thromboplastin time test). FI inhibited by 46% the platelet aggregation. Both FI and FII prevented thrombus formation by 33 and 28%, respectively. However, the bleeding time was not altered by any fractions, showing an advantage in relation to acetylsalicylic acid or warfarin that increased the bleeding time in 3.6 and 2.9-fold, respectively. Per oral treatment with the arabinogalactan-glyconjugate fractions FI and FII of G. americana leaves in rats prevents thrombus formation, being devoid of hemorrhagic risk. These results bring novel therapeutic possibilities for thromboembolic diseases.