bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delinquent Firesetters: A Comparative Study of Delinquency and Firesetting Histories
Authors: Hanson Mark , Mackay-Soroka Sherri , Staley Shauna , Poulton Lori
Published: April 2017

Twenty-five male delinquents (aged nine to 16) who had legal charges for setting fires filed against them were compared to a group of age and sex matched delinquents who had legal charges filed against them that were not related to firesetting. Groups were compared on demographic variables and on their delinquency and fire related histories. The only significant difference to emerge was a higher proportion of past firesetting in the group with fire-related charges. The present results indicate that a subgroup of antisocial recidivist firesetters exists among young offenders and underscore the importance of obtaining a thorough fire related history from youth who are before the court on fire related charges.
Clozapine and Seizures: A Review
Authors: Toth Peter , Frankenburg Frances R.
Published: April 2017

Clozapine, a novel antipsychotic agent, is an alternative to standard neuroleptic therapy for psychotic disorders. Some advantages of clozapine over neuroleptics are that it may be a more effective antipsychotic in treatment resistant patients and has a lower incidence of extrapyramidal side effects. However, seizures associated with clozapine treatment occur at a rate of about three percent. Factors which seem to increase the likelihood of seizures include high doses of clozapine, rapid dose titration, the concurrent use of other epileptogenic agents and a previous history of neurological abnormalities. A strategy that has been proposed to reduce the occurrence of seizures is the addition of an anticonvulsant agent. At present, little rigorous scientific evidence exists to establish the effectiveness of this strategy or the choice of an anticonvulsant. However, based on what evidence there is and the side effect profiles of the various anticonvulsants, the authors propose the use of valproic acid for the prophylaxis and management of clozapine related seizures.
The Prevalence of Dementia in the Elderly: A Review
Authors: Rockwood Kenneth , Stadnyk Karen
Published: April 2017

We reviewed the findings of the Canadian Study of Health and Aging in the context of studies published between January 1986 and June 1993 that documented dementia and Alzheimer's disease prevalence. Studies were identified using a MEDLINE literature search. Additional references were selected from the bibliography of identified articles. Most reports of all types of dementia prevalence are within a narrow range for each of the age groups 65+, 75+ and 85+ years. By contrast, two recent reports on the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease have reported much higher estimates (10.3% and 15.3%) in the elderly (65+ years). A variety of threats to both validity and generalizability of the estimates are present in all studies. In community studies which employed clinical interviews most subjects were only mildly affected; the natural history of impairment of this group requires further study if the consequences of these findings are to be understood. There is important variability in the definition of the functional consequences of cognitive impairment in the elderly which affects both the diagnosis and staging of dementia.
Personality Diagnosis and Childhood Care Associated with Adult Marital Quality
Authors: Truant G.S.
Published: April 2017

This paper reports on a continuation of previous research into the connection between childhood experience of relationships and adult relationships such as marriage. A group of 41 married, mixed psychiatric patients showed the strongest correlations between adult marital quality as measured by the Marital Adjustment Test and mother care, same sex parent care or lowest caring parent care, as measured by the Parental Bonding Instrument. There was little correlation between childhood care and adult marital quality in both subgroups; one group was composed of 24 patients with Axis I diagnosis alone and the other group was composed of 17 patients with personality disorder. Married patients with personality disorder, almost all of whom had an Axis I diagnosis as well, did report lower levels of both childhood care and adult marital quality compared with patients with Axis I diagnoses and no personality disorder. The possible significance of these findings is discussed.
Prevalence of Pathological Gambling and Related Problems among College Students in the Quebec Metropolitan Area
Authors: Ladouceur Robert , Dubé Dominique , Bujold Annie
Published: April 2017

The prevalence of pathological gambling and problems associated with it were measured among 1,471 students of three colleges in the Quebec city metropolitan area. Almost 90% of the students had gambled and 21.7% of the students engage in this behaviour once a week or more. The prevalence of pathological gamblers was found to be 2.8% for the entire sample. The percentage of pathological gamblers was much higher among males (5.7%) than females (0.6%). The results indicate that pathological gambling is associated with economic, professional and interpersonal problems. The discussion addresses the implications of the present findings and suggests avenues for future research.
Severe Hypotension Associated with Combined Lithium and Chlorpromazine Therapy: a Case Report and a Review
Authors: Byrne Alan , Zibin Terry , Chimich William , Hnatko Gary
Published: April 2017

The case of a patient who developed a severe hypotensive reaction with a persistent hemianaesthesia following the addition of lithium carbonate to her treatment regimen is described. The patient had been receiving chlorpromazine therapy for the management of hypomania and the addition of lithium carbonate to the chlorpromazine produced a severe hypotensive episode which compromised her neurological functioning. Only three doses of lithium carbonate had actually been taken by the patient. This type of hypotensive response associated with the simultaneous use of chlorpromazine and lithium has not previously been noted in the literature.
Personality Disorder in the Elderly Depressed
Authors: Vine Ruth G. , Steingart Allan B.
Published: April 2017

The objectives of this study were to examine the association of personality disorder with outcome of depression in older patients (age ≥ 60) treated in a psychiatric day hospital for depression and to compare the clinical diagnosis of personality disorder at admission with the results of a semi-structured interview at follow-up. Sixty-four patients were followed up for a mean interval of 30 (13–49) months after admission to the psychiatric day hospital and the semi-structured interview, Social Support Scale, Life Events Inventory, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Mini-Mental State Examination administered by a psychiatrist blind to the details of the index admission. Forty-nine informants (a close friend or relative) were also interviewed using the semi-structured interview. Axis II diagnoses at the time of admission were determined from patient records. Personality disorder diagnoses were analysed according to DSM-III-R clusters. Twenty-one (33%) patients fulfilled criteria for personality disorder at admission and 23 (36%) at follow-up. There was strong agreement (k = 0.78) between patient and informant semi-structured interview results and moderate agreement (k = 0.41) between diagnosis at admission and at follow-up. Presence of a personality disorder, and in particular a cluster B personality disorder diagnosis was associated with chronic outcome of depression and with impaired social support. Personality is a significant factor in the outcome of depression in the elderly. It remains unclear whether current methods of assessment tap enduring characteristics, or manifestations of affective state.
Sexualité En Milieu Psychiatrique
Authors: Trudel Gilles , Desjardins Gilles
Published: April 2017

The main goal of this paper is to describe the problems associated with the expression of sexuality of patients in a psychiatric setting. The problem is analyzed according to the normalization principle. The staffs attitude is considered to be a determining factor in this situation. The authors present the principal conclusions of their study and make some practical recommendations.
The Psychometric Properties of the Competency Interview Schedule
Authors: Bean Graham , Nishisato Shizuhiko , Rector Neil A. , Glancy Graham
Published: April 2017

One of the most contentious issues in medical and legal practice is how to reliably assess the mental competence of individuals who consent or refuse psychiatric treatment. Current legislation does not provide clear definitions of what constitutes competence or incompetence to make a treatment decision. As a preliminary attempt to operationalize the concept of competency, we have developed a 15 item questionnaire. The present study reports on the psychometric properties of the instrument. Test-retest and interrater reliability results were good. The instrument was internally consistent and discriminated between individuals found competent and incompetent by the treating physician.
Children, Psychiatrists and the Courts: Understanding the Ambivalence of the Legal Profession: Part I - General Principles
Authors: Bala Nicholas
Published: April 2017

Psychiatrists and other mental health professionals are frequently involved as expert witnesses in court proceedings related to children and adolescents. Their testimony may be based on a therapeutic relationship, but frequently arises because of an assessment conducted specifically for the court process. This two part paper discusses some of the issues that arise when child psychiatrists are involved as expert witnesses in litigation, with specific focus on their role in child custody, sexual abuse and young offender cases. It also offers some practical advice for those who may be called as witnesses. There is controversy in the legal profession about the role of mental health professionals in the court process. While there is recognition of their expertise, there is also a concern about not wanting to have experts usurp the role of the courts. Legal professionals also question the “objectivity” of experts, and the reliability of their opinions. Frequently the opinions of psychiatrists about children and adolescents involved in litigation have inherently speculative and value based dimensions, and not “scientific”. Participation in the court process by mental health experts is nevertheless a vitally important role, providing information, analysis and recommendations about what are often very difficult societal decisions. Part two of this paper starts on page 531.
Symptom Attribution in Cultural Perspective*
Authors: Kirmayer Laurence J. , Young Allan , Robbins James M.
Published: April 2017

The explanatory model perspective of medical anthropology emphasizes the cultural shaping of individuals' efforts to make sense of their symptoms and suffering. Causal attribution is a pivotal cognitive process in this personal and social construction of meaning. Cultural variations in symptom attribution affect the pathogenesis, course, clinical presentation and outcome of psychiatric disorders. Research suggests that styles of attribution for common somatic symptoms may influence patients' tendency to somatize or psychologize psychiatric disorders in primary care. At the same time, symptom attributions are used to negotiate the sociomoral implications of illness. Recent work in social psychology and medical anthropology emphasizes the roots of attributional processes in bodily and social processes that are highly context-dependent, and hence, must be understood as part of the construction of a local world of meaning. Symptom attributions then may be understood as forms of positioning with both cognitive and social consequences relevant to psychiatric assessment and intervention.
The Future of Geriatric Psychiatry
Authors: Shulman Kennetth I.
Published: April 2017

The author first reviews some of the main forces and historical developments that have shaped the young specialty of geriatric psychiatry. Emphasis is placed on the integrative and collaborative nature of the psychiatry of old age. This includes its relationship with the parent field of psychiatry, geriatric medicine and the broader field of gerontology. An outline of the future for the field is presented which highlights the need for academic credibility and responsiveness to service delivery issues. Because future trends in mental health delivery are likely to continue to give priority to the severely mentally ill and to emphasize cost-effectiveness, geriatric psychiatrists are well poised to meet the challenges of the coming generation. However, a strong future depends ultimately on the ability of the field to recruit bright young psychiatrists who bring inquisitiveness, enthusiasm and a social commitment to a vulnerable elderly population.
A Treatment for Impulse Control Disorders and Paraphilia: A Case Report
Authors: Bradford John M.W. , Gratzer Thomas G.
Published: April 2017

An individual with pedophilia and trichotillomania was treated with sertraline. Despite a longstanding history of trichotillomania, his hair-pulling behaviour stopped. In addition, pedophilic impulses also remitted. This improvement was noted not only in terms of subjective reporting but also in terms of biological and physiological testing done before and after treatment.
Visual-Perceptual Abnormalities in Delusional Misidentification
Authors: Arturo Silva J. , Leong Gregory B.
Published: April 2017

Delusional misidentification syndromes are often found in conjunction with visual-perceptual abnormalities. These abnormalities appear to be independent of visual hallucinations and are illusory in nature. A case of delusional misidentification with visual-perceptual abnormalities is presented. Cognitive and visual phenomenology suggests that careful recording of visual abnormalities may shed light on the relation between delusional misidentification and abnormal visual cognition.
Alcohol and Polysubstance Abuse among Women
Authors: El-Guebaly Nady
Published: April 2017

A review of the literature in this relatively new field highlights the legitimacy of gender-specific research on substance abuse in women. Consistent findings compared to men include a higher physical vulnerability to alcohol, a higher risk of assortative mating, the reported association of traumatic events with the onset of substance abuse, a higher psychiatric comorbidity and a shorter interval between first problem and first treatment episode. Intravenous drug use remains the major source of growth of HIV infection among women. Family assessment and treatment as well as the involvement of female role models are critical to the recovery process. Gender-specific services may be recruiting women who might not otherwise have sought treatment for their substance abuse. Further investigation is required in order to distinguish the relative significance of the genetic versus environmental vulnerability of women, the impact of rapidly changing social mores on the onset, pattern and course of substance abuse, possible gender-specific alcohol typologies, the validity of the recall of traumatic events as well as the program variables required in reaching out and engaging women on the path to recovery.
Pedophilic Episodes in Middle Age and Senescence: An Intergenerational Encounter
Authors: Bruno M. Cormier , Fugère Renée , Thompson-Cooper Ingrid
Published: April 2017

The study of pedophilic episodes in later life shows how acting out in a particular emotional context can help the offender to reorganize his life. After reviewing 36 cases referred to the McGill Clinic in Forensic Psychiatry between 1980–1989, a previous history of offender victimization was found in 12 cases. Careful analysis of all the cases showed reactivation of conflict in their family of procreation in 34 cases. Various psychodynamic hypotheses are suggested through the longitudinal history of the perpetrator and the nature of the relationship between victim and perpetrator. Analysis of a longitudinal follow-up in 26 cases suggests that through various mechanisms of organization, disorganization and reorganization, the pedophilic episode represented an opportunity for these middle-aged and senescent pedophiles to resolve some issues underlying their pedophilic interests, leading to a higher level of maturity, thereby preventing relapse of pedophilic episodes.
Battered Woman Syndrome Defense in Canadian Courts
Authors: Regehr Cheryl , Glancy Graham
Published: April 2017

As a result of a 1990 Supreme Court of Canada decision, battered woman syndrome defense is now accepted as a legitimate extension of self-defense in Canadian courts. This defense hinges on the expert testimony that a battered woman who is accused of murder or aggravated assault suffers from the psychological sequelae of abuse and that this psychological distress contributes to her apprehension of danger and ultimately her apprehension of death during a particular battering episode. The authors present a brief overview of the history of battered woman syndrome defense, the role of the expert in assessing the applicability of this defense in any particular situation, and the pitfalls of using battered woman syndrome defense.
Attachment Organization and Adaptation in Sexually-Abused Women
Authors: Carol A. Stalker , Davies Felicity
Published: April 2017

Objective

To explore the possible associations among attachment organization, current functioning and Axis II personality disorder.

Method

Attachment organization was assessed using the Adult Attachment Interview in a clinical sample of 40 women with a history of childhood sexual abuse. The Global Assessment Scale yielded measures of current psychosocial functioning and the Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnosis on DSM-III-R was used to assess presence of personality disorder.

Results

Preoccupation with attachment issues was evident in 68% of the subjects; 60% of the subjects were unresolved in respect to loss and/or trauma: and 88% of the subjects met criteria for one or more Axis II disorders. A relationship between Borderline Personality Disorder and the Unresolved attachment classification is suggested.

Conclusions

Women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse require intervention that focuses on resolution of trauma and loss and responds to individual differences in attitudes toward attachment issues.
Child Psychiatric Epidemiology: Current Status and Future Prospects
Authors: David R. Offord
Published: April 2017

Objective

The purpose of this paper is to present selected findings from child psychiatric epidemiology in areas of prevalence and correlates, and discuss issues in interpreting these data and their relevance.

Method

Selected references were used.

Results

Prevalence rates of 1 or more child psychiatric disorders in nonclinical community samples of children and adolescents vary between 17.6% and 22%. Issues in interpreting these data include: the boundary between normal and abnormal, boundary between disorders, disagreement among informants, and problems with instrumentation. Knowledge about the correlates of child psychiatric disorders is quite extensive, but information on causal factors is relatively sparse.

Conclusions

Findings in child psychiatric epidemiology are relevant to clinicians, and future emphasis in the field will be on prospective studies with multiple waves of data from different domains including the child, the family, the school, and the wider community.
Mendacious Moms or Devious Dads? Some Perplexing Issues in Child Custody/Sexual Abuse Allegation Disputes
Authors: Susan Penfold P
Published: April 2017

Objective

To explore relevant literature about sexual abuse allegations arising in child custody disputes.

Method

A literature review of false allegations is given and the contribution of gender bias to this issue is discussed. The role a child psychiatrist may play in such cases is outlined.

Results

Contrary to much popular and professional opinion, sexual abuse allegations are found in only 2% of child custody disputes, and, of these, 8% to 16.5% are false. While false allegations arise for a variety of reasons, the word “false” can imply both erroneous and deceitful activities. This ambiguity, along with gender bias, may lead to disbelief of, and blame towards, parents who report sexual abuse in the context of a dispute about custody or access.

Conclusion

The child psychiatrist who testifies in such custody disputes should have caution, humility, and an open mind both in the courtroom and in dealing with other professionals working in this area.
A Case-Control Study of Corticosteroid Exposure as a Risk Factor for Clinically-Diagnosed Depressive Disorders in a Hospitalized Population
Authors: Scott B Patten , Jeanne Va Williams , Edgar J Love
Published: April 2017

Objective

Depressive symptoms may be a side effect of exogenous corticosteroids. However, the literature does not confirm that corticosteroid exposure is associated with the occurrence of depressive disorders. The objective of this study was to determine whether or not corticosteroid exposures are associated with clinical diagnoses of depressive disorders in hospitalized patients.

Method

The study used a case-control design. Cases and 2 control groups were selected from a health records case summary database maintained at the Calgary General Hospital. Additional data were collected by chart review.

Results

The analysis reproduced associations between depressive diagnoses and several psychosocial and biological risk factors. However, the data did not suggest that corticosteroids were associated with an elevated risk of depressive diagnoses. In fact, odds ratios for corticosteroid exposure were less than 1, consistent with a protective effect.

Conclusions

Although corticosteroids may produce depressive symptoms as a side effect, corticosteroid exposures are not associated with an elevated risk of clinically diagnosed depressive disorders in hospitalized patients. There are several possible explanations for this. Depressive syndromes associated with corticosteroid exposure may not clinically resemble depressive disorders, and may not warrant a diagnosis of a depressive disorder. Alternatively, clinicians may not identify and formally diagnose depressive disorders caused by corticosteroids.
Interpersonal Disorder in Schizoid and Avoidant Personality Disorders: An Attachment Perspective
Authors: West Malcolm , Sarah Rose M , Sheldon-Keller Adrienne
Published: April 2017

Objective

To investigate the characteristics related to avoidant attachment of 13 schizoid/avoidant psychiatric outpatients and 20 nonschizoid/avoidant psychiatric outpatients.

Method

Three scales (“maintains distance in relationships”, “high priority on self-sufficiency” and “attachment relationship is a threat to security”) differentiated schizoid and avoidant personality disordered patients from other personality disordered patients.

Results

The results are discussed in terms of the attachment and DSM diagnostic models of avoidant styles in relationships.

Conclusion

The 2 groups of schizoid and avoidant personality disordered patients were not significantly different on the desire for close affectional bonds scale.
Brief Psychiatric Hospitalization: Preliminary Experience with an Urban Short-Stay Unit
Authors: Mok Hiram , Watler Crosbie
Published: April 2017

Objective

To present data from the recently implemented psychiatric short-stay units (SSUs) in metro Halifax. There are few data describing SSUs and factors associated with successful outcome.

Method

A 4-month retrospective chart review of 124 patients.

Results

Patients tended to be single, unemployed young adults, with a past history of psychiatric admission. Most patients were admitted voluntarily. There was an equal sex ratio. Mean length of stay for all patients was 2.5 days. Adjustment disorder was the diagnosis most responisble for admission.

Conclusion

Many psychiatric inpatients may benefit from brief hospitalization. Brief hospitalization results in reduced health care costs.
Stayin' Alive: An Introduction to Survival Analysis
Authors: Streiner David L
Published: April 2017

In some studies, the outcome of interest is the time until some event occurs: readmission to hospital, the next manic episode, or even death. Survival analysis is a techique which can be used to analyze such data. It has added usefulness because it allows us to use data from subjects who drop out of sight over the course of the follow-up period as well as from those who do not experience the event by the time the study ends. This article introduces this technique and provides some guidelines for designing follow-up trials.
Dangerosité Et Obligations Du Thérapeute: Perspective Canadienne
Authors: Melançon Geoffroy , Aubut Et Jocelyn
Published: April 2017

Objective

To clarify the position Canadian therapists must adopt regarding their obligation to protect others against patients' potentially violent actions. This obligation is based on jurisprudence which has been well established in the United States since the Tarasoff case, but which does not apply in Canada.

Method

A review of jurisprudence in Canada and recent clinical recommendations. The latter are then discussed in the Canadian context and followed by a range of suggested avenues to explore.

Conclusion

Professional standards could be established but they should be reviewed on a regular basis and allow flexibility for clinicians.
Small Area Variation in the Utilization of Mental Health Services: Implications for Health Planning and Allocation of Resources
Authors: Kelly Ann , Jones Wayne
Published: April 2017

Objective

To determine the variables associated with utilization of mental health services and to develop a planning model to predict service utilization that incorporates these factors.

Method

A regression analysis of service utilization and demographic characteristics was used to assess the relative importance of alternative service, supply of psychiatrists and demographics in explaining variations of services use. A model using socioeconomic factors was applied to the population to predict need.

Results

The percentage of divorced males was the only factor significantly and positively correlated with the utilization of hospital inpatient and provincial psychiatric beds. Predicted need exceeds utilization in 7 out of 10 areas for all services.

Conclusions

Small area variations in inpatient psychiatric utilization is correlated with community characteristics, not supply of psychiatrists or utilization of alternative services. A model has been developed using census data to allocate resources according to need.
Integration of Psychiatric Rehabilitation in the Long-Term Management of Schizophrenia
Authors: Peter J. Prenderqast
Published: April 2017

Psychiatric rehabilitation has been found to be a worthwhile conceptual framework in the long-term management of schizophrenia. It involves both pharmacotherapy and various psychosocial treatments. Psychiatric rehabilitation allows the treatment team to organize a comprehensive therapy plan for patients. This paper reviews the literature on psychiatric rehabilitation and describes an example of the practical application of these theories.
Working with Schizophrenia: A Clinician's Personal Experience
Authors: Joel Jeffries J.
Published: April 2017

There are few mental illnesses that have as profound an effect on individuals and their families as schizophrenia. The management of patients with schizophrenia requires the clinician to be aware of the wide range of outcomes and the multiple facets of management that can be used. This article examines the variety of ways in which the physician can work with patients with schizophrenia to help them achieve their full potential.
Neuroleptic Dosing and Neuroleptic Plasma Levels in Schizophrenia: Determining the Optimal Regimen
Authors: Shriqui Christian L
Published: April 2017

Objective:

To recommend dose range and therapeutic plasma concentration for several neuroleptics, and to discuss conditions under which neuroleptic plasma levels are clinically useful.

Method:

Neuroleptic drug therapy is a major component of the acute and maintenance treatment of schizophrenia. However, there is no consensus on what constitutes an appropriate or optimal dose of antipsychotic drug in individual patients. Low-dose medication has the potential to improve psychosocial function and reduces the frequency of side effects but can lead to an increase in positive symptoms and schizophrenic relapse. High doses may be associated with behavioural toxicity, symptom exacerbation, a worsening of secondary deficit symptoms, impaired social functioning and increased adverse effects such as acute extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia. Numerous clinical studies have attempted to determine the degree of correlation between dose, neuroleptic blood levels, and clinical response.

Results:

To date, this approach has met with only limited success: neuroleptic dose overall appears to be a poor predictor of clinical outcome, and the suggested therapeutic plasma level concentrations of some antipsychotic drugs cannot be regarded as established by any means. Furthermore, the ability to conduct neuroleptic plasma levels is not readily accessible in the usual clinical setting. In the acute treatment phase, titrating the dose until the onset of minimal cogwheel rigidity or hypokinesia (neuroleptic threshold dose) has met with some success and is preferable to standard dosing as a means of individualizing pharmacotherapy. During the maintenance phase, a slow and gradual dosage reduction with adjunctive psychosocial and psychotherapeutic intervention is the preferred strategy.

Conclusion:

Reinforcing patient and physician compliance is a key element in achieving an optimal treatment regimen.
All-cellulose composite laminates prepared from pineapple leaf fibers treated with steam explosion and alkaline treatment
Authors: Tanpichai Supachok , Witayakran Suteera
Published: April 2017

Pineapple leaf fibers with diameters of 43 ± 0.1 µm were treated by two different approaches: the alkaline treatment and the combination of the steam explosion and alkaline treatment. The observations revealed the steam explosion process efficiently provided 3.4 µm diameter fibers with a less amount of lignin and a higher proportion of cellulose, compared with the alkaline-treated fibers. The steam-exploded fibers showed higher crystallinity and more thermal stabilities than the alkaline-treated fibers. No structural change from cellulose I to cellulose II was detected from both treated pineapple leaf fibers. Subsequently, all-cellulose composite laminates were prepared from these two types of treated pineapple leaf fibers mats. The higher tensile strength and modulus were obtained from the steam-exploded pineapple leaf fibers composite laminates due to larger surface areas of the fibers interacted with the cellulose matrix. Fracture morphology of the composites was studied after tensile deformation. The combination mechanism of fiber breakage and fiber pull-out deformation was observed from the steam-exploded pineapple leaf fibers composite laminates, whereas only fiber pull-out mechanism was found from the alkaline-treated pineapple leaf fibers composite laminates. The fiber width and amounts of the matrix filling in pores in a mat were found to dominate the mechanical properties of the all-cellulose composites.
Utilization of Thoracic Ultrasound for Confirmation of Central Venous Catheter Placement and Exclusion of Pneumothorax: A Novel Technique in Real-Time Application
Authors: Raman Dileep , Sharma Manish , Moghekar Ajit , Wang Xiaofeng , Hatipoğlu Umur
Published: April 2017

Aim:

To evaluate the safety and utility of ultrasonography as a tool to confirm central venous catheter (CVC) position and to exclude insertion-related pneumothorax in place of chest radiography (CXR) in a tertiary medical intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods:

We randomized 60 consecutive medical ICU patients to conventional or ultrasound groups for CVC placement. Both groups had CVCs inserted under ultrasound guidance. The intervention group underwent real-time transthoracic echocardiography to assist in catheter positioning and chest ultrasonography for exclusion of pneumothorax. Our primary end point was reduction in CXR use. The secondary end point was time elapsed from the end of procedure to the availability of CVC for use. χ2 test was used to compare the 2 groups for the primary end point. T test was used to compare the 2 groups for the secondary end point.

Results:

Thirty patients were randomized to the conventional group and 30 were randomized to the ultrasound group. One patient was excluded in the control group since the procedure needed to be aborted. Patient characteristics were well matched for age, body mass index, and acute physiologic assessment and chronic health evaluation (APACHE III) scores. There was a 56.7% ( P < .0001) reduction in CXR use in the ultrasound arm. Mean time to use was 53.6 minutes in the control group and 25 minutes in the ultrasound arm ( P = .0015). Mean time required to complete the procedure was 27.7 minutes in the control group and 24.1 minutes in the ultrasound group ( P = .2053). No pneumothorax was detected in either arm.

Conclusion:

Ultrasound-guided CVC placement and positioning with a minor modification in technique reduced the use of bedside CXR and reduced the time to use of the CVC.
Novel Route of Sirolimus Administration in a Neonate
Authors: Clark Ashley B. , Chandrasekar Indira , Nickleson Jennee
Published: April 2017

A term newborn presented with widespread cutaneous erythematous to bluish lesions since birth. He had extensive lesions in the gastrointestinal tract, brain, retina, heart, and bones. He also developed an intestinal perforation due to erosion of an intestinal lesion. Due to his critical status and clinical presentation, he was initially diagnosed with multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia (MLT), and sirolimus treatment was initiated. Sirolimus was given by buccal route in this nonfeeding patient. Therapeutic serum levels were obtained comparable to enteral administration. Buccal mucosa was an effective novel route of sirolimus administration in this patient.
Bending of lightweight circular tubes
Authors: Mastinu G , Previati G , Gobbi M
Published: April 2017

The concept design (sizing) of thin-walled tubes subject to bending is dealt by resorting to rigorous design principles pertaining to engineering science. Multi-objective optimization is the proper theory that has been exploited. Minimum mass and maximum stiffness (minimum compliance) are the optimization objectives. Safety (admissible stress), stability (buckling), available room (external radius of the tube), and thickness of the tube (arising from technological issues) are introduced as constraints. Linear elastic theory is used. Optimal solutions are given in analytical form for a prompt use by designers. Such optimal solutions refer both to the objectives (mass and compliance) and to the design variables (radius and thickness of the tube). The best attainable lightweight design is discussed as a function of the constraints. In particular, given the upper and lower bounds for radius and thickness respectively, three candidate optimal solutions are addressed in the paper for concept design purposes. The comparative lightweight design of tubes made from different materials is presented. Contrary with respect to the reputation of aluminum for effective lightweight construction, steel can be the best choice, when the available room has to be saturated.
Decoding images: Toward a theory of pictorial framing
Authors: Abdel-Raheem Ahmed
Published: April 2017

Using data from the Egyptian public discourse on the United States, this article lays out the foundation for building a general theory of pictorial framing. In this theory, at the most general level, the concept of pictorial framing refers to subtle alterations in the visual presentation of judgment and choice problems. Specifically, pictures are viewed as constructions, and pictorial meaning is seen as an intricate web of connected frames. The article thus adopts the view that a visual grammar is part of cognitive science and is fundamentally concerned with the relation between what goes on in the human mind and manifestations of this activity. The article draws on insights from blending model (Fauconnier and Turner, 2002), Relevance Theory (Sperber and Wilson, 1995) and frame semantics (Fillmore, 1985), discussing a large corpus of 90 multimodal cartoons on the United States.
Role of greenhouse gases in climate change
Authors: Hertzberg Martin , Siddons Alan , Schreuder Hans
Published: April 2017

This study examines the concept of ‘greenhouse gases’ and various definitions of the phenomenon known as the ‘Atmospheric Radiative Greenhouse Effect’. The six most quoted descriptions are as follows: (a) radiation trapped between the Earth’s surface and its atmosphere; (b) the insulating blanket of the atmosphere that keeps the Earth warm; (c) back radiation from the atmosphere to the Earth’s surface; (d) Infra Red absorbing gases that hinder radiative cooling and keep the surface warmer than it would otherwise be – known as ‘otherwise radiation’; (e) differences between actual surface temperatures of the Earth (as also observed on Venus) and those based on calculations; (f) any gas that absorbs infrared radiation emitted from the Earth’s surface towards free space. It is shown that none of the above descriptions can withstand the rigours of scientific scrutiny when the fundamental laws of physics and thermodynamics are applied to them.
Rosuvastatin ameliorates cognitive impairment in rats fed with high-salt and cholesterol diet via inhibiting acetylcholinesterase activity and amyloid beta peptide aggregation
Authors: Husain I , Akhtar M , Abdin M Zainul , Islamuddin M , Shaharyar M , Najmi AK
Published: April 2017

Amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide aggregation and cholinergic neurodegeneration are involved in the development of cognitive impairment. Therefore, in this article, we examined rosuvastatin (RSV), an oral hypolipidemic drug, to determine its potential as a dual inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and Aβ peptide aggregation for the treatment of cognitive impairment. Molecular docking study was done to examine the affinity of RSV with Aβ1–42 and AChE in silico. We also employed neurobehavioral activity tests, biochemical estimation, and histopathology to study the anti-Aβ1–42 aggregation capability of RSV in vivo. Molecular docking study provided evidence that RSV has the best binding conformer at its receptor site or active site of an enzyme. The cognitive impairment in female Wistar rats was induced by high-salt and cholesterol diet (HSCD) ad libitum for 8 weeks. RSV ameliorated serum cholesterol level, AChE activity, and Aβ1–42 peptide aggregations in HSCD induced cognitive impairment. In addition, RSV-treated rats showed greater scores in the open field (locomotor activity) test. Moreover, the histopathological studies in the hippocampus and cortex of rat brain also supported that RSV markedly reduced the cognitive impairment and preserved the normal histoarchitectural pattern of the hippocampus and cortex. Taken together, these data indicate that RSV may act as a dual inhibitor of AChE and Aβ1–42 peptide aggregation, therefore suggesting a therapeutic strategy for cognitive impairment treatment.
Open Region: Creating and exploiting opportunities for innovation at the regional scale
Authors: Schmidt Suntje , Müller Felix C , Ibert Oliver , Brinks Verena
Published: April 2017

The starting point of the article is the observation of an increasing convergence of regional development and innovation policies. These policies are heavily influenced by territorial innovation models that have been extensively revised since they first came about over 30 years ago. Yet, more recent trends towards digitalisation and conceptual advances towards a time-spatial perspective on innovation processes require a more fundamental re-thinking of the nexus of development, innovation policies and territoriality. This paper therefore aims to advance an agenda for reconceptualising region-based innovation policies beyond the assumptions of territoriality implicit in territorial innovations models and related policy schemes. “Open Region” is a heuristic way of thinking about proactive policy measures for redesigning the dialectic interplay between territorial openness and closure. These measures, in essence, aim at creating and exploiting opportunities for innovation within a region by mobilising external expertise and establishing local anchors for innovation. Finally, we address the limitations of applicability and discuss incentives for regional actors to embark on Open Region strategies. The suggested measures can work together, yet it is also possible to utilise them in an eclectic manner or to selectively recombine them in order to address different local conditions.
How CSR Affects Brand Equity of Indian Firms?
Authors: Singh Anupam , Verma Priyanka
Published: April 2017

Studies in the developed economies report that corporate social responsibility (CSR) has effect on brand’s performance. However, there is a dearth of such studies in developing economies like India. Therefore, this study attempts to examine the nexus of CSR and brand equity (BE) in Indian business perspective. For the purpose of this study, questionnaire-based online survey was conducted to collect the empirical data. Structural equation modelling (SEM) technique using AMOS 22.0 was utilized to test structural model. Results indicate that firm’s CSR activities have positive effect on its BE. However, brand awareness, brand image, brand loyalty and purchase intention mediate the CSR and BE relationship. This study adds to the existing CSR literature theoretically and also offers the managerial implications. The findings of this study would help the companies to renovate their management strategies from traditional profit oriented to socially responsible business approach for sustainable business performance.
A Comprehensive Framework for Implementing an Effective Employer Brand Strategy
Authors: Deepa R  , Baral Rupashree
Published: April 2017

Employer brand strategy design and implementation are crucial for any organization, given the challenge of talent attraction and retention. Employer branding creates a sustainable relationship between an organization and its potential and existing employees by creating values for individuals, organization and the society at large. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using a Business Model Canvas (BMC) template to map the employer brand strategy of an organization. The second objective was to use a survey research to map the elements of BMC such as value propositions and communication channels for the target employees who were the prospective talent pool. Other elements of BMC were explained based on the understanding of employer branding practices in Indian organizations.
Curcumin increases the sensitivity of Paclitaxel-resistant NSCLC cells to Paclitaxel through microRNA-30c-mediated MTA1 reduction
Authors: Lu Yimin , Wang Jun , Liu Lei , Yu Lequn , Zhao Nian , Zhou Xingju , Lu Xudong
Published: April 2017

Non-small-cell lung cancer is one of the most lethal cancers in the worldwide. Although Paclitaxel-based combinational therapies have long been used as a standard treatment in aggressive non-small-cell lung cancers, Paclitaxel resistance emerges as a major clinical problem. It has been demonstrated that Curcumin from Curcuma longa as a traditional Chinese medicine can inhibit cancer cell proliferation. However, the role of Curcumin in Paclitaxel-resistant non-small-cell lung cancer cells is not clear. In this study, we investigated the effect of Curcumin on the Paclitaxel-resistant non-small-cell lung cancer cells and found that Curcumin treatment markedly increased the sensitivity of Paclitaxel-resistant non-small-cell lung cancer cells to Paclitaxel. Mechanically, the study revealed that Curcumin could reduce the expression of metastasis-associated gene 1 (MTA1) gene through upregulation of microRNA-30c in Paclitaxel-resistant non-small-cell lung cancer cells. During the course, MTA1 reduction sensitized Paclitaxel-resistant non-small-cell lung cancer cells and enhanced the effect of Paclitaxel. Taken together, our studies indicate that Curcumin increases the sensitivity of Paclitaxel-resistant non-small-cell lung cancer cells to Paclitaxel through microRNA-30c-mediated MTA1 reduction. Curcumin might be a potential adjuvant for non-small-cell lung cancer patients during Paclitaxel treatment.
Effect of irinotecan on HMGB1, MMP9 expression, cell cycle, and cell growth in breast cancer (MCF-7) cells
Authors: Keyvani-Ghamsari Saeedeh , Rabbani-Chadegani Azra , Sargolzaei Javad , Shahhoseini Maryam
Published: April 2017

Irinotecan is a natural alkaloid agent widely used in cancer therapy. High-mobility group protein B1 as a non-histone chromosomal protein plays a fundamental role in gene expression and inflammation. In this study, the effect of irinotecan on high-mobility group protein B1 and MMP9 content, gene expression, cell cycle, and cell growth in human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) was investigated. The cells were exposed to various concentrations of irinotecan and the viability determined by trypan blue exclusion and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazal-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays. High-mobility group B proteins were extracted from the control and drug-treated cells and analyzed by immunoblot. High-mobility group protein B1 and MMP9 messenger RNA expression was studied by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The results demonstrated reduction of cell viability upon increasing irinotecan concentration, up-regulated high-mobility group protein B1 gene expression, and down-regulated MMP9 mRNA. Although the content of high-mobility group protein B1 was decreased in chromatin extract upon drug action, no high-mobility group protein B1 release to extracellular space was detected by immunoblot analysis. Irinotecan decreased H3K9 acetylation and increased poly ADP-ribose polymerase fragmentation to 89 kDa and anion superoxide production suggesting induction of apoptosis in these cells. Propidium iodide staining of the cells 24 h after the drug treatment revealed arrest of the cells in S-phase. From the results, it is concluded that overexpression of high-mobility group protein B1 in the presence of irinotecan precedes breast cancer cells into apoptosis and in this response the binding of irinotecan to chromatin or high-mobility group protein B1 may condense/aggregate chromatin, preventing high-mobility group protein B1 release from chromatin.