bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversal of Arterial Stiffness and Maladaptative Arterial Remodeling After Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Karras Alexandre , Boutouyrie Pierre , Briet Marie , Bozec Erwan , Haymann Jean‐Philippe , Legendre Christophe , McMahon Lawrence P. , Delahousse Michel
Published: September 2017

Background

Chronic kidney disease is characterized by stiffening, thinning, dilatation, and increased circumferential wall stress of large arteries, associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Kidney transplantation (
KT
) reverses many pathological features of chronic kidney disease and improves life expectancy; however, longitudinal studies exploring the impact of
KT
on recipient large arteries are scarce.

Methods and Results

This study was designed to appraise arterial changes following
KT
. Carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity, carotid remodeling (circumferential wall stress and carotid internal diameter), and stiffness were measured in 161 consecutive recipients receiving either a living (n=49) or a deceased (n=112) donor allograft, at 3 and 12 months after transplantation. Mean pulse wave velocity decreased from 10.8 m/s (95% confidence interval, 10.5–11.2 m/s) (at month 3) to 10.1 m/s (95% confidence interval, 9.8–10.5 m/s) (at month 12) (
P
<0.001). After multivariate adjustment, pulse wave velocity reduction from month 3 to month 12 was significantly larger in the living donor allograft
KT
(
P
<0.001). Circumferential wall stress decreased, 70 kPa (95% confidence interval, 68–72 kPa) to 64 kPa (95% confidence interval, 62–67 kPa), as well as carotid internal diameter and carotid stiffness (
P
<0.001 for all). Reductions in circumferential wall stress, diameter, and stiffness were significantly larger in the living donor allograft
KT
(
P
<0.001). When deceased donor allograft patients were classified into standard and expanded criteria donors, changes in both pulse wave velocity and circumferential wall stress were blunted in expanded criteria donors. Changes were independent of graft function and blood pressure changes.

Conclusions

Large‐artery stiffness and maladaptive carotid artery remodeling of chronic kidney disease is partially reversed within 12 months of
KT
and appears unrelated to renal function. Improvements were independently associated with live organ donation. Our data suggest that expanded criteria donors may hamper vascular recovery.
Inorganic Nitrate in Angina Study: A Randomized Double‐Blind Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Schwarz Konstantin , Singh Satnam , Parasuraman Satish K. , Rudd Amelia , Shepstone Lee , Feelisch Martin , Minnion Magdalena , Ahmad Shakil , Madhani Melanie , Horowitz John , Dawson Dana K. , Frenneaux Michael P.
Published: September 2017

Background

In this double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled crossover trial, we investigated whether oral sodium nitrate, when added to existing background medication, reduces exertional ischemia in patients with angina.

Methods and Results

Seventy patients with stable angina, positive electrocardiogram treadmill test, and either angiographic or functional test evidence of significant ischemic heart disease were randomized to receive oral treatment with either placebo or sodium nitrate (600 mg; 7 mmol) for 7 to 10 days, followed by a 2‐week washout period before crossing over to the other treatment (n=34 placebo‐nitrate, n=36 nitrate‐placebo). At baseline and at the end of each treatment, patients underwent modified Bruce electrocardiogram treadmill test, modified Seattle Questionnaire, and subgroups were investigated with dobutamine stress, echocardiogram, and blood tests. The primary outcome was time to 1 mm
ST
depression on electrocardiogram treadmill test. Compared with placebo, inorganic nitrate treatment tended to increase the primary outcome exercise time to 1 mm
ST
segment depression (645.6 [603.1, 688.0] seconds versus 661.2 [6183, 704.0] seconds,
P
=0.10) and significantly increased total exercise time (744.4 [702.4, 786.4] seconds versus 760.9 [719.5, 802.2] seconds,
P
=0.04; mean [95% confidence interval]). Nitrate treatment robustly increased plasma nitrate (18.3 [15.2, 21.5] versus 297.6 [218.4, 376.8] μmol/L,
P
<0.0001) and almost doubled circulating nitrite concentrations (346 [285, 405] versus 552 [398, 706] nmol/L,
P
=0.003; placebo versus nitrate treatment). Other secondary outcomes were not significantly altered by the intervention. Patients on antacid medication appeared to benefit less from nitrate supplementation.

Conclusions

Sodium nitrate treatment may confer a modest exercise capacity benefit in patients with chronic angina who are taking other background medication.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/
. Unique identifier:
NCT
02078921. Eudra
CT
number: 2012‐000196‐17.
White Matter Hyperintensity Volume and Outcome of Mechanical Thrombectomy With Stentriever in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Atchaneeyasakul Kunakorn , Leslie-Mazwi Thabele , Donahue Kathleen , Giese Anne-Katrin , Rost Natalia S.
Published: September 2017

Background and Purpose—

Finding of white matter hyperintensity (WMH) has been associated with an increased risk of parenchymal hematoma and poor clinical outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy using old-generation endovascular devices. Currently, no data exist with regard to the risk of mechanical thrombectomy using stentriever devices in patients with significant WMH. We hypothesized that WMH volume will not affect the hemorrhagic and clinical outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing thrombectomy using new-generation devices.

Methods—

A retrospective cohort of consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients >18-year-old receiving mechanical thrombectomy with stentriever devices at a single academic center was examined. WMH volume was assessed by a semiautomated volumetric analysis on T2 fluid attenuated inversion recovery–magnetic resonance imaging. Outcomes included the rate of any intracerebral hemorrhage, 90-day modified Rankin Score (mRS), the rate of good outcome (discharge mRS ≤2), and the rate of successful reperfusion (thrombolysis in cerebral ischemia score 2b or 3).

Results—

Between June 2012 and December 2015, 56 patients with acute ischemic stroke met the study criteria. Median WMH volume was 6.76 cm
3
(4.84–16.09 cm
3
). Increasing WMH volume did not significantly affect the odds of good outcome (odds ratio [OR], 0.811; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.456–1.442), intracerebral hemorrhage (OR, 1.055; 95% CI, 0.595–1.871), parenchymal hematoma (OR, 0.353; 95% CI, 0.061–2.057), successful recanalization (OR, 1.295; 95% CI, 0.704–2.383), or death (OR, 1.583; 95% CI, 0.84–2.98).

Conclusions—

Mechanical thrombectomy using stentrievers seems to be safe in selected patients with acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion, nonwithstanding the severity of WMH burden in this population. Larger prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings.
Minocycline in Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Fouda Abdelrahman Y. , Newsome Andrea S. , Spellicy Samantha , Waller Jennifer L. , Zhi Wenbo , Hess David C. , Ergul Adviye , Edwards David J. , Fagan Susan C. , Switzer Jeffrey A.
Published: September 2017

Background and Purpose—

Minocycline is under investigation as a neurovascular protective agent for stroke. This study evaluated the pharmacokinetic, anti-inflammatory, and safety profile of minocycline after intracerebral hemorrhage.

Methods—

This study was a single-site, randomized controlled trial of minocycline conducted from 2013 to 2016. Adults ≥18 years with primary intracerebral hemorrhage who could have study drug administered within 24 hours of onset were included. Patients received 400 mg of intravenous minocycline, followed by 400 mg minocycline oral daily for 4 days. Serum concentrations of minocycline after the last oral dose and biomarkers were sampled to determine the peak concentration, half-life, and anti-inflammatory profile.

Results—

A total of 16 consecutive eligible patients were enrolled, with 8 randomized to minocycline. Although the literature supports a time to peak concentration (T
max
) of 1 hour for oral minocycline, the T
max
was estimated to be at least 6 hours in this cohort. The elimination half-life (available on 7 patients) was 17.5 hours (SD±3.5). No differences were observed in inflammatory biomarkers, hematoma volume, or perihematomal edema. Concentrations remained at neuroprotective levels (>3 mg/L) throughout the dosing interval in 5 of 7 patients.

Conclusions—

In intracerebral hemorrhage, a 400 mg dose of minocycline was safe and achieved neuroprotective serum concentrations. However, oral administration led to delayed absorption in these critically ill patients and should not be used when rapid, high concentrations are desired. Given the safety and pharmacokinetic profile of minocycline in intracerebral hemorrhage and promising data in the treatment of ischemic stroke, intravenous minocycline is an excellent candidate for a prehospital treatment trial.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01805895.
Lower antioxidant capacity in the prefrontal cortex of individuals with schizophrenia
Authors: Zhang Yiru , Catts Vibeke Sørensen , Shannon Weickert Cynthia
Published: September 2017

Objective:

The glutathione (GSH) pathway is the main antioxidant system to protect against oxidative stress in the human brain. In this study, we tested whether molecular components of the GSH antioxidant system are changed in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex tissue from people with schizophrenia compared to controls.

Method:

The levels of total glutathione and reduced GSH were determined by fluorometric assay via quantifying thiols in extracts from frontal cortex of 68 people. Immunoblotting was used to measure levels of enzymes responsible for maintaining GSH, the glutamyl-cysteine ligase (GCL) catalytic subunit (GCLC) and the GSH peroxidase (GPx)-like protein ( n = 74). Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to measure GCLC messenger RNA (mRNA) expression.

Results:

Both total glutathione ( t(66) = 2.467, p = 0.016) and reduced GSH ( t(66) = 3.001, p = 0.004) levels were significantly less in people with schizophrenia than in controls. However, there were no significant differences in either GCLC-like protein ( t(72) = −1.077, p = 0.285) or GCLC mRNA expression ( t(71) = −0.376, p = 0.708) between people with schizophrenia and control subjects. There was also no significant difference of GPx-like protein levels between schizophrenia and controls ( t(72) = −0.060, p = 0.952). Moreover, no significant correlations of putative confounding factors with GSH changes were detected.

Discussion:

These results suggest that people with schizophrenia have impaired GSH antioxidant capacity, alongside normal levels of key regulatory proteins.
Treating body, treating mind: The experiences of people with psychotic disorders and their general practitioners – Findings from the Australian National Survey of High Impact Psychosis
Authors: Waterreus Anna , Morgan Vera A
Published: September 2017

Objectives:

To describe from the perspective of people living with psychotic illness their use of general practitioner services over a 12-month period and the experiences, attitudes and challenges general practitioners face providing health care to this population.

Methods:

A two-phase design was used. Phase 1, screening for psychosis, occurred in public specialised mental health services and non-government organisations within seven catchment sites across Australia. In Phase 2, 1825 people who were screened positive for psychosis were randomly selected for interview which included questions about frequency and reason for general practitioner contact in the 12 months prior to interview. General practitioners (1473) of consenting participants were also surveyed.

Results:

Almost all (90.3%) survey participants had consulted a general practitioner in the 12-month period, on average 8.9 times, and 28.8% of attenders had consulted 12 times or more. The majority (83.5%) attended one general practitioner practice. Most (77.6%) general practitioners wanted to be involved in the mental health care of their patient. Although 69.1% said the management of their patient was not problematic for their practice, one in five general practitioners reported issues related to patient non-compliance with treatment and non-attendance at scheduled appointments; time constraints; and lack of feedback from treating mental health services.

Conclusion:

People with psychotic disorders consult general practitioners, some very frequently. Most Australian general practitioners believe they have a responsibility to review the physical and mental health of their patients. Improved communication between general practitioners and mental health services, and easier access to mental health support, may help general practitioners manage the complex mental, physical and social problems of their patients.
Borderline personality disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome: A review of the literature
Authors: Tan Raelene YM , Grigg Jasmin , Kulkarni Jayashri
Published: September 2017

Objective:

This review examines the existing evidence for the relationship between borderline personality disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome, and to identify commonalities in etiological mechanisms of borderline personality disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome that might explain the relationship between these seemingly disparate disorders.

Methods:

A search of Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Central was undertaken on 5 December 2016 to identify studies investigating women with borderline personality disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome (or symptoms and markers specific to polycystic ovary syndrome).

Results:

Nine studies were identified, including three cross-sectional studies investigating symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome in women with borderline personality disorder, two cross-sectional and one cohort study examining the prevalence of psychiatric diagnoses in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and three case reports of comorbid borderline personality disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome.

Conclusion:

Overall, the literature shows women with borderline personality disorder to have higher than expected serum androgen levels and incidence of polycystic ovaries, which can be key features of polycystic ovary syndrome. However, this research is still in its infancy, which limits our understanding of this potential comorbid phenomenon. Given the emerging anecdotal and empirical evidence to date, a theoretical discussion of the potential psychoneuroendocrinological mechanism underlying the borderline personality disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome comorbidity is provided. Further rigorous studies using standardized diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome are warranted. Specifically, the use of prospective controlled cohort studies may be able to determine the causality and temporality of observed comorbid borderline personality disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Peace without perfection: The intersections of realist and pacifist thought
Authors: Moses Jeremy
Published: September 2017

It is common in international relations thought to view realism and pacifism as lying at opposite ends of a spectrum on the permissibility of war. Pacifism, from this point of view, is necessarily antithetically opposed to and incompatible with realist thinking on the use of force. This article aims to counter this view and raise some critical questions concerning the incompatibilities of realism and pacifism through an examination of some points at which they may be seen to intersect. In pursuing these intersections, the first part of the article sets out the foundations of classical realist thought, focusing on the inherently conflictual depiction of human nature as the basis for a theory that insists upon the inescapable possibility of political violence. It then departs from the conventional narrative by setting out the intersections of pacifist and realist thought concerning the illogical and dangerous attempts to moralise war-fighting through the application of just war theory. Finally, it is proposed that a synthesis of some elements of pacifist and realist thought could lead to the development of new theories and strategies attuned to the promotion of non-violence in an inherently unstable and conflict-prone world.
Cancer Caregivers’ Preparedness for Loss and Bereavement Outcomes: Do Preloss Caregiver Attributes Matter?
Authors: Caserta Michael , Utz Rebecca , Lund Dale , Supiano Katherine , Donaldson Gary
Published: September 2017

Past studies examining the relationship between preparedness for loss and bereavement outcomes among caregivers of spouses/partners with life-limiting illness did not adequately account for preloss caregiver attributes that could potentially confound the relationship. Using a sample of spouse/partner cancer caregivers ( N = 226), we examined how preloss caregiver attributes were associated with how prepared one felt for loss and their role in the relationship between preparedness and later bereavement outcomes. Nearly half reported they were not emotionally prepared, and 35% were not prepared for the practical challenges associated with the loss. Although attributes such as depression, anxiety, competence in daily activities, and financial adequacy were associated with both preparedness and bereavement outcomes, regression analyses revealed that preparedness remained the strongest predictor in all models. We suggest that early interventions enhancing caregivers’ preparedness for loss may hold considerable promise for improved bereavement outcome.
Time Off After Childbirth and Mothers’ Risk of Depression, Parenting Stress, and Parenting Practices
Authors: Petts Richard J.
Published: September 2017

There has been increased interest in U.S. parental leave policies, but relatively few studies have focused on how such policies may influence mothers’ well-being and parenting. This study addresses this gap by using data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study to examine factors that predict the amount of time mothers take off work following childbirth and whether length of time off is associated with mothers’ risk of depression, parenting stress, and parenting practices. Results suggest that the majority of disadvantaged mothers take 3 months or less off from work after childbirth. Results also suggest that taking a month or less off work is associated with increased parenting stress, an increased risk of depression, and an increased likelihood of spanking relative to mothers who took more time off. Results also suggest that longer periods of time off are associated with more frequent engagement in developmental activities with the child.
Religious Affiliation and Work–Family Conflict Among Women and Men
Authors: May Matthew , Reynolds Jeremy
Published: September 2017

Religion is an important part of life for many women and men. Research on religion and work–family issues, however, remains limited. To better understand how religion influences work–family experiences, we use data from the General Social Survey to examine subjective experiences of work–family conflict across three religious groups and the nonreligious. Specifically, we examine how conservative Protestants, Catholics/Orthodox Christians, mainline Protestants, and the nonreligious differ in their perceptions of work-to-family and family-to-work conflict. We find that conservative Protestant women, but not men, report less work-to-family conflict and less family-to-work conflict than their peers in other religious groups even after controlling for religious service attendance, specific job features, and sociodemographic characteristics. Catholic/Orthodox men report less family-to-work conflict than conservative Protestant men. We suggest that researchers examine religion more closely to determine if the experiences of conservative Protestant women and Catholic/Orthodox men hold useful lessons for others.
Development and Pilot Testing of an Objective Structured Clinical Examination for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Bhatti Nasir I. , Abid Muhammad Abbas , Stewart C. Matthew , Fleishman Carol , Jefferson Niall , Ishman Stacey L.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Our aim was (1) to develop an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and (2) to test the reliability and evaluate the feasibility of this OSCE while assessing residents’ clinical skills in multiple core competencies via the standardized patient methodology.

Study Design

Development of assessment tool.

Setting

Johns Hopkins Medicine Simulation Center.

Subjects and Methods

Residents of the Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine were invited to participate. A 2‐station OSCE was developed. The first station used a standardized patient, and the encounter was videotaped for later evaluation by medical faculty not familiar with the participants being tested. The second was a computer‐based station developed per a modified Delphi technique, based on feedback from otolaryngology and sleep medicine faculty involved in the care of patients with OSA. Checklists were developed for each station to standardize the evaluation of each trainee’s performance.

Results

The OSCE that we developed is a feasible tool for assessing residents’ performance and skills to diagnose and manage a patient with OSA. Internal consistency, as assessed by Krippendorff’s alpha, was 0.699 for station 1 and 0.95 for station 2.

Conclusion

This OSCE was found to be feasible for assessment of clinical competency in OSA. Our model provides targeted assessment of multiple competencies and opportunity to improve clinical knowledge and skills.
The Challenge of Guideline Development When Evidence Is Sparse
Authors: Scharpf Joseph
Published: September 2017

Although best‐practice standards for clinical guidelines have been released by the Institute of Medicine and Guidelines International Network, a great challenge remains for guideline development for patients afflicted with rare diseases. This article reviews the challenge of guideline development under these circumstances with an emphasis on strategies to overcome these challenges. Guideline development and use in practice have become integral components in the contemporary care of patients to optimize outcome results. The guidelines are developed through an objective, evidence‐based process conducted by experts and stakeholders for a given disease process.
Cochlear Nerve Aplasia and Hypoplasia: Predictors of Cochlear Implant Success
Authors: Peng Kevin A. , Kuan Edward C. , Hagan Suzannah , Wilkinson Eric P. , Miller Mia E.
Published: September 2017

Objective

To identify factors predicting performance outcomes following cochlear implantation in patients with cochlear nerve aplasia or hypoplasia.

Data Sources

Individual patient data extracted from published case series and reports.

Review Methods

The MEDLINE database, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were queried for “cochlear implant” in conjunction with “aplasia” or “hypoplasia” between 1985 and 2015. Eighteen studies were included describing 97 subjects with individual postimplant auditory data. Postimplant performance was categorized as follows: level 1, nonstimulation/minimal detection; level 2, improved detection; level 3, closed‐set speech perception; or level 4, open‐set speech perception. The subjects achieving speech perception (levels 3 and 4) were descriptively compared with those who did not.

Results

Subjects with a hypoplastic cochlear nerve on magnetic resonance imaging had higher reported rates of achieving speech perception than those with an aplastic nerve. Subjects with syndromic medical comorbidities had higher reported rates of nonstimulation than nonsyndromic subjects. The data showed that some children with an aplastic cochlear nerve or those with partial electrode insertion could obtain levels of speech discrimination. Reporting of patient characteristics and auditory outcomes was extremely variable across studies.

Conclusion

As previously shown, cochlear implant in patients with cochlear nerve aplasia or hypoplasia can provide meaningful hearing for select patients. The current study suggests that presence of a cochlear nerve on magnetic resonance imaging and lack of comorbid medical syndrome are associated with better auditory outcomes in such patients. Future efforts to report individual data in a consistent manner may allow better determination of predictive factors.
Who’s Managing Otolaryngologic Conditions in the United States?
Authors: Sun Gordon H. , Cain‐Nielsen Anne , Moloci Nicholas M.
Published: September 2017

Growth of an aging US population, coupled with implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, will pose logistical challenges for the primary care provider (PCP) workforce for the foreseeable future. In particular, the burden of otolaryngologic care placed on PCPs is substantial, based on research dating back to the 1970s and confirmed by a recent analysis of the US National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. Collaboration between the otolaryngology and primary care communities will be needed to ensure that PCPs gain adequate exposure and training in routine otolaryngology care to improve the clinical management of ear, nose, and throat conditions in an expanding population.
Clinical Practice Guideline: Evaluation of the Neck Mass in Adults Executive Summary
Authors: Pynnonen Melissa A. , Gillespie M. Boyd , Roman Benjamin , Rosenfeld Richard M. , Tunkel David E. , Bontempo Laura , Brook Itzhak , Chick Davoren Ann , Colandrea Maria , Finestone Sandra A. , Fowler Jason C. , Griffith Christopher C. , Henson Zeb , Levine Corinna , Mehta Vikas , Salama Andrew , Scharpf Joseph , Shatzkes Deborah R. , Stern Wendy B. , Youngerman Jay S. , Corrigan Maureen D.
Published: September 2017

The American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation has published a supplement to this issue of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery featuring the “Clinical Practice Guideline: Evaluation of the Neck Mass in Adults.” To assist in implementing the guideline recommendations, this article summarizes the rationale, purpose, and key action statements. The 12 recommendations developed emphasize reducing delays in diagnosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma; promoting appropriate testing, including imaging, pathologic evaluation, and empiric medical therapies; reducing inappropriate testing; and promoting appropriate physical examination when cancer is suspected.
Plain Language Summary: Evaluation of the Neck Mass in Adults
Authors: Pynnonen Melissa A. , Colandrea Maria , Finestone Sandra A. , O’Connor Sarah S.
Published: September 2017

This plain language summary serves as an overview in explaining the evaluation of the neck mass in adults. The summary applies to patients aged ≥18 years and is based on the 2017 “Clinical Practice Guideline: Evaluation of the Neck Mass in Adults.” The evidence‐based guideline includes research to support more effective evaluation and diagnosis of the neck mass in adults. The guideline was developed as a quality improvement opportunity for evaluation of the neck mass by creating clear recommendations to use in medical practice.
Canadian Treatment Guidelines on Psychosocial Treatment of Schizophrenia in Children and Youth
Authors: Lecomte Tania , Abidi Sabina , Garcia-Ortega Iliana , Mian Irfan , Jackson Kevin , Jackson Kim , Norman Ross
Published: September 2017

Objective:

A panel of experts, including researchers, clinicians and people with lived experience, was brought together to develop the new Canadian schizophrenia guidelines for the psychosocial treatment of children and youth with schizophrenia or psychotic disorders.

Method:

The ADAPTE process, which relies on adapting existing high-quality guidelines, was used. Existing guidelines for children and youth (mostly from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence [NICE]), as well as CPA adult guidelines, were reviewed and discussed in terms of their adaptability to the Canadian context and their level of recommendation for children and youth. New treatments were also considered when recent meta-analyses suggested their usefulness.

Results:

The children and youth psychosocial guidelines include many cross-sectional recommendations in terms of clinical and interpersonal skills needed to work with this clientele, setting and collaboration issues and needed adaptations for specific subpopulations. In terms of specific treatments, the treatments most strongly recommended are family intervention and cognitive behavior therapy. Also recommended, although with different degrees of support, are supported employment/supported education programs, patient education, cognitive remediation, and social skills training. Novel and upcoming psychosocial treatments are also briefly discussed.

Conclusion:

These novel Canadian guidelines for the psychosocial treatment of children and youth with schizophrenia or psychotic disorders report evidence-based treatments as well as important considerations for providers who work with this clientele. More studies with children and youth with schizophrenia and psychotic disorders are warranted. If followed, these guidelines should facilitate the recovery of children and youth with schizophrenia or psychotic disorders as well as the recovery of their families.
Risk Factors in Domestic Homicides: Identifying Common Clusters in the Canadian Context
Authors: Dawson Myrna , Piscitelli Anthony
Published: September 2017

Little research has attempted to examine risk factor combinations when examining intimate partner violence. A variety of risk factors have been identified in domestic homicides, and it is recognized that risk of lethality may increase with the presence of more rather than less risk factors. This relationship is not necessarily linear, however. The objective of this study was to identify whether particular risk factor combinations are common in cases of domestic homicide. The study comprised 183 deaths that occurred between 2002 and 2012 and were reviewed by the Domestic Violence Death Review Committee, Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario, Canada, with particular focus on the presence/absence of 40 empirically based risk factors. The analyses identified three distinct risk factor clusters that differed primarily by victim–perpetrator relationship and the likelihood of perpetrator suicide or attempts to commit suicide. Cases involving perpetrators currently in legal marriages or cohabitating with their victims were most common among the Non-Depressed/Non-Violent Cluster followed by the Depressed/Violent Cluster. In contrast, the majority of those in the Non-Depressed/Violent Cluster were estranged from their victims and the least likely to attempt/commit suicide. The study demonstrates that particular risk factor combinations are common in cases of domestic homicide. Future research should expand the number of risk factors examined, increase the sample size to further test cluster validity, and compare lethal and non-lethal intimate partner violence and homicide to allow for an examination of the clusters more unique to lethality. Prevention initiatives should emphasize the heterogeneity of domestic homicides and target specific interventions.
Memories as a discursive strategy: Exploring representations of laïcité and Frenchness in Le Monde
Authors: Sommier Mélodine
Published: September 2017

Laïcité (i.e. secularism) has been increasingly and widely represented as a French exception. This study investigates such association by examining the cultural reality in which laïcité is embedded through the use of collective memories. Drawing on critical intercultural communication and aspects of a Foucauldian approach to discourse, this study explores collective memories that are associated with the concept of laïcité and how they contribute to the discursive association of laïcité with France. Qualitative content analysis was used to examine newspaper texts ( N = 60) published in the French daily Le Monde between 2011 and 2014. Results reveal the salience of historical memories and indicate ways in which they can be used to normalize meanings, produce instances of disciplinary power, and present reified representations of collective identities and practices.
Static error model of a three-floated gyroscope with a rotor supported on gas-lubricated bearings
Authors: Li Yan , Duan Fuhai , Fan Liang , Yan Ying
Published: September 2017

Three-floated gyroscope with the advantages of high accuracy has been widely used in platform inertial navigation system. To investigate the influence of specific force on the measured angular velocity of a gyroscope with a rotor supported on gas-lubricated bearings, a static error model considering three-degrees-of-freedom displacement of the rotor is proposed through numerical computation. Firstly, the conical Reynolds equation incorporated with the Fukui and Kaneko’s slip model is adopted and solved by the finite difference method, and the bearing force, caused by specific force, are obtained for each rotor displacement. Secondly, the error of gyroscope measured angular velocity is calculated from bearing force and rotor displacement. Finally, the relationship between the error and specific force is obtained by regression analysis, and the static error model of the gyroscope is proposed. To simplify the ternary regression analysis to binary, two intermediate parameters, radial interference torque and circumferential angle between interference torque and specific force, are introduced. Numerical results show that interference torque is approximately π/2 ahead of specific force in circumferential direction with fz > 0, and π/2 behind specific force with fz < 0, and that a large interference torque is produced when the specific force in radial and axial direction are both large. The error model provides a rapid prediction of the error caused by rotor displacement by three-degrees-of-freedom specific force.
Site selection for landfill gas extraction plant by fuzzy analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy analytic network process in the city of Najafabad, Iran
Authors: Khademalhoseiny Mohammad Saeed , Ahmadi Nadoushan Mozhgan , Radnezhad Hadi
Published: September 2017

For the selection of the suitable place for the construction of sanitary landfill and biogas plant in the city of Najaf Abad, this study used fuzzy analytic hierarchy process, fuzzy analytic network process, and geographic information system. In this research, factors such as slope, aspect, geology, land use, biomass, and distance from groundwater, electricity network, protected areas, and roads were used as the most important criteria for site selection of biogas plant. The results of weighting and overlaying the maps of different criteria showed that based on the analytic network process, the best place selected for the establishment of biogas reactor was located in the southwest and based on analytic hierarchy process, the best places are located in the south and southwest of the study area. Suggested places, which are the best for the establishment of biogas plant, are located in barren lands of Najaf Abad. Moreover, according to the result, it is found that 10% and 11% of the study area are highly suitable based on fuzzy analytic hierarchy process and analytic network process methods, respectively. The results showed that the usage of fuzzy analytic hierarchy process, fuzzy analytic network process as multi-criteria decision-making methods in combination with geographic information system are suitable for selecting the best place for landfill and biogas plant.
The δ13C of cellulose from modern plants and its responses to the atmosphere – From the peatland records of Dajiuhu, China
Authors: Liu Jinliang , Chen Ye , Ma Limeng , Pu Hongxue , Liu Chao , Zhao Zhijun , Shu Qiang
Published: September 2017

In this study, the values of δ13C in modern plants of the Dajiuhu Basin were determined, and correlation analysis was performed on various climatic factors influencing the values of δ13C in plants of this area on a seasonal scale. Results showed that carbon isotopes were fractionated from the collected plants through C3 pathways. Carex argyi and Sphagnum palustre L. are more sensitive to changes in air humidity. As a typical case, the values of δ13C in Carex argyi and Sphagnum palustre L. are positively and negatively associated with humidity, respectively, indicating that humidity was an important factor influencing the values of δ13C in plants of this area. Thus, while remodelling the palaeoclimate of the Dajiuhu Basin using the value of δ13C in the sedimentary peat plant residue, the plant residues of dominant species in this area (i.e. Sphagnum palustre L. and Carex argyi) that were sensitive to air humidity could be used. This is very important to understand deeply the mechanism of influence of climate change on plant carbon isotope fractionation and to predict the effects possibly caused by future global climate change.
Cities as sites of refuge and resistance
Authors: Mayer Margit
Published: September 2017

The article identifies some of the patterns and dynamics that have emerged in the uneven landscape and shifting constellations of local immigration regimes in the wake of the 2015 ‘summer of welcome’. Using the German case, it explores key players and institutions within this urban policy arena, and how their collaborative/competitive interactions in addressing the challenges of (receiving) the many newcomers have been shaped by supra-local as well as contingent and political factors. Firstly, it looks at the role and relative autonomy that municipalities exert in designing (proactive) refugee and integration policies. Out of the broad spectrum of civil society organisations that engage in this field, the paper then focuses on the new civic engagement often referred to as volunteer welcome initiatives, and on another civil society actor less frequently discussed in this context: the protest movement organised by refugees themselves. The evolving practices of, and interrelations among, these three sets of actors illustrate the trajectory of the transforming relations within the city as a networked and contested space of immigration policy.
The Emotional Labor of Personal Grief in Palliative Care: Balancing Caring and Professional Identities
Authors: Funk Laura M. , Peters Sheryl , Roger Kerstin Stieber
Published: September 2017

The paid provision of care for dying persons and their families blends commodified emotion work and attachments to two often-conflicting role identities: the caring person and the professional. We explore how health care employees interpret personal grief related to patient death, drawing on interviews with 12 health care aides and 13 nurses. Data were analyzed collaboratively using an interpretively embedded thematic coding approach and constant comparison. Participant accounts of preventing, postponing, suppressing, and coping with grief revealed implicit meanings about the nature of grief and the appropriateness of grief display. Employees often struggled to find the time and space to deal with grief, and faced normative constraints on grief expression at work. Findings illustrate the complex ways health care employees negotiate and maintain both caring and professional identities in the context of cultural and material constraints. Implications of emotional labor for discourse and practice in health care settings are discussed.
Assessing Leader Development: Lessons From a Historical Review of MBA Outcomes
Authors: Passarelli Angela M. , Boyatzis Richard E. , Wei Hongguo
Published: September 2017

Graduate management education seeks to enhance the likelihood that graduates will be effective leaders, managers, or professionals. This requires programs that are designed to enable students to develop the related competencies, and increasing regulatory pressures require programs to document evidence of success. However, both the design of competency development efforts and the assessment of those efforts remain a challenge for contemporary business schools. Here we examine a 25-year assessment program to illustrate the challenges associated with developing emotional, social, and cognitive competencies among full-time MBA students. We discuss key interventions that yielded positive assessment results and the challenges of maintaining a longitudinal assessment data set. We then examine patterns of competency development across nine cohorts to propose five factors that appeared to affect the variations in competency development over time and cohorts: (a) sequencing effects of emotional versus social competency development; (b) the sawtooth or alternating cohort effect; (c) leadership and organizational climate in the school; (d) events in the world at large, like a global recession; and (e) program structure and design.
Population Ecology (Organizational Ecology): An Experiential Exercise Demonstrating How Organizations in an Industry Are Born, Change, and Die
Authors: MacMillan Karen , Komar Jennifer
Published: September 2017

This article describes a classroom exercise that is designed to help students understand the basic tenets of population ecology (also known as organizational ecology). The macro-level, longitudinal approach to understanding organizations can be difficult for students to conceptualize as it involves systems thinking. This exercise makes the theory come alive by asking students to put themselves directly into the role of an organizational decision maker in an evolving industry. Over the course of one class, students get to experience how organizational size/age, environmental factors, and even random chance can affect organizational success and the makeup of an industry. Simulating up to a decade or more, students learn that populations of organizations change in predictable ways. We have tested this exercise with hundreds of students and we present evidence that it is effective in teaching the principles of population ecology (postexercise testing average of 92%) and also engaging and enjoyable for students.
Damage evolution and recrystallization enhancement of frozen loess
Authors: Zhou Zhiwei , Ma Wei , Zhang Shujuan , Cai Cong , Mu Yanhu , Li Guoyu
Published: September 2017

A series of multistage triaxial compression, creep, and stress relaxation tests were conducted on frozen loess at the temperature of −6℃ in order to study the damage evolution and recrystallization enhancement of mechanical properties during deformation process. The effect of strain rate, confining pressure, and hydrostatic stress history in the degradation laws of mechanical properties is investigated further. The strain rate has a significant influence on the stress–strain curve which dominates the evolution trend of mechanical properties. The mechanical behaviors (strength, stiffness, and viscosity) of frozen loess all exhibit evident response for the consolidation and pressure melting phenomenon caused by the confining pressure. The multistage loading tests under different hydrostatic stresses are capable of differentiating the development characteristics of mechanical properties during axial loading and hydrostatic compression process, respectively. The testing results indicated that the recrystallization of the ice particle in the frozen soils is an important microscopic factor for enhancement behaviors of mechanical parameters during the deformation process. This strengthening degree of mechanical properties is determined by temperature, duration time, deformation degree, and stress state during the recrystallization process. The phase transformation led by pressure melting and ice recrystallization is a nonnegligible changing pattern of frozen soils microstructure, which has apparent role in the damage evolution of mechanical properties.
Correlation Between Recovery of Triceps Surae Muscle Strength and Level of Activity After Open Repair of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture
Authors: Toyooka Seikai , Takeda Hideki , Nakajima Kohei , Masujima Atsushi , Miyamoto Wataru , Pagliazzi Gherardo , Nakagawa Takumi , Kawano Hirotaka
Published: September 2017

Background:

This study aimed to determine whether physical findings reflecting triceps surae strength recovery could predict return to activities such as jogging and sports and whether patients’ age and sex would influence recovery of triceps surae strength postoperatively.

Methods:

Between 2009 and 2013, 96 consecutive cases of postoperative acute Achilles tendon rupture were reviewed. The postoperative triceps surae strength recovery rate was investigated in all patients by using half body weight 1-time heel rise, full body weight (FBW) 1-time heel rise, FBW 20-time heel rise, jogging, and full return to sports activities. Influence of age and sex on triceps surae strength recovery was also investigated.

Results:

FBW 1-time heel rise and jogging were achieved at an average of 14 weeks (range, 6-24 weeks) and 15 weeks (range, 8-25 weeks) postoperatively, respectively. FBW 20-time heel rise and full return to sports activities were achieved at a mean of 21 weeks (range, 12-29 weeks) and 22 weeks (range, 13-29 weeks) postoperatively, respectively. Ability to perform FBW 1-time heel rise was directly related to resilience of jogging capability ( R2 = 0.317, P < 0.001), and ability to perform FBW 20-time heel rise was related to full return to sports activities ( R2 = 0.508, P < 0.001). Time to heel rise was not correlated with patient age or sex.

Conclusion:

Postoperative ability to perform FBW 1-time heel rise in patients postoperatively was directly related to resilience of jogging, and ability to perform FBW 20-time heel rise was directly related to full return to sports activities.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Functional Outcome of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture With and Without Operative Treatment Using Identical Functional Bracing Protocol
Authors: Lim Che Siu , Lees David , Gwynne-Jones David P.
Published: September 2017

Background:

The purpose of this study was to compare the functional results of operative and nonoperative treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture using an identical rehabilitation program of functional bracing.

Methods:

Over a 10-year period, 200 patients (99 operative, 101 nonoperative) aged between 18 and 65 years were treated at our institution’s physiotherapy department after acute Achilles tendon rupture. There were 132 patients (62 operative, 70 nonoperative) available for a minimum 2-year follow-up (average 6.5 years; range, 2-13 years). Functional outcome was assessed using the Achilles tendon total rupture score (ATRS).

Results:

With the numbers available, no significant difference could be detected in ATRS between operative (mean 84.8, median 90) and nonoperative groups (mean 85.3, median 91; P = 0.55). No significant difference could be detected in ATRS between male and female patients however treated ( P = 0.30) or between patients younger and older than 40 years at time of injury ( P = 0.68). There was no correlation between ATRS score and age at injury in all patients (ρ = −0.0168, P = 0.85). In male patients, there was a weak trend with older patients at follow-up having better scores (ρ = 0.21, P = 0.069). However, among female patients, there was a significant negative correlation between ATRS scores and increasing age (ρ = −0.29, P = 0.03). Logistic regression analysis failed to show any significant effect of age at rupture, gender, or mode of treatment on ATRS.

Conclusions:

This study showed no significant difference detectable in ATRS between operative and nonoperative patients in the treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures using an identical rehabilitation program with functional bracing.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prospective comparative study.