bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Media, Professional Media and Mobilisation in Contemporary Britain: Explaining the Strengths and Weaknesses of the Citizens’ Movement 38 Degrees
Authors: Chadwick Andrew , Dennis James
Published: May 2016

Digital media continue to reshape political activism in unexpected ways. Within a period of a few years, the internet-enabled UK citizens’ movement 38 Degrees has amassed a membership of 3 million and now sits alongside similar entities such as America’s MoveOn, Australia’s GetUp! and the transnational movement Avaaz. In this article, we contribute to current thinking about digital media and mobilisation by addressing some of the limitations of existing research on these movements and on digital activism more generally. We show how 38 Degrees’ digital network repertoires coexist interdependently with its strategy of gaining professional news media coverage. We explain how the oscillations between choreographic leadership and member influence and between digital media horizontalism and elite media-centric work constitute the space of interdependencies in which 38 Degrees acts. These delicately balanced relations can quickly dissolve and be replaced by simpler relations of dependence on professional media. Yet despite its fragility, we theorise about how 38 Degrees may boost individuals’ political efficacy, irrespective of the outcome of individual campaigns. Our conceptual framework can be used to guide research on similar movements.
The experience of an increase in the injection of ethylphenidate in Lothian April 2014–March 2015
Authors: Lafferty Con , Smith Linda , Coull Alison , Shanley Jim
Published: May 2016

Background and aims

New psychoactive substances are causing increasing harm across the UK but the use of new psychoactive substance by injecting has become a significant problem within Lothian since the beginning of 2014. Data indicate a rapid rise in the number of existing drug injectors, particularly heroin injectors, moving to new psychoactive substance injecting. This paper reports the experiences within Lothian of a sudden increase in injecting of ethylphenidate over one year. A temporary class drug order was placed on ethylphenidate on 10 April 2015, and as yet the effects of this are unknown.

Methods

Data specifically relating to new psychoactive substance recorded during injecting equipment provision transactions conducted by the NHS are reported. A survey was utilised to gather more detailed data from new psychoactive substance injectors.

Results

Injection of new psychoactive substance, including ethylphenidate has had significant adverse effects on physical and mental health. Risky behaviour such as sharing of equipment is known, and there are risks of transmission of infections.

Conclusion

The rapid increase in injecting ethylphenidate has had a major impact on injecting equipment provision services, health services and public health. More work is required to identify routes to recovery.
Methodology on Trial
Authors: Redington Luke
Published: May 2016

This article combines an adaptation of the Toulmin model of argument with a framework designed to analyze assertions of technology-related expertise in order to examine how expert witnesses fulfill the legal requirements for explaining the methodology underlying their testimony within the combative and sometimes prejudicial conditions of the courtroom environment. Its findings support previous claims about contributions technical communication scholars can make to the legal field.
Book Review: Jonathan D. James, A Moving Faith: Mega Churches Go South
Authors: Dayal John
Published: May 2016

Jonathan D. James, A Moving Faith: Mega Churches Go South, New Delhi, SAGE Publications, 2014, 260 pp., ₹795, ISBN: 9789351500582.
Improvement in quality of life in pulmonary tuberculosis patients: a prospective study
Authors: Singh Saurabh Kumar , Agrawal Atul , Tiwari Kamlesh Kumar
Published: May 2016

A cohort of 50 newly diagnosed patients with pulmonary tuberculosis was prospectively studied and compared with controls to assess and quantify their quality of life using the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Quality of Life (QOL)–BREF score before and after a Directly Observed Therapy Short (DOTS) course. It was concluded that health-related quality of life is impaired by tuberculosis and shows significant improvement with the DOTS treatment.
The Longitudinal Relationship Between African American Status, Psychopathic Traits, and Violent Recidivism in Juvenile Offenders
Authors: Sitney Miranda H. , Caldwell Brendan M. , Caldwell Michael F.
Published: May 2016

This project assessed the relationship between psychopathic traits, racial identity, and violent behavior in 257 delinquent boys. The Psychopathy Checklist–Youth Version (PCL:YV) was administered to youth across a 7-year window. The group was then followed for a mean of 14.7 years (range = 9.3 to 18.5 years), to determine if the presence of psychopathic features in adolescence predicted violent recidivism in adulthood. After controlling for race, Facet 3 was predictive of violent recidivism, whereas PCL:YV total score and all other Facets were not. Overall, African American youth obtained significantly higher PCL:YV scores and had higher rates of violent recidivism than did Caucasian youth, even when controlling for urban status. Implications for the use of the PCL:YV in clinical and legal settings will be discussed in light of the need for further research to be conducted on psychopathic traits in minority adolescents.
Nonstranger Victimization and Inmate Maladjustment
Authors: Cain Calli M. , Steiner Benjamin , Wright Emily M. , Meade Benjamin
Published: May 2016

Scholars have hypothesized that victimization elicits distinctive effects on women’s pathways to prison and subsequent prison maladjustment, but few researchers have investigated gender differences in this relationship. Using nationally representative samples of men and women housed in state prisons, we examine gender differences in the effects of experiencing different types of nonstranger victimization prior to prison on inmate maladjustment. Results indicate that pre-prison nonstranger victimization affects men’s and women’s maladjustment similarly, with some gender differences—specifically, the effect of being physically assaulted by a nonstranger as an adult on violent misconduct was stronger among men, as was the effect of child abuse on men’s depressive symptoms. Our findings suggest the effects of experiencing nonstranger victimization prior to incarceration on prison maladjustment may be gender-neutral more so than gender-specific. Based on our findings, nonstranger victimization should be deemed important in theories of men’s maladjustment as well as in theories of women’s maladjustment.
Predicting Recidivism With the Criminal Sentiments Scale
Authors: Walters Glenn D.
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the Criminal Sentiments Scale (CSS), a putative measure of criminal thought content, was capable of predicting recidivism in adult and juvenile offenders. Thirteen nonoverlapping samples from 10 different studies (total N = 1,789) were included in a meta-analysis in which the total CSS scale and its three subscales—Attitudes Toward the Law, Courts, and Police (LCP); Tolerance for Law Violations (TLV); and Identification With Criminal Others (ICO)—were used to predict reoffending. The total score, LCP, and TLV achieved modest to low moderate effect sizes and the ICO achieved a weak, but significant effect size. There were no signs of significant scatter between studies and no evidence of publication bias. It is concluded that the CSS may have value in predicting recidivism, although additional research is required to determine whether it has incremental validity relative to measures of criminal though process.
A Dystopian Climate for Transitional Justice
Authors: Phillips-Amos Georgia
Published: May 2016

As Colombia’s asymmetric war has evolved, gravitating toward cities, it has become absorbed by a transitional justice system. In the process, language used to name relevant stakeholders, shape national narratives of collective memory, and activate legal infrastructure is mediated by a symbolic and often duplicitous system of governance. A history of political violence and attempts to impose security focusing on the contemporary population of Comuna 13, the fastest-growing site of urban displacement in the city of Medellín, gives context to stories of violence that are otherwise eclipsed by the process of collective memory making and describes grassroots attempts at retracing a public narrative.

Mientras la guerra asimétrica en Colombia ha ido evolucionado, gravitando más y más hacia las ciudades, ésta ha sido absorbida por un sistema de justicia transicional. En este proceso, el lenguaje que se utiliza para nombrar a los actores más importantes, construir narrativas nacionales sobre la memoria colectiva y activar una infraestructura legal está condicionado por un sistema de gobernanza simbólico y a menudo engañoso. La historia sobre la violencia política y los esfuerzos por imponer medidas de seguridad en la Comuna 13—la zona de desplazamiento urbano de más alto crecimiento en la ciudad de Medellín— le da un contexto a las historias de violencia que de otra manera serían eclipsadas por el proceso de construir la memoria colectiva y describe los esfuerzos de base para recrear una narrativa pública.
Disciplining Desiring Subjects through the Remodeling of Masculinity
Authors: Chen Siyu
Published: May 2016

If You Are the One, the most watched dating show in China, caused a heated public debate following its debut in 2010, resulting in two government notices being issued regarding the regulation of dating shows. Using textual and intertextual analysis of the show and the public debate surrounding it, this article scrutinizes the transformation, following government regulation, of the construction of masculinity on the show. Drawing on Lisa Rofel’s narrative of “desiring China” and Robert P. Weller’s concept of “responsive authoritarianism,” this article shows how the tension between the market logic of the Chinese media and their political ownership is played out through the negotiation and mobilization of the meaning of gender. This article therefore also sheds light on larger political, economic, and sociocultural configurations in contemporary China.
The Importance and Interest of Introductory Psychology Textbook Topics
Authors: McCann Lee I. , Immel Kathy R. , Kadah-Ammeter Tammy L. , Adelson Sarah K.
Published: May 2016

Introductory psychology students at a technical college, 2-year community college, and a regional university rated how important textbook chapters or topics were to them now and in the future and how interesting they were. Importance and interest ratings were highly correlated, and the whole course was rated of greater importance and interest than was any individual topic. Most topics were ranked between important and quite important both currently and for the future, and university students typically rated both topic importance and interest higher. Males rated statistics of greater interest than did females; females rated importance of developmental now and in the future higher than did males. Women also rated current and future importance and interest in abnormal psychology and the future importance of therapy higher. Implications for introductory psychology instructors, departments, and advisors are discussed.
A Pilot Test of a Graduate Course in Suicide Theory, Risk Assessment, and Management
Authors: Cramer Robert J. , Bryson Claire N. , Stroud Caroline H. , Ridge Brittany E.
Published: May 2016

The present discussion outlines the design and initial implementation of a semester-long graduate course in suicide theory, risk assessment, and management. While the structure of the course is adaptable in light of various considerations (e.g., targeted group of students and availability of resources), we review suicide risk assessment core competencies and course structure and provide sample evidence-based applied and interactive assignments. An initial empirical test of the course yielded a number of encouraging findings, including increased factual knowledge concerning suicide risk assessment and management, and improved objectively assessed student accuracy in estimating chronic and acute suicide risk in response to a mock case vignette. We offer suggested next steps for modification and testing of the course in undergraduate and graduate training contexts.
Teaching About Psychosocial Aspects of Disability
Authors: Dunn Dana S.
Published: May 2016

This article presents some psychosocial aspects of disability linked to the person–environment relation that teachers should share in the psychology classroom. Disability is an often-overlooked form of diversity, one that teachers should discuss alongside race, gender, sexual orientation, social class/socioeconomic status (SES), religiosity, and aging. The experience of disability and disability culture are important topics that should be shared with and understood by secondary and postsecondary students, particularly because people with disabilities are no longer at the social margins of everyday life in the United States. To that end, I review definitions for disability as well as a nascent model for understanding the experience of disability, some select but fundamental psychosocial constructs regarding disability, and a representative negative (stigma and stereotyping) and positive (disability identity) context example from the social psychological literature on disability. I then close with suggestions for teaching about disability.
Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Collins Tai A. , Hawkins Renee O. , Nabors Laura A.
Published: May 2016

Identification of evidence-based practices for promotion of social and emotional functioning of children at school is important for their academic and social development. This introduction reviews information from this special issue focusing on evidence-based research to improve the social and emotional functioning of children in their classrooms and schools. An emphasis on reduction of negative behaviors and promotion of positive, prosocial behaviors is presented in manuscripts for this special issue. The articles in this issue may be grouped in terms of the tiered system or School-Wide Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports Framework into articles at the Tier I, II, and III levels. Tier I interventions support positive behaviors and reduce problem behaviors for all children in a classroom or school, as a type of primary prevention. In terms of secondary prevention, Tier II interventions are selected interventions that address problem behaviors of students at risk for poor functioning, who do not respond to Tier I interventions. Finally, Tier III interventions are used for those students with behavioral and emotional issues who do not respond to Tier II interventions, and students in this group are indicated for intervention at a tertiary care level. In summary, this special issue presents evidence-based knowledge from research at all three intervention levels that aim to promote children’s social and emotional development in the school setting.
An “Ethical Moment” in Data Sharing
Authors: Heeney Catherine
Published: May 2016

This study draws on interviews with forty-nine members of a biomedical research community in the UK that is involved in negotiating data sharing and access. During an interview, an interviewee used the words “ethical moment” to describe a confrontation between collaborators in relation to data sharing. In this article, I use this as a lens for thinking about relations between “the conceptual and the empirical” in a way that allows both analyst and actor to challenge the status quo and consider other ethical possibilities. Drawing on actor network theory (ANT), I approach “the empirical” using the concepts of controversy and ontological uncertainty as methodological tools to tackle the problem of ethics. I suggest that these concepts also provide a bridge for understanding the ontological structure of the virtual and the actual, as described in Deleuze’s Difference and Repetition. While other science and technology studies scholars have sought to draw on Deleuze, this article addresses the integration of ethics and empirical research. It arises as a critical reaction to existing treatments of this problem as found in empirical ethics, especially in the sociology of bioethics, and indirectly in ANT texts.
Overweight and isolated
Authors: Ames Megan , Leadbeater Bonnie
Published: May 2016

This longitudinal study investigates whether there are particularly salient ages when being overweight is related to problems in interpersonal relationships (i.e., physical, relational, and verbal victimization, lack of friend social support, dating status, and romantic relationship worries). Participants were from a large, six-wave longitudinal study ( N = 662, 48% males, M age at T1 = 15.5 years, SD = 1.9 years). We use time-varying effect models to estimate how the associations between weight status and interpersonal problems differ from ages 12 to 28. Gender differences are also investigated. Findings show that youth who are overweight are more likely to experience verbal victimization, feel less supported by their peers, and are less likely to date than youth who are not overweight from mid-adolescence into early young adulthood. Further, females who are overweight are more likely to be physically victimized at ages 15 to 22 than females who are not overweight. The results provide a better understanding of age-related changes in interpersonal problems among youth who are overweight from adolescence into young adulthood.
Neutralizing the Maternal Breast: Accounts of Public Breastfeeding by African American Mothers
Authors: Owens Nicole , Carter Shannon K. , Nordham Chelsea J. , Ford Jason A.
Published: May 2016

U.S. mothers receive messages that they should breastfeed their babies, yet there is little cultural support for public breastfeeding and evidence of heightened opposition in African American communities. We use a social constructionist perspective to analyze 22 African American mothers’ breastfeeding in public narratives. Findings show that participants use varying definitions of “public” in relation to breastfeeding that are based on geographic spaces and social relationships. Participants identify breastfeeding in public as problematic based on their interpretations of others’ reactions, and discuss covering as an important component of breastfeeding in public. We conclude that the breastfeeding cover operates as a “cloak of neutralization” by creating a symbolically “private” space in a discursively constructed “public” one. Although the cover eliminates potential breast exposure, it announces a woman’s use of the maternal breast—which Young identifies as challenging patriarchal claims to women’s bodies—thereby failing to fully neutralize the situation.
Bilateral thoracoscopic extended thymectomy versus sternotomy
Authors: Fiorelli Alfonso , Mazzella Antonio , Cascone Roberto , Caronia Francesco Paolo , Arrigo Ettore , Santini Mario
Published: May 2016

Background

Complete open surgical resection is the standard treatment for thymoma and myasthenia gravis. We evaluated the feasibility of bilateral video-assisted thoracoscopic extended thymectomy, and compared it to surgery via sternotomy.

Methods

From 2011 to 2014, 43 patients undergoing thymectomy were divided into 2 groups: 23 underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic extended thymectomy, and 20 had thymectomy via sternotomy. The primary outcomes were postoperative pain score (visual analog scale) at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h, and 1-month postoperatively, and morphine consumption in the first 48 h. Secondary outcomes were surgical and clinical results.

Results

There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of demographics and preoperative clinical data. Compared to the sternotomy group, the video-assisted thoracoscopic thymectomy group had lower pain scores and morphine consumption at all time points, significantly less operative blood loss and chest drainage volume, and shorter hospital stay. The rates of improvement in myasthenia gravis were 85% and 86% in the video-assisted thoracoscopic thymectomy and sternotomy groups, respectively. No recurrence of thymoma was found in either group (median follow-up 27 months).

Conclusions

Our results seem to confirm that in selected cases, video-assisted thoracoscopic thymectomy allows complete resection of thymus and perithymic tissue, similar to sternotomy but with the known advantages of minimally invasive surgery including less pain and a good cosmetic result.
Urban infrastructure is not a tree: Integrating and decentralizing urban infrastructure systems
Authors: Derrible Sybil
Published: May 2016

In his original 1965 article, Christopher Alexander argued that master planned cities ultimately failed because the designs elaborated followed a tree structure as opposed to a more desirable semilattice structure present in organic cities. In this article, I argue that a similar claim can be made with urban infrastructure systems planning. As cities expanded and became increasingly complex in the 20th century, the responsibility to plan and design urban infrastructure was distributed to separate agencies that seldom communicate and coordinate with one another. In the global context to make cities more sustainable and resilient, a better integration of infrastructure systems may hold much potential. After recalling Alexander’s main concepts, I examine how current infrastructure systems are naturally interdependent. I then discuss the role of integration, by notably proposing an integration-decentralization matrix, with four quadrants, illustrated by using practical examples. The quadrants are current paradigm, siloed distribution, localized integration, and integrated decentralization. Overall, a better integration of urban infrastructure can offer significant benefits to a city, and it may be time to seriously revisit our current urban infrastructure systems planning practice.
Analysis of traffic noise distribution and influence factors in Chinese urban residential blocks
Authors: Zhou Zhiyu , Kang Jian , Zou Zhe , Wang Hanqi
Published: May 2016

To improve the acoustic environment of residential blocks, noise mapping is employed in this study to analyze traffic noise distribution and the influence factors of four types of residential blocks in China. The study shows that high-rise small blocks have the highest average noise level ( Lavg) for ground and building facades, followed by small low-rise blocks while modern residential blocks yield the lowest value. An analysis of the standard deviation (STD) of spatial statistical noise level ( Ln) shows that the STD of the ground and building façade of two types of small blocks is higher than that of other blocks. The analysis of influence factors indicates that the lot area of residential block has significant negative correlation with ground and building facade average noise level ( Lavg), and street coverage ratio (SCR) has significant positive correlation with ground and building facade average noise level ( Lavg). In low-rise and high-rise small blocks, ground space index (GSI) has significant negative correlation with ground and building facade average noise level ( Lavg); street interface density (SID) has significant positive correlation with the STDs of ground and building facade noise. Floor space index (FSI) shows significant positive correlation with the STDs of ground and building facade noise in low-rise small blocks.
The normalization of online campaigning in the web.2.0 era
Authors: Koc-Michalska Karolina , Lilleker Darren G , Smith Alison , Weissmann Daniel
Published: May 2016

This article is based on a comparative study of online campaigning and its effects by country and over time, using four of the largest European Union member states (France, Germany, Poland and the United Kingdom) as a case study. Our research explores the extent of embeddedness of online campaigning, the strategic uses of the whole online environment and in particular the use of the interactive features associated with web.2.0 era. However, our research goes beyond studies of online campaigning as we also determine whether online campaigning across platforms matters in electoral terms. Our data support the normalization hypothesis which shows overall low levels of innovation but that the parties with the highest resources tend to develop online campaigns with the highest functionality. We find that there is a vote dividend for those parties which utilized web.2.0 features the most and so offered visitors to their web presence a more interactive experience.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after intravenous injection of paraffin oil
Authors: Pasgaard Thomas , Huynh Anh-Nhi Thi , Gjedsted Jakob
Published: May 2016

We present a rare cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to an accidental intravascular injection of paraffin oil. While there is no specific therapy, we decided to support the patient with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) to allow the ARDS to resolve. A previously healthy 30-year-old man was admitted to the Emergency Department with acute onset respiratory distress following an injection with paraffin oil for cosmetic purposes. In 36 hours, the patient developed severe ARDS and respiratory support with V-V ECMO was initiated. The patient was successfully weaned from ECMO on day 11 and was discharged from hospital in full recovery.
Similarity of coagulation and inflammation despite different surgical revascularization strategies – a prospective randomized trial
Authors: Gorki Hagen , Hoenicka Markus , Rupp Patricia , Müller-Eising Kristina , Deininger Stefanie , Kunert Andreas , Liebold Andreas
Published: May 2016

Background:

Supposedly, minimized extracorporeal circulation or off-pump revascularization as alternatives to conventional extracorporeal circulation (ONCAB) reduce inflammation and coagulation disturbances.

Methods:

One hundred and twenty coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients were prospectively randomized for three surgical techniques. Coagulation and inflammation markers were measured up to 72 hours postoperatively.

Results:

Coagulation factors I, II, V, X, antithrombin III and C-reactive protein did not differ perioperatively between the groups and increased, as did several other markers, 12 to 72 hours postoperatively. Compared to its alternatives, ONCAB showed the most obvious transient increase in thrombin-antithrombin complexes (p<0.0001), D-dimers (p=0.0059), tissue factor pathway inhibitor (p=0.0005), factor VIII (p=0.0041) and tumor necrosis factor α (p=0.0300) during the operation and up to 12 hours postoperatively. Furthermore, ONCAB generated lower leukocyte and platelet counts and higher values of soluble P-selectin and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 at some time points.

Conclusions:

With similarity in pivot coagulation factors, a specific detrimental influence of ONCAB on common coagulation pathways was excluded. Higher perioperative concentrations of products from the coagulation cascade most likely indicate activation of pericardial blood – recirculated only in ONCAB. Furthermore, with only temporary differences in markers of inflammation, the alternatives to ONCAB altogether were without advantage at 72 hours postoperatively. In the general answer to surgical trauma, the part of modern extracorporeal circulation is possibly overestimated. The study is registered at the German Clinical Trial Registry. Registration number DRKS00007580. URL: https://drks-neu.uniklinik-freiburg.de/drks_web/ URL: http://apps.who.int/trialsearch/
Efficacy of the RemoweLL cardiotomy reservoir for fat and leucocyte removal from shed mediastinal blood: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lagny Marc-Gilbert , Gothot Andre , Hans Gregory A. , Koch Jean-Noël , Blaffart Francine , Hella Dominique , Donneau Anne-Françoise , Roediger Laurence , Lecut Christelle , Pincemaïl Joël , Cheramy-Bien Jean-Paul , Defraigne Jean-Olivier
Published: May 2016

Introduction:

Re-transfusion of lipid particles and activated leucocytes with shed mediastinal blood (SMB) can aggravate cardiopulmonary bypass-associated inflammation and increase the embolic load. This study evaluated the fat and leucocyte removal capacity of the RemoweLL cardiotomy reservoir.

Methods:

Forty-five patients undergoing elective on-pump cardiac surgery were randomly allocated to filtration of SMB using the RemoweLL or the Admiral cardiotomy reservoir. The primary outcome was a drop in leucocytes and lipid particles obtained with the two filters. The effect of the filters on other blood cells and inflammatory mediators, such as myeloperoxidase (MPO), was also assessed.

Results:

The RemoweLL cardiotomy filter removed 16.5% of the leucocytes (p<0.001) while no significant removal of leucocytes was observed with the Admiral (p=0.48). The percentage reductions in lipid particles were similar in the two groups (26% vs 23%, p=0.2). Both filters similarly affected the level of MPO (p=0.71).

Conclusion:

The RemoweLL filter more effectively removed leucocytes from SMB than the Admiral. It offered no advantage in terms of lipid particle clearance.
Factors affecting optimal linear endovenous energy density for endovenous laser ablation in incompetent lower limb truncal veins – A review of the clinical evidence
Authors: Cowpland Christine A , Cleese Amy L , Whiteley Mark S
Published: May 2016

Objectives

The objective is to identify the factors that affect the optimal linear endovenous energy density (LEED) to ablate incompetent truncal veins.

Methods

We performed a literature review of clinical studies, which reported truncal vein ablation rates and LEED. A PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) flow diagram documents the search strategy. We analysed 13 clinical papers which fulfilled the criteria to be able to compare results of great saphenous vein occlusion as defined by venous duplex ultrasound, with the LEED used in the treatment.

Results

Evidence suggests that the optimal LEED for endovenous laser ablation of the great saphenous vein is >80 J/cm and <100 J/cm in terms of optimal closure rates with minimal side-effects and complications. Longer wavelengths targeting water might have a lower optimal LEED. A LEED <60 J/cm has reduced efficacy regardless of wavelength. The optimal LEED may vary with vein diameter and may be reduced by using specially shaped fibre tips. Laser delivery technique and type as well as the duration time of energy delivery appear to play a role in determining LEED.

Conclusion

The optimal LEED to ablate an incompetent great saphenous vein appears to be >80 J/cm and <95 J/cm based on current evidence for shorter wavelength lasers. There is evidence that longer wavelength lasers may be effective at LEEDs of <85 J/cm.
Obesity and lower limb venous disease – The epidemic of phlebesity
Authors: Davies Huw OB , Popplewell Matthew , Singhal Rishi , Smith Neil , Bradbury Andrew W
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Lower limb venous disease affects up to one half, and obesity up to one quarter, of the adult population. Many people are therefore affected by, and present to health services for the treatment of both conditions. This article reviews the available evidence of pathophysiological and clinical relationship between obesity and varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency and ulceration and deep vein thrombosis.

Methods

A literature search of PubMed and Cochrane libraries was performed in accordance with PRISMA statement from 1946 to 2015, with further article identification from following cited references for articles examining the relationship between obesity and venous disease. Search terms included obesity, overweight, thrombosis, varicose veins, CEAP, chronic venous insufficiency, treatment, endovenous, endothermal, sclerotherapy, bariatric surgery and deep vein thrombosis.

Results

The proportion of the population suffering from lower limb venous disease and obesity is increasing. Obesity is an important risk factor for all types of lower limb venous disease, and obese patients with lower limb venous disease are more likely to be symptomatic as a result of their lower limb venous disease. The clinical diagnosis, investigation, imaging and treatment of lower limb venous disease in obese people present a number of challenges. The evidence base underpinning medical, surgical and endovenous management of lower limb venous disease in obese people is limited and such treatment may be associated with worse outcomes and increased risks when compared to patients with a normal body mass index.

Conclusion

Lower limb venous disease and obesity are both increasingly common. As such, phlebologists will be treating ever greater numbers of obese patients with lower limb venous disease, and clinicians in many other specialties are going to be treating a wide range of obesity-related health problems in people with or at risk of lower limb venous disease. Unfortunately, obese people have been specifically excluded from many, if not most, of the pivotal studies. As such, many basic questions remain unanswered and there is an urgent need for research in this challenging and increasingly prevalent patient group.
Effect of conventional physical therapy and Pilates in functionality, respiratory muscle strength and ability to exercise in hospitalized chronic renal patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sarmento Lais A , Pinto Juliana SST , da Silva Ana PP , Cabral Cristina MN , Chiavegato Luciana D
Published: May 2016

Objective:

To compare the effect of conventional physical therapy and Pilates on function, restoration, and exercise ability in hospitalized chronic renal patients.

Methods:

A total of 56 inpatients were randomized into two groups: Conventional physical therapy and Pilates. The primary outcomes were functionality (Barthel Index), respiratory muscle strength (manovacuometry), and ability to exercise (step test) evaluated in the following periods: preintervention, after the 5th session, and after the 10th session or at discharge. Three months after randomization, the Barthel Index was applied over the phone. At the end of the 10 sessions or at discharge, the length of hospital stay was calculated and the level of satisfaction with physical therapy care was assessed (MedRisk). Linear mixed models were used for the primary outcomes and the Student’s t-test was used for length of stay and satisfaction.

Results:

There was no significant between-group difference in functionality (MD −1.3; 95% CI −2.8 to 5.4), inspiratory and expiratory muscle strength (MD −1.3; 95% CI −7.3 to 4.5/MD −4.5; 95% CI −0.7 to 9.7, respectively), performance in the step test (MD −3.3; 95% CI −6.2 to 12.8), patient satisfaction with physical therapy care (MD −2.0; 95% CI −5.1 to 9.1), and length of stay (MD 4.5; 95% CI −15.9 to 6.8).

Conclusion:

Both interventions, conventional physical therapy and Pilates, showed improvements and there is no difference between them. Therefore both can be used in chronic renal patients.
Survivor guilt
Authors: Juni Samuel
Published: May 2016

Survivor guilt is a construct which is ill defined in the literature. Disparate overlapping and inconsistent formulations are outlined and critiqued from the orientation of reactions of Jewish Holocaust victims. Utilizing the perspective of Defense Mechanism Theory, guilt is explored as an adaptive construct of mastery and survival in extreme conditions. Aspects of culpability in guilt are examined. Brief quotes from survivor narratives are presented to elaborate nuances of guilt experiences. Defensive strategies which coincide with exposure to violence and suffering of others and where there is no overt personal threat experienced by the ‘survivor’ are highlighted. A framework is proposed synthesizing the various motifs, bridging emotions ranging from self-recrimination to traumatic anxiety. The assumptions that survivor guilt is engendered by survival and that it entails feelings of guilt are both challenged.
Differential contribution of COX-1 and COX-2 derived prostanoids to cortical spreading depression—Evoked cerebral oligemia
Authors: Gariepy Helaine , Zhao Jun , Levy Dan
Published: May 2016

Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is considered a significant phenomenon for human neurological conditions and one of its key signatures is the development of persistent cortical oligemia. The factors underlying this reduction in cerebral blood flow (CBF) remain incompletely understood but may involve locally elaborated vasoconstricting eicosanoids. We employed laser Doppler flowmetry in urethane-anesthetized rats, together with a local pharmacological blockade approach, to test the relative contribution of cyclooxygenase (COX)-derived prostanoids to the oligemic response following CSD. Administration of the non-selective COX inhibitor naproxen completely inhibited the oligemic response. Selective inhibition of COX-1 with SC-560 preferentially reduced the early reduction in CBF while selective COX-2 inhibition with NS-398 affected only the later response. Blocking the action of thromboxane A2 (TXA2), using the selective thromboxane synthase inhibitor ozagrel, reduced only the initial CBF decrease, while inhibition of prostaglandin F2alpha action, using the selective FP receptor antagonist AL-8810, blocked the later phase of the oligemia. Our results suggest that the long-lasting oligemia following CSD consists of at least two distinct temporal phases, mediated by preferential actions of COX-1- and COX-2-derived prostanoids: an initial phase mediated by COX-1 that involves TXA2 followed by a later phase, mediated by COX-2 and PGF2alpha.
Violent Female Offenders Compared With Violent Male Offenders on Psychological Determinants of Aggressive Behavior
Authors: Hornsveld Ruud H. J. , Zwets Almar J. , Leenaars Ellie (P.) E. M. , Kraaimaat Floris W. , Bout Ruben , Lagro-Janssen Toine (A.) L. M. , Kanters Thijs
Published: May 2016

Psychological determinants of aggressive behavior (personality traits and problem behaviors) in 59 Dutch female offenders (outpatients and detainees) were compared with those in 170 male offenders (outpatients and detainees) who were all convicted of a violent crime. The violent female offenders scored significantly higher on neuroticism and trait anger, and significantly lower on hostility than the male offenders; however, effect sizes were small. A subgroup of female forensic psychiatric outpatients did not differ from a subgroup of male outpatients on all measures, whereas a subgroup of female detainees scored significantly higher on anger and aggression, but lower on hostility and psychopathy than did a subgroup of male detainees. These first results might indicate that violent female offenders do not differ much from violent male offenders regarding personality traits and problem behaviors. The differences between both groups of violent offenders were largely borne by the subgroup of violent female detainees compared with the subgroup of violent male detainees.
On geography and encounter
Authors: Wilson Helen F.
Published: May 2016

The notion of encounter has been used widely within work on urban diversity and socio-cultural difference, yet it remains under-theorized. This paper argues that ‘encounter’ is a conceptually charged construct that is worthy of sustained and critical attention. Drawing on a wide range of geographical interests, including animal geographies, urban diversity, postcolonialism, mobile geographies, and the more-than-human, it offers the first examination of how ‘encounter’ has been deployed across the discipline. By further tracing the historical links between geography and encounter, the paper contends that encounters are distinct genres of contact, and demonstrates why this matters for geographical thought, and how we think about bodies, borders, and difference.
Urban vulnerability and the contribution of socio-environmental fragmentation
Authors: Krellenberg Kerstin , Welz Juliane , Link Felipe , Barth Katrin
Published: May 2016

As ongoing parallel processes, urbanization and climate change call for overarching context-specific responses that tackle the complex challenges involved and include a comprehensive data base to identify the most pressing action needs. We argue that urban vulnerabilities must take centre stage in this regard. What comes to the fore in the context of urban vulnerability to climate-related hazards is the interaction of human systems with the environment. Understanding the impact of changes in temperature and precipitation on socio-ecological systems is therefore not enough. Insights into the complexity of urban development, social inequalities, economics and politics are needed. To address this complexity, the article focuses on the challenges associated with socio-environmental fragmentation patterns and residential vulnerability, since the interlinkages between them contribute substantially to furthering insights into the specifics of ‘urban’ vulnerabilities to climate-related hazards. An approach that combines socio-environmental fragmentation and residential vulnerability is presented. This approach explores socio-environmental urban developments as well as individual perceptions and capacities.
White matter lesion burden in migraine with aura may be associated with reduced cerebral blood flow
Authors: Zhang Quan , Datta Ritobrato , Detre John A , Cucchiara Brett
Published: May 2016

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine whether white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) in subjects with migraine are related to alterations in resting cerebral blood flow (CBF).

Methods

Migraine with aura (MWA), migraine without aura (MwoA), and control subjects were enrolled in a 1:1:1 ratio. WMH load was scored based on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery/T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using a previously established semi-quantitative scale. Global and regional CBFs were quantified using arterial spin labelled perfusion MRI. Integrity of the circle of Willis was assessed with magnetic resonance angiography (MRA).

Results

A total of 170 subjects were enrolled (54 controls, 56 MWA, and 60 MwoA). There was no significant difference in subjects with ≥1 WMH across groups (22% controls, 29% MWA, 35% MwoA; p = NS). Similarly, high WMH load was not significantly different across groups (16.7% controls, 21.4% MWA, 25.0% MwoA; p = NS). High WMH load was strongly associated with increasing age (odds ratio: 1.08 per year, 95% confidence interval: 1.02–1.13, p = 0.01). Resting CBF was similar across groups, but was significantly higher in women. In MWA subjects with high WMH load, CBF was substantially lower ( p = 0.03). No association between WMH load and CBF was seen in control or MwoA subjects.

Conclusions

WHMs in MWA may be related to alterations in resting CBF.
Comparison of the Suture Anchor and Transosseous Techniques for Patellar Tendon Repair
Authors: Lanzi Joseph T. , Felix Justin , Tucker Christopher J. , Cameron Kenneth L. , Rogers John , Owens Brett D. , Svoboda Steven J.
Published: May 2016

Background:

Minimizing gap formation and maximizing the strength of patellar tendon repairs are 2 critical factors for successful healing of these injuries.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to compare transosseous and screw-in anchor repair techniques to determine if there is a difference in gap formation and load to failure of the 2 constructs. The research hypotheses were that the anchor construct would have significantly less gap formation and would also have significantly greater load-to-failure strength.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 24 porcine specimens were randomly assigned into transosseous and 4.75-mm polyetheretherketone (PEEK) screw-in anchor repair groups. The repairs were then completed using 2 No. 2 FiberWire sutures, and each specimen was cyclically loaded on a tensile test machine to 250 N for a total of 1000 cycles. Gap formation was measured at 1, 10, 250, 500, and 1000 cycles. Each specimen was loaded to failure after 1000 cycles. Independent t tests were conducted.

Results:

Statistically significant gap formation and load-to-failure differences were found between the 2 repair techniques. The mean gap in the anchor group (2.16 ± 1.81 mm) was significantly less than that seen in the transosseous group (5.71 ± 1.58 mm) ( P < .001). The mean load to failure of the anchor group (669.9 ± 91.8 N) was significantly higher than that of the transosseous group (582.8 ± 92.6 N) ( P = .03).

Conclusion:

The results support the 2 study hypotheses. These findings suggest that the 4.75-mm PEEK screw-in anchor construct may be superior to the transosseous technique for minimizing gap formation and improving load-to-failure strength after surgical repair of the patellar tendon.

Clinical Relevance:

The use of the suture anchor technique in patellar tendon repair may support early load-bearing rehabilitation.
High Failure Rate of a Decellularized Osteochondral Allograft for the Treatment of Cartilage Lesions
Authors: Farr Jack , Gracitelli Guilherme C. , Shah Nehal , Chang Eric Y. , Gomoll Andreas H.
Published: May 2016

Background:

Widespread adoption of fresh allograft transplantation remains limited, predominantly by supply issues. To overcome these limitations, a preshaped, cylindrical sterilized and decellularized osteochondral allograft (SDOCA) implant was recently introduced as a clinical treatment option.

Purpose:

To evaluate functional outcomes and graft survivorship among patients treated with the SDOCA implant for knee cartilage injuries.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

An institutional review board–approved database was used to identify a series of patients with prospectively collected data who had been treated with the SDOCA implant. The surgeries were performed at 2 centers by 2 surgeons. Patient-reported outcomes, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the number and type of reoperations were assessed. Failure was defined as structural damage of the graft diagnosed by arthroscopy or MRI, and any reoperation resulting in removal of the allograft. Patients were evaluated pre- and postoperatively using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Marx Sports Activity Scale. MRI was assessed preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results:

There were 32 patients with a mean age (±SD) of 35.1 ± 10.6 years; 59% were male. Twenty-three (72%) knees had previous surgery. The mean defect area (±SD) was 2.9 ± 2.0 cm2, and the mean allograft size was 13.18 ± 2.3 mm (6 grafts ≤9 mm and 59 grafts ≥11 mm). The median number of allografts per knee was 2 (range, 1-5 grafts). Twenty-three of the 32 knees (72%) were considered failures by the definition detailed above. Of these, 14 knees (43%) had further surgery after the index procedure. Implant survivorship was 19.6% at 2 years. The mean follow-up duration was 1.29 years (range, 0.11-2.8 years). KOOS pain, activities of daily living (ADL), sports and recreation (sport/rec), and knee-related quality of life improved significantly from the preoperative visit to latest follow-up. Age was significantly predictive of failure, with a hazard ratio of 1.68 per 1 SD older (95% CI, 1.05-2.68; P = .030). The MOCART (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue) feature effusion was the only score to correlate with KOOS (symptoms, pain, ADL, sport/rec).

Conclusion:

The SDOCA implant demonstrated a 72% failure rate within the first 2 years of implantation at these 2 institutions.