bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Employer theft of temporary migrant workers’ wages in Australia: Why has the state failed to act?
Authors: Clibborn Stephen , Wright Chris F
Published: March 2018

Wage theft has emerged as a major problem for regulation of work in Australia. Yet, the state has done little to address the issue. In this context, this article considers why there has been recent growth in reported cases of underpayment of wages, particularly of temporary migrant workers, and why the state has failed to implement a strategy to adequately address this problem. The article examines the fragmented nature of employment regulation and visa categories constraining worker agency which, combined with widening avenues for temporary migration, have contributed to the underpayment problem. We also consider how conflicting imperatives of the state, business influence over the policy process and weak political incentives to address underpayment help to account for the state’s inaction.
MRI for Fetal Developmental Brain Abnormalities: Perspectives From the Pregnant Patient
Authors: Lie Mabel L. S. , Graham Ruth H. , Robson Stephen C. , Griffiths Paul D.
Published: March 2018

Ultrasound is routinely used as a prenatal screening and diagnostic tool but has limitations. Some anomalies in the developing fetal brain can be difficult to detect, and in utero magnetic resonance imaging (iuMRI) is increasingly used as an adjunct to ultrasound. However, understandings of patient perspectives of iuMRI technology are still developing. Our qualitative study of 41 mothers who experienced iuMRI was embedded in a diagnostic accuracy trial and aimed to inform policy recommendations that might stem from the clinical findings. Our analysis suggests that iuMRI is seen as useful, offering valuable additional information and helping women make decisions about care options at a difficult time. However, patients’ experiences demonstrated the uncertainty and anxiety associated with the prenatal diagnosis (PND) process relating to brain anomalies including the challenges of their embodied contributions. Our findings suggest more could be done to reduce the impact on pregnant women during an already difficult, anxious period.
Invasive Solid Papillary Carcinoma of the Nipple With Pagetoid Extension and Nodal Metastasis
Authors: Domoto Hideharu , Watanabe Akiko , Sakata Michio , Shimada Akihiko , Mukai Kiyoshi
Published: March 2018

We report a case of invasive solid papillary carcinoma (SPC) of the nipple with Pagetoid extension to the skin and lymph node metastasis. SPC is an uncommon primary breast cancer accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancers. Only 2 cases occurring in the nipple have been reported. However, both cases were without Pagetoid extension or lymph node metastasis. The presently reported tumor consisted of irregularly shaped solid cell nests with delicate fibrovascular cores. The tumor cells had round nuclei with low-grade atypia and eosinophilic cytoplasm. Neuroendocrine differentiation was confirmed by immunohistochemical positivity for CD56, synaptophysin, and chromogranin A. Immunohistochemistry also confirmed the absence of myoepithelial cells around the tumor cell nests. Therefore, a diagnosis of invasive SPC was made. Additionally, tumor cell deposits in the intramammary and axillary lymph nodes were identified, and these deposits had the same histological characteristics as the invasive SPC of the nipple. The invasiveness of SPC can be difficult to determine. However, the tumor cell nests in the current case exhibited a retraction artifact, which is known to be associated with invasive carcinoma and a poor prognosis, as well as morphological patterns that have been previously identified as characteristic of invasive SPC. Although SPC is widely recognized as having a favorable outcome, the existence of exceptionally aggressive cases occurring in the nipple must be recognized. Additional cases of invasive SPC of the nipple are needed to analyze the clinicopathological correlation.
Incidence, Risk Factors, and Treatment of Achilles Tendon Rupture in Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Humbyrd Casey Jo , Bae Sunjae , Kucirka Lauren M. , Segev Dorry L.
Published: March 2018

Background:

Dialysis-dependent patients and kidney transplant recipients may be at increased risk for Achilles tendon rupture (ATR).

Methods:

We studied Medicare patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) from 1999 through 2013. Patients were categorized as waitlisted for a transplant, not waitlisted, or received a transplant. We performed multivariate negative binomial regression using demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and year of study entry to estimate adjusted incidence rate ratios (aIRRs), identify ATR risk factors, and determine treatment patterns and outcomes.

Results:

We identified 1091 ATRs (incidence, 3.80/10 000 person-years; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.58-4.03). Compared with transplant recipients, nonwaitlisted patients had a lower incidence (aIRR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.37-0.53), and waitlisted patients had a similar incidence (aIRR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.78-1.12) of ATR. ATR incidence was higher among patients taking fluoroquinolones (aIRR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.32-1.84) and corticosteroids (aIRR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.44-2.05) compared with those who did not. Patients with ATR were younger, had higher mean body mass index, and had fewer comorbidities than patients without ATR. Seventeen percent of patients received operative treatment within 14 days of ATR diagnosis. The 30-day cumulative incidence of operative site infections was 6.5%.

Conclusion:

The incidence of ATR was higher among transplant recipients and waitlisted patients compared with nonwaitlisted patients. Younger age, higher body mass index, fewer comorbidities, fluoroquinolone use, and corticosteroid use were risk factors for ATR. Patients were more likely to receive nonoperative than operative treatment for ATR. Those who underwent operative treatment had a low incidence of operative site infection.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic level III, comparative study.
Strength of Interference Screw Fixation to Cuboid vs Pulvertaft Weave to Peroneus Brevis for Tibialis Posterior Tendon Transfer for Foot Drop
Authors: Marsland Daniel , Stephen Joanna M. , Calder Toby , Amis Andrew A. , Calder James D. F.
Published: March 2018

Background:

Tibialis posterior (TP) tendon transfer is an effective treatment for foot drop. Currently, standard practice is to immobilize the ankle in a cast for 6 weeks nonweightbearing, risking postoperative stiffness. To assess whether early active dorsiflexion and protected weightbearing could be safe, the current study assessed tendon displacement under cyclic loading and load to failure, comparing the Pulvertaft weave (PW) to interference screw fixation (ISF) in a cadaveric foot model.

Methods:

Twenty-four cadaveric ankles had TP tendon transfer performed, 12 with the PW technique and 12 with ISF to the cuboid. The TP tendon was cycled 1000 times at 50 to 150 N and then loaded to failure in a materials testing machine. Tendon displacement at the insertion site was recorded every 100 cycles. An independent t test and 2-way analysis of variance were performed to compare techniques, with a significance level of P < .05.

Results:

Mean tendon displacement was similar in the PW group (2.9 ± 2.5 mm [mean ± SD]) compared with the ISF group (2.4 ± 1.1 mm), P = .35. One specimen in the ISF group failed early by tendon pullout. None of the PW group failed early, although displacement of 8.9 mm was observed in 1 specimen. Mean load to failure was 419.1 ± 82.6 N in the PW group in comparison to 499.4 ± 109.6 N in the ISF group, P = .06.

Conclusion:

For TP tendon transfer, ISF and PW techniques were comparable, with no differences in tendon displacement after cyclical loading or load to failure. Greater variability was observed in the PW group, suggesting it may be a less reliable technique.

Clinical Relevance:

The results indicate that early active dorsiflexion and protected weightbearing may be safe for clinical evaluation, with potential benefits for the patient compared with cast immobilization.
Robot-Assisted Versus Laparoscopy-Assisted Proximal Gastrectomy for Early Gastric Cancer in the Upper Location
Authors: Zhang Kecheng , Huang Xiaohui , Gao Yunhe , Liang Wenquan , Xi Hongqing , Cui Jianxin , Li Jiyang , Zhu Minghua , Liu Guoxiao , Zhao Huazhou , Hu Chong , Liu Yi , Qiao Zhi , Wei Bo , Chen Lin
Published: March 2018

Background:

An increasing amount of attention has been paid to minimally invasive function-preserving gastrectomy, with an increase in incidence of early gastric cancer in the upper stomach. This study aimed to compare oncological outcomes, surgical stress, and nutritional status between robot-assisted proximal gastrectomy (RAPG) and laparoscopy-assisted proximal gastrectomy (LAPG).

Methods:

Eighty-nine patients were enrolled in this retrospective study between November 2011 and December 2013. Among them, 27 patients underwent RAPG and 62 underwent LAPG. Perioperative parameters, surgical stress, nutritional status, disease-free survival, and overall survival were compared between the 2 groups.

Results:

Sex, age, and comorbidity were similar in the RAPG and LAPG groups. There were also similar perioperative outcomes regarding operation time, complications, and length of hospital stay between the groups. The reflux esophagitis rates following RAPG and LAPG were 18.5% and 14.5%, respectively ( P = .842). However, patients in the RAPG group had less blood loss ( P = .024), more harvested lymph nodes ( P = .021), and higher costs than those in the LAPG group ( P < .001). With regard to surgical stress, no significant differences were observed in C-reactive protein concentrations and white blood cell count on postoperative days 1, 3, and 7 between the groups ( Ps > .05). There appeared to be higher hemoglobin levels at 6 months ( P = .053) and a higher body mass index at 12 months ( P = .056) postoperatively in patients in the RAPG group compared with those in the LAPG group, but this difference was not significant. Similar disease-free survival and overall survival rates were observed between the groups.

Conclusions:

RAPG could be an alternative to LAPG for patients with early gastric cancer in the upper stomach with comparable oncological safety and nutritional status. Further well-designed, prospective, large-scale studies are needed to validate these results.
The Heterogeneity of Levels of Green Innovation by Firms in International Contexts: A Study Based on the Home-Country Institutional Profile
Authors: Leyva-de la Hiz Dante I. , Hurtado-Torres Nuria , Bermúdez-Edo María
Published: March 2018

The institutional perspective is becoming an increasingly important approach for explaining sustainability behavior in an international context. Drawing on insights from institutional theory and natural environment literature, we propose that the utilization of international firms’ technological intensity to generate green innovations is conditioned by their home-country institutional profile. This article analyzes a panel of 5,024 environmental patents belonging to 80 international firms during the period 2005 to 2009. The results show that firms from countries with environmental institutional weakness reinforce their utilization of technological capabilities to generate environmental innovations in international contexts. Our results support the previous literature regarding the influence of technological intensity on the development of innovations, and we add new evidence that considers the moderating impact of the home-country institutional profile.
Does the real-time ultrasound guidance provide safer venipuncture in implantable venous port implantation?
Authors: Yıldırım İlknur , Tütüncü Ayşe Çiğdem , Bademler Süleyman , Özgür İlker , Demiray Mukaddes , Karanlık Hasan
Published: March 2018

Aim:

To examine whether the real-time ultrasound-guided venipuncture for implantable venous port placement is safer than the traditional venipuncture.

Methods:

The study analyzed the results of 2153 venous ports placed consecutively from January 2009 to January 2016. A total of 922 patients in group 1 and 1231 patients in group 2 were admitted with venous port placed using the traditional landmark subclavian approach and real-time ultrasound-guided axillary approach, respectively. Sociodemographic characteristics of patients, early (pneumothorax, pinch-off syndrome, arterial puncture, hematoma, and malposition arrhythmia) and late (deep vein thrombosis, obstruction, infection, erosion-dehiscence, and rotation of the port chamber) complications and the association of these complications with the implantation method were evaluated.

Results:

There were no significant differences in the sociodemographic characteristics of the patients between the two groups. The overall and early complications in group 2 were significantly lower than those in group 1. Pinch-off syndrome only developed in group 1. Seven patients and two patients had pneumothorax in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Puncture number was significantly associated with the development of the overall complications.

Conclusion:

The ultrasound-guided axillary approach may be preferred as a method to reduce the risk of both early and late complications. Large, randomized, controlled prospective trials will be helpful in determining a safer implantable venous port implantation technique.
Factors of variation, maintenance and change in Scandinavian heritage languages
Authors: Johannessen Janne Bondi
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectives/purpose/research questions:

I investigate variation and change in heritage languages, focusing on descendants of 19th-/early 20th-century North Germanic immigrant languages in America. A battery of predictors (e.g. token frequency, language attitude) are compared against a baseline grammar, something often framed in terms of ‘transfer’, ‘incomplete acquisition’ and ‘attrition’. I examine which particular changes have been attributed to which factors.

Design/methodology/approach, data and analysis:

I synthesise and draw new conclusions from previous research on heritage Scandinavian.

Findings/Conclusions:

Relevant factors belong to two main categories: those favouring maintenance and those more likely to trigger change. Factors that support maintenance are structural ones (typically syntax, phonology and morphology), frequency of use and external factors. Factors that contribute to change are articulation, language attitudes and a series of cognitive aspects: incomplete acquisition and attrition, transfer and convergence, processing, memory, complexity and overgeneralisation.

Originality:

I undertake a comparative synthesis of patterns of change and non-change from baseline varieties.

Significance and implications:

This opens a door to investigating how factors correlate, what causal connections can be found and what levels of language are affected by what factors.
The effect of language on recognition memory in first language and second language speakers: The case of placement events
Authors: Koster Dietha , Cadierno Teresa
Published: March 2018

Aims and Objectives/Purpose/Research questions:

German and Spanish differ in lexicalization of object position in placement events (e.g. They stand/lay-put the binoculars on the shelf). Do native (L1) speakers of these languages show different recognition memory for object position in placement scenes (“Thinking for Speaking” (TFS))? And if so, can learning German as a second language (L2) improve memory accuracy?

Originality:

There is very little research on the effect of language on memory in L2 speakers and no such studies have focused on placement events. By adopting a short time course (750 ms) between the prime and recognition phase this study makes a methodological advancement.

Design/Methodology/Approach:

We employed a design with L1 speakers ( N = 54) of German and Spanish, and a group of Spanish L2 learners ( N = 123) of German. Participants were presented with a two-phased memory task with minimum delay, with language and pictures showing placement events. Following the direction indicated by German placement verbs we changed position of objects in the picture recognition phase. L2 German speakers received a form-focused instruction on German placement verbs (stand/lay) before the memory task.

Data and Analysis:

We analysed recognition accuracy for object position changes.

Findings/Conclusions:

Results showed that L1 German speakers had more accurate recognition memory for object position changes than L1 Spanish speakers. When Spanish learners of L2 German performed the experiment in German, their accuracy exceeded L1 German speakers’ scores.

Significance/Implications:

The findings provide support for TFS effects on memory for object position in placement events for L1 speakers and show accuracy advantages for L2 speakers. Future studies should consider employing tasks with short time courses as the one used in this paper, in order to establish a base of controlled and reliable findings to unravel the linguistic relativity literature.
The wartime narrative in US sociology, 1940–1947
Authors: Rawls Anne Warfield
Published: March 2018

This is an article about the history of US sociology with systematic intent. It goes back to World War II to recover a wartime narrative context through which sociologists formulated a ‘trauma’ to the discipline and ‘blamed’ qualitative and values-oriented research for damaging the scientific status of sociology. This narrative documents a discussion of the changes that sociologists said needed to be made in sociology as a science to repair its status and reputation. While debates among sociologists about theory and method had always been contentious, the wartime narrative insisted for the first time that sociology be immediately unified around quantitative approaches. The narrative of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ science that developed during the war not only undermined the efforts of social interactionists to theorize social action and social justice, but also derailed Parsons’ pre-war effort to bridge differences. The moral coding that is the legacy of the narrative stigmatized important approaches to sociology, leading to a ‘crisis’ in the 1960s that still haunts the discipline. Disciplinary history has overlooked the wartime narrative with the result that the role played by World War II in effecting this crisis has gone unrecognized.
Back from Holyrood: How mixed-member proportional representation and ballot structure shape the personal vote
Authors: Parker David CW , Richter Caitlyn M
Published: March 2018

Research on mixed-member legislatures demonstrates that members face different incentive structures when cultivating a personal vote. In this article, we examine how Scotland’s adoption of a mixed-member proportional system (MMP) and a change in ballot structure affect the legislative activities undertaken and emphasised by Members of Scottish Parliament (MSPs). Utilising a range of measures of legislative behaviour, we find that MSPs representing constituencies spend less time legislating and more time engaged in constituent service work. Regional members, conversely, lodge more parliamentary motions when not listed on the ballot and sponsor more members’ bills than constituency-based colleagues when on the ballot. We conclude that electoral structures directly affect the representational styles MSPs adopt, while calling for conceptual reconsideration of the personal vote.
Use of procalcitonin as a biomarker for sepsis in moderate to major paediatric burns
Authors: Hollén Linda , Hughes Ryan , Dodds Nick , Coy Karen , Marlow Karen , Pullan Nicola , Davies Julie , Dailami Narges , Keating Katrina , Falder Sian , Shah Mamta , Young Amber
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Accurate and early detection of sepsis poses a significant challenge in burn populations. Our objective was to assess whether procalcitonin is a marker of blood culture positive sepsis in moderate to severe paediatric burns.

Methods

We analysed procalcitonin levels in 27 children admitted with burns of 15–65% total body surface area. Procalcitonin was measured at admission (baseline), 24 and 48 h post-admission and during periods of suspected sepsis (diagnosed against pre-defined criteria). Patients were categorised into controls with no episodes of suspected sepsis ( n = 10) and those with episodes of suspected sepsis ( n = 17). The latter were split into two groups based on blood culture results: culture positive (bacteraemia) and culture negative patients.

Results

Baseline procalcitonin levels increased with burn size (odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.15 (1.02–1.29)). Suspected sepsis patients had larger burns than controls (median 31 vs. 20%; p = 0.003). Only 5/23 suspected sepsis episodes were blood culture positive. Procalcitonin levels were similar in culture positive and culture negative patients ( p = 0.43). Sensitivity for predicting positive blood culture was 100% (95% confidence interval: 47.8–100.0%) but specificity was only 22.2% (95% confidence interval: 6.4–47.6%). Area under the curve was poor at 0.62 (95% confidence interval: 0.33–0.90). There was no significant change in procalcitonin levels from baseline to septic episode in either group (positive: p = 0.35; negative: p = 0.95).

Conclusion

We conclude that evidence for the use of procalcitonin to diagnose bacteraemia in this population is poor, with burn size playing a significant role implying a correlation with systemic inflammation rather than sepsis.
Women who frequent soup kitchens: A cultural, gender-mainstreaming perspective
Authors: Possick Chaya
Published: March 2018

The aim of this qualitative study is to explore the meanings Israeli women who frequent soup assign to this experience. The study is based on participant observation and 16 recorded interviews with women in eight soup kitchens in Israel. The study adopts a gender-mainstreaming approach to food security that privileges the life knowledge of women living in poverty. The grounded theory method was employed in the collection and analysis of the data-field notes and interviews.

Findings

Four main categories regarding women’s constructions of motivations for frequenting soup kitchens emerged: (1) nutritional needs, (2) feeding others, (3) overall economic strategy, and (4) social needs. The issue of dealing with shame is also explored from a humanist and cultural perspective.

Applications

The findings indicate the need for social workers to consider food security, and eating arrangements when making assessments, evaluating interventions and developing programs and policies in all practice settings. Social workers need to provide information about community food services that are accessible and user-friendly for their women clients who deal with food insecurity and social isolation. Soup kitchens should be structured to allow for active participation of the service users in the administration and operation of food security programs. Finally, social workers should adopt a critical, feminist position regarding women’s use of soup kitchens as an oppressive survival strategy that stems from inequality in gender and class power relations.
Monitoring of environmental loading effect on the steel with different plastic deformation by diffuse ultrasound
Authors: Xie Fan , Li Weibin , Zhang Yuxiang
Published: March 2018

Diffuse ultrasound is highly sensitive to changes in mechanical properties. Based on the coda wave interferometry analysis, we investigate the environmental temperature-induced wave velocity variations in high-manganese steels with plastic deformations by diffuse ultrasound. We observe the velocity changes in the materials at test with [Formula: see text] relative resolution. We propose the temperature-dependent coefficient as the key parameter for damage assessment in the specimens with different plastic deformations. The results show that the early-stage damage caused by plastic deformation in the specimens at test varying from 6% to 14% are successfully characterized by temperature-dependent coefficients in the absence of external mechanical load. The theoretical analysis on the sensitivity of the temperature-dependent coefficient to plastic deformation as well as the potential on-site application is discussed in this article.
Stabilizing local boundary conditions for two-dimensional shallow water equations
Authors: Dia Ben Mansour , Oppelstrup Jesper
Published: March 2018

In this article, we present a sub-critical two-dimensional shallow water flow regulation. From the energy estimate of a set of one-dimensional boundary stabilization problems, we obtain a set of polynomial equations with respect to the boundary values as a requirement for the energy decrease. Using the Riemann invariant analysis, we build stabilizing local boundary conditions that guarantee the stability of the hydrodynamical state around a given steady state. Numerical results for the controller applied to the nonlinear problem demonstrate the performance of the method.
An approach for evaluating connectivity of interrupted rail networks with bus bridging services
Authors: Yang Yang , Ding Hong-xiang , Chen Feng , Yang Hui-min
Published: March 2018

The paper proposes an analytical framework for evaluating, in the case of interrupted conditions, the effect of bus bridging services on the degree of connectivity of rail networks. The average travel time is used to compare a normal network and an interrupted rail network. Different situations in interrupted rail network are compared with a normal network, namely, making passengers wait for troubleshooting, detouring them to other routes, and the bus bridging service strategy. The study uses ratios of average travel time under various situations to assess the connectivity of interrupted rail transit. The approach is applied to a case study based on the Beijing public transit system and actual travel data. It found that bus bridging is a relatively effective method of enhancing the connectivity of metro network and minimizing delays. In particular, key factors such as the behavior of affected passengers, the willingness to use bus bridging service, and transfer passenger, which influence connectivity of interrupted rail networks with bus bridging services, are provided.
Adult Presentation of Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency: 2 Illustrative Cases of Phenotypic Variability and Literature Review
Authors: Pizzi Michael A. , Alejos David , Hasan Tasneem F. , Atwal Paldeep S. , Krishnaiengar Suparna R. , Freeman William D.
Published: March 2018

Ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency is an X-linked recessive disorder that usually presents in the neonatal period. Late-onset presentation of OTC can cause mild to severe symptoms. We describe laboratory and clinical findings of late-onset presentations of OTC deficiency. We conducted a literature search using search terms “ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency,” “late onset presentation,” and “hyperammonemia” from January 1, 1987, to December 31, 2016, was performed. Only papers published in English were included. We searched on PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar. We also present 2 OTC deficiency cases. A total of 30 adult cases had late-onset presentation of OTC deficiency reported. The majority were women (57%) with a median age of 37 years. The median level of ammonia was 308 mmol/L and the mortality rate was 30%. Our case 1 was a 40-year-old woman who succumbed to neurologic complications after a hyperammonemia crisis following an increased protein intake. Our case 2 was a 43-year-old woman with seizures associated with increased ammonia levels. Our 2 case reports show the wide phenotypic variability and severity in late-onset presentation of OTC ranging from seizures to cerebral herniation. Our literature review is the first to detail published laboratory and neurologic sequelae of late-onset OTC deficiency.
From Apprentice to President
Authors: Gabriel Shira , Paravati Elaine , Green Melanie C. , Flomsbee Jason
Published: March 2018

Data suggest that the outcome of the 2016 American presidential election was a surprise to most people. We conducted a study to examine the role parasocial bonds formed with Trump due to his appearances on reality television played in his surprising victory. Results suggested that exposure to Trump though The Apprentice and through other media predicted the formation of parasocial bonds with Trump. These parasocial bonds with Trump predicted believing Trump’s promises, disregarding his unpopular statements, and having generally more positive evaluations of him. Parasocial bonds with Trump were also a significant predictor of self-reported voting behavior, even when examined concurrently with other likely predictors. This research suggests that parasocial bonds played an important role in the election of Donald Trump to President of the United States.
Carotid stenting with proximal cerebral protection in symptomatic low-grade vulnerable recurrent carotid stenosis
Authors: de Haro Joaquin , Rodriguez-Padilla Javier , Bleda Silvia , Cañibano Cristina , Michel Ignacio , Acin Francisco
Published: March 2018

Background:

Although the management of carotid disease is well established for symptomatic lesions ⩾70%, carotid revascularization for symptomatic low-grade (⩽50%) stenosis is not actually supported by data from randomized clinical trials. Such patients may occasionally have recurrent neurological symptoms despite optimal medical treatment owing to vulnerable plaques. In such cases, carotid artery stenting (CAS) may represent an option for treatment but this has not been tested in clinical trials. This study analyzed early and long-term outcomes of CAS performed in patients with low-grade symptomatic recurrent carotid stenosis.

Methods:

From a prospective registry of 322 carotid revascularization in symptomatic patients, 21 consecutive patients with low-grade symptomatic recurrent carotid stenosis who underwent CAS with proximal cerebral protection device Mo.Ma, after ruling out any other source of cerebral embolization, were involved in the study. All patients had suggestive evidence of unstable plaque or plaque ulceration.

Results:

Procedural technical success rate was 100%. No 30-day stroke or death occurred, and no patients had recurrent neurological events related to the revascularized hemisphere during follow up. No 30-day local complications were reported. No late carotid occlusions were detected. There was one late death, and no stroke-related deaths. Survival rates were 100% at 1 year and 96% at 3 years.

Conclusions:

This study shows that CAS is a well-tolerated, effective and durable treatment for patients with recurrent symptomatic low-grade carotid stenosis associated with a vulnerable plaque. Patients had excellent protection against further ischemic events and survived long enough.
Prestressed concrete targets under high rate of loading
Authors: Rajput Abhishek , Iqbal Mohammad Ashraf , Wu Chengqing
Published: March 2018

Prestressed concrete is highly being preferred as material for construction in the case of strategic and relevant structures such as, for instance, nuclear containments, armor deposits, shelters, bridges, and military bunkers. It is highly durable, fire and corrosion resistant, and non-porous. In order to study the influence of prestressing on the mechanics of deformation, energy absorption capacity, and failure modes of concrete targets, finite element simulations have been carried out using hard steel bullets and compared with the experiments carried out by the authors earlier. Prestressed concrete targets of plan size 450 mm × 450 mm and thickness of 80 mm were impacted by 0.5-kg hard steel projectiles. The concrete was designed to obtain an unconfined compressive strength of 48 MPa. An initial stress of 10% magnitude of compressive strength was induced by 4-mm-diameter high-tensile-strength (1700 MPa) steel wires in prestressed concrete targets. A grid of 8-mm-diameter steel bars was inserted in the reinforced and prestressed concrete targets to enable the straight comparison between these concretes. The prestressing in concrete has been found to be effective in reducing the volume of scabbed material as well as the ballistic resistance of prestressed concrete targets. The ballistic limit of prestressed concrete with 10% induced stress was found to be, respectively, 14% higher than that of the plain concrete target and 10.2% higher than the reinforced concrete. Failure modes predicted through finite element simulations were found in agreement with that of the actual results.
Dilemmas in the treatment of early-onset first-episode psychosis
Authors: Hayes Daniel , Kyriakopoulos Marinos
Published: March 2018

Early-onset first-episode psychosis (EOP) is a severe mental disorder that can pose a number of challenges to clinicians, young people and their families. Its assessment and differentiation from other neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions may at times be difficult, its treatment may not always lead to optimal outcomes and can be associated with significant side effects, and its long-term course and prognosis seem to be less favourable compared with the adult-onset disorder. In this paper, we discuss some dilemmas associated with the evaluation and management of EOP and propose approaches that can be used in the clinical decision-making process. A detailed and well-informed assessment of psychotic symptoms and comorbidities, a systematic approach to treatment with minimum possible medication doses and close monitoring of its effectiveness and adverse effects, and multidimensional interventions taking into consideration risks and expectations associated with EOP, are paramount in the achievement of the most favourable outcomes for affected children and young people.
The influence of a peritoneovenous shunt for cirrhotic and malignant intractable ascites on renal function
Authors: Segawa Takafumi , Kato Kenichi , Kawashima Kazuya , Suzuki Tomohiro , Ehara Shigeru
Published: March 2018

Background

Peritoneovenous shunts (PVS) are widely used for palliation of intractable ascites caused by peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) or liver cirrhosis (LC). Some patients who need PVS have renal dysfunction. However, renal dysfunction is considered a relative contraindication. Therefore, it is important to assess renal function before PVS placement.

Purpose

To evaluate the relationship between PVS and renal function.

Material and Methods

Between October 2007 and July 2015, 60 patients (PC = 47; LC = 10; others = 3) underwent PVS placement for intractable ascites. Changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and other adverse events (AEs) were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Changes in eGFR before, one day after, and one week after PVS placement could be evaluated in 46 patients. The median eGFR before, one day after, and one week after was 56.5, 59.1, and 64.7 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively ( P < 0.05). These values were 61.6, 72, and 67.1 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively, in PC patients (n = 34; P < 0.05) and 28.5, 27, and 37.2 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively, in LC patients (n = 10; P < 0.05). In 17 patients with moderate to severe renal dysfunction (eGFR < 45), these values were 23.4, 23.7, and 30.5 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively. The most frequent AE was PVS catheter obstruction, which occurred in 12 patients (20.7%). Clinical disseminated intravascular coagulation occurred in six patients (10.3%) and caused death in three patients (5.2%).

Conclusion

PVS placement for intractable ascites is associated with various AEs. However, PVS appeared to promote renal function, especially in patients with renal impairment.
Developments and challenges in probation practice: Is there a way forward for establishing effective and sustainable probation systems?
Authors: Porporino Frank John
Published: March 2018

Probation has been an historically important option for sanctioning criminal offending since the mid 1800s. Originally grounded in notions of volunteerism and community engagement to support rehabilitation of less serious offenders ‘through understanding, kindness, and sustained moral suasion’, probation was quickly institutionalized around the world as a major component of the criminal justice system. But modern probation practice is now struggling to define its proper aim, priorities and ways of working. Probation varies considerably across jurisdictions in how it is structured and organized, how well it is resourced, and how commonly it is used. But clearly what modern probation practice is ‘able’ to do in many jurisdictions does not match with what it ‘should’ do. The article will highlight some key challenges faced by probation and suggest some ways forward for it to get closer to what it ‘should’ do – in adopting a well- integrated and evidence informed model of practice.
The Posterior Use of BMP-2 in Cervical Deformity Surgery Does Not Result in Increased Early Complications: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Iyer Sravisht , Kim Han Jo , Bao Hongda , Smith Justin S. , Gupta Munish , Albert Todd J. , Protopsaltis Themistocles S. , Mundis Gregory M. , Passias Peter , Neuman Brian J. , Klineberg Eric O. , Lafage Virginie , Ames Christopher P.
Published: March 2018

Study Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Objectives:

To describe the rate of short-term complications following the posterior use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein–2 (rhBMP-2) in cervical deformity (CD) surgery.

Methods:

CD patients from 2013 to 2015 were enrolled in a prospective, multicenter database. Patients were divided into those receiving rhBMP-2 (BMP) and no rhBMP-2 (NOBMP). The relationship between BMP use, demographic variables surgical variables, radiographic parameters and complications was evaluated.

Results:

A total of 100 patients (47 BMP, 53 NOBMP) were included. Follow-up time averaged 7.6 months (range 3-12 months). An average of 13.6mg of BMP was used per person with 1.49 mg per level. Compared with the NOBMP group, patients in the BMP group were older ( P = .03). BMP was more commonly used in patients that and had longer prior fusions (6.0 vs 2.5, P < .01). There were no differences between groups with regards to a history of surgery, Charlson Comorbidity Index, estimated blood loss, operation time, fusion levels, and surgical approach. The maintenance of radiographic parameters at 6-month follow-up was similar. There were no differences in terms of total complication incidence, total complications per person, major complications per person or any specific complication. Linear regression and Pearson correlation analysis did not reveal any strong r2 values ( r2 = 0.09, 0.08, 0.06) between the use of BMP and complications (major or operative).

Conclusions:

BMP use was not directly associated with an increased incidence of early complications in this prospective cohort of operative adult CD patients. Its use was associated with increased number of levels instrumented and fused.
Prediction of Scoliosis Curve Correction Using Pedicle Screw Constructs in AIS: A Comparison of Fulcrum Bend Radiographs and Traction Radiographs Under General Anesthesia
Authors: Tokala Devi Prakash , Nelson Ian W. , Mehta Jwalant S. , Powell Roy , Grannum Sean , Hutchinson M. John
Published: March 2018

Study Design:

Retrospective radiographic review.

Objectives:

Our objectives were to (1) compare the ability of fulcrum bend radiographs and traction radiographs under general anesthesia to predict correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using pedicle screw only constructs and (2) compare the fulcrum bend correction index (FBCI) with a new measurement: the traction correction index (TCI).

Methods:

This is a retrospective radiographic review of 80 AIS patients (62 female and 18 male), who underwent scoliosis correction with pedicle screw only constructs. The mean age at surgery was 14 years (range 9-20 years). Radiographic analysis was carried out on the preoperative and immediate postoperative posteroanterior standing radiographs and the preoperative fulcrum bend radiographs and traction radiographs under general anesthesia. FBCI is calculated by dividing the correction rate by the fulcrum flexibility and TCI is calculated by dividing the correction rate by the traction flexibility.

Results:

Preoperative mean Cobb angle of 63.9° was corrected to 25.8° postoperatively. The mean fulcrum bending Cobb angle was 37.6° and traction Cobb angle was 26.6°. The mean fulcrum flexibility was 41.1%, traction flexibility 58.4%, and correction rate 59.6%. The median FBCI was 137% and TCI was 104.3%.

Conclusions:

When comparing fulcrum bend and traction radiographs, we found the traction radiographs to be more predictive of curve correction in AIS using pedicle screw constructs. TCI takes into account the curve flexibility better than FBCI.
Adjacent Segment Disease After Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Case Series of 1000 Patients
Authors: Okuda Shinya , Yamashita Tomoya , Matsumoto Tomiya , Nagamoto Yukitaka , Sugiura Tsuyoshi , Takahashi Yoshifumi , Maeno Takafumi , Iwasaki Motoki
Published: March 2018

Study Design:

Retrospective study.

Objective:

There have been few reports of adjacent segment disease (ASD) after posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) with large numbers and long follow-up. The purpose of this study was to investigate (1) ASD incidence and time periods after primary PLIF, (2) repeat ASD incidence and time periods, and (3) ASD incidence and time periods by fusion length, age, and preoperative pathologies.

Methods:

A total of 1000 patients (average age 67 years, average follow-up 8.3 years) who underwent PLIF for degenerative lumbar disorders were reviewed. ASD was defined as a symptomatic condition in which revision surgery was required.

Results:

The overall ASD rate was 9.0%, and the average ASD period was 4.7 years after primary surgery. With respect to clinical features of ASD, degenerative spondylolisthesis at the cranial fusion segment was the most frequent. In terms of repeat ASD, second and third ASD incidences were 1.1% and 0.4%, respectively. As for ASD by fusion length, age, and preoperative pathologies, ASD incidence was increased by fusion length, while the time period to ASD was significantly shorter in elderly patients and those with degenerative lumbar scoliosis.

Conclusions:

In the present study, the overall ASD incidence was 9.0%, and the average ASD period was 4.7 years after primary operation. Second and third ASD incidences were 1.1% and 0.4%, respectively. Fusion length affected the ASD incidence, while aging factor and preoperative pathology affected the ASD time period.
‘Populism as a medium of mass mobilization’: The case of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
Authors: Türk H Bahadir
Published: March 2018

It goes without saying that Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has put his mark on the last 14 years of Turkish politics. The main argument of this study is that the case of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan provides an illustrative example to make sense of populism as a medium of mass mobilization. Furthermore, it is argued that Erdoğan’s leadership can be best understood by taking into account how he manages political crises. Accordingly, through the examples of 2007, 2013 and 2016, which mark critical periods in Turkish politics, the article attempts to highlight the major characteristics of Erdoğan’s populist leadership.
Access Is Necessary but Not Sufficient: Factors Influencing Delay and Avoidance of Health Care Services
Authors: Smith Kyle T. , Monti Denise , Mir Nageen , Peters Ellen , Tipirneni Renuka , Politi Mary C.
Published: March 2018

Background: Despite recently expanded access to health insurance, consumers still face barriers to using their coverage to obtain needed health care. Objective: To examine the characteristics of those who delay or avoid health care due to costs. Methods: Participants were recruited via Amazon MTurk and completed a survey assessing demographic characteristics, financial toxicity, health care minimizer-maximizer tendencies, health insurance knowledge, numeracy, delaying/avoiding any care, and delaying/avoiding six common health care services (three preventive and three nonpreventive services). Validated measures were used when available. Delay/avoidance behaviors were categorized into delaying/avoiding any care, preventive care, and nonpreventive care. Logistic regression models examined 1) financial toxicity, 2) minimizer-maximizer tendencies, 3) numeracy, 4) health insurance knowledge, and 5) knowledge of preventive care coverage separately on three forms of delay/avoidance behaviors, controlling for chronic conditions, insurance status, and/or income where appropriate. Results: Of 518 respondents, 470 did not fail attention-check questions and were used in analyses. Forty-five percent of respondents reported delaying/avoiding care due to cost. Multivariable analyses found that financial toxicity was related to delaying/avoiding any care (odds ratio [OR] = 0.884, P < 0.001), preventive care (OR = 0.906, P < 0.001), and nonpreventive care (OR = 0.901, P < 0.001). A tendency to minimize seeking health care (OR = 0.734, P < 0.001) and lower subjective numeracy (OR = 0.794, P = 0.023) were related to delaying/avoiding any care. General health insurance knowledge (OR = 0.989, P = 0.023) and knowledge of preventive care coverage (OR = 0.422, P < 0.001) were related to delaying/avoiding preventive care. Conclusions: Many people delay or avoid health care due to costs, even when insured. Results suggest that there may be different reasons individuals delay or avoid preventive and nonpreventive care. Findings may inform interventions to educate consumers and support discussions about health care costs to facilitate appropriate health care utilization.
The curious death – and life? – of British transport policy
Authors: Docherty Iain , Shaw Jon , Marsden Greg , Anable Jillian
Published: March 2018

This article analyses the transport policy record of the 2010–2015 Conservative–Liberal Democrat Coalition and 2015–2016 Conservative majority UK governments. We argue that the style of policy making under these administrations departed significantly from that of previous decades, which had been characterised by the ascendancy of specific technical disciplines and decision-making norms about how transport planning should be carried out. Our key contention is that despite abandoning the idea of a single, overall narrative for transport policy, these governments (perhaps unwittingly) gave new life to broader debates about what transport investment is actually for and how investment decisions should be made. We interpret this as a shift away from the longstanding idea of a ‘deliberate’ strategy of intervention to a more ‘emergent’ approach, which raises important new questions about the future of transport policy both in terms of the objectives it seeks to realise and the relative influence of professional/technical and political actors in the policy process.
Northeastern Beauty-care Female Workers in South India: Experiencing the ‘Body’, Economic Inclusion and Social Exclusion as Migrants
Authors: Deori Banti , Rajagopalan Prema
Published: March 2018

This article analyses three issues: (i) female migration from northeastern states of India to two southern cities of India, Chennai and Bangalore, employed in the beauty-care sector; (ii) the broad socio-demographic characteristics of female migrants; and (iii) the role of social and cultural capital in inclusion and exclusion of these migrants in the two southern cities. The article discusses the migration process using an intersectionality approach and focuses on how women have become the central players in Migration Studies. The article explores the broad socio-demographic factors associated with their migrations and also examines the problems and harassment faced by the female migrants from northeastern states working in the beauty-care sector. The article advocates the analysis of migratory processes within the broader framework of gender, race, ethnicity and the changing labour market in urban regions of India.