bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacological guidelines for schizophrenia: a systematic review and comparison of recommendations for the first episode
Authors: Keating Dolores , McWilliams Stephen , Schneider Ian , Hynes Caroline , Cousins Gráinne , Strawbridge Judith , Clarke Mary
Published: January 2017

Objectives

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) support the translation of research evidence into clinical practice. Key health questions in CPGs ensure that recommendations will be applicable to the clinical context in which the guideline is used. The objectives of this study were to identify CPGs for the pharmacological treatment of first-episode schizophrenia; assess the quality of these guidelines using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) instrument; and compare recommendations in relation to the key health questions that are relevant to the pharmacological treatment of first-episode schizophrenia.

Methods

A multidisciplinary group identified key health questions that are relevant to the pharmacological treatment of first-episode schizophrenia. The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, websites of professional organisations and international guideline repositories, were searched for CPGs that met the inclusion criteria. The AGREE II instrument was applied by three raters and data were extracted from the guidelines in relation to the key health questions.

Results

In total, 3299 records were screened. 10 guidelines met the inclusion criteria. 3 guidelines scored well across all domains. Recommendations varied in specificity. Side effect concerns, rather than comparative efficacy benefits, were a key consideration in antipsychotic choice. Antipsychotic medication is recommended for maintenance of remission following a first episode of schizophrenia but there is a paucity of evidence to guide duration of treatment. Clozapine is universally regarded as the medication of choice for treatment resistance. There is less evidence to guide care for those who do not respond to clozapine.

Conclusions

An individual's experience of using antipsychotic medication for the initial treatment of first-episode schizophrenia may have implications for future engagement, adherence and outcome. While guidelines of good quality exist to assist in medicines optimisation, the evidence base required to answer key health questions relevant to the pharmacological treatment of first-episode schizophrenia is limited.
Optimising secondary prevention in the acute period following a TIA of ischaemic origin
Authors: Heron Neil
Published: January 2017

Background

Transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs) are highly prevalent conditions, with at least 46 000 people per year in the UK having a TIA for the first time. TIAs are a warning that the patient is at risk of further vascular events and the 90-day risk of vascular events following a TIA, excluding events within the first week after diagnosis when the risk is highest, can be as high as 18%. Immediate assessment of patients with TIA, either at accident and emergency, general practice and/or TIA clinics, is therefore required to address secondary prevention and prevent further vascular events.

Discussion

This article addresses the need for optimising secondary prevention in the acute period following a TIA of ischaemic origin to reduce the risk of further vascular events as per recent Cochrane review advice and presents a novel project, Stroke Prevention Rehabilitation Intervention Trial of Exercise (SPRITE), to do this.

One novel way to tackle vascular risk factors and promote secondary prevention in patients with TIA could be to adapt a cardiac rehabilitation programme for these patients. SPRITE, a feasibility and pilot study (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT02712385) funded by the National Institute for Health Research, is attempting to adapt a home-based cardiac rehabilitation programme, ‘The Healthy Brain Rehabilitation Manual’, for use in the acute period following a TIA. The use of cardiac rehabilitation programmes post-TIA requires further research, particularly within the primary care setting.
Distance learning for updating health professionals in palliative care: a systematic review
Authors: Taroco Anderson Luiz Carvalho , Valente Tania Cristina de Oliveira , Carbogim Camila Soares
Published: January 2017

Objectives

To review literature regarding online educational initiatives in palliative care which are targeted to update health professionals and prepare distance courses suitable for a Brazilian context.

Methods

7 databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, LILACS, SCIELO, CINAHL, Science Direct and Scopus) were reviewed for published papers between January 2004 and August 2014 using the PRISMA methodology. Included studies focused on health professionals and had at least part of the course in a distance learning approach.

Results

The UK, the USA, Canada and Australia stood out within the palliative care research papers. Among the 590 articles chosen, only 14 papers were included in this review due to the inclusion criteria. 9 used a mixed approach and 5 used online methods. The length of the courses, however, varied extensively and several methods were found to have been employed for teaching purposes, including videos, audio, images, poetry and simulation cases.

Conclusions

Although the literature is abundant in this area, there is limited research exploring the construction process of courses and how they can be applied to countries with limited resources. It is important to highlight, however, that the mixed teaching strategy, which allows for theoretical and practical activities at a low cost, is imperative for countries with limited resources in healthcare. Thus, this review can support new initiatives around the world, particularly in the low-income and middle-income countries.
UK practice in the prevention of central venous catheter-associated thrombosis in adults on home parenteral nutrition
Authors: Macdougall L , Hanley J , Mountford C , Thompson N P
Published: January 2017

Background

Maintaining central access is imperative for the delivery of home parenteral nutrition (HPN) in those with intestinal failure. Methods to reduce central venous catheter infection are well recognised; however, the prevention of line thrombosis is less well studied.

Methods

This paper reviews the current evidence and reports a survey of current practice within the UK. Using an electronic survey, respondents were asked to detail their use of anticoagulation in different patient groups and the type of anticoagulation used.

Results

41 replies were received from 31 centres. Only one responder used low-dose warfarin routinely; 80% however anticoagulated those with a previous line thrombosis and 65% anticoagulated those that had any deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolus. The most commonly used anticoagulant was dose-adjusted warfarin aiming for an international normalised ratio of 2–3.

Conclusions

The evidence from the current literature in both HPN and the wider field is that there is no clear evidence that anticoagulation is either beneficial or harmful in the prevention of line thrombosis. This survey suggested that practice is varied across the UK likely reflecting the lack of evidence within the current literature.
Bone marrow biopsies performed by both the powered OnControl drill device and the Jamshidi needle produce adequate specimens
Authors: Jain Sarika , Enzerra Mark , Mehta Rohtesh S , Smith Roy , Djokic Miroslav
Published: January 2017

Objective

The aim of our study was to evaluate the adequacy and quality of the bone marrow (BM) obtained by OnControl powered drill (P-group) and to compare it with manual procedure (M-group).

Design

Retrospective analysis was done on 75 BM specimens; Jamshidi needle (n=44) and OnControl (n=31). Biopsy length after fixation, evaluable marrow length and total area, and fragmentation, aspiration and marrow dropout artefacts were compared.

Results

Biopsies were sufficient for diagnosis in 38/44 cases (86%) in the M-group and in 26/31 cases (83%) in the P-group. The most common reason for suboptimal/inadequate biopsies was subcortical specimens (4/6) in the M-group and aspiration artefact (5/5) in the P-group. Average length after fixation, evaluable marrow length, evaluable marrow area was comparable. Aspiration artefact was minimal (<10%) in the majority of BM samples in the M-group (31/44), while 25/31 BM in the P-group showed >10% aspiration artefact, p<0.0001.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that quality of biopsy cylinder and adequacy rate of the biopsy is comparable between both devices. OnControl device showed more aspiration artefact.
Digital pathology in the diagnostic setting: beyond technology into best practice and service management
Authors: Cheng Chee Leong , Tan Puay Hoon
Published: January 2017

Digital pathology (DP) and whole-slide imaging (WSI) technology have matured substantially over the last few years and there is growing evidence from validation studies that WSI is comparable to glass slides for histopathology diagnosis, although with some limitations, which can be appropriately minimised. Whether the controlled environment of validation studies translates to the same level of robustness when WSI is used in the actual diagnostic setting depends on the technical quality of WSI acquisition and on factors that influence the pre-image acquisition variables including the quality of glass slide inputs, and postimage acquisition variables such as access and use of WSI. The concept of ‘DP service management’ is introduced to fulfil the holistic needs of a laboratory intending to use the DP solution incorporating WSI for diagnostic purposes. The DP service management team should be an integral part of the diagnostic laboratory as it plays a central role undertaking responsibility to address an extensive range of issues from technical and training to governance and accreditation, hence ensuring a viable and sustainable diagnostic DP integration and usage. The pathologist as a specialist in the field and key decision maker of histopathology diagnoses has the duty and responsibility to acquaint and familiarise with DP and WSI when using the technology, especially on their indications and limitations, so as to take full advantage of these tools to enhance diagnostic quality.
Income and functional limitations among the aged in Europe: a trend analysis in 16 countries
Authors: von dem Knesebeck Olaf , Vonneilich Nico , Lüdecke Daniel
Published: January 2017

Background

Analyses are focused on 3 research questions: (1) Are there absolute and relative income-related inequalities in functional limitations among the aged in Europe? (2) Did the absolute and relative income-related inequalities in functional limitations among the aged change between 2002 and 2014? (3) Are there differences in the changes of income-related inequalities between European countries?

Methods

Data stem from 7 waves (2002–2014) of the European Social Survey. Samples of people aged 60 years or older from 16 European countries were analysed (N=63 024). Inequalities were measured by means of absolute prevalence rate differences and relative prevalence rate ratios of low versus high income. Meta-analyses with random-effect models were used to study the trends of inequalities in functional limitations over time.

Results

Functional limitations among people aged 60 years or older declined between 2002 and 2014 in most of the 16 European countries. Older people with a low income had higher rates of functional limitations and elevated rate ratios compared with people with high income. These inequalities were significant in many countries and were more pronounced among men than among women. Overall, absolute and relative income-related inequalities increased between 2002 and 2014, especially in Ireland, the Netherlands and Sweden.

Conclusions

High-income groups are more in favour of the observed overall decline in functional limitations than deprived groups. Results point to potential income-related inequalities in compression of morbidity in the recent past in Europe.
Republished: Moving target: transient rotational stenosis precipitating jugular bow hunter's syndrome
Authors: Brinjikji Waleed , Graffeo Christopher S , Perry Avital , Zimmerman Terence , Janus Jeffrey R , Morris Pearce P , Cascino Gregory D , Lanzino Giuseppe
Published: January 2017

A 60-year-old man presented with a 10-month history of of stereotypical spells characterized by vertigo, tinnitus, blurred vision, left hemibody numbness, and occasional syncope, precipitated by turning his head leftwards. Cerebral angiography and CT angiography of the head and neck with provocative maneuvers did not demonstrate vertebral artery narrowing. However, there was narrowing of the left internal jugular vein due to extrinsic compression from the sternocleidomastoid with leftward head rotation in the setting of hypoplasia of the right internal jugular vein. The patient underwent a cervical venogram which confirmed the finding. Manometric evaluation demonstrated a gradient of 29 mm Hg across the stenosis with the head turned leftwards compared with 1 mm Hg in the neutral position. The patient was treated with myectomies of the left sternocleidomastoid, posterior belly of the digastric, stylohyoid and omohyoid and styloid process removal. Following surgery, the patient reported complete resolution of symptoms. Repeat venography demonstrated resolution of the stenosis and pressure gradient.
Effects of morphine‐alfaxalone‐midazolam premedication, alfaxalone induction and sevoflurane maintenance on intraocular pressure and tear production in dogs
Authors: Mayordomo‐Febrer A. , Rubio M. , Martínez‐Gassent M. , López‐Murcia M. M.
Published: January 2017

Intraocular pressure (IOP) and tear production are commonly affected by general anaesthesia. It is necessary to have a good control of both to guarantee successful ophthalmic surgery. The purpose of this research was to evaluate if the protocol based on the administration of morphine‐alfaxalone‐midazolam as premedication, alfaxalone as induction and sevoflurane as maintenance, can induce changes on IOP and Schirmer's tear test (STT‐1) in healthy dogs. Twenty‐two adult mixed‐breed dogs scheduled for an ovariohysterectomy were enrolled for the study. IOP and STT‐1 were registered at baseline (T0), 5 minutes (T1), 10 minutes (T2) and 15 minutes (T3) after premedication with a morphine‐alfaxalone‐midazolam combination; 5 minutes (T4) after induction with alfaxalone and 15 minutes (T5) and 25 minutes (T6) after maintenance with sevoflurane. A one‐way analysis of variance was performed to analyse the difference between IOP and STT‐1 over time, respectively. The present study shows a slightly statistically significant increase in IOP (P<0.05) after premedication, induction and maintenance that can be associated with this anaesthetic protocol. STT‐1 showed a statistically significant reduction during all the procedures (P<0.001). These results should be taken into consideration, especially in dogs with damaged corneas, in those predisposed to glaucoma and in those due to undergo intraocular surgery. Ocular lubrication is necessary if this protocol is used.
Dispersal and density-dependent growth of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) juveniles: clumped versus dispersed stocking
Authors: Brunsdon Eric Blake , Fraser Dylan John , Ardren William Rundle , Grant James William Angus
Published: January 2017

Dispersal from nesting sites and habitat selection are essential for the fitness of young individuals and shape the distribution, growth, and persistence of populations. These processes are important to consider when releasing young, hatchery-origin fishes into the wild to restore extirpated or depleted populations. By manipulating the density of released young-of-the-year (YOY) Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), we evaluated the effects of clumped- (releasing all the fish at one location) and dispersed-stocking (releasing the fish evenly over a complete reach) treatments on juvenile habitat use, dispersal, growth, and survival. Across 14 river reaches, clump-stocked YOY density decreased and growth rate increased with distance downstream, whereas dispersed-stocked YOY densities and growth were relatively constant. Overall, density, spatial variance in density, growth, and survival did not differ between these two stocking treatments, likely due to the greater-than-expected mobility of fish in clumped-stocking reaches; YOY dispersed up to 1600 m, with 41% moving over 200 m downstream. As predicted from previous work, growth rate of individual fish was density-dependent, following a negative power curve. Our results provide insights into how the growth and survival of released individuals are altered via stocking treatments, ultimately shaping their distribution and growth rate.
Radon as a carcinogenic built-environmental pollutant
Authors: Gillmore Gavin K. , Crockett Robin G. M. , Phillips Paul S.
Published: January 2017

Radon (
222
Rn) has been highlighted by a number of authors as a significant public health concern. For example, it is the second most significant cause of lung cancer after tobacco smoking (
c.
1000–2000 and 21 000 deaths per year in the UK and USA, respectively), yet a very high proportion of the general public appears to be unaware of the risk. This chapter deals with topical radon issues, such as: radon in the workplace; radon in homes; exposure to radon during leisure activities; radon and water; measurement and monitoring; seasonal correction; remediation; cancer risks; cost–benefit analysis and cost-effectiveness; mapping; future policies; and further research. This assessment of the state of radon research is focused on the UK as an example of a country where radon has been on the governmental agenda since the late 1970s, but also highlights radon issues throughout the world in, for example, the USA, Europe and Asia.
Innovative Approaches to Improve Anti-Infective Vaccine Efficacy
Authors: Yeaman Michael R. , Hennessey John P.
Published: January 2017

Safe and efficacious vaccines are arguably the most successful medical interventions of all time. Yet the ongoing discovery of new pathogens, along with emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens and a burgeoning population at risk of such infections, imposes unprecedented public health challenges. To meet these challenges, innovative strategies to discover and develop new or improved anti-infective vaccines are necessary. These approaches must intersect the most meaningful insights into protective immunity and advanced technologies with capabilities to deliver immunogens for optimal immune protection. This goal is considered through several recent advances in host-pathogen relationships, conceptual strides in vaccinology, and emerging technologies. Given a clear and growing risk of pandemic disease should the threat of infection go unmet, developing vaccines that optimize protective immunity against high-priority and antibiotic-resistant pathogens represents an urgent and unifying imperative.
Organophosphorus Xenobiotic Toxicology
Authors: Casida John E.
Published: January 2017

Originally, organophosphorus (OP) toxicology consisted of acetylcholinesterase inhibition by insecticides and chemical threat agents acting as phosphorylating agents for serine in the catalytic triad, but this is no longer the case. Other serine hydrolases can be secondary OP targets, depending on the OP structure, and include neuropathy target esterase, lipases, and endocannabinoid hydrolases. The major OP herbicides are glyphosate and glufosinate, which act in plants but not animals to block aromatic amino acid and glutamine biosynthesis, respectively, with safety for crops conferred by their expression of herbicide-tolerant targets and detoxifying enzymes from bacteria. OP fungicides, pharmaceuticals including calcium retention agents, industrial chemicals, and cytochrome P450 inhibitors act by multiple noncholinergic mechanisms, often with high potency and specificity. One type of OP-containing fire retardant forms a highly toxic bicyclophosphate γ-aminobutyric acid receptor antagonist upon combustion. Some OPs are teratogenic, mutagenic, or carcinogenic by known mechanisms that can be avoided as researchers expand knowledge of OP chemistry and toxicology for future developments in bioregulation.
GSTP1 c.313A>G polymorphism in Russian and Polish athletes
Authors: Zarebska Aleksandra , Jastrzebski Zbigniew , Ahmetov Ildus I. , Zmijewski Piotr , Cieszczyk Pawel , Leonska-Duniec Agata , Sawczuk Marek , Leznicka Katarzyna , Trybek Grzegorz , Semenova Ekaterina A. , Maciejewska-Skrendo Agnieszka
Published: January 2017

The GSTP1 gene encodes glutathione S-transferase P1, which is a member of the glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), a family of enzymes playing an important role in detoxification and in the antioxidant defense system. There is some evidence indicating that GSTP1 c.313A>G polymorphism may be beneficial for exercise performance. Therefore, we decided to verify the association between the frequency of GSTP1 c.313A>G variants, physical performance, and athletes' status in two cohorts: in a group of Russian athletes ( n = 507) and in an independent population of Polish athletes ( n = 510) in a replication study. The initial association study conducted with the Russian athletes revealed that the frequency of the minor G allele was significantly higher in all athletes than in controls; that was confirmed in the replication study of Polish athletes. In the combined cohort, the differences between athletes ( n = 1017) and controls ( n = 1246) were even more pronounced (32.7 vs 25.0%, P < 0.0001). Our findings emphasize that the G allele of the GSTP1 gene c.313A>G single nucleotide polymorphism is associated with improved endurance performance. These observations could support the hypothesis that the GSTP1 G allele may improve exercise performance by better elimination of exercise-induced ROS.
Longitudinal Study of Mammographic Density Measures That Predict Breast Cancer Risk
Authors: Krishnan Kavitha , Baglietto Laura , Stone Jennifer , Simpson Julie A. , Severi Gianluca , Evans Christopher F. , MacInnis Robert J. , Giles Graham G. , Apicella Carmel , Hopper John L.
Published: January 2017

Background: After adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI), mammographic measures—dense area (DA), percent dense area (PDA), and nondense area (NDA)—are associated with breast cancer risk. Our aim was to use longitudinal data to estimate the extent to which these risk-predicting measures track over time.

Methods: We collected 4,320 mammograms (age range, 24–83 years) from 970 women in the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study and the Australian Breast Cancer Family Registry. Women had on average 4.5 mammograms (range, 1–14). DA, PDA, and NDA were measured using the Cumulus software and normalized using the Box–Cox method. Correlations in the normalized risk-predicting measures over time intervals of different lengths were estimated using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling of Gompertz curves.

Results: Mean normalized DA and PDA were constant with age to the early 40s, decreased over the next two decades, and were almost constant from the mid-60s onward. Mean normalized NDA increased nonlinearly with age. After adjusting for age and BMI, the within-woman correlation estimates for normalized DA were 0.94, 0.93, 0.91, 0.91, and 0.91 for mammograms taken 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 years apart, respectively. Similar correlations were estimated for the age- and BMI-adjusted normalized PDA and NDA.

Conclusions: The mammographic measures that predict breast cancer risk are highly correlated over time.

Impact: This has implications for etiologic research and clinical management whereby women at increased risk could be identified at a young age (e.g., early 40s or even younger) and recommended appropriate screening and prevention strategies. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(4); 651–60. ©2017 AACR.
The Association between Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Keizman Daniel , Yang Yu-Xiao , Gottfried Maya , Dresler Hadas , Leibovitch Ilan , Haynes Kevin , Mamtani Ronac , Boursi Ben
Published: January 2017

Background: Overexpression of VEGF is implicated in the pathogenesis of both renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We evaluated the association between AMD and RCC risk.

Methods: We conducted a matched case–control study within a population-representative database from the United Kingdom. Study cases were defined as individuals with any diagnostic code of RCC. For every case, four eligible controls were matched on age, sex, practice site, calendar time, and duration of follow-up. Exposure of interest was diagnosis of AMD prior to cancer diagnosis. Adjusted ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for RCC were estimated using conditional logistic regression. In a secondary analysis, we evaluated the association between other retinopathies and RCC and AMD and the hypovascular pancreatic cancer.

Results: The study population included 1,547 patients with RCC and 6,066 matched controls. Median follow-up time was 6 years (IQR, 3–9). AMD diagnosis was associated with a significantly increased RCC risk (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.09–3.29). In contrast, there was no association between other retinopathies and RCC risk (OR, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.56–1.15). AMD was associated with a lower risk for pancreatic cancer (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.35–0.64).

Conclusions: Patients with AMD may be at higher risk for RCC. Providers should be aware of this potential link and consider screening for RCC within this population.

Impact: Providers should be aware of the potential link between AMD and RCC. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(5); 743–7. ©2017 AACR.
A Novel Application of CWMP: An Operator-grade Management Platform for IoT
Authors: Stusek Martin , Masek Pavel , Zeman Krystof , Kovac Dominik , Cika Petr , Pokorny Jiri , Kröpfl Franz
Published: January 2017

The aggressive expansion of emerging smart devices connected to the Internet infrastructure is nowadays considered as one of the most challenging components of the Internet of Things (IoT) vision. As a particular segment of IoT, the smart home gateways, also named Machine-Type Communication Gateway (MTCG), become an important direction for industry including telecommunication operators. In most cases, the MTCG acts as a bridge between connected smart objects and the public network (Internet). As a consequence of the IoT domain expansion, the separate configuration of each individual Machine-to-Machine (M2M) device is not feasible anymore due to steadily growing numbers of M2M nodes. To perform this task, several novel technologies have recently been introduced. However, legacy protocols and mechanisms for remote network management still retain a certain application potential for IoT. Accordingly, we have investigated the protocol TR-069 with a particular focus on its usability for MTCG. To this end, the software module (bundle) based on the TR-069 for remote configuration and management of MTCG, as well as for controlling the end smart devices, has been developed. We believe that our implementation (available as open source on GitHub) can serve as an important building block for efficient management of future IoT devices. Therefore, TR-069 protocol constitutes a proven and standardized technology and could be easily deployed by most of the network and service providers today. Authors would like to recall that this paper represents extended version of their previously published work at TSP 2016 conference.
Effects of Coping Skills Training on Quality of Life, Disease Biomarkers, and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Sherwood Andrew , Blumenthal James A. , Koch Gary G. , Hoffman Benson M. , Watkins Lana L. , Smith Patrick J. , O’Connor Christopher M. , Adams Kirkwood F. , Rogers Joseph G. , Sueta Carla , Chang Patricia P. , Johnson Kristy S. , Schwartz Jeanne , Hinderliter Alan L.
Published: January 2017

Background—

Heart failure (HF) is a chronic disease that compromises patients’ quality of life (QoL). Interventions designed to reduce distress and improve disease self-management are needed. We evaluated the efficacy of a telephone-based coping skills training (CST) intervention.

Methods and Results—

This randomized clinical trial involved 180 HF outpatients with reduced ejection fraction. Participants ranged in age from 29 to 87 years (mean=58 years); 27% were women, and 47% were nonwhite. Participants were randomized to either a CST intervention or heart failure education, both delivered over 16 weeks. The primary outcomes were (1) postintervention effects on QoL and HF disease biomarkers (both with α=0.01), and (2) a composite measure of time to death or first hospitalization (with α=0.03) over a median follow-up period of 3 years. CST resulted in greater improvements in QoL compared with heart failure education (
P
<0.01), including the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (
P
=0.009), depressive symptoms (
P
=0.027), and the 6-minute walk test (
P
=0.012). However, it did not differentially improve HF disease biomarkers or reduce risk of all-cause hospitalizations or death (hazard ratio=0.84 [95% confidence interval, 0.59–1.12]). Interestingly, exploratory analyses showed that participants randomized to CST experienced a reduction in the composite end point of worsening HF hospitalization or death during the 3-year follow-up period (hazard ratio=0.65 [95% confidence interval, 0.44–0.98];
P
=0.040).

Conclusions—

CST improved QoL in patients with HF. Monitoring and improving QoL is emerging as an important aspect of the clinical management of HF that can reduce disease burden and may help improve clinical outcomes in this vulnerable patient population.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00873418.
Loss of Macrophage Wnt Secretion Improves Remodeling and Function After Myocardial Infarction in Mice
Authors: Palevski Dahlia , Levin‐Kotler La‐Paz , Kain David , Naftali‐Shani Nili , Landa Natalie , Ben‐Mordechai Tammy , Konfino Tal , Holbova Radka , Molotski Natali , Rosin‐Arbesfeld Rina , Lang Richard A. , Leor Jonathan
Published: January 2017

Background

Macrophages and Wnt proteins (Wnts) are independently involved in cardiac development, response to cardiac injury, and repair. However, the role of macrophage‐derived Wnts in the healing and repair of myocardial infarction (
MI
) is unknown. We sought to determine the role of macrophage Wnts in infarct repair.

Methods and Results

We show that the Wnt pathway is activated after
MI
in mice. Furthermore, we demonstrate that isolated infarct macrophages express distinct Wnt pathway components and are a source of noncanonical Wnts after
MI
. To determine the effect of macrophage Wnts on cardiac repair, we evaluated mice lacking the essential Wnt transporter
Wntless
(
Wls
) in myeloid cells. Significantly,
Wntless‐
deficient macrophages presented a unique subset of M2‐like macrophages with anti‐inflammatory, reparative, and angiogenic properties. Serial echocardiography studies revealed that mice lacking macrophage Wnt secretion showed improved function and less remodeling 30 days after
MI
. Finally, mice lacking macrophage‐
Wntless
had increased vascularization near the infarct site compared with controls.

Conclusions

Macrophage‐derived Wnts are implicated in adverse cardiac remodeling and dysfunction after
MI
. Together, macrophage Wnts could be a new therapeutic target to improve infarct healing and repair.
Incidence, Locations, and Longitudinal Course of Cerebral Microbleeds in European Moyamoya
Authors: Wenz Holger , Wenz Ralf , Maros Máté , Ehrlich Gregory , Al-Zghloul Mansour , Groden Christoph , Förster Alex
Published: January 2017

Background and Purpose—

Cerebral microbleeds (cMBs) have previously been linked with especially high incidence in Asian patients with moyamoya together with high tendency to bleed. This, presumably, is characteristic of patients with moyamoya. Herein, we, therefore, investigate retrospectively the frequency, location, and longitudinal course of cMBs in a large German cohort.

Methods—

We included all patients with moyamoya who underwent standard magnetic resonance imaging, including T2*-weighted images, in our department between 1998 and 2015. Two independent readers evaluated magnetic resonance imaging scans to determine the occurrence of cMBs according to the Brain Observer Microbleed Scale. Demographics, initial symptoms leading to hospitalization, and associated diseases were obtained by chart review.

Results—

Overall, there was a total of 242 T2* studies of 101 included moyamoya patients available with a strong female predominance (69.3%). Eight patients (7.9%) were ≤18 years of age. We detected 25 cMBs within 13 patients (12.9%). One patient <18 of age was presented with a cMB; 2 of 3 patients with an intracranial hemorrhage as initial event demonstrated cMB(s). In 72 of 101 cases, there were 1719 person months of follow-up, with 3 adult patients showing 3 de novo cMBs in the course. The majority of cMBs (64.0%) were located at the cortex/gray–white junction.

Conclusions—

Although the frequency of cMBs herein is much higher than the expected age-specific incidence, it is still much lower compared with previous reports on cMBs in moyamoya patients of Asian descent. These results might reflect another ethnic-specific difference in patients diagnosed with moyamoya.
אני יי רפאך: A Short Note on ἐγώ εἰµι Sayings and the Dangers of a Translation Tradition
Authors: Scharbach Wollenberg Rebecca
Published: January 2017

It is sometimes debated whether the absolute “I am” sayings in the Gospel of John should be read as a claim to divinity, in light of their similarity to the Hebrew text of Exod 3:14. What has not been recognized is that the Johannine “I am” sayings with predicate nominatives also echo the Hebrew Bible text, which includes an extensive collection of verses in which God uses the phrase “I am” with a predicate nominative. This essay offers an analysis of a selection of these Hebrew Bible parallels and proposes an explanation for why this connection has gone unremarked until now.
On Strategies against Socio-economic Residential Segregation
Authors: Arnell-Gustafsson Ulla
Published: January 2017

This article discusses measures proposed to counteract residential segrega tion. Two fundamentally differing strategies are treated: those aiming at the achievement of a greater degree of social mix in local populations, and those whose primary aim is to compensate areas with limited resources. These two kinds of measures are contrasted and compared on several bases, including their political realism, their sensitivity to political and economic swings, and their social consequences for residents.
Changes in the International Division of Labour: Theoretical Implications
Authors: Marcussen Henrik Secher
Published: January 2017

The 1980s have witnessed new Third World developments, Including new patterns of industrialization in certain nations, primarily the so-called Newly Industrializing Countnes. This industrialization has led to an increased export to the western industrialized world of internationally competitive manufactured goods, while the very same industrialization has given rise to an increased demand from the western countries of manufactured goods, primarily capital goods This tendency towards a new International Division of Labour is questioning the prevailing development theories, not least the one based on a dependency notion. The article discusses some of the theoretical and political implications of this new development, notably as related to the notion of 'blocked capital accumulation in the periphery, advocated not least by Samir Amin It is argued that the industrialization pattern in certain Third World nations seems to overcome the 'blocked' situation, perhaps establishing much more inter-linked and 'self-centred' economic structures.
Icelandic Sociology: National Conditions and the Emergence of a New Discipline
Authors: Thórlindsson Thórólfur
Published: January 2017

The establishment and direction of sociology as a discipline in Iceland are considered in ways that are pertinent to national conditions The discussion emphasizes. (a) the institutional structure of the educational system, (b) the availability of an appropriate terminology, and (c) the placement of sociology among the existing disciplines. The influence of such general characteristics of Icelandic society as nationalism, the rapid industrialization, and the size of the population, on the definition and development of Icelandic sociology are also considered.
Comparison of Transradial and Transfemoral Approaches in Women Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in China: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Jin Chen , Xu Yi , Qiao Shubin , Tang Xinran , Wu Yongjian , Yan Hongbing , Dou Kefei , Xu Bo , Yang Jingang , Xian Ying , Yang Yuejin
Published: January 2017

Despite increasing adoption of the transradial approach for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in clinical practice, the role of transradial intervention (TRI) in women remains a significant debate. We identified 1392 women from a consecutive cohort of patients undergoing PCI in China in 2010 and compared the efficacy and hospital costs between TRI and transfemoral intervention. An inverse probability weighting (IPW) method was used to control for potential bias. After IPW adjustment, patients receiving TRI were less likely to experience post-PCI bleeding (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.30-0.71) and major adverse cardiac events (adjusted OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.19-0.63) and more likely to have shorter length of stay in hospital (1.2 days difference, 95% CI: 0.6-1.7). Moreover, TRI was associated with a cost saving of ¥ (Yuan Renminbi) 7474 (approximately US$1150, 95% CI: ¥2993-¥11 624). More than 70% of this saving was driven by lower PCI-related costs. In conclusion, the use of TRI in women was associated with more favorable outcomes and lower hospital costs.
Assessment of Renal Function and Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients With Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Jia Xi-Bei , Hou Xi-Hua , Ma Qiu-Bo , Cai Xiao-Wen , Li Yi-Ran , Mu Su-Hong , Na Shi-Ping , Xie Ru-Juan , Bao Yu-Shi
Published: January 2017

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) share common risk factors. We assessed renal function and the prevalence of CKD in patients with PAD and investigated the characteristics of the risk factors for CKD in this population. Renal function of 421 patients with PAD was evaluated. Among the participants, 194 (46.1%) patients had decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The prevalence of CKD was much higher among patients with PAD. Hypertension (odds ratios [ORs] 2.156, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.413-3.289, P < .001), serum uric acid (OR 3.794, 95% CI 2.220-6.450, P < .001), and dyslipidemia (OR 1.755, 95% CI 1.123-2.745, P = .014) were significantly associated with CKD and the independent risk factors for CKD in patients with PAD. CKD is common and has a high prevalence in a population with PAD. Patients with PAD may be considered as a high-risk population for CKD. Recognition and modification of risk factors for CKD might beneficially decrease CKD incidence and improve prognosis in patients with PAD.
Analyzing the Area Under the Curve of Pharyngeal pH Probes in the Diagnosis of Reflux Disease
Authors: Jones Joel W. , Sykes Kevin J. , Pavelonis Anna , Pappu Hema , Nguyen Amy M. , Garnett James D.
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

To analyze the area under the curve (AUC) from 24-hour pharyngeal pH probes and evaluate this parameter as a predictor of disease severity for laryngopharyngeal reflux.

Methods:

Eighty patients met inclusion criteria of a completed 24-hour pharyngeal pH probe and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) questionnaire. The AUC was calculated below a pH threshold of 5.5 using the trapezoidal rule. The RSI and RYAN scores were correlated with AUC values, and nonparametric tests were used for comparisons.

Results:

The median AUC value was 18 007 pH-seconds with an interquartile range (IQR) of 63 156, the median RSI score was 21 (IQR = 16), and the median RYAN score was 15.3 (IQR = 78). There was a Spearman’s correlation of .36 between the RSI scores and AUC values ( P = .001) and a moderate correlation between AUC values and RYAN scores (0.58, P < .001). An insignificant correlation of .19 between RYAN scores and RSI scores was observed ( P = .09).

Conclusions:

The AUC may be a useful objective value in establishing the diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux. Prospective studies with larger patient populations are necessary to validate these findings and determine standardized thresholds for symptomatic patients.
Ostracism and Peer Victimization in Adolescents With and Without Mental Health Diagnoses in a Public Middle School Setting
Authors: Heithaus Jennifer L. , Twyman Kimberly A. , Braddock Barbara A.
Published: January 2017

To better understand adolescents experiencing peer victimization, ostracism, and emotional health problems, this study aimed to describe a cohort of middle school students identified as having school peer-related social difficulties as 2 groups: those with mental health diagnoses (MHDs; n = 17) and those without diagnoses (n = 8). Participants were administered a test battery to examine communication ability, social responsiveness, social activity, ostracism, victimization, and emotional health. Results showed that adolescents with MHDs, relative to those without, scored significantly lower on measures of communication ability, social responsiveness, and social activity but similarly on measures of victimization, ostracism, and internalizing/externalizing factors. Results suggest that adolescents with and without MHDs can endure ostracism and peer victimization to a similar extent. Because ostracism and victimization have serious morbidity in adolescents, physicians and caregivers must look for signs in all adolescents, irrespective of MHD. Recommendations for appropriate primary care management are discussed.
Community Policing: Least Effective Where Need Is Greatest
Authors: Rukus Joseph , Warner Mildred E. , Zhang Xue
Published: January 2017

Little is known about the level or impact of community policing in suburban and rural communities. We surveyed more than 1,300 cities and counties and asked city managers about social cohesion, collective efficacy, and community policing variables. We find no effect of community policing on perception of safety and a positive effect on community participation only in the metro core. For suburbs and rural areas, community policing is only related to youth services. Collective efficacy is positively associated with safety perceptions across all communities but only related to community participation in suburbs and low crime communities. These results raise questions on how to better link collective efficacy and community policing in high crime communities, especially in suburbs and rural areas.
Familiar Gangsters: Gang Violence, Brotherhood, and the Media’s Fascination With a Crime Family
Authors: Gushue Kelsey , Lee Chelsey , Gravel Jason , Wong Jennifer S.
Published: January 2017

Media reports can have a significant and lasting impact on public perceptions about crime and criminals. Jonathan, Jarrod, and Jamie Bacon gained notoriety in Vancouver through substantial media coverage for their involvement in gang-related shootings and criminal activity. The present study examines how the media have portrayed the Bacon brothers and their importance in the region’s gang scene. We examine all articles published in the area’s largest newspaper, the Vancouver Sun, mentioning the Bacon family between 2008 and 2015 ( N = 401). Specifically, we explore the media’s depiction of the Bacons through developing a thematic content analysis, with themes tested in a keyword analysis using a corpora comparison with a set of reference articles. We argue that the Bacon brothers’ family relationship, tumultuous gang alliances, and alleged involvement in Vancouver’s worst gang-related shooting led to the media overreporting and sensationalizing their criminal activity and prominence in the local gang landscape. In addition, we contend that the popular theme of crime families provided the media with a narrative that proved useful in a context where the police and the courts were simultaneously trying to adapt to the emerging reality of violent gang conflict.
Is the Number of Citizens Fatally Shot by Police Increasing in the Post-Ferguson Era?
Authors: Campbell Bradley A. , Nix Justin , Maguire Edward R.
Published: January 2017

This study examines whether the number of citizens fatally shot by police in the United States has changed significantly since the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. Using longitudinal data compiled by killedbypolice.net , we use an interrupted time-series design to test the effect of events in Ferguson on fatal shootings by police. Our analyses reveal that the number of citizens killed by police is temporally unstable, exhibiting random short-term fluctuations that are often misinterpreted as evidence of substantively meaningful trends. However, after testing a variety of model specifications, we find no evidence that the number of fatal police shootings either increased or decreased post-Ferguson. Claims to the contrary are based on weak analyses of short-term trends.
The Catholic magisterium and world religions: a study in the modern history of theology
Authors: Ganeri Martin
Published: January 2017

From the time of the Second Vatican Council, the Catholic Church has sought to develop a positive approach to other religions and to interreligious relations in its official teaching. This article outlines the main themes of this teaching in Conciliar and subsequent Papal documents. The Church’s approach is seen to be rooted in the affirmation of the unity of all humanity and is always Christological and ecclesiological in character. The consequent call for dialogue and collaboration becomes a means by which Christians can share in and extend God’s own saving dialogue with humanity. The scope of dialogue has also been deepened so that it encompasses the whole of the lived relation Christians have with members of other religions. The article also considers the main ways in which Catholic theologians have extended official teaching in their more systematic approaches.
The Impact of Model Parameterization and Estimation Methods on Tests of Measurement Invariance With Ordered Polytomous Data
Authors: Koziol Natalie A. , Bovaird James A.
Published: January 2017

Evaluations of measurement invariance provide essential construct validity evidence—a prerequisite for seeking meaning in psychological and educational research and ensuring fair testing procedures in high-stakes settings. However, the quality of such evidence is partly dependent on the validity of the resulting statistical conclusions. Type I or Type II errors can render measurement invariance conclusions meaningless. The present study used Monte Carlo simulation methods to compare the effects of multiple model parameterizations (linear factor model, Tobit factor model, and categorical factor model) and estimators (maximum likelihood [ML], robust maximum likelihood [MLR], and weighted least squares mean and variance-adjusted [WLSMV]) on the performance of the chi-square test for the exact-fit hypothesis and chi-square and likelihood ratio difference tests for the equal-fit hypothesis for evaluating measurement invariance with ordered polytomous data. The test statistics were examined under multiple generation conditions that varied according to the degree of metric noninvariance, the size of the sample, the magnitude of the factor loadings, and the distribution of the observed item responses. The categorical factor model with WLSMV estimation performed best for evaluating overall model fit, and the categorical factor model with ML and MLR estimation performed best for evaluating change in fit. Results from this study should be used to inform the modeling decisions of applied researchers. However, no single analysis combination can be recommended for all situations. Therefore, it is essential that researchers consider the context and purpose of their study.