ObjectivesThis review aimed to identify the evidence for predictors of repetition of suicide attempts, and more specifically for subsequent completed suicide.MethodsWe conducted a literature search of PubMed and Embase between January 1, 1991 and December 31, 2009, and we excluded studies investigating only special populations (eg, male and female only, children and adolescents, elderly, a specific psychiatric disorder) and studies with sample size fewer than 50 patients.ResultsThe strongest predictor of a repeated attempt is a previous attempt, followed by being a victim of sexual abuse, poor global functioning, having a psychiatric disorder, being on psychiatric treatment, depression, anxiety, and alcohol abuse or dependence. For other variables examined (Caucasian ethnicity, having a criminal record, having any mood disorders, bad family environment, and impulsivity) there are indications for a putative correlation as well. For completed suicide, the strongest predictors are older age, suicide ideation, and history of suicide attempt. Living alone, male sex, and alcohol abuse are weakly predictive with a positive correlation (but sustained by very scarce data) for poor impulsivity and a somatic diagnosis.ConclusionIt is difficult to find predictors for repetition of nonfatal suicide attempts, and even more difficult to identify predictors of completed suicide. Suicide ideation and alcohol or substance abuse/dependence, which are, along with depression, the most consistent predictors for initial nonfatal attempt and suicide, are not consistently reported to be very strong predictors for nonfatal repetition.

To determine the effect of mannitol on blood viscosity, serial measurements were carried out on venous blood in patients undergoing craniotomies for intracranial aneurysms. Blood samples were drawn immediately prior to, and 30 minutes, 2, and 4 hours after administration of mannitol. Complete blood counts, serum osmolarities, and erythrocyte microsieving studies were also performed on each sample. Whole-blood viscosity decreased at 30 minutes and 2 hours, but not at 4 hours after mannitol administration. This decreased appeared at high shear rates only, where erythrocyte deformability is critical viscosity. This effect was independent of the hematocrit. Removal of mannitol from the suspension returned red cell deformability to preadministration values indicating that the increased erythrocyte deformability required the presence of mannitol and the relative hyperosmolarity induced by this agent. The reduced erythrocyte rigidity and subsequent decreased whole-blood viscosity should enhance tissue perfusion in the microcirculation.

The experimental programme was superior to general physiotherapy in reducing disability of adults with idiopathic scoliosis. Motor and cognitive rehabilitation also led to improvements in dysfunctional thoughts, pain, and quality of life. Changes were maintained for at least 1 year.

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Physiotherapy seems to be more effective than a generic exercise programme in patients with Hoehn Yahr stage II PD.

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Active stretching produced the greater gain in the AKER test, and the gain was almost completely maintained 4 weeks after the end of the training, which was not seen with the passive stretching group. Active stretching was more time efficient compared with the static stretching and needed a lower compliance to produce effects on flexibility.

The KOOS was sensitive in detecting clinical changes. The authors recommend taking the minimal important changes provided into account when assessing patient improvement or planning studies in this clinical context.