bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the Uncertainties of Reanalyzed Arctic Cloud and Radiation Properties Using Satellite Surface Observations
Authors: Huang Yiyi , Dong Xiquan , Xi Baike , Dolinar Erica K. , Stanfield Ryan E. , Qiu Shaoyue
Published: July 2017

Reanalyses have proven to be convenient tools for studying the Arctic climate system, but their uncertainties should first be identified. In this study, five reanalyses (JRA-55, 20CRv2c, CFSR, ERA-Interim, and MERRA-2) are compared with NASA CERES–MODIS (CM)-derived cloud fractions (CFs), cloud water paths (CWPs), top-of-atmosphere (TOA) and surface longwave (LW) and shortwave (SW) radiative fluxes over the Arctic (70°–90°N) over the period of 2000–12, and CloudSat–CALIPSO (CC)-derived CFs from 2006 to 2010. The monthly mean CFs in all reanalyses except JRA-55 are close to or slightly higher than the CC-derived CFs from May to September. However, wintertime CF cannot be confidently evaluated until instrument simulators are implemented in reanalysis products. The comparison between CM and CC CFs indicates that CM-derived CFs are reliable in summer but not in winter. Although the reanalysis CWPs follow the general seasonal variations of CM CWPs, their annual means are only half or even less than the CM-retrieved CWPs (126 g m−2). The annual mean differences in TOA and surface SW and LW fluxes between CERES EBAF and reanalyses are less than 6 W m−2 for TOA radiative fluxes and 16 W m−2 for surface radiative fluxes. All reanalyses show positive biases along the northern and eastern coasts of Greenland as a result of model elevation biases or possible CM clear-sky retrieval issues. The correlations between the reanalyses and CERES satellite retrievals indicate that all five reanalyses estimate radiative fluxes better than cloud properties, and MERRA-2 and JRA-55 exhibit comparatively higher correlations for Arctic cloud and radiation properties.
Projected Hydroclimatic Changes in Two Major River Basins at the Canadian West Coast Based on High-Resolution Regional Climate Simulations
Authors: Erler Andre R. , Peltier W. Richard
Published: July 2017

The impact of anthropogenic climate change on water resources and flood and drought risk is of great interest for impact modeling and to inform adaptation strategies. Here an analysis of hydroclimatic changes in the Fraser and Athabasca River basins in western Canada is presented, based on an ensemble of climate projections, which have been dynamically downscaled to 10-km resolution using the Weather Research and Forecasting Model in two configurations. The GCM ensemble comprises four independent integrations of the Community Earth System Model under the representative concentration pathway 8.5. Basin-integrated changes in the seasonal cycle of hydroclimatic variables, and the variability of water supply and flood and drought risk, are considered. It is found that fall and winter precipitation generally increase by 20%–30% toward the end of the century, while changes in summer precipitation are smaller and associated with high model uncertainty. Furthermore, a reduction in snowfall and an increase in evapotranspiration are projected. However, projected impacts on water resources east and west of the Rocky Mountains are quite different: in basins closer to the coast (west of the Rocky Mountains) higher temperatures lead to a transition from predominantly solid to liquid precipitation and a significantly weaker spring freshet, followed by drier summers. In the lee of the Rocky Mountains the spring freshet remains largely unaffected and in summer the increase in evapotranspiration (ET) is compensated by increasing precipitation, so that water balance changes appear to be small. It is further found that a shift in runoff seasonality near the coast may lead to significantly increased flood risk in fall.
Near 5-Day Nonisostatic Response to Atmospheric Surface Pressure and Coastal-Trapped Waves Observed in the Northern South China Sea
Authors: Zhao Ruixiang , Zhu Xiao-Hua , Park Jae-Hun
Published: July 2017

Oceanic, nonisostatic responses to near 5-day Rossby–Haurwitz atmospheric pressure waves have been observed in open oceans; however, such responses based on observations in marginal seas such as the South China Sea have not been reported, owing to the limited ocean bottom pressure Pbot records. The Pbot measurements from pressure recording inverted echo sounders (PIESs) at sites in the northern South China Sea revealed a nonisostatic-like response near 5 days, although the coastal-trapped waves (CTWs) appeared to obscure it because their broadband periods include the near 5-day band. Cross-spectral analysis revealed that the PIES Pbot records and the sea level (SL) records of Hong Kong all correlate strongly with the atmospheric pressure and winds over the East China Sea. This is indicative of remotely forced CTWs. The PIES Pbot records showed higher coherence near 5 days with the zonal low-pass wavelength filters applied to the atmospheric pressure, and the phase analysis results strongly suggest nonisostatic oceanic responses to the westward-propagating Rossby–Haurwitz waves. Effective separation of CTWs and the nonisostatic responses from the Pbot records at the near 5-day period was achieved. The oceanic responses to the Rossby–Haurwitz waves in the northern South China Sea were nonisostatic; a 1-mbar change in air pressure resulted in a 1.58-mbar change in Pbot with a phase lag of 14.8°. The mean phase speed of CTWs from Hong Kong to station P3 was estimated to be 9.9 m s−1.
On the Power of the Best Test of Exponentiality Against Gamma Alternatives
Authors: Patil S.A. , Kovner J.L.
Published: July 2017

Distribution of the ratio of the geometric to the arithmetic mean is obtained when the observations are taken from an exponential or gamma distribution. The distributions are used to find the critical values and power function of Shorack's T statistic for a test of exponentiality against gamma alternatives. They are also applied to some related tests.
Orthogonal F-Rectangles for all Even 
Authors: Hedayat A. S. , Federer W.T.
Published: July 2017

It is shown how to construct a pair of orthogonal v⁄2 by 2 v rectangles for all even v. Also, it is shown how to construct a set of t pairwise orthogonal v⁄2 by 2 v F-rectangles for all even v for which a set of t pairwise orthogonal Latin squares of order v exists. Some situations where these designs are useful in practice are indicated.
On Some Asymptotic Results for Multivariate Autoregressive Models with Estimated Parameters
Authors: Basu A. K. , Roy S. Sen
Published: July 2017

In this paper the asymptotic equivalence of the estimated predictor and the optimal predictor of k-dimensional pth order autoregressive process in the stable case with dependent error variables bas been shown. An expression for the mean square error of the estimated predictor has also been derived.
Construction of Grouped Arrays
Authors: Adhikary Basudeb , Das Premadhis
Published: July 2017

Grouped arrays were introduced in Adhikary and Das (1986 a). Some constructional methods have been considered here.
A Sequential Inventory Model with a Finite Number OE Periods When Supply is a Non-Negative Random Variable
Authors: Pal Manisha
Published: July 2017

A sequential inventory model with a finite number of periods bas been studied when the supply received against an order during a period is a non-negativo: random variable with mean equal to the order quantity,
Circular Systematic Sampling with Varying Probabilities
Authors: Chaudhuri Arijit , Adhikary Arun Kumar
Published: July 2017

Certain conditions connecting the population size, sample size and the sampling interval in circular systematic sampling with equal probabilities are known. We present here a simple “condition” connecting the sample size, size-measures and the sampling interval in pps circular systematic sampling. The condition is important in noting limitations on sample-sizes when a sampling interval is pre-assigned.
On Preliminary Test Isotonic M-Estimation of Multivariate Location Parameters
Authors: Karmous Azza R . , Sen Pranab K.
Published: July 2017

Isotonic M-estimation of location parameters in the multivariate simple location model is considered under an orthant restriction on the parameters. The union-intersection principle and theory of M-estimation of location are incorporated in the formulation of some robust preliminary test and the derived estimator is studied under the null hypothesis as well as a sequence of local alternatives.
Some Remarks on Kolmogorov's Strong Law in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Godbole Anant P.
Published: July 2017

We consider a sequence [Formula: see text] of independent Hilbert-space valued random variables and extend the Hoffmann-Jorgensen and Pisier Strong Law of Large Numbers (SLLN) in a way similiar to Teicher's extension of the classical Kolmogorov SLLN.
Some Generalized Central Limit Theorems for Weighted Sums with Infinite Variance
Authors: Adler André , Rosalsky Andrew
Published: July 2017

For i.i.d. random variables { Y, Yn, n⩾ 1} with EY2=∞ and nonzero constants { an, n⩾1}, sufficient and, separately, necessary conditions are given for { an Yn, n⩾1} to obey a generalized central limit theorem [Formula: see text] for suitable constants { An, n⩾1} and { Bn > 0, n⩾1}. The norming constants { Bn, n⩾1} are defined using the sequence [Formula: see text] and the distribution of Y. Moreover, it is shown that if p{| Y|> y} is regularly varying with exponent-2, then the centering constants may be taken to be [Formula: see text]. A famous result of Feller (1935), Khintchine (1935), and Lévy (1935) is obtained in the special case an ≡ 1.
Almost Sure Limit Set of the Vector Sequence of Partial Sums and Delayed Sums
Authors: Vasudeva R. , Divanjii G.
Published: July 2017

Let { xn, n ⩾ 1} be a sequence of positive valued stable andon variables with exponent [Formula: see text] where an is non-decreasing sequence of positive integers. Write [Formula: see text] In this paper we obtain the almost sure limit set of the sequence (ξ n) under certain conditions on an.
An Inventory Model for Deteriorating Items when Demand is Random
Authors: Pal Manisha
Published: July 2017

The paper studies an inventory model for items with exponential life, when demand for the item is made one at a time. The time between any two demands is assumed to be a continuous random variable with some general density function f( x). Assuming instantaneous replenishment on ordering, the model has been solved to obtain the optimal ordering quantity which minimises the total expected cost per unit time.
A Note on the Centering Constants in the Adler-Rosalsky Central Limit Theorem
Authors: Adler André , Rosalsky Andrew
Published: July 2017

For nonzero constants { an, n ⩾1} and i.i.d. random variables { Y, Yn n⩾1} with EY2 = ∞ and [Formula: see text] Adler and Rosalsky (1989) proved a generalzed central limit theorem [Formula: see text] are suitable numerical sequences. In addition, Adler and Rosalsky(l989) showed that the centering constants { An, n⩾1} can be taken to be [Formula: see text] if the condition [Formula: see text] is replaced by the stronger condition that p{ | Y | > y} is regularly varying with exponent - 2. In this note, it is shown that the generalized central limit theorem does indeed hold with [Formula: see text] without any strengthening of the condition [Formula: see text].
Analysis of YOUDEN Square with a Missing Column
Authors: Mehta B.D. , Puri P. D.
Published: July 2017

The idea of analsis of Balanced Incomplete Block (BIB) design of Puri (1984) nas been extended to row-coiumn designs eliminating two way heterogeneity and analysis of Youden Square with a missing column has been provided. It is shown that such designs are PEB row-column designs with three efficiency classes. The sets of basic contrasts and their corresponding losses have been provided.
A Note on Dispersive Ordering of Record Values
Authors: Kochar Subhash C.
Published: July 2017

It is proved that the successive record values from a DFR distribution are more dispersed. Because of the connection between record values and the occurrence times of a nonhomogeneous Poisson processes (NHPP) it proves that when the intensity function of an NHPP is nonincreasina, the successive occurrence times are more dispersed.
A Bivariate Exponential Model with Covariates in Competing Risk Data
Authors: Wada Cicilia Yuko , Sen Pranab Kumar , Shimakura Silvia Emiko
Published: July 2017

Sarkar's bivariate exponential distribution is incorporated in a competing risk model with two causes of failure. In view of the nonidentifiability of the parameters of this distribution under competing risk, reparameterization is advocated and covariates are related to the reparameterized parameters through logistic and log­linear models. The restricted alternative hypothe,is is considered for the comparison of the survival distributions of the two causes of failure, the test statistic based on Roy's union­intersection principle is used and compared with the score test statistic. An application is also considered,
Asymptotic Confidence Intervals for the Optimal Cost in Newsboy Problem
Authors: Pal Manisha
Published: July 2017

This paper attempts to set approximate confidence limits for tlie expected cost resulting from an estimated optimal ordering policy in the newsboy problem, when the demand distribution is completely unknown. The asymptotic distribution of the estimated cost, the bootstrap and the bootstrap­ t procedures have been used for the purpose.
Unconditional Optimality of Conditional Tests in the Presence of Nuisance Parameters
Authors: Chattopadhyay Gaurangadeb
Published: July 2017

The results of Chatterjee and Chanopadhyay (1990) are extended here to the case where nuisance parameters are present. The extension involves the inclusion of the nuisance parameter alongwith the partial ancillary statistic in the loss functions. It is shown that the usual best conditional test is actually unconditionally optimum irrespective of any knowledge about the nuisance parameter. Some standard examples are considered where loss functions can be so chosen as to realise certain intuitively reasonable properties.
A Note on Main Effect Plans
Authors: Sharma M. K.
Published: July 2017

Method of construction of main effect plans (saturated and unsaturated) through BIB designs, using necessary and sufficient condition of proportional frequencies, is proposed. Using this condition, we obtain two new plans 216/18 and 225/27 not reported earlier. Utilising these plans, we have obtained two new asymmetrical orthogonal main effect plans.
Concomitants of Order Statistics from Gumbel's Bivariate Weibull Distribution
Authors: Begum Anjuman A. , Khan A. H.
Published: July 2017

The probability density function (pdf) of the rth, 1 ≤ r ≤ n and joint pdf of the rth and sth, 1 ≤ r < s ≤ n, concomitants of ordered statistics are derived for Gumbel's bivariate Weibull distribution and their single moments are obtained. Also their means and variances are tabulated.
A Stochastic Inventory Model with Quality-Dependent Demand
Authors: Naidu G. Mohan , Sarma K. V. S.
Published: July 2017

This paper deals with an inventory model in which the demand rate is influenced by the quality of the material received . The case considered is a situation in which the consumption rate is adjusted whenever the incoming material does not have the desired quality but still usable. This leads to uncertainity in the inventory cycle and may create unplanned shortages. The model takes into account differential prices of the material based on quality. The behaviour of the optimal order level and the optimum cost has been studied as a function of the probability with which good quality material can be received. Numerical illustrations are given in support of the theoretical results.
A Note on the Marcinkiewicz-Zygmund Strong Law
Authors: Bose Arup
Published: July 2017

We prove the Marcinkiewicz-Zygmund strong law in a general set up.
Bayesian Analysis of Binary Data Using Skewed Logit Models
Authors: Chen Ming-Hui , Dey Dipak K. , Shao Qi-Man
Published: July 2017

The logistic regression is one of the most widely used models for binary response data in medical and epidemiologic studies. However, in some applications, the overall fit can be improved significantly by the use of a noncanonical link and in particular by an asymmetric link. In this paper, we consider a skewed logit model for analyzing binary response data with presence of covariates. Using a Bayesian approach, we propose informative priors using historical data from a similar previous study. We use various Bayesian methods for model comparison and model adequacy. More specifically, we use conditional predictive ordinates (CPO) to develop the pseudo-Bayes factor and Bayesian standardized residuals. In addition, we propose Bayesian latent residuals for assessing choices of link functions. Data sets from a prostate cancer study are used to demonstrate the methodology as well as the role of informative priors in model comparison and model adequacy.
Sometimes Pool Testimation of a Scale Parameter Under Asymmetric Loss Function
Authors: Srivastava Rakesh , Tank Haresh B.
Published: July 2017

The present paper proposes a sometimes pool testimator of mean life of Negative exponential distribution under asymmetric loss function, when it is assumed that both the guarantees are known. We may have in addition to the current sample (when the mean life is designated by θ1), another sample collected some time back, when the mean life might have been θ2 . It is suspected that the average life may change. Here a sometimes pool estimator of θ1 is proposed on the basis ofpreliminary testing. The risk properties of this estimator have been studied under asymmetric loss function and it is claimed that the proposed estimator dominates the never pool estimator (in terms of risk) in certain range of life ratio.
Characterization of Half-Normal Distribution Based on Linear Combinations of Order Statistics
Authors: Thomas P. Yageen , Sreekumar N.V.
Published: July 2017

In this paper two linear combinations of order statistics of two independent and identically distributed variables have been used to characterize the half-normal distribution.
DNA Microarray Data a Major Challenge
Authors: Banerjee Tathagata
Published: July 2017

DNA microarray technologies now make it possible to measure the expression levels of thousands of genes simultaneously during cellular differentiation over time or different cell lines. A major challenge now is to understand and explore the patterns in this massive data sets. In this article, first we give a brief description of the array technology and examine, why it is considered to be so important in post genome sequencing era. Then we review various clustering methods that have been recently used to explore the gene expression data.
On Deletion Residuals
Authors: Imon A.H.M. Rahamatullah
Published: July 2017

Residuals based on case deletion has been drawn a great deal of attention in recent years. The prime objective of these residuals is the identification of outliers in linear regression. In this paper we investigate their performances as substitutes of the true randQm disturbances and compare them with the traditionally used least squares residuals. Some distributional properties like moments, coefficients of skewness and kurtosis of deletion residuals are studied and their usefulness in tests for Normality is investigated.
A Note on an Optimal Tolerance Region for the Class of Multivariate Elliptically Contoured Location-Scale Model
Authors: Khan Shahjahan
Published: July 2017

This note uses the prediction distribution offuture response of a class of multivariate elliptic location-scale models to obtain optimal β-expectation tolerance regions for a single future response based on F-distribution and a set of future responses based on a generalized beta distribution.
A Study of Transmission Dynamics of VIVAX and Falciparum Malaria in an Endemic Area in Kolkata
Authors: Hati A.K . , Chaudhuri P. , Purkayastha S. , Mitra N.K. , Mondal B. , Sengupta S. , Mukherjee H. , Mukhopadhyay A.K.
Published: July 2017

The nature and the extent of transmission dynamics of vivax and falciparum malaria in Burrabazar area, which is known to be one of the most endemic areas in Kolkata, have been studied longitudinally through different seasons during 1997-2001. A significant difference in the seasonal variation of endemicity of the vivax and the falciparum malaria is evident throughout the years. This statistical finding is interesting in view of the fact that the transmission of both Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum parasites is achieved through the same mosquito Anopheles stephensi in recent times in Kolkata. In this article, we carry out a detailed statistical analysis of monthly numbers of vivax and falciparum cases detected in a leading pathological laboratory located in Burrabazar area during the five year period. We also analyze monthly figures of gametocyte carriers among malaria patients detected in the laboratory. The objective here is to make some attempts to determine possible reasons behind the apparent difference in the seasonal variations in the occurrence of the two types of malaria cases.
Estimation in an Exponential Distribution with Common Location and Scale Parameters
Authors: Ali M. Masoom , Woo Jungsoo
Published: July 2017

We consider several point estimators including the jackknife estimator for the estimation of the common location and scale parameters and the right tail probability in an exponential distribution . Several interval estimators of the common location and scale parameters arc also obtained.
An Alternative Randomized Response Technique Using Inverse Sampling
Authors: Singh Housila P. , Mathur Nidhi
Published: July 2017

This paper proposes several upper bounds of the variance of the estimator [Formula: see text] (say) suggested by Mangat and Singh (1990) making use of an inverse binomial randomized response (IBRR) procedure.
Forecasting Inflation Rate by Star Model: An Indian Experience
Authors: Samanta G.P.
Published: July 2017

In this empirical study, an attempt has been made to model non-linear dynamics of inflation rate in India through Smooth Transition ⁄ Threshold Auto-Regression (STAR). Inflation is measured based on weekly data on Wholesale Price Index (WPI) fur a period of seven years from the week ended April 2, 1994 to the week ended March 31, 2001. The log(WPI) series is detected to be a Difference-Stationary process, indicating that the series is non-stationary but its first-order difference is stationary. The generating process of the transformed-stationary series is identified to be non-linear. Six variants of STAR model are estimated for transformed-stationary series and are used to forecast WPI and annual inflation rate. Empirical assessment of out-of-sample forecast errors eveals that estimated STAR models perform reasonably well in generating short-run forecasts of both the variables.
On the Product and Ratio of t and Logistic Random Variables
Authors: Nadarajah Saralees , Ali M. Masoom
Published: July 2017

The distributions of the product | XY | and the ratio | X/Y | are derived when X and Y are Student's t and logistic random variables distributed independently of each other.
A Sequential Inventory Model for Items Subject to Random Price Fluctuations
Authors: Pal Manisha , Dutta Suddha Sankar
Published: July 2017

The paper considers inventory of commodities which show fluctuations in price over time. A sequential model with a finite number of periods of equal length has been considered and optimal policy for procurement in different periods is obtained assuming future prices and demands to be random variables with known or predictable density functions.
Histophysiological Appraisal of Ovarian Activity in an Indian Major Carp in Relation to Climatological Variables : A Data Based Approach
Authors: Mukhopadhyay I. , Chatterjee A. , Maitra S. K. , Dey R.
Published: July 2017

The reproductive events in an annual cycle in different vertebrates including fish are known to be regulated by exogenous and⁄or endogenous factors. Taking a cue from the environment that undergoes changes regularly and reliably around the year, most animals use them for prediction of seasonal changes and programme their gonadal development and breeding activities in an annual cycle. Information regarding the changes in external environment is transduced to gonads through the pineal organ, which synchronises the various biochemical, hormonal, physiological and behavioural rhythms of the body. However, existing knowledge on the role of environmental factors in the regulation of fish reproduction is mostly based on the data collected from temperate zones, and such information on any fish in the low and mid­latitudes is severely poignant. Accordingly, an attempt has been made in the present communication to demonstrate month­wise variations in various histological and⁄or biochemical indices of activity of ovary and pineal complex in a hitherto unstudied free­living Indian major carp Catla catla and to draw possible relationship between the activities of these organs and different climatological variables. Various exploratory data analytic techniques have been used to give meaningful answers to some well posed problems.
Donald Trump and the Legacy of Bacon’s Rebellion
Authors: Tatum Dale Craig
Published: July 2017

Donald Trump’s victory in the 2016 presidential election was the biggest upset in American history. Trump propelled himself to victory by running a racist campaign that targeted the White working-class voters by assuring them that he would be their agent and would redeem the country on behalf their shared Whiteness by deporting Mexican immigrants, banning Muslims, and stopping and frisking African Americans. The racial wedge that Trump used was the result of the enduring legacy of Bacon’s Rebellion in the United States.
Disability and Activity-related Emotion in Later Life: Are Effects Buffered by Intimate Relationship Support and Strain?
Authors: Carr Deborah , Cornman Jennifer C. , Freedman Vicki A.
Published: July 2017

We use daily diary data from the Disability and Use of Time supplement to the 2013 Panel Study of Income Dynamics ( n = 1,162) to evaluate (1) the extent to which marital/partner support and strain moderate the effects of disability on five activity-related emotions (happiness, calm, sadness, frustration, worry) and overall negative and positive emotion among older married, cohabiting, and dating persons and (2) whether such patterns differ significantly by gender. Marital support buffers against negative emotions and increases feelings of calm among severely impaired women. By contrast, support intensifies negative emotions and decreases feelings of calm among severely impaired men. Relationship strain also intensifies the effect of severe impairment on men’s frustration, sadness, worry, and negative mood but has negligible effects on the negative emotions of men with low impairment and women. Frequent support and criticism may threaten highly impaired older men’s sense of autonomy and emotional well-being.
‘Natural’ and ‘Unnatural’ medical deaths and coronial law: A UK and international review of the medical literature on natural and unnatural death and how it applies to medical death certification and reporting deaths to coroners
Authors: Harris Andrew
Published: July 2017

In the United Kingdom, when people die, either a doctor writes an acceptable natural cause of death medical certificate, or a coroner (fiscal in Scotland) investigates the case, usually with an autopsy. An inquest may or may not follow. The concept of ‘natural or unnatural cause’ death is not internationally standardized. This article reviews scientific evidence as to what is a natural death or unnatural death and how that relates to the international classification of deaths. Whilst there is some consensus on the definition, its application in considering whether to report to the coroner is more difficult. Depictions of deaths in terminal care, medical emergencies and post-operative care highlight these difficulties. It secondly reviews to what extent natural and unnatural are criteria for notification of deaths in England and Wales and internationally. It concludes with consideration of how medical concepts of unnatural death relate in England and Wales to coroners’ legal concepts of what is unnatural. Deaths that appear natural to clinicians and pathologists may be legally unnatural and vice versa. It is argued that the natural/unnatural dichotomy is not a good criterion for reporting deaths under medical care to coroners, but the notification of a medical cause of death, using the International Classification of Disease Codes and the medical professional view as to whether it is scientifically natural, is of great value to the coroner in deciding whether it is legally unnatural.
Some Aspects of the Mortality Pattern in the Sudan
Authors: Malik M. O. A.
Published: July 2017

Some aspects of the mortality pattern in the Sudan arc presented. As compared with developed countries there is a much higher infant mortality rate and a much shorter life expectancy. There are more than twice as many deaths amongst males as amongst females. Infectious and parasitic diseases still dominate the mortality list; by contrast ischaemic heart disease and malignancy tail behind in this respect. Road accidents do not yet pose a major public health problem but are on the increase. Suicide is rare. Homicide still lacks professionalism and premeditation. In general, the mortality picture reflects both the socio-economic life of the community and the standard of medical services. As the former becomes more advanced and complex and the latter improves, the mortality pattern will undoubtedly change accordingly. The shortcomings in the collection of data in this survey are stressed.
Saline Emetics and Hypernatraemia: Report on 2 Fatalities
Authors: Goodbody R. A. , Middleton J. E. , Gamlen T. R.
Published: July 2017

Two cases are reported in which saline emetics given for suspected drug overdosage resulted in pulmonary aspiration, hypernatraemia and a fatal encephalopathy. They illustrate the potential hazards of this procedure which should be used with caution in the home and hospital. The indiscriminate use of uncontrolled solutions should cease.
Rape—A Comparison of Group Offences and Lone Assaults
Authors: Wright Richard , West D. J.
Published: July 2017

Using information obtained from police files, the characteristics of group rapes were compared to those of rapes involving a solitary attacker. A number of important differences emerged from which it was concluded that, whereas some assaults by individual offenders may reflect personal propensities or pathology, group rapes originate in the dynamics of youthful gangs.
Social Control of Deviants in Six Counties
Authors: Soothill K. L. , Adserballe H. , Bernheim J. , Dasananjali T. , Harding T. W. , Ribeiro R. Pinto , Reinhold F. , Soueif M. I.
Published: July 2017

Descriptive information on the social control network for deviants in 6 countries with diverse social, economic and cultural backgrounds has been collected and compared. In each country it was possible to identify a sequence by which deviant behaviour is controlled and managed, consisting of 5 stages: discovery, official screening, disposal, release and after-care. It was also possible to make a clear distinction between the mental health systems and the criminal justice systems in each country. Differences were apparent in the extent of community involvement in the discovery stage and in the role of the primary level of health services. In some instances, differences were also apparent between rural and urban areas and between the way in which rich and poor people were handled. In all countries community after-care services are insufficient, particularly for offenders released from the prison system.

This report is based on the first phase of a WHO collaborative study. It forms the basis for further work currently in progress which includes: (a) a review of laws to identify situations in which dangerousness is used as a criterion; (b) a study of consecutive cases of patients admitted against their will to mental hospitals and of individuals on whom the courts request psychiatric reports; and (c) a study of the reliability and reasons for dangerousness assessment made by various professional groups and based on a standard set of case histories.
Trace Element Deficiency and Cot Deaths
Authors: Raie R. M. , Smith H.
Published: July 2017

The level of 10 trace elements (As, Br, Co, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mg, Mn, Se, Zn) in infant tissues (5 cot deaths, 4 other causes) are presented. These levels are compared with the normal adult levels for the same area or with the levels presented in the literature. The concentrations of 5 trace elements (As, Cu, Hg, Mn, Se) in human milk and 4 brands of artificial milks are also given and the intake of these trace elements from human and artificial milk for infants up to the age of 6 months is calculated. It is concluded that some artificial milks contain less of some essential trace elements (e.g. Cu and Se) and are richer in toxic trace elements (e.g. Hg and As). The suggestion of deficiency of the reported trace elements as a cause of cot deaths is rejected.
Curiosum Eroticum—A Case of Fatal Electrocution during Auto-Erotic Practice
Authors: Sivaloganathan S.
Published: July 2017

A fatal case of accidental electrocution occurring during auto-erotic experimentation with electricity is described and the dermal histological features of electrical injury emphasized.
Psychiatric Referrals from Court
Authors: Baird J. A.
Published: July 2017

A group of 57 men referred by the procurator fiscal* for psychiatric assessment were compared with a control group of 57 men seen at a psychiatric outpatient clinic. The groups were found to be similar when compared by age and marital status and within each group there was a wide range of psychiatric problems, several of which were recorded with similar frequency in both groups. Psychotic illness was uncommon in both groups.

In general, the only clear distinguishing feature between individuals in the 2 groups was the source of referral and the implication of this; namely that all fiscal cases had been charged with a criminal offence. The response to treatment amongst those in the control group who were seen on more than one occasion was encouraging, while only one fiscal referral was seen again by the doctor to whom he was initially referred.

It is concluded that amongst court referrals there are treatment needs which are not being met as fully as they might be and the reasons for this, together with some possible solutions, are discussed
The Medical Recommendation for Psychiatric Remands into Prison—The Hong Kong Scene
Authors: Lau Bernard W. K.
Published: July 2017

A review is presented of all the remand cases who were referred from the courts to the psychiatric staff of the Psychiatric Observation Unit in the Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre, Prisons Department, Hong Kong Government. Altogether 607 defendants were assessed during the 24-month period and reports were furnished which indicated the psychiatric diagnosis, medical recommendation and fitness to plead of each case.

It is noted that over half of the remands were not mentally disordered and a psychiatric diagnosis was possible in less than half of the sample. Most of the cases belonged to the younger age group, namely 19–39, which is compatible with the finding of schizophrenia in the majority of the mentally ill remands. A considerable number of them had a history of previous psychiatric contact. The nature of the offences varied and they involved those against the person, the property and the public order. In comparison, the schizophrenics committing offences against the person of a non-sexual nature formed the largest sub-group. On the whole, the schizophrenics were most frequently remanded for psychiatric examination, most likely to be recommended for a medical disposal and almost certainly allowed to benefit from the treatment proposed. Factors associated with positive or negative as well as accepted or rejected recommendation were discussed. Special consideration was given to some of the problems concerning the treatment orders which are peculiar to Hong Kong.
Head Injury—Organic and Psychogenic Issues in Compensation Claims
Authors: Weller Malcolm P. I.
Published: July 2017

Numerous complaints of a characteristic type often follow head injury, and plaintiffs have to convince the court that these complaints represent a genuine disability, and do not emanate from expectations of compensation. There are arguments for an organic basis to many complaints; however, these are subtle and technically complex creating difficulties in pursuing a successful claim in law. The situation is reviewed and the conclusion is drawn that complaints are often justified on the basis of organic pathology, and that an unduly dismissive attitude is probably adopted towards the psychiatric sequelae of head injury.
Homicide in Singapore
Authors: Kua EE Heok , Yuan AH Foo , Ang AH Ling
Published: July 2017

In this study of homicide in Singapore, case records were examined of 75 accused (72 men and 3 women), 8 (10.6 per cent) of whom showed evidence of mental abnormality. The majority of the normal accused were young, between 15–24 years, compared with most of the abnormal accused who were between 25–34 years. Alcohol intoxication was noted in 24 per cent of cases and EEG abnormality in one case. The most popular weapon used was a sharp instrument and there was only one death from gunshot wounds. Most of the victims of the normal accused were strangers (78 per cent) but 6 out of the 10 victims of the abnormal accused were relatives, friends or neighbours.
At What Blood Levels Does Alcohol Kill?
Authors: Johnson H. R. M.
Published: July 2017

A retrospective survey was carried out of all cases where death had resulted from the complications of excessive alcohol consumption in order to determine what constituted a lethal level of alcohol intake. The cases fell into two groups, one where there was an element of asphyxia which had complicated the effects of alcohol and led to death and those where death was entirely due to uncomplicated alcohol poisoning. It is suggested that death can occur from uncomplicated alcohol poisoning where there is a post-mortem blood alcohol level above 250 milligrams per 100 millilitres, but that where there are asphyxial complications then these may lead to death with blood alcohol levels below that figure at autopsy
Anaesthetic and Medico-Legal Problems in Patients Intoxicated by Alcohol
Authors: Abeloos J. , Rolly G. , Timperman J. , Watson A. A.
Published: July 2017

This article, based upon a case report, proposes a brief survey of the anaesthetic problems encountered in patients acutely intoxicated by ethyl alcohol. During the entire period of an eventual surgical involvement, prolonged intensive care is necessary to prevent complications as the Mendelson's syndrome, respiratory depression and delirium tremens. A practical approach is proposed for the anaesthetic management of such patients.
Resuscitation Artefact
Authors: Leadbeatter Stephen , Knight Bernard
Published: July 2017

This article provides a selective review of the literature concerning pathological lesions attributed to resuscitation and considers their medico-legal implications. Illustrative cases of interpretational problems are cited. The importance of the pathologist's awareness prior to autopsy of an attempt at, and the nature of, resuscitation is emphasized.
Myocardial Degeneration in Chronic Solvent Abuse
Authors: Claydon Susan M.
Published: July 2017

Chronic solvent abuse is leading to increasing reports of death from cardiac related causes. This case involves a 21-year-old man who died of acute heart failure. Histological examination of his heart showed extensive chronic damage of the myocardium. He had regularly and frequently abused solvents for five years.
New Provisions for Mentally Disordered Offenders: The Use of Sections 35, 36 and 38 in Two Regional Secure Units
Authors: Munro M. A. , Fraser K. A.
Published: July 2017

Data from all 37 admissions under Sections 35, 36 and 38 to two regional Secure Units for the thirty months commencing 1 October 1984 were collected from case records. Some characteristics of these patients were compared with all other admissions and it was found that although the sex ratio is the same in the two groups, the patients admitted on the sections under examination were younger. Details of diagnosis and eventual outcome are presented, and these findings are discussed along with conclusions about the usefulness of these new provisions, and the way in which they are being utilized.
The Effect of Management Regime on Disruptive Behaviour: An Analysis within the British Prison System
Authors: Davies W. , Burgess P. W.
Published: July 2017

Discipline reports filed in a local prison over a seven-year period were analysed. During this time four different governors were in office, and the numbers of reports filed during each governors' term were compared. There proved to be a significant difference in numbers of reports filed during each governor's term, suggesting that the management regime instituted by the governor of a local prison may have a strong effect upon either the incidence of disruptive behaviour, its recording, or both. One of the governors in this study, under whom discipline reporting frequency was low, had worked at another prison which had been the subject of the Prescott (1976) report. At that time, this governor had been singled out for mention as the governor who had presided over an apparently peaceful prison as measured by discipline reports, supporting the view that a particular governor's management style may be important in influencing levels of disruptive behaviour in the prison situation.
Suicide in Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: Hettiarachchi J. , Kodithuwakku G. C. S. , Chandrasiri N.
Published: July 2017

The pattern of suicide in a southern district of Sri Lanka was studied retrospectively over a period of one year. The mortality by suicide of 25/100,000 population is higher than that in the UK and other Western European countries. The largest number of suicides occurred in the age group 15–24 years. Poisoning was the preferred method of suicide in over 80% of subjects. The commonest agent used was a weedkiller, paraquat. Free availability of such potent toxic substances can culminate in a suicidal act when in fact a large number of the victims had no intention of committing suicide. There is a place for restriction of the sale of agrochemicals without jeopardizing their availability to farmers.
Secure Units: Why They are Needed
Authors: Bullard Henrietta , Bond Michael
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT: The Beauchamp ISU based at Central Hospital, Warwick, has admitted 105 patients over a six-year period, 14 of these on more than one occasion, which has accounted for 121 admissions with 109 discharges. The opening of a pre-discharge unit in 1985 resulted in a 50 per cent increase in the number of patients admitted to the ISU. The majority of patients were male and had a diagnosis of schizophrenia, and 30 per cent of patients were of non-European origin. The mean length of stay was six months.

The future role of secure units is discussed. There will be a need for the forensic psychiatric service to adapt to the changes resulting from the present government policy of community psychiatric care. The group of patients at present identified as requiring secure accommodation need a range of facilities and the number of patients requiring those facilities is likely to increase as psychiatric hospitals close. The special funding of the secure units must be maintained and any attempt to erode or to accept a lower level of funding must be resisted.
Compulsory Hospital Admissions: Dangerous Decisions?
Authors: Soothill K. , Kupituksa P. , MacMillan F.
Published: July 2017

The criterion of dangerousness as a justification for compulsory hospital admission remains pervasive in current British legislation. This study focuses on the actual use of the dangerousness criterion since the 1983 Mental Health Act. A consecutive series of 53 compulsory admissions to the Academic Unit, All Saints Hospital, Birmingham, England was studied. The investigation suggests that, despite the great debates on the dangerousness issue recently, there has been little, if any, shift in the way that psychiatrists use the concept of dangerousness in assessing persons for compulsory admissions. The results echo the earlier work of Bean (1980). Dangerousness is not the primary issue of concern in terms of compulsory admission. The present study suggests however that psychiatrists are not making dangerousness assessments in a stereotypical manner.
Medico-Legal Problems of Ischaemic Heart Disease and Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Al-Alousi L. M.
Published: July 2017

The medicolegal importance of ischaemic heart disease and myocardial infarction is summarized and discussed. Some theories of pathogenesis and aetiology of ischaemic heart disease, specially those which are more important and relevant to the medicolegal practice, are discussed.

Results of the study of 33 cases of coronary artery atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction at different stages of development are presented. The condition of the coronary arteries and the myocardium is examined on gross and microscopical levels. Pathological findings are correlated with the clinical data obtained from the case histories and the summaries of the necropsy requests.

No good correlation exists between the observed pathological changes and the clinical age of the infarction and, in most instances, the latter appears younger than the age estimated on the pathological ground alone. As far as the age of the infarction is concerned, most special histochemical staining methods are not preferable to the routine haematoxylin and eosin method. However, the former are efficient in demonstrating and confirming certain aspects of the infarction which cannot be ascertained by the latter method of staining.

Pathological alterations associated with myocardial infarction at successive ages are explained and various methods of estimating the time of the infarction are discussed. Thus, gross and microscopical appearances of the acute, organizing and healed myocardial infarction are illustrated by photographs and the forensic applications of these morphological changes are discussed.

Lastly, a rare case of an acute myocardial infarction associated with a heat stroke is presented and the medicolegal problems resulting from this case are discussed.
Correlates of Suicidal History in Male Prisoners
Authors: Griffiths A. W.
Published: July 2017

The relationship between suicide and previous attempt thereto is generally recognized. In this study of adult male prisoners, those with a history of attempted suicide were compared with age-matched controls in order to evaluate factors associated with suicidal behaviour. As well as confirming its relationship with certain other factors (notably mental illness and addiction) it was found that prisoners with many previous convictions were much more likely to have attempted suicide. It is suggested that conviction rate might be a useful addition to the measures already employed in assessing suicidal risk.