bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organization of the Environment for Teaching Children with ASD
Authors: Zagumennaya O.V. , Vasilyeva A.V. , Kisten V.V. , Petrova O.M.
Published: April 2018

A structured environment plays a critical role in the education of children with autism spectrum disorders. The experience of structuring of the class environment in the Federal Resource Center for the Organization of Comprehensive Support for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders is presented. The material is approbated in work with children who entered the first grade of the school. The Central Psychological-Medical Pedagogical Commission recommended the Adapted Basic Educational Program (version 8.3) for these children.
Forming of Self-consciousness and Professional Motivation in a Young People with Autism and Severe Developmental Disorders Who are Learning Professional Skills
Authors: Karpova N.A.
Published: April 2018

Paper presents comprehension of the process of professional skills learning in young people with severe complex developmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders. Unity of the process of self-consciousness development and formation of professional motivation is revealed through the mechanism of shifting the motive to the goal. Author shows the realization of this consolidated process in the conditions of a creative craft workshop, based on her work as a psychologist in the Center of social adaptation and professional training, Technological college № 21. The case from the work in a sewing and weaving workshop described.
Preparation for Independent Life of People with ASD and Other Developmental Disorders in The Autonomous Noncommercial Organization «Adain Lo» (ANO «Adain Lo»).
Authors: Ginsburg A.A. , Gitshabash M.E. , Ivanova Y.L.
Published: April 2018

The problems of preparation of children and adults with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities for independent life, modern ways of development of their independence are considered. The role of parents in this process and parent-specialist interaction are stressed. The techniques of tutor support, parents and other specialists are described. Presented techniques are realized in autonomous non-commercial organization «Adain Lo» (Saint-Petersburg) and aimed for maintenance of independent life, self-service, game, communication and education of people with special needs.
Cognitive Process Development in Primary School Age Children with Different Types of Ontogenesis. Course of correction.
Authors: Maksimenko M.Y. , Shal L.
Published: April 2018

The psychologists admit the frequent infantilism of the emotional and personal sphere in children of primary school age. Presented infantilism may occur in the form of difficulties in differentiating of emotional states and understanding the causes of one’s own actions and peers actions which may lead to problems in behavior and interpersonal relationships. Section 3 of the correctional course presents tasks aimed to the development and formation of an emotional and personal sphere in children of primary school age within the framework of the cognitive approach — a verbal and nonverbal understanding of emotions and emotional expression. Phenomenological approach to the study of the emotional sphere of the child is extremely heterogeneous and inaccurate, since in the emotional sphere there are many different aspects of emotions and emotional states are singled out, and therefore their differentiation is ambiguous.
Continuation. Вeginning in No 1 (54), 2017
Year Round. Method of Speech Development and Correction
Authors: Pavlova Y.B. , Khotyleva T.Y.
Published: April 2018

This methodological manual is created based on analysis of many years of experience of teachers working with children with developmental disorders. The manual is aimed at getting pre-school children or first graders with speech and communication difficulties leading to academic failure ready for school.
Organization of Psychological, Medical and Social Support for Children and Adolescents with ASD in Algeria: Methodological Basics and Techniques
Authors: Vlasova O.A.
Published: April 2018

Active work on the establishing of psychological, medical and social support for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders in the state of Algeria began two decades ago. The issues of infrastructure organization, staff training and choice of techniques for work with children and adolescents with autism are considered. The practice of the capital day hospital is described in detail, as well as the issues of specialists and parents education and training to help children with autism. The training of mothers of children with autism, the activity of co-therapists and the basics of the TEACCH program has made it possible to achieve notable successes in the development of the cognitive sphere of their children.
To be continued in the following issues
Ode to Physical Education, or Why Sports are Necessary in a Comprehensive Program for Children with Autism
Authors: Slepyan M.
Published: April 2018

It is difficult to find place among peers for children with autism spectrum disorders, so it is necessary to equip them for this with as many instruments as possible. Sport can be a support and a guide to the society for many children, because a good player is valued in any team, even if he is a bit strange and does not quite fit into the team. The co-founder, head of the Israeli Center for Correction of Autism and Learning Problems «SULAMOT Group» and the mother of an adolescent with autism is reflecting on the questions of the role of sport in habilitation and socialization of children with autism spectrum disorders.
ASSESSMENT OF BILIOSTATIC PROPERTIES OF MODERN TOPIC HEMOSTATIC MEANS USED IN HEPATIC SURGERY
Authors: Timoshenkova A V , Kuzmin M V , Katanov E S
Published: April 2018

Aim. To assess the biliostatic properties of modern topic hemostatic means and the developed glue composition for medical purpose, used in hepatic surgery in experiment. Materials and methods. The studies, aimed at assessment of the properties of local hemostatic means, were carried out on Wistar rats weighing 178 ± 10 g. The device for determination of leak proofness of hepatic stump with hydropression technique was used. Comparative estimation of elasticity and adhesive strength of hemostatic means, using tension testing machine “REM-10”, was fulfilled. Original polyurethane glue for medical purposes was developed and studied. Results. The glue compositions “Bioglue”, hemostatic sponge “Tachocomb” and original polyurethane composition for medical purposes with adhesive strength > 600 Pa (mm H2O) ( p < 0.05) possess the best adhesive properties. It was established on the basis of experimental data that the glue composition “Bioglue” and polyurethane glue composition have a high adhesive strength, elasticity and resistance to hydropression. Conclusions. 1. Glue compositions possess higher adhesion and endure higher level of pressure as compared with sponges and plates. Original polyurethane composition has maximum adhesive strength, elasticity and hydropression resistance. 2. After application of original polyurethane glue composition on resected liver (in experiment), it is completely lysed in 30-35 days.
ATYPICAL VARIANT OF ROLANDIC EPILEPSY (CLINICAL OBSERVATION)
Authors: Vasilyeva E S , Malov A G , Karakulova Yu V
Published: April 2018

The clinical and neuropsychological analysis of atypical variant of rolandic epilepsy, usually benign, is presented in the paper. The patient was examined in dynamics from the age of 7 to the age of 11. The peculiar features of this observation were the following: frequent pharmacoresistant focal seisures, cognitive impairments in the form of disorders of attention, memory and manual dyspraxia, as well as protracted “rolandic” complexes on EEG.
CURRENT VIEW ON PATHOGENETIC APPROACH IN SURGICAL TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH DIABETIC FOOT SYNDROME
Authors: Okroyan V P , Ibragimov T R , Galimov O V , Khanov V O
Published: April 2018

Aim. To improve the immediate and long-term results of diabetic foot syndrome treatment, using modern surgical techniques. Materials and methods. The results of treatment of 264 patients were analyzed. For these patients with purulo-necrotic affection of extremities against the background of diabetes mellitus, complex treatment, including the techniques of extremity revascularization as well as modern hydrocolloid bandage materials, depending on the stage of wound process, was used; different variants of foot unloading at the clinical and ambulatory stages were offered. The method of treatment of purulo-necrotic wounds against the background of diabetes mellitus, based on differentiated use of ozonotherapy combined with application of biomaterials for closing ulcerous defects, was developed and introduced by the authors. Results. The systemic approach and criteria for choosing surgical strategy of diabetic foot syndrome treatment were worked out and presented. The immediate and long-term results of using the introduced scheme of the management of patients were studied. Conclusions. The developed complex approach is aimed at preservation of the foot and supporting function of the lower extremity; its clinical use permits to decrease the percent of amputations and lethality, improving patients’ quality of life indices.
PROBLEM OF ENDOMETRIOSIS DIAGNOSIS WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF SYSTEMIC DISEASE
Authors: Padrul M M , Shirinkina E V , Makhmudova S E
Published: April 2018

Aim. To study the clinical cases of extragenital endometriosis, reveal the key moments of diagnosis and study the risk factors for the development of this disease. Materials and methods. The study was carried out on the basis of gynecological hospitals of Perm in 2000-2015. Retrospective analysis of case histories of 22 patients with extragenital endometriosis of different localization was performed. Prospective analysis by means of questionnaire survey of 20 patients, operated for extragenital endometriosis, was used to assess the quality of life, working ability, prognosis regarding recovery. Results. A mean age of the examined women was 35 ± 3.5 years. Genital endometriosis was diagnosed in 81.8 % of patients, burdened obstetric-gynecological anamnesis - in 86.3 %. The main patients’ complaints were the following: dysmenorrhea and hyperpolymenorrhea (90.9 %), sterility (77.3 %), pain syndrome, dysfunction and hemorrhagic discharges from the damaged organs, cyclically coinciding with menstrual cycle. All patients (100 %) underwent surgical treatment of different forms of extragenital endometriosis, and by the results of histological study of surgical material, stromal and epithelial endometrial cells were detected. Prospectively: prognosis regarding life and working ability was beneficial, as for recovery - doubtful in 55 % of cases, recurrences - 45 % both in previously damaged and other organs. Conclusions. The presented clinical cases demonstrate that endometriosis is an interdisciplinary problem, which needs complex approach to diagnosis and management. Thoroughly collected anamnesis, including obstetric and gynecological as well as questioning, performed by other specialists is required. Patients with the revealed extragenital forms of endometriosis should be treated together with obstetricians and gynecologists.
STUDY OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS PATHOGENESIS AS THE BASIS OF ITS TARGET THERAPY
Authors: Baidina T V , Kuklina E M , Selyanina N V , Trushnikova T N , Sursyakova N V , Danchenko I Yu , Arbuzova E E
Published: April 2018

Aim. To study the antigen-presenting ability of B-cells, class IV semaphorin Sema4D (CD100) and CD72 receptor expression in the immune system of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS); to study the interaction between the KIF1B gene polymorphisms and the variants of response to preparation, changing the course of multiple sclerosis in MS patients. Materials and methods. Patients with the established diagnosis of “Multiple sclerosis” by McDonald criteria 2010 with remitting type of the disease course were examined. Clinical method, psychometric testing, immune-enzyme analysis, immunologic method, PCR technique were used. Results. Among patients with MS, the antigen-presenting function of B-lymphocytes was changed, semaphorin Sema4D/CD100 expression level on T-lymphocyte membrane was elevated, CD72 receptor expression on B-lymphocyte membrane was decreased. The studied phenomena are associated with a number of clinical characteristics that permits to consider them to participate in the pathogenesis of this disease. Conclusions. Pathogenetic characteristics of multiple sclerosis are added by new data, which can be the targets for therapeutic strategies in the form of using anti-Sema4D- and anti-B-lymphocytic antibodies as immunomodulating therapy of MS.
ARTERIAL STIFFNESS IN YOUNG PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC GLOMERULONEPHRITIS
Authors: Khachatryan A V , Nekrutenko L N , Vasilets L M
Published: April 2018

Aim. To study the presence of the phenomenon of stiffness of the arterial vessels in young patients with chronic glomerulonephritis. Materials and methods. The parameters of malleolar-brachial index (while chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression) were studied in 47 young patients with chronic glomerulonephritis and 24 comparable by age healthy volunteers. Results. There was detected the elevation of malleolar-brachial index in young patients with chronic glomerulonephritis, when having stage 3-5 CKD. Conclusions. Malleolar-brachial index, as an index of arterial stiffness, grows with CKD progression, that is a marker of early aging of vessels and cardiovascular remodeling in young patients with chronic glomerulonephritis.
SIGNIFICANCE OF CONNECTIVE TISSUE DYSPLASIA IN DUODENAL ARTERIOMESENTERIAL COMPRESSION ORIGIN
Authors: Repin M V , Patlusova E S
Published: April 2018

Aim. To study the morphological changes in the duodenum in case of its arteriomesenterial compression and estimate their interaction with connective tissue dysplasia. Materials and methods. 70 patients (mean age 29.3 ± 2.6 years) with arteriomesenterial compression of the duodenum underwent morphological study of its wall and correlation analysis with histological changes in biopsy material of the skin. Results. Significant correlation of morphological indices of stromal-glandular changes in the duodenal mucosa with the signs of destruction and reorganization of connective tissue in histological preparations of the skin were established. Conclusions. Duodenal arteriomesenterial compression is a disease, conditioned by patient’s constitution. Its course is determined by peculiar features of connective tissue dysplasia. Morphological changes in duodenal wall confirm atrophy, the degree of manifestation of which corresponds to the stage of disease and is a reliable criterion for choosing rational therapeutic tactics.
HYGIENIC CHARACTERISTIC OF CONDITIONS FOR PATIENTS’ TREATMENT AT STOMATOLOGICAL HOSPITAL OF CLINICAL MULTIPROFILE MEDICAL CENTER AFTER RECONSTRUCTION
Authors: Koryukina I P , Barannikov V G , Kirichenko L V , Ryazanova E A , Mammayeva M G , Pozdeyeva O V
Published: April 2018

Aim. To fulfill the in-depth sanitary-and-hygienic assessment of the internal environment of stomatological hospital after its reconstruction. Materials and methods. Sanitary-and-hygienic assessment was fulfilled by means of modern devices, subjected to metrological check. Microclimate (temperature, relative humidity, air speed, temperature of guarding surfaces), aeroionization regime (light negative and positive air ions), natural and artificial light, noise load and electromagnetic radiation value were determined. The study was carried out during cold (January-February) and warm (June) periods of the year. Results. Hygienic characteristic of conditions for patients’ treatment at stomatological hospital showed the sanitary parameters to correspond to the existing standards. Conclusions. The reconstruction of stomatological hospital carried out permitted to improve the environmental parameters, contributing to effective treatment of patients.
METABOLIC ASPECTS OF ACUTE stage ISCHEMIC STROKE
Authors: Izhbuldina G I , Novikova L B , Timerbayeva D A , Sharipova E V , Murzabayeva R V
Published: April 2018

Aim. To study the influence of hyperglycemia on the course of ischemic stroke in its acute period. Materials and methods. 116 patients with primary ischemic stroke, associated with arterial hypertension, and with no diabetes mellitus in anamnesis were examined. Fasting blood glucose, glycolyzed hemoglobin, immunoreactive insulin and C-peptide levels were determined. Results. Raised levels of glycemia to 5.31 ± 0.68 mmol/l, C-peptide to 0.90 ± 0.31 nmol/l and decreased level of insulin to 9.38 ± 4.34 mcIU/ml were detected. C-peptide to insulin ratio values were reliably higher in patients with severe course of stroke (by 35.6 %, p < 0.05) and unfavorable outcome of disease (by 39.6 %, p < 0.05). Conclusions. Development of ischemic stroke is accompanied by high blood C-peptide levels against the background of normo-and-hypoinsulinemia, hyperglycemia. Manifestation of disorders is connected with severity and clinical outcome of this disease.
SPECIFIC PECULIAR FEATURES OF ACTIVITY IN MEDICAL PERSONNEL, RENDERING PEDIATRIC PALLIATIVE CARE
Authors: Podluzhnaya M Ya , Voronova E A , Rudakova E A , Smirnova K A , Podluzhnaya M A
Published: April 2018

Aim. To study the medicosocial characteristic of children with incurable diseases, peculiar features of their treatment and nursing, to single out specific character of personnel training on pediatric palliative care. Materials and methods. Medicosocial characteristic of children’s contingent with incurable diseases, included into the register of Perm Krai, was studied. The experience of work on pediatric palliative care over the period of 2014-2017 was summarized. Specific character of physicians’ and nurses’ training regarding their work in pediatric palliative service was singled out and described. Conclusions. Rendering of palliative care to children and development of pediatric palliative service requires joint efforts and close collaboration among specialists of different profiles not only in practical activity, but when training personnel as well.
EFFICACY OF USING VIRTUAL REALITY IN POST-STROKE UPPER LIMB PARESIS
Authors: Dolganov M V , Karpova M I
Published: April 2018

Aim. To estimate the efficacy of using training by means of virtual reality in restoration of the upper limb function in patients during the acute period of stroke. Materials and methods. 48 patients in the acute period of stroke (average time from the onset of stroke 4.5 ± 1.3 days, mean age 67 (45; 72.1) years were randomized into 2 groups: the main group (standard therapy + virtual reality) and the control (standard therapy alone). Patients of the main group underwent a course of virtual reality training, lasting for 15 minutes, twice a day for 10 days. The functional status before the onset of training course and after it was evaluated using Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scores (FMA), Motor Assessment Scale (MAS), Ashworth Scale, Modified Barthel Index Score (MBI), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), 9-Hole Peg Test, Rankin Scale, Function Independence Measure (FIM) and dynamometry. Results. When assessing FMA of “upper limb” ( p = 0.029), “wrist” ( p = 0.04), “hand speed” ( p = 0.02); MAS ( p = 0.042), 9-Hole Peg Test ( p = 0.028), paretic hand dynamometry ( p = 0.03) and FIM ( p = 0.045), patients of the main group demonstrated statistically significant improvement versus the control group. Conclusions. The results detected that inclusion of a short training course, using virtual reality, improves the upper limb function in patients during the acute period of stroke.
RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF EVENTS OF DEATH AT HOME AMONG PATIENTS UNDER FOLLOW-UP OBSERVATION
Authors: Sandakov Ya P
Published: April 2018

Aim. To study the peculiarities of asking for medical care by patients from among those dead at home, who had been under follow-up observation. Materials and methods. The data, received from ambulatory medical records of 100 dead at home patients with follow-up, were analyzed using the methods of descriptive and inductive statistics. Results. A mean age of death was 74.9 ± 13.4 years, men - 65.8 ± 14.1 years, women - 79.2 ± 10.9 years. Cardiovascular diseases were the cause of follow-up observation in 78 % of cases and the cause of death in 85 %; in 30 % of patients the disease was detected while carrying out prophylactic medical examination. A mean duration of disease by the moment of death was 13.0 ± 8.0 years, among pensioners 13.7 ± 8.5 years, in able-bodied persons 9.6 ± 4.3 years. A mean duration of follow-up observation was 9.2 ± 5.8 years. An average number of planned visits was 2.8 ± 0.89, but the number of real visits during the last year of follow-up observation was 2.4 ± 1.2. Disability was registered in 77.6 % of patients, concomitant diseases - in all patients. For the last year, exacerbations were recorded in 92 % of patients, emergency calls - in 80 %, hospitalization events - 52 %, including 55.8 % - urgent ones. Conclusions. The absence of significant difference regarding the duration of disease between pensioners and able-bodied patients (т = 0.16, р = 1.43) as well as the absence of correlation between the age and duration of disease (χ2 = 0.19, p = 0.2) indirectly prove the influence of duration of disease on its outcome, but not the age. Attendance, characterizing clinical loyalty to treatment, does not depend on age (χ2 = -0.19, р = 0.18), sex (т = 1.0, р = 0.32), way of detecting disease (f = 0.9, p = 0.4), class of main disease (f = 0.91, p = 0.44), duration of disease (χ2 = -0.13, р = 0.49), exacerbations (χ2 = -0.17, р = 0.24), concomitant diseases (χ2 = 0.006, р = 0.9). The number of emergency calls, hospitalizations, urgent hospitalizations does not depend on duration of follow-up observation, regularity and number of real visits to a doctor (p > 0.05) that indicates unsatisfactory quality of follow-up observation.
ANTIGLAUCOMA WORK IN PERM: PROBLEMS AND WAYS OF DECISION
Authors: Soloviyeva L I , Gavrilova T V , Sobyanin N A
Published: April 2018

Aim. To analyze the state of antiglaucoma work in Perm and determine the necessary organizational measures, permitting to improve early detection of glaucoma and quality of patients’ follow-up observation. Materials and methods. Retrospective analysis of reports of ophthalmologists from 15 treatment-and-prophylactic institutions of Perm and statistical reports of Medicosocial Examination Bureau for 7 years (2010-2016) was carried out. Results. Morbidity index in Perm during 2010-2016 does not reveal an evident dynamics and ranges 0.69 to 0.7 per 1000 of the adult population. Prevalence of glaucoma is 10.95-11.8 per 1000 of the adult population. The share of patients with first-diagnosed degree I-II glaucomas ranged from 81.1 % to 86.4 %. Conclusions. The centralized system of rendering qualified medical care permits to develop and observe specialized standards of antiglaucoma activity, to introduce the recent scientific designs, to train medical staff for management of patients.
DYNAMICS OF LIFE QUALITY, ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION SYMPTOMS AMONG PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC INSOMNIA IN COMPLEX SANATORIUM-AND-HEALTH RESORT TREATMENT WITH INCLUSION OF TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETOTHERAPY
Authors: Goryaev A G
Published: April 2018

Aim. To evaluate the dynamics of the quality of life, symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with chronic insomnia against the background of complex sanatorium-and-health resort treatment with inclusion of transcranial magnetotherapy (TCMT). Materials and methods. 63 patients (mean age 53.1 ± 1.4 years) with verified diagnosis of chronic insomnia were examined. The patients were divided into 2 randomized groups by means of randomized sampling technique: 33 patients of the main group were administered a basic sanatorium complex including nitric-siliceous baths with low content of radon, massage of head and collar zone, terrencure, cognitive-behavioral therapy, group psychotherapy, transcerebral magnetotheprapy; 30 patients of the comparison group had the same therapy, but no TCMT. Results. When analyzing the initial data before treatment, high levels of subclinical and clinically manifested anxiety and depression were revealed in all patients with insomnia. When comparing subjective complaints before and after treatment within both groups, a reliable dynamics in anxiety and depression assessment was detected. In the main group with TCMT used, the results of treatment were significantly better, than in the comparison group. In the comparison group, positive reliable dynamics of the quality of life indices was also noted, but it was statistically less significant by all scales, than in the main group. Conclusions. Transcranial magnetotherapy, included into complex of sanatorium-and-health resort treatment of chronic insomnia patients, permits to reduce subjective clinical symptoms of anxiety and depression and improve patients’ quality of life, mostly of psychological component of their health status.
STUDY OF INFLUENCE OF BLOOD THIAZOLINE AMMONIUM 4-CHLOROPHENYL-2-HYDROXY-4-OXO-2-BUTENOATE CONCENTRATION ON ANTICOAGULANT EFFECT UPON SUBCUTANEOUS ADMINISTRATION
Authors: Starkova A V , Karpenko Yu N , Syropyatov B Ya , Sobin F V , Pulina N A
Published: April 2018

Aim. To study the effect of blood thiazoline ammonium 4-chlorophenyl-2-hydroxy-4-oxo-2-butenoate content on the manifestation of anticoagulant effect upon subcutaneous administration to rabbits. Materials and methods. The studies were fulfilled on outbred rabbits. The substance was administered subcutaneously in the dose of 35 mg/kg. The time of blood coagulation was determined using coagulometer “Minilab 701”, and blood concentration - by means of liquid micro-column chromatograph “Milichrom A-02”. Results. The obtained results prove that maximum concentration of the compound in blood and maximum anticoagulant effect is reached in 30 minutes after subcutaneous administration. The substance anticoagulant effect lasted for 120 minutes after its administration. At present, the compound concentration in blood is equal to 519.8 ± 145.41 ng/ml. Conclusions. The studied compound, when administered subcutaneously, is quickly absorbed and begins to render an anticoagulant effect. Efficacy of action of this compound depends on its blood concentration.
QUANTITATIVE DETERMINATION OF FLAVONOIDS IN LAVATERA THURINGIACA L., GROWING IN ALTAI KRAI TERRITORY
Authors: Fedoseeva L M , Myznikova O A
Published: April 2018

Aim. To determine the quantitative content of flavonoids in Lavatera thuringiaca L., the grass, growing in Altai Krai. Materials and methods. The object of the study: Lavatera thuringiaca L. grass, stored at different phases of vegetation in Altai Krai territory. Quantitative determination of flavonoids in the investigated raw material was fulfilled, using differential spectrophotometry method. Results. Maximum accumulation of flavonoids in Lavatera thuringiaca L. grass was found to occur in the period of budding (1.14 %) and blossoming (1.02 %). The sum of flavonoids in terms of rutin, extracted with 70 % ethanol from raw material, stored in different regions, is changed insignificantly and makes 1.00-1.23 %. Conclusions. The results of this work testify expediency of studying Lavatera thuringiaca L. as a source of flavonoids.
Treating daytime blindness with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: a case report
Authors: ALTUNBAŞ Fatma Dilara
Published: April 2018

Medically unexplained physical symptoms
(MUPS) is physical complaints which are difficult to diagnose by the medical
analysis. According to studies, traumatic life events, and adverse childhood
experiences underlie the occurrence of MUPS. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing
(EMDR) is a therapy that is applied to treat post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD), and recently it is known that EMDR can be used in the treatment
protocol of other mental health problems. This case report demonstrates
efficaciousness of EMDR therapy on PTSD-related daytime blindness
(hemeralopia).
The relationship between psychopathology, psychosocial adjustment, social support and quality of life in multiple sclerosis
Authors: KOTAN Vahap Ozan , KOTAN Zeynep , AYDIN Birgül , TAŞKAPILIOĞLU Özlem , ALKAN Berna , ÖZKAYA Güven , SARANDÖL Aslı , TURAN Ömer Faruk , Kırlı Selçuk
Published: April 2018

Objectives: Multiple
Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease which affects physical,psychological and
social functioning of patients. In this study we aim to indicate psychiatric
comorbidity, some psychosocial factors and their associations with quality of
life in patients with MS. Methods: A total of 227 patients
underwent psychiatric examination and the following scales were applied:
Socio-demographic data form, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS),
Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQOL-54), Psychosocial Adjustment to
Illness Scale-Self report (PAIS-SR) and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived
Social Support (MSPSS). Results: Among 227 patients with MS,
67.8% (n = 154) had psychiatric diagnosis; 24.2% (n = 55) had depression,19.8%
(n = 45) had adjustment disorder, 14.9% (n = 34) had anxiety disorder, 7.1%
(n=16) had dysthymic disorder and 1.8% (n = 4) had bipolar disorder. Patients
with a psychiatric diagnosis had lower scores in role limitations due to
emotional problems, emotional well-being, health perceptions, social function,
cognitive function, health distress and mental health composite of MSQOL-54.
PAIS-SR and MSPSS scores were significantly lower in MS patients with a
psychiatric diagnosis. PAIS-SR scores were negatively
correlated with role limitations-emotional, emotional well-being, social
function, sexual function, satisfaction with sexual function, physical health
composite and mental health composite scores of MSQOL-54. MSPSS total score was
positively correlated with emotional well-being score of MSQOL-54. Conclusions: In MS patients, there is a high prevalence of psychopathology and it is
associated with quality of life, perceived social support and psychosocial
adjustment of the patients. Quality of life is reduced especially in emotional
and mental aspects in patients with a psychiatric diagnosis. Diagnosis and
treatment of psychopathology in MS patients seems crucial to decrease disease
burden.
TAA Properly Defined
Authors: Brown Robert A.
Published: April 2018

Tactical Asset Allocation (TAA) has generally been misspecified, oversold, and subsequently underdelivered. Nevertheless, TAA offers a series of highly attractive investment attributes when adviser/client expectations are properly set and the strategy is appropriately positioned as a portion of a comprehensive investor solution. This article’s objective is three-fold. First, to identify the attractive investment attributes of TAA relative to passive buy & hold. Second, to quantify or parameterize these relative advantages so that users can better assess the relevance of TAA for their own specific needs. Third, this article’s last objective is to describe the give-ups or tradeoffs associated with TAA, so that it can be properly understood, communicated, and therefore applied to the correct portion of an investor’s aggregate portfolio.
Can Capital Structure Affect the Financial Performance of Banks in Turkey?
Authors: Tuncay Merve
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study is to investigate the determinants of banks’ financial performance in terms of the capital structure. Annual financial statements of 11 banks traded in Borsa Istanbul are employed for the period of 2006-2016. Return on assets, return on equity and earnings per share are chosen for financial performance measures. The independent variables related to the capital structure are capital adequacy, equity-to-asset, and financial leverage ratios. In addition, macroeconomic variables and bank-specific variables are also considered as control variables for the analysis. The data are analyzed by the panel data regression analysis as it provides more informative finding and less multicollinearity among variables than time series and cross-sectional analyzes.

The Hausman test results indicate that the random effects model is appropriate for the whole dependent variables. According to the findings; while equity-to-asset ratio affects return on assets positively, amongst the control variables specific to firms, firm size, asset quality and asset growth variables have significant effects on return on assets. It is found no significant effect of independent variables on return on equity, however, it is seen that asset quality has a negative and significant effect. Inflation and interest rates have a significant effect on both variables. Finally, it is seen that equity-to-asset ratio has a positive and significant effect on earnings per share. Only the effect of asset quality on earnings per share is found to be significant among the control variables. Findings of the study are consistent with the previous studies. In addition, the M&M views are not supported by the findings related to return on assets and earnings per share but the return on equity.
Evolution Framework of the Classical Economics of Urbanization
Authors: Wu Yin
Published: April 2018

The urbanization is a process, but also a period of history; in theory, the classical economists had paid attention to the importance of urbanization on economic growth, also to examine those confusion in the growth and development of urbanization which facing the "dust, mud, swamp, jungle". What kind of urbanization need we pursuit? Petty, Smith, Marx, Marshall, Lewis, Yang Xiaokai and Harvey respectively researched from the different perspective of the development of urbanization in their view, this paper will be integrated into urbanization of the classical school of Architecture, and in time for the " longitude", the division of labor is the "latitude", depicts the main theory clues of urbanization by classical field which these scholars have analyzed. Overall, the urbanization problems encountered in the world today, which the classical economists have more or less analyzed or even if forecast and put forward appropriate solutions. It is very different from the study on the urbanization in the Neo-classical school who focus on technical analysis, the classical school of economists pay more attention to the analysis of the history of urbanization, class analysis and case analysis, they are very good at deep into the various contradictions and problems of urbanization development in the countries, to explore the cause, process and development trend of urbanization. They are extremely important wealth for policy makers and scholars who will research later on urbanization. It need timely summary of precipitation and learn from the discussion of the essence.
How to Survive in a Declining Industry? A study of the clothing industry in Southern Italy
Authors: Carbonara Nunzia
Published: April 2018

The aim of this paper is to identify possible competitive strategies that guarantee the survival of a declining industry.  To reach this aim an explorative empirical research based on a multiple case study design has been developed. The research focuses on the textile and clothing industry and studies seven target companies operating in different textile and clothing subsectors. Empirical results allow to define a strategic business framework consisting of three competitive strategies each one characterized by a strategic goal and implemented by three macro-strategic actions: deindustrialization, internationalization, and leverage networking.
The Influence Factors and International Comparison of Currency Crises under Abnormal Flow of Capital
Authors: He Yan
Published: April 2018

The paper focused on improving the measurement methods about the scale of international capital flow and putting forward the Comprehensive Measuring Method by which to analyze and compare the abnormal flows of international capital of 11 countries in which currency crises occurred by the empirical tests. In addition, the author studied the influence factors and ways of abnormal flow of capital from three aspects, and tried to provide scientific early-warning tool and countermeasures for preventing currency crises.
Demographic Dynamics, Savings, Investment and Current Account
Authors: Rusek Antonin
Published: April 2018

The upturn in the world economy brought with it the renewed attention to the issues of current account imbalances. Whereas large part of it is political, the issue still attracts some economic attention. In this paper the empirical side of the current account dynamics is addressed. We enquire of the relationships between the current account and savings dynamics, with the emphasis on the role of the “high savings” demographic cohorts (the population and/or labor force between 40 and 64). With the emphasis on the EUs “large” countries, we conclude that there is a significant role of this “high saving” population group in determining the current account dynamics for the consistent “high” surpluses countries of Germany and Netherlands.

The role of this population group is, however, rejected for France, Italy and Spain. In those countries the current account dynamics is dominated by (seemingly unexpected) liberalization of capital flows and the subsequent need for stabilization policies.  Similarly, the dominant role of the demographic dynamic is rejected for the comparison, floating exchange rate countries of USA and Japan.
PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABLE SPATIAL NONEQUILIBRIUM
Authors: Kaganovich A. A. , Prisyazhnyuk S. P. , Prisyazhnyuk A. S. , Petrov A.A.
Published: April 2018

On the basis of ongoing research and development the authors substantiate the need to improve the theoretical and methodological foundations of self-development processes for equilibrium and non-equilibrium economic multi-level systems.Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the functioning of the so-called «microscopic open nonequilibrium systems»

In the article, the economic system is viewed from the point of view of synergy - as dual entities consisting of a continuous and discrete sphere.Classification of possible evolutionary changes in the kinetic and constitutional spheres in the process of self-development for economic equilibrium and nonequilibrium systems.Particular attention is paid to the continuous self-organization of microscopic open systems.
Globalization minus One: The Emerging Contours of a New Global Economic Order
Authors: Namaki M S S El
Published: April 2018

Disruption induces disequilibrium. Today’s global economy is the case in point. Powerful sources of disruption are undermining classic premises of global economic equilibrium and, in the process, changing the contours of the World economy. Long cherished globalization premises of free market,   open economy,   small government, private initiative and deregulation are being challenged. Sources of this challenge are numerous but the most striking is the recent rapid and abrupt USA reclusive and isolationist measures.  The United States, the key global economic player, is assuming a protective posture by introducing tariff barriers, annulling international trade agreements, promoting self-serving job creation slogans and hastily recalling industries and services.  And all this is uttering threats of crude retaliation.  National interest seems to have taken precedence over cross country gains. And others seem to be working on a new framework:  globalization minus one. A globalization that is based on new premises and involves the majority of global economic players but one:  the United States. This will be the focus of the following article.
Heterosis for Catechins and Caffeine in Kenyan Tea (Camellia sinensis) (L.)O. Kuntze).
Authors: Kamunya Samson M. , Lubang’a Nelson M. , Kiplagat Oliver , Wanyoko John K. , Chalo Richard M.
Published: April 2018

Tea quality is manifested in its aroma, flavour and taste properties, which are generated by
volatile and non-volatile compounds, mainly catechins and caffeine. Several studies have revealed
positive significant relationships between (flavan-3-ols) catechins and caffeine in green leaf and
black tea quality. Additionally, the health benefits of tea in management of cancer, arthritis,
cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity have been attributed to catechins and caffeine. Eight
biochemical traits of tea were used to investigate mid-parent heterosis (MPH), better parent
heterosis (BPH) and standard heterosis (SDH) in a 4x4 diallel mating design. Overall, genotype
x environment interaction influenced heterosis. For example, mean GA, EGC, C, EC and TC
contents were higher at Timbilil compared to Kangaita while mean Caffeine, EGCG and ECG
were higher at Kangaita compared to Timbilil. The results also showed that, inbreds (EPK TN14-
3, AHP S15/10 and TRFK 6/8) had improved catechins content and could be used in recurrent
selection to develop tea with high catechins content. Crosses, which showed high positive
heterosis over the mid-parent, better parent and the standard variety, could be utilized to generate
transgressive segregants in the later generations with high catechins and caffeine.
Characterization of New Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) Hybrid Progenies Based on Morphological Traits
Authors: Thuvaraki B. , Ranatunga M.A. B. , Arachchi J.D. Kottawa- , Sumanasinghe V. A.
Published: April 2018

Hybridization is the main method of obtaining genetic variation and breeding of new cultivars.
Two parents selected for their desired characteristics were crossed to create genetic variation.
One hundred and eighteen putative hybrids were generated by crossing two diverse parents, TRI
2043 which is characterized with high pubescence density, pigmented leaves, tolerant to blister
blight disease, and TRI 3055 a non-pigmented, stem canker tolerant cultivar. A reciprocal cross
was also made. Total progeny was characterized for five morphological traits; anthocyanin
pigmentation in petiole, leaf vestiture, average number of pubescence of leaf, immature leaf
colour, and petiole colour. Average number of pubescence in abaxil of the second leaf varied from
5 to 149 with the mean of 62. Parental cultivar TRI 2043 recorded the highest average number of
pubescence and TRI 3055 had the lowest. Among the progenies, 93 individuals contained
anthocyanin pigmentation in petiole, which was the characteristic feature of TRI 2043. Population
was subjected to genetic analysis and the resultant dendrogram clearly categorized the progenies
into four clusters. Significant variation was found among the individuals in the progeny. Forty
individuals showed close resemblance with the parent TRI 2043 and 21 individuals grouped with
cultivar TRI 3055. Rest of the individuals shared both parental morphological characteristics.
Seasonal and Environment Variations of Yields and Yield Components of Tea (Camellia sinensis) Cultivars in Kenya
Authors: Nyabundi Karl W. , Owuor P. Okinda , Netondo Godfrey W. , Bore John K.
Published: April 2018

In Kenya, tea is grown in highlands east and west of the Rift Valley at altitudes ranging from 1300
m to 2700 m above mean sea level. These areas vary widely in seasonal and locational environmental
factors leading to differences in responses in growth, productivity and quality of tea genotypes.
Despite these differences, tea husbandry practices are uniform across tea growing regions in the
country. Understanding modes of variations in tea growth parameters and yields to varying
environments is crucial for optimization of husbandry practices for tea productivity
improvements. Responses in clonal tea growth and yield parameters to season and locations of
production effects and their contribution to yields were evaluated, using 20 cultivars in a genotype
× environment trial conducted in three locations (Kipkebe, Timbilil and Kangaita). There were
yield variations (pd”0.05) between clones, locations and seasons. Tea yield components responses
to weather parameters varied with location and season. Shoot growth rates in Kangaita and shoot
density in Timbilil linearly correlated (pd”0.05) with yields but varied with season. Yield
components and weather parameters contribution to the yield also varied with location and
seasons causing significant (pd”0.05) interactions effects. Drought reduced yields while rainfall
distribution influenced seasonal yield distribution. Seasonal yield variations were due to shoot
growth rate, and shoot dry weight changes but not shoot density. The variations were due to
seasonal environmental factors that limited yields rather than factors that increased yields.
Evaluation of Shubhodoya Mycorrhizal Bio-fertilizer for Enhancing Rooting of Nursery Tea Plants.
Authors: Sitienei Kibet , Cheramgoi Evelyne C. , Rop Methusela , Kamau David M. , Keter Robert
Published: April 2018

Bio-fertilizers have not been exploited in Kenya on tea production despite benefits demonstrated
in many crops. The bio-fertilizers are organisms that enrich nutrient soil quality. Plants have
beneficial relationships with such organisms. Shubhodoya mycorrhizal bio-fertilizer is a consortium
of three different species of Glomus mycorrhizal fungus, produced in laboratory under sterile
conditions. They are cultured and used for inoculating seed or soil or both under ideal conditions
to increase availability of plant nutrients. A nursery experiment was conducted to evaluate the
efficacy of Shubhodaya mycorrhizal bio-fertilizer (SMB) in enhancing growth of two tea clones,
TRFK 306 and EPK TN14-3. Different rates of SMB (0.6g, 0.9g, and 1.2g), standard treatment
(6g diammonium phosphate) and control (no fertilizer) were laid out in randomized complete
block design. Sleeved seedlings with the soil were randomly sampled from the nursery for
analysis of soil pH, assessment of growth parameters and mycorrhizal colonization were
conducted. Root samples were used to determine dry weight and to conduct assays for VAM
infection. The SMB did not have adverse effects on soil pH in the nursery. Plants subjected to the
DAP treatment all died after weeks 27. Increasing application of SMB rates and frequency
increased shoot growth. SMB at 1.2 g exhibited the lowest shoots dry weight while SMB at 0.6
and 0.9g had the highest. After 62 weeks from planting, there was an abrupt increase in shoot dry
weight. Successful colonization of tea roots with inoculation of SMB was also observed. SMB
colonized the tea roots an indication that it has potential for exploitation.
Yields and Nitrogenous Fertiliser Use Efficiency Responses of Clonal Tea (Camellia Sinensis) to Locations of Production
Authors: Nyabundi Karl W , Owuor P Okinda , Netondo Godfrey W , Bore John K
Published: April 2018

Tea husbandry practices in Kenya are uniform despite variations in responses to agronomic
inputs with locations. Nitrogen availability is the most limiting tea/crop growth factor. However,
tea yields vary with region of production even with the same cultivar, suggesting responses to
nitrogen fertiliser and nitrogen utilisation may vary with locations. Nitrogen use efficiency
(NUE) of clone TRFK 6/8 was investigated across three different locations/environments in
western Kenya. Yields responded significantly (pd”0.05) to nitrogen fertiliser rates, but the
responses varied with location of production. The responses to nitrogen rates were significantly
lower (pd”0.05) in Timbilil than in Arroket and Changoi. This suggests that optimal nitrogenous
fertiliser application rates should vary with locations. Nitrogen application rates between 75-
300Kg N did not cause significant variation in harvestable shoots nitrogen contents. However,
there were large differences in the amounts of nitrogen removed with crop. The NUE of tea
decreased as nitrogen fertiliser rates increased and was low in areas where yield responses were
low. Such areas need low nitrogen fertiliser application rates to justify return on investment.
Quantity of nitrogen removed with crop followed same pattern. On replacement basis, nitrogen
removed with crop did not exceed the recommended rate of application (150 kg N/ha/year) at any
location or nitrogen rate. Shoot nitrogen contents suggest that soil applied nitrogen may not be
responsible for locational variations in yield realisation. Results demonstrate that fertiliser
management practices, especially nitrogen rates need to be location specific.