bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
iASPP is a novel autophagy inhibitor in keratinocytes
Authors: Chikh Anissa , Sanzà Paolo , Raimondi Claudio , Akinduro Olufolake , Warnes Gary , Chiorino Giovanna , Byrne Carolyn , Harwood Catherine A. , Bergamaschi Daniele
Published: April 2014

The protein iASPP (encoded by PPP1R13L) is an evolutionarily conserved p53 inhibitor, the expression of which is often upregulated in human cancers. We have recently shown that iASPP is a crucial regulator of epidermal homeostasis. Here, we report that iASPP also acts as autophagy inhibitor in keratinocytes. Our data show that depletion of iASPP protects keratinocytes from apoptosis by modulating the expression of Noxa (also known as PMAIP1). In our model, iASPP expression can affect the fission-fusion cycle, mass and shape of mitochondria. iASPP-silenced keratinocytes display disorganization of cytosolic compartments and increased metabolic stress caused by deregulation of mTORC1 signaling. Moreover, increased levels of lipidated LC3 protein confirmed the activation of autophagy in iASPP-depleted cells. We have identified a novel mechanism modulating autophagy in keratinocytes that relies upon iASPP expression specifically reducing the interaction of Atg5–Atg12 with Atg16L1, an interaction that is essential for autophagosome formation or maturation. Using organotypic culture, we further explored the link between autophagy and differentiation, and we showed that impairing autophagy affects epidermal terminal differentiation. Our data provide an alternative mechanism to explain how epithelial integrity is maintained against environmental stressors and might also improve the understanding of the etiology of skin diseases that are characterized by defects in differentiation and DNA damage responses.
CLIP-170 is required to recruit PLK1 to kinetochores during early mitosis for chromosome alignment
Authors: Amin Mohammed Abdullahel , Itoh Go , Iemura Kenji , Ikeda Masanori , Tanaka Kozo
Published: April 2014

The cytoplasmic linker protein (CLIP)-170, an outer kinetochore protein, has a role in kinetochore–microtubule attachment and chromosome alignment during mitosis. However, the mechanism of CLIP-170's involvement in chromosome alignment is not known. Here we show that CLIP-170 co-localizes with Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) at kinetochores during early mitosis. Depletion of CLIP-170 results in a significant reduction of PLK1 recruitment to kinetochores, and causes kinetochore-fiber (K-fiber) instability and defects in chromosome alignment at the metaphase plate. These phenotypes are dependent on the phosphorylation of CLIP-170 at a CDK1-site, T287, as ectopic expression of wild-type CLIP-170, but not non-phosphorylatable mutant, CLIP-170–T287A, restores PLK1 localization at kinetochores and rescues K-fiber stability and chromosome alignment. These data suggest that CLIP-170 acts as a novel recruiter and spatial regulator of PLK1 at kinetochores during early mitosis, to promote K-fiber stability and chromosome alignment for error-free chromosome segregation.
A gestão do marketing mix: como mexer no time que está ganhando?
Authors: Da Costa Filho Custódio Genésio , De Mesquita José Marcos Carvalho , Fernandes Renato Borges , Caixeta Ronaldo Pereira , De Castro Cleber Carvalho
Published: April 2014

As decisões de marketing de uma empresa nascente levaram a excelentes resultados iniciais. O conflito se constitui a partir da inquietação de um dos sócios-diretores, para quem as estratégias, até então vitoriosas, devem ser revistas para que a empresa atinja a liderança de mercado. DOI: 10.12660/gvcasosv4n1c2http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/gvcasosv4n1c2
Lanchonete Tia Joana: mercado e estratégias de marca
Authors: De Macedo Ciro Ribeiro Rocha , Limongi Ricardo , De Almeida Marcos Inácio Severo
Published: April 2014

Uma tradicional empresa, com 50 anos de história e forte posicionamento no interior do estado de Goiás, prepara sua expansão para a capital.DOI: 10.12660/gvcasosv4n1c3http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/gvcasosv4n1c3
O lugar dos conflitos e os conflitos de lugar na falência de uma empresa familiar
Authors: Bretas Paula Fernandes Furbino , Saraiva Luiz Alex Silva
Published: April 2014

O caso relata o processo de organização e falência de um empreendimento familiar. Conflitos pessoais, profissionais e familiares entre irmãos-sócios têm um papel central na falência desta empresa. DOI: 10.12660/gvcasosv4n1c7http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/gvcasosv4n1c7
Lanchonete Tia Joana: mercado e estratégias de marca (Notas de ensino)
Authors: De Macedo Ciro Ribeiro Rocha , Limongi Ricardo , De Almeida Marcos Inácio Severo
Published: April 2014

DOI: 10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n3http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n3
Além do associativismo tradicional: novo formato de gestão de uma cooperativa de compras (Notas de ensino)
Authors: Machado Claralucia , Olea Pelayo Munhoz , Roesch Sylvia Maria Azevedo
Published: April 2014

DOI: 10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n5http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n5
A gestão na roda do chimarrão: os desafios da Estância dos Pampas (Notas de ensino)
Authors: Bittencourt Bruno Anicet , Zen Aurora Carneiro , Da Costa Ana Paula Paes Vieira
Published: April 2014

DOI: 10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n6http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n6
O lugar dos conflitos e os conflitos de lugar na falência de uma empresa familiar (Notas de ensino)
Authors: Bretas Paula Fernandes Furbino , Saraiva Luiz Alex Silva
Published: April 2014

DOI: 10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n7http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n7
Só tecnologia não basta (Notas de ensino)
Authors: Freitas Wilson Aparecido , Da Cunha Maria Alexandra Viegas Cortez
Published: April 2014

DOI: 10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n8http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/gvcasosv4n1n8
Technical Note—Deriving Robust and Globalized Robust Solutions of Uncertain Linear Programs with General Convex Uncertainty Sets
Authors: Gorissen Bram L. , Blanc Hans , den Hertog Dick , Ben-Tal Aharon
Published: April 2014

We propose a new way to derive tractable robust counterparts of a linear program based on the duality between the robust (“pessimistic”) primal problem and its “optimistic” dual. First we obtain a new convex reformulation of the dual problem of a robust linear program, and then show how to construct the primal robust solution from the dual optimal solution. Our result allows many new uncertainty regions to be considered. We give examples of tractable uncertainty regions that were previously intractable. The results are illustrated by solving a multi-item newsvendor problem. We also apply the new method to the globalized robust counterpart scheme and show its tractability.
Environmentally Friendly Supply Chain Planning and Design for Biodiesel Production via Wastewater Sludge
Authors: Marufuzzaman Mohammad , Ekşioğlu Sandra Duni , Hernandez Rafael
Published: April 2014

This study presents mathematical models that capture the impact of different carbon-emission-related policies on the design of the biodiesel supply chain. These mathematical models identify locations and production capacities for biocrude production plants by exploring the trade-offs that exist between transportation costs, facility investments costs, and emissions. The mathematical models capture the dynamics of biomass supply and transportation costs during a predefined time horizon. We analyze the behavior of the chain under different regulatory policies such as carbon cap, carbon tax, carbon cap and trade, and carbon offset mechanisms. A number of observations are made about the impact of each policy on the supply chain performance. The models we developed are solved by using a commercial software GAMS/CPLEX. We use the state of Mississippi as the testing grounds for these models, and employ ArcGIS to visualize and validate the results from the optimization models.
From the Crisis of Surplus Value to the Crisis of the Euro
Authors: Guglielmo Carchedi
Published: April 2014

The financial crisis that erupted in 2007 and the subsequent crisis of the euro have received enormous attention both in the media and in specialized journals. One of the features of the recent literature is that the relation between Marx's law of the tendential fall in the rate of profit and the earthquake that has stricken the euro zone has been, with a few exceptions, overlooked. The basic reason for this failure is that it has become almost a matter of common sense to regard Marx's law as internally inconsistent and empirically disproved. What follows submits empirical material supporting the validity of the law. It then proceeds to sketch the basic lines of Marx's analysis of crises. Finally, it relates this analysis to the present financial turmoil and to the euro crisis.
Who is the Exchange Rate Manipulator: China or America?
Authors: Wei Liu  , Libing Deng
Published: April 2014

The manipulation of the US dollar and other countries' currencies has been a longstanding American prerogative, thus American politicians and scholars are accustomed to labeling countries that fight against American policies on the US dollar as “currency manipulators.” The substance of America's accusation of currency manipulation against China is that when America starts to control dollars in order to transfer its domestic economic problems abroad, China is expected to do nothing and simply live with an unstable RMB exchange rate. Obviously, there is a great difference between China and Japan. China will never allow itself to become “the second Japan” that swallows bitter pills like the Plaza Accord.
A Review of the Seventh Forum of the World Association for Political Economy
Authors: Xiaoqin Ding  , Shan Tong
Published: April 2014

After the world economic crisis broke out in 2008, some developed capitalist countries adopted right-wing policies to rob the poor for the rich, at the expense of developing countries with no concern over the ecological environment. They succeeded in helping the giant financial capitalists, but exacerbated the governmental debt crisis, and did little to relieve the unemployment crisis. They have increased the suffering of the majority of workers, did harm to the long-term ecological environment, and consequently caused the resistance and protest of workers at home and abroad. It has also forced developing countries to strengthen cooperation between each other, especially among the BRICS countries, and caused people to think about alternative institutions and specific programs which are better for ecology and human development. To that end, the World Association for Political Economy (WAPE) held the 7th Forum to make in-depth discussion on these issues.
The Bifurcation of Marxist Economic Analysis
Authors: Rasmus Jack
Published: April 2014

Contemporary mainstream economics, in both its Keynesian and New Classicalist perspectives, failed to predict not only the eruption of the recent economic crisis circa 2007-08, but also the historically weak and uneven recovery of the global economy, 2008-12. The article argues the basic reason for the failure is a deficient conceptual apparatus that fails to account for the role of credit, debt, asset prices, the growing weight of speculative investment, and financial variables in general. Leaving this theme for subsequent further development, the article maintains that a similar conceptual deficiency has prevented Marxist economists in recent years from adequately understanding and predicting the continuing global economic crisis. By focusing primarily on Marx's triad of production of value concepts (rate of exploitation, organic composition of capital, and falling rate of profit) as the core conceptual apparatus for explaining the crisis, Marxist economists have been unable to adequately account for the destabilizing role of finance capital in the 21st century. Financial instability is viewed as a second derivative of real economic instability—the latter represented and measured quantitatively by the tendency of the overall rate of profit to fall. The disruptive impact of finance capital on the realization of value, the full circuit of capital, and capital accumulation is largely de-emphasized. In contrast, the article argues that changes in global financial structure, financial institutions, and financial markets in 21st-century global Capitalism have rendered Marx's 19th-century view of money, credit and banking insufficient. Marxist economic analysis thus needs to develop a more complete conceptual apparatus, beyond the production of value conceptual “triad” and addressing more directly the realization of value processes, if it is to more adequately account for the disruptive role of finance capital in the 21st century. Only by so doing can Marxist analysis de-emphasize its excessive and misdirected reliance on the falling rate of profit as the key predictive variable for understanding the current crisis of Capital. Suggestions for a new conceptual apparatus focusing on value realization, the full circuit of Capital, and thus finance capital, are offered.
Is “Walras' Law” Really Walras's Original Law?
Authors: Davar Ezra
Published: April 2014

This article shows that “Walras' Law,” which is one of the crucial foundations of modern economic theory as formulated by Lange, and modified by the modern authors, differs essentially from Walras's own original laws. These two versions of “Walras Law” are disconnected from real economics; nevertheless, unfortunately, they replaced Walras's original laws which are compatible with a hypothetical regime of perfectly free competition.
The Power of Marx-Engels Scientific Research Program and its Fulfilled Predictions: A Note on Heterodox Epistemology
Authors: Jesús Muñoz
Published: April 2014

Knowledge is an indicator of human development, and to contribute further knowledge to the interpretation of the legacy of Marx and Engels is the objective of this article. The relevant question in this theme is: Is the Marxian message alive in the twenty-first century? This article in the fields of the history of economic thought and methodology outlines the vision of Marx-Engels in its economic, sociological and philosophical elements—chiefly the first of these. For that purpose, a description of their Scientific Research Program (SRP), a Lakatosian concept is outlined in the first section as a test of their theoretical soundness. Specifically the hard core of Marx and Engels' SRP is outlined in the second section along with a brief literature review of conceptions about the legacy of Marx and Engels' work. Marx's theory is thus systematically organized in terms of scientific research programs. In addition, both the positive heuristic and protective belt of Marx and Engels' SRP are outlined in the third section. Since a research program is an indicator of progress in science based on the empirical success of the theory in question, some fulfilled (and previously discredited) predictions of Marx and Engels' SRP are briefly mentioned in the fourth section. These interrelated methodological tasks test the argument of the qualitative aliveness of the interdisciplinary message of Marx and Engels for all time, since the identification of theoretical soundness is the first step to test scientific progressiveness in a SRP. During the process some key concepts of Marx and Engels' SRP such as exploitation, alienation and surplus are reinterpreted under this perspective, proving their relevance in modern life. It is concluded from this exercise in the fifth section that Marx and Engels' SRP is sound and progressive in qualitative terms, although it was previously rejected on the basis of ideological, theoretical and practical misinterpretations. Finally, the complex system of Marx is discussed in the Appendix to undertake a further test of the former arguments. References and further reading are listed at the end of the article.
On Nikolai Bukharin's Interpretation of Marx's Scheme of Expanded Reproduction
Authors: Nobumichi Sekiguchi
Published: April 2014

There have so far been very few criticisms of Lenin's and Bukharin's interpretation of Marx's scheme of expanded reproduction. This article, therefore, attempts a critical discussion of their views. As a result of the author's analysis, he finds that Lenin's interpretation is quite close to Say-Ricardo theory and has no connection with Marx's problem to be solved through the use of his scheme of expanded reproduction. Bukharin's interpretation is based on a breach of the principles of Marx's theory of surplus-value and accumulation of capital. First, Marx's major principles associated with the discussion are clarified, and then Bukharin's interpretation is checked against these principles which Bukharin should accept if he regards his interpretation is in accordance with Marx's theory. The author agrees with Rosa Luxemburg that there are no buyers for the surplus product to be accumulated in “pure” capitalist society in the light of Marx's theory of surplus-value and accumulation of capital.
Structural Unemployment in Brazil in the Neoliberal Era
Authors: Pedro Henrique Evangelista Duarte
Published: April 2014

The Brazilian economy is historically characterized by an unequal economic and social structure. Over the years, given this economic and social structure, the Brazilian economy developed without solving its main problems. This has created barriers to both stable economic growth and improvements in the living conditions of the population. Even though the industrial sector between 1930 and 1970 increased its investment, growth and output rates, reinforcing its structure and proportion in the gross domestic product, unemployment and income inequality have remained as structural characteristics of the Brazilian economy. The crisis in the 1980s and the neoliberal policies in the 1990s strengthened these problems, especially through the increase in the unemployment rate and in the informal sector, and with the deregulation of the labor laws. The Brazilian government only started to pay attention to those problems from the Lula government onwards, implementing public policies to promote improvements in the labor market. However, high unemployment rates, low wages and income inequality still remain as structural problems in the Brazilian economy. Based on these aspects, the article will analyze structural unemployment in Brazil over the last ten years, pointing out and trying to understand the problems and trends. The discussion developed by Karl Marx in Capital concerning the relative surplus population and the reserve army will be the theoretical approach on which that analysis will be based.
Reviving the Cambridge Controversy by Combining Marx with Sraffa
Authors: Tiago Camarinha Lopes
Published: April 2014

For the present situation in the teaching of economics, a field where the method of historical materialism is not employed, the mutual dissent between the theories of Marx and Sraffa represents a controversy of a scholastic character. The confirmation of the redundancy of the labor theory of value for the quantitative determination of prices contributed to diverting the attention of theoreticians from the concrete aim of Production of Commodities by Means of Commodities. As a result, the two Cambridges debate was abandoned before real changes in economics textbooks could occur. Although there are other reasons for the lack of a Sraffian impact on the mainstream, this article argues that it is possible to combine the critiques of Marx and Sraffa as a way to focus attention on the Capital Controversies.
The “Financialized” Structure of Automobile Corporations in the 2000s
Authors: Roberto Alexandre Zanchetta Borghi  , Fernando Sarti  , Marcos Antonio Macedo Cintra
Published: April 2014

Important changes in the economic system, both in productive and financial dimensions, have been observed since the 1970s, pointing to a growing capital mobility and a stronger presence of finance within the logic of non-financial corporations. This article aims to analyze this increasing role of finance in the dynamics of automobile companies. Data from annual financial statements of selected carmakers (Daimler, Fiat, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Toyota and Volkswagen) between 2000 and 2009 are considered, in order to verify the occurrence of a “financialization” movement in this industry. From the analysis, a clear movement towards a more “financialized” pattern of the carmakers' structure could be observed, although there were notable differences among groups according to corporate dependence upon activities from the financial segment and the degree of exposure of their financial structures.
Régulation Approach to Financial Crisis: Potential Economic Policies under Structural Changes of Institution
Authors: Takayuki Nakahara
Published: April 2014

In this article, we argue the recent financial crisis from the point of view of institutional economics, particularly from the Régulation approach. This approach emphasizes “institution is important” for economic analysis, so Régulationists see the recent financial crisis as a “structural crisis,” that is, a crisis of institutional forms inherent in developed economies. Therefore, they see the cause of the recent financial crisis as the appearance of inadequacy on the mode of Régulation composed of various institutional forms. Thus, we first analyze the financialization of economy based on the concept of “finance-led regimes.” Second, we propose it is necessary to reform the tax system in order to escape from financial crisis. Third, we examine the new monetary theory: “sovereign money” theory. Finally we shall conclude that political sovereignty is subordinate to monetary sovereignty in an era of globalization.
A Review of the Eighth Forum of the World Association for Political Economy
Authors: Xiaoqin Ding  , Yanqing Guo  , Translated by Shan Tong
Published: April 2014

There are many kinds of inequalities such as inequalities between nations, gender inequalities, racial inequalities, and especially income and wealth inequalities, which are emerging as the most important ones in the current global crisis of capitalism. Also, the latest historic crisis of capitalism has led to a decline in the levels of growth in the world, especially in Europe, with enormous social consequences. The response of the dominant classes in these countries to these problems has been the imposition of austerity policies. These policies instead of reducing unemployment and improving living standards have increased the reach of private capitalist activities. In May of 2013, WAPE held its Eighth Forum themed “Inequalities and World Capitalism: Analysis, Policy and Action.” The aim is to analyze the reasons for world inequality and counter measures against it, find the conditions of the world development from the radical perspective through renewed study of the finished and unfinished writings of Marx and of the plural realities of our time.
Social Inequalities in Teenage Fertility Outcomes: Childbearing and Abortion Trends of Three Birth Cohorts In Finland
Authors: Väisänen Heini , Murphy Michael
Published: April 2014

Context

Teenagers of low socioeconomic status are more likely to get pregnant, and less likely to choose abortion, than more privileged teenagers. Few studies have used longitudinal data to examine whether these differences persist as overall teenage pregnancy rates decline.

Methods

Nationally representative register data from 259,242 Finnish women in three birth cohorts (1955–1959, 1965–1969 and 1975–1979) were analyzed using Cox regression to assess socioeconomic differences in teenagers’ risks of pregnancy and abortion. Binary logistic regression was used to assess socioeconomic differences in the odds of pregnant teenagers’ choosing abortion.

Results

Socioeconomic differences in abortion risk did not change substantially across cohorts; however, differences in the risk of childbirth rose between the first two cohorts and then returned to their earlier level. In all cohorts, teenagers from upper‐level employee backgrounds, the most privileged group, had the lowest risks of abortion and childbirth (44–53% and 53–69% lower, respectively, than those for manual workers’ children). Teenagers whose parents were lower‐level employees or farmers also had reduced risks of both outcomes in all cohorts; results for other socioeconomic groups were less consistent. Pregnant teenagers from upper‐level employee backgrounds had 2–3 times the odds of abortion of manual workers’ children; the largest difference was found in the 1950s cohort.

Conclusions

Despite the declining overall teenage pregnancy rate, poorer background continues to be associated with a higher risk of conceiving and of giving birth.
Early Detection of Fragile X Syndrome: Applications of a Novel Approach for Improved Quantitative Methylation Analysis in Venous Blood and Newborn Blood Spots
Authors: Inaba Yoshimi , Schwartz Charles E , Bui Quang M , Li Xin , Skinner Cindy , Field Michael , Wotton Tiffany , Hagerman Randi J , Francis David , Amor David J , Hopper John L , Loesch Danuta Z , Bretherton Lesley , Slater Howard R , Godler David E
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Standard fragile X syndrome (FXS) diagnostic tests that target methylation of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) CpG island 5′ of the CGG expansion can be used to predict severity of the disease in males from birth, but not in females.

METHODS

We describe methylation specific–quantitative melt analysis (MS-QMA) that targets 10 CpG sites, with 9 within FMR1 intron 1, to screen for FXS from birth in both sexes. The novel method combines the qualitative strengths of high-resolution melt and the high-throughput, quantitative real-time PCR standard curve to provide accurate quantification of DNA methylation in a single assay. Its performance was assessed in 312 control (CGG <40), 143 premutation (PM) (CGG 56–170), 197 full mutation (FM) (CGG 200–2000), and 33 CGG size and methylation mosaic samples.

RESULTS

In male and female newborn blood spots, MS-QMA differentiated FM from control alleles, with sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values between 92% and 100%. In venous blood of FM females between 6 and 35 years of age, MS-QMA correlated most strongly with verbal IQ impairment (P = 0.002). In the larger cohort of males and females, MS-QMA correlated with reference methods Southern blot and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (P < 0.05), but was not significantly correlated with age. Unmethylated alleles in high-functioning FM and PM males determined by both reference methods were also unmethylated by MS-QMA.

CONCLUSIONS

MS-QMA has an immediate application in FXS diagnostics, with a potential use of its quantitative methylation output for prognosis in both sexes.
The elastic modulus of isolated polytetrafluoroethylene filaments
Authors: Drawe Patrick , Lüttschwager Nils O.B. , Suhm Martin A.
Published: April 2014

We report vibrational Raman spectra of small extended perfluoro-n-alkanes (C
n
F2n+2 with n = 6, 8–10, 12–14) isolated in supersonic jet expansions and use wavenumbers of longitudinal acoustic vibrations to extrapolate the elastic modulus of cold, isolated polytetrafluoroethylene filaments. The derived value E = 209(10) GPa defines an upper limit for the elastic modulus of the perfectly crystalline, noninteracting polymer at low temperatures and serves as a benchmark for quantum chemical predictions.
Tim Key and Gogol's Overcoat: Review 1
Authors: Rayner Michelle
Published: April 2014

This finely wrought fusion of fiction and realism is an illuminating, enchanting, listening experience. On one level it can be heard as a playful riff on absurdism, on art, by a clever comedian (Tim Key) who harbours an obsession with one book and its author: Gogol’s The Overcoat. And yet on another level it offers a wry and gentle insight into, among other things, the nature of the human condition. Key's tone is intimate and confessional as he attempts to deconstruct the meaning (or meaninglessness) of Gogol’s story. The program wears its structural architecture lightly, combining the element of surprise (why not include an interview with a sports commentator best known for his sheepskin overcoat, in a program ostensibly about a 19th century Russian short story), with humour, subtle allusion, and intriguing interplay and blurring between fiction and fact. Like Gogol’s protagonist in The Overcoat, Tim Key is also tantalisingly unreliable. There’s a gentle warmth and brevity to the humour, so that none of the rich ‘cast’ of interviewees, who walk through Key’s increasingly rollicking mise-en-scene is presented as caricature. The selection and placement of extracts from The Overcoat reveal a deft hand, and they work well to seamlessly build this melding of life and art. It’s probably more comedy than literary feature – and yet its appeal is that it is, skillfully, both of these things. It’s a program which could appeal to those who might otherwise be uninterested in the subjects of writing, Russian history, and the origins of absurdist humour.
Reviewer Michelle Rayner is an award-winning documentary maker and Executive Producer of the History Unit at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s Radio National.
The Case of "Sonia": Psychotherapy With a Complex, Difficult Patient Grounded in the Integrated Psychotherapy Model of Hector Fernandez-Alvarez
Authors: Scherb Elena
Published: April 2014

Sonia was part of a clinical, naturalistic, and longitudinal research project I developed that began in 1998, with patients who consulted at the well-known AIGLE center in Buenos Aires, Argentina. In the project I selected patients with severe and complex psychological symptoms for whom previous treatments were reported by the patients to have been ineffective. The goal of the project was to employ Dr. Héctor Fernández-Álvarez's Integrative Psychotherapy Model to design a new treatment approach involving combined strategies that could successfully work with such individuals. At the time of intake, Sonia was a 44-year-old, divorced, morbidly obese woman living with her 18-year-old mildly retarded son in an apartment purchased for her by her affluent parents. When Sonia came for treatment, she could not manage her son or her own basic needs and finances and had frequent angry outbursts with her family members. She was diagnosed as having bipolar disorder or cyclothymia, trichotillomania, borderline personality disorder, borderline intellectual functioning, and was on medication for these conditions. This case study describes 10 years of treatment,including over 900 sessions, working on the development of Sonia's coping and interpersonal skills and on restructuring her most basic cognitions about herself and her relationships to others, particularly her family members. During the 10 years, the therapy was gradually reduced in intensity as Sonia made gradual but dramatic changes in her self-concept, her obesity, her relationship to her family, and her ability to work and independently manage her life. While because of her long history of previous treatments, Sonia did not consent to take any standardized assessment measures, she did agree to a collaboratively developed, individualized, 27-item List of Problems and Behaviors Questionnaire (LOPBQ). With a scoring range of 0 ("problem not solved at all") to 5 (problem "totally solved") on each item, Sonia went from an average item score of .33 to one of 4.19 over the course of the first 8 years; that is, from a score of 6.7% of a maximum score to 83.8% of a maximum score. The process by which this impressive change took place is detailed.
Psychotherapy of Schizophrenia Works
Authors: Karon Bertram P.
Published: April 2014

Davidson (2008), VandenBos (2008), and Silver (2008), well-known experts in the treatment of schizophrenia, have provided very interesting, thought-provoking, and important perspectives on my Case of Mr. X (Karon, 2008) and other such patients. In my response to Davidson, I describe my own problematic clinical experience concerning his positive view of “assertive community treatment.” I also reply to the questions Davidson raises about my clinical techniques and interpretations, e.g., my telling Mr. X that I would not let anyone kill him, my telling Mr. X that he would not become psychotic again under the normal stresses of life, and my intepretation that Mr. X’s not eating was the result of the fear of being poisoned.  Finally, I provide an alternative interpretation from Davidson of Freud’s case of the Wolf Man.  Because VandenBos and Silver are longtime, supportive colleagues and collaborators, I spend most of my time in responding to their commentaries by emphasizing our points of agreement.  Throughout this response, I emphasize my belief that that the powerful ideas in psychoanalysis are not just abstractions, but rather the source of strategies that are very pragmatically helpful in conducting psychotherapy with individuals suffering from schizophrenia.
Treatment Paradigms in Psychology
Authors: Mandala James
Published: April 2014

This commentary describes my observations as the clinical supervisor of Dr. Hector Garcia’s  (2008) second, psychodynamic phase of therapy with “Bridget,” which followed a first phase of successful cognitive-behavioral treatment for specific, obsessive-compulsive symptoms with religious content. The second treatment phase focused on less structured issues such as, in Dr. Garcia’s words, “the qualities and patterns of past relationships with men, her current social network, and dynamics within her family of origin.” This case raises a number of complex and highly important, general issues. The ones I have chosen to discuss are: (a) the meaning of “compulsive” versus “healthy” prayer;  (b) the sequencing of the theoretical shift from cognitive-behavioral to psychodynamic therapy; (c) the utilization of countertransference phenomena and the “real” relationship in psychotherapy; and (d) the impact of eclecticism in the training of beginning therapists.
Meaning and Pragmatism in OCD Treatment
Authors: Garcia Hector A.
Published: April 2014

This response to the commentaries of Mandala (2008) and of Deacon and Nelson (2008) focuses on the utility of treatments nested within different theoretical schools of thought. Here I concentrate on the use of self as clinical tool, and the need to define variables and concepts in treatment so that they can be methodically utilized. I also choose to focus on the use of functional analysis to sharpen the accuracy of exposure treatment, and on the relative value of the use of cognitive therapy in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment. Finally, I describe a 5-year follow-up conversation with Bridget along with Bridget’s repeat of standardized ratings to illustrate the struggle in differentiating scrupulosity and religious observance as it is experienced by the scrupulous OCD patient.
Further Reflections on the Therapy Training Program in Aarhus, and the Role of Case Studies in Psychotherapy Research
Authors: Hougaard Esben
Published: April 2014

This paper responds to commentaries by Edwards (2008) and Huppert, Carmeli, and Gilon (2008) on the case study of a special format of intensive, group cognitive-behavioral therapy for social phobia in an Anxiety Clinic run by the Department of Psychology of the University of Aarhus in Denmark (Hougaard et al., 2008). My response addresses the following topics: 1) case studies and evidence-based practice; 2) the evidence-basis of the Aarhus treatment program; 3) mechanisms of change in psychotherapy; 4) the Aarhus clients and their treatment in the program; 5) the Aarhus trainees and their learning; and 6) differences between the training program of Huppert et al. in Jerusalem and our Aarhus program.
A Contribution to Psychotherapy Integration
Authors: Stricker George
Published: April 2014

Ingram (2009) presents a case study conducted within her model of psychotherapy integration, a systematic approach that takes several factors into account. Within the integration field, Ingram’s model can be classified within the bounds of “Technical Eclecticism,” and is more encompassing than other similar approaches. The approach can be improved by greater attention to cyclical factors among her categories, but it remains an important contribution. Her interesting case study demonstrates how her system can be applied.
Issues in the Development, Practice, Training, and Research of Integrative Therapies
Authors: Lampropoulos Georgios K.
Published: April 2014

This commentary on the integrative case study of Ms. Q by Barbara Ingram (2009) aims to discuss relevant theoretical, clinical, research, and training issues in the development and practice of integrative/eclectic psychotherapy models. It begins with a description of the contributions and position of Ingram’s model within the current psychotherapy integration literature. It then examines issues in the development and practice of psychotherapy integration approaches, and concludes by highlighting the urgent need for research on the effectiveness and training in integrative practices in naturalistic clinical settings.
"A New Therapy for Each Patient": Integrative Case Formulation and Treatment in the Case of Ms. Q
Authors: Grinfeld Lisa
Published: April 2014

Ingram's (2009) case history of Ms. Q demonstrates how an integrative model can be used to tailor the treatment approach to the individual client. Ms. Q is a married mother in her mid-thirties who seeks help for difficulties balancing career goals and family relationships, whose only diagnoses fall under DSM-IV V-Code categories. This commentary focuses on issues salient to clinicians in training, including (a) the pressure to choose a theoretical orientation, (b) the complexities of choosing a treatment approach for any individual client, and (c) the relationship between discrete symptoms and general problems of living. I also address Ingram's (2009) case formulation and treatment model in the context of current theories of psychotherapy integration.
Between Manualized Treatments and Principle-Guided Psychotherapy: Illustration in the Case of Caroline
Authors: Kramer Ueli
Published: April 2014

My case study of "Caroline"—a 26 year old presenting with depression, PTSD symptoms, and a history of sexual abuse as a teenager—represents a "third way" between (1) a strict adherence to a manualized treatment, and (2) a principle-guided therapy, in which the therapy follows particular theoretical concepts, but depends on the therapist’s clinical judgement to flexibly apply them to the individual case. Specifically, in my therapy with Caroline (Kramer, 2009), I employed Foa and Rothbaum’s (1998) cognitive-behavioral, "Prolonged Exposure" (PE) manual for PTSD, but deviated from it in certain ways based upon my evaluation of Caroline’s individualized goals and reactions using Grawe and Caspar’s "Plan Analysis," which is a cross-theoretical model for assessment and treatment planning. In their commentaries on my case study of Caroline, Caspar (2009) and Haldimann-Balli (see Appendix in Kramer, 2009) support my use of this third way. On the other hand, the other commentators—Muller (2009) and Hembree and Brinen (2009)—critique my handling of the case, arguing that strict adherence to the Foa and Rothbaum manual would have resulted in a more cost-effective therapy. In this article, I respond to the important issues raised by the four commentators.
Logical Operations in Theory-Building Case Studies
Authors: Stiles William B.
Published: April 2014

The logical operations involved in theory-building case studies include deduction (logical consistency and interconnection), induction (applying observations to theory), and abduction (creating, refining, and elaborating theory). The product of theory-building research is an account of a phenomenon in the form of words and other signs. Scientific quality control on theory is accomplished by comparing theoretical statements with observations.  In case studies, detailed case observations are compared to detailed clinical theories. Stable meanings of terms and logical (deductive) interconnection allow empirical (inductive) observations on one tenet of a theory to affect confidence in other tenets. Researchers creatively modify their theories by (abductively) adding to them or altering them so that they correspond to accumulating observations. In this way, observations on cases permeate the theories, so that the words of the theory convey the accumulated experience of previous researchers.
On Systematizing Theory-Building Case Studies
Authors: Nathan Peter E.
Published: April 2014

Bill Stiles wants to enhance the reliability and the utility of theory-building case studies. To do so, he proposes a systematic, replicable approach to clinical case materials that to date has been difficult to use systematically. At the core of his proposal is what he calls “logical operations,” which include some familiar elements of logic: deduction, induction, and abduction. While not without problems in concept and execution, Stiles’ proposal offers those who want to use theory-building case studies in their own work the prospect of an empirically-based analytic tool in a field that has not to this time had one.
The Logic of Theory and the Logic of Practice
Authors: Miller Ronald B.
Published: April 2014

Stiles (2009) has articulated a powerful argument for the surprising logical parallels between the way a case study and experimental data test a scientific theory in the field of psychotherapy. Though this contradicts the orthodox account of research methods in psychology, Stiles shows that careful attention to the tenets of  logical positivist and neo-positivist philosophy of science requires such a conclusion. While this is no doubt a sound argument, it rests on Stiles assumption that theories of psychotherapy are essentially scientific theories. It is clear that Stiles thinks of theories of psychotherapy as different from theories in the physical sciences, but exactly how these theories are different is not clearly articulated. I would argue that psychotherapy theories are fundamentally moral theories, a form of what Aristotle referred to as phronesis, and as such are radically different than scientific theories. Nevertheless, Stiles’ conclusion is a sound one: case studies are the best way to test phronesis in psychotherapy because as Aristotle observed, practical wisdom is highly context dependent and action oriented.
Logic, Hermeneutics, or Both?
Authors: Rennie David L.
Published: April 2014

Stiles’ (2009) thesis that logical operations can be employed in case studies making them contributory to theory-building is examined in the light of methodical hermeneutics. The assimilation model of psychotherapeutic change developed by Stiles and colleagues is used to demonstrate the utility of this alternative framework. The question is raised of whether the case-study research conducted by Stiles et al. illustrates theory-building as Stiles claims or instead illustrates his concept of enriching research. In terms of logical operations, it is pointed out that in order for Stiles’ uptake of C.S. Peirce’s theory of inference to work, it is necessary to take into account how that theory has been has been modified to fit with qualitative research. Throughout, the epistemological positions of Stiles’ experiential correspondence theory of truth versus methodical hermeneutics are considered.
Key Facets in Felix's Case: The Therapist's Cultural Competency, Masculine Socialization, and Sexual Orientation Stigma
Authors: Glassgold Judith M.
Published: April 2014

Commentaries on the case of Felix (Glassgold, 2009) by Bedoya and Safren (2009) and Pachankis (2009) add importantly to a discussion of the key issues that Felix’s case typifies. Specifically, the commentators, respectively, focus on key issues in Felix’s case: the role of cultural competency in treating a case like Felix, who presents with a dual minority status of being Latino and gay; and the role of masculine socialization, sexual orientation stigma, and identity that play out in this type of client. Throughout my response to the commentaries, I keep in mind the interface of intrapsychic and social-cultural dynamics that are reflected in a case like Felix’s.
"Back to the Future": Narrative Treatment for Post-Traumatic, Acute Stress Disorder in the Case of Paramedic Mr. G
Authors: Palgi Yuval , Ben-Ezra Menachem
Published: April 2014

This is a case study of the successful treatment of Mr. G. A young paramedic in the Israeli army, Mr. G had recently experienced a severe traumatic event that involved the grisly task of carrying a terrorist's body parts past a dangerous border, while fearing capture or injury. Two days following the event, Mr. G appeared at our Clinic manifesting Acute Stress Disorder (ASD), which included post-traumatic stress symptoms like recurrent, upsetting images of the event; sleep disturbance; dissociation; somatic complaints like vomiting; and difficulty in returning to the military. In assessing and treating Mr. G's problems, we employed a new narrative therapy model that we call "Back to the Future" (named after the American movie), since the approach emphasizes jumping narratively between the past and the future in order to treat the trauma in the present.
Prepared and Still Surprised
Authors: Palgi Yuval , Ben-Ezra Menachem
Published: April 2014

Farnsworth and Sewell (2010) and Currier (2010) have provided commentaries on our case study of paramedic Mr. G, who was suffering from Acute Distress Disorder and whom we treated employing our "Back to the Future" therapy (BFT) model. These authors identify and discuss a number of important issues raised by our case study. In this response to their commentaries, we focus on three of their important points: how the therapist balances directive versus collaborative roles in working within the BFT model; whether in therapy to address or not to address the "traumatic nucleus" of an ASD victim's initial memories of a traumatic experience; and the types of clients for whom the BFT model is particularly applicable. Our responses to these issues are designed to generally illuminate the BFT model, to make it more applicable for much-needed further research study, and to provide additional guidance for clinicians considering whether and how to employ it with their clients.
Dissolution of "The Committee": Mentalization and Psychic Transformation in the Case Of Olav
Authors: Malitzky Max S.
Published: April 2014

Stalsett, Engedal, and Austad's (2010) case study of Olav demonstrates how a treatment integrating the insights and techniques from a wide variety of traditions helped resolve the symptoms in a man with treatment resistant, psychotic depression and a host of underlying personality problems. This commentary focuses on highlighting the change in Olav's ability to mentalize and consequently to begin to transform his deeply held representations of self and object.
Reflections on Olav's Therapy: The Roles of Religious Experience, Self Psychology, and Mentalization
Authors: Stalsett Gry , Engedal Leif Gunnar , Austad Arne
Published: April 2014

Commentaries on the case study of Olav (Stalsett, Engedal & Austad, 2010) by Richards (2010), Jones (2010), and Malitzky (2010) identify and discuss a number of key issues associated with the case study, including the study's scientific value, the importance of religious experience in relation to psychopathology and psychotherapy, and the roles of self-psychology, attachment, and mentalization in the therapy change process. In our response to the commentaries, we address these issues. We conclude that all of the perspectives reviewed help to explain the factors that contributed to Olav's success in our VITA treatment program. This multi-perspectival approach was supported by one of the core principles of VITA: the creation of a "culture of inquiry," which specifically helped Olav to experience and regulate his intense negative affects and to understand and integrate his dialectically opposed visions of God and spirituality from a variety of points of view and within a diversity of therapeutic activities.