bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Evolution of Representation in Simple Cognitive Networks
Authors: Marstaller Lars , Hintze Arend , Adami Christoph
Published: May 2013

Representations are internal models of the environment that can provide guidance to a behaving agent, even in the absence of sensory information. It is not clear how representations are developed and whether they are necessary or even essential for intelligent behavior. We argue here that the ability to represent relevant features of the environment is the expected consequence of an adaptive process, give a formal definition of representation based on information theory, and quantify it with a measure R. To measure how R changes over time, we evolve two types of networks—an artificial neural network and a network of hidden Markov gates—to solve a categorization task using a genetic algorithm. We find that the capacity to represent increases during evolutionary adaptation and that agents form representations of their environment during their lifetime. This ability allows the agents to act on sensorial inputs in the context of their acquired representations and enables complex and context-dependent behavior. We examine which concepts (features of the environment) our networks are representing, how the representations are logically encoded in the networks, and how they form as an agent behaves to solve a task. We conclude that R should be able to quantify the representations within any cognitive system and should be predictive of an agent's long-term adaptive success.
Exploitation of Pairwise Class Distances for Ordinal Classification
Authors: Sánchez-Monedero J. , Gutiérrez Pedro A. , Tiňo Peter , Hervás-Martínez C.
Published: May 2013

Ordinal classification refers to classification problems in which the classes have a natural order imposed on them because of the nature of the concept studied. Some ordinal classification approaches perform a projection from the input space to one-dimensional (latent) space that is partitioned into a sequence of intervals (one for each class). Class identity of a novel input pattern is then decided based on the interval its projection falls into. This projection is trained only indirectly as part of the overall model fitting. As with any other latent model fitting, direct construction hints one may have about the desired form of the latent model can prove very useful for obtaining high-quality models. The key idea of this letter is to construct such a projection model directly, using insights about the class distribution obtained from pairwise distance calculations. The proposed approach is extensively evaluated with 8 nominal and ordinal classifiers methods, 10 real-world ordinal classification data sets, and 4 different performance measures. The new methodology obtained the best results in average ranking when considering three of the performance metrics, although significant differences are found for only some of the methods. Also, after observing other methods of internal behavior in the latent space, we conclude that the internal projections do not fully reflect the intraclass behavior of the patterns. Our method is intrinsically simple, intuitive, and easily understandable, yet highly competitive with state-of-the-art approaches to ordinal classification.
Church Immunities in Practice during the Reign of Ivan IV
Authors: Halperin Charles J.
Published: May 2013

This article examines the dynamic and interactive relationship between the central governmental authorities in Moscow and regional church institutions, especially monasteries, during Ivan IV’s reign (1533-1584). This relationship is plainly visible in the texts of immunity charters—official exemptions from taxes or other fees exacted on churches, monasteries, and entire tracts of land. Based on the complete corpus of surviving immunity charters, this article demonstrate that regional officials sometimes violated these charters by collecting taxes and fees from persons or institutions that were supposed to be exempt from them, but that these abuses prompted immediate and stern responses from the tsar’s officials and clerics affected by these infractions, and by central authorities in (sometimes) distant Moscow. The disputes over these immunities generated a lively crisscrossing dialogue between church and state officials in the provinces and in the capital, showing the links between the Muscovite center and periphery.
A View from the Pew: Lay Orthodox Christian Perspectives on American Religious Diversity*
Authors: Slagle Amy A.
Published: May 2013

This study offers an analysis of how Orthodox Christians in America today grapple on a daily basis with the pluralism of the American religious landscape. Based on interviews conducted with converts and “cradle Orthodox” in the Greek, Ukrainian, Carpatho-Russian, and American (Orthodox Church in America) Churches, Slagle constructs an image of the imagined and actual worldviews of Orthodox practitioners in Southwest Pennsylvania and Northern Ohio—a region of the US with dense and well-establish Orthodox communities. Slagle finds a range of exclusivist and inclusivist attitudes among the Orthodox she interviewed—some practitioners seeing in Orthodoxy the lone true faith, while others situating the church in a larger, pluralistic environment. This study offers a close-up view of how Orthodox Americans view themselves and their larger religious contexts, and how the Church’s teachings, culture, liturgical life, and history inform and shape these widely varying views.
Trials of the Unorthodox Orthodox: The Followers of Brother Ioann Churikov and Their Critics in Modern Russia, 1894-1914
Authors: Herrlinger Page
Published: May 2013

A pious Orthodox peasant from Samara province who moved to St. Petersburg in mid-1890s, “Brother Ioann” (Ivan Alekseevich Churikov, 1861-1933?), always believed himself to be a faithful son of the church, but his flamboyant public preaching against the ills of alcohol ultimately led to his excommunication in 1914. Naturally gifted as a preacher, Brother Ioann regularly attracted thousands of listeners to his Sunday prayer meetings, the vast majority of whom were simple working people, suffering the devastating effects of alcoholism and the chronic insecurities associated with poverty. Debates over his relationship to the Orthodox tradition began almost as soon has he appeared in St. Petersburg, and over time, he suffered imprisonment in an insane asylum and faced a range of serious charges. Drawing on published and archival sources, this article explores the ongoing and increasingly bitter debate between leading members of the Church and Churikov’s followers between 1910 and 1914. By illuminating the central points of conflict and the competing visions of Orthodoxy at work in the Churikov case, it reflects more broadly upon the nature of the contemporary crisis within the Russian Orthodox Church, particularly with respect to issues of religious and spiritual authority.
LDL Oxidation and Its Association With Carotid Artery Intima-Media Thickness and Other Cardiovascular Risk Factors in a Sample of Spanish General Population
Authors: Calmarza Pilar , Trejo José María , Lapresta Carlos , López Pilar
Published: May 2013

We studied the association between oxidized low-density lipoproteins (OxLDLs) and early atherosclerosis, assessed by carotid artery intima-media thickness (cIMT), as well as with other known atherosclerosis risk factors in a sample of the general middle- and old-age population of Burgos (Spain). Circulating OxLDL showed a significant and independent association with the average cIMT of both carotid arteries but not with the absence or presence of ≥1 carotid atheroma plaques. Plasma OxLDL concentrations were associated with age, smoking, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and triglycerides, independently of other variables. Our findings in an asymptomatic sample representative of the Spanish middle- and old-age population underscore the role of OxLDL in early atherosclerosis represented by the cIMT especially in older asymptomatic individuals, but this cannot be extended to more advanced atherosclerosis, represented by carotid plaques.
The relationship between psychosocial functioning and resilience and negative symptoms in individuals at ultra-high risk for psychosis
Authors: Kim Kyung Ran , Song Yun Young , Park Jin Young , Lee Eun Hye , Lee Mikyung , Lee Su Young , Kang Jee In , Lee Eun , Yoo Sang Woo , An Suk Kyoon , Kwon Jun Soo
Published: May 2013

Objective:

Decline in psychosocial functioning seems to be a core feature in schizophrenia across various phases of the disorder. Little is known about the relationship between psychosocial functioning and protective factors or psychopathologies in individuals in the prodrome phase of psychosis. We aimed to investigate whether psychosocial functioning is impaired in individuals in the putative prodromal phase of schizophrenia, and, if so, to identify factors associated with compromised psychosocial functioning.

Method:

Sixty participants at ultra-high risk (UHR) for psychosis and 47 healthy controls were recruited. All subjects were assessed in terms of psychosocial functioning using the Quality of Life Scale. A clinical assessment of psychopathology and protective factors, including resilience and coping style, was also conducted.

Results:

Psychosocial functioning in UHR participants was found to be compromised; this dysfunction was associated with negative symptoms, adaptive coping, and resilience. In addition, baseline resilience was lower among those in the UHR group who converted to frank psychosis than among those who did not.

Conclusions:

These findings imply that treatment strategies for individuals at UHR for psychosis should be comprehensive, promoting resilience as well as targeting the reduction of positive and negative symptoms to foster social reintegration and recovery.
Incidence of Serious Bacterial Infections in Febrile Children With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Bansil Nelson H. , Kim Tommy Y. , Tieu Linh , Barcega Besh
Published: May 2013

Objective. To determine the incidence of serious bacterial infections in febrile children with sickle cell disease and to describe the outcomes of children discharged from the pediatric emergency department. Methods. We conducted a retrospective chart review of 188 febrile patients with sickle cell disease presenting to our pediatric emergency department over a 10-year period. Serious bacterial infection was defined as bacteremia, meningitis, urinary tract infection, osteomyelitis, or pneumonia. Results. Our overall incidence rate for serious bacterial infections was 16.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 10.8% to 21.2%). Pneumonia had the highest incidence rate of 13.8% (95% CI = 8.8% to 18.8%). This was followed by bacteremia and urinary tract infections, both with incidence rates of 1.1% (95% CI = 0.0% to 2.5%). We had no cases of meningitis or osteomyelitis in our study group. Conclusion. We had an incidence of 16.0% for serious bacterial infections in febrile children with sickle cell disease, with the majority of patients diagnosed with pneumonia.
Culture Matters When Designing a Successful Happiness-Increasing Activity
Authors: Layous Kristin , Lee Hyunjung , Choi Incheol , Lyubomirsky Sonja
Published: May 2013

Research shows that performing positive activities, such as expressing gratitude and doing acts of kindness, boosts happiness. But do specific positive activities work equally well across cultures? Our study examined the role of culture–activity fit by testing two positive activities across two cultures. Participants from the United States ( n = 250) and South Korea ( n = 270) were randomly assigned to express gratitude, perform kind acts, or engage in a neutral activity for the first half of a 6-week positive activity intervention. Multilevel growth modeling analyses revealed that the effect of practicing gratitude or kindness was moderated by culture: U.S. participants increased in well-being (WB) from both activities, γ11 = 0.19, SE = 0.06, t(511) = 3.04, p = .0006; γ12= 0.11, SE = 0.06, t(511) = 1.73, p = .03 (compared with the control group), but South Korean participants benefited significantly less from practicing gratitude than did U.S. participants, γ13 = −0.24, SE = 0.07, t(511) = −3.36, p = .002. South Korean participants, however, showed similar increases in WB as did U.S. participants when performing kind acts, γ14 = −0.06, SE = 0.07, t(511) = −0.82, ns. Finally, although greater self-reported effort yielded significantly larger increases in WB for U.S. participants, the effect of effort was not as strong for South Korean participants. We posit that, due to their dialectical philosophical tradition, South Koreans might have been more prone to feel mixed emotions (e.g., indebtedness and gratitude) while engaging in the gratitude letter activity than did U.S. participants.
Response to R. Keith Sawyer
Authors: Greve Jens
Published: May 2013

R. Keith Sawyer rightly claimed that the formulation of several cross-level regularities does not disprove the “autonomy” of sciences. Nevertheless, first, this autonomy becomes gradual because cross-level regularities narrow the scope for strong emergence and, second, these examples do not disprove the metaphysical premises of Kim’s critique. Sawyer and I concur on the thesis according to which the proof of strong emergence is in part an empirical question. However, it also depends on the concept of individualism applied whether a description or explanation can count as reducible or not. Even if some of the examples given might leave open the possibility of strong emergence, to generalize, to consider relations or to point to the unpredictability of social processes do not prove the existence of irreducible multiple realization.
Information Warfare?
Authors: Chong Alan
Published: May 2013

While information warfare (IW) has been treated by its foremost western proponents as a strategic revolution, the reasons for such a claim are actually rather weak if one considers how non-western approaches to the informational components of warfare have put forth their positions within a multidimensional context of strategy. This article ventures an Asian perspective that can potentially offer a more nuanced contribution to the study of IW. This article will pan out by first critically analyzing the predominantly American interpretation of IW as a set of five characteristics that can be contrasted to an Asian rival. Subsequently, we will elaborate a list of features likely to characterize a generic Asian IW approach, which I will argue, is more appropriately termed information operations (IO). These Asian IO features will be teased out through a reading of Sun Tzu, Mao Zedong, and Vo Nguyen Giap. An Asian IO approach will not distinguish wartime and peacetime applications, and neither will it place a premium on liberal democratic ideology as a basis for information superiority.
Teaching Clinical (and Nonclinical) Psychology Through Applications to the Legal System
Authors: Costanzo Marina L. , Costanzo Mark A.
Published: May 2013

The prediction of dangerousness and the insanity defense are two areas where psychologists provide research-based expertise to the courts. Teachers of psychology can use these topics to capture the attention of students and to show how psychological research and theory can inform and influence the legal system. Specifically, teachers can use the issue of violence risk assessment to teach basic statistical concepts, the low base rate problem, the limits of long-term behavior prediction, and the superiority of scientific approaches over intuitive approaches. Teachers can use the issue of the insanity defense to show students how clinical psychologists and the legal system differ in their conceptions of mental disorder, how attributions about intentionality drive sentencing decisions, and how modern conceptions of “free will” informed by cognitive neuroscience challenge fundamental assumptions of the criminal justice system. The topics of risk assessment and the insanity defense can stimulate student discussion by linking basic psychological concepts to an area with which students are already familiar: the legal system.
An Analysis of Learning Objectives and Content Coverage in Introductory Psychology Syllabi
Authors: Homa Natalie , Hackathorn Jana , Brown Carrie M. , Garczynski Amy , Solomon Erin D. , Tennial Rachel , Sanborn Ursula A. , Gurung Regan A. R.
Published: May 2013

Introductory psychology is one of the most popular undergraduate courses and often serves as the gateway to choosing psychology as an academic major. However, little research has examined the typical structure of introductory psychology courses. The current study examined student learning objectives (SLOs) and course content in introductory psychology syllabi ( N = 158). SLOs were mapped to the APA Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major. Content analysis was based on the principles for quality undergraduate education promulgated by the American Psychological Association. Over 50% of the syllabi contained objectives specific to the science and application of psychology (knowledge base, research methods, and application). Analysis of content coverage revealed instructors spent significantly more time on topics related to physiological and cognitive psychology and spent significantly less time on topics related to the history and scope of psychology, research methods, and developmental psychology. The current study also explored the influence of instructor specialty area on content coverage.
Cyberbullying and its risk factors among Chinese high school students
Authors: Zhou Zongkui , Tang Hanying , Tian Yuan , Wei Hua , Zhang Fengjuan , Morrison Chelsey M.
Published: May 2013

Cyberbullying has become a common occurrence among adolescents worldwide; however, it has yet to receive adequate scholarly attention in China, especially in the mainland. The present study investigated the epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of cyberbullying, utilizing a sample of 1,438 high school students from central China. Findings revealed that cyberbullying among high school students in the heartland of central China is relatively common with 34.84% ( N = 501) of participants reported having bullied someone and 56.88% ( N = 818) reported having been bullied by online. Significant gender differences were found, suggesting that boys are more likely to be involved in cyberbullying both as perpetrators and victims. Students with lower academic achievement were more likely to be perpetrators online than were students with better academic achievement. Students who spend more time on online, have access to the internet in their bedrooms, have themselves experienced traditional bullying as victims, and are frequently involved in instant-messaging and other forms of online entertainment are more likely to experience cyberbullying. Increased parent and teacher supervision reduced students’ involvement in cyberbullying. Implications for intervention are explored.
The effects of sleep disturbance on school performance: A preliminary investigation of children attending elementary grades
Authors: Reale Laura , Guarnera Manuela , Mazzone Luigi
Published: May 2013

Sleep disorders in children are common. Sleep plays an important role in children’s development and sleep disorders can have a substantial impact on their quality of life. Indeed, sleep is crucial for physical growth, behavior, and emotional development and it is also closely related to cognitive functioning, learning and attention, and therefore to school performance. In the present study sleep habits were investigated in 173 school-age children by using the Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ). Results show that children attending the third elementary grade had higher CSHQ total score, indicating sleep problems, as compared to other classes. Moreover, an inverse correlation was observed between sleep disturbance and school performance ( p < 0.05), meaning that children with sleep problems also have a lower performance at school. Our findings imply that sleep disorders could negatively impact school performance.
Psycho-social dimensions of poverty: When poverty becomes shameful
Authors: Jo Yongmie Nicola
Published: May 2013

This article outlines the significance of shame as a non-material and social dimension of poverty and its potentially devastating impact on people facing economic hardship. Shifting the previously held focus on the individual to the collective in poverty and shame research, it argues for a more comprehensive understanding of the ways in which shame is generated and sustained on a social level within the current historical context and offers theoretical underpinnings with regard to the social construction of poverty-related shame. The article goes on to present implications for social policy by demonstrating the role of cultural and policy institutions in determining the level of shame attached to poverty and how it can be counterproductive to efforts to alleviate poverty and enhance social inclusion.
The Supervision to Aid Reentry (STAR) programme
Authors: Taylor Caitlin J.
Published: May 2013

This article explores a central finding from a process evaluation of a federal reentry court programme entitled the Supervision to Aid Reentry (STAR) programme in Philadelphia, PA, USA. Using inductive and deductive analyses, results revealed that the STAR programme helps participants build social capital by encouraging family involvement as well as the development of relationships among programme participants. Family involvement and relationships among participants were found to offer participants social and emotional support as well as access to felon-friendly employment opportunities.
Does formal assessment of comprehension by SLT agree with teachers’ perceptions of functional comprehension skills in the classroom?
Authors: Purse Katie , Gardner Hilary
Published: May 2013

This study aimed to consider collaborative practice in contributing to joint assessment and producing appropriate referral of children to speech and language therapy (SLT). Results of formal testing of selected comprehension skills are compared with functional/classroom performance as rated by class teachers. Thirty children aged 6.5–8.4 years, from three mainstream schools, were assessed using Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF-4; Semel et al., 2006) subtests: ‘Understanding Spoken Paragraphs’ and ‘Concepts and Directions’. The children’s teachers completed the ‘listening’ component of the Observational Rating Scale. Combined scores for Understanding Spoken Paragraphs and Concepts and Directions subtests are significantly correlated with Observational Rating Scale scores, which reflect teachers’ ratings of comprehension in the classroom. The Concepts and Directions subtest scores alone correlated significantly with the teachers’ Observational Rating Scale ratings, but the Understanding Spoken Paragraphs scores did not. The findings suggest that teachers can fairly accurately identify the level of children’s functioning from informal observations, and these were corroborated through standardized speech and language therapy assessment. It is argued that holistic assessment and collaboration between health and education professionals can provide the basis for appropriate referral and effective assessment, contributing to accurate profiling and monitoring of intervention.
Computed tomography quantitative analysis of components: a new method monitoring the growth of pulmonary nodule
Authors: Linning E , Wu Shan , Wang Kai , Meng Huiqiang , Sun Dong , Wu Zhifeng
Published: May 2013

Background

The estimation of the growth of solitary pulmonary nodules by using non-invasive methods is increasingly gaining clinical importance for performing the timely adequate treatment of these nodules.

Purpose

To evaluate the application value of computed tomography (CT) quantitative analysis of components for dynamic assessment of the growth of solitary pulmonary nodules, and compare this approach with three-dimensional (3D) volumetric measurement of pulmonary nodules.

Material and Methods

The imaging data of 21 patients who had undergone multiple follow-up CT scans for solitary pulmonary nodules were retrospectively analyzed, and the total volume of pulmonary nodules and the percentage change in the total volume of pulmonary nodules after multiple follow-up CT scans were measured using 3D volume measurement software. The volume of solid components in pulmonary nodules was measured using CT quantitative analysis; the percentage change in the volume of solid components across examinations was calculated; and the percentage change in the total volume of pulmonary nodules was compared and contrasted with the percentage change in the volume of solid components in the pulmonary nodules.

Results

All 21 cases were malignant adenocarcinomas. In the 21 cases of malignant nodules, the 3D volumes of the nodules and solid components were both increased, with the percentage change in the volume of the solid components (115.78–418.91%, 130.45 ± 119.48) significantly different from the percentage change in the total volume of the nodules (78.56–105.73% , 42.34 ± 32.17) ( P = 0.02).

Conclusion

By measuring volume changes in solid components in the nodules, CT quantitative analysis offers more sensitive and earlier evaluation of the dynamic growth of the nodules than measurement of volume changes in the nodules alone.
Bone mineral density and geometry parameters determined in vitro from dual-energy digital radiography images in the assessment of bone maximal load of reindeer femora
Authors: Toljamo Päivi S , Pulkkinen Pasi , Lammentausta Eveliina , Tervonen Osmo , Jämsä Timo , Nieminen Miika T
Published: May 2013

Background

Dual-energy digital radiography (DEDR) has been shown to be a potential method to determine bone mineral density (BMD) and predict maximal load with similar accuracy as standard bone densitometry using DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry). In addition to bone density, bone geometry has also been shown to have effect on bone fragility and fracture risk.

Purpose

To examine the combination of BMD and geometry parameters, as determined from a DEDR experiment, to predict bone maximal load.

Material and Methods

Reindeer femora ( n = 47) were imaged at two energies (79 kVp and 100 kVp) using a clinical digital radiography system. BMD was determined in four regions from these images using the DXA calculation principle. Various geometrical parameters were determined from the 79 kVp image. Femora were mechanically tested using axial loading configuration. Pearson correlation coefficients were determined between geometrical parameters and BMDs or maximal load. Multiple stepwise linear regression analysis was used to find the best combination to predict bone maximal load.

Results

From the geometrical parameters, femoral shaft diameter (FSD) and femoral neck axis length (FNAL) correlated best with the maximal load ( r = 0.629 and r = 0.446, P < 0.01, respectively). The best combination of parameters to predict bone fragility was BMD at Ward's triangle, FSD and FNAL ( r = 0.787, P < 0.05), whereas the correlation coefficient between BMD at Ward's triangle and maximal load was 0.653 ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The combination of DEDR-based BMD and geometrical parameters predicts reindeer bone maximal load with reasonable accuracy and the combined analysis improves the prediction of maximal load compared to BMD prediction only.
Evaluation of the relationship between extremity soft tissue sarcomas and adjacent major vessels using contrast-enhanced multidetector CT and three-dimensional volume-rendered CT angiography: a preliminary study
Authors: Li YangKang , Zheng Yu , Lin JianBang , Cai AiQun , Zhou XiuGuo , Wei XiaoLong , Cheng Ying , Liu GuoRui
Published: May 2013

Background

Accurate description of the relationship between extremity soft tissue sarcoma and the adjacent major vessels is crucial for successful surgery. In addition to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or in patients who cannot undergo MRI, two-dimensional (2D) postcontrast computed tomography (CT) images and three-dimensional (3D) volume-rendered CT angiography may be valuable alternative imaging techniques for preoperative evaluation of extremity sarcomas.

Purpose

To preoperatively assess extremity sarcomas using multidetector CT (MDCT), with emphasis on postcontrast MDCT images and 3D volume-rendered MDCT angiography in evaluating the relationship between tumors and adjacent major vessels.

Material and Methods

MDCT examinations were performed on 13 patients with non-metastatic extremity sarcomas. Conventional CT images and 3D volume-rendered CT angiography were evaluated, with focus on the relationship between tumors and adjacent major vessels. Kappa consistency statistics were performed with surgery serving as the reference standard.

Results

The relationship between sarcomas and adjacent vessels was described as one of three patterns: proximity, adhesion, and encasement. Proximity was seen in five cases on postcontrast CT images or in eight cases on volume-rendered images. Adhesion was seen in three cases on both postcontrast CT images and volume-rendered images. Encasement was seen in five cases on postcontrast CT images or in two cases on volume-rendered images. Compared to surgical results, postcontrast CT images had 100% sensitivity, 83.3% specificity, 87.5% positive predictive value, 100% negative predictive value, and 92.3% accuracy in the detection of vascular invasion (κ = 0.843, P = 0.002). 3D volume-rendered CT angiography had 71.4% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value, 75% negative predictive value, and 84.6% accuracy in the detection of vascular invasion (κ = 0.698, P = 0.008). On volume-rendered images, all cases with adhesion or encasement had arterial stenosis and all tumors' feeding arteries were clearly depicted.

Conclusion

2D postcontrast CT images are superior to 3D volume-rendered CT angiography in evaluating the relationship between extremity sarcomas and adjacent major vessels. 3D volume-rendered CT angiography is good at assessing the tumor's blood supply, the longitudinal extent of vascular involvement, and the vascular narrowing due to the tumor.
Electromyographic response of facial nerve stimulation under different levels of neuromuscular blockade during middle-ear surgery
Authors: Choe Won Joo , Kim Jun Hyun , Park Si Young , Kim Jin
Published: May 2013

Objective

To investigate facial nerve monitoring in patients receiving the partial nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs), remifentanil and propofol.

Methods

Patients with normal facial function and advanced middle-ear disease were enrolled. For total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA), propofol and remifentanil were infused as induction/maintenance anaesthesia. Stimulation thresholds and amplitudes were recorded at each train-of-four (TOF) nerve stimulation level. Time differences between start of TOF and electromyographic (EMG) amplitude decreases (Ti), and between complete recovery of TOF and EMG amplitudes (Tr), were calculated.

Results

Fifteen patients were enrolled. Mean ± SD Ti was 3.4 ± 1.28 min; Tr was 18.7 ± 4.41 min. Amplitude of stimulation was apparent mostly at TOF level 1. In most cases, no or a weak response (<100 µV) was observed at TOF 0. Mean ± SD threshold of electrical stimulation was 0.31 ± 0.10 mA at TOF 1. At TOF > 2, all cases showed EMG response on electrical stimulation.

Conclusions

Induction of TIVA using propofol and remifentanil provided reliable conditions for delicate microsurgery. Minimal NMBA use, considered as producing TOF levels >1, was sufficient for facial nerve monitoring in neuro-otological surgery.
Measuring the information content of customer foreign exchange orders
Authors: Rosov Sviatoslav , Foster F. Douglas
Published: May 2013

This paper investigates whether customer order flow conveys information about future foreign exchange (FX) prices. We use a unique data set from a leading Australian commercial bank that records every FX trade made by the bank in the spot Australian dollar/US dollar market between 2005 and 2010. We find little evidence in support of a cointegrating relation or a statistically significant correlation between customer order flow and FX returns. However, consistent with the liquidity provision role of non-financial customers in Evans and Lyons ((2002) Order flow and exchange rate dynamics. Journal of Political Economy 110: 170–180), we find a statistically significant negative correlation between order flow from the diversified economic sector and FX returns. A dynamic analysis suggests that order flow has little or no price impact on FX returns. These results suggest that the non-financial customer order flow of a commercial bank does not carry information about FX prices.
Disclosure incentives, mandatory standards and firm communication in the IFRS adoption setting
Authors: Wee Marvin , Tarca Ann , Chang Millicent
Published: May 2013

We investigate the content, timing and relevance of firms’ narrative disclosure about the effects of IFRS adoption in annual statutory financial statements and firm announcements to the stock exchange for 150 large listed Australian firms in the three-year period surrounding adoption (which occurred from 1 January 2005). We observe communication about changes in financial reports, even when the change relates to accounting rather than economic events. We record more disclosure by firms experiencing an adverse change in earnings, consistent with them being sensitive to signals about future earnings. When economic performance is stronger, firms provide less discussion of the accounting effects of IFRS. We also find the discussion of IFRS impact in both disclosure channels is value–relevant for firms with relatively higher levels of disclosure, providing evidence of the usefulness of transition disclosures.
Background on Work Life in the United Arab Emirates and Other Gulf Countries (Gulf Cooperation Council)
Authors: Bardot Sandrine
Published: May 2013

Compensation & Benefits packages in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, despite some local nuances, follow some common characteristics. Most of the population is made of “expatriates”, mostly hired on local contracts. The local nationals often represent a small fraction of the overall population and tend to work in highly-paid and prestigious government jobs. The local governments are making efforts to promote the employment of their citizens in the private sector, which is often a challenge due to cultural and financial reasons. Packages, even though under local law, are focused on cash and built similarly to international assignee packages: basic pay, various allowances from housing to transportation, education or furniture. Benefits such as pension and subsidized healthcare may be mandated for local Nationals, and more rarely offered to expatriates. Variable pay is less prominent than in Western countries, whether in the form of Short- or Long-Term Incentives.
Employee Benefits in a Nonprofit Organization
Authors: Mazumder Bidhan Chandra , Mazumder Mita
Published: May 2013

Every concern should ensure proper administration of social security programs. In Chittagong University, employee benefits are controlled by University rules and regulations, which are framed in line with the policy of the Government of Bangladesh. It is a public university having an autonomous character. Both in-service (or active) and retirement benefits are provided to employees. Some nonmonetary benefits are also provided during the active period, including basic salary, house rent, medical allowance, bonus, book allowance, medical and other loans and retirement benefits. The latter include provident fund, gratuity/pension benefits, group insurance, leave payments, benevolent fund and so on. Nonmonetary benefits generally include medical care, subsidized transport, leave without pay and so on. This article confirms that employees are satisfied with the benefits, but the impression of their experience when they apply for retirement benefits is somewhat negative and their concerns need to be addressed.
Community Foundation Strategy
Authors: Millesen Judith L. , Martin Eric C.
Published: May 2013

This research provides detailed descriptive information about decision-making behaviors and processes of community foundation boards. Our study responds to Graddy and Morgan’s (2006) call for research that examines how community foundation leadership (board and staff) affects strategic direction. We provide an understanding of how community foundation boards interpret organizational and environmental realities while balancing what has been described in the literature as “competing” mission-related objectives among donors, recipients, and the community. We find decision making to be influenced by three powerful forces; fear, tradition, and serendipity.
Study on functional specification scheme on interface based on positioning features
Authors: Cao Yanlong , Zhang Heng , Li Bo , Wu Zijian , Yang Jiangxin
Published: May 2013

This article proposes a scheme for functional specification in accordance with the new generation of geometrical product specification. The scheme is to decompose a geometrical functional requirement on a complex mechanism into geometric specifications defined on key parts. The assembly is analyzed by graph theory. The general geometrical functional requirement is analyzed and decomposed if necessary, with geometrical tolerances specified on ending parts. Then geometric variation model is built according to the invariant degree of freedom of both datum reference system and tolerance zone, which is subsequently used to validate the sufficiency of the datum reference frame on positioning features, thereby inferring joints that perform key roles in affecting function. After a series of topological rules formulated and validation algorithm applied, datum reference system is validated and detailed specifications are generated on joint surfaces. Those specifications on underlying parts or subassemblies are then defined as new geometrical functional requirements and should be further developed. Therefore, the designer can carry out an effective recursive approach capable of realizing each geometric specification on key features while ensuring functional tolerancing of the entire assembly. A case study is given to validate the proposed method.
Development of a PISO-SPH method for computing incompressible flows
Authors: Tayebi Ali , Dehkordi Behzad Ghadiri
Published: May 2013

A new algorithm is proposed for solving the time-dependent Navier-Stokes equations in a sequential uncoupled manner. The algorithm, known as PISO (Pressure Implicit with Splitting of Operators) is extended to the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) context (PISO-SPH). The algorithm consists of one prediction and two correction steps, based on a full Navier-Stokes equation, therefore, a modified Poisson equation is derived which makes the algorithm more stable with less pressure fluctuations. The proposed PISO-SPH method is applied to solve a number of benchmark problems including both unsteady and steady state test cases. Comparing the results with analytical solutions and other numerical methods, it is shown that the proposed method is accurate and straightforward for the simulation of incompressible fluid flows.
An algorithm for parameter estimation of twin-rotor multi-input multi-output system using trust region optimization methods
Authors: Moness Mohammed , Mostafa Ahmed M
Published: May 2013

The twin-rotor, multi-input, multi-output system is a typical lab-scale helicopter system, since it resembles behavior of helicopter systems. This experimental complex aerodynamic test rig needs precise modeling to assure satisfactory control performance. Therefore, this article is intended to provide a gray-box approach for the modeling of the twin-rotor, multi-input, multi-output system. An algorithm is proposed by dividing the system into independent subsystems that can be estimated for an excitation input or a characteristic response. The proposed algorithm uses trust region optimization methods for successive estimations. The iterative optimization methods of Levenberg–Marquardt, gradient descent active set, and interior point are compared with respect to trust region methods. The model is validated with various sets of scenarios: different inputs, different types of motion, and different operating points. Effect of operating point selection on the parameter estimation process is investigated. Time domain response comparison of the single-degree-of-freedom vertical, single-degree-of-freedom horizontal, and two-degrees-of-freedom models are acceptable.
A Holocene paleoclimate reconstruction for eastern Canada based on δ18O cellulose of Sphagnum mosses from Mer Bleue Bog
Authors: Bilali Hafida El , Patterson R Timothy , Prokoph Andreas
Published: May 2013

We present a ~9200 yr high-resolution oxygen isotope record of plant cellulose (δ18Ocel) from the peat deposits of Mer Bleue Bog, Ontario and apply it as a proxy for paleotemperature reconstruction in Eastern Canada. The results show that δ18Ocel of Sphagnum follows the general pattern of the Northern Hemisphere reconstructed paleotemperature record for the last 2000 years at a ratio of ~2‰δ18Ocel/°C. The δ18Ocel record of ombrotrophic phase of Mer Bleue Bog is also in accordance with major features of the Holocene sunspot number reconstruction. Three distinct time intervals have low δ18Ocel values: 200–800 cal. BP (‘Little Ice Age’); 2800–3400 cal. BP synchronous to a cooling period reported elsewhere in North America; and 4200–4600 cal. BP corresponding to a cooling interval in the North Atlantic region. These cooling periods also correlate well with negative excursions in the Holocene sunspot and cosmogenic 10Be records. A fourth period of low δ18Ocel values between ad 1810 and 1820 may be related to the extremely cold summer of 1816 and cooler subsequent years, which occurred in the aftermath of the Tambora volcanic eruption, or possibly cooling associated with the early 19th century Dalton solar minimum. The results also indicate the presence of millennial-scale cycles possibly comparable with the globally recognized Bond cycles that have been correlated to fluctuations in solar irradiance.
Pain and depression predict self-reported fatigue/energy in lupus
Authors: Moldovan I , Cooray D , Carr F , Katsaros E , Torralba K , Shinada S , Ishimori M , Jolly M , Wilson A , Wallace D , Weisman M , Nicassio P
Published: May 2013

This study examined the contribution of pain and psychological distress to fatigue.

Methods

One-hundred and twenty-five adult Caucasian and Hispanic lupus patients participated in this study. Demographic data, patient- and physician-reported disease activity, as well as psychological functioning, were collected. Fatigue, pain, and vitality were measured using visual analogue scales as well as a subscale of the SF-36 questionnaire. Linear and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted. In the regression analysis, ethnicity was entered at the first step, followed by age, income and education at step 2, pain and disease activity measures at step 3, and psychological measurements at step 4.

Results

In the linear regression analysis, Caucasians reported more fatigue. Fatigue positively correlated with income, education, pain, patient-reported disease activity, helplessness, and depression, and negatively with internality, and the energy analysis mirrored the results of the fatigue analysis. In the first regression analysis, fatigue was the dependent variable. At step 1, Caucasians reported more fatigue. At step 2, no other demographic variables were significant. At step 3, pain and disease activity measures were significant when entered as a block; however, pain independently explained a large amount of variance. At step 4, psychological factors were significant as a block, with depression being the strongest predictor. In the second analysis, energy was the dependent variable. At step 1, Hispanics reported more energy. At step 2, demographic variables were not significant. At step 3, pain and disease activity were significant when entered as a block; however, only pain uniquely predicted energy. At step 4, psychological factors were significant as a block, with depression as the major contributor.

Conclusions

Both pain and depression were found to be strong predictors of fatigue, and negatively correlated with energy. Disease activity did not appear to play a significant role in lupus fatigue. These findings support the importance of managing depression and pain in order to reduce fatigue in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.
A Box Full of Darkness
Authors: Boyce-Tillman June
Published: May 2013

This paper is based on a piano piece commissioned by the British and Ireland School of Feminist Theology (BISFT) for its anniversary conference. It interrogates the situations in which the sections of the piece were created through the lens of conceptions of failure. It explores religious experience and identity in mental health contexts and the development of groups associated with Feminist Theology over the past 20 years. It examines the repression of the feminine, the place of anger in religion and therapy and its relation to a theology of the crucifixion and the processes of forgiveness. It integrates poetry into its text and sets out the role of the arts in process theology.
Sacraments as Energy: A Search For a New Paradigm
Authors: Roll Susan K.
Published: May 2013

This article seeks to overcome some of the greatest difficulties in generating a feminist-friendly approach to sacraments by proposing a new paradigm: sacraments as forms of energy. Several factors have hindered feminist theologians in revisioning sacramentality. For the most part sacraments were ‘done to’ women, never ‘done by’ women. A too-literal reading of the Christian scriptures blurs the fact that early Christians developed ritual patterns for Baptism and Eucharist first, and only later wrote them down. To speak of sacraments as mediations may re-inscribe dualism. The static model of reality which explained sacraments in Aristotelian categories of matter and form has given way to dynamic models of matter and energy.

A sacramentality of energy can be articulated from three different angles: first, in terms of the action of the Holy Spirit; second, from scientific advances in quantum thinking, and the third from new spirituality. This paradigm applies to both Baptism and Eucharist.
Urban shrinkage as an emerging concern for European policymaking
Authors: Haase Annegret , Athanasopoulou Alexandra , Rink Dieter
Published: May 2013

Across Europe, urban shrinkage has become an important phenomenon. According to recent studies, almost 42 % of all large European cities are currently shrinking, the largest number of them being situated in Eastern Europe. Across Europe, shrinkage affects all types of regions; in a way, Europe has become a shrinking continent. Shrinkage is not only a problem of larger cities, but has, in fact, become one of several pathways for European urban and rural development. Given the context that the European Commission’s ambition is to create prosperous, attractive and sustainable cities, they are expected to create equilibrium between population and employment opportunities, provide clean, safe, sustainable environments and avoid social exclusion. Set against this background, the commentary discusses the challenge that urban shrinkage brings about for European policymaking. It addresses especially issues of urban governance and planning. It draws on recent research on shrinking cities across the European territory. It argues that, on the European level, knowledge about shrinking cities is required; hence, the European Commission should encourage networks of researchers and support mutual exchange between research and urban practice. It argues, too, that there is a great deal of expertise available in some European cities about how to cope with shrinkage and there are other places, throughout Europe, that are in urgent need of this expertise. It finally advocates a stronger voice for the vision of the sustainable, shrinking or shrunk city as a priority of current and future urban policy of the EU.