bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co-Therapy Viewed Developmentally
Authors: Lessler Ken , Dick Bob , Whiteside Jim
Published: July 2017

Co-therapy is observed to be an extensively used service model which, while having supporters, was strongly criticized by Berne and others. The writers propose a four-stage model of the developing co-therapy relationship, based upon their clinical and supervisory experience. Using this model, the criticisms of co-therapy are evaluated and major interpersonal, intrapersonal, and technical foci, energy distributions, and the use of supervision are discussed at each stage of the developing relationship.
Genetic and Neurodevelopmental Influences in Autistic Disorder
Authors: Nicolson Rob , Szatmari Peter
Published: July 2017

Objective:

In the past, autism was considered to be largely psychogenic. However, research in the last 2 decades indicates that autism is largely caused by genetic factors that lead to abnormal brain development. This article reviews research into the genetic and neurodevelopmental factors underlying autism.

Methods:

We review the findings from genetic and brain-imaging studies of autism over the past 15 years and synthesize these findings as a guide for future research.

Results:

Genome scans and association studies have suggested potential genomic regions and genes, respectively, that may be involved in the etiology of autism, and there have been some replications of these results. Similarly, the findings that brain volume is exaggerated in autism and corpus callosum size is reduced have also been independently replicated. Unfortunately, studies of other subcortical structures remain inconclusive or contradictory.

Conclusions:

Overwhelming evidence now supports a neurobiological basis for autism. However, further refinements will be needed to guide future studies, particularly to identify the most informative phenotypes to investigate. Additionally, studies examining the role of genetic factors in the brain abnormalities underlying autism will likely lead to further findings that will enhance our understanding of autism's causes.
Adult Antisocial Behaviour without Conduct Disorder: Demographic Characteristics and Risk for Cooccurring Psychopathology
Authors: Marmorstein Naomi R
Published: July 2017

Objective:

Several studies note people who demonstrate adult antisocial behaviour (AAB) in the absence of conduct disorder (CD) before age 15 years. Perhaps because they do not meet diagnostic criteria for antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), this group of people exhibiting late-onset AAB has been underrecognized and understudied. Thus the goal of this study was to examine the demographic features and patterns of cooccurring psychopathology of people exhibiting late-onset antisocial behaviour (AB; AAB but not CD), compared with people suffering from ASPD (CD and AAB), people suffering from CD but not AAB, and members of a nonantisocial control group.

Method:

This study used the population-based sample of the National Comorbidity Survey (NCS). The demographic features examined were sex, percentage living in poverty, annual income, and years of formal education. The possibly cooccurring diagnoses examined were alcohol abuse and dependence, drug abuse and dependence, major depressive disorder, dysthymia, generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, simple phobia, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and posttraumatic stress disorder.

Results:

About 2.3% of participants exhibited AAB but not CD. These individuals had patterns of demographic characteristics and cooccurring psychiatric disorders quite similar to those of people diagnosed with full ASPD.

Conclusion:

Individuals who demonstrate this pattern of late-onset AB are at levels of risk comparable to those of individuals suffering from ASPD; therefore, they are equally in need of research and clinical attention.
Sexual Function during Bupropion or Paroxetine Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Kennedy Sidney H , Fulton Kari A , Bagby R Michael , Greene Andrea L , Cohen Nicole L , Rafi-Tari Shahryar
Published: July 2017

Objective:

The primary objective was to evaluate sexual function (SF) separately in men and women with major depressive disorder (MDD) before and during treatment with bupropion sustained release (SR) or paroxetine. The secondary objectives involved a comparative evaluation of the Sex Effects Scale (Sex FX) and the Investigator-Rated Sexual Desire and Functioning Scale (IRSD-F), as well as a comparison of antidepressant outcomes and an examination of the relation between level of depression and SF over time.

Method:

There were 141 patients (68 women and 73 men) who met DSM-IV criteria for a current major depressive episode. They were randomly assigned to receive bupropion SR (150 to 300 mg daily) or paroxetine (20 to 40 mg daily) under double-blind trial conditions. Patients were assessed at baseline and at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks with the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS17), Sex FX, and IRSD-F.

Results:

Prior to treatment, women reported significantly lower SF on both the Sex FX and IRSD-F scales, compared with men. During treatment, there were no significant drug differences on measures of SF over time for women; however, men who were treated with paroxetine reported a worsening of SF, whereas bupropion SR did not significantly alter SF. Both bupropion SR and paroxetine produced clinically and statistically significant reductions in HDRS17 scores as well as comparable rates of response and remission. There was a statistically significant correlation between the 2 measures of SF at all visits. There was also a significant inverse relation between depression and SF in women, but not in men, irrespective of drug.

Conclusion:

According to the Sex FX scale, a significant difference in antidepressant-related sexual dysfunction was detected in men, but not women, during treatment with bupropion SR or paroxetine.
Association Study of Astrocyte-Derived Protein S100B Gene Polymorphisms with Major Depressive Disorder in Chinese People
Authors: Yang Kun , Xie Guang-Rong , Hu Yi-Qiu , Mao Fu-Qiang , Su Lin-Yan
Published: July 2017

Objective:

Astroglial-derived protein S100B is known to play important roles in axonal growth, neural plasticity, and energy regulation. Disturbance of these neurodevelopmental processes is proposed as one possible etiology for mood disorder. Therefore, we performed a genetic analysis of S100B in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Method:

The polymorphisms of S100B were determined by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism in patients ( n = 152) with MDD and healthy control subjects ( n = 150). The genotypic and allelic distributions of 2 variants were analyzed in Chinese patients.

Results:

Two single nucleotide polymorphisms did not display significant associations with MDD. However, there were significant differences in age of onset in 3 genotypes of S100B rs9722. Significant differences in the subgroup depression (first-episode and recurrent depression) were also shown in 3 genotypes of S100B rs9722 and rs11911834 in patients and control subjects ( P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Our findings did not suggest association of S100B gene polymorphisms in patients with MDD in China. We found there were differences in depressive episodes among different genotypes of S100B gene.
Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders: A Review of the Evidence-Based Treatments
Authors: Ravindran Arun V , da Silva Tricia L , Ravindran Lakshmi N , Richter Margaret A , Rector Neil A
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To provide a review of the evidence-based treatments for Obsessive-Compulsive spectrum disorders (OCSD), a group of conditions related to Obsessive-Compulsive disorder (OCD) by phenomenological and etiological similarities, the morbidity of which is increasingly recognized.

Method:

Literature relating to the following disorders: body dysmorphic disorder, hypochondriasis, trichotillomania, onychophagia, psychogenic excoriation, compulsive buying, kleptomania, and pathological gambling, and published between January 1965 and October 2007, was found using PubMed. Included in this review were 107 treatment reports.

Results:

Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) have shown benefits as first-line, short-term treatments for body dysmorphic disorder, hypochondriasis, onychophagia, and psychogenic excoriation, with some benefits in trichotillomania, pathological gambling, and compulsive buying. There are also suggested benefits for several atypical antipsychotics in disorders with a high degree of impulsivity, including trichotillomania and pathological gambling, and to a lesser extent, kleptomania and psychogenic excoriation. Cognitive-behavioural interventions have generally shown evidence for use as first-line treatment across the spectrum, with some variability in degree of benefit.

Conclusions:

As in OCD, several conditions in the proposed OCSD benefit from SRIs and (or) cognitive-behavioural interventions. However, the treatment literature is generally limited, and more randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to evaluate individual and combination treatments, for short-term use and as maintenance.
Mechanisms Underlying the Comorbidity of Tobacco Use in Mental Health and Addictive Disorders
Authors: Morisano Dominique , Bacher Ingrid , Audrain-McGovern Janet , George Tony P
Published: July 2017

We discuss potential explanations for the high prevalence of tobacco use and tobacco dependence (TD) in people with mental health and addictive (MHA) disorders. The biopsychosocial basis for this comorbidity is presented, integrating evidence from epidemiologic and clinical studies. We also review evidence that suggests a shared vulnerability related to biological, genetic, and environmental factors may be the most parsimonious mechanism to explain the association between TD and MHA disorders. Finally, we review the examples of various MHA disorders that are associated with TD, and suggest avenues for new investigation that could aid in the development of rationale and more effective treatments for tobacco and MHA disorder comorbidities.
Mood and Anxiety Disorders and the Use of Services and Psychotropic Medication in an Immigrant Population: Findings from the Israel National Health Survey
Authors: Ponizovsky Alexander M , Grinshpoon Alexander
Published: July 2017

Objective:

Using the Israel National Health Survey (INHS), we compared immigrants' 12-month prevalence of mental disorders and the use of services and psychotropic drugs with that of the general population.

Methods:

A representative sample of noninstitutionalized residents, aged 21 years and older, was drawn from the National Population Register. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) disorders were assessed using a revised version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Respondents were asked to report any health service and psychotropic drug use in the past 12 months.

Results:

During the 12 months preceding the INHS, immigrants and Israelis (that is, those born in Israel or those who emigrated to Israel before 1989) were equally likely to have a common mental disorder (OR 0.9; 95% CI 0.7 to 1.1) and to use health services (OR 0.9; 95% CI 0.7 to 1.2). However, among respondents who did not meet the DSM-IV criteria for a specific mental disorder, the immigrants reported markedly more use of psychotropic drugs than the Israelis, in particular more anxiolytics, mood stabilizers, and hypnotics.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that the common mental disorders and mental health service use among the immigrants are no higher than that among their Israeli counterparts. The higher use of psychotropic drugs by immigrants may be an indirect indicator of a higher level of psychological distress symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.
The National Trajectory Project of Individuals Found Not Criminally Responsible on Account of Mental Disorder in Canada. Part 1: Context and Methods
Authors: Crocker Anne G , Nicholls Tonia L , Seto Michael C , Côté Gilles , Charette Yanick , Caulet Malijai
Published: July 2017

The National Trajectory Project examined longitudinal data from a large sample of people found not criminally responsible on account of mental disorder (NCRMD) to assess the presence of provincial differences in the application of the law, to examine the characteristics of people with serious mental illness who come into conflict with the law and receive this verdict, and to investigate the trajectories of NCRMD–accused people as they traverse the mental health and criminal justice systems. Our paper describes the rationale for the National Trajectory Project and the methods used to collect data in Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia, the 3 most populous provinces in Canada and the 3 provinces with the most people found NCRMD.
The National Trajectory Project of Individuals Found Not Criminally Responsible on Account of Mental Disorder in Canada. Part 2: The People behind the Label
Authors: Crocker Anne G , Nicholls Tonia L , Seto Michael C , Charette Yanick , Côté Gilles , Caulet Malijai
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To examine the psychosocio-criminological characteristics of not criminally responsible on account of mental disorder (NCRMD)–accused people and compare them across the 3 most populous provinces. In Canada, the number of people found NCRMD has risen during the past 20 years. The Criminal Code is federally legislated but provincially administered, and mental health services are provincially governed. Our study offers a rare opportunity to observe the characteristics and trajectories of NCRMD–accused people.

Method:

The National Trajectory Project examined 1800 men and women found NCRMD in British Columbia ( n = 222), Quebec ( n = 1094), and Ontario ( n = 484) between May 2000 to April 2005, followed until December 2008.

Results:

The most common primary diagnosis was a psychotic spectrum disorder. One-third of NCRMD–accused people had a severe mental illness and a concomitant substance use disorder, with British Columbia having the highest rate of dually diagnosed NCRMD–accused people. Most accused people (72.4%) had at least 1 prior psychiatric hospitalization. Two-thirds of index NCRMD offences were against the person, with a wide range of severity. Family members, followed by professionals, such as police and mental health care workers, were the most frequent victims. Quebec had the highest proportion of people with a mood disorder and the lowest median offence severity. There were both interprovincial differences and similarities in the characteristics of NCRMD-accused people.

Conclusions:

Contrary to public perception, severe violent offenses such as murder, attempted murder or sexual offences represent a small proportion of all NCRMD verdict offences. The results reveal a heterogeneous population regarding mental health and criminological characteristics in need of hierarchically organized forensic mental health services and levels of security. NCRMD—accused people were well known to civil psychiatric services prior to being found NCRMD. Risk assessment training and interventions to reduce violence and criminality should be a priority in civil mental health services.
The National Trajectory Project of Individuals Found Not Criminally Responsible on Account of Mental Disorder in Canada. Part 3: Trajectories and Outcomes through the Forensic System
Authors: Crocker Anne G , Charette Yanick , Seto Michael C , Nicholls Tonia L , Côté Gilles , Caulet Malijai
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To examine the processing and Review Board (RB) disposition outcomes of people found not criminally responsible on account of mental disorder (NCRMD) across the 3 most populous provinces in Canada. Although the Criminal Code is federally legislated, criminal justice is administered by provinces and territories. It follows that a person with mental illness who comes into conflict with the law and subsequently comes under the management of a legally mandated RB may experience different trajectories across jurisdictions.

Method:

The National Trajectory Project examined 1800 men and women found NCRMD in British Columbia ( n = 222), Quebec ( n = 1094), and Ontario ( n = 484) between May 2000 and April 2005, followed until December 2008.

Results:

We found significant interprovincial differences in the trajectories of people found NCRMD, including time detained in hospital and time under the supervision of an RB. The odds of being conditionally or absolutely discharged by the RB varied across provinces, even after number of past offences, diagnosis at verdict, and most severe index offence (all covariates decreased likelihood of discharge) were considered.

Conclusions:

Considerable discrepancies in the application of NCRMD legislation and the processing of NCRMD cases through the forensic system across the provinces suggests that fair and equitable treatment under the law could be enhanced by increased national integration and collaboration.
The Lifetime Course of Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Biskin Robert S
Published: July 2017

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) has historically been seen as a lifelong, highly disabling disorder. Research during the past 2 decades has challenged this assumption. This paper reviews the course of BPD throughout life, including childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. BPD can be accurately identified in adolescence, and the course of the disorder, in adolescence and adulthood, is generally similar, with reductions in symptoms over time. Functional recovery is less consistent, and further research on factors or treatments that may improve the long-term functional outcome of patients with BPD is warranted.
Changes in the International Mobility of Labour: Job Migration of Polish Nationals to Ireland
Authors: Grabowska Izabela
Published: July 2017

This paper, based on the case study of job migration from Poland to Ireland, is focused on changes in the international mobility of labour. The study is undertaken with a broad term of reference: (a) to consider factors of changes in the international mobility of labour in a macro-sphere; (b) to examine the social and personal factors which might motivate individuals to migrate; (c) to ascertain socio-demographic characteristics of those who migrate; (d) to document some experience of Polish people working in Ireland, to identify the extent of migration among young emigrants and the nature of their difficulties in Poland.
Pharmacogenetics of Agents Acting on the Central Nervous System
Authors: Jann Michael W. , Grimsley Sara R.
Published: July 2017

This article will review the various agents affecting the central nervous system (CNS) such as the analgesics, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines. Most of the research in pharmacogenetics with the CNS agents have been conducted in the antidepressants. The cytochrome 450 IID6 isozyme system has been shown to influence the disposition of the antidepressants and antipsychotics. Amitriptyline metabolism to nortriptyline and nortriptyline conversion to its 10-OH metabolite were shown to be influenced by the IID6 isozyme. Interestingly, imipramine metabolism to desipramine is only partially related to the IID6 isozyme. Biotransformation of imipramine to its 2-OH metabolite was shown to be affected by the IID6 isozyme, but its metabolism to the 10-OH remains to be investigated. Of the antipsychotic drugs, haloperidol and thioridazine are two agents most studied. Haloperidol is converted to a reduced metabolite via a ketone reductase enzyme. The reduced metabolite is oxidized back to Haloperidol. This oxidation pathway was reported to be affected by the IID6 isozyme. Thioridazine metabolism to mesoridazine and conversion of codeine to morphine appear to be also influenced by CP-450 IID6. Other 450 isozymes are reported to be involved with other CNS agents.
Dielectric Properties and Relaxation Behavior of Polymethylsiloxane-imide Films
Authors: Wang Huimin , Tao Xiaoming , Newton Edward
Published: July 2017

We have investigated the dielectric properties, dielectric relaxation behavior, electric conduction and kinetic characteristics of polysiloxane-imide films. The addition of siloxane is a very effective way to reduce the dielectric constant (E') of polyimides. For example, polysiloxane-imide [BPDA + siloxane] has a very low dielectric constant of 2.66, compared to normal polyimides such as Upilex-S [BPDA + pPDA] with a dielectric constant of 3.47. The dielectric relaxation behavior of polysiloxane-imide is quite similar to that of fluorine-containing polysiloxane-imide. As frequency increases, the transition peaks of polysiloxane-imide move toward high temperature and the ce relaxation strengths decrease. The fJ peak corresponds to the 3 dipolar relaxation whereas the a peak is due to the conductive effects in the bulk and the ca dipolar relaxation. The activation energy of the ce transition decreases with increasing frequency, while the activation energy of the 3 transition does not vary with frequency The a peak is reduced with the increase of frequency, while the value of the 3 peak hardly changes with frequency
A Novel Phenylethynyl-terminated Siloxane: Synthesis and Electron Beam Cure
Authors: Hamerton Ian , Hay' John N. , Howgate Gerald , Howlin Brendan J. , O'Gara Paula
Published: July 2017

The synthesis of a novel phenylethynyl-terminated siloxane polymer is described, by reaction of the amine-terminated siloxane with 4-phenylethynylphthalic anhydride. The oligomer (PET-PDMS) is electron beam (EB) curable, in contrast to the commercial phenylethynyl-terminated imide, PETI-5, probably as a result of increased polymer chain mobility arising from siloxane incorporation. Raman spectroscopy indicates that the cure mechanisms for electron beam and thermal cure of PET-PDMS are different. PET-PDMS appears to undergo chain scission under the influence of an electron beam. Differential scanning calorimetry of the EB cured polymer is also consistent with a mechanism involving cleavage of siloxane linkages.
An investigation into the effect of die temperature and heat treatment on A360 properties produced by the semi-solid forming and cooling slope method
Authors: Keikha M M , Safari M , Heisiattalab S , Arbabi V
Published: July 2017

Forming Al alloys using the semi-solid method could largely overcome major problems of the die casting process. The cooling slope method is applied by pouring the melt on to the cooling slope to refine and spherodize it. Applying the cooling slope method in casting is relatively simple, yet financially beneficial in terms of required equipment, not to mention the fact that it is capable of producing semi-solid slurries. Parameters to be considered in this method include die temperature and heat treatment; both affecting microstructure and mechanical properties of the work piece. In this study, pouring conditions were 60° slope angle and 400mm length. Under these conditions, the highest obtained hardness was 77HB. Three different temperatures (25°C, 300°C, and 600°C) were compared in order to obtain the most suitable microstructure. The 300°C die temperature was found to result in the optimum microstructure. Thereafter, samples produced under the optimum die temperature were reheated in 580°C for 5, 10, and 15min and then immediately quenched in 25°C water. Results indicate that samples obtained from 10min heating had finer and more proportional microstructure, and under this condition hardness was increased from 80.6HB to 87.1HB.
Ahimsa (Non-violence) in the Indian Ethos
Authors: Chakraborty S.K.
Published: July 2017

In a world fraught with violence in its macabre form, it is essential to have a broad and clear understanding of the principle of non-violence (ahimsa), its various nuances, its potential and limitations. Covering a span of wisdom literature on the Indian ethos from the times of the Upanishads to the works of modern seers like Gandhi, Tagore and Aurobindo, the author presents the notions of non-violence and violence along a finely graduated scale instead of going into sharp polarities. While making a clear distinction between gross physical violence and the subtle play of violence in words, thoughts and ideas, the paper goes on to offer a critique of modern technology and nuclear proliferation for perpetrating violence on nature and fellow human beings in the name of progress and development. While expressing his admiration for the Gandhian principle of non-violence, the author advocates practical idealism that admits violence with caution but without hatred for the purpose of general welfare (lokasamgraha), along the lines of the messages of Krishna in the Gita. This is of practical necessity till such time as the world has been awakened to a heightened level of spiritual consciousness.
The Universal Immunisation Programme: An Evaluation Based on a Social Marketing Perspective
Authors: Madhavi A. D.
Published: July 2017

This paper is about comparison from a social marketing perspective, based on secondary data, of the programme constituents and achievements of the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) on the one hand and the Pulse Polio Immunisation programme on the other. Implications of the comparison are noted for the benefit of increasing the effectiveness of the UIP as well as to improve the design of similar initiatives in future.
Needs in the Curriculum for Medical Assistants' Training Schools in Bangladesh: Curriculum Review and Users' Insight
Authors: Rahman M. Shafiqur , Shaheen Rukhsana
Published: July 2017

This need assessment of the curriculum for the Medical Assistants' Training Schools (MATS) in Bangladesh is a qualitative exploration by employing methodological mixes. The purpose of conducting the need assessment is to appraise requisiteness of the current curriculum and give direction to bring it at par with the changing demand of the day. The findings show a flow in the intricate relationship among human resource development, good governance and health care delivery expectations that affect the effective implementation of the curriculum. The findings also point out that the curriculum needs to be rewritten with correct English syntax. Some issues of course plan in the curriculum need to be incorporated and/or redefined. It is recommended that the current curriculum be revised and updated.
People's Choice of Health Care Provider: Policy Options for Rural Karnataka in India
Authors: Mathiyazhagan Maathai K.
Published: July 2017

The main objective of this paper is to examine the people's choice of health care provider in rural India and the policy concerns in engenders. This is estimated through the Logit Model by using the rural household survey on health in Karnataka state in India. The study also explores the heuristic approach through observation and informal discussion with rural people about their opinion on existing health care services. The analysis shows that the private health care provider has emerged as the people's choice. However, the choice is significantly linked with socio-economic conditions of the rural people. The discussion suggests that policy makers in India should take serious note of the growing popularity of the private sector in providing health care services, and that it would be advisable to opt for a private-public mix for regulatory and supportive policy interventions. This would inevitably promote this sector's viable and appropriate development.
Do HR Practices Influence Job Satisfaction? Examining the Mediating Role of Employee Engagement in Indian Public Sector Undertakings
Authors: Pradhan Rabindra Kumar , Dash Sangya , Jena Lalatendu Kesari
Published: July 2017

There is a dearth of research examining relationship among HR practices, employee engagement and job satisfaction in public sector undertakings in India. The present study makes an attempt to shed light on this largely neglected area of research by examining the mediating function of employee engagement between HR practices and job satisfaction. Data were collected from 393 executives through a questionnaire survey. Structural equation modelling was used to examine the relationship between HR practices, employee engagement and job satisfaction. HR practices were found to be positively linked with job satisfaction. Further, employee engagement significantly mediated the relationship between HR practices and job satisfaction. The practical implications of the study are discussed in the light of the existing literature.
Does Better Corporate Governance and Legal Framework Result in Ethical Behaviour of Firms in Emerging Markets? An Examination Using Partial Least Square Estimation
Authors: S Sreejesh , Mohapatra Sanjay
Published: July 2017

Ethics is an all-pervasive subject of business, but its presence is rarely observed and measured in matters of corporate governance. From ethical point of view, the aim of corporate governance should be to ensure that certain moral standards are maintained and the legal system should be complied to while dealing with both external and internal business decisions that impact the stakeholders. However, the reality is that the companies concentrate on efficient governance mechanism at the cost of non-investor stakeholders with the objective to increase shareholder profitability and firm's short term financial value.

This phenomenon gets pronounced in emerging markets. In this context, this study provides a detailed framework and a model for analysing how the governance and legal framework have an effect on the ethical behaviour of firms in 21 emerging markets. The findings of the study suggest that corporate governance and its legal framework do have an impact on ethical behaviour of firms in emerging markets. The results also suggest that firms operating in these countries tend to have a direct relationship with legal system and ethical behaviour and negative relationship with corporate governance and ethical behaviour.
The Amnesty Programme and the Challenges of Ending Youth Militancy in Nigeria’s Niger Delta
Authors: Wapmuk Sharkdam
Published: July 2017

The Amnesty introduced by the late President Umaru Yar Adua in 2009, no doubt brought some respite to the crisis in the Niger Delta region. However, there remain strong concerns on how to sustain the relative peace that has been achieved so far. The Amnesty was preconditioned on the surrender of arms and renunciation of militancy to be eligible for inclusion in an Amnesty programme for rehabilitation and reintegration, which included monthly allowances and training for the ex-militants. Despite the progress made through the amnesty, it has been characterised by various challenges which could reverse the gains of the programme if not properly managed. The paper examines the amnesty programme from its inception under late President Yar Adua, and what it portends for the youth, including those that are not/were not militants. The paper is qualitative in terms of its methodological approach. It argues that the amnesty programme should go beyond dealing with the problem of militancy and should include youth that were not militants, but who also have a stake in the region. The paper concludes by recommending that ending youth militancy fundamentally depends on the commitment of the government as well as other stakeholders to address the developmental challenges in the region, as this holds more promise of sustaining peace. This to a large extent depends on a leadership that takes seriously the issue of governance, development and environmental justice, which have eluded the region for decades.
Prognostic and clinicopathological role of long non-coding RNA taurine upregulated 1 in various human malignancies: A systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaoxiong , Chen Xin , Zhang Daming , Yang Guang , Yang Zhao , Yin Zhiqin , Zhao Shiguang
Published: July 2017

The aberrant dysregulation of taurine upregulated 1, a novel discovered long non-coding RNA, was ubiquitous in different human solid tumors. Accumulating researches have indicated that taurine upregulated 1 is an independent prognostic indicator in cancer patients. This investigation aimed to further explore the prognostic and clinical significance of taurine upregulated 1 in various types of cancers. Eligible studies were systematically searched in PubMed, Embase, Medline, and Web of Science databases. A total of 12/14 studies with 1303/1228 individuals were included to evaluate the association of taurine upregulated 1 with overall survival and clinicopathological features by pooled hazard ratio and odds ratio in malignancies. The meta-analysis suggested overexpression of taurine upregulated 1 was significantly correlated with unfavorable overall survival in patients with cancer (pooled hazard ratio = 1.63, 95% confidence interval: 1.29–2.06). There was also a significantly positive correlation between high level of taurine upregulated 1 and high pathological grade carcinoma (pooled odds ratio = 4.41, 95% confidence interval: 3.07–6.43) and positive lymphatic metastasis (pooled odds ratio = 2.00, 95% confidence interval: 1.31–3.06). In summary, upregulated taurine upregulated 1 is correlated with more advanced clinicopathological characteristics and poor prognosis, suggesting that taurine upregulated 1 may serve as a novel predictive biomarker of patients with numerous tumors.
Association of NFKB1 and NFKBIA gene polymorphisms with susceptibility of gastric cancer
Authors: Li Dan , Wu Chuancheng , Cai Yuanhua , Liu Baoying
Published: July 2017

Xianyou county of Fujian province, located on the southeast coastal of China, has higher gastric cancer mortality. Chronic inflammation plays an important role in the occurrence of gastric cancer, in which the nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway of the inflammatory reaction begins and plays an important role in the amplification process. Studies have found that a single-nucleotide polymorphism of nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway molecules encoding genes is associated with gastric cancer, but the combined effect of the nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway gene has not been explained nor has been cardia and non-cardia gastric cancer risk factors and genetic susceptibility loci. New gastric cancer cases of the Fujian Xianyou Hospital were the research object. They were divided into cardia and non-cardia cancer in order to study a single-nucleotide polymorphism of the nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway important node molecules P50 and I kappa B encoding genes NFKB1 and NFKBIA by desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry analysis and by matrix-assisted laser mass spectrometry. The results showed that NFKB1 and NFKBIA single-nucleotide polymorphisms and gastric cancer are related and that the combined effects of polymorphisms in two genes and the NFKBIA gene monomer increased the risk of gastric cancer, and it was found that in different types of gastric cancer (the cardia and non-cardia cancer), susceptible polymorphism sites and combined effects are different.
Does Gospel Music Have a Place in General Music?
Authors: Leach Anthony
Published: July 2017

There are different kinds of musics existing side by side with relative degrees of aesthetic values. Separate musics have separate functions; and the functions are multiplying. There are happenings all around us, on the street corners, in churches, events both political and social. They pose the problem of value judgments, not only of the quality of the music, but quality within the [framework] of the musics. Can we and should we assign a [value] hierarchy to various music? (Documentary Report of the Tanglewood Symposium, 122)
A Physician's Exposure to Defamation
Authors: Mandell William J.
Published: July 2017

The article defines defamation, discusses how to avoid a defamation action, and suggests defenses against a defamation action. Several examples are given that demonstrate common situations where liability exists and how a physician should respond. The article explains that at times we have a duty to speak and differentiates between our legal, moral, and ethical duty. Defamation should not be a concern for those involved in the peer review process, as long as they are truthful or act in a good faith belief that what they are saying is true. The article should enhance peer review by encouraging physicians to participate without fear of a retaliatory law suit.
Double Perspective
Authors: Ginsberg-Riggs Gina , Weiner Ann , Stimson Elizabeth
Published: July 2017

We have a nine year old boy with an IQ of 139 who does well in all his subjects. Two mornings a week he goes to the school's gifted and talented program which he likes very much. He knows all the work in his regular classes. It may challenge the other students, but it is boring for him. He has become somewhat of a behavior problem by making faces, dropping his books, teasing and calling out answers. The school suggested an evaluation to which we gladly agreed, hoping that they would realize that a more challenging curriculum would motivate him and stop his silly behavior. Imagine our upset when the school psychologist suggested therapy instead! We have not agreed to this because we feel that the right kind of education wilt correct his behavior. We have lost all faith in the school. Could G/C/T please publish a list of public and private schools for gifted children?
Ideas for Teaching Gifted Students
Authors: Mallis Jackie
Published: July 2017

“I am using your series IDEAS FOR TEACHING GIFTED STUDENTS. I am having great success with the material and my students love it. The books have enough background information to get the teacher started and the teaching methods employed are sound and exciting to the student. The days I use the material from them seem superspecial. When I do not use them my students are chomping at the bit, [but] I don't have enough time to develop my own. Thank you for the care and concern taken in publishing these excellent teacher helpers.” (Unsolicited comment from BST, Greenville, MS. Used with permission.)
The Letter
Authors: Summers R.
Published: July 2017

This is written as a tribute to the West Virginia National Youth Science Camp. Each year it hosts two representatives from each of our fifty states, who have been chosen on the basis of academic excellence and scientific ability. The State of West Virginia can take great pride in the enrichment it has provided for gifted and talented students throughout our nation.
Double Perspective
Authors: Ginsberg-Riggs Gina , Weiner Ann
Published: July 2017

Help! I have been given your address as a possible avenue of information to help my son (as well as his mother). I would appreciate any information and suggestions of books to get. He is almost five. We have encouraged play instead of learning to this point. But about 3 weeks ago he decided to learn to read. He recognizes all of his letters and a few words already. We have been told this constitutes a “special” child. We have nothing to compare him with so I don't know how special. He can count as far as you have patience to listen and also can use those numbers to read prices and program the microwave, etc. His thirst for knowledge is seemingly endless. I hope this can help you tell me if you could be of service or if maybe he's just a kid. We really don't know.

We have rap sessions in our gifted class because the other kids tease us and call us names. Some teachers are okay but others are just as mean as the kids. We think they are unfair, but we don't know how to stop it. Maybe the teachers who are in G/C/T can tell us how to make others understand that we are just kids who are smart and would like to be treated like everybody else.

We are the parents of a very bright, inquisitive three and a half year old. Wanting to ensure our daughter is offered all she seeks in terms of an educational experience, we are currently attempting to find a program to enroll her in. As this is our first child and neither my wife nor myself are formal educators we are naturally at a loss for direction.

Having just received our first issue of your magazine, we feel your resources are what we need. Would you please furnish us with needed contacts that could direct us to appropriate programs in the Long Island area. We eagerly await your communication.
Gifted/Creative/Talented Teacher Survival Simulation Test
Authors: Cummings Alysa , Ciano Karin
Published: July 2017

Do you have what it takes to be a teacher of the gifted, creative and talented? We'll find out soon enough. Turn the page and thoughtfully consider each of the situations common to the job. Then choose the one strategy that best describes how you would respond. Good luck!
Life beyond the Classroom
Authors: Contessa John , Dobey Daniel , Johnstone Judy Ramoy
Published: July 2017

Outdoor education programs are ideal for meeting the special needs of gifted students. They provide numerous experiential activities that challenge students to use observation as well as higher level thinking skills. Also, such programs can encourage students to research and design projects based on individual needs and interests.

A comment may be made, however, that the above mentioned experiences are appropriate for all students. The problem, then, is one of designing an outdoor education program that is suited for gifted students. This article will describe the summer enrichment program at Mount Saint Mary's College and how language arts skills were integrated with outdoor education to produce a qualitatively different program to meet the needs of gifted students.
A New Idea
Authors: Karges-Bone Linda
Published: July 2017

“For every evil under the sun There is a remedy or there is none If there be one, seek till you find it If there be none, never mind it” (The Real Mother Goose, 1916)
Challenging: Gifted Learners: Through Children's Literature
Authors: Bryant Margaret A.
Published: July 2017

Early primary educators whose classes include some students with advanced academic abilities must provide experiences that stimulate their intellectual development while meeting the educational needs of the typical learners. One way to provide for these advanced learners is to extend and enrich the mandated curriculum through the use of children's literature. Library books offer a broad range of topics upon which units of study can be developed. This method is cost effective as the books are readily available through the school or public library and the interest level is appropriate to young children. The units can correlate with the regular curriculum, include required basic skills, offer new knowledge, develop higher level thinking skills and instill a love of learning.
The Advantage of Same-Sex Programs
Authors: Wollam Jean
Published: July 2017

Recent sex equity research reports that females often unintentionally receive unequal treatment in the classroom.
Future Problem Solving
Authors: Hibel John
Published: July 2017

Nearly 10 years ago I participated in Future Problem Solving (FPS) as part of a Talented and Gifted students program at my high school in Marietta, Ohio. The FPS Program, which teaches a creative and analytical approach to problem solving, and holds annual competitions for teams of students to practice the skills they learned, was a lot of fun. Unfortunately, as an educational tool, FPS probably comes under considerable scrutiny when budgets are tight, possibly because its benefits cannot be measured as easily as traditional teaching methods. Looking back, though, FPS was arguably one of the most applicable educational programs I have experienced to this day.

Now, 10 years later, the feelings of my involvement are still vivid and I'm using the skills more than ever. I've built a career on problem solving, and as I look forward to the 40 years or so I have ahead of me in business, I rather imagine that I'll be positioning myself as someone who can come up with innovative solutions to problems by analyzing them from many different perspectives. That's the unique skill, the competitive advantage that I can bring to any position, now or in the future. However, regardless of what the future has in store for me, I can with certainty recognize Dr. Torrance's Future Problem Solving Program as one of the key experiences that has already contributed to my success.
Two-Year Toxicity Study of Doxylamine Succinate in B6C3F1 Mice
Authors: Jackson Carlton D. , Sheldon Winslow
Published: July 2017

Doxylamine succinate, a commonly used antihistamine, was administered as an admixture in the feed to groups of male and female B6C3F1 mice at dosage levels of 0,190,375, and 750 parts per million (ppm) (based on free amine) for 65 weeks (12 per group) or 2 years (48 per group). Survival to terminal sacrifice in the 2-year groups was 85–98% with no significant differences between groups of the same sex. Final body weights of the highest dose group were 3.4% and 8.7% less than controls in males and females, respectively. Doxylamine produced liver lesions in male mice including hepatocellular hypertrophy, atypical hepatocytes, clear cell and mixed cell foci, and necrosis. In females, doxylamine produced liver fatty change, hepatocellular hypertrophy, and necrosis. Doxylamine produced a significant increase in hepatocellular adenomas in the mid- and high-dosage groups of males and in the high-dosage group of females. Thyroid follicular cell hyperplasia and thyroid follicular cell adenomas also were increased in treated mice of both sexes. A treatment-related increase in cytoplasmic alteration of the parotid salivary gland in males and an increased incidence in hyperplasia of the pituitary gland in females were observed.
Problems in Developmental Toxicology Caused by Incorrectly Used Terminology
Authors: Christian Mildred S.
Published: July 2017

Communication problems caused by the use of imprecise or incorrect terminology and poor translations have historically plagued the field of “developmental toxicology,” the study of embryo-fetal toxicity/teratogenicity. The recent international efforts towards standardizing protocols identified how severe these problems can become and how they can be the underlying cause of incorrect interpretation of data; unnecessary replication of studies; delays in reaching market; lawsuits; and elective abortions. The incorrect incorporation of the word “teratology” into the FDA 1966 Guidelines, and many subsequent guidelines, to identify a study in which the conceptus is exposed during the period of major embryogenesis was the basis for many other problems. For example, other potential outcomes of exposure are often not given the same level of concern as malformation, the interrelationship of the maternal animal and the developing conceptus is sometimes excluded from evaluation, and agents are often categorized as “teratogens,” regardless of dose-dependent observations and relative exposures of the dam and conceptus. The proliferation of terms to modify the severity and relevance of fetal morphologic observations to human risk assessment has increased the difficulties in data interpretation. Many professional societies and regulatory groups have pleaded for the development and use of common terms, and some heroic attempts have been made. However, there is no currently internationally acceptable glossary or terminology.