bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversibility of Cardiac Function Predicts Outcome After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Sato Kimi , Kumar Arnav , Jones Brandon M. , Mick Stephanie L. , Krishnaswamy Amar , Grimm Richard A. , Desai Milind Y. , Griffin Brian P. , Rodriguez L. Leonardo , Kapadia Samir R. , Obuchowski Nancy A. , Popović Zoran B.
Published: July 2017

Background

Reversibility of left ventricular (
LV
) dysfunction in high‐risk aortic stenosis patient and its impact on survival after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (
TAVR
) are unclear. We aimed to evaluate longitudinal changes of
LV
structure and function after
TAVR
and their impact on survival.

Methods and Results

We studied 209 patients with aortic stenosis who underwent
TAVR
from May 2006 to December 2012. Echocardiograms were used to calculate
LV
end‐diastolic volume index (LV
EDV
i),
LV
ejection fraction,
LV
mass index (
LVM
i), and global longitudinal strain before, immediately (<10 days), late (1–3 months), and yearly after
TAVR
. During a median follow‐up of 1345 days, 118 patients died, with 26 dying within 1 year. Global longitudinal strain,
LVEDV
i,
LV
ejection fraction, and
LVM
i improved during follow‐up. In patients who died during the first year, death was preceded by
LVEDV
i and
LVM
i increase. Multivariable longitudinal data analysis showed that aortic regurgitation at baseline, aortic regurgitation at 30 days, and initial
LVEDV
i were independent predictors of subsequent
LVEDV
i. In a joint analysis of longitudinal and survival data, baseline Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was predictive of survival, with no additive effect of longitudinal changes in
LVEDV
i,
LVM
i, global longitudinal strain, or
LV
ejection fraction. Presence of aortic regurgitation at 1 month after
TAVR
was the only predictor of 1‐year survival.

Conclusions

LV
reverse remodeling was observed after
TAVR
, whereas lack of
LVEDV
i and
LVM
i improvement was observed in patients who died during the first year after
TAVR
. Post‐
TAVR
, aortic regurgitation blocks reverse remodeling and is associated with poor 1‐year survival after
TAVR
.
Acute Stress Time-dependently Modulates Multiple Memory Systems
Authors: Goldfarb Elizabeth V. , Mendelevich Yeva , Phelps Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2017

Acute stress has been shown to modulate the engagement of different memory systems, leading to preferential expression of stimulus–response (SR) rather than episodic context memory when both types of memory can be used. However, questions remain regarding the cognitive mechanism that underlies this bias in humans—specifically, how each form of memory is individually influenced by stress in order for SR memory to be dominant. Here we separately measured context and SR memory and investigated how each was influenced by acute stress after learning (Experiment 1) and before retrieval (Experiment 2). We found that postlearning stress, in tandem with increased adrenergic activity during learning, impaired consolidation of context memory and led to preferential expression of SR rather than context memory. Preretrieval stress also impaired context memory, albeit transiently. Neither postlearning nor preretrieval stress changed the expression of SR memory. However, individual differences in cortisol reactivity immediately after learning were associated with variability in initial SR learning. These results reveal novel cognitive mechanisms by which stress can modulate multiple memory systems.
On (S-1, S) Inventory Model for Deteriorating Items under State Dependent System
Authors: Roy Dilip
Published: July 2017

This paper considers an inventory model where the policy is to place an order with a supplier whenever a demand is made or an item in stock deteriorates. Deterioration occurs randomly at a state dependent rate. Then the optimal stock to be maintained has been worked out by minimising the total expected cost involving holding cost, waiting cost of an order, shortage cost, and deterioration cost under state dependent markovian process for arrival of orders and arrival of supplies.
Decomposition of Bivariate Symmetric Density Function
Authors: Seo Takashi Sadao Tomizawa , Minaguchi Jun-Ichiro
Published: July 2017

For the analysis of square contingency tables, it is known that the symmetry model holds if and only if both the quasi-symmetry and the marginal homogeneity models hold (Caussinus, 1965; Bishop et al., 1975, p. 287). This paper shows that a similar decomposition for bivariate density function (instead of cell probabilities) holds.
Bayes Estimation of the Finite Population Mean Under Heavy­Tailed Priors*
Authors: Ghosh Malay , Kim Dal Ho
Published: July 2017

The paper considers Bayes estimation of the finite population mean under priors which are scale mixtures of normal, and thus have tail heavier than that of the normal, The proposed estimators are quite robust in general, and often can outperform Bayes estimators under the normal prior. Numerical methods of finding Bayes estimators under these heavy tailed priors are given, and are illustrated with an actual example.
Some Issues Related to Estimation of Component Life Time Distributions in a Coherent System
Authors: Dewanji Anup
Published: July 2017

Recently, some interest has been focussed on the estimation of component life time distributions in coherent systems. For simplicity, most of the work assume independence between different component life times. Also, some specific dependence structure has been dealt with in some limited cases. In this work, we introduce a unified way of modelling the component life time distributions in a coherent system through the framework of multivariate failure times, which includes some arbitrary nature of dependence. Under independence, both parametric and nonparametric estimation of component life time distributions are discussed with continuous monitoring data and autopsy data as well. A specific dependence structure is also considered for this purpose.
Robust Second Order Rotatable Designs : Part I
Authors: Das Rabindra Nath
Published: July 2017

In Panda and Das ( Cal. Statist. Assoc. Bull., 44, 1994, 83-101) a study of rotatable designs with correlated errors was initiated and a systematic study of first order rotatable designs was attempted. Various correlated structures of the errors were considered.

This two-part article relates to a thorough study on robust second order rotatable designs (SORD's) under violation of the usual homoscedasticity assumption of the distribution of errors. Under a suitable autocorrelated structure of the dispersion matrix of the error components, we examine existence and construction of robust rotatable designs.

In part I, general conditions for rotatability have been derived and special cases have been examined under autocorrelated structure of the errors. Starting with the usual SORD's (under the uncorrelated error setup), we have discussed a method of construction of SORD's with correlated errors under the autocorrelated structure. An illustrative example is given at the end.

In part II,we propose to examine robustness of the usual SORD's with emphasis on properties such as weak rotatability, with due consideration as to the cost involved.
“Salicyluria”—A Recapitulation
Authors: Stevens H. M.
Published: July 2017

The observance of a substance, which was chemically similar to salicylic acid, in urine samples submitted for alcohol determination led to an investigation of the urinary metabolites arising from the ingestion of aspirin.

Three metabolites were isolated and identified as salicyluric, gentisic and salicylic acids. As an additional confirmation of salicyluric acid, the main metabolite, a synthetic sample of this substance was prepared from aspirin and glycine.
Tandem Bullet in the Head in a Case of Suicide
Authors: Timperman J. , Cnops L.
Published: July 2017

The authors report a suicide in which two fired cartridges were found and the victim showed only one entrance wound. Tandem bullets were removed from the head. Such misfirings due to faulty ammunition are most exceptional.
Estimation of Postmortem Interval from Rectal Temperature by Use of Computer — Relationship between the Rectal and Skin Cooling Curves
Authors: Hiraiwa Kouichi , Kudo Toshiyuki , Kuroda Fusakuni , Ohno Youkichi , Sebetan Ismail M. , Oshida Shigemi
Published: July 2017

The deep body temperatures at depths of 0.5 cm and of 1 cm and the skin and rectal temperatures of the living rabbit were monitored in order to clarify the initial condition. It was revealed that there is a temperature gradient similar to the logarithmic curve from the core to the surface. Taking this temperature gradient into consideration, the computer simulation model composed of the approximate equations was used to investigate the adaptability of the theoretical cooling curves to the experimental rectal and skin cooling curves. Our computer simulation model proved that the theoretical cooling curves reproduced well both the experimental rectal and skin cooling curves regardless of changes in the ambient temperature.
3. A Giant Mesenteric Aneurysm and Sudden Death
Authors: Suzuki T , Yoshikawa K , Mabuchi S , Umetsu K
Published: July 2017

In sudden death cases, aortic or cerebral artery aneurysms are not infrequent, but a mesenteric artery branch aneurysm has not previously been reported. In the present paper, we describe a case of sudden death from the rupture of a giant mesenteric aneurysm.
In Vivo Studies on Amino Acid Transmitters in the Central Auditory System of the Guinea Pig
Authors: Jarlstedt Jan , Karlsson Birgitta , Hamberger Anders
Published: July 2017

The extracellular concentrations of endogenous amino acids were measured in vivo in the guinea pig cochlear nucleus during sound stimulation. The purpose was to explore whether certain amino acids might be employed as neurotransmitters by the auditory nerve. A dialysis sampling probe was used to collect a dialysate of the cochlear nucleus. The amino acids were determined fluorometrically after precolumn derivation and high‐performance liquid chromatography separation. A short pulse of p‐chloromercuryphenylsulfonate (p‐CMS) was used to reduce the reuptake of amino acids. The concentration of glutamic and aspartic acid increased twofold to threefold during sound stimulation, while gamma‐aminobutyric acid was unaffected. The results support a role for glutamic and/or aspartic acids as neurotransmitters in the auditory nerve.
Cervical Lymphangioma in the Adult
Authors: Schefter Robert P. , Olsen Kerry D. , Gaffey Thomas A.
Published: July 2017

Cervical lymphangioma is rare among adults. Thirty‐two patients with cervical lymphangioma were treated at the Mayo Clinic between 1950 and 1982. The records of these patients were reviewed to investigate the clinical and pathologic behavior of this lesion in persons more than 16 years of age. The lesions were seen in all decades of adult life and equally in men and women. Most lesions presented as a rapidly enlarging, asymptomatic mass. The anterior triangle of the neck was involved nearly as often as the posterior triangle, and right‐sided locations predominated (72%). Histopathologic differentiation of the lesions into simplex, cavernous, and cystic lymphangiomas was not helpful in predicting clinical behavior. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice. The lesions may intimately involve the carotid sheath or adjacent nerves. Recurrence in 21% of the 28 patients on whom follow‐up data were available mostly represented incomplete excision. Lymphangioma should be included in the differential diagnosis of a large asymptomatic neck mass of recent origin in the adult.
Lateral Pharyngeal Diverticula
Authors: Liston Stephen L.
Published: July 2017

There are several categories of lateral pharyngeal diverticula. The most common type passes through the thyrohyoid region and is usually diagnosed when a pharyngoesophagram is performed during the investigation of dysphagia. The understanding of the terminology describing the various types of such diverticula could be improved by noting whether they dilate with air, the neck is wide or narrow, and by describing the anatomic region of pharynx through which they pass.
Inferior Sagittal Osteotomy of the Mandible with Hyoid Myotomy‐Suspension: A New Procedure for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Riley Robert W. , Powell Nelson B. , Guilleminault Christian
Published: July 2017

Five patients were treated by inferior sagittal osteotomy and hyoid myotomy‐suspension. In three of the patients, palatopharyngoplasty had previously failed. One of the patients was noted to have mandibular deficiency; the others had normal skeletal development. Nocturnal polysomnograms were performed preoperatively and postoperatively. All patients showed significant improvement.
Operations on the Saccus Endolymphaticus and Vestibular Nerve: Have They Fulfilled Their Promise?
Authors: Smyth G. D. L. , Kerr A. G. , Primrose W.
Published: July 2017

The rationale for operations on the saccus and vestlbular nerve in patients incapacitated by Meniere's disease as a replacement for total labyrinthectomy, has been the expectancy that less radical procedures will protect these patients from total auditory incapacity. Aware of postoperative hearing losses in some patients after 3 years, we have studied the results in 21 Shambaugh saccus decompression (SD) and 29 middle fossa vestibular nerve section (VNS) operations, in order to assess the claims made for these procedures. We found that while control of vertigo was similar to that reported elsewhere, worse hearing (AAOO criteria) developed in many cases. With SD this increased from 14% at 1 year to 58% at 10 years, and with VNS it increased from 17% at 1 year to 48% at 10 years, when the worse preoperative audiogram was used. Only 17% of SD and 11% VNS ears with serviceable best preoperative hearing had retained this at 10 years. Nineteen percent developed aud iometric evidence of contralateral disease during the first 10 postoperative years. It is concluded that although, regrettably, neither of these surgical therapies appears to have the capability of preventing the progress of hearing loss, the reallty of bllateral disease justifies the continued use of SD or VNS by adequately trained surgeons.
Long‐Term Experience with Biocompatible Ossicular Implants
Authors: Emmett John R. , Shea John J. , Moretz William H.
Published: July 2017

The senior author's 8‐year personal experience with biocompatible ossicular implants is reviewed. Four hundred sixty‐one consecutive operations, in which high‐density polyethylene sponge ossicular replacement prostheses were used, are grouped according to the Bellucci classification of chronic otitis media. The prostheses used were the drum‐to‐footplate prosthesis (TORP, total) and the drum‐to‐stapes prosthesis (PORP, partial)*. Each group's short‐ and long‐term hearing results are compared. Prosthesis extrusion and persistent or recurrent conductive hearing loss are the most common causes of operation failure. Failures within each group are analyzed, and techniques to prevent these complications are outlined.
Cat‐Scratch Disease
Authors: Spires James R. , Smith Richard J.H.
Published: July 2017

Cat‐scratch disease has been reported with increasing frequency since its initial description in 1931. It is now recognized as being so prevalent that it probably represents the most common cause of unilateral lymphadenopathy in children, once nonspecific viral diseases and cutaneous infections have been excluded. The cardinal feature of the disease is a subacute regional granulomatous lymphadenitis. Because of its relatively mild natural course, most cases are treated on an outpatient basis. Forty‐four children, representing the more seriously ill portion of the disease spectrum, were treated at Texas Children's Hospital from 1972 to 1984 and constitute the data base for this article. Most patients were symptomatic for nearly 1 month prior to admission, typically complaining of low‐grade fever and regional lymphadenopathy. The two most common sites of lymph node involvement were the axilla (54%) and the neck (46%). Although there is, at this time, no specifically recommended treatment, 80% of patients received antibiotics and 70% underwent a surgical procedure—usually total nodal excision. Nodal excision was followed by rapid resolution of symptoms. Because cat‐scratch disease is benign, surgery should be reserved for severe cases with signs of significant suppuration. Generally, symptomatic relief can be afforded by warm soaks and analgesics and recovery over the course of several weeks is uneventful.
Histologic Study of Homograft Cartilages Implanted in the Middle Ear
Authors: Yamamoto Etsuo , Iwanaga Michitaka , Fukumoto Manabu
Published: July 2017

We examined conditions of the micro‐sliced homograft cartilages implanted in the middle ear, implanted cartilages removed at revision surgery or implanted cartilages removed at the second stage of staged tympanoplasty, both macroscopically and histologically. Macroscopically, the appearance and shape of the cartilages remained unchanged, with no evidence of erosion. There was no evidence of any foreign body reaction or rejection phenomenon. In general, no marked histologic changes of the matrix tissues were found, although chondrocytes showed degenerative changes. There was partial absorption of cartilage and replacement by fibrous connective tissue when inflammatory changes occurred in the middle ear. It is concluded that implanted homograft cartilage maintains its stiffness for more than 6 months in a healthy, aerated middle ear and appears to be clinically useful for tympanoplasty.
Hair Cell Loss and Regeneration after Exposure to Intense Sound in Neonatal Chicks
Authors: Henry William J. , Makaretz Michael , Saunders James C. , Schneider Mark E. , Vrettakos Panayotis
Published: July 2017

Neonatal chicks (between 1 and 3 days of age) were exposed to an intense pure tone for 48 hours, then killed immediately after removal from the sound, or 14 days later. Nonexposed age‐matched animals served as controls. The inner ear was removed and the auditory receptor organ (the basilar papilla) was prepared for evaluation by scanning electron microscopy. The site of injury on the papilla was described in terms of hair‐cell loss and location. The ears with no recovery showed a discrete lesion area, within which there was complete disruption of the hair‐cell field and a 35% loss in hair cells. After 14 days' recovery, no hair cell loss could be detected, though the lesion could still be recognized by the disorganization of hair cells in the previously injured area. These data demonstrate hair‐cell restoration after severe acoustic injury from intense sound exposure in the neonatal ear.
Information Resource Sharing in Asia and Oceania
Authors: Wijasuriya Donald E. K.
Published: July 2017

Discusses information resource sharing in Asia and Oceania against a backdrop of developments in the library and information sector in Malaysia. Deals with the formulation of national policy for library and information services, the activities of the Malaysian Research Library Network, national information infrastructures in the region, institutional Research Library Network, national information infrastructures in the region, institutional consortia for regional cooperation, and regional document delivery systems and information networks. Concludes with reflections and observations on regional cooperation in Asia and Oceania.
Transactional Analysis of Valuational Statements
Authors: Nicholas John M. , Ulschak Francis L.
Published: July 2017

This paper investigates how values and valuational statements are related to ego states. The first part focuses on structural analysis; the second part on analysis of transactions. Four levels of valuational discourse are discussed in detail and are presented in the form of a “Valuegram.”
Factors Predicting Practice Location and Outreach Consultation among University of Toronto Psychiatry Graduates
Authors: Hodges Brian , Rubin Ava , Cooke Robert G , Parker Sandy , Adlaf Edward
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To identify the determinants of practice location and of outreach consultation of recently graduated psychiatrists.

Methods:

We surveyed 153 psychiatrists who graduated from the University of Toronto Department of Psychiatry between January 1990 and June 2002 (response rate 51%), on the basis of a self-administered mail questionnaire. The survey assessed factors that influenced practice location and outreach consultation, such as demographics, links to practice communities, and outreach experiences, including rural or northern electives as a resident.

Results:

Professional variables were rated as the most important factors in choosing a practice location. Variables such as age or sex were not significantly associated with location. Nine percent reported working in communities of less than 100 000, and only 1% practised in Northern Ontario. Eighteen percent practised in the same location where they were born or raised. Forty-four percent had rural or northern experience as a resident but almost exclusively in the form of short, fly-in consultation electives. Twenty-four percent indicated that they provide outreach consultation. Psychiatry residents who participated in outreach electives were 10 times as likely as those who did not participate to continue outreach as a consultant.

Conclusion:

Although early exposure to rural or northern medicine leads to significantly greater continued involvement in outreach activities after graduation, our findings suggest the need for more long-term, on-site residency training opportunities in rural and remote areas.
Early Temperament Prospectively Predicts Anxiety in Later Childhood
Authors: Grant Valerie V , Bagnell Alexa L , Chambers Christine T , Stewart Sherry H
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To investigate the contribution of early childhood temperamental constructs corresponding to 2 subtypes of general negative emotionality—fearful distress (unadaptable temperament) and irritable distress (fussy–difficult temperament)—to later anxiety in a nationally representative sample.

Method:

Using multiple linear regression analyses, we tested the hypothesis that caregiver-reported child unadaptable temperament and fussy–difficult temperament scales of children aged 2 to 3 years (in 1995) would prospectively predict caregiver-reported child anxiety symptoms at ages 4 to 5, 6 to 7, 8 to 9, and 10 to 11 years, and child-reported anxiety at 10 to 11 years (controlling for sex, age, and socioeconomic status) in a nationally representative sample from Statistics Canada's National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth (initial weighted n = 768 600).

Results:

Only fussy–difficult temperament predicted anxiety in children aged 6 to 7 years. In separate regressions, unadaptable temperament and fussy–difficult temperament each predicted anxiety at 8 to 9 years, but when both were entered simultaneously, only unadaptable temperament remained a marginal predictor. Temperament did not significantly predict caregiver- or child-reported anxiety at 10 to 11 years, suggesting that as children age, environmental factors may become more important contributors to anxiety than early temperament.

Conclusion:

Our results provide the first demonstration that early temperament is related to later childhood anxiety in a nationally representative sample.
Psychiatry and Neuroscience
Authors: Paris Joel
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To examine the extent to which neuroscience accounts for mental disorders.

Method:

Relevant literature on this problem was selectively reviewed.

Results:

Thus far, neuroscience research has contributed more to the understanding of the brain than to determining the causes of mental disorders. Its model is more appropriate to severe than to common mental disorders. A reductionistic approach cannot account for emergent phenomena occurring at the level of the mind.

Conclusions:

Mental disorders cannot be reduced to abnormalities in neuronal activity; psychiatric symptoms need to be understood at multiple levels.
Lifetime Prevalence of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Young Adults: Examining Variations in the Socioeconomic Gradient
Authors: Yallop Lauren , Brownell Marni , Chateau Dan , Walker John , Warren Michelle , Bailis Dan , LeBow Michael
Published: July 2017

Objective:

It has only recently been accepted that attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persists into adulthood. Accordingly, less is known about adult diagnostic and treatment prevalence. We aimed to determine the lifetime prevalence of ADHD diagnosis and psychostimulant prescriptions for young adults in the province of Manitoba and to explore how diagnosis differs according to sociodemographic characteristics and age at diagnosis; and to investigate whether a socioeconomic gradient exists within young adults with a lifetime ADHD diagnosis, as well as the variables that moderate the gradient.

Methods:

Using the Manitoba Population Health Research Data Repository, our cross-sectional analysis used 24 fiscal years of data (1984/85 to 2008/09) and included all adults aged 18 to 29 during 2007/08 to 2008/09 in Manitoba ( n = 207 544) who had a lifetime diagnosis of ADHD ( n = 14 762). Regression analyses tested for differences in rates by sex, region, age, age at diagnosis, and socioeconomic status.

Results:

Lifetime prevalence for ADHD diagnosis (7.11%) and psychostimulant prescriptions (3.09%) differed according to sex, region, and age. In contrast to previous Manitoban research on childhood ADHD, the socioeconomic gradient for ADHD diagnosis was not found in young adulthood. When region was accounted for, a small negative gradient in the urban population and a positive gradient in the rural population were evident. People from the highest income quintile were significantly less likely to be diagnosed before age 18, compared with other income quintiles.

Conclusions:

Given the high lifetime prevalence of ADHD in Manitoban young adults and significant socioeconomic correlates for diagnosis, further investigation into the trajectory of this relatively unexplored population is recommended.
Deception in 2 × 2 Games
Authors: Brams Steven J.
Published: July 2017

Deception, which involves the conscious misrepresentation by Deceiver of his preferences to Deceived in a game of incomplete information, is analyzed in 2 × 2 games in which the preferences of players are strictly ordered. The 78 distinct 2 × 2 games are divided into three mutually exclusive classes:

1. Deception-proof (27 percent): Not susceptible to deception by either player.

2. Deception-stable (51 percent): While susceptible to deception by at least one player, neither player can ensure himself of a better outcome through deception.

3. Deception-vulnerable (tacit) (22 percent): At least one player can ensure himself of a better outcome only through deception. In addition, a fourth class of games (35 percent of total). which cuts across classes 2 and 3 above, are shown to be vulnerable to Deceiver who “reveals” himself in the play of a game.

Several theorems that characterize and interrelate the four classes and eleven finer categories of 2 × 2 games are proved. The theory is applied to the analysis of the Cuban missile crisis, in which it is suggested that the United States might, paradoxically, have benefited from being deceived by the Soviet Union.
Analysis of the thickness distribution varying tool trajectory in single-point incremental forming
Authors: Manco L , Filice L , Ambrogio G
Published: July 2017

Single-point incremental forming (SPIF) presents a great competitive advantage with respect to the conventional stamping processes, in particular when small batches have to be produced. The competitiveness of such a process cannot be evaluated only by comparison with other traditional manufacturing processes. It is clear that the process allows metal forming in the critical ‘necking-to-tearing’ zone and this results in a strong thinning before failure if the process is well designed. What is more, the process is complex because of the number of variables involved. Thus, it is not possible to consider that the process has been well assessed; several aspects remain that must be clarified. In this paper a wide-ranging investigation of tool trajectory selection versus material formability is presented. In particular, although the same shape has to be manufactured, it is possible to select a particular trajectory among the many possible ones; this choice will affect the final thickness distribution and formability, accordingly. In conclusion, it is possible to state that tool trajectory can be regarded as an optimization variable in the process design.
Collective interest representation of the European workforce in European Works Councils
Authors: Kerckhofs Peter
Published: July 2017

In this article, I draw on case study evidence to assess different aspects of the representativeness of European Works Councils. First, I consider how representativeness is framed by external sources of legitimation, such as the legal framework and the founding agreements. Second, I examine the internal legitimacy that can be derived from their membership. Third, I explore the reciprocal construction of legitimacy through linkages with local employee representation structures. Finally, I discuss their role in relation to trade unions and the further Europeanization of industrial relations.
The messianic nature of innovation
Authors: Pelaez Victor
Published: July 2017

To bring new technologies to the market, innovators must be able to convince both investors and consumers of the advantages of their forthcoming innovation and create expectations for improvements over the current situation. Innovation is therefore preceded by an annunciation that prophesies the future as time that goes by ( chronos). At the same time, innovation arises as an opportunity, to be seized at the precise moment of its annunciation ( kairos). This paper proposes to discuss the messianic nature of innovation, from two different perspectives: that of the promise proclaimed to create expectations and that of the timeless urgency, which ignores the time of conflicts and uncertainties inherent to the adoption of new technologies.
Corporate Governance in Malaysia: A Glass Half Full?
Authors: Ng Sin Huei , Yeoh Ken Kyid
Published: July 2017

It is believed that extensive political involvement in business fundamentally impacts the overall quality of both firm- and country-level corporate governance in a particular country. Using the corporate and institutional environment in Malaysia as our chosen example, we aim to show the profound influence that national government policies and approaches to the running of their respective capital markets has on the corporate governance practices and norms in a particular country.

Specifically, we show that political conflicts of interest can and have caused controlling shareholders of publicly-listed corporations to have greater inclination to engage in the expropriation of their minority shareholders. This tendency is particularly prevalent amongst large business groups where the link between politics and the business groups is most clearly displayed. We conclude that a culture of good corporate governance is extremely difficult to cultivate without good public / political governance.
Progress in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Song Zheyu , Wu Yuanyu , Yang Jiebing , Yang Dingquan , Fang Xuedong
Published: July 2017

Gastric cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in the digestive system. Surgery is currently considered to be the only radical treatment. As surgical techniques improve and progress is made in traditional radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and the implementation of neoadjuvant therapy, the 5-year survival rate of early gastric cancer can reach >95%. However, the low rate of early diagnosis means that most patients have advanced-stage disease at diagnosis and so the best surgical window is missed. Therefore, the main treatment for advanced gastric cancer is the combination of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, molecular-targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. In this article, we summarize several common methods used to treat advanced gastric cancer and discuss the progress made in the treatment of gastric cancer in detail. Only clinical practice and clinical research will allow us to prolong the survival time of patients and allow the patients to truly benefit by paying attention to the individual patient characteristics, drug choice, and developing a reasonable and comprehensive treatment plan.
Parents’ Experience of Hope When Their Child Has Cancer: Perceived Meaning and the Influence of Health Care Professionals
Authors: Conway Mary F. , Pantaleao Ashley , Popp Jill M.
Published: July 2017

Objective. This study examined the role and importance of hopefulness for parents of children with cancer, how hope relates to parents’ experience with the diagnosis, and the influence nurses and other health care professionals have on parents’ hope. Method. Using an interview format, 50 parents of children diagnosed with cancer were given the Reaction to Diagnosis Interview, and asked 5 open-ended questions about hope. Answers were analyzed using content analysis. Parents’ adaptation to their child’s diagnosis was compared with answers to the hope questions. Results. Parents defined hope as a knowing, belief, or wish regarding their child’s health. They emphasized the importance of hope over the course of their child’s treatment. Staff increased parents’ hope by providing care to children and families, educating parents, and by connecting with and providing a positive outlook for families. Most parents felt there was nothing staff did to decrease their hope. Conclusion. Understanding parents’ experiences validates the quality care and connections we make with children and families, and encourages us to consider the effects of our interactions. This underscores the importance of education and support as a means of instilling hope in parents, who are valued, critical members of their child’s health care team.
New Teachers' Workshop
Authors: Primas Jan , Primas Terry
Published: July 2017

Scenario 1: It is August. Mrs. Reid is walking down Main Street in her small town. She is feeling good. Summer vacation has been relaxing and she and her family had a good trip out west. Mrs. Reid has been teaching second grade for 12 years, likes it, and is regarded as a master teacher. Part of the reason for that is that she is well organized and always knows what she is doing and what she is going to do. Mrs. Reid is an energetic, committed professional who likes her job. In fact, she has already been to school and her room is ready for school to start in 3 weeks, right down to finished bulletin boards.

Mrs. Reid sees the Superintendent across the street and waves. He quickly crosses the street and they talk for a moment and then the Superintendent remarks, “By the way, we are going to have a gifted program this year and you're going to be the teacher.”

Scenario 2: Mrs. Barnes is glad the year is almost over. She is tired and looking forward to a rest. She has been a learning disabilities teacher for 8 years and taught remedial reading for 15 years before that. She has her master's in special education and is not going to take any courses at college this summer. Her job requires a lot of patience, the tempo is not too fast, and she finds enough rewards.

Mr. Black, the principal, calls Mrs. Barnes into his office. He informs her that the central office has decided to start a gifted program and it will be in his building. He would like her to teach it. Mrs. Barnes is flattered but isn't sure she wants to do it. Besides, why does he want her to teach the gifted program? “Well, you are used to working with small groups and individuals,” is his reply. Mrs. Barnes responds that she has no experience nor training in working with gifted students. No matter, she is it.
p-Chlorophenyl Methyl Sulfide, p-Chlorophenyl Methyl Sulfoxide, and p-Chlorophenyl Methyl Sulfone. II. Subchronic Effects in Rodents and Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Thake Daryl C. , Mays Dennis C. , Leber A. Philip , Dacre Jack C.
Published: July 2017

Rats, mice, and rhesus monkeys were subjected in subchronic exposures to the chemicals p-chlorophenyl methyl sulfide, p-chlorophenyl methyl sulfoxide, and p-chlorophenyl sulfone. Ninety-one-day toxicity studies were conducted by administering test chemicals to rodents at dietary concentrations of 750, 1500, and 3000 ppm. Clinical signs observed included transient central nervous system (CNS) depression, anorexia, and depressed weight gains. Minor alterations of hematologic and clinical chemistry parameters were also present. Gross and microscopic tissue findings in mice and rats included enlargement, necrotic and megalocytic changes of the liver. Damage to bronchiolar epithelium was observed in mice only at the highest exposure level. A 14-day gavage study in monkeys used daily dosages ranging from 2.5 to 80 mg/kg with an additional 15 days allotted for a recovery phase in one-half the test animals. Compound-related findings included lethality, CNS depression, and emesis. There were no significant compound-induced alterations in electrocardiographic or ophthalmic parameters. Serum blood urea nitrogen and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase values were elevated in the highest dosage groups for the three test materials concomitant with increases in liver and kidney weights. Microscopic lesions included proliferative changes in lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow; hepatocellular vacuolization, degeneration, and necrosis; thyroid follicular cell hyperplasia; and degenerative lesions in gastric and intestinal epithelium. No-observable-effect levels (NOELs) were not established for any of the three test chemicals in the species tested.
Anatomy of machine learning algorithm implementations in MPI, Spark, and Flink
Authors: Kamburugamuve Supun , Wickramasinghe Pulasthi , Ekanayake Saliya , Fox Geoffrey C
Published: July 2017

With the ever-increasing need to analyze large amounts of data to get useful insights, it is essential to develop complex parallel machine learning algorithms that can scale with data and number of parallel processes. These algorithms need to run on large data sets as well as they need to be executed with minimal time in order to extract useful information in a time-constrained environment. Message passing interface (MPI) is a widely used model for developing such algorithms in high-performance computing paradigm, while Apache Spark and Apache Flink are emerging as big data platforms for large-scale parallel machine learning. Even though these big data frameworks are designed differently, they follow the data flow model for execution and user APIs. Data flow model offers fundamentally different capabilities than the MPI execution model, but the same type of parallelism can be used in applications developed in both models. This article presents three distinct machine learning algorithms implemented in MPI, Spark, and Flink and compares their performance and identifies strengths and weaknesses in each platform.
Gay Lifestyle Publications: Drawing the Crowds to Grow the Bar Scene
Authors: Calder Bill
Published: July 2017

This article argues that the rapid expansion of Australia's gay bar scene from the late 1970s was aided by the parallel development of a new media genre: the gay lifestyle publication. The reason for this was a powerful synergy that existed between the publicity needs of the bar scene and the editorial, distribution and revenue needs of the lifestyle magazines. Conversely, the lack of such a synergy between the internet and the bars today can be seen as contributing to the recent decline of gay bars in Australian cities.
Styrene butadiene rubber as a viscosity improver: Experimental investigations and quantum chemical studies
Authors: Sabarinath S , Prabhakaran Nair K , Rajendrakumar PK , Parameswaran P
Published: July 2017

The limited viscosity range of vegetable oils restricts their effectiveness as a lubricant in numerous applications. In this work, the viscosity improvement with styrene butadiene rubber as an additive in sesame oil is studied and the results are compared with those of the commonly used viscosity improver, ethyl vinyl acetate, using a rheometer. Sesame oil/styrene butadiene rubber blends show higher increment in viscosity than sesame oil/ethyl vinyl acetate blends. The viscosity variations are further validated using Arrhenius model. A computational quantum chemical software, Gaussian 09, is used to evaluate the binding energies between molecules. Ground state electronic structures of molecules are modeled with density functional theory. Thermal properties such as flash, fire, and pour points have also been evaluated for sesame oil/styrene butadiene rubber blends. Chemical oxygen demand and biological oxygen demand are the parameters chosen to evaluate the biodegradability of sesame oil/styrene butadiene rubber blend.
Putting abortion in its social context: Northern Irish women's experiences of abortion in England
Authors: Boyle Mary , McEvoy Jane
Published: July 2017

Psychology and psychiatry have tended to approach abortion as a health issue for individual women and to focus on the potentially negative psychological effects of the procedure. This individualistic approach has created an impression of abortion as intrinsically risky for women and has provided a very limited account of the relationship between the social context in which women experience abortion and their responses to it. This article reports a qualitative study of seven women from Northern Ireland (where abortion is very restricted) who had travelled to England for abortions. The analysis revealed strong links between the women's experience and the very negative public constructions of abortion in Northern Ireland. Possible implications for women's healthcare, for the public debate on abortion and for psychology's role in this debate, are discussed.
An Epidemic of Cirrhosis in Danish Women Revisited
Authors: Petersen Jógvan , Skinhøj Peter , Thorsen Thorkil
Published: July 2017

Between 1944 and 1947 the mortality statistics for the Danish population show an epidemic increase of liver diseases: subacute necrosis and cirrhosis. The epidemic only affected female mortality rates. Mortality due to cirrhosis remained at a higher rate for women than men until 1970 as a result of an excess mortality in the cohort of women who in 1945 were over the age of 45. Up to 1981 this group showed an excess of 4 000 fatalities. A re-evaluation of medico-statistical data shows that the disease cannot be explained by the epidemic hepatitis occurring in 1942–1944 or by increased consumption of alcohol. Possible causes could be pharmaceutical products or additives, perhaps hormone preparations.
Geographical and Socioeconomic Distribution of Overweight and Morbidity in a Rural Swedish County
Authors: Haglund Bo J. A.
Published: July 2017

This report on overweight is based on a cross-sectional study in Skaraborg County, Sweden, in 1977. Mean values of Body Mass Index (BMI) are higher in this county than in other areas studied in Sweden and abroad. In correlation analysis the strongest association was found between overweight and hypertension. This is of particular interest since other studies have shown that Skaraborg county, has one of Sweden's highest proportions of treated hypertensives and also higher mortality during the 1970s in hypertension and obesity related diseases. The BMI varied between the municipalities of the county. Overweight was most common in the agricultural municipalities. The mean value of the BMI was higher among workers and persons with less formal education. This is contradictory to earlier Swedish studies with regard to men but not women. Physically demanding jobs accounted for more overweight individuals whereas high physical activity during leisure time was correlated with low body weight.
Foundation of the Natural Law Doctrine
Authors: Kelsen Hans
Published: July 2017

This paper was delivered by Prof. Kelsen in 1963 at the Saltzburg Colloquium on the Natural Law in Political Theory, under the title “Die Grundlage der Naturrechtslehre” and published in the Osterreichische Zeitschrift für Offentliches Recht, vol. XIII, bk. 1-2, pp.1–37 (copyright: Springer-Verlag Wien 1963).
Understanding the Experiences of Low-Income Individuals Receiving Farmers’ Market Incentives in the United States: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Savoie Roskos Mateja R. , Wengreen Heidi , Gast Julie , LeBlanc Heidi , Durward Carrie
Published: July 2017

Objective. The objective of this study was to identify benefits and barriers to using a farmers’ market (FM) incentive program among program participants. Design. In qualitative semistructured interviews, participants were asked about their experiences with shopping at FM, using FM incentives, barriers to fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake, and changes in dietary intake. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Inductive content analysis was used to code, categorize, and develop themes based on the transcriptions. Setting. A FM in Northern Utah. Subjects. A convenience sample of participants ( n = 14) completed a 45- to 60-minute interview after receiving FM incentives for an 8-week intervention period. Results. FM incentives reduced barriers associated with shopping at FM such as cost and accessibility among program participants. Incentives provided participants with greater spending flexibility, allowing parents to provide children with F&V that previously did not fit into their food budget. Participants reported greater family and community involvement when shopping at FM. However, the limited hours and days of operation were factors that reduced the use of FM among participants, even when incentives were provided. Conclusions. The perceived benefits and barriers to shopping at FM and receiving FM incentives should be considered by future programmers and funding agencies.
Peer Positive Social Control and Men’s Health-Promoting Behaviors
Authors: Houle Janie , Meunier Sophie , Coulombe Simon , Mercerat Coralie , Gaboury Isabelle , Tremblay Gilles , de Montigny Francine , Cloutier Lyne , Roy Bernard , Auger Nathalie , Lavoie Brigitte
Published: July 2017

Men are generally thought to be less inclined to take care of their health. To date, most studies about men’s health have focused on deficits in self-care and difficulties in dealing with this sphere of their life. The present study reframes this perspective, using a salutogenic strengths-based approach and seeking to identify variables that influence men to take care of their health, rather than neglect it. This study focuses on the association between peer positive social control and men’s health behaviors, while controlling for other important individual and social determinants (sociodemographic characteristics, health self-efficacy, home neighborhood, spousal positive social control, and the restrictive emotionality norm). In a mixed-method study, 669 men answered a self-reported questionnaire, and interviews were conducted with a maximum variation sample of 31 men. Quantitative results indicated that, even after controlling for sociodemographic variables and other important factors, peer positive social control was significantly associated with the six health behaviors measured in the study (health responsibility, nutrition, physical activity, interpersonal relations, stress management, and spirituality). Interview results revealed that peer positive social control influenced men’s health behaviors through three different mechanisms: shared activity, being inspired, and serving as a positive role model for others. In summary, friends and coworkers could play a significant role in promoting various health behaviors among adult men in their daily life. Encouraging men to socialize and discuss health, and capitalizing on healthy men as role models appear to be effective ways to influence health behavior adoption among this specific population.