bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of life in rheumatological patients
Authors: Uguz Faruk , Kucuk Adem , Cicek Erdinc , Kayhan Fatih , Salli Ali , Guncu Hatice , Çilli Ali Savas
Published: May 2015

Objective

Rheumatological diseases are associated with lower quality of life (QoL) levels. Psychiatric disturbances are frequently observed in these patients. This study examined the impact of personality disorders on the QoL of patients with rheumatological diseases.

Method

The study sample consisted of 142 participants including patients suffering from rheumatological disease with a personality disorder ( n = 30), without any personality disorder ( n = 112), and healthy control participants without physical or psychiatric disorders ( n = 60). The Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (SCID-I) and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM, Revised Third Edition Personality Disorders (SCID-II) were used to determine Axis I and Axis II psychiatric disorders, respectively. QoL levels were assessed by means of the World Health Organization QoL Assessment-Brief.

Results

The subscale scores of physical health, psychological health, and social relationships were significantly lower in patients with rheumatological disease regardless of the existence of personality disorder compared with the control participants. Rheumatological patients with a personality disorder had significantly lower subscale scores of psychological health ( p = 0.003) and social relationships ( p < 0.003) compared with patients without any personality disorder.

Conclusions

Personality disorders seem to be a relevant factor that maybe associated with QoL in patients suffering from rheumatological disease.
Hemodynamics of 17-mm vs. 19-mm St. Jude Medical Regent and annulus enlargement
Authors: Prifti Edvin , Bonacchi Massimo , Baboci Arben , Giunti Gabriele , Esposito Giampiero , Krakulli Klodian , Ademaj Fadil , Kajo Efrosina , Vanini Vitttorio
Published: May 2015

Objective

We aimed to compare early and midterm clinical and hemodynamic outcomes of 17-mm vs. 19-mm St. Jude Medical Regent valves with concomitant aortic annulus enlargement.

Methods

Between 1999 and 2012, 20 patients (group 1) underwent first-time aortic valve replacement with a 17-mm St. Jude Medical Regent valve, and 35 patients (group 2) had a 19-mm valve and concomitant aortic annulus enlargement. The mean follow-up was 81 ± 37 months (range 20–110 months).

Results

There was one death in group 1 vs. 4 in group 2 ( p > 0.05). The mean postoperative transprosthetic gradient was 17.5 ± 4.5 in group 1 and 17 ± 6.4 mm Hg in group 2 ( p = 0.83), and 37 ± 10.7 and 32 ± 13 mm Hg, respectively, under stress ( p = 0.17). Left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass index were reduced and similar in both groups. Postoperative effective orifice area index was higher in group 2 (0.85 ± 0.17 cm2 m−2) than group 1 (0.76 ± 0.2 cm2 m−2; p > 0.05). A multivariate Cox model identified a 19-mm valve with aortic annulus enlargement ( p = 0.032), functional class ( p = 0.025), reoperation ( p = 0.04), ejection fraction < 35% ( p = 0.042), and combined surgery ( p = 0.04) as strong predictors of poorer overall event-free survival.

Conclusions

The 17-mm St. Jude Medical Regent valve may be employed with satisfactory postoperative clinical and hemodynamic outcomes in patients with a small aortic annulus, as an alternative to a larger prothesis with aortic annulus enlargement.
Against Agamben: Sovereignty and the Void in the Discourse of the Nation in Early Modern China
Authors: Liu Joyce C.H.
Published: May 2015

In Kingdom and Glory, Agamben analyzed the dual perspective of the void, through the metaphor of the empty throne, in the governmental machine in the West. I engage with the ambiguous question of the void with regard to the concept of sovereignty through my reading of two Chinese intellectuals in the late Qing period, Liang Qichao (1872–1929) and Zhang Taiyan (1869–1936). This paper therefore addresses the question of sovereignty and the void in the discourse of nation in early modern China, an issue that is related to the problem of the political economy or the politics of life. I argue that the rhetorical move in Liang Qichao’s argument for the birth of a new nation and new people was to move from the not-having (無) to the there is (有) in support of the formation of a new nation-state and a restricted logic of sovereignty, while Zhan Taiyan’s position was to affirm the dynamitic re-composition of the void by constantly negating the given fixated state, and thus proposing a different and radical vision of nation and full sovereignty of the lives of each and every one of the people who are co-inhabiting in the polis.
Results of a transparent expert consultation on patient and public involvement in palliative care research
Authors: Daveson Barbara A , de Wolf-Linder Susanne , Witt Jana , Newson Kirstie , Morris Carolyn , Higginson Irene J , Evans Catherine J
Published: May 2015

Background:

Support and evidence for patient, unpaid caregiver and public involvement in research (user involvement) are growing. Consensus on how best to involve users in palliative care research is lacking.

Aim:

To determine an optimal user-involvement model for palliative care research.

Design:

We hosted a consultation workshop using expert presentations, discussion and nominal group technique to generate recommendations and consensus on agreement of importance. A total of 35 users and 32 researchers were approached to attend the workshop, which included break-out groups and a ranking exercise. Descriptive statistical analysis to establish consensus and highlight divergence was applied. Qualitative analysis of discussions was completed to aid interpretation of findings.

Setting/participants:

Participants involved in palliative care research were invited to a global research institute, UK.

Results:

A total of 12 users and 5 researchers participated. Users wanted their involvement to be more visible, including during dissemination, with a greater emphasis on the difference their involvement makes. Researchers wanted to improve productivity, relevance and quality through involvement. Users and researchers agreed that an optimal model should consist of (a) early involvement to ensure meaningful involvement and impact and (b) diverse virtual and face-to-face involvement methods to ensure flexibility.

Conclusion:

For involvement in palliative care research to succeed, early and flexible involvement is required. Researchers should advertise opportunities for involvement and promote impact of involvement via dissemination plans. Users should prioritise adding value to research through enhancing productivity, quality and relevance. More research is needed not only to inform implementation and ensure effectiveness but also to investigate the cost-effectiveness of involvement in palliative care research.
Epidemiology of Overuse Injuries in Collegiate and High School Athletics in the United States
Authors: Roos Karen G. , Marshall Stephen W. , Kerr Zachary Y. , Golightly Yvonne M. , Kucera Kristen L. , Myers Joseph B. , Rosamond Wayne D. , Comstock R. Dawn
Published: May 2015

Background:

Overuse injuries result from microtrauma due to repetitive loading combined with insufficient tissue recovery time and can result in both immediate and long-term time loss from sports.

Hypothesis:

Overuse injury rates and patterns differ across college and high school populations, sport, and sex.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

Surveillance data for 16 sports from the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Injury Surveillance System (NCAA ISS; 2004-2005 through 2008-2009) and 14 sports from High School Reporting Information Online (High School RIO; 2006-2007 through 2012-2013) were analyzed. All reported injuries had an injury mechanism of overuse/gradual onset (college) or overuse/chronic (high school). Overuse injury incidence rates were calculated, and rate ratios with 95% CIs were used to compare subgroups.

Results:

The rate of overuse injury was 3.28 times higher in college than high school sports (95% CI, 3.12-3.44). The rate of overuse injury among sex-comparable sports was higher in female than male athletes in both populations (college rate ratio, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.16-1.35; high school rate ratio, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.43-1.68). The lower extremity was the most commonly injured body site (college, 69.4%; high school, 70.4%). A larger proportion of overuse injuries among college athletes resulted in time loss of more than 21 days (college, 20.4%; high school, 7.7%) and surgery (college, 5.2%, high school, 2.5%).

Conclusion:

Overuse injuries can impose a significant burden on college and high school athletes. Interventions addressing prevention of overuse injury are needed.
Beneficial effects of quercetin on renal injury and oxidative stress caused by ciprofloxacin in rats
Authors: Elbe H , Dogan Z , Taslidere E , Cetin A , Turkoz Y
Published: May 2015

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum quinolone antibiotic commonly used in clinical practice. Quercetin is an antioxidant belongs to flavonoid group. It inhibits the production of superoxide anion. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of quercetin on renal injury and oxidative stress caused by ciprofloxacin. Twenty-eight female Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: control, quercetin (20 mg kg−1 day−1 gavage for 21 days), ciprofloxacin (20 mg kg−1 twice a day intraperitoneally for 10 days), and ciprofloxacin + quercetin. Samples were processed for histological and biochemical evaluations. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities were measured in kidney tissue. The ciprofloxacin group showed histopathological changes such as infiltration, dilatation in tubules, tubular atrophy, reduction of Bowman’s space, congestion, hemorrhage, and necrosis. In the ciprofloxacin + quercetin group, these histopathological changes markedly reduced. MDA levels increased in the ciprofloxacin group and decreased in the ciptofloxacin + quercetin group. SOD and CAT activities and GSH levels significantly decreased in the ciprofloxacin group. On the other hand, in the ciprofloxacin + quercetin group, SOD and CAT activities and GSH levels significantly increased with regard to the ciprofloxacin group. We concluded that quercetin has antioxidative and therapeutic effects on renal injury and oxidative stress caused by ciprofloxacin in rats.
Childhood Sexual Abuse, Attachments in Childhood and Adulthood, and Coercive Sexual Behaviors in Community Males
Authors: Langton Calvin M. , Murad Zuwaina , Humbert Bianca
Published: May 2015

Associations between self-reported coercive sexual behavior against adult females, childhood sexual abuse (CSA), and child–parent attachment styles, as well as attachment with adult romantic partners, were examined among 176 adult community males. Attachment style with each parent and with romantic partners was also investigated as a potential moderator. Using hierarchical multiple regression analysis, avoidant attachment with mothers in childhood (and also with fathers, in a second model) accounted for a significant amount of the variance in coercive sexual behavior controlling for scores on anxious ambivalent and disorganized/disoriented attachment scales, as predicted. Similarly, in a third model, avoidance attachment in adulthood was a significant predictor of coercive sexual behavior controlling for scores on the anxiety attachment in adulthood scale. These main effects for avoidant and avoidance attachment were not statistically significant when CSA and control variables (other types of childhood adversity, aggression, antisociality, and response bias) were added in each of the models. But the interaction between scales for CSA and avoidance attachment in adulthood was significant, demonstrating incremental validity in a final step, consistent with a hypothesized moderating function for attachment in adulthood. The correlation between CSA and coercive sexual behavior was .60 for those with the highest third of avoidance attachment scores (i.e., the most insecurely attached on this scale), .24 for those with scores in the middle range on the scale, and .01 for those with the lowest third of avoidance attachment scores (i.e., the most securely attached). Implications for study design and theory were discussed.
Unresolved trauma in fibromyalgia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Waller Elisabeth , Scheidt Carl E , Endorf Katharina , Hartmann Armin , Zimmermann Peter
Published: May 2015

This study examined the prevalence of unresolved attachment-related trauma and its association with physical and psychological health status in 34 patients with fibromyalgia. Unresolved trauma was assessed with the Adult Attachment Interview. In addition, participants completed self-report measures of childhood trauma, fibromyalgia-related health status and depression. Of the sample, 50 per cent was classified as unresolved on the Adult Attachment Interview. Neither interview-based ratings of unresolved trauma nor self-reported childhood sexual or physical abuse were associated with health outcomes. Only for self-reported emotional abuse, a positive correlation with depression emerged. The implications of the findings are discussed.
A longitudinal interpretative phenomenological analysis of the process of kidney recipients’ resolution of complex ambiguities within relationships with their living donors
Authors: Spiers Johanna , Smith Jonathan A , Drage Martin
Published: May 2015

Much previous research into living kidney donation has focused on the decision-making of the donor, despite evidence suggesting this may be a more psychologically challenging time for the recipient. This longitudinal study explores the experiences of four recipients of kidneys from living donors throughout the transplant process. Transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Three themes arose from the data, which were as follows: changing perceptions of relationships with kidney donors; upbeat, temporal strategies for remaining positive and journey of the self. Findings from the first theme are presented in detail here. It was found that each participants’ relationship with their donor grew and developed in different ways, presenting their own complex challenges in terms of developing relationships and ambiguity around the decision to use the chosen donor.
Enter the bit wars: A study of video game marketing and platform crafting in the wake of the TurboGrafx-16 launch
Authors: Therrien Carl , Picard Martin
Published: May 2015

NEC’s TurboGrafx-16 console, as its very name suggests, was caught in the middle of loaded discourses about technology. In this article, we seek to reflect on the initial encounter between the player and any given platform, the one that occurs through a marketed image. The authors of Digital Play insisted already in 2003 that it is essential to study the interactions between technology and marketing practices to better understand the video game experience. More recently, James Newman has demonstrated the significant role of the discourse produced by the industry and the dedicated video game press in shaping the contemporary culture of material obsolescence. The introduction of the TurboGrafx-16 at the end of the 1980s partakes in a discursive framing of technology whose impact can still be felt in the way we construct history today: It helped solidify the widespread adoption of the biological metaphor (console “generations”), and of the technological warfare rhetoric.
Effect of tool traverse speed on microstructure and mechanical performance of friction stir welded 7020 aluminum alloy
Authors: Barenji Reza Vatankhah
Published: May 2015

The effect of tool traverse speed on microstructure and mechanical properties of friction stir welded 7020-T6 aluminum alloy was investigated. For this purpose, 5 mm thick 7020-T6 aluminum alloy plates were friction stir welded at traverse speeds of 50, 100, 150, and 200 mm/min and constant rotational speed of 900 r/min. Also, the peak temperatures of the joints during friction stir welding were recorded by accurate thermocouples. Moreover, the microstructure, hardness, tensile properties, and fracture surfaces of the joints were examined. The results showed that increasing the tool traverse speeds from 50 to 200 mm/min decreased the peak temperature from 331 ℃ to 211 ℃, and hence caused to lower heat input during friction stir welding. Furthermore, the higher hardness and ultimate tensile strength of the joints welded at higher traverse speeds was related to the grain boundary, precipitation, and substructure strengthening mechanisms. In addition, the fracture surfaces of the joints welded at higher heat input conditions showed more ductile mode in comparison with those welded at lower heat input condition, which confirmed the lower tensile elongation of the joints welded at higher traverse speeds.
A Randomized Controlled Evaluation of the Efficacy of an Ankle-Foot Cast on Walking Recovery Early After Stroke
Authors: Pomeroy Valerie M. , Rowe Philip , Clark Allan , Walker Andrew , Kerr Andrew , Chandler Elizabeth , Barber Mark , Baron Jean-Claude ,   On Behalf of the SWIFT Cast Investigators, Anderson Lindsay , Dounavi Myrto-Despoina , Earl Leo , Gregory Sheila , Havis Claire , Horton Simon , Jones P. Simon , Kaliarntas Konstantinos , Kennedy Niamh , Lane Kathleen , Legg David , Marrapu Siva T. , McColl Emma , Moran Hannah , Schutt Hannah , Smith Jessica , Ugboule U. Chris
Published: May 2015

Background. Timely provision of an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) orthotist customized for individuals early after stroke can be problematic. Objective. To evaluate the efficacy of a therapist-made AFO (SWIFT Cast) for walking recovery. Methods. This was a randomized controlled, observer-blind trial. Participants (n = 105) were recruited 3 to 42 days poststroke. All received conventional physical therapy (CPT) that included use of “off-the-shelf” and orthotist-made AFOs. People allocated to the experimental group also received a SWIFT Cast for up to 6 weeks. Measures were undertaken before randomization, 6 weeks thereafter (outcome), and at 6 months after stroke (follow-up). The primary measure was walking speed. Clinical efficacy evaluation used analysis of covariance. Results. Use of a SWIFT Cast during CPT sessions was significantly higher ( P < .001) for the SWIFT Cast (55%) than the CPT group (3%). The CPT group used an AFO in 26% of CPT sessions, compared with 11% for the SWIFT Cast group ( P = .005). At outcome, walking speed was 0.42 (standard deviation [SD] = 0.37) m/s for the CPT group and 0.32 (SD = 0.34) m/s for the SWIFT Cast group. Follow-up walking speed was 0.53 (SD = 0.38) m/s for the CPT group and 0.43 (0.34) m/s for the SWIFT Cast group. Differences, after accounting for minimization factors, were insignificant at outcome ( P = .345) and follow-up ( P = .360). Conclusion and implications. SWIFT Cast did not enhance the benefit of CPT, but the control group had greater use of another AFO. However, SWIFT Cast remains a clinical option because it is low cost and custom-made by therapists who can readily adapt it during the rehabilitation period.
Lyn sustains oncogenic signaling in chronic lymphocytic leukemia by strengthening SET-mediated inhibition of PP2A
Authors: Zonta Francesca , Pagano Mario Angelo , Trentin Livio , Tibaldi Elena , Frezzato Federica , Trimarco Valentina , Facco Monica , Zagotto Giuseppe , Pavan Valeria , Ribaudo Giovanni , Bordin Luciana , Semenzato Gianpietro , Brunati Anna Maria
Published: May 2015

Key Points

Cytosolic HSP90-bound Lyn mediates resistance to apoptosis by strengthening PP2A/SET interaction in CLL cells. FTY720-analogues antagonizing the PP2A/SET interaction and Lyn inhibitors may provide a therapeutic approach of CLL.
A systematic review of transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Kopolovic Ilana , Ostro Jackie , Tsubota Hideki , Lin Yulia , Cserti-Gazdewich Christine M. , Messner Hans A. , Keir Amy K. , DenHollander Neal , Dzik Walter S. , Callum Jeannie
Published: May 2015

Key Points

Fifty percent of TA-GVHD cases occur in patients who would not be predicted to be at risk for TA-GVHD by current guidelines for blood irradiation. Donor lymphocytes whose HLA antigens are all shared by the recipient dominate in TA-GVHD cases, particularly in immune-competent recipients.
Evolution of chronic renal impairment and long-term mortality after de novo acute kidney injury in the critically ill; a Swedish multi-centre cohort study
Authors: Rimes-Stigare Claire , Frumento Paolo , Bottai Matteo , Mårtensson Johan , Martling Claes-Roland , Walther Sten M , Karlström Göran , Bell Max
Published: May 2015

Introduction

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is common in critical ill populations and its association with high short-term mortality is well established. However, long-term risks of death and renal dysfunction are poorly understood and few studies exclude patients with pre-existing renal disease, meaning outcome for de novo AKI has been difficult to elicit. We aimed to compare the long-term risk of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and mortality in critically ill patients with and without severe de novo AKI.

Method

This cohort study was conducted between 2005 and 2011 in Swedish intensive care units (ICU). Data from 130134 adult patients listed on the Swedish intensive care register-database was linked with other national registries. Patients with pre-existing CKD (4192) and ESRD (1389) were excluded, as were cases (26771) with incomplete data. Patients were classified according to AKI exposure during ICU admission. Outcome in the de novo AKI group was compared to the non-exposed (no-AKI) intensive care control group. Primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Follow-up ranged from one to seven years (median 2.1 years). Secondary outcomes were incidence of CKD and ESRD and median follow-up was 1.3 years.

Results

Of 97 782 patients, 5273 (5.4%) had de novo AKI. These patients had significantly higher crude mortality at one (48.4% vs. 24.6%) and five years (61.8% vs. 39.1%) compared to the control group. The first 30% of deaths in AKI patients occurred within 11 days of ICU admission whilst the 30-centile in the no-AKI group died by 748 days. CKD was significantly more common in AKI survivors at one year (6.0% vs. 0.44%) than in no-AKI group (adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) 7.6). AKI patients also had significantly higher rates of ESRD at one (2.0% vs. 0.08%) and at five years (3.9% vs. 0.3%) than those in the comparison group (adjusted IRR 22.5).

Conclusion

This large cohort study demonstrated that de novo AKI is associated with increased short and long-term risk of death. AKI is independently associated with increased risk of CKD and ESRD as compared to an ICU control population. Severe de novo AKI survivors should be routinely followed-up and their renal function monitored.
Surface physicochemical properties of selected single and mixed cultures of microalgae and cyanobacteria and their relationship with sedimentation kinetics
Authors: Gonçalves Ana L , Ferreira Carla , Loureiro Joana A , Pires José CM , Simões Manuel
Published: May 2015

Background

Microalgae are photosynthetic microorganisms presenting a diversity of biotechnological applications. However, microalgal cultivation systems are not energetically and economically feasible. Possible strategies that can be applied to improve the feasibility of microalgal production include biofouling control in photobioreactors, the use of attached growth systems and bioflocculation. These processes are ruled by surface physicochemical properties. Accordingly, the surface physicochemical properties of Chlorella vulgaris, Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata, Synechocystis salina and Microcystis aeruginosa were determined through contact angle and zeta potential measurements. Additionally, mixed cultures of the selected microorganisms were performed. Sedimentation kinetics of the studied cultures was also evaluated to understand how surface physicochemical properties influence microalgal recovery.

Results

All studied microorganisms, except S. salina, presented a hydrophilic surface. The co-culture of S. salina with the other studied microorganisms resulted in a more hydrophobic algal suspension. Regarding zeta potential determinations, all studied suspensions presented a negatively charged surface (approximately -40.8 ± 4.4 mV). Sedimentation experiments have shown that all microalgal suspensions presented low microalgal recovery efficiencies. However, a negative linear relationship between microalgal removal percentage and free energy of hydrophobic interaction was obtained.

Conclusions

The evidence of a relationship between microalgal removal percentage and free energy of hydrophobic interaction demonstrates the importance of surface physicochemical properties on microalgal settling. However, the low recovery efficiencies achieved, as well as the high net zeta potential values determined, indicate that another factor to consider in microalgal settling is the ionic strength of the culture medium, which play an important role in suspensions’ stability.
Your Foundation donations at work!
Authors: Allison Paul
Published: May 2015

During the year, it is important to thank our donors and recognize the impact of their gifts. SEG programs enjoy philanthropic support from individuals, corporations, affiliate sections, and societies. Today, our 16 Foundation programs are serving new members and new constituencies. The new Halliburton EVOLVE program will kick off this summer and ultimately will serve a combination of early-career professionals and students. Two new funds are open to serve students this year — the Near Surface Research Award Fund and the new Summer Research Workshop Travel Grant. Both of these will be managed by SEG's Student and Early-Career Program staff.
Mapping of alteration zones with seismic-amplitude data and well logs in the hard-rock environment of the Keefe Lake area, Athabasca Basin, Canada
Authors: Takacs Erno , Hajnal Zoltan , Pandit Bhaskar , Annesley Irvine R.
Published: May 2015

Optical televiewer (OTV) and full-wave sonic (FWS) data sets acquired in two boreholes from the Keefe Lake property of Atom Energy Inc. (AEI) provided a unique opportunity to study the lithologic units through analysis of P- and S-wave velocities and elastic rock properties derived from them (Poisson's ratio, lambda, and mu). This approach is a first attempt to describe petrophysical properties for the sandstone sediments and underlying crystalline Proterozoic rocks of the eastern Athabasca Basin. Wireline measurements penetrated through the entire (180-m) thickness of the basin fill and deep into the basement (357 m and 552 m), intersecting several fracture and alteration zones. Such zones are considered possible locations of uranium mineralization in the Athabasca Basin. Seismic attributes (amplitude envelope and cosine instantaneous phase) can be used in the hard-rock environment. The characteristic values of fracture and alteration zones can by analyzed by crossplotting the elastic properties derived from the FWS data. After insertion of the elastic-property logs into the closest seismic section, the probable spatial extents of three anomalous zones revealed in the vicinity of the boreholes are investigated. The results of amplitude-variation-with-offset (AVO) modeling carried out based on petrophysical properties obtained from the basement show that clay-filled fracture zones in the hard-rock environment of the study area are associated with increasing, anomalous AVO responses.
The Geophysical Society of Tulsa
Authors: Roche Steve
Published: May 2015

The Society of Exploration Geophysicists has been known by a couple of names. The Society of Economic Geophysicists, as it was originally named, was founded in 1930 in Houston, Texas. A year later, the name was changed to Society of Petroleum Geophysicists (SPG) as a division of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG). The SPG technical journal, Geophysics, first was published in 1936, and a year later, the society's name was changed to the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG). By the mid-1940s, membership exceeded 1,000, and a business office was established in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Please note that in about 1946, the SEG Constitution was amended to allow local SEG Sections to be formed.
First-rank symptoms: a first-rank diagnostic test?
Authors: Mitchell Alex J.
Published: May 2015

This commentary questions a Cochrane review that examined whether first-rank symptoms are a useful diagnostic tool for differentiating schizophrenia from other psychotic disorders. It concludes that first-rank symptoms are not particularly accurate in this role, although they might be useful initial screening questions in community surveys or waiting-room screening.
What a psychiatrist needs to know about copy number variants
Authors: Kirov George , Rees Elliott , Walters James
Published: May 2015

Copy number variants (CNVs) are structural changes in chromosomes that result in deletions, duplications, inversions or translocations of large DNA segments. Eleven confirmed CNV loci have been identified as rare but important risk factors in schizophrenia. These CNVs are also associated with other neurodevelopmental disorders and medical/physical comorbidities. Although the penetrance of the CNVs for schizophrenia (the chance that CNV carriers will develop the disorder) is modest, the penetrance of CNVs for any early-onset developmental disorder (e.g. intellectual disability or autism) is much higher. Testing for CNVs is now affordable and being used in clinical genetics and neurodevelopmental disorders clinics. It is possible that testing will be expanded to psychiatric clinics. This article provides a clinically relevant overview of recent CNV findings in schizophrenia and related disorders.
Best interests, mental capacity legislation and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Authors: Kelly Brendan D.
Published: May 2015

‘Best interests' is a key principle of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (England and Wales), Mental Capacity Bill (2014) (Northern Ireland) and Mental Health Act 2001 (Ireland), although there are currently proposals to remove ‘best interests' from Irish legislation. Legislation in Scotland refers to ‘benefit’ resulting from interventions. Judicious use of ‘best interests', in line with guidelines that prioritise the person's autonomy, will and preferences, is a powerful way to promote the values and rights that underpin the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and to safeguard the dignity of individuals with mental disorder and/or reduced mental capacity.
Challenges and opportunities in psychiatry today
Authors: Jethwa Ketan Dipak
Published: May 2015

Psychiatry faces a number of external and internal challenges. At the heart of its difficulties is an identity crisis and attempts to resolve this have so far split the specialty. British psychiatry has in recent years taken an increasingly ‘neurophobic’ stance. This article argues that, despite the current situation, opportunities remain for a medicine of the mind to thrive. Neuroscientific advances in our understanding of psychiatric disorders need to be made more explicit in training and in the structure of mental health services.
Eating disorders in children and adolescents
Authors: Nicholls Dasha , Barrett Elizabeth
Published: May 2015

This article provides an overview of classification and outcome of eating disorders, before focusing on current evidence-based treatment for the two main disorders of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
Entangled Economies: New Netherland's Dual Currency System and Its Relation to Iroquois Monetary Practice
Authors: Schmidt Mario
Published: May 2015

The article aims at analyzing the monetary system of the Dutch colony New Netherland. It first carves out the formal structure of the colony's currency system and then goes on to show that the liberalization of New Netherland's economy exacerbated contradictions lurking inside the currency system and thereby fueled political conflicts among the West India Company, colonists, and Native Americans. By analyzing different strategies to deal with this situation, the article proposes that the contradictions could not be resolved, as their cause—economic liberalization—was irreversible. This analysis sets the stage for discussion of a possibility that scholars have not yet explored: Iroquois could have partly shaped the monetization of New Netherland and thus could have been accountable for its failing monetary policy by deliberately controlling the amount of sewant in circulation.
The Life and Afterlife of Ling Zhiyuan (1831–1852) and Her Poetry Collection
Authors: Fong Grace S.
Published: May 2015

This study examines the construction of women's life histories in literary collections through the exemplary case of Ling Zhiyuan 凌祉媛 and her poetry collection, Cuiluoge shici gao 翠螺閣詩詞稿 (Drafts of Poems and Song Lyrics from the Green Snail Shell Loft). Published in 1854 by her young husband Ding Bing (1832–1899) after her untimely death, this small collection is framed by numerous paratexts such as prefaces, verse inscriptions, biographical accounts, and elegies. I explore how Ling's self-representation in her poetry is mediated by these paratexts and show how different readers may have read or interpreted her poems. This essay thus highlights the discursive complexity and kinship and social networks underlying the production and interpretation of life writing in late imperial China.
Fresh Faces for Those Full of Emotions: Zhu Suchen's Qinlou Yue
Authors: Guo Yingde , Ling Xiaoqiao
Published: May 2015

Unlike Zhu Suchen's 朱素臣 (1621?–after 1701) other extant chuanqi plays that survive only in manuscripts, Qinlou yue 秦樓月 (The Moon Shining upon the Qin Tower) was printed in a deluxe woodblock edition during the Kangxi period. This carefully executed imprint features an array of paratextual elements: preface; illustrations with matching poems by prominent seventeenth-century literati figures; a poetry collection by Chen Susu 陳素素, a Yangzhou courtesan cast as the heroine of the play; and an appendix with women writers' poems commenting on Susu's poetry and portrait. Such a design points to an editorial choice to stage both a male-centered literati reading community and a cohort of women writers from the Jiangnan area who gather to celebrate women's literary talent on the book page. By examining how these two bodies of readers reach a sense of solidarity in distinctive ways, this article aims at a better understanding of the xinxi 新戲 (new plays) of Suzhou as an important regional phenomenon of cultural production. Qinlou yue in the book's physical form makes use of the realms of both commercial and private printing to appeal to Ming loyalist sentiments widespread among the southern elite, and to embrace a new sense of womanhood epitomized by women writers and readers who had achieved iconic status in the Jiangnan region.
Robust New Product Pricing
Authors: Handel Benjamin R. , Misra Kanishka
Published: May 2015

We study the pricing decision for a monopolist launching a new innovation. At the time of launch, we assume that the monopolist has incomplete information about the true demand curve. Despite the lack of objective information the firm must set a retail price to maximize total profits. To model this environment, we develop a novel two-period non-Bayesian framework where the monopolist sets the price in each period based only on a nonparametric set of all feasible demand curves. Optimal prices are dynamic as prices in any period allow the firm to learn about demand and improve future pricing decisions. Our main results show that the direction of dynamic introductory prices (versus static prices) depends on the type of heterogeneity in the market. We find that (1) when consumers have homogeneous preferences, introductory dynamic price is higher than the static price; (2) when consumers have heterogeneous preferences and the monopolist has no ex ante information, the introductory dynamic price is the same as the static price; and (3) when consumers have heterogeneous preferences and the monopolist has ex ante information, the introductory dynamic price is lower than the static price. Furthermore, the degree of this initial reduction increases with the amount of heterogeneity in the ex ante information.
Adding by Subtracting: The Relationship Between Performance Feedback and Resource Reconfiguration Through Divestitures
Authors: Vidal Elena , Mitchell Will
Published: May 2015

This paper draws from performance feedback theory and the resource-based view of the firm to study divestiture activity. We argue that the extent and nature of resource reconfiguration through divestiture may be affected by both high and low extremes of performance relative to a firm’s historical aspirations. Based on analysis of divestiture counts, we find that firms with increasing performance, especially when they also have high levels of performance, appear to use divestitures in a “complementary Penrose effect” that frees resources firms can use for future growth, with the greatest impact on the number of partial rather than full divestitures. With more limited data on divestiture value, we find relationships of both increasing and decreasing performance with divestiture activity. The study uses longitudinal segment-level data for firms operating in the global pharmaceutical industry between 1999 and 2009.
The persistence of prey-predator model with competition hosts
Authors: Majeed Azhar A. , Raad Rami
Published: May 2015

In this paper, the conditions of the occurrence of persistence of a mathematical model consists from four-species Syn- Ecosymbiosis involves a competition hosts for prey are established. Finally, in order to confirm our obtained analytical results, numerical simulations have been done for a hypothetical set of parameter values.
Honor the Vietnamese, Not Those Who Killed Them
Authors: Yates Michael D.
Published: May 2015

In a letter to Vietnam War veteran Charles McDuff, Major General Franklin Davis, Jr. said, "The United States Army has never condoned wanton killing or disregard for human life." McDuff had written a letter to President Richard Nixon in January 1971, telling him that he had witnessed U.S. soldiers abusing and killing Vietnamese civilians and informing him that many My Lais had taken place during the war. He pleaded with Nixon to bring the killing to an end. The White House sent the letter to the general, and this was his reply.&hellp; McDuff's letter and Davis's response are quoted in Nick Turse's Kill Anything That Moves: The Real American War in Vietnam, the most recent book to demonstrate beyond doubt that the general's words were a lie.&hellp; In what follows, I use Turse's work, along with several other books, articles, and films, as scaffolds from which to construct an analysis of how the war was conducted, what its consequences have been for the Vietnamese, how the nature of the war generated ferocious opposition to it (not least by a brave core of U.S. soldiers), how the war's history has been whitewashed, and why it is important to both know what happened in Vietnam and why we should not forget it.

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The Scars of the Ghetto
Authors: Hansberry Lorraine
Published: May 2015

The article that appears below is reprinted from the February 1965 issue of Monthly Review. Despite her small body of work and short life, Lorraine Hansberry (1930–1965) is considered one of the great African-American dramatists of the twentieth century. Her play A Raisin in the Sun (1959) is required reading, and performed regularly, in high schools and colleges nationwide, as well as on Broadway and London's West End. Hansberry's association with the left, and especially with Monthly Review, began in her teenage years. When she moved to New York, she became good friends with Leo Huberman and Paul M. Sweezy. In spring 1964, although terminally ill with pancreatic cancer, she left her hospital bed to speak at a benefit for Monthly Review Press; her speech appeared posthumously as the article below.

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Underground Lead-Zinc Mine Production Planning Using Fuzzy Stochastic Inventory Policy / Planowanie Wydobycia Cynku I Ołowiu W Kopalniach Podziemnych Z Wykorzystaniem Podejścia Stochastycznego Z Elementami Logiki Rozmytej Do Określania Niezbędnego Poziomu Zapasów
Authors: Gligoric Zoran , Beljic Cedomir , Gluscevic Branko , Cvijovic Cedomir
Published: May 2015

Methodology for long-term underground lead-zinc mine planning based on fuzzy inventory theory is presented in this paper. We developed a fuzzy stochastic model of inventory control problem for planning lead-zinc ore production under uncertainty. The final purpose of this article is to find the optimal quantity of mined ore that should be stockpiled, in order to enable “feeding” of mineral processing plant in cases when the production in underground mine is interrupted, by using Possibilistic mean value of fuzzy number for defuzzing the fuzzy total annual inventory costs, and by using Extension of the Lagrangean method for solving inequality constrain problem. The different types of costs involved in mined ore inventory problems affect the efficiency of production scheduling. Dynamic nature of lead and zinc metal price is described by Ornstein-Uhlenbeck stochastic mean reverting process. The model is illustrated with a numerical example.
Application of Relevance Maps in Multidimensional Classification of Coal Types / Zastosowanie Map Odniesienia W Wielowymiarowej Klasyfikacji Typów Węgla
Authors: Niedoba Tomasz
Published: May 2015

Multidimensional data visualization methods are a modern tool allowing to classify some analyzed objects. In the case of grained materials e.g. coal, many characteristics have an influence on the material quality. In case of coal, apart from most obvious features like particle size, particle density or ash contents there are many others which cause significant differences between considered types of material. The paper presents the possibility of applying visualization techniques for coal type identification and determination of significant differences between various types of coal. Author decided to apply relevance maps to achieve this purpose. Three types of coal - 31, 34.2 and 35 (according to Polish classification of coal types) were investigated, which were initially screened on sieves and then divided into density fractions. Then, each size-density fraction was chemically analyzed to obtain other characteristics. It was stated that the applied methodology allows to identify certain coal types efficiently and can be used as a qualitative criterion for grained materials. However, it was impossible to achieve such identification comparing all three types of coal together. The presented methodology is new way of analyzing data concerning widely understood mineral processing.
Intelligent, Energy Saving Power Supply and Control System of Hoisting Mine Machine with Compact and Hybrid Drive System / Inteligentne, Energooszczędne Układy Zasilania I Sterowania Górniczych Maszyn Wyciągowych Z Napędem Zintegrowanym Lub Hybrydowym
Authors: Szymański Zygmunt
Published: May 2015

In the paper present’s an analysis of suitableness an application of compact and hybrid drive system in hoisting machine. In the paper presented the review of constructional solutions of hoisting machines drive system, driving with AC and DC motor. In the paper presented conception of modern, energy sparing hoisting machine supply system, composed with compact motor, an supplied with transistor or thyristor converter supply system, and intelligent control system composed with multilevel microprocessor controller. In the paper present’s also analysis of suitableness application an selected method of artificial intelligent in hoisting machine control system, automation system, and modern diagnostic system. In the paper one limited to analysis of: fuzzy logic method, genetic algorithms method, and modern neural net II and III generation. That method enables realization of complex control algorithms of hosting machine with insurance of energy sparing exploitation conditions, monitoring of exploitation parameters, and prediction diagnostic of hoisting machine technical state, minimization a number of failure states. In the paper present’s a conception of control and diagnostic system of the hoisting machine based on fuzzy logic neural set control. In the chapter presented also a selected control algorithms and results of computer simulations realized for particular mathematical models of hoisting machine. Results of theoretical investigation were partly verified in laboratory and industrial experiments.
A case of savant syndrome in a child with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Finocchiaro Maria , Di Blasi Francesco Domenico , Zuccarello Rosa , Costanzo Angela Antonia , Cantagallo Claudia , Amata Maria Teresa , Zingale Marinella , Elia Maurizio
Published: May 2015

: Savant syndrome is a rare condition, in which persons with serious intellectual disabilities demonstrate extraordinary capacities or abilities in contrast to their overall disability. This paper presents the savant abilities of a child with autism spectrum disorder, who showed exceptional arithmetic skills and higher word decoding ability.

: A protocol of academic skills evaluation was administered. Assessment of calculation skills included tests on written calculations; numerical knowledge indicating the semantic, syntactic and lexical level; and accuracy and speed measurement.

: Performances in number elaboration showed an adequate access to semantic and verbal number information. In the written and mental calculation task and in fact retrieval, implicating calculation strategies and information retrieval, processes were automatized.

The data gathered show that the child’s performance both for number elaboration and calculation procedures is higher than the school grade attended, typical of people with exceptional abilities.
Transformations of spatial relationships in elementary education: A case study of changes in two Czech rural areas since the second half of the 20th century
Authors: Kučerová Silvie R. , Bláha Jan D. , Kučera Zdeněk
Published: May 2015

Transformations in the spatial organization of elementary education in the Czech Republic over the last 50 years are examined in this article, via case studies of two rural regions (Turnov district and Zábřeh district). The aim of the study is to investigate the impact of general development trends in elementary schools in territorial detail. Changes in the spatial distribution of schools, the size of school catchment areas, and the main education-related commuter flows are analyzed and visualized in cartographic form, in the context of educational policy and management.
Enhanced resonant second harmonic generation in plasma based on density transition
Authors: Kant Niti , Thakur Vishal
Published: May 2015

Resonant second harmonic generation of a relativistic self-focusing laser in plasma with density ramp profile has been investigated. A high intense Gaussian laser beam generates resonant second harmonic beam in plasma with density ramp profile. The second harmonic undergoes periodic focusing in the plasma channel created by the fundamental wave. The normalized second harmonic amplitude varies periodically with distance and attains maximum value in the focal region. Enhancement in the second harmonic amplitude on account of relativistic self-focusing of laser based on plasma density transition is seen. Plasma density ramp plays an important role to make self-focusing stronger which leads to enhance the second harmonic generation in plasma.