bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostics of Thyroid Malignancy and Indications for Surgery in the Elderly and Younger Counterparts: Comparison of 3,749 Patients
Authors: Kaliszewski Krzysztof , Diakowska Dorota , Strutyńska-Karpińska Marta , Wojtczak Beata , Aporowicz Michał , Forkasiewicz Zdzisław , Balcerzak Waldemar , Łukieńczuk Tadeusz , Domosławski Paweł
Published: October 2017

Background. It seems valuable for clinicians to know if diagnostics of thyroid malignancy (TM) and indications for surgery in the elderly patients differ from these in younger counterparts. Materials and Methods. Retrospective analysis of the medical records of 3,749 patients surgically treated for thyroid tumor. Data of patients with histopathology confirmed TM (n=309) were studied. Results. The rate of cytological prediction to malignancy was more than three times higher in elderly women. Compression was a main reason for surgery in the elderly (p<0.0001). The final diagnosis of malignancy was significantly higher in older women (p=0.002). Clinical suspicion of malignancy was positively correlated with histopathological diagnosis in total group of women (r=0.543, p<0.001) and total group of men (r=0.560, p<0.001). The subgroup of the eldest TM patients included a significantly higher number of subjects with advanced cancer and primary tumor progression (p<0.0001). Distant metastases were significantly more presented among the elderly patients (p=0.032). Conclusions. The rate of cytological prediction to malignancy in elderly women is high. Tracheal compression is a common surgical indication in the elderly patients. The final diagnoses of malignancy predominate in elderly women. The oldest TM patients present a higher number of advanced thyroid tumors and distant metastases.
Hyperphosphatemic Tumoral Calcinosis after Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Mochizuki Takeshi , Ikari Katsunori
Published: October 2017

We report a case of hyperphosphatemic tumoral calcinosis (TC) that occurred after total knee arthroplasty. A 64-year-old Japanese man presented with painful swellings in both shoulders, the left elbow, and the right hip that developed after he underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The pathology of the patient’s bone at the time of TKA included a thick osteoid seam with calcareous deposition at the margin of the trabecular bone, which is not generally seen in osteoarthritis. Computed tomography scans of the swollen joints demonstrated leaflet and amorphous calcification masses around the joints. We diagnosed the patient with TC. The present case highlights that TC lesions are rare but should be considered in the differential diagnosis of subcutaneous soft and hard masses around the joint.
A Review of the Combination Therapy of Low Frequency Ultrasound with Antibiotics
Authors: Cai Yun , Wang Jin , Liu Xu , Wang Rui , Xia Lei
Published: October 2017

Single antimicrobial therapy has been unable to resist the global spread of bacterial resistance. Literatures of availablein vitroandin vivostudies were reviewed and the results showed that low frequency ultrasound (LFU) has a promising synergistic bactericidal effect with antibiotics against both planktonic and biofilm bacteria. It also can facilitate the release of antibiotics from medical implants. As a noninvasive and targeted therapy, LFU has great potential in treating bacterial infections. However, more in-depth and detailed studies are still needed before LFU is officially applied as a combination therapy in the field of anti-infective treatment.
Uninformative Biological Variability Elimination in Apple Soluble Solids Content Inspection by Using Fourier Transform Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Combined with Multivariate Analysis and Wavelength Selection Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Lin , Zhang Baohua , Zhou Jun , Gu Baoxing , Tian Guangzhao
Published: October 2017

Uninformative biological variability elimination methods were studied in the near-infrared calibration model for predicting the soluble solids content of apples. Four different preprocessing methods, namely, Savitzky-Golay smoothing, multiplicative scatter correction, standard normal variate, and mean normalization, as well as their combinations were conducted on raw Fourier transform near-infrared spectra to eliminate the uninformative biological variability. Subsequently, robust calibration models were established by using partial least squares regression analysis and wavelength selection algorithms. Results indicated that the partial least squares calibration models with characteristic variables selected by CARS method coupled with preprocessing of Savitzky-Golay smoothing and multiplicative scatter correction had a considerable potential for predicting apple soluble solids content regardless of the biological variability.
Scattering of Electric Field from Leaky Coaxial Cable in Confined Area
Authors: Saleem Asad , Wang Min , Zheng Guoxin
Published: October 2017

The new radiation model for the electric field scattering of single leaky coaxial cable (LCX) being a transmitting antenna in the rectangular blind zone at 1.8 GHz is reported. The effect of varying the receiving antenna distance from the LCX on the fluctuation of radiated field using Ray-Tracing Method is examined. The line of sight and reflected paths between the LCX and receiving antenna for both horizontal and vertical polarizations are considered. Furthermore, it is inferred that the selection of appropriate period of slots and distance of the receiver reduce the fluctuations of electric field. The theory and procedures used in this paper can be extrapolated in different slot patterns of the LCX and zones which have many valuable applications for mobile communication in underground mines, tunnels, and railways.
Reconstruction of a Damaged Lower Polar Artery for Kidney Transplantation Using Tubularised Donor Aorta
Authors: Vicéns-Morton A. J. , Callaghan C. , Olsburgh J.
Published: October 2017

Introduction. Live donors, extended donor criteria, and the maximum usage of organs with anatomical variants are some of the mechanisms used to increase the number of organs available. Case. We present the case of a kidney transplant, in which the organ had an iatrogenic injury to a lower pole arterial branch during retrieval. The donor was a 35-year-old male (DCD, Maastricht III). The right kidney was accepted; it had three veins in a single cava patch and three renal arteries, the main artery with aorta patch that is 8 cm long. A small lower pole artery was sectioned during retrieval surgery at approximately 1 cm from its origin as well as a third small mid-lower pole artery. The lower pole damaged artery was reconstructed using tubularised aorta patch to a total length of 5 cm. No additional donor vessels had been sent. After construction of the tubulised aorta, E-E anastomosis to the damaged polar artery was done with interrupted 7-0 Prolene sutures. Conclusion. While the waiting list for a kidney continues to rise and we continue to have organ shortness, vascular retrieval injury should not be an absolute contraindication for transplant.
Multiorder Fusion Data Privacy-Preserving Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Xie Mingshan , Bai Yong , Huang Mengxing , Hu Zhuhua
Published: October 2017

Privacy-preserving in wireless sensor networks is one of the key problems to be solved in practical applications. It is of great significance to solve the problem of data privacy protection for large-scale applications of wireless sensor networks. The characteristics of wireless sensor networks make data privacy protection technology face serious challenges. At present, the technology of data privacy protection in wireless sensor networks has become a hot research topic, mainly for data aggregation, data query, and access control of data privacy protection. In this paper, multiorder fusion data privacy-preserving scheme (MOFDAP) is proposed. Random interference code, random decomposition of function library, and cryptographic vector are introduced for our proposed scheme. In multiple stages and multiple aspects, the difficulty of cracking and crack costs are increased. The simulation results demonstrate that, compared with the typical Slice-Mix-AggRegaTe (SMART) algorithm, the algorithm proposed in this paper has a better data privacy-preserving ability when the traffic load is not very heavy.
Effect of Calcium Channel Blockers on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Systematic Review
Authors: Salman Muhammad , Khan Amer Hayat , Syed Sulaiman Syed Azhar , Khan Junaid Habib , Hussain Khalid , Shehzadi Naureen
Published: October 2017

Background. Numerous medications are known to be associated with the development of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). One such medication group is calcium channel blockers (CCB). Objective. To critically examine the literature regarding the involvement of CCB in manifestation of LUTS in humans. Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed, SciELO, Scopus, and OpenGrey databases to find all potentially relevant research studies before August 2016. Results. Five studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Three out of five studies stated that CCB were involved in either precipitation or exacerbation of LUTS. As for the remaining two studies, one study found out that only the monotherapy of CCB was associated with increased prevalence of nocturia and voiding symptoms in young females, whereas the other study reported an inverse association of CCB with LUTS. The methodological quality of studies was considered high for four studies and low for one study. Conclusion. Healthcare providers should make efforts for an earlier identification of the individuals at risk of LUTS prior to the commencement of CCB therapy. Moreover, patients should be counselled to notify their healthcare provider if they notice urinary symptoms after the initiation of CCB.
Root-Securing and Brain-Fortifying Liquid Upregulates Caveolin-1 in Cell Model with Alzheimer’s Disease through Inhibiting Tau Phosphorylation
Authors: Yuan Depei , Zeng Chuhua , Chen Qianfeng , Wang Fengjie , Yuan Lin , Zhu Yaoqian , Shu Ziyang , Chen Ning
Published: October 2017

In order to explore the effect of root-securing and brain-fortifying Liquid- (RSBFL-) mediated caveolin-1 (CAV-1) on phosphorylation of Tau protein and to uncover underlying mechanisms of RSBFL for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), hippocampal neurons isolated from neonatal SD rats and cultured in DMEM-F12 medium were induced by exogenous Aβ1–42 to establish a cell model with AD. Meanwhile, pEGFP-C1-CAV1 and CAV1-shRNA plasmids were transfected into hippocampal neurons for CAV-1 overexpression and silence, respectively. The serum containing RSBFL was prepared for the intervention of AD model cells. The expression of CAV-1, GSK-3β, and p-Tau in normal hippocampal neurons and AD model cells in the presence of serum containing RSBFL was evaluated. The model hippocampal neurons with AD induced by Aβ1–42 revealed an obvious CAV-1 inhibition, enhanced GSK-3βactivity, and abnormal Tau phosphorylation. In contrast, the treatment with serum containing RSBFL could upregulate CAV-1 in AD hippocampal neurons (P<0.05) with improved p-GSK-3βSer9and reduced p-GSK-3βTyr216(P<0.01), as well as suppressed abnormal phosphorylation of Tau protein. Therefore, RSBFL has an excellent protective effect on hippocampal neurons through increasing CAV-1 expression, inhibiting GSK-3βactivity, and reducing excessive abnormal phosphorylation of Tau protein.
A Study on the Dynamic Behaviour of Lightweight Gears
Authors: Shweiki Shadi , Palermo Antonio , Mundo Domenico
Published: October 2017

This paper investigates the dynamic effects of mass reduction on a pair of spur gears. A one-Degree-of-Freedom (DOF) model of a mechanical oscillator with clearance-type nonlinearity and linear viscous damping is used to perform the investigations. One-dimensional (1D) gear pair models aim at studying the torsional gear vibrations around the rotational axes and can be used to simulate either gear whine or gear rattle phenomena. High computational efficiency is reached by using a spring-damper element with variable stiffness to model the gear meshing process. The angle-dependent mesh stiffness function is computed in a preparation phase through detailed Finite Element (FE) simulations and then stored in a lookup table, which is then interpolated during the dynamic simulation allowing for high computational efficiency. Nonlinear contact effects and influence of material discontinuities due to lightweighting are taken into account by FE simulations with high level of detail. Finally, the influence of gear body topology is investigated through a sensitivity analysis, in which analytical functions are defined to describe the time-varying mesh stiffness.
Exclusive Enteral Nutrition Induces Remission in Pediatric Crohn’s Disease via Modulation of the Gut Microbiota
Authors: Gong Dawei , Yu Xinjuan , Wang Lili , Kong Lingling , Gong Xiaojie , Dong Quanjiang
Published: October 2017

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) has been proven to be effective and safe in treating pediatric Crohn’s disease (CD). EEN induces pediatric CD remission possibly through three pathways: (1) direct anti-inflammatory effects, (2) improved epithelial barrier function, and (3) modulation of the gut microbiota. Recent studies have demonstrated that modulation of the gut microbiota plays a major role in EEN-induced remission. Variations of microbial components, which directly influence the diversity and metabolic functions of the gut microbiota, are closely associated with the immunological conditions of the gut and the susceptibility to diseases. The reduction of proinflammatory microbial components and harmful microbial metabolites after EEN treatment greatly decreases the inflammatory injuries of the gut.
Quercetin Pretreatment Attenuates Hepatic Ischemia Reperfusion-Induced Apoptosis and Autophagy by Inhibiting ERK/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Wu Liwei , Zhang Qinghui , Dai Weiqi , Li Sainan , Feng Jiao , Li Jingjing , Liu Tong , Xu Shizan , Wang Wenwen , Lu Xiya , Yu Qiang , Chen Kan , Xia Yujing , Lu Jie , Zhou Yingqun , Fan Xiaoming , Guo Chuanyong
Published: October 2017

Background. Hepatic ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury is a common phenomenon in transplantation or trauma. The aim of the present study was to determine the protective effect of quercetin (QE) on hepatic IR injury via the ERK/NF-κB pathway.Methods. Mice were randomized into the sham, IR, QE100 + IR, and QE200 + IR groups. Quercetin was administered intragastrically daily at two doses (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) for 5 days prior to IR injury. The expression levels of liver enzymes, inflammatory cytokines, and other marker proteins were determined at 2, 8, and 24 hours after IR. And they were compared among these groups.Results. Compared with the IR group, the treatment of QE reduced the release of cytokines, leading to inhibition of apoptosis and autophagy via downregulation of the ERK/NF-κB pathway in this model of hepatic IR injury.Conclusion. Apoptosis and autophagy caused by hepatic IR injury were inhibited by QE following a reduction in the release of inflammatory cytokines, and the relationship between the two may be associated with inactivation of the ERK/NF-κB pathway.
Symptomatic Patent Foramen Ovale with Hemidiaphragm Paralysis
Authors: Ibrahim Hussain , Khan Adnan , Nishi Shawn P. , Fujise Ken , Gilani Syed
Published: October 2017

Dyspnea accounts for more than one-fourth of the hospital admissions from Emergency Department. Chronic conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Congestive Heart Failure, and Asthma are being common etiologies. Less common etiologies include conditions such as valvular heart disease, pulmonary embolism, and right-to-left shunt (RLS) from patent foramen ovale (PFO). PFO is present in estimated 20–30% of the population, mostly a benign condition. RLS via PFO usually occurs when right atrium pressure exceeds left atrium pressure. RLS can also occur in absence of higher right atrium pressure. We report one such case that highlights the importance of high clinical suspicion, thorough evaluation, and percutaneous closure of the PFO leading to significant improvement in the symptoms.
Activation of Signaling Cascades by Weak Extremely Low Frequency Electromagnetic Fields
Authors: Kapri-Pardes Einat , Hanoch Tamar , Maik-Rachline Galia , Murbach Manuel , Bounds Patricia L. , Kuster Niels , Seger Rony
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Results from recent studies suggest that extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) interfere with intracellular signaling pathways related to proliferative control. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), central signaling components that regulate essentially all stimulated cellular processes, include the extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) that are extremely sensitive to extracellular cues. Anti-phospho-ERK antibodies serve as a readout for ERK1/2 activation and are able to detect minute changes in ERK stimulation. The objective of this study was to explore whether activation of ERK1/2 and other signaling cascades can be used as a readout for responses of a variety of cell types, both transformed and non-transformed, to ELF-MF. Methods: We applied ELF-MF at various field strengths and time periods to eight different cell types with an exposure system housed in a tissue culture incubator and followed the phosphorylation of MAPKs and Akt by western blotting. Results: We found that the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 is increased in response to ELF-MF. However, the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 is likely too low to induce ELF-MF-dependent proliferation or oncogenic transformation. The p38 MAPK was very slightly phosphorylated, but JNK or Akt were not. The effect on ERK1/2 was detected for exposures to ELF-MF strengths as low as 0.15 µT and was maximal at ∼10 µT. We also show that ERK1/2 phosphorylation is blocked by the flavoprotein inhibitor diphenyleneiodonium, indicating that the response to ELF-MF may be exerted via NADP oxidase similar to the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in response to microwave radiation. Conclusions: Our results further indicate that cells are responsive to ELF-MF at field strengths much lower than previously suspected and that the effect may be mediated by NADP oxidase. However, the small increase in ERK1/2 phosphorylation is probably insufficient to affect proliferation and oncogenic transformation. Therefore, the results cannot be regarded as proof of the involvement of ELF-MF in cancer in general or childhood leukemia in particular.
Biocharacterization of Heat Shock Protein 90 in Acetaminophen-Treated Livers Without Conspicuous Drug Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Wu Ka , Guo Chao , Su Min , Wu Xinmou , Li Rong
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Acetaminophen (APAP) refers to a medication used to manage pain and fever symptoms. Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is to be expressed during various stresses, such as wound healing and tissue remodeling. Recently, it is discovered that Hsp90 is a potential modifier of cytogenesis. In comparison to clinical references of liver damage, this study was designed to assess the potential bioeffect of Hsp90 in APAP-treated livers without conspicuous drug induced liver injury (DILI). Methods: In our current study, human plasma samples of APAP-used patients were collected for biochemical assays in clinical parameters. Adult male mice were used to investigate the biocharacterization of Hsp90 in APAP-treated livers through serological tests and immunoassays. Further, a mouse liver cell strain was employed in assessment of bioeffect of APAP on hepatocellular Hsp90 expression. Results: Correspondingly, the clinical data showed APAP-administered patients resulted in increased Hsp90 levels in serum when compared to other clinical parameters of liver injury. In adult mice study, APAP-treated livers showed unchanged hepatocellular and metabolic functions, as highlighted in biochemical analysis and immunoassay. Notably, Hsp90 expression in APAP-treated mice were elevated in the serum and liver samples. In quantitative western blot assay, the present data suggested that hepatocellular Hsp90 level was up-regulated followed by APAP treatment. In mouse cell strain study, APAP-treated liver cells had increased trend of aminotransferase contents and apoptotic counts. Further, endogenous Hsp90 expression in APAP-exposed cells was increased dose- and time-dependently. Conclusions: In conclusion, our current findings disclose that Hsp90 biomolecule may be a potential indicator for APAP-induced inconspicuous DILI, in which it seems to be characterized with more sensitive than other diagnosis criteria.
ST-Elevation Magnitude Correlates With Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Conduction Delay in Type I Brugada ECG
Authors: Leong Kevin M.W. , Ng Fu Siong , Yao Cheng , Roney Caroline , Taraborrelli Patricia , Linton Nicholas W.F. , Whinnett Zachary I. , Lefroy David C. , Davies D. Wyn , Boon Lim Phang , Harding Sian E. , Peters Nicholas S. , Kanagaratnam Prapa , Varnava Amanda M.
Published: October 2017

Background:

The substrate location and underlying electrophysiological mechanisms that contribute to the characteristic ECG pattern of Brugada syndrome (BrS) are still debated. Using noninvasive electrocardiographical imaging, we studied whole heart conduction and repolarization patterns during ajmaline challenge in BrS individuals.

Methods and Results:

A total of 13 participants (mean age, 44±12 years; 8 men), 11 concealed patients with type I BrS and 2 healthy controls, underwent an ajmaline infusion with electrocardiographical imaging and ECG recordings. Electrocardiographical imaging activation recovery intervals and activation timings across the right ventricle (RV) body, outflow tract (RVOT), and left ventricle were calculated and analyzed at baseline and when type I BrS pattern manifested after ajmaline infusion. Peak J-ST point elevation was calculated from the surface ECG and compared with the electrocardiographical imaging–derived parameters at the same time point. After ajmaline infusion, the RVOT had the greatest increase in conduction delay (5.4±2.8 versus 2.0±2.8 versus 1.1±1.6 ms;
P
=0.007) and activation recovery intervals prolongation (69±32 versus 39±29 versus 21±12 ms;
P
=0.0005) compared with RV or left ventricle. In controls, there was minimal change in J-ST point elevation, conduction delay, or activation recovery intervals at all sites with ajmaline. In patients with BrS, conduction delay in RVOT, but not RV or left ventricle, correlated to the degree of J-ST point elevation (Pearson
R
, 0.81;
P
<0.001). No correlation was found between J-ST point elevation and activation recovery intervals prolongation in the RVOT, RV, or left ventricle.

Conclusions:

Magnitude of ST (J point) elevation in the type I BrS pattern is attributed to degree of conduction delay in the RVOT and not prolongation in repolarization time.
Climatological Beam Propagation Conditions for China’s Weather Radar Network
Authors: Wang Hongyan , Wang Gaili , Liu Liping
Published: October 2017

The vertical refractivity gradient (VRG) is critical to weather radar beam propagation. The most common method of calculating beam paths uses the 4/3 Earth radius model, which corresponds to standard refraction conditions. In the present work, to better document propagation conditions for radar electromagnetic waves, which is essential for hydrology and numerical weather forecast models to more fully benefit from observations taken from the new-generation weather radar network in China, VRG spatial and temporal variations in the first kilometers above the surface are explored using 6-yr sounding observations. Under the effects of both regional climatic and topographic conditions, VRG values for most of the radars are generally smaller than those of the standard conditions for much of the year. There are similar or slightly larger values at only a few radar sites. Smaller VRG values are more frequent and widespread, especially during rainy seasons when weather radar observations are important. In such conditions, beam heights estimated using standard atmospheric refraction are overestimated relative to actual heights for most of the radars. Underestimates are much less common and of much shorter duration. However, height deviations are acceptable for being well within the uncertainty of radar echo height owing to the ~1° beamwidth. In coastal areas and the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, radar observations should be applied with much more caution because of the greater risk of beam blockage and clutter contamination.
Failure of Outpatient Management With Different Observation Times After Racemic Epinephrine for Croup
Authors: Smith Nadine , Giordano Kathryn , Thompson Amy , DePiero Andrew
Published: October 2017

Background. Observation is necessary following racemic epinephrine (RE) for patients with croup. The ideal length of this observation period is unclear. Objective. To compare the rate of failed outpatient management utilizing different observation times after RE administration for croup. Methods. We performed a retrospective chart review of children with croup who required RE. Failure of treatment was defined as requiring a second RE treatment and/or returning to the pediatric emergency department for croup symptoms within 24 hours of discharge. Results. The primary analysis considered patients observed between 2.1 and 3 hours compared with those observed for 3.1 to 4 hours. The patients in the 2.1- to 3-hour group had a higher rate of treatment failure (16.7% vs 7.1%, OR = 2.44, P < .01). Conclusions. Patients requiring RE for croup are more likely to have treatment failure if observed for between 2.1 and 3 hours as opposed to 3.1 to 4 hours.
Mental illness stigma among medical students and teachers
Authors: Janoušková Miroslava , Weissová Aneta , Formánek Tomáš , Pasz Jiří , Bankovská Motlová Lucie
Published: October 2017

Background:

Medical school curriculum contributes to future doctors’ attitude formation towards people with mental illness.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to compare stigmatizing attitudes between medical students and faculty, analyse stigmatizing attitudes among students from different years of study and identify factors predicting stigma.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study with the use of scales measuring attitudes and social distance was designed. Online questionnaires were distributed to all students and teachers at a medical faculty in the Czech Republic.

Results:

The response rate was 32.1% ( n = 308) among students and 26.7% ( n = 149) among teachers. Teachers had a greater prevalence of stigmatizing attitudes than students. Increased tolerant attitudes in students were detected after the fourth year, that is, following introduction to psychiatry. Preferred specialization in psychiatry and attending two psychiatry courses predicted more tolerant attitudes. Among both students and teachers, men possessed more stigmatizing attitudes towards people with mental illness. Age was an important predictor of stigmatizing attitudes among teachers.

Conclusion:

Educators should pay closer attention to the role of medical psychology and communication training implementation, which may be beneficial to improving skills and increasing medical students’ self-esteem and feeling of competence throughout their psychiatry rotation.
Skeletal Muscle Toolbox
Authors: Gropp Kathryn E.
Published: October 2017

Evaluation of skeletal muscle frequently combines morphologic and morphometric techniques. As is the case with many organ systems, skeletal muscle has limited responses to insult or injury. Over the past several years, crucial interactions between skeletal muscle, bone, and the nervous system have been described. The aim of this lecture was to give attendees the necessary background information in basic skeletal muscle morphology, important species differences, introduction to skeletal muscle biomarkers, approaches to morphologic and morphometric evaluation, and examples of background findings and typical responses of skeletal muscle to insult or injury.
Generational victimhood in post-apartheid South Africa
Authors: Adonis Cyril K
Published: October 2017

In post-apartheid South Africa, insufficient consideration is given to how historical injustices affect current generations and how they could affect future generations. This has implications for issues such as intergenerational justice and equity. Framed within historical trauma theory and the life-course perspective, this paper explores notions of victimhood in post-apartheid Africa. It draws on qualitative interviews conducted with 20 children and grandchildren (10 females and 10 males) of victims of apartheid-era gross human rights violations. The interview data, which were interpretively analysed, yielded a number of salient themes. Participants’ sense of victimhood is anchored in their continuing socio-economic marginalisation deriving from the structural legacy of apartheid, as well as the pervasive racism that continues to bedevil South Africa well into the post-apartheid era. This is compounded by the perceived lack of accountability for historical injustices and the responsibilities that they perceive the government to have towards them. Given this, the paper argues for a reconceptualisation of the notion of victimhood and giving greater consideration to the impact that the structural legacy of apartheid has on the contemporary existential realities of Black South Africans.
Is RateMyProfessors.com Unbiased? A Look at the Impact of Social Modelling on Student Online Reviews of Marketing Classes
Authors: Ackerman David , Chung Christina
Published: October 2017

This article looks at how marketing student ratings of instructors and classes on online rating sites such as RateMyProfessor.com can be biased by prior student ratings of that class. Research has identified potential sources of bias of online student reviews administered by universities. Less has been done on the sources of bias inherent in a ratings site where those doing the rating can see prior ratings. To measure how student online ratings of a course can be influenced by existing online ratings, the study used five different prior ratings experiment conditions: mildly negative prior ratings, strongly negative prior ratings, mildly positive prior ratings, strongly positive prior ratings, and a control condition of no prior ratings. Results of this study suggest prior online ratings, both positive and negative, do affect subsequent online ratings and bias them. There are several implications. First, both negative and positive ratings can have an impact biasing subsequent ratings. Second, sometimes negative prior ratings must be strong in valence in order to bias subsequent ratings whereas even mildly positive ratings can have an impact. Last, this bias can potentially influence student course selection.
Afterword: Village space and the experience of difference and hierarchy between normative orders
Authors: Stasch Rupert
Published: October 2017

This afterword traces certain shared themes across the studies in this special issue and my research on village formation among Korowai of Indonesian Papua. I focus on what Chio describes as the ‘relationality’ of the rural, especially villages’ intense but diverse forms of global connectedness. I suggest our common subject is how rural people think about their place in history by thinking about space. More specifically, I argue that spatial forms are sites through which people engage with difference and hierarchy of normative orders, including not only relations of otherness and inequality between villages and urban centres but also forms of otherness and evaluative hierarchy ‘internal’ to rural spaces and personal subjectivity.
Rapid Repeat Birth: Intersections Between Meaning-Making and Situational Support Among Multiparous Adolescent Mothers
Authors: Reddy Julia , Mistry Jayanthi , Jacobs Francine
Published: October 2017

This study examined interpretations of motherhood among adolescents who have experienced rapid repeat births (second births within 24 months of the primiparous birth). Analyses of participants’ descriptions of their transitions to motherhood indicate four modal narratives that vary along two axes: the adoption of a motherhood identity, and the nature (or stability) of relational support available. By using subjective perceptions of motivation, stability, and feelings of competence, this study linked intrapersonal meaning-making with situational sources of support to describe various pathways through repeat adolescent childbearing in a way that both confirms and enriches extant literature. The implications of this study instruct home visiting programs and other interventions designed to forestall repeat pregnancies by elucidating pathways of reinforcement or increased risk inherent in some maternal trajectories. Following this logic, interventions directed at improving outcomes for young mothers and their children would do well to consider the interplay between internal meaning-making, relational support, and the transformative power of adopting the mother identity.
The Prospect of Compassionate Planning
Authors: Lyles Ward , White Stacey Swearingen , Lavelle Brooke D.
Published: October 2017

Compassion—the awareness of and motivation to increase care and reduce suffering—is an ethical orientation that encompasses emotions and thoughts. A growing body of evidence indicates that compassion can be intentionally cultivated, with potentially transformative impacts at the individual, organizational, and process levels. We examine the applicability of compassion for planning, particularly for transforming strongly held values and norms that contribute to seemingly intractable challenges. We identify four categories of planning work in which compassion cultivation can be undertaken and four directions for future research on the application of compassion in planning practice and education.
Some comments on the energy-absorbing effectiveness factor
Authors: Jones Norman
Published: October 2017

This paper discusses the energy-absorbing effectiveness factor which provides a ratio between the energy absorbed in a structural system with the total potentially available elastic and plastic strain energies in all the materials used in the construction. Experimental and numerical predictions for the factor are expressed in terms of the solidity ratio, or relative density, for various tubes and multicellular sections subjected to static and impact axial loadings. The factor illustrates the effectiveness of multicellular systems when compared to simple regular geometries. The effect of infilling is discussed along with several other factors. The energy-absorbing effectiveness factor is a useful dimensionless quantity to assist in the choice of efficient designs of structural systems which require an energy-absorbing capability.
Deformation behaviour of low carbon high Mn twinning-induced plasticity steel
Authors: Tewary NK , Ghosh SK , Chatterjee S
Published: October 2017

The present study deals with the deformation behaviour of low carbon and high manganese twinning-induced plasticity (TWIP) steel (Fe–21Mn–3Si–3Al–0.06C, wt%) through microstructural investigation. Low carbon with high manganese along with the addition of aluminium in TWIP steel results in lowering of specific weight with higher strain hardening due to the formation of mechanical twins during deformation. The full austenite phase is obtained after solution treatment and deformation twins appear and austenite grains become flattened during application of 10% to 50% cold deformation. The annealing twins are relatively coarser compared to the newly formed deformation twins. With the increasing amount of cold deformation, deformation twins and dislocation density are increased. Deformation twinning can be considered to be the dominant deformation mechanism during the course of cold rolling applied in the present study. The cold deformation results in the evolution of dislocation substructure, stacking faults, deformation twins and twin–dislocation interaction, which may be correlated with the lower stacking fault energy (∼24 mJ/m2) of the investigated steel. Excellent combination of strength and ductility has been obtained in the present TWIP steel with a small rolling reduction of 10% and 30%. With the increasing amount of cold deformation, tensile strength notably increases and maximum tensile strength is obtained at 50% cold-deformed sample along with the diminutive sacrifice of the ductility.
Numerical simulation of cell squeezing through a micropore by the immersed boundary method
Authors: Tan Jifu , Sohrabi Salman , He Ran , Liu Yaling
Published: October 2017

The deformability of cells has been used as a biomarker to detect circulating tumor cells from patient blood sample using microfluidic devices with microscale pores. Successful separations of circulating tumor cells from a blood sample require careful design of the micropore size and applied pressure. This paper presented a parametric study of cell squeezing through micropores with different size and pressure. Different membrane compressibility modulus was used to characterize the deformability of varying cancer cells. Nucleus effect was also considered. It shows that the cell translocation time through the micropore increases with cell membrane compressibility modulus and nucleus stiffness. Particularly, it increases exponentially as the micropore diameter or pressure decreases. The simulation results such as the cell squeezing shape and translocation time agree well with experimental observations. The simulation results suggest that special care should be taken in applying Laplace–Young equation to microfluidic design due to the nonuniform stress distribution and membrane bending resistance.
A Study on Exploring the Factors Influencing Celebrity Endorsement Credibility
Authors: Singh Ramendra Pratap , Banerjee Neelotpaul
Published: October 2017

This study tries to explore the factors contributing to the source credibility of celebrities as brand endorsers and, subsequently, develops a conceptually integrated scale for the same in Indian perspective. To conduct an empirical investigation, a survey is conducted consisting of 432 participants. In this study, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) followed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) has been con-ducted. Exploratory factor analysis resulted in three factors or dimensions. All the indicators are strongly loaded into their respective construct. The Cronbach’s alpha, composite factor reliability and variance extracted measure for validity checks are found to be satisfactory. All pairs of inter-construct correlation are found to be positive and significant. The issue of multicollinearity did not bear a serious threat to the data. Common method effect of Harmen’s one-factor post hoc test result indicates that multidimensional three-factor model fits the data well than the one-factor model. These results are also invariant across different demographic profiles, namely, gender, educational qualification and age.
Is it time for an offence of ‘dishonest algorithmic manipulation for electoral gain’?
Authors: Svantesson Dan Jerker B , van Caenegem William
Published: October 2017

Algorithms impact important aspects of our lives and of society. There are now strong concerns about algorithmic manipulation, used by domestic actors or foreign powers, in attempts to influence the political process, including the outcome of elections. There is no reason to think that Australia is immune or protected from such activities and we ought to carefully consider how to tackle such threats – threats that go to the very heart of a democratic society. In this article, we examine the potential introduction of a Commonwealth offence of ‘dishonest algorithmic manipulation for electoral gain’.
A Roman law solution to an eternal problem: A proposed new dignitary tort to remedy sexual harassment
Authors: Harris Bede
Published: October 2017

This article discusses the failure of both common and statute law to provide an adequate remedy for sexual harassment. The author adopts a comparative approach and examines the actio injuriarum of Roman law, which gives a remedy to plaintiffs for impairment of dignity caused by insult. He discusses how case law which has developed under Roman-Dutch law in South Africa has been used to provide a remedy for sexual harassment in a wide range of circumstances and suggests that tort law be developed along the same lines in Australia.
Psychiatric impairment ratings in children and adolescents
Authors: Kasinathan John , Flower Teresa , Singh Yolisha , Harden Scott
Published: October 2017

Objectives:

It is accepted practice in Australia and New Zealand for psychiatric impairment rating scales to be applied for persons claiming psychiatric injury. These scales were derived for adults, not children. There is less clarity as to whether and how these scales may be applied for children claiming psychiatric injury.

Methods:

We review Australian and New Zealand guidelines and methods for assessing permanent psychiatric impairment, as they apply to children and adolescents.

Results:

With significant caution, psychiatric impairment rating scales can be administered for children. Guidance and recommendations in this regard are provided. For some, the effects of psychiatric injury may not be stable, and permanent impairment assessment should be delayed until sufficient maturity occurs.

Conclusions:

Psychiatric impairment rating scales are widely applied for adults claiming psychiatric injury, however caution must be exercised when these scales are used in children.
Compensation Revisited
Authors: Roschk Holger , Gelbrich Katja
Published: October 2017

This research examines how to recompense customers, from a social resource theory perspective, which portrays financial compensation as the act of offering the resource “money” to customers during a service recovery attempt. This resource can differ in its particularism (is the money offered in a more or less personal way?) and concreteness (is the money offered in a more or less tangible way?), which are shown in two experiments to affect recovery outcomes. Specifically, personal compensation accompanied by a handwritten note from the service person (vs. impersonal: a typewritten note from the firm) fosters recovery satisfaction, mediated by justice perceptions, and reciprocal customer behavior (tipping, cross-buying), mediated by an obligation to reciprocate. Tangible compensation in the form of a banknote or banknote-like coupon (vs. intangible: a credit entry) also fosters reciprocal customer behavior via the obligation to reciprocate. In both studies, relationship strength amplifies the indirect effect of compensation’s particularism on recovery satisfaction. As a theoretical contribution, we show that the way the monetary resource is presented matters for service recovery. As a major managerial takeaway, this research presents personal (vs. impersonal) compensation as an impactful property of compensation: It increases recovery outcomes without additional monetary costs. Further, managers learn that handing over the money in a personal and tangible way can be a way to increase monetary returns to the firm in the form of tipping and cross-buying.
Positive evaluation and learning: Looking for ‘success’ in Netherlands road safety policy
Authors: van der Knaap Peter
Published: October 2017

Traditionally, many academics and practitioners seek the added value of evaluation primarily to highlight errors and shortcomings. As a consequence, evaluative inquiry risks becoming associated with failure and, therefore, best to be avoided. It seems that, in this respect, evaluators may be their own worst enemies: how much of the perpetual questions and disappointments that often still seem to plague our craft – perceived lack of relevance and, hence, attention and utilization – can be blamed on our natural focus on problems and failure? What could be gained from a positive evaluation approach, in which the evaluator actively seeks to improve policy programmes by focusing on success? How can it contribute to effective learning? What benefits and challenges would emerge? Taking the ‘Sustainable Road Safety’ programme of The Netherlands as an example, this article investigates potential answers to these questions. Starting from a definition of positive evaluation and learning theory, I will describe the opportunities of positive evaluation for more effective policy-oriented learning processes. From this example, the positive – but cautious – conclusion is that, in order to contribute to effective learning while seeking to optimize policy programmes, an evaluator could do well to opt for ‘looking for success’ first.
Formaldehyde diffusion within crystalline and amorphous cellulose at different temperatures and electric fields: A molecular dynamics study
Authors: Xu Bo , Chen Zhenqian
Published: October 2017

To provide a microcosmic theoretical support for the reduction of formaldehyde in building material, the diffusion process was investigated by molecular dynamics simulation. In addition, the diffusion model of formaldehyde molecules in crystalline and amorphous cellulose was built, and diffusion coefficients at different temperatures and electric fields were studied. The simulation temperature was from 293 to 393 K and electric field was from 0 to 400 kV/m. Diffusion coefficient increased with greater temperature and electric field both in crystalline and amorphous region. However, the diffusion coefficient in amorphous region could be ignored for it was two orders of magnitude lower than diffusion coefficient in crystalline region. The relationship between diffusion coefficient and temperature, and the relationship between diffusion coefficient and electric field were obtained by simulation, verified by the experiment. Temperature was shown to have a significant contribution to formaldehyde diffusion than electric field. Compared with experimental studies, the molecular dynamics simulation could only analyse the diffusion coefficient qualitatively because of the difference between micro-scale and macro-scale.
Lifestyle gambling, indebtedness and anxiety: A deviant leisure perspective
Authors: Raymen Thomas , Smith Oliver
Published: October 2017

While once subject to wide-ranging state control, gambling has successfully culturally embedded itself within the normalised and legitimised forms of leisure such as the night-time economy, sports fandom and online forums of socialisation. Consequently, this article argues that existing research which conceptualises gambling as separate from everyday life is largely obsolete in the contemporary context. We argue here that gambling has become an integral feature of the wider masculine weekend leisure experience, intimately connected to an infantilised consumer identity that is peculiar to late-capitalism. This article, drawing upon ongoing ethnographic research among what we term ‘lifestyle gamblers’, utilises a deviant leisure perspective to problematise the myriad harms that emerge from this relationship, situated within a broader critique of consumerism and global capitalism. While social gambling is defended fiercely by the industry, this article argues that an identity-based culture of sports-betting that attaches fragile social and cultural capital to the allure of the gambling win encourages the chasing of losses and impulsive betting. Underscored by a culture of readily available and high-interest credit, we explore how gamblers in a technologically accelerated culture develop a pathological relationship to money as it becomes desublimated and loses its symbolic value. Such processes, exacerbated by the promise of consumer culture, have the potential to cast these young adults into a paralysing reality of indebtedness that is fraught with depression, stress, domestic instability and destructive behaviours of consumption.